not2bright

Music - What's on Your iTunes?

2009-06-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from a friend's blog and tweaked it a bit.

Make a list of all the artist's (not album names) that start with ("A") on your ipod or any MP3 player. Make a short comment about the artist or one of their songs. Then, tag someone to do the next letter ("B") and hotlink their blogspot. Obviously, they then do the next letter...

I'm tagging Jessica because she is the most likely to make it take off! I'm also tagging my friends Thea, and Claire because I know their paths don't intersect... And, if any of you can think of a way to improve this, go for it!

Aaron Keyes- I have just a single of this artist, "Psalm 62". It's a really touching rendition.

Aaron Shust- Again, just a single, "My Savior, My God".

Academy of St. Martin in the Fields- A stirring collection of classical Christmas songs.

Adam's Road- this group of ex-Mormon missionaries have surprising talent and equally surprising stories about how they left Mormonism behind and embraced the freedom of Christ. My favorite? Stone Temples, but I couldn't find a good rendition to link to.

Doing My Part!

2009-06-06T09:05:00.001-07:00

~~~

If you read the lid of this egg carton, it touts the merits of recycling and gives some factoids about how many cartons the average American household consumes each year.

For those who are truly green-conscious, this egg company offers the option of mailing the carton back to the packaging company.

In an effort to be a globally responsible citizen, I thought I would comply. Being an online merchant, I have the means to easily package and weigh.

When I bring it to the Post Office, I will ask for a Return Receipt Requested to make certain it is received.

I feel so good now.

Oh, but I do wonder one thing. What will they do with the plastic mailing envelope I sent this in? Not toss it in the trash, I hope!

~~~

¿Qué Dijo Sólo Usted?

2009-05-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

(Phone rings on a government employee's desk)

Government Employee: "Department of *******, this is *****, how can I help you?"

Juan Q. Public: "¿Dice usted español?" (Do you speak Spanish?)

Government Employee: "No, I don't..."

Juan Q. Public: "¿Puede usted encontrar alguien que dice el español?" (Can you find someone who speaks Spanish?)

Government Employee: "No, YOU find someone who speaks English, and call back."

Cool Geography Games

2009-05-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

A friend of ours, Ron Tagliapietra, is an avid mountain hiker, published author, and a professor who has created several on-line geography games. Here is the email he sent us... give his games a try!

"Dear friends,

I now have 22 geography games on the website, http://purposegames.com . Links for games appear below. When you are done playing a game, you can hit the back button to rate the game and/or to post comments on its strengths or weaknesses. My games need players, so I hope you will check them out.

The most popular games on the site are identifying the 50 US states and identifying the countries on 4 continents. I made country games for 2 other continents.

N. America (23 countries, 4 territories):

Oceania (14 countries, 3 territories):

City games are also popular. I have contributed 5 of these.

Capitals of North American countries (23 capitals)

Capitals of Oceania (14 capitals)

Cities in California (18 with populations of 200,000)

Largest city in each state
(question format)

While nowhere near as popular, hikers may be interested in these 8 games.

22 Cascade Mountains

40 Southern Sixers

Highest waterfall in all 50 states

National Parks (all 58)

50 state highpoints

13 Canadian highpoints

5 county highpoints in HI

14 islands in Hawaii

Counties
Every state has a county game except NY, VA, and maybe NC, just search the site for the state. To find WV, you must search for "counties". I stumbled on MS (and maybe NC) and don't know how to find them. The CO and AK games are not up to date (missing newest counties). I made the 7 county games listed below (in order of popularity):

RI (5 cos.)
OR (36 cos.)
VT (14 cos.)
MA (23 cos.)
SC (46 cos.)
MN (87 cos.)
MT (56 cos.)

I am working on a game for the most powerful waterfall in each state. I will probably also eventually do county games for the 3 missing states.

Finally, there is a worldwide prominent mountains game (made by Wentu).

Please try out some of my games!
ron tag (my nickname on purposegames.com)"

