Let me start off by saying that I do not believe that the US should close its borders to immigrants (or visitors). Everyone in the US immigrated at some point back in their family history (with the exception of the Native Americans, and some African Americans that were forced here). Immigration is what makes the US the diverse and multicultural country that it is, and I am thankful for that. I would not change that we are a "freak of nature" country that manages to have so much difference and still so much peace.
I do however think that we need to get some kind of control on documenting who is coming into the country regardless of means of travel. I understand that the division of the US government that controls our borders and immigration is more than likely underfunded and undermanned, especially on our land borders, but I have also seen evidence that there is a basic lack of rudimentary documentation and organization.
I am not claiming to be any kind of expert and I, by no means, have the answer to this problem, but I hope that I am not the only one that sees that this is not working. It makes no sense to track anyone if you are only going to track selectively. It seems like to me, the Mexicans get sent back to whatever life they might be trying to escape just because their country is close, while everyone else just gets a free pass (with no documentation or accountability) into the US. That does not seem right to me, without even taking into account the "homeland security" issues that might arise.
This system has so many holes in it, that there is almost no way to stop the leaks. It needs a serious overhaul and at some point the government has to decide that it is a priority.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Brutally Honest
There is nothing like having a 6 year old stay with you for a few days to bring you smashing back to reality...
Here are just a few of the gems we heard this weekend.
When returning from the restroom in a crowded restaurant..."It sure feels good to poop!"
While I am making dinner in the kitchen and she has closed herself off in the sunroom and is shouting to us through the sliding glass door on why she won't come in..."That smell!!!!".
Upon my offer to color a picture for her in her coloring book for a souvenior..."No thanks".
And what has to be the absolute best of them...while watching me put mascara on in the bathroom..."I know how to make you look younger". This is followed up by me asking, "Don't I look young?" and she replies "Not very".
Here are just a few of the gems we heard this weekend.
When returning from the restroom in a crowded restaurant..."It sure feels good to poop!"
While I am making dinner in the kitchen and she has closed herself off in the sunroom and is shouting to us through the sliding glass door on why she won't come in..."That smell!!!!".
Upon my offer to color a picture for her in her coloring book for a souvenior..."No thanks".
And what has to be the absolute best of them...while watching me put mascara on in the bathroom..."I know how to make you look younger". This is followed up by me asking, "Don't I look young?" and she replies "Not very".
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
First Flight
Caught this little one out learning the flying ropes with Mom and Dad today. He/She was so cute just sitting in the bush waiting for me to leave...
This is one of the Red Cardinal chicks from the 2nd clutch they have had....and no, I don't have Bluebird chicks yet...we're still waiting in that department.
Monday, July 11, 2005
Body of U.S. Commando Found in Afghanistan - Yahoo! News
Unfortunately, the news is not that he was found alive with his cross hairs on the people that are responsible for this latest mess of attacks...but at least his family now has some closure and the jackasses that were claiming to have captured him and beheaded him were just proven to be a bunch of liars.
Still Waiting
I swear that watching bluebird eggs is like watching water boil....it has been three weeks now but I have been told by someone that knows more than me, that it is possible for the hatching to take much longer than the publish "2 weeks".
I guess it just depends on the conditions and how the parents are feeling because they are able to slow the hatching process down somehow...so we are keeping our fingers crossed, but at this point....still no chicks.
I guess it just depends on the conditions and how the parents are feeling because they are able to slow the hatching process down somehow...so we are keeping our fingers crossed, but at this point....still no chicks.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Kick Ass Lightening
We are having a bit of a storm today...something about a girl named Cindy I guess. Anyhow, the lightening has been awesome...I saw one tonight near an airfield that I swear was from cloud to ground. Too bad I didn't have a camera.
I have always been a storm fanatic, even when I was little. My dad used to get my sister and I up to watch the storms in our hometown (which are primarily dry lightening storms) and I think the fact that he never tried to scare us with them, just encouraged our awe of them, makes me the storm lover I am today.
This little storm actually caused us to stop playing soccer tonight. We had a few that were far away and then a close one and that was all she wrote...everyone headed for their cars.
Thing is that after leaving the field, I headed towards the storm because I wanted to watch it...I think in another life, I would have chosen to be a storm chaser (although I am sure it is not as fun as the movies make it look). That is when I got to see the almost full strike.
Thing is that right after that bolt, I was passed by a fire truck with lights and sirens going...hope no one got hurt.
