My Anything But A Normal Life

I'M SORRY... I MOVED!

2007-02-06T02:44:00.000-08:00

http://notsonormalnews.blogspot.com

JUST WHEN I THOUGHT IT WAS SAFE TO

2007-02-05T01:33:00.000-08:00

uy my cigarettes over the Internet from the Indian Reservations...

Brick resident Craig Mathews, 57, quit smoking last April, but not before racking up a $10,426.11 sales-tax bill for buying cigarettes over the Web for years.

New Jersey residents who buy their cigarettes over the Internet are experiencing a big reason to quit: huge sales-tax bills.

The state is cracking down on residents who buy their smokes online to avoid state sales tax, a development that has caught many Garden State smokers by surprise.

Tim Nolan, 52, received a sales-tax bill from the state of New Jersey for $4,115.28 for the Pall Mall cigarettes he purchased online from July 2003 to March 2005.

Both men said they bought the cigarettes over the Internet to save money and didn't know that they had to pay sales tax to the state of New Jersey.

"We should have gotten a warning," Nolan told the Asbury Park Press in yesterday's editions. "We were ignorant of the law."

A professor at Rutgers School of Law, Mark Weiner, said that under a federal law called the Jenkins Act, tobacco companies that sell their products to out-of-state consumers must report sales information to the state where the consumer lives.

Observations and Questions

This is just crazy... Cigarettes they want people to quit... buy you can still carry that trusty firearm.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1848 Belle Starr [Myra Belle Shirley] US female outlaw (wild west). And in the death notices in 1973 L C William Nolde last US soldier killed in Vietnam, funeral.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Finland : Runeberg Day (1804)
Japan : Japanese Martyrs Day (26 martyrs-1597)
Mexico : Constitution Day (1857 & 1917)
Roman calendar : Nonae Februarius
San Marino : Liberation Day
Tanzania : Birth of the Afro Shirazi Party

WHEN WILL THE

2007-02-02T03:36:00.000-08:00

adness end? I swear to God, I wish lawmakers would honestly announce their intentions and take an IQ test before running for office.

Parents beware: Miss a meeting with your child's teacher and it could cost you a $500 fine and a criminal record.

A state lawmaker from Baytown has filed a bill that would charge parents of public school students with a misdemeanor and fine them for playing hooky from a scheduled parent-teacher conference.

Rep. Wayne Smith said Wednesday he wants to get parents involved in their child's education.

"I think it helps the kids for the parents and teachers to communicate. That's all the intent was," Smith said.

Parents could avoid prosecution if they have a "reasonable excuse" for not showing up. State education officials or local school districts would probably be responsible for defining reasonable.

Observations and Questions

Be honest now... is it me?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1948 Jessica Savitch Kennett Square PA, news anchor (NBC). And in the death notices in 1995 Donald Pleasance English actor (Halloween), dies at 75.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

US : Groundhog Day

WHEN "STARS" CRASH...

2007-02-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

ars. The other day Brandy... recording artist, crashed her 2007 Land Rover, into the back of another woman's car, a Toyota, and killed her. The impact caused the Toyota to slam into the rear of another vehicle and then careen toward the center divider, where it was struck by 1988 Acura. Awatef Aboudihaj, 38, died later that day of injuries sustained during the wreck.

California Highway Patrol officials have recommended the filing of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charges against the R&B singer (full name: Brandy Norwood) in connection with the December 30 crash on the 405 Freeway.

Aboudihaj Ahmed and Labridi Zohra, the parents of the dead woman has filed a $50 million dollar wrongful death lawsuit against Brandy.

It will be interesting as hell to see the outcome of this one... not the wrongful death suit... I mean when Brandy goes before the Judge and is sentenced.

Observations and Questions

Love to hear your comments...

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1968 Lisa Marie Presley Keough Jackson Memphis TN, (Elvis' daughter). And in the death notices in 1851 Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley novelist (Frankenstein), dies at 53.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Malaysia : Federal Territory Holiday (1974)
Nicaragua : Air Force Day
US : National Freedom Day
China : Chinese New Year-The Year of the Pig (1995/4693) End of Sexageney
China : Chinese New Year-The Year of the Ram/Sheep (2003/4701)

LET'S SAY I BREAK

2007-01-30T02:48:00.000-08:00

nto your house... Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Certain people are angry that the US might protect its own borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and, once here, to stay indefinitely.

Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind these protests. Let's say I break into your house. Let's say that when you discover me in your house, you insist that I leave. But I say, "I've made all the beds and washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors; I've done all the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest (except for when I broke into your house).

According to the protesters, not only must you let me stay, you must add me to your family 's insurance plan, educate my kids, and provide other benefits to me and to my family (my husband will do your yard work because he too is hard-working and honest, except for that breaking in part). If you try to call the police or force me out, I will call my friends who will picket your house carrying signs that proclaim my right to be there.

It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm just trying to better myself. I'm hard-working and honest, um, except for well, you know.

And what a deal it is for me!! I live in your house, contributing only a fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it without being accused of selfishness, prejudice and being an anti-housebreaker. Oh yeah, and I want you to learn my language so you can communicate with me."

Observations and Questions

Why can't people see how ridiculous this is?

Breaking News!

This morning, from a cave somewhere in Pakistan , Taliban Minister of Migration, Mohammed Omar, warned the United States that if military action against Iraq continues, Taliban authorities will cut off America 's supply of convenience store managers. And if this action does not yield sufficient results, cab drivers will be next, followed by Dell and AOL customer service reps. and Motel 6 managers.

It's getting ugly!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1931 Gene Hackman California, actor (Bonnie & Clyde, Under Fire, Superman). And in the death notices in 1838 Osceola chief of Seminole Indians, dies in jail .

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

England : Women Peerage Day (1958)
Kentucky, Virgin Islands : Franklin D Roosevelt Day

PANCAKE MAKERS UNITE!

2007-01-29T02:03:00.000-08:00

ow you folks know me... I rarely complain. Okay, maybe I'm stretching it a bit there. Anyway, how many of you eat pancakes out there? Come on now, raise your hands... ok, I see one, two, five, a lot of hands.

The box I have are the kinda instant, water and mix type. When I use to make pancakes for the kids years ago, I did it from scratch with flour, etc. Now that I have reach advanced laziness I but almost prepared stuff.

Anyway, the directions on the box for 6-9 pancakes are 1 cup of mix and 3/4 cup water.

First of all this does NOT make 6 to 9 pancakes, unless you want pancakes the size of a 25 cent piece. If I like normal size pancakes, this recipe makes 2.5 cakes. Plus there is something majorly wrong with the recipe! If you follow the directions closely using 1 cup of water or milk and 3/4 cups mix... these pancakes are so friggin' thick I have to use a spoon to get the mix onto the griddle... and they take forever to cook on one side. What am I doing wrong?

The directions couldn't be wrong, so it must be me. Below the directions is a note: For thicker pancakes use less water. Holy crap, I'd have to use a jack-hammer to get the stuff onto the griddle.

Every box of mix I look at in the store has the same measurements. I honestly think the ingredients need to be reversed... 1 cup of water/milk and 3/4 cup mix. That way they are a little bit thinner and more manageable.

Observations and Questions

Does anyone else have this problem? Or is it just me?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1880 W C Fields [William Claude Dukenfield] Philadelphia PA, "on the whole, he'd rather be in Philadelphia"/actor (My Little Chickadee, Bank Dick). And in the death notices in 1980 Jimmy Durante New York City NY, singer/comedian (Ink-a-dink-a-doo, Palooka, The Jimmy Durante Show), dies at 86.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Kansas : Admission Day/Kansas Day (1861)
Australia : Australia Day (1788 - 1993)
China : Chinese New Year-The Year of the Tiger (1998/4696)
China : Chinese New Year-The Year of the Dog (2006/4704)

VACATION DAY... I NEED A BREAK

2007-01-25T04:54:00.000-08:00

A PICTURE IS....

2007-01-24T03:33:00.000-08:00

orth a thousand words:

Observations and Questions

Comments anyone?

AND TODAYS' WEATHER FORECAST IS...

2007-01-23T04:00:00.000-08:00

ell, that depends on where in the country you are situationed. The other day I sat and wondered, if I were to move, where would I go... I looked across the United States and started listing the Pros and Cons of each area. I've broken the US down into three zones.

California and the west: Forest Fires that makes Hell jealous
Mid-West: Tornados of "Wizard of Oz" proportions
East Coast: Hurricanes of Biblical proportions

Observations and Questions

My question is pretty easy. Where do you live and do you experience any horrible things that I would not like to endure?

TO SPANK OR NOT TO SPANK

2007-01-20T01:05:00.000-08:00

he State of California has seemed to answer that age old question for the residents of that state.

The other day California became the first state in the country to outlaw spanking your child.

To be honest I am not so sure this is a good idea. Not that I believe in spanking but rather this could be the beginning of intrusion by the state into other aspects of our lives.

Observations and Questions

Any comments?

ANOTHER PIT BULL STORY

2007-01-17T22:01:00.000-08:00

ow I know we have a few pit bull owners who read the "News" and I am sorry if I upset you with this story... but it must be told...

I was watching Court TV today and they had an interesting story. A guy in Florida was caught with his pit bull by his wife. Ummmm, the guy was in a quite compromising position with the pooch. The wife took 2 pictures of the naked chap with their doggie and promptly called police. That is the story I wanted to share with you today, unfortunately Court TV hadn't put it up on their website yet. So I found a similar story to share with y'all... I didn't know pit bulls were so sexually attractive. Ugh.

A Spanaway, Pierce County, man has become the first person charged under the state's new felony bestiality law.

Michael Patrick McPhail, 26, was charged Thursday with one count of first-degree animal cruelty after his wife allegedly caught him having sex with the family's pit bull, according to charging papers filed in Pierce County Superior Court.

The woman snapped two photos with her cellphone camera, then dialed 911, authorities said.

McPhail was bailed out of jail on Friday, two days after the alleged incident.

According to Rita Morgan, national cruelty coordinator for Pasado's Safe Haven, McPhail is the first person in the state charged under the new law, which makes bestiality a Class C felony, punishable by a maximum of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The law was spurred by the case of a Seattle man who died last year after having sex with a horse at an Enumclaw farm.

Observations and Questions

Ummmm... I know there are a few pit bull readers out there. Any comments?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1955 Kevin Costner Los Angeles CA, actor (Fandango, Silverado, Bull Durham). And in the death notices in 1978 Carl Betz actor (Alex Stone-Donna Reed Show), dies at 56.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Tunisia : Revolution Day (1956)

I JUST HAD TO LOOK OUTSIDE

2007-01-17T04:08:00.000-08:00

fter watching the weather report last night before I went to bed, I just knew when I woke up this morning Houston was going to be buried in 10 feet of snow.

It is soooooooooo cold down here.... I think I saw the temperature hugging the 31 degree mark this morning. It actually took me about 45 minutes to find my excuse of a winter coat, just in case I needed to go out to the store, or seek shelter in a local school.

The last time it snowed here the city went into a genuine panic. It snowed less than a quarter inch and it was mayhem on the highways. Cars were all over the place. Schools shut down and forget city services. Having lived in Philly a quarter inch of snow was a nice, balmy spring day. I can remember one snow storm where when I opened the back door to my house, the snow was literally up to the top of the door. I was greeted with a complete wall of snow over my head.

Observations and Questions

How's the weather in your neck of the woods?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1899 Al Capone, Italy, gangster (Chicago bootlegging). And in the death notices in 1874 Chang & Eng Bunker Chinese/Thai Siamese twins, die at 62.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Poland : Liberation Day

MY NEW DIET

2007-01-16T00:13:00.000-08:00

es folks, I am on a new diet. No, not the South Beach Diet, I'm not seeing Jenny Craig... this is the Denny Shane Starvation Diet. And it really works! The only rule is you cannot eat food! Yes, yes, I know about the health risks of not eating... but on the positive side... I'll look terrific in my coffin.

Of course I haven't stopped eating... I'm not completely crazy... yes you are, am not, are to... I'm simply cutting way back on what I eat.

And I thought what better way to help me lose weight than to put it right out there for the world to see. Since I hate to lose and embaress myself, I've decided to put the pressure on myself by publicly doing this weight thing.

Every morning I'll weigh myself when I wake up and put the results up top on the banner-thingy. I am serious about losing weight this time. The reason: oh forget health... I am losing weight for love.

If ever I am going to get a woman I have to get back down to my love weight... which is about 190 lbs. If getting there is easy then I may even try for my Navy weight 160 lbs.

Observations and Questions

Who knows, by the end of the week I may say "to hell with it all" Shrug. Oh, and P.S. Don't ask me what BMI means becauase I don't know and I don't care. I only deal in pounds and ozs.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1959 Sade [Helen Folsade Ady] Ibadan Nigeria, rocker (Smooth Operator, Sweetest Taboo; Grammy 1986-Best new singer). And in the death notices in 1343 Robert of Anjou king (Naples), dies.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

US : Martin Luther King Jr Day (1929)
Virginia : Lee-Jackson Day

KEEEEEE---RASHHHH

2007-01-14T22:57:00.000-08:00

hen two more keee---rashhhh's, right outside my bedroom window... and I do mean right outside. I jumped up in bed and opened the blinds... another pick-up truck and a small sedan two feet from my bedroom window smashed... and there was a pick-up truck revving his engine and off he went and proceeded to crash into two more cars, before swinging around and crashing through a chain-link fence and coming to a stop.

I'm writing this at 1 AM, and this all happened at midnight. So I get dressed and head on out to see the damages. By now there are tons of people out there all milling around checking out all the damages and smashed cars. The driver of the truck that did all the damages appeared to be okay.

The funny thing is none of these people saw the accidents but they all knew just how it happened... and none of their stories matched. Laugh. I think the cops had 8 different versions. One of the cops walked towards me with pen and pad in hand... I waved him off and said, "I was sleeping." and he walked away.

An accident like this brings out the people... there were residents that I had never even seen before milling all around. A cute dark-haired woman was standing next to me asking what happened. I filled her in as much as I could and with what I picked up from the other people. At one point there was a loud popping sound coming from one of the cars. The cute woman grabbed my arm... yes, had anything happened I would have thrown her to the ground and covered her body with mine to protect her... unfortunately nothing happened after that.

And now, here it is 1:16AM... I am wide awake... the only good thing to come out of this whole incident is that I have my blog article written for Monday. Yippeee.

Observations and Questions

Anything ya wanna say?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1951 Charo Murcia Spain, actress/singer (Chico & the Man, Love Boat). And in the death notices in 1987 Ray Bolger actor/dancer (Wizard of Oz), dies at 82.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Guatemala : Esquipulas
Japan : Adults Day/Seijin-No-Hi
Jordan : Arbor Day
Venezuala : Teachers' Day/Dia Del Maestro
US : Martin Luther King Jr Day (1929)

B0B WOULDN'T GET CAUGHT DOING THIS...

2007-01-12T02:20:00.000-08:00

ager to try out a new prescription for the erectile dysfunction drug Cialis, a couple in their fifties is facing indecent exposure charges after they were caught having sex on a balcony at a family resort in South Carolina. William McGinn, 57, and Patricia Scott, 53, were arrested Saturday afternoon when other vacationers at the Breakers Resort spotted them engaging in a variety of sex acts on their third-floor balcony, according to a Myrtle Beach Police Department.

One witness told cops that McGinn and Scott ignored requests that they take it inside, away from the view of guests, including children. When police confronted the couple, they claimed that onlookers were just "jealous," adding that if other guests "did not want to see them, then they didn't have to look." McGinn told officers that he had just received his Cialis prescription and, "he and Scott were in love." As she was being placed in a patrol car, Scott complained to one cop that she and McGinn were "just f**king" and "didn't see the problem." McGinn and Scott were booked into the Myrtle Beach Police Department jail.

Now we've all done similar things... right? LOL. I guess there's a question of civil rights and the right to persue happiness and then there's public decency and indecency.

Observations and Questions

Let's assume you were the Judge... what would you decide?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1906 Tex Ritter Texas, country singer (5 Star Jubilee, The Wayward Wind). And in the death notices in 1976 Agatha Christie mystery writer (10 Little Indians), dies at 85.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Tanzania: Zanzibar Revolution Day

I AM FINALLY OUTRAGED!!

2007-01-10T04:50:00.000-08:00

s many of you know, I am normally a very mild-mannered person... shutup, yes I am.

Did I get upset when my bagel place went from 25 cents to 30 cents for Everything On Them Bagels?? A little but that was ok... You think I got upset when gas hit a bazillion bucks a gallon? A bit, but such is life.

This morning, before going to the bagel place I walked into the Walmart Grocery store which is across from the bagel place.

I need cigarettes. I non-chalantly walked up to the counter... before the cashier got to me I had the opportunity to glance over the cigarettes. Which brand should I buy this week?

Holy good crap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wait, that deserves a few more !!!!!!!!!!!