Two Government Employees

2009-05-15T10:20:00.001-07:00

~~~

Every day, I go to the Post Office, at least once. I've gotten to know a lot of the employees. Some are great, others not. Consider these two:

Employee A:

He finishes weighing my pre-paid packages, preparing to scan them in and give me a receipt. "Uh-oh, this one is an ounce over! You need 11 cents more on the package."

I've already waited 10 minutes in line and am standing there with only my cell phone and my keys. I say, half joking, "Have you got 11 cents in your pocket? I'll give you a quarter next time I see you!"

He smiles, slaps an 11-cent stamp on the package, and waves me on.

Employee B:

She finishes weighing my pre-paid packages, preparing to scan them in and give me a receipt. "Uh-oh, this one is one/hundredth of an ounce over! You need 11 cents more on the package."

I've already waited 10 minutes in line and am standing there with only my cell phone and my keys. I say, "One/hundredth of an ounce over?!?! You're kidding me! You mean .01 of an OUNCE?!"

She plants her feet squarely on her little rubber mat, looks me in the eye and says, "11 cents please! Next time, don't lean so heavily on your pen when you write!"

"I don't have my wallet with me. Are you really going to insist on the next rate for one/hundredth of an ounce?" I ask incredulously.

She slides the package back to me, and just glowers. This is a day I will definitely be making two trips to the Post Office.

My "Life Song"

2009-05-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

Jessica posted song lyrics on her blog and suggested others do the same. Rebecca posted on her own blog and I decided to do the same.

This song has been meaningful to me for many years. In fact, in my funeral instructions, I have requested just two things: that I be buried, not cremated, and that this song be sung - joyfully!

Various verses have been especially relevant at different times. During this season of my life, I cling to Verse Two.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
- Refrain:
  It is well, with my soul,
  It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Just For Jessica

2009-05-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

8 Things I am Looking Forward to:

Seeing Rebecca, Josh, Caleb and Annabelle in about two months.
Dinner with Yvette tomorrow at Olive Garden.
The Haiti Dinner this Saturday.
The Living Room Concert (Jon Troast) at the Fletchers next week.
Summer, in general (love those long days).
Feeling better soon (new medication).
My next long talk with Debbie.
Sleep - always excited about that!

8 Things I Did Yesterday:

Drank coffee and talked with my man.
Went to church.
Went for a yummy frozen yogurt at a new place we found.
Finished listing the rest of the bicycle parts on ebay.
Talked with Rebecca on skype for her birthday.
Sniffled a little because I miss Caleb and Annabelle so much.
Watched "John Adams" (a documentary mini-series)
Took a hot relaxing bubble bath.

8 Things I Wish I Could Do:

Go to Singapore.
Go to Minnesota with my man.
Sell our house(s).
Move to the coast.
Thoroughly clean my house.
Figure out how to market Rick's Art Lamps successfully.
Get a pancreas transplant.
Memorize portions of the Bible (I try, but I ain't as sharp as I used to be...)

8 Shows I Enjoy on DVD:

The Office
JAG
NCIS
Law & Order (1990s)
Law & Order (CI)
Numb3rs
Lie to Me
John Adams

I love you Jess!

SHOCKING how much things have changed!

2009-03-19T13:36:00.001-07:00

This is an

educational book
-mainstream-
that was published
in 1914.
The mention of a creator
and the scriptural references
were apparently
quite normal
and generated
no debate.

Wow.
Things have changed.

I think it's really
important that our
young minds today
realize things have
not always been
so *anti-God*.

We have a rich heritage.
Let's do all we can
to preserve it.

In Honor of My Nap-Loving Niece!

2009-03-11T13:28:00.001-07:00

When I saw this car, I looked all around for you, then realized; if you were in California, you probably would have told me you were coming!

New Location, New Name

2009-02-10T23:12:00.001-08:00

Now that Hershey's has relocated their operations to Mexico,
they've adopted a new name and a new look.

You Get What You Pay For

2009-01-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

This was posted on a blog by my friend, Thea. Take the 45 seconds to head over there... (click on the title of this post)

This Home Could Use a Decorator!

2009-01-29T15:24:00.001-08:00

But, at least the occupant is pragmatic.

Or maybe, he likes the all-white look?

Where Will It End?

2009-01-22T08:26:00.001-08:00

Wow! How words morph! I received the following alert from my online banking site. Notice the latest technology term.

To help ensure your accounts remain safe and secure, G******** Bank wants to make you aware of a new type of Phishing scam that uses mobile phone text messages to solicit a response via the phone or Internet. This technique is called Smishing, short for SMS Phishing. SMS text messaging is the technology your mobile phone uses to send text messages. In a typical Smishing scam...

An Actual Conversation

2009-01-21T16:55:00.000-08:00

First Girl: So, yay! It's raining! That means we'll have powder for snowboarding this weekend! I can't wait to go. Only, I'm feeling kind of conflicted. I was supposed to help my girlfriend move this weekend, but- HELLO!- powder vs. moving?! I mean, what would YOU do?

Second Girl: Well, how close of a friend is she?

First Girl: Pretty close. That's why I'm conflicted. Do you think she'll understand?

Second Girl: Have you already told her you'd help her move? Was she counting on you?

First Girl: Well, yeah, this was planned a month ago, but then I called her this morning and told her there's going to be POWDER! Hello! I mean, she can always get someone else to help her move, you know? But, still, why do I feel so conflicted? Ahh-hhhh! I hope I didn't p*ss her off!

Me: Excuse me, I couldn't help overhearing. There'll always be snow, but a good friend... maybe you should help your friend and snowboard another time?

First Girl: DUH! Global warming! There WON'T always be snow. (rolls eyes)... So, yeah, she'll just have to understand.

They're Here!

2008-12-22T08:26:00.000-08:00

Rebecca and her little family got in Sunday about 10 PM to Josh's parents. What a joy to meet Annabelle and reacquaint with Caleb! Bec and Josh said the babies traveled well, although Dad and Mom didn't get much sleep. Caleb was shy for about, oh, 17 seconds, then he seemed to recoognize almost everyone. Thank goodness for Skype!

Uncle Dan holding his first niece.

Elizabeth with her brand-new husband, Paul.

"Auntie Bet" (Aunt Yvette)

Proud Grandma Lucy, holding a happy Annabelle.

Yvette brought El Pollo Loco over for Rebecca and Josh.
Rebecca wasted no time indulging!

Caleb ate some cheese and then Mommy said he could have one of Gram's cookies!
He enjoyed every bite, even sharing some with his baby sister by way of a kiss...

I know the time will go speeding by, but we will enjoy
EVERY MINUTE
we spend with our loved ones...

"Home for the Holidays!"

That has a whole new meaning now.

Do ANYone really use these?

2008-12-21T19:55:00.001-08:00

When you buy a good quality sweater, blouse or pair of pants, they always give you an extra button in case you lose one. I've NEVER used one of these.

What are you supposed to do with them? Label them? File them?

I have a jar of them in the laundry room. They're going into the trash can tonight.

Balance!

2008-12-15T20:12:00.000-08:00

While it is fun to have a laugh (see Ugly Christmas Sweater post), and be merry, it is also good to remember those who aren't even CLOSE to being as fortunate as we are. Here is a link to our friend's blog. He and his fiance are doing amazing things with the poorest of the poor in Haiti.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest

2008-12-15T18:20:00.001-08:00

I DARE you to find one uglier!

Jessica is hosting a contest... the more the MERRIER!

Bring 'em on.

(I was going to photoshop my face into the picture, but I have my limits.)

Comfort Foods

2008-11-24T10:54:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is NOT the time to be counting calories unless you have taken "higher math"! Potatoes, gravy, yams, dressing, rolls, corn, cranberries, pies... all those yummy foods teeming with carbs. Traditional meals are sometimes called Comfort Foods. I don't know why they are called that; I am always left with an uncomfortably full tummy after Thanksgiving!

Here is a new recipe for an old Comfort Food. We'd never had it until last night at a church dinner, but we loved it! It's an old Betty Crocker classic.

"Scalloped Corn" - 4 servings

1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen whole kernel corn; cooked and drained (or 16 oz. can whole kernel corn; drained)
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green and red pepper
2 tbsp. butter or margarine
2 tbsp. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. dry mustard
Dash pepper
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 egg; slightly beaten
1/3 cup cracker crumbs
1 tbsp. butter or margarine; melted

Heat oven to 350* Cook and stir onion and green pepper in 2 tbsp. butter until onion is tender. Remove from heat; stir in flour and seasonings. Cook over low heat, stirring until mixture is bubbly. Remove from heat; gradually stir in milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly; boil and stir 1 minute. Stir in sour cream, corn and egg; pour into ungreased 1-quart casserole.

Combine cracker crumbs and the 1 tbsp. melted butter; sprinkle evenly over corn mixture. Bake uncovered 30-35 minutes.

"Betty Crocker's Cookbook" - 1974

Another Prayer for Obama