I have always been a storm fanatic, even when I was little. My dad used to get my sister and I up to watch the storms in our hometown (which are primarily dry lightening storms) and I think the fact that he never tried to scare us with them, just encouraged our awe of them, makes me the storm lover I am today.
This little storm actually caused us to stop playing soccer tonight. We had a few that were far away and then a close one and that was all she wrote...everyone headed for their cars.
Thing is that after leaving the field, I headed towards the storm because I wanted to watch it...I think in another life, I would have chosen to be a storm chaser (although I am sure it is not as fun as the movies make it look). That is when I got to see the almost full strike.
Thing is that right after that bolt, I was passed by a fire truck with lights and sirens going...hope no one got hurt.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani
This song must be my soccer theme song because everyday when I am in the truck leaving my soccer game, it comes on the radio...the thing is that I don't leave soccer at the same time everyday...it varies.
Laziness
I don't know what is wrong with me. I always go to bed with the greatest of intentions and then in the morning, they are all out the window.
J had to be at work particularly early this morning, so I set my alarm for earlier than usual but, for about an hour after he left. Now that it is getting warmer and muggier here, it is easier to do my walking in the early morning. I had great plans to get walking, and the gym out of the way first thing, this morning.
I am trying to double up on my exercise each day because I am still (6 months later) carrying around the winter coat...
Well, I didn't get up with my alarm...I couldn't go back to sleep when J first left, and by the time I did, my alarm was not what I wanted to hear. So I shut it off and ended up sleeping until 8:20am....ugh...not the start I was looking for.
Now I have to get moving so I can get my walk in (in the sun, so I will have to wear a tank top so I can multitask and get some sun on my arms). I don't know if the gym will end up being this morning or tonight as I have a soccer game tonight too. I just have to get motivated, once I start, I am usually pretty good about staying on it.
J had to be at work particularly early this morning, so I set my alarm for earlier than usual but, for about an hour after he left. Now that it is getting warmer and muggier here, it is easier to do my walking in the early morning. I had great plans to get walking, and the gym out of the way first thing, this morning.
I am trying to double up on my exercise each day because I am still (6 months later) carrying around the winter coat...
Well, I didn't get up with my alarm...I couldn't go back to sleep when J first left, and by the time I did, my alarm was not what I wanted to hear. So I shut it off and ended up sleeping until 8:20am....ugh...not the start I was looking for.
Now I have to get moving so I can get my walk in (in the sun, so I will have to wear a tank top so I can multitask and get some sun on my arms). I don't know if the gym will end up being this morning or tonight as I have a soccer game tonight too. I just have to get motivated, once I start, I am usually pretty good about staying on it.
Monday, July 04, 2005
Fourth of July
This has been a long weekend for us and we have tried to make the most of it.
On Saturday, we had some friends over (some we have seen recently, and some we have not) for a little cookout, some drinks and some Nascar (ha ha...don't ask me why I like it but I do). It was a great time and I am pretty sure that everyone had fun...
Sunday, J and I went to play golf in the afternoon since we had a cheap coupon for this course that is not too far from our house. He had played there once before but it was new to me. I played horrible on the front nine, but did improve on the second half. Part of that is due to the fact that my swing is finally starting to stabilize and I can consistently hit the balls these days. My drives are decent too but I would like for them to go farther (who wouldn't, huh?).
Anyhow, today, we decided to go play there again in the afternoon as we had the coupon for the entire weekend. We both played better the second time, in fact I ended up only 3 shots back from J's score....that is unusual for me. We finished up around 6pm, and headed home for showers and food.
Finally around 8pm we headed out to a local town that was having a 4th of July celebration with fireworks. We got there about 20 minutes before the fireworks were going to start and about 10 minutes before the deluge of rain started. Anyhow, we knew the rain was coming when we got there so we had scoped out an alternative option. As soon as we felt the first drops, we picked up our chairs and headed for this little pavilion nearby that we would still be able to see the fireworks from. We got to it very quickly and it started to seriously dump, along with some lightening and thunder thrown in for good measure. Fortunately for us, we got there fast enough that we were able to set up our chairs near the edge so we could see, because within seconds there were at least 100 other people under the roof with us.
The fireworks started and it was a pretty good show by all standards, but a really great show for how small of a town we were in. We were impressed. They were letting them off very close to us, so they were very loud and beautiful. The show lasted for some time, and so did the rain. After it ended, the rain slowed and we made it to our car without too much wetness.
Overall, we had as good of a 4th that could be expected without having any family close by. We hope this finds everyone else enjoying a safe and happy 4th of July as well.