My eyes first hit Marlboro 100's. $54.60 a carton... Holy Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thought to myself, man am I glad I smoke the cheap ones. I looked down on the bottom shelf... hahahahahah obviously a joke. Last week the no name cigarettes were a mere $20.00... $36 mind-blowing dollars and 52 friggen cents!!!

I thought I was gonna have another stroke right on the spot! I think I decided that the time has come... finally. After all these years.... yep... I have to find the blog address of that Indian reservation that sells them for $14.00 a carton.

Oh big deal... so they make them out of tumbleweed...

Observations and Questions

Do I even want to ask?

PLEASE NOTE

This is a cause we can all get behind! Hugo Chavez, friend to Castro, Iran, Syria, Al Quida and the larger socialist movement, has vowed to destroy the
United States. Now he changes the name of his nationalized oil fields and the associated fuel company, CITGO, in an attempt to continue "stealing" money from his avowed enemy. Let him drink the oil or swim in it; don't help the bastard take your money under false pretenses. It is time we all remembered that the United States is at WAR with Al Quida and their supporters - Iran, Syria, etc. In war you don't support your enemies or theirallies. DON'T BUY PETRO EXPRESS!

WHAT ARE THE QUESTIONS?

2007-01-09T02:38:00.000-08:00

et's see how good you guys really are... I was going through some emails yesterday and deleting them by the barrelful. I thought it would be fun to write out my top 5 answers to those email letters.

And here they are:

1. I would never do that...

2. Normally 7 inches, sometimes 8 inches

3. If the moment were right, I might

4. I think 300 would be my limit

5. I would if you would

Observations and Questions

Your assignment? What were the questions I was/were asked?

PLEASE NOTE

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1913 Richard Milhouse Nixon Yorba Linda CA, (R) 37th President (1969-74). And in the death notices in 1324 Marco Polo Italian explorer.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Connecticut : Ratification Day (1788)
Panama, Canal Zone : Martyrs' Day/Dia de los Martires

AN UNPLEASANT SUBJECT

2007-01-08T03:39:00.000-08:00

es, some people may think this is an unpleasant subject. But it is something I've wondered about... Now you'll see just how goofy and erratic my brain works, day in and day out.

In your bathroom... where is your toilet paper? Namely on the little roller attached to the wall? Or could it be on the toilet tank? On the floor? On the bathtub edge? Or per chance is it where it's supposed to be on the toilet paper holder thingy?

I thought about this at 3:30 AM this morning... There I was minding my own business, I reached over to the bathtub edge and took the toilet paper and in one swoop I dropped it. Normally, it just rolls across the floor... this time it not only rolled across the floor, but it continued rolling into the other room. Stopping at the opposite end of said room.

Now I had to slowly, meticulously and gently pull the edge of the paper back towards me... moving so slowly as not to unroll it again and have to start all over.

Oh shutup... you know this has happened to you...

Observations and Questions

So... where is your toilet paper?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1947 David Bowie [Jones], London, singer/actor (Major Tom, Ziggy Stardust). And in the death notices in 1324 Marco Polo Venetian explorer/Governor of Nanking, dies.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Louisiana : Battle of New Orleans/Old Hickory Day/ Jackson Day (1815)
Switzerland : Meitlisunntig Festival-Woman in Villmergen War (1712)

?

2007-01-05T02:53:00.000-08:00

Observations and Questions

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1914 George Reeves [George Lescher Bessolo], actor (Superman). And in the death notices in 1998 Sonny Bono (Representative-R-CA)/singer (Sonny & Cher), dies skiing at 62.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bird Day (1905)
England : Glastonbury Thorn Day

OH COME ON, YOU KNOW THE ANSWERS

2007-01-04T02:02:00.000-08:00

o you have your thinking cap on today? You won't need it, these are pretty easy. Uh huh...

Q1. A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms: The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven't eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him?

Q2. A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him under water for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How can this be?

Q3. A magician was boasting one day at how long he could hold his breath under water. His record was 6 minutes. A kid that was listening said, "that's nothing, I can stay under water for 10 minutes using no type of equipment or air pockets!" The magician told the kid if he could do that, he'd give him $10,000. The kid did it and won the money. Can you figure out how?

Q4. There are two plastic jugs filled with water. How could you put all of this water into a barrel, without using the jugs or any dividers, and still tell which water came from which jug?

Q5. What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and grey when you throw it away?

Q6. Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday?

Q7. This is an unusual paragraph. I'm curious how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it? It looks so plain you would think nothing was wrong with it! In fact, nothing is wrong with it! It is unusual though. Study it, and think about it, but you still may not find anything odd. But if you work at it a bit, you might find out! Try to do so without any coaching!

Q8. You are participating in a race. You overtake the second person. What position are you in?

Q9. If you overtake the last person, then you are...?

Q10. (in your head!) Take 1000 and add 40 to it. Now add another 1000. Now add 30. Add another 1000. Now add 20. Now add another 1000. Now add 10. What is the total?

Q11. Mary's father has five daughters: 1. Nana, 2. Nene, 3. Nini, 4. Nono. What is the name of the fifth daughter?

ANSWERS:

A1. The third. Lions that haven't eaten in three years are dead.

A2. The woman was a photographer. She shot a picture of her husband, developed it, and hung it up to dry.

A3. The kid filled a glass of water and held it over his head for 10 minutes.

A4. Colour and Freeze them first. Take them out of the jugs and put the ice in the barrel. You will be able to tell which water came from which jug.

A5. The answer is Charcoal. In Homer Simpson's words: hmmmm... Barbecue.

A6. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.

A7. The letter "e", which is the most common letter in the English language, does not appear once in the long paragraph

A8. If you answer that you are first, then you are absolutely wrong! If you overtake the second person and you take his place, you are second!

A9. If you answered that you are second to last, then you are wrong again. Tell me, how can you overtake the LAST person?!

A10. Did you get 5000? The correct answer is actually 4100. Don't believe it? Check with your calculator!

A11. Nunu? NO! Of course not. The fifth daughter is Mary. Read the question again.

I NEVER KNEW YOU COULD...

2007-01-03T02:02:00.000-08:00

o and mine for diamonds for free...

An Arkansas man has found a 2.37-carat white diamond at the world's only diamond-bearing site where visitors are allowed to search for and keep the gems they find.

Gary Dunlap of Jefferson named the diamond he found the Star of Thelma to honor his wife of more than 10 years. Dunlap's find was the fourth-largest diamond found in 2006 at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro. In all, 486 diamonds have been found at the park this year.

Dunlap found the gem Sunday while looking near a Bois d'Arc tree on the park's 37.5-acre search field. He said he felt certain the shiny stone was a diamond when he picked it up off the ground. Dunlap has visited the park about a dozen times but this was his first diamond find.

In March, a state trooper from Nowata, Okla., unearthed the 4.21 yellow Okie Dokie Diamond. In September, a Point, Texas, couple found the 6.35-carat brown Roden Diamond. The following month, a visitor from Ripon, Wis., found the 5.47-carat yellow Sunshine Diamond.

The largest of the 25,000 diamonds found at the park since it became a state park in 1972 is the 16.37-carat Amarillo Starlight. A visitor from Texas found the white diamond in 1975.

Observations and Questions

I'm getting out my vacation map and plotting a route!

LOUISIANA... WE HARDLY KNEW YA...

2007-01-02T03:28:00.000-08:00

ell, hello 2007, not even a day old and already the horror stories that we'll have to deal with are spilling out all over. This one comes courtesy of scientists studying Louisiana's sinking coast says the land here is not just sinking, it's sliding ever so slowly into the Gulf of Mexico.

First we have California, slipping off the U.S. and people are rushing to buy border property in Utah... now people will be plunking down the dollars in Texas for beautiful beach property. As if I didn't have enough to worry about already.

While you're pondering the new outline of the United States, pity the poor airline employees ay O'Hare Airport in Chicago... a group of United Airlines employees swear they saw a mysterious, saucer-shaped craft hovering over O'Hare Airport last fall. The official reason at O'Hare? Yes, they drug out the old, tired weather balloon and/or weather phenomenon.

Observations and Questions

Well, we don't have poor, old Saddam to kick around anymore so we need to turn our attention somehwere... why not space and the oceans.

HAPPY NEW YEARS!!

2006-12-30T05:21:00.000-08:00

very year as the clock nears midnight on December 31st, the eyes of the world turn once more to the dazzling lights and bustling energy of Times Square.

Anticipation runs high. New Year's Eve at the symbolic center of New York City has become more than just a celebration - it's a global tradition.

The world holds its breath...and cheers as the clocks strike twelve. As the famous New Year's Eve Ball descends from the flagpole atop One Times Square, an estimated one million people in Times Square, millions nationwide and over a billion watching throughout the world are united in bidding a collective farewell to the departing year, and expressing our joy and hope for the year ahead.

And then it's onto South Philly for the annual New Year's Day parade featuring the Philadelphia Mummer's!

Happy New Year friends!! See you in 2007!

HOW BAD DO YOU HAVE TO GO?

2006-12-29T03:45:00.000-08:00

fellow blogger, gabalotgal sent this to me yesterday.

And since I have nothing to write about I thought I would steal the photos and put them on here for the day.

However the caption that came with the photos claim this is in my city of Houston. I don't think so... Take a look at the two pictures... especially the surroundings... they are in two completely different locations. Shrug

Observations and Questions

Now you already know the question I'm gonna ask: If you had to go real bad... would you?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1936 Mary Tyler Moore Brooklyn NY, actress (Mary Tyler Moore, Ordinary People). And in the death notices in 1890 Big Foot Sioux Indian chief, dies at Wounded Knee.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Gabon : President's Birthday
Texas : Admission Day (1945)
World : Ante-Pen-Ultimate Day

GUILTY... THAT'S THE WORD...

2006-12-27T00:37:00.000-08:00

ut, does it do any good whatsoever? Of course I am speaking about Saddam Hussein who was sentenced to death by hanging within 30 days from today.

When I was younger, I was 100% pro death penalty... gas chamber, electric chair, hanging, firing squad, pulling out fingernails... whichever got the job done. Now I ask myself constantly... is it working? Is the death penalty a deterrent? I honestly don't know. The purpose is to punish the guilty and set an example of what could happen if you take the same route in life. His death will not deter future terrorist by one ounce.

Which hurts him more... being put to death and it's over? Or giving him life in prison to languish? From what I've seen Iraq's prisons aren't quite as good as they are here in the US. Maybe we'd see him piled up like the other guys from the prison that's shut down.

What to do, what to do? Is it against the law over there to be laid out naked in a field, pour honey or some kind of donkey food on your privates and then have a donkey lick your privates until the fall off? And then pour vinegar over them to help heal them?

I wonder if it will be on TV as a January Special? You know, for sweeps month. I am pretty sure the actual hanging won't be on US television... but you'll surely be able to see it on the internet somewhere.

Any thoughts on this entire situation?

Observations and Questions

So... should Saddam be hung first or last to build suspense. AND... do you think he will even live to his execution date? He might commit suicide.

WELL... HAPPY INBETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR'S!!

2006-12-26T03:20:00.000-08:00

o, how did it go yesterday? I had a pretty quiet day, except for when my daughters came over for a few hours.

Usually the walkway in front of my living room window always has people walking back and forth... but yesterday, not one single soul walked past all day.

I get a chuckle out of people that think writing Xmas is blasphemy or something and make it a point to write out the whole word, Christmas. Little do they know that one of the original ways of spelling the word was actually Xmas.

Christmas is sometimes shortened to Xmas, an abbreviation that has a long history. In early Greek versions of the New Testament, the letter Χ (chi), is the first letter of Christ (Χριστός). Since the mid-sixteenth century Χ, or the similar Roman letter X, was used as an abbreviation for Christ.

Well, anyway, that's about all I can come up with this morning. I think all the over-celebrating from years long gone have drained my brain.

See y'all tomorrow with something better! (I hope).

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!!

2006-12-22T01:03:00.000-08:00

ow, it's here already. It just seems like it was almost 360 some days ago I was wishing you the same thing. I swear the older you get it comes faster and faster, doesn't it? And when you're a kid it never comes fast enough.

I know I usually put lights up or something on my blog for Christmas, but this year I have been extremely lazy, as y'all know. No matter how had I have tried, I can't get into the full spirit and I don't know why.... but that doesn't stop me from hoping your holidays are fun-filled and you enjoy every ounce of spirit!

I've looked at a zillion holiday graphics and can't find a single one that I like. Shrug.

But have a very Merry Christmas anyway!!

AAAARRGGGHHHH!!!

2006-12-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

r however you spell it! Early this morning I decided to take the plunge into the unknown... Yes, I made the decision to switch over to the magical and new Blogger.

In the process I wrote out a sheet telling my survivors what I was doing and whom to blame. For 6 hours I couldn't access my blog because when I tried I would get a notice telling me I was in the middle of switching over to the new, wonderful and magical Blogger. BAH HUMBUG!

Here I am, just reading an email from Blogger telling me I couldn't switch because of one reason or another.

Ugh... no make that UGH... wait... ^&&^*%^&%## UGH

IT'S THE HOLIDAYS

2006-12-18T03:19:00.000-08:00

really have to blame it on something, so it may as well be the holidays. Normally, when I wake up the blog ideas are simply spilling out of my head. The problem is to pick one and write about it.

Lately I wake up and my head is empty. I can't even come up with a sucky post.

To wit:

Usually I decorate my front window with all the little houses and people I have bought. Stick lights inside the homes and it looks pretty neat. This year for some reason I set them all up on my dining room table with my little 3 foot tree in the middle. Then I turn on the Christmas lights and open the blinds for the whole world to look in and see my apartment. There's only one problem with this scenario...

I need to remember to wear clothes. Hey, I live alone and this helps with the washing and drying bill.

Observations and Questions

So how do you decorate your windows??

THE BIG DEBATE

2006-12-15T03:17:00.000-08:00

es, there is a huge debate going on in my head these days. I'm not sure exactly why either. I don't know if I need a new blog design or not. I kinda like the newspaper angle... however, I think it may have become boring.

The only problem is... I don't know what to do with it.

Observations and Questions

Any helpful ideas?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 0037 Nero Claudius Augustus Germanicus 5th emperor of Rome (54-68). And in the death notices in 1890 Sitting Bull Hunkpapa-Sioux chief (Little Big Horn), killed by US Army.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Esperanto League : Zamenhof Day (1859)
Malaysia : Hol Al-Marhom Sultan Ibrahim of Johore
Netherlands Antilles : Kingdom Day/Statute Day (1954)
Pakistan : Quaid-i-Azam's Birthday
US : Bill of Rights Day (1791)
World : Underdog Day

A HORSE IS A HORSE, OF COURSE, OF COURSE...

2006-12-13T03:51:00.000-08:00

nless, of course, you're talking about TV's famous Mr. Ed... The things I learn thanks to the internet. I have a question for you TV buffs out there... Remember the old TV show Mr. Ed? Where Mr. Ed and his owner Wilbur would chat and get into ridiculous situations? Of course you do...

Well, I have a little question for you: Mr. Ed was a horse... True or False?Everyone answered True, right? Guess what? Mr. Ed wasn't a horse at all!

That's right TV buffs... Mr. Ed wasn't a talking horse... he wasn't even a horse. Mr. Ed was a... drum roll please... Mr. Ed was a zebra!! Nonsense you say... you could plainly see he was a horse. Not so Kimosabe... Because TV was in black and white back then, the zebra's colors couldn't be seen and appeared all white.

An even bigger shock... Mr. Ed, not only was not a horse, but Mr. Ed was a female!

Other problems with black and white TV's back then... The difficulty in resolving closely integrated black and white images on non-color television receivers was one of the primary reasons NFL games were not regularly televised until the mid-1960s, when sales of color TV sets started to outstrip those of black-and-white models. When black-and-white television predominated in the nation's living rooms, football games were too often disrupted when players ran into the referees, whose black-and-white striped uniform tops made them nearly invisible to onlookers.

Likewise, Johnny Cash's famous televised live concert performance at California's Folsom Prison in January 1968 proved disastrous when several inmates wearing the traditional black and white prisoner's garb slipped unnoticed past guards, who had been provided only black and white monitors with which to view the proceedings.

Observations and Questions

Amazing, huh?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1925 Dick Van Dyke West Plains MO, actor (Rob Petrie-Dick Van Dyke Show). And in the death notices in 1979 Jon Hall actor (Ramor of the Jungle), dies at 66.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Malta : Republic Day
Upper Volta : National Day

RABBI: ONE CHRISTMAS TREE: ZERO

2006-12-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

od? You there God? It's me, little Denny Shane from Fishtown... yes, yes, the same little Denny Shane that colored in the 3 Wise Men's eyes one year because I thought it was funny to see them with black eyes. Sigh...

What is wrong with this world? I think you need to get on the ball up there and start smoting some people. Yes, I mean smote in the full Biblical sense.