2008-11-14T15:56:00.000-08:00

Although I am not Roman Catholic (anymore), I am greatly concerned when a man of the cloth is sanctioned by his superiors for instructing his flock to live by godly principles.

And, I must heartily add my own "AMEN" to his prayer (above).

Regarding the New President

2008-11-07T14:23:00.000-08:00

A Prayer for the New President

and
A Gracious Commentary

Annabelle

2008-11-06T22:59:00.000-08:00

Ain't she sweet?
Counting the days until we meet!

For Rebecca!

2008-11-05T17:28:00.001-08:00

I don't know anyone who loves brownies more than Rebecca does. Personally, I like the centers of the brownies, with no crust, but for those that like the crunchy edges, here's a recommend!

I must also tip my chef cap to "Mrs. Dean", a friend whose brownies are renowned around the world thanks to Yvette's delivery of a sampling when she went to Singapore in October.

I can't wait to bake some brownies for Rebecca at Christmas time. Somehow, I think Caleb will appreciate that as well.

Which Way Will the Cookie Crumble?

2008-10-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

Our local (favorite) bakery is offering two new decorated cookies through Tuesday. Do you want to guess which sell more often? Personally, I think one should have been lemon and the other full of nuts. ;-)

Haiti Charity Jewelry Auction

2008-10-25T19:46:00.000-07:00

Recently our good friend Yvette visited Josh and Rebecca in Singapore. While there, they all went to Bali for a long weekend. Yvette brought back some fabulous hand-made jewelry. We have made these available on auction on our ebay store.

ALL proceeds from these pieces will be given to the HAITI CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL. Our young friend Dustin is helping there full-time and permanently. The people are the poorest of the poor, and have recently been further devastated by Hurricane Ike. They have been cut off from food and water, and are suffering malnutrition and disease as a result.

We invite you to look at these great pieces of jewelry and consider bidding on them. They would make lovely gifts, or personal items. We would consider it gracious if you would link to this blogspot!

Photo by Dustin V., full-time aid worker in Haiti

BFF

2008-10-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

Debbie was in town for one day only, but it was wonderful to spend seven hours with my BFF. (I didn't know what that meant until last week...it's Best Friends Forever)

I'll always be grateful to my B.Bro (that's Bigger Brother to me) for giving me not only a great sister-in-law, but a BFF.

Thanks Dave!

A Princess' Logic

2008-10-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, while working in San Anslemo, Shay and Charity stopped by with the kids. Samantha, aged just-turned-four, asked if we had brought our dog with us. I told her we hadn't, and that she would have to come and visit Olive.

She opened her sweet eyes wide and punctuated her words with her little hands waving,
"Gram, I really, REALLY, REALLY want to see your dog,
because I really, REALLY, REALLY don't have a dog."

Can't argue with that.

Happy Birthday Caleb!

2008-10-07T21:58:00.001-07:00

I can 't believe you are already TWO YEARS OLD! And what a fine young boy you are.

Thanks for telling me your first joke tonight on Skype. Let me see if I can retell it right...

"Row, row, row your boat.. to the BUS stop!" (followed by the cutest giggle)

I love you SO much!

If My Faith is Fraudulent

2008-09-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am taking a stand on personal things in my life right now that are very costly.

If my Lord Jesus Christ is just an historical figure and his dried bones heaped in a long-lost tomb somewhere in Israel, if the Scriptures that I have believed for 34 years are merely man's musings, if the cries of my heart are not heard from above, I am making painful sacrifices for a Lie.

Anyone who thinks being a Christian is like leaning on a crutch is mistaken. It is more like diving off a high cliff and trusting that you will be grasped before you hit the canyon bottom.

I am falling, once again, into His Everlasting Arms.

A Picture is Worth a 1,000 Words!

2008-09-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

The Source of Traffic Laws

2008-09-16T10:48:00.001-07:00

Have you ever grumbled while sitting at a l-o-n-g red light, watching a car two blocks down approach, going the other direction, and sail right through? ("Not fair!") ...I've done my share of complaining, and have thought about the reasoning behind traffic laws many times while waiting. I recently read the following short article in a favorite magazine of mine, Answers, and took the liberty of publishing it here. It succinctly presents the same conclusion I've come to...

It is impossible to pass a law that is free from moral implications. The real question is not whether man can legislate morality, but which system of morality will be legislated. All laws are either explicitly moral or procedures that uphold a moral concept. Even laws requiring traffic lights impose "morality". The purpose of traffic lights is to stop people from having accidents, thus protecting property and preserving life.

Even simple laws, like traffic lights, presuppose that:

a) order is good and chaos bad
b) property rights should be honored, and
c) life should be preserved

Each of these principles is rooted in the Genesis (Biblical) account of origins:

a) God the creator, who declared His work "very good" (Genesis 1:31), is not the author of confusion (I Corinthians 14:33)
b) He commanded man to bring order into creation by taking dominion over the earth, thus laying the foundation for property rights (Genesis 1:28), and
c) He established the sanctity of life as the first principle of lawful government (Genesis 9:5-6)

These are the unspoken moral assumptions behind a traffic light.

Name That Female Vocalist/Musician!

2008-09-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Listen and then, guess.

Don't look at the other guesses in the comments until you are ready to make yours!

I'll confirm or deny in a while....

She's the Little Sister... in case you were wondering.

2008-09-11T23:12:00.001-07:00

VACATION!

2008-09-04T09:15:00.001-07:00

Since we've not had the opportunity for a vacation in a while, I've been thinking of what sort of vacation I'd like if we could plan one.

I'm interested in your reflections on the subject!

One of the best I remember was in 1997. The three kids and I had only ONE DAY to spare, and we headed to the ocean. We visited two different beaches, and had dinner at a surfer joint. Ask any of the kids; we all agreed that one day *miraculously* stretched to feel like a week. We thoroughly enjoyed each other, the sparkling ocean and the weather- and came home so refreshed!

All for the cost of a tank of gas
(not too much $$$ in 1997) and a pizza dinner.

It's a Girl! 6 lbs, 15 ozs. ANNABELLE VICTORIA!

2008-08-27T01:18:00.000-07:00

Born about 12:30 AM PST (3:30 PM Singapore) August 27. She's here and she's perfect!

WELCOME, PRECIOUS GRANDDAUGHTER.

Compassion

2008-08-25T19:15:00.000-07:00

A fellow PowerSeller on eBay lost her two grandbabies in a tragic accident.

I've set up a fund to help with burial expenses. You don't have to be an ebayer to contribute. Here is the link.

Thank you for your kindness.

Thriller!

2008-08-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

My mom asked to cook my favorite meal for my birthday, and I asked for "Thriller". It is a shortcut version of lasagna, made with large shells instead of long lasagna pasta, and dispensing with the ricotta cheese. Delicious, nonetheless! She adds Italian hot sausage, mozarella and lots of garlic.

The mystery is how she named it "Thriller". Hopefully she'll clear that up in a comment...

Here we are, ready to dish it up. Thanks, Mom!

P.S. Dig your new eyeglasses.

My Funny Hunny

2008-08-21T14:30:00.001-07:00

Now that we're working 40-50 hours a week selling on ebay and at our antique co-op in Marin, I haven't done a lot of cooking or dishes. Rick has never complained; in fact he frequently runs out for tacos, sandwiches or salad while I take a nap! He does a good job of digging socks out of the laundry basket and overlooking dusty blinds and unswept floors. And, he's picked up a whole lot of new household chores- voluntarily. (Yeah, he's quite a guy!)

Since I've had my new MacBook Pro, I've been enjoying working on the laptop online in the kitchen where it is light and open. It gets me out of the crowded office in the back of the house.

Today, I was working at the kitchen table, and Rick walked by and remarked, "Sweetie, if anyone asks, tell them you've been spending lots of time in the kitchen! I won't tell them what you're doing!"

You MIGHT Be a Powerseller on Ebay if...

2008-08-12T13:52:00.001-07:00

You order shipping bubblewrap for your ebay store...and then you can't fit it in through the door, and your kitchen looks like the local Post Office.

C'mon. Admit It.

2008-08-10T22:56:00.000-07:00

This
is
the
cutest
little
boy
in
the
~~city~~
~~state~~
~~country~~
~~world~~
universe.

<<< TAKE MY POLL!!

2008-08-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Putting my money where my mouth is. I sent these to Rebecca for the new baby, with 21 days left until her due date!

Sunset

2008-08-05T22:47:00.000-07:00

Out for a walk this evening, we saw this gorgeous sunset. Thank goodness for a camera phone!

New Digs!

2008-08-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

We labored all day yesterday at our co-op, Antiques Legacy of San Anslemo*. The 10,000 sq. ft. store has about 40 dealers, each with their own piece of "real estate" to display their offerings. The natural walking pattern is in a counter-clockwise path inside the building.