On Saturday, we had some friends over (some we have seen recently, and some we have not) for a little cookout, some drinks and some Nascar (ha ha...don't ask me why I like it but I do). It was a great time and I am pretty sure that everyone had fun...
Sunday, J and I went to play golf in the afternoon since we had a cheap coupon for this course that is not too far from our house. He had played there once before but it was new to me. I played horrible on the front nine, but did improve on the second half. Part of that is due to the fact that my swing is finally starting to stabilize and I can consistently hit the balls these days. My drives are decent too but I would like for them to go farther (who wouldn't, huh?).
Anyhow, today, we decided to go play there again in the afternoon as we had the coupon for the entire weekend. We both played better the second time, in fact I ended up only 3 shots back from J's score....that is unusual for me. We finished up around 6pm, and headed home for showers and food.
Finally around 8pm we headed out to a local town that was having a 4th of July celebration with fireworks. We got there about 20 minutes before the fireworks were going to start and about 10 minutes before the deluge of rain started. Anyhow, we knew the rain was coming when we got there so we had scoped out an alternative option. As soon as we felt the first drops, we picked up our chairs and headed for this little pavilion nearby that we would still be able to see the fireworks from. We got to it very quickly and it started to seriously dump, along with some lightening and thunder thrown in for good measure. Fortunately for us, we got there fast enough that we were able to set up our chairs near the edge so we could see, because within seconds there were at least 100 other people under the roof with us.
The fireworks started and it was a pretty good show by all standards, but a really great show for how small of a town we were in. We were impressed. They were letting them off very close to us, so they were very loud and beautiful. The show lasted for some time, and so did the rain. After it ended, the rain slowed and we made it to our car without too much wetness.
Overall, we had as good of a 4th that could be expected without having any family close by. We hope this finds everyone else enjoying a safe and happy 4th of July as well.
Mystery Pain
A term I have adopted from my sister...I have one and it has lingered much longer than they usually do.
It is on my left side near the top of my rib cage. When I breath deep, it feels like a rib is poking me in the chest...I can't lay on my left side in bed or it hurts during every breath. I only really notice it when I am trying to sleep.
I just wish it would hurry up and go away already.
It is on my left side near the top of my rib cage. When I breath deep, it feels like a rib is poking me in the chest...I can't lay on my left side in bed or it hurts during every breath. I only really notice it when I am trying to sleep.
I just wish it would hurry up and go away already.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
The Daily Dancer
I have just discovered, thanks to my friend Randi a fabulous new blog called The Daily Dancer. I know I might be slow on the uptake on this, but I just had to share it as well, in case any of you have not seen it yet.
I admire this man's imagination and guts. I think it is awesome that he is able to just be himself with no concerns for what anyone else thinks. I am also impressed with the number of hits his site has received in such a short time (at three weeks, it was 50,000, now, I am sure much higher).
I don't know if this is just a marketing gimmick or truly an opportunity to share the love of dance with the world (or both), but I think it is so cool either way because it is so original. I added a link to his blog to my sidebar, and I hope you will get a smile from this dude, like I did.
I admire this man's imagination and guts. I think it is awesome that he is able to just be himself with no concerns for what anyone else thinks. I am also impressed with the number of hits his site has received in such a short time (at three weeks, it was 50,000, now, I am sure much higher).
I don't know if this is just a marketing gimmick or truly an opportunity to share the love of dance with the world (or both), but I think it is so cool either way because it is so original. I added a link to his blog to my sidebar, and I hope you will get a smile from this dude, like I did.
Friday, July 01, 2005
Severe Weather Alert
It is currently 94 degrees out but the heat index makes it feel like 100. We have about 50% humidity (which actually seems low to me but perhaps it is because of the heat).
This is what I have to look forward to for the rest of the night (and being that this kind of thing invariably means power outages...I better find something to occupy my time...haha).
...RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS LATE TODAY AND EARLY TONIGHT...
HOT HUMID AIR AND LOWERING ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE WITH A COLD FRONT APPROACHING FROM THE WEST WILL MAKE CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR STRONG THUNDERSTORMS LATE TODAY AND EARLY TONIGHT OVER CENTRAL ****** *******.
A FEW OF THESE STORMS MAY REACH SEVERE INTENSITY WITH THE PRIMARY THREAT BEING DAMAGING WIND GUSTS IN EXCESS OF 60 MPH. THERE IS ALSO A POSSIBILITY OF LARGE HAIL GREATER THAN THE SIZE OF PENNIES.