Now you know me... I try to stay out of these religious battles and things. But really... did the Rabbi in Seatac, Washington really have to complain because he couldn't put a Menorah up next to the Christmas tree in the airport.

Then the airport took all the trees down.

Rabbi Elazar Bogomilsky, who made his request weeks ago, said he was appalled by the decision. "They've darkened the hall instead of turning the lights up," said Bogomilsky's lawyer, Harvey Grad. "There is a concern here that the Jewish community will be portrayed as the Grinch."

This is not a good situation God...

Oh, and by the way... those Wise Men DID look funny with their blackeyes.

Observations and Questions

Who will be the first smotee, step right up!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1915 Frank Sinatra Hoboken NJ, singer/actor (old blue eyes/chairman of board). And in the death notices in 1994 Stuart Allen Roosa astronaut (Apollo 14), dies of pancreatitis at 46.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

El Salvador: Day of the Indians
Kenya: Independence Day/Jamhuri Day (1963)
Pennsylvania: Ratification Day (1787)
World: National Ding-a-ling Day

IS IT MONDAY, ALREADY?

2006-12-11T01:04:00.000-08:00

ello everyone and welcome back from your weekend! I hope y'all had a great time, doing whatever y'all do on the weekends! I spent my weekend trying to decide if I wanted to decorate my windows for Christmas. Par for the course, here I am Monday morning and still deciding. Not only the windows, but the artificial Christmas tree also. I just don't have the spirit this year as I do in years past. Shrug.

I did watch The Mummy and The Mummy Returns on the SciFi channel. I keep watching these movies over and over whenever they are on TV. And I don't know why. I am also a major sucker for the originals of Frankenstein, Wolf Man, Dracula, The Thing and Creature From the Black Lagoon.

While watching The Mummy Returns, in the beginning, there was a battle between two ancient Egyptian armies... literally thousands on each side. Since both armies had on ancient Egyptian rags as clothing I wondered how they could tell each other apart when all mixed together in battle.

Egyptian clothing during battle. Oh my God... see what a really cool and totally boring life I lead?

Observations and Questions

Make me feel good and tell me what a totally boring weekend you had?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1946 Teri Garr Lakewood OH, actress (Mr Mom, Young Frankenstein). And in the death notices in 1993 Eliva "Elvire" Popesco Romanian/French actress (Le roi), dies at 99.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Geneva Switzerland: Scaling Day/Escalade (1602, 1816)
Indiana: Admission Day (1816)
Upper Volta: Republic Day (1958)

DENNY SHANE: MYTHBUSTER... KINDA SORTA

2006-12-08T02:17:00.000-08:00

ou know me, I like to keep my readers informed and be truthful all the time. It is my solemn duty to put the kabosh to this story:

A candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would be a witness, so he made the Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols from the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ.

He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.

The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. It could also represent the staff of the "Good Shepherd" with which He reaches down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray.

Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candymaker stained it with red stripes. He used three small stripes to show the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed. The large red stripe was for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have the promise of eternal life.

Unfortunately, the candy became known as a Candy Cane -- a meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But the meaning is still there for those who "have eyes to see and ears to hear." Every time you see a Candy Cane, remember the Wonder of Jesus and His Great Love that came down at Christmas, and that His Love remains the ultimate and dominant force in the universe today.

THE TRUTH
Soon after Europeans adopted the use of Christmas trees, they began making special decorations for them. Food items predominated, with cookies and candy heavily represented. That is when straight, white sticks of sugar candy came into use at Christmas, probably during the seventeenth century.

Tradition has it that some of these candies were put to use in Cologne Cathedral about 1670 while restless youngsters were attending ceremonies around the living creche. To keep them quiet, the choirmaster persuaded craftsmen to make sticks of candy bent at the end to represent shepherds' crooks, then he passed them out to boys and girls who came to the cathedral.

Observations and Questions

So what do you think? Is "The Truth", fact or fiction?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1943 Jim Morrison Melbourne FL, singer (Doors) is he really dead?. And in the death notices in 1587 Mary Queen of Scots (1560-1587), executed.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Guam : Lady of Camarin Day
Japan : Enlightenment of the Buddha
Spain, Panama, Canal Zone : Mother's Day
Spain : School Reunion Day
Uruguay : Beaches Day/Family Day

AS A SEINFELD FAN, I JUST COULDN'T PASS THIS UP...

2006-12-06T00:13:00.000-08:00

his is what I love about our country and people. No matter how serious a situation we can make fun of it. No matter how you feel about the "Kramer Incident", this has got to make you chuckle... And God knows we need more chuckles in this world.

Observations and Questions

What's on yer mind today?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1942 Len Barry [Leonard Borisoff] Philadelphia PA, rocker (Bristol Stomp). And in the death notices in 1988 Roy Orbison, US Rock singer, (Pretty Woman, Only the Lonely), dies of a massive heart attack at 52.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bahrain: Ruler's Ascension Day
Ecuador: Day of Quito (1534)
Finland: Independence Day (1917)

JACKSON MAKES HEADLINES... AGAIN

2006-12-05T02:31:00.000-08:00

ell yes, MJ made headlines again today as he drove around Dubai searching for Chicken Wings. Yes, I know... you wonder how my spies come up with these incredible stories.

Jackson appears thin, but not necessarily frail, as befitting one who has been staying at royal digs in the neighboring Persian Gulf nation of Bahrain since late June. "We went there because he [Jackson] wanted to eat Buffalo wings," Mohammed Bin Sulayem, a rally-car driver who helped act as the entertainer's tour guide, told the wire service.

The Hard Rock Cafe in Dubai serves chicken, or Buffalo, wings in three varieties: Classic Rock (with medium dipping sauce), Tangy Bar-B-Que (barbecue) and Heavy Metal (hot). It was not clear which Jackson sampled.

In comparison

Just in case you are interested... yesterday for breakfast I had one bagel with butter. For lunch I enjoyed the last of my fresh turkey. Also on my sandwich was tomato, mayo, jewish pickle and onion. For dinner I succumbed to a Superman pizza from Papa John's. I thought it pretty good actually.

Observations and Questions

What was on your menu?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1839 George Armstrong Custer Major General (Union volunteers, of Little Big Horn fame). And in the death notices in 1791 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart composer, dies in Vienna, Austria, at 35.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Beirut Lebanon : Arbor Day
Haiti : Discovery Day (1492)
Netherlands : St Nicholas Eve
Thailand : King's Birthday
USSR : Constitution Day (1936)

WELCOME TO DISH, TEXAS

2006-12-04T02:43:00.000-08:00

ormerly known as Clark, Texas. Population 89. Well, we have stadiums' changing their names to corporate sponsors, etc. It was only a matter of time before a town would do it.

The little hamlet of Clark, Texas was offered free Dish Network service for 5 years, the whole taco, IF they did one thing. Change the name of their town to Dish.

So the townspeople got together and all agreed to change the town name to Dish in return for free service for 5 years. I know for sure they do lose the free dish deal at the end of the period. What I do not know is if they can go back to Clark, Texas.

Is this the wave of the future?

Observations and Questions

If you could change the name of your present town... what would it be?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1934 Wink [Winston Conrad] Martindale Jackson TN, TV host (Tic-Tac-Dough, Can You Top This). And in the death notices in 1993 Frank V Zappa US music/composer (Mothers of Invention), dies at 52.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Mexico: Day of the Artisans
Tonga: Proclamation Day

HELP! I AM CONFUSED AND BEFUDDLED

2006-12-01T02:51:00.000-08:00

es, confused and befuddled. I am not sure which I am more, confused or befuddled. But I am.

Has anyone changed over to the new version of Blogger? I keep trying and get this message from Blogger: Thanks for your interest in the new Blogger in beta! Unfortunately, we cannot switch your Blogger account at this time, because one or more of your blogs cannot be moved. Please see our help article for more information.

I only have ONE blog and this is it! Now, what I did do was copy my present Template, open a new Blogger account and then pasted it into the new deal... no problems. Why? Why now and not before. The problem is that I had to come up with a new blog address. The only thing I lost is all of my back postings, nothing else. Shrug

Observations and Questions

Any help? answers? anything?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1945 Bette Midler Aiea HI, singer (Wind Beneath My Wings, Do You Want to Dance?)/actress (Beaches, First Wives Club). And in the death notices in 1980 Sam Levene actor (Purple Heart, Designing Women), dies at 75.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Azores, Portugal : Independence Day (1640)
Cape Verde : Restoration Day (1968)
Central African Republic : Republic Day (1958)
Iceland : Independence Day (1918)
Liberia : Matilda Newport Day (1822)
Portuguese Guiana : Mocidale Day/Youth Day
Romania : National Day

OY VEY! WHAT A KETTLE OF GEFILTE FISH WE HAVE NOW

2006-11-30T03:25:00.000-08:00

irst we had Mel Gibson muttering anti-Semetic statements upon his drunken arrest a few months back. Now poor, funnyman Michael Richards in under attack.

When Michael Richards was accused of hurling anti-Semitic remarks at a comedy club audience, his publicist explained the comedian was Jewish, in theory inoculating the under-fire actor from further charges of bigotry.

There was one problem, though: Richards was not, and is not, Jewish.

To make matters worse, in my humble opinion, Richards goes on the Jesse Jackson radio show to apologize once more. I think Mel still has him beat for apologizing... 53 to 49. Where does slamming end and comedy begin anymore?

I can remember watching Jackie Gleason, Red Skelton and Milton Berle on TV and I'd be howling in laughter at their stupid jokes... none of which were defamitory towards anyone. Now it seems every commedian had to be on stage making fun at different religions, or peppered ethnic slurs. Just tune into Def Comedy and see the beating white people take from black commedians. Where's Jesse then? I don't know.

Well, let me leave y'all with a favorite of mine... there was a priest, a minister and gulp, a rabbi in a rowboat.....

Observations and Questions

Your opinion?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1031 Davey Jones rocker (Monkees-Daydream Believer, Last Train To Clarksville, I'm A Believer). And in the death notices in 30 BC Cleopatra, Egyptian queen commits suicide. Sigh.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Barbados: Independence Day (1966)
Benin: National Day
Iran: Qadir Khom Festival
Philippines: Bonifacio Day/Heroes' Day (1863)
Yemen PDR: Independence Day (1967)

YES, FINALLY SOMETHING THAT IS TRUE

2006-11-29T03:19:00.000-08:00

ar be it from me to believe in such things, but this hit the nail right on the head. I am everything that it says I am. Except for handsome and the life of the party... it forgot those traits.

I tried it with my own personal Tarot cards at home here... I keep turning up The Devil card... I like this computer generated one a whole lot more!

You are The Hierophant

Divine Wisdom. Manifestation. Explanation. Teaching.

All things relating to education, patience, help from superiors. The Hierophant is often considered to be a Guardian Angel.

The Hierophant's purpose is to bring the spiritual down to Earth. Where the High Priestess between her two pillars deals with realms beyond this Earth, the Hierophant (or High Priest) deals with worldly problems. He is well suited to do this because he strives to create harmony and peace in the midst of a crisis. The Hierophant's only problem is that he can be stubborn and hidebound. At his best, he is wise and soothing, at his worst, he is an unbending traditionalist.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Observations and Questions

wWhat card are you? Take the short test and come back and tell me.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1961 Kim Delaney Philadelphia PA, actress (All My Children, Tour of Duty). And in the death notices in 1924 Giacomo Puccini Italian composer, dies in Brussels.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Albania: Liberation Day (1944)
Liberia: President Tubman's Birthday
UN: International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian People
Yugoslavia: Proclamation Day of Socialist Federal Republic

PICTURES THAT MADE ME CHUCKLE

2006-11-28T01:12:00.000-08:00

very once in awhile I get an email with photos that make me laugh. Yesterday my cousin sent me a few. I picked out a few that might make you giggle a little.

If this ladies car is equipped with airbags, I don't think they would open properly for some reason.

I really think I would just pee over the wall.

Obviously my piggy bank at the end of the month.

I'm not even sure I have a comment for this one.

Observations and Questions

Open mic day... jump right in.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1628 John Bunyan England, cleric/author (Pilgrim's Progress). And in the death notices in 1939 James A Naismith creator of basketball, dies at 78.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Albania : Independence Day (1912)
Chad, Burundi : Republic Day (1966)
Mauritius : Independence Day (1960)
Panama, Canal Zone : Independence Day
UAE : Accession of the Ruler of Abu Dhabi

I'VE DONE A BAAAAAAD THING

2006-11-27T02:12:00.000-08:00

can't keep it inside any longer... I did something bad yesterday... very bad.

I had a long chat with God. No, that's not the bad thing. I said: "okay God... we have a problem here and I need your help. As you know, I have no food and I am getting tired of eating crackers for dinner. Since my checks don't come until the 1st of the month which is days off I am considering something here and I need your help."

I explained that I could do nothing and slowly starve myself to death and meet him personally in a few days... OR... I could do the nasty deed... write a bad check!

Since I did not get an answer from up above, I took that as an okay to proceed with my plan. I looked at the calendar and figure out by the time I wrote the check and it cleared through the supermarkets bank and got to mine, I would have money in the bank. Off to the supermarket I went... happily walking up and down the aisles I bought everything I needed to get me through until this Friday. I even bought a turkey to compensate for the fact that I didn't have any money to buy one for Thanksgiving and had to eat a bologna sandwich instead.

So $65.87 later, I walked out smiling. Now I get home, put everything away and guess who I hear from? Yes God... NOW he tells me that if the check gets to the bank before my money there's a $30 bounced check fee and whatever the supermarket charges me for the bad check. I did the only thing I could....

I called my bank and said: "Hi, if I hypothetically and accidentally wrote a check for $65.87 this morning and it bounces what happens?" The nice lady said to let her look at my account. She said: "So you accidentally wrote a bad check for $65.87? How could you accidentally do that with only $1.45 in your account?"

I re-emphasized that this was a hypothetical situation. She replied that the bank would hypothetically pay the check and charge me a fee for being so nice. Cool I thought... then when they do, I would simply go to my branch and ask them to lift the charge from my account. That should work. Now I just have to sweat it out for a few days.

Observations and Questions

Have you ever purposely written a bad check? What happened?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1917 "Buffalo" Bob Smith Buffalo NY, TV host (Howdy Doody). And in the death notices in 1934 Baby Face Nelson shot by FBI agents.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Burma: National Day
Cuba: Martyrs' Day
Israel: Weizmann Day
Bern Switzerland: Onion Market Day-autumn festival

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-11-25T02:21:00.000-08:00

his week for the Photo Scavenger Hunt the topic is TIME. When I saw the title for this weeks' entries, the first thing that popped into my mind was cherry blossom time.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

When I saw the title for this weeks' entries, the first thing that popped into my mind was cherry blossom time. And where better to find cherry blossoms? In the nations' Capital. I was lucky enough to be there for the Cherry Blossom Festival and here is my entry for this week.

While rummaging through my photos I started looking at my European vacation pictures and I just knew I had several pics of Big Ben. I guess the world's official or unofficial timekeeper.

Observations and Questions

So what's cookin' for the weekend?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1971 Christine Applegate Hollywood, actress (Kelly-Married With Children). And in the death notices today in 1974 U Thant UN Secretary-General (1961-72), dies in NY of cancer at 65.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Surinam: Independence Day (1975)
Mass: John F Kennedy Day (1963)

LEFTOVERS

2006-11-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

othing like a nice leftover from Thanksgiving. Here's a few that I came across and couldn't pass up!

A woman who got it into her head that a fresh turkey produced a far superior meal to a frozen one made a trek out to a turkey farm to buy a live bird. But after returning home and looking square into the eyes of the living, breathing creature she'd just purchased, she just couldn't bring herself to kill it by wringing its neck or chopping off its head. Instead, she managed to put the turkey to sleep with chloroform and then began the process of dry-plucking it. Just as she finished removing the last of the feathers, however, the bird woke up.

The next-door neighbors responded to her shouts and arrived at her back door to find a woman being chased around her kitchen by an angry, naked turkey.

**********

Last year at Christmastime, my mom went to my sister's house for the traditional holiday feast. Knowing how gullible my sister is, my mom decided to play a trick. She told my sister that she needed something from the store and asked if my sister wouldn't mind going out to get it.

When my sister left the house, my mom took the turkey out of the oven, removed the stuffing, stuffed a Cornish hen, and inserted it into the turkey, then re-stuffed the turkey.

She then placed the bird(s) back into the oven.

When it was time for dinner, my sister pulled the turkey out of the oven and proceeded to remove the stuffing. When her serving spoon hit something, she reached in and pulled out the little bird.

With a look of total shock on her face, my mother exclaimed, 'Barbara, you've cooked a pregnant bird!'

At the reality of this horrifying news, my sister started to cry hysterically. It took the entire family almost two hours to convince her that turkeys lay eggs!

Yes, my sister is a BLONDE.