We started out there last Fall with a tiny counter top near the front of the store to display Rick's Art Lamps, then moved to a cramped space of our own. It was tucked away on the end of the second half of the store layout, where most people have become eye-wearied with all the fabulous treasures by the time they arrive! It was a small space, chock-full of things we've added for sale, as well as Art Lamps. Nevertheless, we've done pretty well, always exceeding our monthly rent.

Recently, a vendor decided to leave the co-op, making his cherry spot available -and the store owner offered it to us. We jumped at the chance!

Location, Location, Location! they say in real estate. This spot is on the first half of the traffic pattern, right where you make the turn to go to the back portion and then second half. As you turn, your eye naturally notices our new booth.

Here are some photos of the new location. We have some tweaking to do, having run out of time yesterday. As you might notice, we have no neighbors, just the dividing wall on one side, the back wall on another, and two open sides. Across from us (on the right, but unseen) is a vendor who does quite well in her spot. We are looking forward to developing a good working relationship with her.

We are very excited about the new prospects! We never guessed we'd be selling in an antiques mecca, as San Anselmo has been called. We're loving it.

*if you visit Antiques Legacy's website and our own, you might notice they look similar. That's because the store owner hired me to do a website for him! And I figured, "Why re-invent the wheel?"

Summer Evening

2008-07-12T22:45:00.001-07:00

This is a photo of a night-blooming cactus by our pool with a 3/4 moon in the the sky.

By morning, the blooms will die and fall to the deck.

Wringer Washers & Other Outmoded Ideas

2008-07-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

In memory of Tony Snow, who died at age 53 today, here is a quote from an essay he wrote in 2005.

"If you want to understand how little sense our system of government makes, walk down the cereal aisle at your local grocery store. Count how many brands you can buy. Then ask yourself: If I have this many options in cereal, why don't I have any options when it comes to really important stuff that every single American needs — health care and retirement security? Why must we deal with Ponzi-scheme remedies that clean out our wallets without giving us our money's worth?

"Do we really believe our interests are best served by programs designed when Americans were driving Model A automobiles, where most washing machines had wringers, where refrigerators were scarce, interstates were nonexistent and air-conditioning a gewgaw reserved for futuristic exhibits at the World's Fair? "

Your Tax Dollars at Work!

2008-06-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

Ten days ago, one of our neighborhood feral cats died somehow, and was lying in the gutter of the unoccupied house next door. We called Animal Control, which is a division of our local police department. A recording informed us that we were to leave the address of the dead animal, and that an Animal Control Officer would be out ASAP to make the removal. The recording also informed us that pickups would only be made on public property, not private. Of course, this was not a problem; the poor cat was in the public street.

Two days later, the animal was still lying there. We considered burying it ourselves, but there is a local law prohibiting that. I suggested bagging it and putting it in the garbage. Again, no- local ordinance. We made another phone call and again got the recording.

The odor increased.

On the fifth day, we made another call. Same recording.

The stench increased.

Seventh day. Another phone call. Now the neighborhood kids were surreptitiously poking sticks at it. Summer science lab, I guess.

The smell was now abominable in the heat and humidity.

Eighth day. The street sweeper came by about 5 AM. A few hours later, we noticed the cat was gone.

But the fetor remained. The cat had been flicked up into the bushes of the empty house.

Today we phoned the City Manager. We suggested they let the police department know that a whole week had gone by with no service, and that we'd be happy to deliver the carcass to the station if it would help.

Thirty minutes later, the Animal Control wagon showed up. Seeing no cat in the gutter, she cruised on by. I flagged her down, and she flipped the vehicle around.

We pointed out the cat that was now up in the bushes. She coolly cited the city code and said she was not able to remove it because it was on private property.

We reminded her that it was on city property for a week, and that her unit had failed to come in a timely manner.

Sighing deeply, she apologized and remained steadfast that it was beyond her scope. "Sorry, it's on private property!" We suggested she phone her supervisor. By now, Rick was so frustrated he went into the house, I assumed to maintain his cool.

Next thing I knew, while the Animal Control Officer was on the radio with her Sgt., Rick came strolling out of our garage with a shovel. He calmly tossed the poor carcass back into the street, pointed and smiled.

She picked it up and hauled it away. Thank you, Dutiful Public Servant.

Just Because I Love Him.

2008-06-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

Click Here.

How Random is THIS?!

2008-06-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

(Phoenix airport at sunset)

Debbie and son Charlie, from Minnesota, were due to fly into California tonight to help my niece Jessica pack and move.

My son Dan (Debbie's nephew) was in Dallas for several days at a conference, and was returning home to California tonight.

Dan had to change planes in Phoenix. He was one of the last ones on the airplane. When he found his seat, he noticed someone who looked familiar.

Debbie and Charlie were in the SAME ROW.

Neither one knew the other was even flying! Randomly, they ended up on the same flight, in the same row. All Dan had to do was switch aisle seats with the guy sitting next to Debbie.

Wow. What are the odds of that?!

(Debbie and Dan upon landing in Sacramento.)

Thought of the Word...

2008-06-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Barb; thanks for dropping in! Feel free to leave a comment. ;-)

It Pays to Purchase AppleCare!

2008-06-05T14:45:00.001-07:00

We purchased a 20" iMac in September of 2006 (seen in previous post). Fortunately, I purchased AppleCare soon after.

Somehow, I got a lemon. (There aren't many of them in Apple World.)

I won't bore you with the whole history, but after tolerating the annoying glitches for well over a year, it took a sudden turn for the worst in March. It became apparent it was about to become lemon-ADE*!

After jumping through a few easy hoops, Apple sent me a brand-new UPGRADED iMac today.

I can't wait to plug it in and take it for a spin.

*ADE= a dead electronic

God Provides!

2008-06-04T21:07:00.001-07:00

Little by little, our ebay business has grown. Currently we are nicely supplementing Rick's pension, and are nearly at Level Two as Power Sellers! We're starting to realize we have a "real" business going.

I've been needing a new computer desk for some time now. I kinda knew what I wanted, but just haven't even had time to go looking for one. Besides! As official Garage Salers, we decided we'd just keep our eyes open for one when we are out "shopping" for resale products.

Yesterday, our neighbor asked for our help. She is newly moved back into the area from San Jose, and needed a strong man (that would be MY guy!) to unpack her PODS. Beth said that, after taking a few personal things out, the rest would be going to Salvation Army. She said we were welcome to take anything we thought we could use or sell.

The long and the short of it... not only did she have a computer desk that was exactly what I was looking for, but there were also two very nice metal file cabinets -complete with hundreds of hanging file folders- (tall black one at the left, half size one at the right), and an INDUSTRIAL paper shredder! We spent the day rearranging our home office, and sprucing things up. Rick took this photo of his very delighted business partner when I first sat down for a test drive at my new desk! We're ready for our business to really soar now.

Sidebar: we also placed a VERY NICE almost-new king-size Serta mattress set with a needy couple. They were all smiles, too!

Thank you Beth, and thank You God!

SPRING FANCY GONE MODERN!

2008-05-29T13:08:00.001-07:00

In the spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.

Lord Tennyson Alfred (1809–1892)

Thank goodness for camera phones.

I was at a local discount store today (I'm not admitting which one in case Jessica or my bro reads this). In the greeting card aisle, I saw three guys. At first I couldn't figure out what they were doing. Then, it dawned on me and I could hardly keep from laughing out loud!

They had chosen a mushy "thinking of you" romantic card, and were TEXT MESSAGING the poem on it to one of their girlfriends! In typical guy slang, they were discussing how she would react, and wondering whether she'd be able to tell he didn't actually make it up himself.

I angled around, and snapped the photo, hoping they wouldn't hear the "click" and grab my phone.

Success!!

Congratulations, Jessica!

2008-05-23T21:37:00.000-07:00

My niece, Jessica, is graduating in the morning from CSU-Sac. We're so very proud of her! Tonight we celebrated with a few family members and friends at Red Robin in Turlock.

I know she will go far. In fact, too far. She's moving to Minnesota after graduation!

CONGRATULATIONS, Jess! WOO-HOO! You did it!