ISOLATED THUNDERSTORM ARE POSSIBLE BEFORE 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON. BUT THE GREATER CHANCES FOR LINE OF STORMS WILL COME AFTER 4 PM AND INTO THE EVENING HOURS. THUNDERSTORMS SHOULD MOVE FROM WEST TO EAST ACROSS ****** AND MAY LAST AS LONG AS MIDNIGHT.
Currently it is around 5pm and we are getting increased clouds...hopefully it will be a rocking storm or nothing at all, I hate the half assed ones.
This is what I have to look forward to for the rest of the night (and being that this kind of thing invariably means power outages...I better find something to occupy my time...haha).
...RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS LATE TODAY AND EARLY TONIGHT...
HOT HUMID AIR AND LOWERING ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE WITH A COLD FRONT APPROACHING FROM THE WEST WILL MAKE CONDITIONS FAVORABLE FOR STRONG THUNDERSTORMS LATE TODAY AND EARLY TONIGHT OVER CENTRAL ****** *******.
A FEW OF THESE STORMS MAY REACH SEVERE INTENSITY WITH THE PRIMARY THREAT BEING DAMAGING WIND GUSTS IN EXCESS OF 60 MPH. THERE IS ALSO A POSSIBILITY OF LARGE HAIL GREATER THAN THE SIZE OF PENNIES.
ISOLATED THUNDERSTORM ARE POSSIBLE BEFORE 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON. BUT THE GREATER CHANCES FOR LINE OF STORMS WILL COME AFTER 4 PM AND INTO THE EVENING HOURS. THUNDERSTORMS SHOULD MOVE FROM WEST TO EAST ACROSS ****** AND MAY LAST AS LONG AS MIDNIGHT.
Currently it is around 5pm and we are getting increased clouds...hopefully it will be a rocking storm or nothing at all, I hate the half assed ones.
No Chicks Yet
I am an idiot...today is only 14 days...I guess I just can't read a calendar..so all hope is not lost, they could hatch this weekend.
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4:09pm June 28, 2005
It has been over two weeks since the Eastern Bluebirds laid their second clutch of eggs for the season. The websites all say 13-14 days so I am starting to get a bit worried. I have an email in to the person that is locally the Bluebird expert and we'll see what she says.
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4:09pm June 28, 2005
It has been over two weeks since the Eastern Bluebirds laid their second clutch of eggs for the season. The websites all say 13-14 days so I am starting to get a bit worried. I have an email in to the person that is locally the Bluebird expert and we'll see what she says.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Numbers
I was feeling pretty good at my 2000+ visitors I have reached (probably mostly my own PC) today until I went to new blog today and saw their meter said 32,000+ since Jan 2005 as well....wow...I don't know if I could ever get those numbers in that amount of time unless I was posting porn (which the site in question was not).
Bush Criticized for Linking 9/11 and Iraq - Yahoo! News
Apparently the PR campaign did not work this time...
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Woman says finger found in Applebee's salad - Yahoo! News
I hope this is another hoax or we are facing a finger epidemic in this country and seriously need to get control of our extremities...
Can We Say Humid?
Currently 76 degrees and 96% humidity...just what I love. Reminds me fondly of a beautiful place in a far away land.
Contacts
I have been wearing contacts since my second year in college and I just only realized in the last couple of months that the letters printed on the contact themselves are there to tell you which way out they are....no more trial and error for me....whooeeee!
Monday, June 27, 2005
I'm Trying
I mean to write, really I do. I have a huge list of Blog ideas, I have just not had the time to sit down and write anything up. Perhaps tonight after I get home, I can get the laptop out and get something jotted down...hang in there.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Lights Out
The lights went out today while I was at the gym. I guess their circuit breaker must have been overloaded with all the electricity they were running to include the A/C. Anyhow, due to the fact that the entire front of the gym is window, we could still workout without the lights (at least in most parts...I am sure the bathrooms were pretty dark).
The weird thing about it is, that it reminded me of being in grade school as a kid in the late spring when it would get hot (and we didn't have A/C in our schools) so the teacher would leave the lights off and, whether it actually did or not, we were convinced it was cooler...
The weird thing about it is, that it reminded me of being in grade school as a kid in the late spring when it would get hot (and we didn't have A/C in our schools) so the teacher would leave the lights off and, whether it actually did or not, we were convinced it was cooler...
Friday, June 24, 2005
A. Retentive...That's What I Am
This is how bad I am....my awesome Pampered Chef peeler (looks like a regular potato peeler but works amazingly better) was in the dishwasher and I needed to peel some cucumber for salad.