*******

A young woman is preparing her first thanksgiving dinner. As she gets everything ready for Thanksgiving day, she very sternly reminds herself to let the turkey finish thawing in the sink overnight. She puts it in and places the dishrack over the top of the bird. Her husband walks into the kitchen and sees this.

"Why are you doing that?" he asks.

"My mom always did that to help the turkey thaw," she told him.

The next day Mom calls to see how everything is going.

"Fine, Ma. I have everything ready to go in the oven. I even remembered to put the rack over the turkey last night."

This seemed to confuse her mother a bit. "What are you talking about?" she asked.

"Oh, I remember you always put the dish rack over the turkey when it was thawing in the sink," she said.

There was a pause on the end of the line. "Yes, but honey, we had cats!"

*********
And finally...

In this respect, they are as bad as "this old boy down home." His wife sent him to the store for a ham. After he bought it, she asked him why he didn't have the butcher cut off the end of the ham. "This old boy" asked his wife why she wanted the end cut off. She replied that her mother had always done it that way and that was reason enough for her. Since the wife's mother was visiting, they asked her why she always cut off the end of the ham. Mother replied that this was the way her mother did it; Mother, daughter and "this old boy" then decided to call grandmother and solve this three-generation mystery. Grandmother promptly replied that she cut the end of the ham because her roaster was too small to cook it in one piece.

Observations and Questions

How did your day go yesterday?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1864 Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec France, painter (At the Moulin Rouge). And in the death notices in 1963 Lee Harvey Oswald JFK's assassinator shot dead by Jack Ruby.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Zaire: New Regime Anniversary
1703 1st Lutheran pastor ordained in America, Justus Falckner at Philadelphia
1963 1st live murder on TV-Jack Ruby shoots Lee Harvey Oswald

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2006-11-23T03:37:00.000-08:00

ven if you don't celebrate it where you live...

Have a great day and you know what happens if you over eat today!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1887 Boris Karloff [William H Pratt], Dulwich England, actor (Frankenstein). And in the death notices in 1991 Freddie Mercury lead singer of Queen, dies of aids at 46.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Japan : Labor Day/Thanksgiving
Maryland : Repudiation Day (1765)
US : Thanksgiving

GOBBLE, GOBBLE........CHOP

2006-11-22T02:31:00.000-08:00

ep, the sound heard 'round the US today in preparation for tomorrows' feast. Tomorrow signals the official start to the 2006 Christmas season... even though some shop owners started back the day after Halloween.

It's funny how time changes some things. In earlier years when I was married, both times, it was always a huge rush... running around getting showered and dressed heading out to some relatives house for turkey dinner... or everyone coming to our house. Now it's simply me and everyone else is still running around. I guess I hated it then but sure miss it all now.

Funny how many people wish they could go back and do it all over again. There's a TV commercial for something and the 65 year old woman proclaims she wouldn't like to be younger because she's loving her life right now. Of course she wouldn't go back... what kinda drugs is she taking? I'd go back in a heartbeat, and do many, MANY things all over again.

I suppose I should be thankful that I am still alive to look back over those years. I'm pretty sure that the biggest thing I should be thankful for is the fact that I am still here after the heart attack and ensuing strokes, to be able and look back and be thankful. God's keeping me here for a reason. I don't think writing a blog counts but you never know with God... He can have a funny sense of humor sometimes.

Observations and Questions

So what's on your drawing board for tomorrow?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1899 Hoagy Carmichael Bloomington IN, actor/songwriter (Stardust). And in the death notices in 1941 1963 John F Kennedy 35th U.S. President, shot dead in Dallas, Texas (by Lee Harvey Oswald ??).

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Guinea : Portugese Aggression Anniversary
Lebanon : Independence Day (1943)
Bern Switzerland : Onion Market Day-Autumn Festival
Arab : Id ai-Adha

Ok, I readily admit I didn't have a clue what Id ai-Ahda was, so I looked it up...

Id al'Adha (or Eid Al-Adha) is the "Feast of the Sacrifice", and is the second main celebration of Islam. It takes place on the tenth day of the twelfth and last month of the Islamic calendar and celebrates Abraham's (in Arabic, Ibrahim) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. This is also the time when Muslims make their annual pilgrimage, or the Hajj, to Makkah in Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad called Eid Al-Adha the best day of the year, since it is the last and biggest day of the annual Hajj, or pilgrimage, to Makkah, Saudi Arabia. (Please note correct spelling; older sources may still use "Mecca".)

The Hajj, or Pilgrimage, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and all able believers are expected to perform it at least once in their lifetime. Makkah is the city where the Ka'aba is located. The Ka'aba was built by Abraham as a house of worship and today is best identified as an empty cube-shaped structure draped in black silk. It is the Ka'aba toward which Muslims face and pray five times a day. It stands as a symbol of the unity of mankind and the oneness in God.

WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER??

2006-11-21T03:18:00.000-08:00

e've all seen Lindsey Wagner selling those sleep number beds, right? I am so glad at least here in Houston that they have stopped that commercial... it was longer than War and Peace...

I have to laugh at the new one they have... where people tell of there personal enjoyment with their new sleep number bed. However, someone needs to be the editor of these commercials. There is one girl that claims, since sleeping on a sleep number bed, she now is dreaming again... ummm honey, the rule is... you are not sleeping soundly if you can remember your dreams when you wake up... I think you need a new bed.

Then there's the lady who claims she hasn't slept well in over 30 years on her old, lumpy mattress and bed... couldn't sleep through the night,kept waking up. She went and bought a new sleep number bed. And miraculously, the very first night she stopped turning and tossing and for the first time in 30 years she actually slept through the night. Oh come on lady...

Observations and Questions

Ok, Seriously.. what kind of bed do you have? And don't you need a Sleep Number Bed?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1937 Marlo Thomas Detroit MI, actress,[Mrs Phil Donahue](That Girl!, Jenny). And in the death notices in 1941 Juanita Spellini first woman executed in California. Congrats there Juanita.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

North Carolina: Ratification Day (1789)
1946 Harry Truman becomes 1st US President to travel in a submerged sub.
1959 Jack Benny (violin) & Richard Nixon (piano) play their famed duet.

YOU GOTS LOTS OF CATCHING UP TO DO LUCY...

2006-11-20T02:37:00.000-08:00

ucy and I both it seems. It just seems as if I've been walking around in a fog all last week and I don't know why either. My medications haven't changed so it's not that. I've been this way since I had that tooth pulled... Oh My God!! You think that was the central nervous system for my brain in there?

Anyway, I am feeling much better today... so hopfully I will begin to even comment on your comments.

What's been happening?

Let's see... remember last week when I wrote about OJ and his TV special? The Goldman's put up their own website/blog and you can sign a petition there or get the address of Fox and the book publisher to air your views. Check it out if you want... www.dontpayoj.com

I was watching a special on Thanksgiving yesterday on TV and I found out something I never knew... The people that came over on the Mayflower banned Christmas! Yep, they did away with it and instead wanted Thanksgiving to be a huge religious day. As time went on though the people preferred Thanksgiving to also include big meals and religion was kinda sorta pushed to the side.

Tom and Katie finally made it legal. Puke.

WARNING! Thinking about vacationing in India this year? Be forewarned! "The signs are still ominous," Ashok Alexander, the director of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's $258-million Indian HIV-prevention project, told Reuters in an interview.

He said the rising prevalence of HIV in more than 100 districts in which the foundation operates showed that a decade of government efforts had not slowed the virus, which is now estimated to have infected 5.7 million Indians.

Okay, I think that's enough to chew on for a Monday morning while you enjoy coffee or tea.

Observations and Questions

Your comments will be answered today... so get crackin'

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1620 Peregrine White son of William & Susanna White, born aboard Mayflower. And in the death notices in 1910 Leo Tolstoy Russia, author (Anna Karenina), dies at 82.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Mexico : Revolution Day (1910)
World : Rights of the Child Day
US : National Children's Book Week Begins

THANK YOU...

2006-11-19T03:32:00.000-08:00

esterday someone mentioned that I haven't been answering the comments y'all are leaving. I know I haven't and I'm sorry about that.

I simply haven't been feeling well lately. I am however feeling better today and I promise, I will be back to normal (whatever that is) on Monday with a brand new posting!

Thanks for sticking in there with me!

GAS STATION, DOCTOR'S OFFICE AND GROCERY STORE

2006-11-17T04:15:00.000-08:00

hat do the three things listed above all have in common? Well, with gas prices the way they are... the things above are the only 3 places I can go... then it repeats over again.

Yesterday I changed all of that. Yep, I traded in my Chevy Blazer. Originally I only went to "look", but you know how that goes. I even resorted to limping a bit more than usual with my walker thing. Did it do me any good? Of course not.

After all was said and done, I bought a new Ford Taurus, pictured below. It's very nice and cozy compared to the SUV.

Observations and Questions

Whatever...

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1919 Hershy Kay Philadelphia PA, composer/arranger (Olympic Hymn). And in the death notices in 1917 Auguste Rodin sculptor, dies in Meudon, France. (The Thinker).

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Zaire: Army Day
US: National Children's Book Week Begins - - - - - ( Monday )

OJ SIMPSON: HERE'S HOW I WOULD HAVE DONE IT

2006-11-16T02:21:00.000-08:00

nce again, just when I am pretty sure I've seen it all, along comes something that floors me. O.J. Simpson has written a book and Fox Television is airing a "special" with O.J. entitled, "If I had Done It"

The special has O.J. talking about if he had committed the murders, how he would have done it. I am totally flabbergasted.

Is this unbelievable or what? This guy has got to have the biggest set of cajones I have ever seen. There are tons of sources nationwide protesting the showing of the TV show and encouraging people not to watch it and to let Fox know why they're not watching it.

Observations and Questions

Will you watch it? Me? Sigh... yes I am one of the spineless whatevers and I'll be watching it.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 42 -BC- Tiberius Cesar 2nd Roman emperor (14-37 AD). And in the death notices in 1960 Clark Gable dies at 59.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Oklahoma: Admission Day (1907)
US: National Children's Book Week Begins
West Germany: Repantance Day

PRESENTING THE 2006 STELLA AWARDS

2006-11-15T02:49:00.000-08:00

s you know, every year we are presented with the Annual Stella Awards. Here are this years' winners.

Annual Stella Awards

The Stella's are named after 81-year-old Stella Liebeck who spilled coffee on herself and successfully sued McDonalds. That case inspired the Stella Awards for the most frivolous successful lawsuits in the United States.

6th place
19-year-old Carl Truman of Los Angeles, California, won $74,000 & medical expenses when his neighbor ran over his hand with a Honda Accord. Mr. Truman apparently did not notice there was someone at the wheel of the car when he was trying to steal the hubcaps.

5th place
Terrence Dickson of Bristol, Pennsylvania, was leaving a house he had just finished robbing by way of the garage. He was not able to get the garage door to go up since the automatic door opener was malfunctioning. He could not reenter the house because the door connecting the house and garage locked when he pulled it shut. The family was on vacation and Mr. Dickson found himself locked in the garage for 8 days. He subsisted on a case of Pepsi he found and a large bag of dry dog food. He sued the house owners insurance claiming the situation caused him undue mental anguish. The jury agreed to the tune of $500,000.

4th place
Jerry Williams of Little Rock, Arkansas, was awarded $14,500 and medical expenses after being bitten on the buttocks by his next door neighbor's Beagle dog. The Beagle was on a chain in its owner's fenced yard. The award was less than sought because the jury felt the dog might have been a little provoked at the time, as Mr. Williams who had climbed over the fence into the yard, was shooting it repeatedly with a pellet gun.

3rd place
A Philadelphia restaurant was ordered to pay Amber Carson of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, $113,500, after she slipped on a soft drink and broke her coccyx (tailbone). The beverage was on the floor because Ms. Carson had thrown it at her boyfriend 30 seconds earlier during an argument.

2nd place
Kara Walton of Claymont, Delaware, sued the owner of a night club in a neighboring city when she fell from the bathroom window to the floor and knocked out two of her front teeth. This occurred whilst Ms. Walton was trying to crawl through the window in the ladies room to avoid paying the $3.50 cover charge. She was awarded $12,000 &dental expenses.

1st place
This year's runaway winner was Mr. Merv Grazinski of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mr. Grazinski purchased a brand new Winnebago Motor Home. On his trip home from an OU football game, having driven onto the freeway, he set the cruise control at 70 mph and calmly left the drivers seat to go into the back and make himself a cup of coffee. Not surprisingly, the RV left the freeway, crashed & then overturned. Mr. Grazinski sued Winnebago for not advising him, by reading the owner's manual, that he actually could not do this. The jury awarded him $1,750,000 plus a new Winnebago Motor Home. The company actually changed their manuals on the basis of this suit just in case there were any other complete morons buying their recreation vehicles.

Observations and Questions

In case you don't know... the Annual Stella Awards are completely fictional.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1708 William Pitt the Elder (Whig) UK PM (1756-61, 66-68) `Great Commoner'. And in the death notices in 1984 Baby Fae who received a baboon's heart, dies at California medical center.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Belgium : King's Day
Brazil : Republic Day (1889)
Japan : 7-5-3 Festival Day
West Germany : Repentance Day

I SEE GHOSTS, NO I DON'T

2006-11-14T02:21:00.000-08:00

as anyone watched either Ghost Hunters on the SciFi channel or Derek Acorah on Travel Channel's Most Haunted? First, I guess I should say I do believe in Ghosts for a lot of reasons.

I started out watching both of these shows every week. The premise of Ghost Hunters is that there is no such thing as a ghost. They go around to all of these supposed haunted places, filming and debunking that the place has any ghost. Pretty much everywhere they go, even to the Murtles Plantation in the Carolinas. The Murtles I believe is labeled the most haunted place in America. After spending 6 hours there, they concluded that the Murtles was not haunted. Why? Because they didn't see any ghost.

The best episode is when they went to California and visited the Queen Mary, another place reported to be over-run with spirits. Again, they found nothing... thereby bolstering their claim that there are no ghost.

Enter Derek Acorah and group. Man, the ghost were coming out of the woodwork. One of the most famous ghost of the ship is a little girl that was drowned in the swimming pool and supposedly appears regularly there. Ghost Hunters found nothing. Derek Ancorah and company found her right where she was supposed to be.

Obviously someone is lying here. See where I am going here?

Observations and Questions

So... are there ghost or not?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1840 Claude Monet France, impressionist (Water Lilies). And in the death notices in 565 Justinian, Roman emperor, dies at 82.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Cayman Islands: Remembrance Day
English commonwealth: Prince Charles' Birthday (1948)
Jordan: King's Birthday (1935)

WELCOME TO PART 6 OF THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-11-12T05:21:00.000-08:00

kay, this one isn't so much a brain teaser as it is a little story. The painting below entitled "The Gross Clinic" by Thomas Eakins has hung in the Thomas Jefferson University for 125 years. Everyone who has entered TJU knows the painting well. It actually is a Philadelphia icon. Eakins painted it in Philly and in 1875 the Jefferson alumni bought it for $200.

"The Gross Clinic is one of the great American masterpieces and its resonance in Philadelphia is incredibly profound," said Anne d'Harnoncourt, director and chief executive officer of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. "With its drama and force of character, it sets the tone for Eakins' entire career. His art is inextricably bound to Philadelphia, its people and its landscape. And what is really powerful is that his presence and influence are still so extraordinary here nearly a century after he died."

So why am I presenting this painting today? Remember that the alumni bought it for $200 in 1875. Today Thomas Jefferson University is selling it to a partnership of the National Gallery of Art in Washington and a new museum planned by Wal-Mart heirs in Arkansas.

The price tag? A mere $68 million dollars. A testament to present day greed. I am going on record protesting the sale.

The deal gives Philadelphia cultural and governmental institutions 45 days to match the price; failure to do so will see the painting taken down from the walls of Jefferson's Eakins Gallery on Locust Street and shipped from its only home.

The culprit? Wal-Mart heiress Alice B. Walton (net worth of $18 billion, according to Forbes magazine).

Another reason I refuse to shop there.

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-11-11T00:54:00.000-08:00

his week for the Photo Scavenger Hunt the topic is Growth. I searched and searched my albums... ok, I cheated a little. I did not take the first picture... and actually, I don't have a clue who did take it. I am assuming mom or dad. Thanks guys, totally embarrassing. No wait, it just dawned on me... this is the only way I can show my entirely nude body on my blog! Enjoy it girls.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

Aaawwww... how cute. I would guess this was taken somewhere around June, 19?? Since I am divorced girls... this butt could be yours!

And look at me now! Wow! I bet you girls are sorry now that you didn't wait for me, huh?

Observations and Questions

What I wouldn't do to go back to June 1947, ooppps I meant 19??