(above) Dan, Jessica, Yvette and Jordan. My parents were there, too.

(above) The Band. Well, they should start a band. They already have their first album cover.

Skype Birthday Party for Rebecca!

2008-05-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

What do you do when your daughter turns 30
but she's 9,000 miles away in Singapore?

Throw a Skype Party, of course!

(Yes, that's the Taj Mahal, in India. Josh took her there for her birthday, and made her wear the goofy tee-shirt and mask. As you may notice, she's carrying her next child, due in August.)

First thing was making sure she got her favorite cake! For as long as I can remember, Rebecca asked for cakes with strawberries on her birthday. I got online and found a place in Singapore, 7th Manna, that delivers fresh strawberry cakes at a reasonable price! They were so easy to work with.

Next, we invited about 30 local people to come (and Jessica from Roseville who is in frequent contact with Rebecca). I prearranged with Josh to have Rebecca home and ready on Saturday morning, when it would be Friday evening for us. The time zone difference is 15 hours, so we set it for 6 PM here.

A couple of weeks ahead of time, we mailed a box full of small gifts, paper party goods, and a couple of decorations to Josh at the school where he teaches. He did a great job of hiding it from Rebecca. The day before the party, the cake was delivered to Josh, also at school, and he took a taxi home to keep it fresh (it gets pretty hot in Singapore, and he usually rides public transportation).

We had a sketchy start; we lost internet connection for two hours before the party started. I was pretty stressed knowing the party couldn't happen without a connection. Dan was on the phone with a tech at our provider's, then Dustin came and helped complete the fix. We came back online FIVE MINUTES before the start of the party! Soon, we had a room full of well-wishers.

Yvette and I had told Rebecca we would be calling. Ever since they moved over there, we talk frequently by Skype. It's a FREE internet video calling service, requiring a webcam. For the party, we set up Dan's Mac laptop in my kitchen. We had it turned so that she could just see Yvette and I. Everyone else was waiting a few feet away, quietly, in the living room.

We chatted a few moments, then told Rebecca that her Grandma and Grandpa had come in and wanted to say hi. As we turned the laptop, everyone started singing "Happy Birthday". I think Rebecca was TRULY surprised! I hope she'll comment about it here...

One by one, everyone from the party came up to the monitor to speak a few minutes with her. She was online for about two hours!

Dan (above) explaining to Rebecca that he was bummed when she turned 16 before him, but now...

Then, it was time for Cake! Josh had gone to get the cake from their refrigerator (he'd told Rebecca that she couldn't look in the fridge that morning), and I was off-screen lighting the one we had here. Simultaneously, she had cake coming from behind and on-screen. Once again we sang, and she blew out her candles in Singapore. Rebecca D. blew out the candles here!

As Rebecca continued to speak with all her guests, Yvette, two of the D. girls and I handed out cake here. Then, she opened her gifts.

All in all, it was the next-best thing to being there! I only wish I could have given her a big ole birthday hug and kiss. I can't believe it's been thirty years since that wondrous day when my life was blessed with this beautiful daughter.

Happy Birthday, Rebecca!

*for some reason, the photos are pretty blurry.

Pair-a-Docks

2008-05-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered why a person who touts Tolerance can be so Intolerant of those he deems Intolerant?

Good News!

2008-04-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

My sister got a reprieve! We are so thankful. She will have to keep a lifelong vigilance, but we are optimistic that it will be a long vigilance!

How I am Feeling

2008-04-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

In the The Silver Chair, a Chronicle of Narnia book by C.S. Lewis, there is a character named Puddleglum. His personality is much like mine. A pessimist. Always expecting the worst. An Eeyore.

Nevertheless, when the chips are really down, he knows where to look. Up.

In one significant scene, the characters -Puddleglum, Jill and Scrubb- have left the wonderful land of Narnia to search for its abducted prince, and are now captive in a distant dark Underworld. They have found the prince, but have hit an obstacle: the wicked Witch who kidnapped him. She is casting a spell, and Puddleglum's companions are quickly falling under her bewitching. Puddleglum is resisting with all his might. I'll quote the story from this point, beginning with the words of Jill, one of the good companions...

"I suppose that other world (Narnia) must be all a dream."

"Yes. It is all a dream," said the Witch, always thrumming on her magic fiddle.

"Yes, all a dream," said Jill.

"There never was such a world," said the Witch.

"No," said Jill and Scrubb, "never was such a world."

"There never was any world but mine," said the Witch.

"There never was any world but yours," said they.

Puddleglum was fighting hard. "I don't rightly know what you all mean by a world," he said, talking like a man who hasn't enough air. "But you can play that fiddle till your fingers drop off, and you still won't make me forget Narnia; and the whole Overworld, too. We'll never see it again, I shouldn't wonder. You may have blotted it out and turned it dark like this, for all I know. Nothing more likely.

"But I know I was there once. I've seen the sky full of stars. I've seen the sun coming up out of the sea of a morning and sinking behind the mountains at night. And I've seen him up in the midday sky when I couldn't see him for his brightness."

Lately, my world has seemed dark. But, I have seen the Sun. And I shall never forget the Son in His brightness...

Please Pray

2008-04-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

Someone very dear
to me was diagnosed
with lymphoma today.

We don't have any
details yet, and I'd
rather not say just
now who it is.

But, God knows,
and I'd like to ask
you to join me in
praying for her
complete recovery,
and the strength to
fight this head on.

Thank you.

(L.- if you're reading this: I love you.)

Movie Recommendation

2008-04-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

Do you have an open mind? Did you see "An Inconvenient Truth?", "Fahrenheit 9/11", or "Bowling for Columbine?" ...Add this one to your list. (If nothing else, you'll enjoy the trailer.)

If you have heard of the new documentary Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed, opening April 18, chances are you have heard all kinds of distortions and myths about it. So let's set the record straight about some of the most common myths.

Myth #1: Darwinists interviewed for this film were tricked into participating.
Not so. Each scientist interviewed for Expelled, on both sides of the evolution debate, knew who would do the interview and what it was for. Each of them signed a release, allowing the producers to use the footage of their interviews.

Myth #2: The film is anti-science.

Wrong again. Many distinguished scientists were interviewed for this film and given the chance to express their views. Just like their Darwinist counterparts, the advocates of intelligent design and their supporters who are interviewed are there to talk about science, not to dismiss it. These are people like Cambridge physicist John Polkinghorne; Oxford mathematician and philosopher John Lennox; journalist Pamela Winnick, who has received hate mail for covering the issue; and biologist Caroline Crocker, who was fired from George Mason University for discussing intelligent design in the classroom. Some of them are religious believers; some are not. But what they share is a commitment to science and the unfettered pursuit of truth. Expelled is not anti-science; it is anti-censorship.

Myth #3: Ben Stein, the actor and writer who hosts the movie, has lost his mind.

Bringing up this very issue in a conference call, Stein quipped that he probably has, "but it was a long time ago . . . probably sometime around 1958." Well, I have known Stein well for years, and he is as bright as a button and anything but out of his mind. On a serious note, Stein and his film's producers explained that the mud that people are flinging at him is just one small example of what happens to people who question Darwinian orthodoxy. The original idea for Expelled, said co-producer and software engineer Walt Ruloff, came to him when he was working on a project with a group of biotechnologists and learned "that there was a whole series of questions that could not be asked."

The prevailing ideology among many scientists—it turned out—he concluded, was keep your mouth shut, take the research money, and publish only the data that fits with "the party line." The issue that concerns Ruloff and the others behind Expelled is whether the scientific establishment in this country is going to allow genuine "freedom of inquiry," or simply shut up—and slander—those who do not toe the line.

Given all this, Ben Stein states, "As long as the cause is right, I'm happy to be in an uphill struggle."

Myth #4: Popular author and atheist, Richard Dawkins tells Ben Stein in this film that there could have been a designer of life on earth, but it would have had to have been "a higher intelligence" that had itself evolved "to a very high level . . . and seeded some form of life on this planet."

Well, actually . . . that one is not a myth. He really did say it—striking admission, though it is.

So, I urge you to go see Expelled when it opens at a theater near you. Believe me, in this case the truth really is stranger—and more compelling—than any fiction the film's detractors could possibly dream up. (from Breakpoint, 4/11/08)

New Post

2008-04-04T18:44:00.000-07:00

Hey 3-peas-in-a-pod (Lori)... here is the new post you asked for!

I don't have any fresh ideas right now, being impaired by a low blood sugar. Rick is taking me out to dinner in a few minutes. For now, scroll down to the very bottom of this page, and see our GrandBaby Ticker!

More Later!

;-)

Do You Know Someone with this Condition?

2008-03-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

Time for a chuckle... Dilbert does it again!

It's My City... Love It or Leave It!

2008-03-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

Here we go again.

Not that I disagree, but where you live is ALSO about friends and family. However, if it weren't for friends and family, we'd be long gone!

Flying Our Flag: Upside Down or Right Side Up?

2008-03-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

Guess which one is the anti-war protester? Read this and you might be surprised!

No matter which side of the aisle you sit on, you'll be proud of these men for the way they resolved this.

I hope this story is picked up nationally for its 15 minutes of fame in the limelight. There is a lot to learn from this incident.

We Three

2008-03-18T20:04:00.001-07:00

(us at the rest area, 3-18-08)

What a day we've had!

We woke up this morning and decided we needed a day off work. Since Rick took an early retirement two years ago, we've had our noses to the grindstone, building our Offbeat business. Things haven't gone as planned exactly (in more ways than finances; children moving away, health, etc.) and I've been really blue lately. We thought a drive to the mountains to immerse ourselves in Spring and all the fresh green hills and colorful wildflowers would be comforting.

Right away, I sensed the Lord in our conversation. We talked easily of our dreams, our disappointments, our vision for our future, and how we trust the Lord to guide us. Can I just say that I am married to an amazing man?! I am so blessed to be partnered with this guy. He provides such a balance for me. I have a natural tendency to pessimism (don't look so surprised-HA!) and melancholy. The further we drove, the more optimistic I felt about things. I felt hopeful with a renewed sense of Christ's love for me.

About 40 miles up, we passed over a river bridge and noticed a little deserted rest area. Deciding to stop for a few moments, we turned off the road and doubled back to it. As we pulled into the parking lot, we saw a car tucked back out of sight from the road. It looked familiar.

(Bryan, Ces, Mia and soon-to-be-born Baby)

Before I knew it, I was jumping out of the car and running toward some of our very best young friends, Bryan and Ces! What a random meeting! A Tuesday morning, far from home, on a work day. Coincidence? I think not...

We had such a pleasant interlude with them and their tiny daughter, talking about our lives and catching up. (They have filled some gaps for us since Bec and Josh have moved, and Shay and Charity live a few hours off.) This dear family was out there with their canoe, fishing, also enjoying the day, and reveling in their Creator.

As we drove away, Rick and I looked at each other and just smiled. It was obvious that our Silent Passenger had spoken; we were driving, but He was directing. We can count on Him to do that with us. Always.

And that is very comforting.

(continued...next post down)

~~

Further Up the Road...

2008-03-18T19:50:00.000-07:00

(click on the picture to enlarge it)

We stopped at a country cemetery. It's really interesting to read all the headstones, and to realize that someday, all any one on earth may know of you might be what's written there.

When we walked back to our car, I caught a reflection of the cemetery in our back window, alongside a sticker, "Don't waste your life". That struck me as very symbolic.

I took a quick digital snapshot. When I got home, it looked really strange to me! The cemetery was completely whitewashed, due to the sunlight and the contrast between the black car and the bright background. I'm not trying to be overly artsy, but I did a one-step tweak (poster edges) in photoshop, and I thought this turned out kinda interesting.

Tag- You're It!

2008-03-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Jessica, I think. (Okay, I'm a little late, but I've been preoccupied.) The deal is to ask a "would you rather..." question and then tag five more people. I'm not tagging anyone, but here's my question.

It's summer.

Would you rather (body or board) surf in the cold Pacific Ocean with big waves

-or-

in the warm Atlantic Ocean with small waves?

Happy Birthday, littlest C!

2008-03-03T20:48:00.001-08:00

We celebrated our grandson's birthday yesterday at his home in Marin. Little C. is one year old! He's a delightful, happy boy. His big sister, S., had a lot of fun orchestrating the candle blow-out, and overseeing the gift opening. When he went to bed early, she took his toys for a trial-run and approved of them all. ;-)

You know you've lost your head to technology when...

2008-02-29T21:33:00.000-08:00

...you wake up in the morning and check the weather on your Blackberry while still in bed, instead of looking out the window. Don't ask me how I know this.

Go ahead, comment. You can be anonymous!

Visit Elizabeth!

2008-02-26T12:35:00.001-08:00

Elizabeth has a new blogspot to keep everyone caught up on her life at college. She asked me to pass the word on...

Taco Feast!

2008-02-25T23:26:00.000-08:00

We had some young friends in this evening for a Taco Feast! C----- brought a chile relleno casserole, S---- brought the guacamole, and Y----- brought Coca Cola and Jaritos in the glass bottles. I fried 25 terribly-unhealthy-but-delicious-tacos; not one was left.

We girls (two are expecting) ate at the kitchen table, and the guys balanced plates on their laps in the living room.

It was a wonderful evening! We also celebrated C------'s birthday. I love the freshness of these friends. I'd like to make it a monthly event...

(The first two pix are taken with my camera phone; not the best)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T16:36:00.001-08:00

Flowers and a mushy card from my best friend and awesome husband, Rick.

Selling a Bill of Goods to the Poorest of the Poor

2008-02-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

A short 2.5 minute video from John Piper.

+

He Answers To No One

2008-01-29T18:46:00.000-08:00

A very dear family lost their young husband and father today. In these situations, one always asks, "Why?"

This morning, I was reading a book, "The Horse and His Boy" by C.S. Lewis. To synopsize the portion I am referring to here, Shasta and his riding companion, Aravis, are on a desperate journey to ride to Narnia to warn of an impending attack by the Calormenes. At one point, Aravis is stalked and wounded by an unseen animal, apparently a lion. She is thus unable to continue the expedition and is waylaid with a kindly dwarf to care for her.

Shasta continues on at a mad pace and is alone the next night in an unfamiliar mountain pass, hungry and exhausted. As he thinks of the unfairness of his life until that point, tears roll down his cheeks, and he is suddenly aware of someone or something walking beside him. Shasta is terrified yet strangely comforted. I'll pick up with the story here...

Once more he felt the warm breath of the Thing on his hand and face. "...Tell me your sorrows."

Shasta was a little reassured by the breath: so he told how he had never known his real father or mother and had been brought up sternly by the fisherman. And then he told the story of his escape and how they were chased by lions and forced to swim for their lives; and of all their dangers in Tashbaan and about his night among the tombs and how the beasts howled at him out of the desert. And he told about the heat and the thirst of their desert journey and how they were almost at their goal when another lion chased them and wounded Aravis. And also, how very long it was since he had had anything to eat.

"I do not call you unfortunate," said the Large Voice.

"Don't you think it was bad luck to meet so many lions?" said Shasta.

"There was only one lion," said the Voice.

"What on earth do you mean? I've just told you there were at least two the first night, and-"

"There was only one; but he was swift of foot."

"How do you know?"

"I was the lion." And as Shasta gaped with open mouth and said nothing, the Voice continued. "I was the Lion who forced you to join with Aravis. I was the cat who comforted you among the houses of the dead. I was the lion who drove the jackals from you while you slept. I was the lion who gave the horses the new strength of fear for the last mile so that you should reach King Lune in time. And I was the lion you do not remember who pushed the boat in which you lay, a child near death, so that it came to shore where a man sat, wakeful at midnight, to receive you."

"Then it was you who wounded Aravis?"

"It was I."

"But what for?"

"Child," said the Voice, "I am telling you your story, not hers. I tell no one any story but his own."

"Who ARE you?" asked Shasta.

"Myself," said the Voice, very deeply and low so that the earth shook: and again, "Myself," loud and clear and gay: and then the third time, "Myself," whispered so softly you could hardly hear it, and yet it seemed to come from all around you as if the leaves rustled with it.

Shasta was no longer afraid that the Voice belonged to something that would eat him, or that it was the voice of a ghost. A new and different sort of trembling came over him. Yet he felt glad too.