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1896 Charles "Lucky" Luciano Sicily, NYC Mafia gangster. And in the death notices today in 1984 Rev Martin Luther King Sr dies in Atlanta at 84.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Angola : Independence Day (1975)
Belgium, France, French countries : Armistice Day
Bhutan : King's Birthday
Canada : Remembrance Day-Veterans Day, 11th Hr-11th Day-11th Month
Colombia : Cartagena Day (1811)
Maldives : Republic Day (1968)
Rhodesia : Independence Day (1965)
St Maarten : Concordia Day
US : Veterans Day
Washington : Admission Day (1889)

WHAT THE HELL???

2006-11-10T03:35:00.000-08:00

he other day someone sent me a short email with the usual religious theme that for some reason I am always getting. You know the ones... send to 4,000 people in the next hour or else.

Here is what I sent:

Dear God:

Why didn't you save the school children at ?.

Moses Lake, Washington 2/2/96
Bethel, Alaska 2/19/97
Pearl, Mississippi 10/1/97
West Paducah, Kentucky 12/1/97
Stamp, Arkansas 12/15/97
Jonesboro, Arkansas 3/24/ 98
Edinboro, Pennsylvania 4/24/98
Fayetteville, Tennessee 5/19/98
Springfield, Oregon 5/21/98
Richmond, Virginia 6/15/98

Littleton, Colorado 4/20/99
Taber, Alberta, Canada 5/28/99
Conyers, Georgia 5/20/99
Deming, New Mexico 11/19/99
Fort Gibson, Oklahoma 12/6/99
Santee, California 3/ 5/01 and
El Cajon, California 3/22/01?

Sincerely,

Concerned Student

-----------------------------------------------------

Reply:

Dear Concerned Student:

I am not allowed in schools.

Sincerely,

God

Ok, cute I suppose, but after I sent it I got the following email:

From: administrator@ylpvm37.prodigy.net Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert

To: denny609@sbcglobal.net

Subject: Bobit detected prohibited content in a message sent from your address (SYM:15970903621905835040)

Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2006 04:42:40 -0800

And it contained about 18 email addresses to where I sent the above.

Observations and Questions

Like I said... what the hell? What is wrong?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1925 Richard Burton South Wales, actor (Cleopatra, Virginia Woolf). And in the death notices in 1865 Henry Wirzm, Confederate prison supt. executed for excessive cruelty.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

India: Guru Nanak's Day-1st teacher of the Sikhs
Indonesia: Hero Day/Youth Day
Iran: Death of Iman Ali Day

I KNOW, I KNOW... I AM SO SORRY

2006-11-09T02:27:00.000-08:00

es, I know I haven't been around much but I do have an excuse. Honest! I've barely been able to post my daily blog offering and not much time to either comment or visit your blogs.

Here are my excuses:

1. Had to have top tooth pulled by dentist, Dr. Marque de Sade
2. Have abscessed tooth that needs to be pulled on bottom by same Dentist
3. Pretend hosital, with pretend doctors and nurses, I go to seems to
think I have a slipped disc that needs to be removed.
4. All of the above

Since I don't do things half way, #4, All of the Above is the correct answer. I am not a happy camper today nor have I been for a few days.

The space where the top tooth use to be hurts like hell. No wait, I meant HELL. I now am keeping Ambesol in business. The bottom tooth where the abscess apparently is located hurts like hell. Sorry, meant HELL. I am now financing Ambesol's plant in China.

My back is killing me. Excuse me, I meant KILLING ME. Ok, maybe I overdid that one, but since the gave me some kind of needle in my back, it only hurts A LOT now.

Seriously, I don't think I have enough strength to even complain about the Senate and House of Reps today. I am blaming all of my pain on them now. And to think, Nancy Pelosi is only a couple heartbeats away from being top gun. Ooowwww...

And the thoughts of Hillary... ouch, ouch... groan.

I hope I am back to normal tomorrow, and heavily sedated. Don't laugh, I want some mega-strength drugs here.

Observations and Questions

What's on your mind? Do you have any relics you could rub on your monitor while you're here?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1936 Mary Travers Louisville KY, folk singer (Peter Paul & Mary). And in the death notices in 1991 Yves Montand actor, dies at 70 from a heart attack.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Pakistan: Iqbal Day
Tunisia: Arbor Day/Tree Festival Day
Turks & Caicos Island: Peacemaker's Day

NOW IT'S TIME TO DELIVER

2006-11-08T01:10:00.000-08:00

ith two seats in the Senate to be confirmed, and it could go either way, the Dems took control of the House of Reps... and with that victory goes some interesting campaign rhetoric.

They all claimed that we needed to get out of Iraq immediately. Okay guys, can you give us a date? What? You're kidding? You promised... Oh well, I predict we'll still be there next year this time. If there is anything I learned in 20 years of politics it was that campaign rhetoric and actual accomplishments after an election are two vastly different things. Pre-election = promise them anything. Post-election = maybe they'll forget the promises.

Once new members of Congress actually get voted in and begin to see how things really work in Washington, it's a different story. Good intentions get slightly shifted to the back burners while the euphoria of being a Congressman or woman takes over and swells the head to enormous sizes... along with egos.

Observations and Questions

If you man or woman won yesterday... now is the time to begin to hold them to their promises... write and email them every week on those issues that you liked and the reason you voted for them. Don't allow them to slip into obscurity that is our Congress.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1951 Mary Hart Sioux Falls SD, TV hostess (Entertainment Tonight). And in the death notices in 1978 Norman Rockwell artist, dies in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, at 84.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Montana: Admission Day (1889)
Louvre in Paris, opens: 1793

WELL CRAP

2006-11-07T01:11:00.000-08:00

ere it is 3AM, Election Day in the U.S. and I don't have a clue as to who I am voting for in this election. Years ago it was so much easier when I was in politics... pull the straight ticket and be done with it. All over in 2 seconds.

Now that Saddam has been found guilty a few days before our election, the only thing better would have been if they could have hung him publicly a day before our election. Now THAT would have helped me make up my mind.

What to do, what to do? Do I cast my vote to continue on the road we've been on which ends up in the abyss? Or do I jump to the other party and take a different path to the same abyss? I hate election decisions... the only question is who will get us to the abyss faster. Do we want it to be painfully slow or amazingly fast?

I am so confused... do I vote for the people that will keep us looking for terrorist, keep us safe and stay in an unpopular war? Or should I vote for the people that will pull us out of war and thereby highlight the fact that we've lost over 1,000 men and women for nothing?

Well, it's now 3:23AM and I still have about 3.5 hours to make up my mind...

Observations and Questions

Whoever you vote for, just make sure you go and VOTE. If you don't, then the other guy wins!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1964 Dana Plato Maywood CA, actress (Kimberly-Diff'rent Strokes). And in the death notices in 1980 Steve McQueen Slater MO, actor, dies at 50.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Mexico: National Railway Memorial Day (1907)
USSR, Bulgaria, Hungary, Mongolia: October Revolution Day (1917)
United States: Election Day

WELCOME TO PART 5 OF THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-11-05T04:30:00.000-08:00

his weeks brain twister should be pretty easy. This is basically every answer wins.

Below we see Saddam Hussein, former President of Iraq. He was just sentenced as guilty and his punishment is death by hanging.

Your challenge this week? What is Saddam thinking?

Observations and Questions

You can do it, I have faith!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1911 Roy Rogers Cincinnati Ohio, cowboy (Happy Trails, Roy Rogers Show). And in the death notices in 1991 Fred MacMurray actor (My Three Sons), dies at 84.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

El Salvador: 1st Cry for Independence (1811)
England: Guy Fawkes Day
Sweden: All Saints Day
Virgin Islands: Liberty Day - ( Monday )

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-11-04T03:17:00.000-08:00

he subject this week is simply Windows. I looked all over the place for a picture of Windows and couldn't find any...

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

So, I did the next best thing. I went through my paintings... my personal painting that I have done over the years. I came across a kitchen scene with not one but two windows. I hope this still qualifies even though it's not a photograph.

Observations and Questions

Hey! I didn't say I was a GOOD artist. lol

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1879 Will Rogers Oologah Indian Territory (Oklahoma), humorist. And in the death notices today in 1984 Merie Earle actress (Maude-Waltons), dies of uremic poisoning at 95.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Italy : Unity Day (1945)/Victory of Vittorio Veneto (1866)
Oklahoma: Will Rogers Day (1879)
Panama, Panama Canal Zone: Flag Day
Tonga: Constitution Day (1970)
Virgin Islands: Liberty Day
Liberia: Thanksgiving Day
Denmark: Esbjerg Cup-World's largest ice skating championship

I AM NOT THE FATHER OF...

2006-11-03T02:54:00.000-08:00

nna Nicole Smith's baby. There I have said it and I am sticking to it... that's my story. I don't care what you may read in upcoming issues of the National Enquirer. First dealing with the whole inheritance thing... Now more trouble in the Bahamas.

She's sick and in the hospital... she's dealing with the birth of a new baby... the death of her son... ready to be kicked out of her house there but what a trooper huh? She just keep rolling along. What a gal.

Is It Over Yet?

As a former politician, I never thought I would say this but... I will be so glad when election day 2006 is finally over. I am so tired of the negative advertising.

I don't think I have seen one advertisement that honestly speaks to the candidates true qualifications. One is just as bad as the other. I do know what they say they are going to do... and then what they actually do once elected are dramatically different.

Observations and Questions

Do you honestly vote for the man or woman or do you vote straight party lines? Should we even not label candidates with a party affiliation?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1953 Dennis Miller Pittsburgh PA, comedian/TV host (SNL, Dennis Miller Show). And in the death notices in 1926 Annie Oakley dies.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Ecuador: Cuenca's Independence Day
Japan: Culture Day
Panama: Independence Day (1903)
Texas: Father of Texas Day (1793)
World: World Community Day (1945)
Dominica: National Day

WHEN ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

2006-11-02T03:02:00.000-08:00

ell, while I support our troops not just in the present war, but all over the world. I think enough is enough. I am downright tired of things. Now Iraqi President Jalal Talabani said on Thursday that U.S. troops should stay for up to three more years in Iraq to enable local authorities to build up their own security forces.

Ummm, excuse me there Mr. President Jalal Talabani.... bullshit.

Sure, keep our men and women there fighting and dying while you and your cabinet or whatever that sideshow is twiddles your fingers and act like a bunch of nutcases.

However, he said that "international terrorists" were still concentrating all their efforts in Iraq which meant the country needed outside help to defeat them.

"We need time. Not 20 years, but time. I personally can say that two to three years will be enough to build up our forces and say to our American friends 'Bye bye with thanks'," Talabani told a conference.

Quite frankly I am starting to think that while we initiated the new government, it's time for that new government to take over and run their own affairs. Let it rise or fall on your own merits. You've got a month. We want all our troops home for Christmas.

Observations and Questions

Comments? Pro or con?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1734 Daniel Boone frontiersman/explorer (US Hall of Fame-1915). And in the death notices in 1980 Edith Bunker dies on "All in the Family".

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Israel: Balfour Declaration Day (1917)
Mexico/Portugal: Dia de Muertos/Day of the Dead
North & South Dakota: Admission Day (1889)
Venezuela: Memorial Day
Liberia: Thanksgiving Day

SO.... HOW MANY BELLYACHES THIS MORNING?

2006-11-01T00:37:00.000-08:00

r worse yet, how many went through the kids bags and told the kids you were tasting the Hershey bars for safety purposes? Uh huh...

Well, not one single kid knocked on my door last night. None, zippo, nyet, zero. I could hear kids walking past my windows, but no knocks. I wonder if having the lights off in the living room deterred them? "No, no! Don't knock there... that crazy old Shane guy lives there!"

When I lived in Philly on Halloween you might have put a cardboard pumpkin in the window as a decoration but here in Houston people have orange Christmas lights up in the windows. Is that a fad where you live?

Observations and Questions

Do you do anything strange or out of the ordinary on Halloween?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1942 Larry Flynt magazine publisher (Hustler) . And in the death notices in 1947 Man O' War dies. Sniff...

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Algeria: Revolution Day (1954)
Antigua: State Day (1981)
Celtic: Samhain; beginning of year & most important holiday
San Marino: Commemoration of the Dead
Togo: Memorial Day
US: Author's Day
Vietnam: Revolution Day (1963)
Liberia: Thanksgiving Day

2006-10-31T00:34:00.000-08:00

r is it Merry Halloween? Anyway, today I am going to point out some things about two of my long, lost relatives. Yes, it's me bragging, once again, about my family history.

Of the three major people I am going to talk about today, I am related to two of them and possibly the third as well. Trust me, I can show you the charts.

First, did you know that Dracula and von Frankenstein actually met in person? Believe it or not they did. Von Frankenstein fought in a battle in which Dracula was leading his troops to protect his hometown. However, they met again in the literary sense many years later.

The first relative you all know well as Dracula. Always a pain in the ass at Thanksgiving when all the other relatives enjoyed a nice chianti, he had to be different.

His real name was Vlad Tepesch, better known as Vlad the Impaler of Romania. You know his story. Bram Stoker, the writer, created the fictional elements of Dracula based on real events in the life of Count Dracula. Even though he had never traveled to Transylvania he wove a story of true horror.

Frankenstein, was brought to life by 17 year old Mary Shelly. Even at her tender age she was known in literary circles as an excellent authoress. So much so, at one time she received a letter from Jacob Grimm. Yes, one of the brothers Grimm himself. He told her of a story about one Johann Konrad Dippel. Dipple wasn't the typical "crazed scientist" but I suppose he came very close. Ummmm he actually did experiment on dead bodies that he dug up from the local cemeteries. Being born in Castle Frankenstein probably didn't help him either as he tried to bring the bodies back to life. It's true, I swear it! (Below is the real Castle Frankenstein in Darmsdt, Germany)

Shelly was captured by this story and while traveling in Germany one summer she and her husband traveled to Darmstad, Germany to find Castle Frankenstein... which they did. It was during a vacation in Lake Geneva in Switzerland while visiting the poet Lord Byron. A horrendous storm came over the city and the party-goers were forced to retreat inside the villa. It was here that Byron decided to come up with his very of a parlor game of sorts. Byron's other guests sometimes read from a volume of ghost stories, thus, one evening, Byron challenged his guests to each write one themselves.

Mary's story, inspired by a dream, became Frankenstein. Shelly continued the writing of Frankenstein after she went home. Frankenstein was finished when she was 19 and published at the young age of 21.

Next on my list is dear old "Aunty Liz" better known to people as Erzebeth Bathory. We stopped inviting her to family gatherings when we discovered that our young, nubile female cousins were kinda disappearing. Shown below is home sweet home...

In order to improve her complexion and also to maintain her failing grasp on her youth and vitality, she slaughtered six hundred innocent young women from her tiny mountain principality... in... yep, you guessed it, Transylvania. Why does the goofy side of my family always come from Transylvania?

Anyway, her tastes were of a certain slant, and consequently she began to gather about herself (as her ample financial resources readily accommodated) persons of peculiar and sinister arts. These she welcomed into her presence, affording them commodious lodging and lavish attention to each of their most singular needs and interests. Among them were those who claimed to be witches, sorcerers, seers, wizards, alchemists, and others who practiced the most depraved deeds in league with the Devil and too painful to mention even in a story such as this. They taught her their crafts in intimate detail and she was enthralled. But learning such unspeakable things was not enough.

Erzebeth was not alone in her 'unusual' interests. Aware of Erzebeth's complex preoccupations, and amused by them, her aunt had introduced her also to the pleasures of flagellation (enacted upon desolate others of course), a taste Erzebeth quickly acquired. Equipped with her husband's heinous silver claws, she generously indulged herself, whiling away many lonely hours at the expense of forlorn Slav debtors from her own dungeons. The more shrill their screams and the more copious the blood, the more exquisite and orgasmic her amusement. She preferred to whip her 'subjects' on the front of their nude bodies rather than their backs, not only for the increased damage potential, but so that she could gleefully watch their faces contort in horror at their most grim and burning fate.

Her mood deteriorated markedly and one day, as she viciously struck a servant girl for a minor oversight, she drew blood when her pointed nails raked the girl's cheek. The wound was serious enough that some of the blood got onto Erzebeth's skin. Later, Erzebeth was quite sure that that part of her own body - where the girl's blood had dropped - looked fresher somehow; younger, brighter and more pliant.

Immediately she consulted her alchemists for their opinion on the phenomenon. They, of course, were enjoying her hospitality and did not wish to disappoint, so, fortunately, they did recall a case many many years before and in a distant place where the blood of a young virgin had caused a similar effect on an aged (but generous) personage of nobility and good grace.

With such clear evidence at hand, Erzebeth was convinced that here was a brilliant discovery; a method to restore and preserve her youthful glow forever, or at least until she got what she wanted. The advice of her 'beauty consultant,' a woman named Katarina, concurred that her clever realization was most surely sound.

Erzebeth reasoned that if a little was good, then a lot would be better: she firmly believed that if she bathed in the blood of young virgins -- and in the case of especially pretty ones, drank it -- she would be gloriously beautiful and strong once again.

For years, Erzebeth's trusted helper in her various secret pleasures had been Dorotta Szentes. Now with her, and other 'witches' to help carry the load, Erzebeth roamed the countryside by night, hunting for suitable virginal girls as raw material for her difficult quest.

When back in the castle, each batch of young girls would be hung, alive and naked, upside-down by chains wrapped around their ankles. Their throats would be slit and all of their blood drained for Erzebeth's bath, to be taken while the heat of their young bodies still remained in the thickening and sticky crimson pool.

And every now and then, a really lovely young girl would be obtained. As a special treat, Erzebeth would drink the child's blood: at first from a golden flask, but later, as her taste for it increased, directly from the stream, as the writhing and whimpering body hung from the rafters, turning pale.

Although she had held off her political foes, after five years of this enterprise Erzebeth at last began to realize that the blood of peasant girls was having little effect on the quality of her skin. Obviously such blood was defective and better blood was required.

In early 17th century Transylvania, parents of substantial position wished their daughters to be educated in the appropriate social graces and etiquettes, so that they might gain the 'right' connections when ripe. Here was an opportunity.

In 1609, Erzebeth established an academy in the castle, offering to take 25 girls at a time from proper families, and to correctly finish their educations. Indeed, their educations were finished.

Assisted by Dorotta Szentes (known also by the graceful diminutive "Dorka") these poor students were consumed in exactly the same beastly fashion as the anguished peasant girls who preceded them. This was too easy, and Erzebeth became careless in her actions for the first time in her dreadful career. During a frenzy of lust, four drained bodies were thrown off the walls of the castle.

By the final count, 600 girls had vanished; Erzebeth admitted nothing. Dorka and her witches were burned alive, but the Countess, by reason of her noble birth, could not be executed. Katarina was somehow seen as another victim, and was set free.

So, Erzebeth was damned to a death while alive. Sealed into a tiny closet of her castle -- and never let out -- she died four years later.

Erzebeth did not ever utter even a single word of regret, or remorse.

OK, SINCE TOMORROW IS HALLOWEEN

2006-10-30T01:58:00.000-08:00

nd I want to do a halloween blog, I've decided to cut short the contest. Plus I don't think anyone will get the puzzle. After looking at it, I've decided it might be a tad hard.

It is "The Gleaners" by Millet.

Oh shut up... that was easy. Now that I've told you, y'all are sitting there saying, "oh yeah, The Gleaners by Millet" I am pretty sure we learned about Millet and The Gleaners back in 4th grade at Nativity BVM School in Philly.

Painted in 1857, the original hangs in the Louvre in Paris.

Observations and Questions

I don't know what to say... Next week, I'll try and make it easier for y'all.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1945 Henry Winkler NYC, actor (Fonz-Happy Days, Night Shift). And in the death notices in 1893 Sir John Abbott PM of Canada (C) (1891-92), dies at 72.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

New Zealand: Labor Day-last Monday in October
1871 Phila Athletics beat Chicago for 1st Natl Assn baseball pennant

WELCOME TO PART 4 OF THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-10-29T02:13:00.000-08:00

es, this is Part IV of the ever popular First No Prize Contest. As you know, this is where I put a brain teaser up and you have to guess what it is.

Of course there is absolutely no prize for your endeavors other than having your name emblazened in red ink on the front page of the "News"

Now what we need here is the name of the painting. Extra points if you can also give me the artist. Spelling counts.

HINT: There is one piece showing that if spotted should give away the whole answer.

Observations and Questions

Now this is sooooooooooooooo easy a 5 year old could do it.

As normal the puzzle will run today, Sunday and tomorrow Monday with the answer on Tuesday's blog.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1955 William Gates billionaire CEO (Microsoft). And in the death notices in 900 Alfred the Great English monarch, dies.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Cuba: Loss of Major Camila Cienfuegas
Czechoslovakia: Foundation of the Republic Day (1918)
Greece, Cyprus: Ochi Day (1940)
US: Mother-in-Law's Day - - - - - ( Sunday )
New Zealand: Labor Day-last Monday in October - - - - - ( Monday )
US some states: Veterans Day - - - - - ( Monday )

CALM DOWN, PLEASE!

2006-10-28T04:58:00.000-07:00

LET YOUR FINGERS DO THE WALKING?

2006-10-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

ow well do you look at your phone book? This is an actual advertisement from the U.K. yellow pages. It remained that way for quite awhile until someone realized what was going on... lol

This is an advertisement from the yellow pages, until they realized that if you turned it upside down and covered the lady's head and the hand holding the glass, all was not as it seemed.

The telephone company has now taken this ad out because of the content.

Take a look at the first picture, and then the second picture (which is an inverted version of the first), watch as her face and the glass are covered Â and see what you get.

...

P.S. Where do people find the time to read the Yellow Pages UPSIDE DOWN??

Some critics have long maintained that companies and their advertising agencies often employ subliminal advertising to increase sales by concealing words and images (usually of a sexually suggestive nature) in their advertisements. The nature of "subliminal," of course, means that these alleged hidden persuaders are not obvious to the ordinary viewer and may require intense scrutiny or an unusual approach (such as viewing an image backwards, upside-down, or with a magnifying glass) to discern.

Observations and Questions

Ummmm, when was the last time you really, REALLY looked at your yellow pages?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1728 James Cook captain/explorer, discovered Sandwich Islands. And in the death notices in 1990 Xavier Cugart bandlander, dies from heart failure at 90.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Cuba: Discovery Day (1492)
Iran: Imam Reza's Birthday
St Vincent Islands: Statehood Day (1969)
US: Navy Day (1775)

I SIMPLY NEVER LIKED HER...

2006-10-26T02:10:00.000-07:00

ust who am I speaking about? I wouldn't even walk across the street to get a look at her. I've never liked her. Yes, folks I'm speaking about 64 year old Babs Streisand.

I came across her contract rider which outlines what the singer requires. Below is a snippet.

We will arrive in:

Thirteen 53 foot semi-tractors trailers FIFTY-THREE ?????
Four rental vans
Fourteen crew and band busses
One limo (For Babs)

The venue should provide:

Five complete living room sets, fabric covered, no vinyl
Five coffee tables
Ten end tables
Ten floor lamps (Torchiere type)
Thirty-Five banquet tables, 8x30
One hundred and fifty folding chairs
Two TV sets

What happened to the butt wiper?

Observations and Questions

So, do you have any stars you really love to hate?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1947 Jaclyn Smith Houston Tx, actress (Charlie's Angel, Nightkill). And in the death notices today in 901 King Alfred the Great, died.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Austria: National Day
Benin, Rwanda: Armed Forces Day
Iran: Birthday of HIM the Shahanshah
South Vietnam: Constitution & Republic Day (1955, 1956)
Switzerland: Flag Day

WHAT A WORLD CLASS JERK...

2006-10-25T02:58:00.000-07:00

ix foot ball players on the varsity team of Willis High School decided to give blood and be late for football practice. Pretty commendable if you ask me. We hear so much these days about the bad things kids do... it's about time we hear something good.

The only problem here is that the football coach, a supposed adult, threw the boys off the football team because they missed practice and gave blood instead. I had to read this article twice because I just knew I misread it. Unfortunately I didn't.

The football players said head coach Mack Malone kicked them off the team after he saw them giving blood at a school blood drive right before practice on Monday. "We were all ready for practice," player Jeff Chachem said. "We were going out to practice and all of our stuff was taken out of our lockers and we were told to go home, that we were done playing football."

Some of the players are seniors, and the final three games of the season were their last chance to try to secure a college scholarship.

"He overreacted. He wasn't using the thought process that he tries to teach his kids and thinking things through. It never was about giving blood. It was about coming to practice a little bit late," said Brian Zemlick, the Willis Independent School District superintendent.

No shit Dick Tracy.

Observations and Questions

I can't think of any questions. Unload your comments.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1967 Julia Roberts Smyma Georgia, actress (Mystic Pizza, Pretty Woman). And in the death notices in 1400 Geofrey Chaucer author, dies in London.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Taiwan: Restoration Day (1945)
Virgin Islands: Thanksgiving Day

AND THE WINNER IS...

2006-10-23T15:41:00.000-07:00

ell, I'm not sure. Maybe I should have a 1/2 winner situation. Many of you guessed correctly a to what the picture was depicting but failed to say who the people were in the painting.

A lot of you guessed "The Last Supper" and y'all were correct with Pam leading the way... Please see the full picture below.

The part you didn't get was that it was the characters of McDonald's. Hey, it's my contest, why can't you follow simple rules? The table was the give-a-way. Okay, maybe you knew it was the Last Supper, but come on... does the original have a Big Mac on the table? LOL

Observations and Questions

Thanks for playing! Should this be a weekly event?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1788 Sarah Josepha Hale author (Mary Had a Little Lamb). And in our death notices today we find my friend, in 1983 Jessica Savitch news anchor (NBC-TV), dies at 35.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

World, UN: United Nations Day/Dia de las Naciones Unidas
Zambia: Independence Day (1964)

WELCOME TO PART 3 OF THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-10-22T02:11:00.000-07:00

nce again I am happy to provide Part 3 of our First No Prize Contest. Since the first 2 parts went over so well, I thought I would continue it with a 3rd part.

This representation is so popular I couldn't show the entire picture because you would get it immediately. Therefore I proudly present "the snippet" entry in our contest.

This one is the easiest so far. Everyone will get it right away. Simply tell me what this snippet is... The answer is twofold... who the people are and what are they doing? That's it... 2 answers wins the glamorous prize, which is nothing.

As normal this exciting contest runs today, Sunday and ends Monday night. On Tuesday mornings blog, I will post the entire picture and the winners name.

Observations and Questions

Come on, you know what it is... Take a wild guess!! HINT: Use your WILDEST imagination.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

My first TRUE love... SIGH: Born this date in 1942 Annette Funicello, Utica NY, actress (Mickey Mouse Club). And in our death notices today in 1934 Charles "Pretty Boy" Floyd shot dead by FBI in Ohio.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

India, Mauritius, Singapore: Deepavali Day
Japan: Jidai Matsuri/Festival of the Eras (1895)
Puerto Rico: Veterans Day
Vatican City: National Day
US: Mother-in-Law's Day ( Sunday )
US some states: Veterans Day ( Monday )

YES, WE HAVE NO PICTURES TODAY

2006-10-21T04:23:00.000-07:00

oday is a good example why you should prepare. All week long I knew I needed to either find a picture in my album or take one of myself. I procrastinated all week. Even last night I thought to myself, "I'm sure I've got one." I believed that until I woke up this morning and began frantically looking through everything.

I found nothing. I thought of laying in bed, pretending to be asleep and take one. The logistics just weren't working out too well.

So now, here I am with no picture and because I just knew I could come up with something I didn't plan on an article either. I knew you would be coming today and I really wanted to have something good so you weren't wasting your time. Ummmm, sorry. LOL

I was even gonna pack a small bag today just in case the bomb threat was real since the Texans stadium is only a few miles from where I live. I planned on driving out I-10 to San Antonio and wait it out at the Alamo. Guess now I won't even be going there.

Observations and Questions

Hope you have more plans than I do for the weekend. You can tell me but please make them sound really boring so I don't think you have a better life than me.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1772 Samuel Taylor Coleridge England, poet (Rime of the Ancient Mariner). And in the death notices today we have in 1805 Adm Horatio Nelson dies in the Battle of Trafalgar.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

England: Trafalgar Day (1805)
Hondurous: Army Day (1956)
Hong Kong: Kite Flying Festival
Laos: Full Moon Holiday
Somali/Sudan: Revolution Day (1964)

BUT CAN I STILL SMOKE IN CHURCH?

2006-10-20T02:55:00.000-07:00

n Wednesday, Houston finally passed it's version of a smoking ordinance. It is now the 100th gazillion city in America that has imposed sanctions and laws against smokers.

The ordinance, approved by the City Council on Wednesday, bans smoking in most workplaces, including bars, starting next September. It includes an array of exemptions: outdoor patios, cigar shops, tobacco bars, hotel and motel rooms, and private rooms in nursing homes. It also allows smoking in designated rooms in convention centers and other meeting facilities.

Bingo halls, gaming facilities, billiard halls and sports arenas are among the list of public places where smoking is banned.

Hotels and motels, too, have their own restrictions; no more than 35 percent of rooms in a hotel can be designated for smoking.

The rule would have permitted the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, for example, to continue its annual One Great Night in November fundraiser at the museum. It's billed as an old-fashioned smoker, a black-tie event at which men smoke cigars and vote on art to be purchased with the proceeds from the $1,000-a-plate dinner.

I am soooooooooo glad there is no restriction in the new bill on smoking in church on Sundays. There's nothing like kicking back in a pew, putting your feet up, lighting up a nice, 100mm ciggie and listen to the gospel or a sermon.

Observations and Questions

Suppose they found out that wearing lipstick could cause illness or kissing someone that is wearing lipstick could be hazardous to your health? huh???? I suppose it's too much to ask our city politicians to allow the business's to decide huh? If they are losing business because of smoking, then guess what?? Geez, little by little I am beginning to wonder about the Declaration of Independence.

OKAY, OKAY Maybe I am misleading some people here. What I am trying to say is: let the business owners run their own business! This is supposedly America... if a business allows smoking then don't go in there...

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1931 Mickey Mantle NY Yankee, home run slugger (1956 Triple Crown). And in the death notices today we find in 1906 William "Buck" Ewing hall of fame catcher (NY Giants), dies at 67.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Guatemala: Revolution Day/Dia de la Revolucion (1944)
Kenya: Jomo Kenyatta Day

I'M SAFE... I'LL NEVER BE EXECUTED...

2006-10-19T03:29:00.000-07:00

ith all of my illnesses, the following story has convinced me that if I commit murder, I'll never be executed. This is just unreal and the perfect example of how bad our justice system has become.

An Ohio judge has delayed the execution of a former cult leader and convicted murderer who claims that obesity and diabetes will put him at a greater risk for suffering during lethal injection.

Jeffrey Lundgren, once a self-styled prophet in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was scheduled to die Oct. 24 for the shooting deaths of his followers, Dennis and Cheryl Avery, and their three daughters, ages 7 to 13, on April 17, 1989.

On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Gregory Frost granted Lundgren's request for intervention based on his arguments that the current lethal injection protocols are insufficient to ensure that he will not suffer "excruciating and conscious pain."

WTF????

"It cannot be established to a reasonable degree of medical certainty that the drugs administered in the lethal injection process will adequately sedate this plaintiff," Lundgren's complaint states. "The current lethal injection process creates an unacceptable risk that he will not be anesthetized sufficiently to render him unconscious and unaware of the excessive pain during the duration of the execution."

Did he care about pain and suffering to his victims?

Observations and Questions

Comments?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1945 John Lithgow actor (Harry & the Hendersons). And in the death notices today we have in 1978 Gig Young, actor, kills his bride of 3 weeks & then commits suicide at 64.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Mauritania: Independence Day (1960)
Virginia: Yorktown Day (1781)

WHEN A CAT TAKES OVER YOUR BRAIN

2006-10-18T02:37:00.000-07:00

kay... I didn't want to make this posting because it might show you what a wimp I have become. Then again, I thought maybe I should submit, post it, and thereby help my friends to not become a slave to a cat.

Below you can barely see a set of piercing feline, beady eyes looking in my window.

I guess about 6 months ago all of a sudden I noticed this cat walking around the complex. A very nice kitty... orange and white in color. I would walk past it and I'd say 'good morning kitty' and the cat would meow back at me.

In my apartment I always keep one front window open about 6 or 7 inches to allow fresh air into the place. One day I was sitting on the sofa watching TV or reading and all of a sudden I saw this little orange head pop up. After a minute that was followed by a long meow. I went over to the window and began talking to it.

I remembered some cat chow I had in the closet leftover from the kitten I had last year. So I went and got it, put it in a bowl and set it outside for the cat. BIG MISTAKE #1 The next day, guess who was back? I gave it some more chow. This became a routine... right down to the point where I actually went to the grocery and bought a bag of food. This was BIG MISTAKE #2.

Okay, fast forward 6 months. Now the cat comes to my window and meows as if to say: "ok, here I am, where's my food?" I swear that is exactly what she is saying.

We've become ummmm such pals that she now is coming 2 times a day! So far I have ignored her on the 2nd trip. Once a day I don't mind but I'm not being taken advantage of by a cat.

Yesterday, she comes to the window and goes through her little "I am starving meowing routine". I sigh and get up, open the front door and bend over to get her treats that I keep by the door. The second I am pre-occupied... she makes a dash through my legs... thinking she was getting into the apartment. I trap her between my feet. Oh no, this friendship only goes so far. I reach down and take her by the scruff of the neck and turn her around... pointing her in the other direction. She immediately turns around and tries one more time to get inside. Persistent little bugger.

So, here we are today... so far I haven't seen her but then again it's only 5AM. Yes, I have debated about 'adopting' her... but the complex has that 'you can have a pet for a $300 deposit' deal. I don't think so.