~~~~~~~

I don't pretend to know why this great tragedy has befallen the Davises. All I know is that He is good, and He is terrifying, and He is safe -in my life. And, He answers to no one.

~~~~~~~

Do YOU see any resemblance?

2008-01-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

Yvette sent me this comparison as her rationale that Rebecca and I look alike. I STILL don't see any resemblance!

In this photo I am about 22, sans any makeup; those were my 'hippie days'. Rebecca is about 28. Keep that in mind! (I think Rebecca is much prettier than I was)

Once a Chargers Fan, Always...

2008-01-21T22:17:00.000-08:00

John (Dave's son), circa 1988

Siblings Dave, Lori, me, and Mike, circa 1980

Time to Vote Again!

2008-01-19T10:18:00.000-08:00

The entries were paltry, but as promised, the vote is on! Cast your vote in the left-hand column...

Winner gets a $10 Starbucks card.

Turn Out the Lights; the Party's Over!

2008-01-17T22:10:00.000-08:00

T'was a wonderful evening...thanks to all our friends and family who stopped in! (click on any photo to enlarge it)

Ecstatic Congratulations!

2008-01-17T09:23:00.000-08:00

There's some wonderful news; Congratulations to Josh, Rebecca and, of course, Caleb! You have our prayers for a healthy and safe pregnancy.

(I'm going to need a new name. Any suggestions?)

Come On By!

2008-01-16T18:08:00.000-08:00

(Rick on a recent "junk find")

(Soda Fountain/Chain Skirt Lamp, far right window)

We are very excited about an opportunity that has come along for us.

A local gallery, the Chartreuse Muse, has invited Rick as a featured artist (along with two others) during January and February. He will have the opportunity to show and offer for sale several Art Lamps.

The opening reception is Thursday, Jan. 17. Come on by! We'd love to see you...

~~~~~~~~

(Clarinet Lamp and Gas Jet Lamp)

(FireBox/Nozzle Lamp and three Blender Lamps)

(10K Watt Studio Bulb Lamp along wall)

(Lens Pulley Lamp, left, and Trouble Light Lamp, middle)

"HEADSCRATCHER"- NEW CONTEST!

2008-01-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

The popularity of the Word Verification Game in November prompts me to initiate a new one.

This is how this one will work:

Go to the "comments" link at the bottom of this post.

Submit your favorite "Headscratcher" (see my entry). Be original! Have fun! (Keep it family-friendly)

You can play as many times as you want.

On January 19, I'll put a poll here with the names of all participants, and anyone who wishes can vote for the most creative commenter! (Yours Truly will be exempt.) I'll snail-mail a $10 Starbucks card to the winner!

If It Walks Like a Duck...

2008-01-06T22:20:00.001-08:00

This door was in a Mexican restaurant in which we ate today. It opened out into an alley.

My question, if it's not an exit, what is it?

Flu, Schmu!

2007-12-31T13:04:00.000-08:00

The Spaghetti Cook-off was Called-off due to a mysterious flu reportedly afflicting a main contender.

The word on the streets is, the competition was too daunting*.

;-)

*daunting: (adjective) seeming difficult to deal with in anticipation; intimidating.

My Patriotic ExPatriate

2007-12-28T19:04:00.000-08:00

What do they say?

"You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy."

It's our JOB to spoil him!!

2007-12-22T18:46:00.000-08:00

Uncle Dan showing Caleb one of Papa Rick's blender lamps.

Breakfast this morning. Bacon, scrambled eggs, and his mom's homemade pancakes.

He doesn't know it's not Christmas yet ;-)

Is it Ramadan or Hanukkah or Christmas?

2007-12-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

I'm don't mind "Happy Holidays" when it's wished in a general sense, and you're not sure which holiday someone celebrates.

But, this nonsense goes too far when it's December 18th, and Hanukkah and Ramadan are now behind us.

I received emails this morning from Barnes and Noble, Amazon, Borders, ToysRUs, etc., letting me know that if I order TODAY, I can get my delivery "in time for the Holidays". So, why don't they just say, "in time for Christmas"? Are there people that actually order ahead in December 2007 for Ramadan and Hanukkah 2008?

And, are the post office and your bank closed for the "Holiday"? Or are they closed for "Christmas"?

Why is everyone afraid to say, "Merry Christmas!!"?

A Christmas Essay

2007-12-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

This essay was written by an acquaintance whom I greatly admire, Pamela LaChapell. She has inspired me as a stepmother and as a Christian. I invite you to read it. I've started the article here, and continued it in the comment section...

What Do You Want For Christmas?

Have you ever poured your heart and soul into a gift? Perhaps you searched and searched for just the right gift for a special person. Or maybe you spent hours creating it yourself, adding lots of TLC along the way. Your mind conjured up images of the delight on the recipient’s face as she would unwrap your labor of love. The moment you have been anxiously waiting for finally arrives. Your camera is fixed on her face, so determined are you to capture the grand moment on film. But wait... something’s wrong. Her reaction is not at all what you anticipated. Perhaps she doesn’t appreciate the immense effort you put into this gift, or the price you paid, or maybe she just didn’t grasp the significance of your gift to her. You feel dejected at her indifference. (continued in comment section)

ATWIEJB

2007-12-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

And The Winner Is Elizabeth Joy B----------

The final vote for winner in the Word Verification Game was Lori (1), Jessica (2), Rebecca (5) and Elizabeth (7). I've got the $10 Starbucks gift card all ready to present to her.

TWALOF (That was a lot of fun!)

Brevity

2007-12-11T17:42:00.001-08:00

I am embarrassed to admit that I am old enough to remember WESTERN UNION telegrams. In fact, for a short time, I worked for a company that sent and received telegrams.

Telegrams were paid for by the word. The trick was to make your telegram say what you wanted it to say in as few words as possible.

Today, while text messaging (on my cell phone, for those who might not actually be functioning in the 21st century) back and forth with my niece and later my daughter, it struck me that things haven't changed all that much in 30 years. True, we don't pay for text messaging by the word, but it's still a challenge to say what you want it to say in as few words as possible!

"ruok? i'm gr8. cu l8tr"

TTFN! ;-)

Exercise Your Right to VOTE!

2007-12-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

Take time to review the entries in the Word Verification Game. Then, please vote (at the left) for the Most Creative Person. The winner on December 15th will receive a $10 Starbucks card!

You don't have to have played to vote; the more voters the better! But, no "stuffin' the ballot box"! One vote per person, please... Oh, and you can vote for yourself. No one will know.

=D

It's OFFICIAL!

2007-12-07T20:50:00.001-08:00

The people have spoken.

69% is the majority. If you want to play the Exchange Game at the C****/T**** Reunion, bring a WRAPPED, UNTAGGED (neither "to" nor "from") REAL (not gag) gift worth about $15.00.

Christmas Brunch Preview

2007-12-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

Every year for many years, our tradition has been to have Christmas Breakfast. I make nutmeg muffins from scratch (with FRESH nutmeg), scrambled eggs, premium bacon, and orange juice.

This year, we are so excited that Caleb, Dave, Debbie and their twin sons Charlie and Greg will join us, as well as Caleb, Mom, Harry and Aunt Lynn, and of course Caleb, Elizabeth, Daniel, Josh, Rebecca and Caleb, and hopefully Parker (did I mention Caleb?).

And, in place of the scrambled eggs and bacon, I'm trying a new recipe! Actually, I had it many years ago at an office party. I remember it was fabulous. What appeals to me is that you make it ahead, freeze it, and bake it when you need it. This frees me up for Christmas morning, since I plan to play with Caleb and his new toys from Gram and Papa! =D

Here it is...