Observations and Questions

Do you think this cat loves me or is taking advantage of me?

WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW

2006-10-17T02:51:00.000-07:00

ometimes words just aren't enough....

Observations and Questions

I have to thank Peanut Queen for sending me this video. Thanks babe!

Almost forgot! The winner of the contest was Bud Buckley. Yes, it's Philly... the picture was taken across the river in beautiful, downtown Camden.. so kudos to Sal as well!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1948 Margot Kidder Yellowknife, actress (Lois Lane, Amityville Horror). And in the death notices we have in 1991 Tennessee Ernie Ford country singer (16 Tons), dies at 72.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Haiti: Dessalines Day (1806)
Malawi: Mother's Day

WELCOME TO PART 2 OF THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-10-15T03:59:00.000-07:00

ince last weeks' no prize contest went over so well, this week I'm doing it again. However, I have away too many clues in last weeks posting. So this week I'm just saying it's a skyline. LOL

I could make it more interesting to also ask from where the picture was taken. That could be really hard, however you'll earn extra points if you can tell me not only what is the skyline but also from where the picture was taken.

It's not really that hard. It's so easy I am ashamed to put it up.

Observations and Questions

So.... what is the picture?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1959 Sarah Ferguson [Fergie], Duchess of York. And in the death notices on this date in 1917 Mata Hari Dutch dancer/German spy executed by firing squad in Paris.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

French Guiana: Cayenne Holiday
Tunisia: Evacuation Day
Alaska: Alaska Day (1867)

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-10-14T02:34:00.000-07:00

oday's pictorial subject is "Lost" and to be honest I really had to scrounge around for something. Then I came across the Big Bend pictures. The last I was in Big Bend was about 10 years ago. If God ever had a playground, this is it.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

Early Spanish explorers of the Southwest discovered and developed many mines, some yielding silver and gold. According to legend, a rich ore body was discovered near the summit of Lost Mine Peak. Prisoners were forced to work the mine. These men were blindfolded on several occasions, in their march from Presidio San Vicente, to prevent them from learning its location. The ruins of this presidio are about 20 miles southeast of this peak across the Rio Grande in Mexico.

The story relates how Indians who resented the Spaniards' invasion of their homelands, attacked and killed them to the last man. The final act, according to the story, was to seal the mine entrance to prevent further exploration.

The legend states that if a man stood in the door of the chapel at Presidio San Vicente on Easter morning, he could see the sun's first rays strike Lost Mine Peak on the exact mine entrance.

And 'yes' I got lost every single time I went into the desert at Big Bend. Essentials are water and a map.

Observations and Questions

If you ever get a chance to go to Big Bend, GO... there is no place on earth like it.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1644 William Penn English Quaker & founder of Pennsylvania. And in the death notices today in 1977 Bing Crosby dies of a heart attack at 74, in Madrid, Spain.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bangladesh: Durga Puja
Malagasy Rep: Independence Day (1958)
Maryland: Peggy Stewart Day-US sinks ship against taxes (1774)
Peo's Dem Rep of Yemen (South Yemen): Independence Day (1962)

LOOK WHO'S BACK...

2006-10-13T02:28:00.000-07:00

fter my brief hiatus I am now all full of my favorite brain drugs and am happily back to normal. For the brief time I was out of the meds and my head was clearing I even wrote an email to someone and told them they were a piece of crap. Wheeeee.

However, I decided also that I am taking way too many pills and I think some of them are duplicates just under a different name. On my next visit to my primary doctor I think we're going to go over this list and get rid of some.

I hate this whole idea of a Primary Doctor and then they send you out to all of the other doctors for each ailment. What happened to the "all in one doctor?" You know, you went to see your family doctor and he took care of everything... no making an appointment with another doctor who then sends a report to your family doctor... I'm not sure this system of referring works...

Back in Philly when I was a kid we had Dr. Bigley, who actually made house calls. Even if he didn't get to your house until midnight, he got there. (You knew when Dr. Bigley came you were good for at least 3 days off from school. I'm pretty sure he is the patron Saint of school children.) So when I grew up and got married and had kids, Doctor Bigley was still in business and he became the family doctor. He finally retired and that's when things went to pot. You saw the primary and he farmed out your different illnesses to other doctors.

Observations and Questions

Anyway, I'm glad I'm back. Since it's Friday... any plans for the weekend?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1853 Lillie Langtry [Jersey Lily], vaudevillian actress. And in the death notices we find today in 1974 Ed Sullivan TV host (Ed Sullivan Show), dies at 73.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Burundi: Hero of the Nation Day

I'M HERE AND ALIVE

2006-10-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the emails concerned about where I am... I'm here. Just that I ran out of some meds the other day and put in an emergency call to the hospital for a new supply. They finally arrived by Fed Ex late last night. They'll take a few days to get re-working in my system and then I will be back to normal again.

I should be back tomorrow morning.

Thanks again... y'all are just too cool.

WHAT A MISERABLE AND HORRIBLE DREAM

2006-10-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

ver have a day where you wish it simply never happened? I mean a day where everything went wrong... even your dreams aka nightmares were terrible? Welcome to Denny's World... otherwise known as My 24 Hour Visit to Haides.

Times are all approximate:

Now we're talking yesterday here... I woke up at around 2AM... ugh.

3AM - Started to write blog for the day.

4AM - noticed Killer the Fish staring at me. Mouth pressed against the glass of the tank, making opening and closing motions. I figured maybe he was hungry. Ack! No food. This is where I started to think maybe I was becoming a mental case... I got dressed at 4AM in the morning and went to Walgreen's to buy Fish Food!

5AM - Finished writing blog for Tuesday.

6AM - N.Y. Bagel store opens. Hop in my car with nice, warm, crisp bagels floating around in my brain. That was right up until I felt this thump, thump, thump. God, please don't tell me I have a flat. I get out of car and look at all my tires... the 3 nicely inflated tires and the one flat one. To make a long excruciating story short... call AAA's to come fix my flat.

7AM - AAA finally shows up and fixes flat. Go to bagel store and buy bagels that I don't feel like eating anymore.

Noon - It starts raining a little bit. I figure it's time for lunch. I'll make a nice sandwich of imported ham and cheese, with onion and pickle, tomato and lettuce. I have all the ingredients except I notice there are only a few slices of bread left. I reach in and pull out two slices. Is that mold on the corners? OK scratch sandwiches. Left-over pizza is pretty good for lunch anyways.

Okay, this reliving my day is depressing me... let's skip ahead to:

8PM - I settle down on the sofa to watch Dead Like Me on the SciFi channel. I have a sneaky feeling this show seeped into my brain for things to come.

9PM - I finally go to bed. Think I can sleep? Nope, I am laying there thinking about my funeral. I have got to stop atching that show. Right after I was buried, I fell asleep...

11PM - I wake up for a race to the bathroom. I finish and hop back into bed. Fall asleep right away. I drift off to dreamland... I dream about death again... I have to select 13 people to die. Wheeee.... I'm not even going into it...

1AM - Up to the bathroom again. Back into bed and back into another dream. I can see one of my ex's carrying what appears to be a baby. She's on a staircase with a bunch of people in her way. She tells me the baby is dying. I grab the baby... Now don't laugh here... I open the cake box... yes, the baby is in a cake box. When I open it, there is the baby... a vanilla frosted cake, yellow insides with red stripes. I decide to slice off a little piece and I hear a voice telling me not to slice the red stripes because they are the veins.

2:19AM - here I am writing this blog again.

Observations and Questions

Sooooooooooooooo... how was your day?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1884 Eleanor Roosevelt 1st lady/crusader. And in the death notices in 1809 Meriwether Lewis capt of Lewis & Clark Expedition, dies at 35.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Panama, Panama Canal Zone: Revolution Day (1968)
Sri Lanka: Deepavali
US: General Pulaski Memorial Day (1779)
Western Samoa: National Day

AND THE WINNER IS...

2006-10-10T01:15:00.000-07:00

e had a few people that named the area so to speak as Shibuya Station in Tokyo. While The Laughing Frog was the first to say it was Shibuya Station in Tokyo, it was Barman that correctly identified the intersection, as requested... Dogenzaka and BunKarmura Dori. Congrats to Barman for winning nothing! If I had a 2nd place prize it surely would have gone to the Laughing Frog.

E-coli claims one final victim

Observations and Questions

Please say anything you want today in the comments because I don't have a damn thing to talk about... unless you are interested in my self-operation on my hangnail on my big toe with graphic pictures.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1813 Giuseppe Verdi Italy, composed operas (Rigoletto, Aida, Otello). And in the death notices today in 1985 Orson Welles actor (Citizen Kane), dies at 70.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Afghanistan: Deliverance Day
Cuba: Yara Day/Beginning of War of Independence (1868)
Finland: Aleksis Kivi Day (1834)
Japan: Health-Sports Day (1964)
Namibia, South Africa: Kruger Day (1825)
Oklahoma: Historical Day (1802)
South Dakota: Pioneers' Day
Taiwan: Double Tenth Day/National Day (1911)

WELCOME TO THE FIRST NO PRIZE CONTEST

2006-10-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

es folks... this is the Denny Shane First Annual No Prize Whatsoever Contest. Here is how it works... I am putting up a picture and you have to guess where it is in the world. The picture below also happens to be the busiest intersection in the world also with 1500 people crossing at the same time, everytime the light changes, at any given time, day or night!

Now you can't win if you just put the name of the country. This is hard so you'll need not only the city, but the intersection also!

Today is Sunday, so I'll leave this up today and tomorrow Monday. I'll announce the name on Tuesday along with the winner of nothing!

Hey hey! No pushing in the back there... everyone will get a chance to win nothing.

P.S. And no, they are not all my ex's lining up for alimony either.

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-10-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

his week, our photo entry is called sleep. Since last week I put my bed on here for the "Comfy" selection, I couldn't use it again this week.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

So, for this week and Sleep... I thought "The Final Sleep" might be good. This is a picture of my 5th great grandfather, Jacob Ehrenhardt. One of the founders of Emmaus, Pennsylvania and the Moravian Church in Pennsylvania. Born in 1716 in Germany, he died in 1760 in Emmaus, Pa.

Observations and Questions

Any plans for the weekend? And to our neighbors in Canada, Happy Thanksgiving on Monday!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1927 Al Martino Phila, singer (Here in My Heart)/actor (Godfather). And in the death notices today in 1849 Edgar Allen Poe poet, dies in Baltimore at 40.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Fiji: Deed of Cession (1874)
German Dem Rep: Constitution Day (1949)
Libya: Evacuation Day

AND YOU THOUGHT WE HAD SOME GOOFY LAWS...

2006-10-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

es, I know, you thought only the United States has some pretty dumb laws... Well, as a public service to my readers who may be planning a trip abroad I wanted to inform you of some laws you may need to know.

In Lebanon, men are legally allowed to have sex with animals, but the animals must be female. Having sexual relations with a male animal is punishable by death.
(Like THAT makes sense.)

In Bahrain, a male doctor may legally examine a woman's genitals, but is prohibited from looking directly at them during the examination. He may only see their reflection in a mirror. (Do they look different reversed?)

Muslims are banned from looking at the genitals of a corpse. This also applies to undertakers. The sex organs of the deceased must be covered with a brick or piece of wood at all times. (A brick?)

The penalty for masturbation in Indonesia is decapitation.! (Much worse than "going blind!")

There are men in Guam whose full-time job is to travel the countryside and deflower young virgins, who pay them for the privilege of having sex for the first time. Reason: under Guam law, it is expressly forbidden for virgins to marry.
(Let's just think for a minute; is there any job anywhere else in the world that even comes close to this?)

In Hong Kong, a betrayed wife is legally allowed to kill her adulterous husband, but may only do so with her bare hands. The husband's illicit lover, on the other hand, may be killed in any manner desired.

Topless saleswomen are legal in Liverpool , England - but only in tropical fish stores (I couldn't make this stuff up... honest!!)
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

In Cali, Colombia, a woman may only have sex with her husband, and the first time this happens, her mother must be in the room to witness the act. (Makes one shudder at the thought.)

In Santa Cruz , Bolivia , it is illegal for a man to have sex with a woman and her daughter at the same time. (I presume this was a big enough problem that they had to pass this law?)

In Maryland, it is illegal to sell condoms from vending machines with one exception: Prophylactics may be dispensed from a vending machine only "in places where alcoholic beverages are sold for consumption on the premises." (Is this a great country or what? Well, not as great as Guam!)

Humans and dolphins are the only species that have sex for pleasure. (I! s that why Flipper was always smiling?)

The ant can lift 50 times its own weight, can pull 30 times its own weight and
always falls over on its right side when intoxicated. (From drinking little bottles of???) (Did the government pay for this research??)

And, the best for last?
Turtles can breathe through their butts. (And I thought I had bad breath in the morning!)

Observations and Questions

I am so glad I live in Texas.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1906 Janet Gaynor Philadelphia, actress (Sunrise, A Star Is Born). And in the death notices this date in 1989 Bette Davis dies at 81.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

1889 Thomas Edison shows his 1st motion picture
1991 Elizabeth Taylor weds for the 8th time (Larry Fortensky)
Egypt: Military Day

HOW TO BE LIKE ME HEALTHWISE

2006-10-05T01:08:00.000-07:00

ell here we go again. This is the 2nd in my little series on my health problems and maybe a guideline for how not to live your life. (If you need to catch up: 28 September blog article) Okay, so I'm laying in the hospital and the doctor comes in and informs me I've had a heart attack, and they also discovered diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

To quicken the pace here, I get out of the hospital, rest at home awhile and go back to work. Remember, I am out of politics now and in Houston and working for a resort on an island off the coast of Belize in Central America. This resort, which shall remain nameless is owned by 3 Muslims... none of whom know their ass from a hole in the ground. The day I go back to work, all of the owners are on vacation. A worker comes in and hands me a letter from one of the owners... I am out of a job! Hey welcome back Denny! Geez.

I hurry up and get another job this time working for a theater here in Houston... a legit theater not a"men only" theater. LOL As I am learning the business, I am beginning to notice things... like I can't remember anything. What the hell is going on? And I mean I can't remember work related things one day to the next. Needless to say I am let go from this place.

I think this is just a bit too much for my wife and she decides to leave AND file for divorce. Wheeee.... buckle your safety belts... here we go... Anyway I go through the divorce, totally befuddled.

Let's just say by now I am sinking fast, mentally. I feel like crap. I head to a Psych at the hospital in dire straights... very dire. Enter Clinical Depression.

Awhile later I am sitting at the computer one day and all of a sudden I feel this tingling in my face. "This is odd", I think to myself and go to the mirror. GASP! the left side of my face looks as if it's sliding off my skull. Stroke Number 1. Back into the hospital for probing and testing and all kinds of things. I am now mentally exhausted, completely spent. I thought to myself, Denny... you're on your way out. This now on top of the depression and everything else was simply way too much for me to handle. I don't do sickness, illness and catastrophic things well at all.

All of my fast living, divorces, politics, etc., was finally catching up with me.

Observations and Questions

Next Thursday... Strokes 2 and 3.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1902 Ray Kroc Illinois, founder of McDonalds/owner (San Diego Padres). And in the always popular death notices today in 1967 Clifton C Williams Jr astronaut, dies at 35, in T-38 jet crash.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Azores, Guinea-Bisau, Maderia, Portugal: Republic Day (1910)
Bulgaria: Independence Day (1908)
Indonesia: Army Day
Lesotho: Sports Day

I AM BEYOND PISSED AND HORRIFIED

2006-10-04T03:12:00.000-07:00

y blood pressure has been off the charts over the last few days. I want everyone to know that if I have a heart attack or another stroke, it's because of this goddamned mother f-cker in Paradise, Pa.

I can't even imagine the horror going through those poor girls' minds...

I can't even think of an appropriate name to call this piece of shit. And this bullshit about him molesting cousins 20 years ago, and the urge for himself to molest little girls is absurd. I'm not buying into it at all.

Aside from the families of those poor little girls, I really feel sorry for his wife and 3 girls. Oh.... My.... God.... the psychological problems they are destined to have for the rest of their lives. "Oh yes, my daddy massacred a half dozen little girls." And then he takes the cowards way out by killing himself.

I really, really, really, REALLY hopes that he is not forgiven in the afterlife. I hope his balls are crushed and ripped off every minute of every day for all eternity.

The Amish people held a meeting or a service and said they forgive the guy. BULLSHIT... there is no amount of forgiveness. I can't imagine the families of these little girls getting up and saying they forgive the guy.

I have little daughters and little grand-children... I would be beyond livid and there would be NO forgiveness in my heart no matter what religion I was involved with...

I am so glad I am calmed down since yesterday when I originally wanted to write this posting. I am sitting in an air-conditioned apartment as I write this. You wouldn't believe how bad I am sweating right now. God damned son of a bitch, mother f-cker.