CHARLOTTE'S* BAKED EGGS

6 bread slices, cut in cubes
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (Hilmar Cheese is the best!)
1 cup smoked, cubed ham
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
6 eggs
3 cups milk

Mix bread, cheese, ham, peppers and onion. Spread in a 13X9 baking dish, treated with Pam. Whisk eggs and milk, pour over the top. Cover with foil and freeze.

To prepare: Thaw and bake uncovered in a pre-heated 375 degree oven for 45 mins. Serve topped with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Makes 8-10 servings.

Variations:
French bread; cooked, crumbled bacon or Canadian bacon.

*in memory of Charlotte Boyd, the amazing lady who hosted a Christmas breakfast for our whole office of about 30 people, and passed away shortly thereafter from breast cancer. Rest in peace with Jesus, Charlotte!

Speaking of Word Games...

2007-11-29T09:03:00.001-08:00

Have some fun and feed someone!
=o
=p
=)

Made Me Laugh

2007-11-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

So, is this the door for impetuous, reckless people to enter the building?

(Saw this outside a pediatrics office at my medical building)

JUMP TO: Family Spaghetti Reunion

2007-11-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

The original post is getting buried. Jump here to the latest comments! =D
not2bright: Family Spaghetti Reunion

Comments on the Therapeutic Word Verification Game

2007-11-24T17:44:00.000-08:00

Remember, kids! Only game entries on the previous post. If you're not playing, but have some opinions, make your comments HERE!

Therapeutic Word Verification Game!

2007-11-23T15:11:00.000-08:00

Channel your frustration into something good for your brain. =O

Here's how to play.

Go to the "comments" link at the bottom of this post.

Take the verification letters at the end of the box ahead of you, and make (an) intelligible, even if silly, sentence(s) out of it. (Please, keep your sentences family-friendly. And don't enter a comment unless you are actually playing.)

Then, transfer the word verification letters you have to type to enter your comment, leaving them in your comment for the next person. (See my leading entry...)

You can play as many times as you want! Just not twice in a row (keeps it honest).

On December 7, I'll put a poll here with the names of all participants, and anyone who wishes can vote for the most creative commenter! (Yours Truly will be exempt.) I'll snail-mail a $10 Starbucks card to the winner!

Eat Your Vegetables and Be Thankful!

2007-11-20T16:42:00.001-08:00

Did you know Pumpkin is a healthy vegetable?

If you're into nutrition, that fact will ease your mind when you bake these absolutely delicious

Pumpkin Bars

1 cup vegetable oil (I use light olive oil)
2 cups pumpkin (1 small can)
3 eggs
2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
2 tsps. cinnamon
2 tsps. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and blend thoroughly by hand or with a mixer. Pour into a greased and floured jelly roll pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 mins.

Cool and top with

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar
7 tsps. melted butter

And you thought vegetables were boring! =D

Giving Thanks

2007-11-17T15:33:00.001-08:00

Yvette showed up on my doorstep this afternoon with a gift from Rebecca. Before she left for Singapore, Rebecca made arrangements with her to store a few gifts, and have them delivered when appropriate.

The first one, in August, was a fired ceramic plate for my birthday. It is bright and colorful, adorned with a happy butterfly made from Caleb's footprints!

Today's delivery was a Thanksgiving plate, with Caleb's precious little hand print making a turkey... Although it won't be the same this year without them here, Thanksgiving will seem a little less lonely.

I am so thankful for my beautiful, thoughtful daughter!

Family Spaghetti Reunion

2007-11-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 30th, 2 PM

This won't be interesting to you unless you are a family member. But if you are one of the C---k/T---x clan, read on!

Sunday, December 30 at 2 PM we're all getting together (as many as can) for The Great Spaghetti "I Can't Believe I Ate The Whole Thing!" Cook-Off Challenge. It will be in R-------e, at Barbara's. We're expecting ABOUT 30 people, counting the small fries.

This is the place to post info, sign up to bring food, make suggestions, and just generally "meet" until we meet in person then.

(A word to the wise... please don't post any clearly identifying information such as last names, addresses, etc. We don't want any party crashers!)

~~~

Here's what we know, so far:

The Matriarch is making her famous sauce (I've asked her to write down the recipe as she goes, so we can all replicate it in our own kitchens) and meatballs.

Lori is challenging The Matriarch by bringing her sauce.

Not to be outdone, The Patriarch, is offering his sauce, and challenging a blind-taste test.

We are hoping Debbie brings her meatballs.

Jessica is bringing the spaghetti (pasta).

Elizabeth will bring in the grated Parmesan/Romano cheese.

I (Judi) will bring a huge green salad.

Madeline's bringing in a fruit salad, and by popular request, Uncle Frank's Sugar Cookies. I've been begging for that cookie recipe for over 20 years, but she's loyal to the W----- Clan's sworn secret.

The Patriarch has also volunteered to bring a very expensive Chianti!

Rebecca is providing a dessert. I'm sure we can use more than one!

Barbara's doing the garlic bread... mmm-mm! And Debbie's offering her home-made French bread recipe to anyone who wants to make it. I think Barbara took her up on the offer.

The Matriarch has volunteered her Little Sister (Aunt Lynn) to make a cheesecake. (Funny how bossy Big Sister's are! Right, Lori?)

Dan agrees to bring the paper goods. I think he's banking on having less dishes to do, since he's in that 3rd generation AND a guy!

Each household bring your own beverages! Easier that way; you know what you like!

~~~

There will be a Gift Game. Anyone who wants to participate should bring a WRAPPED gift, without a "to" or "from" on it. It's easy to play and a ton of fun! (VOTE in the upper left column for GAG or REAL, and amount!)

~~~

I, for one, can't wait to see you all! ...WATCH THIS SPOT!

~~~

6 Good Reasons to Stay at a Motel 6

2007-11-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

I've often joked that the closest I'll get to camping is staying in a Motel 6 with a Denny's next door. I am a creature of comfort and love staying in a nice Hilton or Embassy Suites.

On a recent trip to the coast (see previous post), we decided to take our aunt's advice to try a Motel 6. She said that they've revamped everything, and the rooms are new, clean and pleasant. And cheap! That caught my attention... We compared prices in San Luis Obispo where we were spending a night, and -lo and behold!- Motel 6 was a full $120 less than Embassy Suites (our favorite when we are in SLO). So, we booked!

Here are 6 reasons why we would recommend Motel 6:

1) SAVE ENERGY! Who needs a mini-refrigerator, coffeemaker or hairdryer? (If you really have to have those pesky little perks, bring an ice chest and your own appliances. Oh, and you might want to throw in a box of Kleenex, unless you don't mind blowing your nose with toilet paper.)

2) MAKE NEW FRIENDS! It's easy to chat with your neighbors through those paper thin walls. And truckers with ripped arms are comforting to have nearby.

3) GET CLOSE TO NATURE! A hike doesn't always have to be on a dirt trail, you know. You can encounter plenty of interesting sights along a long exterior concrete walkway, fully exposed to the rain, hail or snow. (If you pack a backpack instead of a suitcase, you can get the full effect!)

4) MULTI-TASK! Brush your teeth, change the TV channel, hang your clothes on the rack, all while sitting on your bed!

5) KEEP UP YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE! Well, if you're into isometrics, anyway. While standing in the vanity/bathroom, anyone 5'5" or above can easily reach the ceiling and tighten those arm muscles! And, if you're 6'4" or more, you'll be doing waistbends...

6) GET A BEAUTY TREATMENT! Where else can you find towels that double as exfoliaters? Mmmm-mmmm, love to scratch my back...

(Seriously, it wasn't all that bad!)