Observations and Questions

Your thoughts?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1923 Charlton Heston actor (10 Commandments, Ben Hur, Planet of the Apes). And in the death notices today in 1904 Frederic Auguste Bertholdi French sculptor ("Statue of Liberty").

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bangladesh: Shab I Barat
Lesotho: Independence Day (1966)

MY PREDICTION

2006-10-03T01:48:00.000-07:00

eez, I go away for a few days and all hell breaks loose in our beloved Capital. So our Congress is now grappling to contain a mushrooming sex scandal just five weeks before the November 7 vote. Hold onto something (no not that), this is gonna be a big one.

Trust me, this isn't just confined to former Congressman Mark Foley. This could rival Watergate, and not just be confined to one Republican. I suspect some Democrats will be working their fingers to the bone also...

Yes folks, welcome to "Pagegate". Now when the news media steals my name for this, remember where you read it first! (Extra Note: Would you believe that when I check the visitor totals, I noticed CBS was on my blog not once, but twice already today?).

5. 3 October 00:58 CBS, United States
6. 3 October 01:00 CBS, United States

Observations and Questions

But seriously folks, when you go to the polls in about 5 or 6 weeks and pull that big lever, will this and should it have any bearing on how we vote?

Joke Of The Day

Just before takeoff on an airplane flight, the stewardess reminded boxing champ Muhammed Ali to fasten his seat belt. "Superman don't need no seat belt," replied Ali.

"Superman don't need no airplane either," retorted the stewardess.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1939 James Darren Phila, actor/singer (Gidget, Diamond Head). And in the death notices this date in 1979 Claudia Jennings playmate (Nov, 1969)/actress, dies at 29.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bangladesh: Jamat Ul-Wida
Barbados: United Nations Day/Clerks' Holiday
Germany: Reunion Day "Tag der Deutsche Einheit" (1990)
Honduras: Moraz Day/Soldier's Day
Iraq: Independence Day (1932) Yeah right.
Netherlands: Relief of Leyden Day (1573-74)
South Korea: National Foundation Day

GOOD MONDAY MORNING OR AFTERNOON

2006-10-02T02:36:00.000-07:00

ou may have expected Confession here today but between yesterday and today I haven't quite been myself. I decided to take a rest. I'll be back tomorrow morning bright and early.

Thanks for stopping. You can comment about anything today!

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-09-30T00:40:00.000-07:00

hen I saw the topic for this weeks photo shoot, I didn't need to think twice. I immediately knew the subject would be my bed.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

Yes, nice and comfy... Since you all have a bed, I am assuming, then you know that great feeling when after a long and hard day of blogging when you finally crawl into your ship of dreams.

As you drift off, away from the shoreline of everyday life your mind begins to wander and takes you to many places. Everynight is a new adventure. MMmMmMmm yes, and this is exactly where I should be right now at 2:45 AM in the morning instead of sitting here wide awake doing this blog.

Observations and Questions

And just for the heck of it, as you look at the picture, I sleep on the left side. The right side is open and available! LOL

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1926 Robin Roberts Phillies pitcher, Hall of Famer (Won 28 in 1952). And in the death notices in 1955 James Dean killed in an auto collision at 24 near Cholame Calif.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Botswana: Botswana Day (1966)

WHEN IS TOO FAR... TOO FAR?

2006-09-29T01:34:00.000-07:00

emember the other day when I wrote about my hometown being on the cutting edge of non-smoking? The have enacted a bill to prohibit smoking in bars, restaurants and pretty much every other place in town? Well, they have made news again... they want to be so cosmopolitan ya know.

Philly celebrates Hispanic Heritage in September, African American Heritage in February, and Asian Pacific American Heritage in May. Well, now you can add one more month to celebrate in Philly... February is now officially Gay and Lesbian Month. Not only is it official now but it will also be taught/studied/examined in public schools.

An irate Senita Watson went to school district headquarters yesterday to find out how she could homeschool her daughter for the month of October. She won't let her 7-year-old second grader attend Emlen School during that period, she said.

"How can you celebrate gay and lesbian month? What are you going to teach my daughter?" asked Watson, who said she was calling on other parents to boycott the district in October. "They need to have a nonviolence month, not a gay and lesbian month... Our children have enough to worry about with drugs."

It should also be noted, especially if you live in Philly, that the National Day of Silence Against Anti-Gay Bullying is on April 18.

Now if there are any gay or lesbian people reading my blog today, please don't get your panties in a bunch... Gay/Lesbian anything is not a heritage... it's a sexual preference.

Yes sir/ma'am, Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love... my home town!

Observations and Questions

I may just write City Council a letter asking for a Heterosexual Male Month be on the calendar for next year.

NOTE I am not gay-bashing here... just pointing out that fair is fair.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1935 Jerry Lee Lewis singer (Great Balls of Fire, Breathless). And in the death notices in 1989 A.A. Busch Jr brewer/baseball owner (St Louis Cards), dies at 90.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Bhutan: Dhimbhulhami Tsechhu
Paraguay: Battle of Boquer¢n Day (1930)
Brunei: Constitution Day
India: Durga Puja

WHEN HEARTACHES BECOME A HEART ATTACK

2006-09-28T01:38:00.000-07:00

ot your attention? Good, come on in, pull up a chair and relax... This is a story of the heart... no, not love-related matters... other matters of the heart... more like my heart attack. Why? Well, the other day I was chatting with a blog friend and she suggested I write about these things... my medical problems... you know, get them out in the open and talk about them. Possibly it would do me some mental health good. My Psych might agree, she reads my blog... I think she is monitoring my goofiness. Anyway...

If this gets boring, I need to know that right away. I'm not too sure about writing things like this... I am a pretty private person in real life... and writing about my health is kinda private... so I am a little reluctant.

Let's see.... it was in January or February of 2000... I had just finished an argument with someone, who will remain nameless. I left the dining room and went and laid down... within several minutes I began to feel "odd", something was wrong but I didn't know what.

I got out of bed and took about 6 steps into the living room and simply sat down on the floor. No pain, nothing... but something was off-center. My ex helped me up and walked me over to the sofa where I sat, kinda dazed. Neither of us knew what was wrong. Within dunno 15 minutes I was fine it seemed, and went to bed. Looking back I should have called 911, but I didn't - (1st mistake).

Skip ahead 6 months and I am sitting in work one days and began getting strange feelings. This time I figured maybe I should get myself checked out. I went to the local hospital. I guess I looked a mess when I walked into the emergency ward... the next thing that I knew, I was laying on a table, shirt off and hooked up to all kinds of machines. Now this is where things get a bit bizarre. After about a half hour, the cause of the heart attack shows up... to make a long, boring story short... I get dressed and leave the hospital. Yes... you read that right - (2nd mistake).

The next day I woke up in the morning and didn't feel good again. I got dressed and drove myself to the VA Hospital here in Houston. I explained the problems and they put me on a table and went to work. I did not like all of the attention I was getting... especially when the nurse stuck her finger up my butt, looking for God knows what. I mentioned to her that the pain was a bit higher in my body.

The doctor came along and informed me that after evaluating my test results I was being put into the hospital. He started reading off the problems they found besides the obvious heart problem.

Next Thursday: The real reasons for the heart attack and the aftermath: the path to 3 strokes.

Observations and Questions

If this is boring, let me know. I'm still not sure if this is entertaining.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 106 BC Pompey (Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus) Rome, warrior. And in the death notices today we find in 1978 Pope John Paul I 65-yr-old found dead, after only 33 days as Pope. Hmmmmm....

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

California: Cabrillo Day discovery of Calif (1542)
Guinea: Referendum Day (1958)
Kiwanis: Kiwanis Kid Day
Libya: Shawwal 14
Republic of China (Taiwan): Confucius' Birthday/Teachers' Day

JUST A NICE STORY

2006-09-27T01:05:00.000-07:00

very once in awhile I come across something nice that I think you should read. Today, I'm sharing a good one.

SYRINGA, Idaho - It was a ricochet nearly 50 years in the making. At age 8, Terry Jackson gave up his prized .22-caliber Winchester short-barrel rifle to get his grandmother a washer. Recently, the 57-year-old got the gun back through a series of chance encounters and conversations.

"I didn't even have much reaction," said Jackson. "I was so dumbfounded."

As a boy, Jackson felt bad that his grandmother was too poor to have a washer. So he took the rifle he had earned money for by mowing lawns and doing other chores to a pawn shop.

"That was the only thing I had that was worth anything," Jackson told The Lewiston Tribune.

The pawn shop owner agreed to trade a wringer washer for the rifle. When the washer was delivered to his grandmother, Edna Jackson, she refused it until realizing the sacrifice her grandson had made.

"She just couldn't believe it," Jackson said.

The rifle, meanwhile, remained with the pawn shop owner, Bill Jackson. He never sold the rifle, instead giving it to family friend James Grow in the 1980s, recounting the story that accompanied the rifle.

"He told me the story but I never thought anything about it," Grow said. "I didn't even know who Terry Jackson was at the time, although Bill did tell me his name."

Grow said Bill Jackson told him the gun might be worth something someday. He never shot the rifle and kept it in his closet.

Grow become an attorney in Lewiston, and Terry Jackson recently hired Grow to do some legal work. The connection might not have been made about the rifle except for a conversation Becky Brotnov, Terry Jackson's companion, had with Grow during a business lunch.

She told the story of Terry Jackson giving up the rifle to get the washer.

"All of a sudden it dawned on me, I own the gun," Grow said.

After hearing the story, Grow said he knew he wouldn't keep the gun. So he recently drove to Terry Jackson's home to return the rifle.

"That was a really nice thing he did for his grandma," Grow said.

I just had to look up the census data for this town. I can't imagine this ever happening in Philly, Houston or New York. The population is 270. I imagine everyone is practically related to everyone else in the town.

Observations and Questions

Free day... anything ya want!

Tomorrow's Preview

The Heart Attack!

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1895 George Raft NYC, actor (Each Dawn I Die, Scarface, Some Like It Hot). And in the death notices we have in 1984 John Facenda sportscaster (NFL Action), dies at 72.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

South Belgium: French Day
Taiwan: Moon Festival
World: Ancestor Appreciation Day
Hong Kong: Moon Cake Festival

"AH! VELCOME DERE HERR SHANE", FREUD SAID...

2006-09-26T03:58:00.000-07:00

ome here and lay down on the sofa and tell me your problms... Okay, this might need a bit of an explanation. The other day I was chatting with someone I like and a regular visitor to the News. As y'all know, I have some memory problems but the gist of the conversation was that I should talk about my feelings, emotions and other deep, dark secrets on my blog. This person thought that it would be therapeutic for me.

I honestly didn't realize I needed this kind of therapy. And I am not making fun of this person's caring about me. Not at all and that is not my intention and I hope they realize that point.

The way I have always looked at my blog was more of an entertainment stop-over on your way to another blog. I try and write happy articles... ok, some things I write are about a few things that piss me off... but for the most part... it's light and airey.

They thought I could benefit from your comments when I write about my heart attack, three strokes, clinical depression, memory loss, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and there must be something I am forgetting... geez, I have everything else. lol

One way I look at it, is that if a young miss comes along and MIGHT be interested in me... as soon as she reads my lists of ailments... well, you get the picture.

So I am asking for your help. Should I continue to write what I write... or should I be more personal? Tell you my deepest secrets? Expose my soul bare?

Observations and Questions

So.... what do you think? Talk to me... I'll listen...

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1888 T.S. Eliot St Louis poet/dramatist/critic (Waste Land-Nobel 1948). And in the death notices we find in 1820 Daniel Boone frontiersman, dies in Missouri at 85.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

New Zealand: Dominion Day
Sri Lanka: Bandaranaike Day (1959)
Yemen Arab Rep, Yemen Peo Dem Rep: Revolution Day (1962)
Khmer Republic: Ceremony of the Dead

YOU KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS, RIGHT??

2006-09-24T04:38:00.000-07:00

ou have been sinning all week now and it's time to unburden those sins. I know I was a bit late today getting here but I was chatting with a girl on camera and... oh wait... this isn't about my sins is it?

If I go into detail then you will just read and forget all about your sins.

And we don't want that, do we? I didn't think so... Ok, you know the drill, ladies on the left and men on the right. Ladies get preference in the confessional. And remember I am always available for private confessions!

Ok, enough of me blabbing... let's talk about you now.

Observations and Questions

Ok, let's get to the good part... the sins! Also, I know that this music has been playing for 748 days now, but I like it... and it's really good to confess sins to...

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT SATURDAY

2006-09-23T00:13:00.000-07:00

kay, I admit... I was caught off guard today. All week I was so excited about that I forgot all about the Scavenger Hunt Photo for today. Today's photo is/are Eyes.

Grab the Scavenger Hunt Code Join the Hunt. Join the Blogroll

When I woke up this morning about 1:30AM I realized that today was Photo Day and the subject was/is/are Eyes. Furthermore, I had nothing planned. So, as a cheap replacement for an otherwise astounding photo, I took a quick snap of what my eyes look like at 1:45AM

Yes, I know they're bloodshot. They always look that way when I wake up. I also have discovered that my one eye looks crooked. It really isn't... it must be the camera angle.

Holy Crap It's 11AM and I am fully awake. I just looked at my picture. WHAT THE HELL WAS I THINKING???? Good Lord alive, geez.... I can't even imagine waking up next to me in the morning and seeing those two things staring at me. No wonder I don't get dates! lol

LAST MINUTE NEWS FLASH

PARIS (Reuters) - France's Defense Ministry said on Saturday it could not confirm a newspaper report quoting French secret services as saying al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden had died but would launch an inquiry into the leak of secret papers.

The Defense Ministry issued the statement after the French regional newspaper L'Est Republicain said Saudi Arabia was convinced bin Laden had died of typhoid in Pakistan last month.

Observations and Questions

Don't forget tomorrow is "Get Rid of Your Sins Day! Come prepared to confess all of them!

Next Week

Comfy

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1920 Mickey Rooney Bkln NY, actor (Bill, Andy Hardy, Sugar Babies). And in the death notices in 1939 Sigmund Freud created psychoanalysis, dies at 83.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Puerto Rico: Grito de Lares Day (1868)
Saudi Arabia: Unification Day (1932)
Wyoming: Frontier Day
Japan: Autumnal Equinox Day

IF I DIDN'T KNOW BETTER

2006-09-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

fter watching the side show that Hugo Chavez has put on in the last several days, I would swear he was running for President. Chavez stunned delegates at the U.N. General Assembly on Wednesday by calling Bush "the devil himself" and saying he left the smell of sulfur hanging in the chamber from his appearance the previous day.

He received an ovation at the United Nations.

However, what caught my attention was the raucous and upbeat receptions later Wednesday at a free university and again on Thursday at a Baptist church in the predominantly black neighborhood of Harlem.

U.S. officials said Chavez's remarks did not dignify a response. Even Nancy Pelosi, a liberal member of Congress and one of Bush's fiercest political opponents, called Chavez a "thug" for likening Bush to the devil.

"Hugo Chavez fancies himself a modern day Simon Bolivar but all he is an everyday thug," the House Democratic leader said at a news conference. In his New York appearance, Chavez invoked Bolivar and his other favorite leaders and thinkers as he lectured Americans on their own history and race relations, such as slavery and the conquest of Native Americans.

I don't know friends... I look around the world and I shake my head. I can't even imagine what the world will look like as my grandchildren grow up.

Observations and Questions

If you could have anyone, and I do mean anyone... presently living or dead in history be the President of the US, who would it be? They don't have to be an American citizen either.

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1960 Joan Jett Phila, singer (Blackhearts-I Love Rock 'n Roll). And in the death notices we have in 1989 Irving Berlin composer, dies at 101.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Mali: Independence Day (1960)
Wheaton, Illinois: Autumn Harvest Festival
US: American Indian Day (4th Friday in September) (1916)

EVER HEAR FADO?

2006-09-21T03:52:00.000-07:00

ne of the things I do not regret about my life is that I have exposed myself to many cultures, languages and music. Especially music. Growing up, just because I didn't understand the language didn't mean I didn't listen. Actually, you don't have to know the language to appreciate a song.

Playing in the background today is from Portugal... it's a type of music called Fado. I don't know why I enjoy it, but I do. Fado (translated as destiny or fate) is a music genre which can be traced from the 1820s in Portugal, but probably with much earlier origins. It is characterized by mournful tunes and lyrics, often about the sea or the life of the poor.

It makes no difference that I don't understand Portuguese. Shrug. I like a lot of things I don't understand. Laugh.

Observations and Questions

Is or are there things you enjoy from a foreign country that you don't understand but appreciate?

Birth Announcements and Dusty Death Notices

Born this date in 1947 Stephen King suspense writer (Shining, Kujo). And in the death notices we find in 1974 Jacqueline Susann author (Valley of the Dolls), dies at 53 of cancer.

Holidays and Special Dates Today Around the World

Malta: Independence Day (1964)
Philipines: Thanksgiving