I decide to look in our gadget drawer on the off chance (who am I kidding, there is no off chance) that I have a back up peeler in there (basically the old one before I bought the PC one...) and guess what? I did!!! So sad, I know.
I am sure there is medication for this, and if there isn't, perhaps there should be.
I decide to look in our gadget drawer on the off chance (who am I kidding, there is no off chance) that I have a back up peeler in there (basically the old one before I bought the PC one...) and guess what? I did!!! So sad, I know.
I am sure there is medication for this, and if there isn't, perhaps there should be.
Monday, June 20, 2005
CIA has 'excellent' idea where bin Laden is -Time - Yahoo! News
Are these the same people that said we would find WMD in Iraq as well?
Bush fighting to regain confidence of Americans - Yahoo! News
You know, it irritates me when each day the news comes out with some new poll on how approval ratings are doing this or that...it really doesn't matter if more than 50% of Americans NOW think we should have stayed out of Iraq...it doesn't change the fact that we are there and that people are dying...why couldn't those people have made up their minds BEFORE we went to Iraq????
Saturday, June 18, 2005
And Then There Were Four
Well the official and final egg count for the second clutch is at 4. I checked the nest yesterday to take a pic for my sis and there was a fourth egg in there. I think the pic came out pretty good if I don't say so myself....haha.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
We Have Achieved Egg(s)
Update----I checked the nest this morning and there were three little eggs in there. So my first check was in the middle of the laying time...oops...
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Well, as of last night when I was watering, there was one bluebird egg in the nest. I don't think the second and third clutches are as big as the first each year so that might be it.
You should have seen them divebomb this squirrel that ventured too close to the nest box...he didn't know what hit him.
On another note, the birdbath that we finally moved over near the feeders is getting tons of use. We have had some hot weather the last couple of days and the birds are hilarious in that thing. They get in there and just throw water all over the place with their wings until they are completely soaked. There was actually a line of them waiting to use it....
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Well, as of last night when I was watering, there was one bluebird egg in the nest. I don't think the second and third clutches are as big as the first each year so that might be it.
You should have seen them divebomb this squirrel that ventured too close to the nest box...he didn't know what hit him.
On another note, the birdbath that we finally moved over near the feeders is getting tons of use. We have had some hot weather the last couple of days and the birds are hilarious in that thing. They get in there and just throw water all over the place with their wings until they are completely soaked. There was actually a line of them waiting to use it....
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Schiavo Autopsy Shows Massive Brain Damage - Yahoo! News
I am glad this is finally out and he can rest in piece knowing he did the right thing by his wife and her wishes.
All those others that meddled should get "shame on you" fingers waved at them.
All those others that meddled should get "shame on you" fingers waved at them.
Weight Loss
If this week does not do something to push my body into overdrive, I don't know what will.
I am still carrying around the winter coat...even though the scale says I am not, the mirror says I am. I have been trying to be good about not eating too much (we eat pretty healthy, but I think I eat too big of portions most times). I have been drinking diet soda and doing some cardio pretty much everyday but no change.
This week has been a calorie burn from hell and I am hoping that I will see results, and even if I don't, I hope it will motivate me to step it up a notch to get back to the gym more and lift weights. It is so much easier to lose weight when you lift weights at the same time because the extra muscle burns calories too. The only thing is that you usually get smaller (fitter, toner..however you want to put it) but you don't usually go down on the scale much. In my case, I go up on the scale because I pick up muscle mass pretty easily.
It is only Wednesday, and I have ridden my bike for 30 minutes 4 times, have walked for about 5 hours each of the three days and played a 1 hour soccer game on Monday. I have at least 4 more of the 30 minutes rides scheduled, 4 more of the 5 hours of walking and one more 1 hour soccer game before Monday. Oh, and I went to the gym today as well....all of this in over 90 degree temps with tons of humidity...so can we say SWEAT!!!!
I hope to keep up the gym thing and that at the end of all the pain (and I am in pain, especially those little butt bones you sit on a bike with), I will have gained something if nothing more than motivation to continue.
I am still carrying around the winter coat...even though the scale says I am not, the mirror says I am. I have been trying to be good about not eating too much (we eat pretty healthy, but I think I eat too big of portions most times). I have been drinking diet soda and doing some cardio pretty much everyday but no change.
This week has been a calorie burn from hell and I am hoping that I will see results, and even if I don't, I hope it will motivate me to step it up a notch to get back to the gym more and lift weights. It is so much easier to lose weight when you lift weights at the same time because the extra muscle burns calories too. The only thing is that you usually get smaller (fitter, toner..however you want to put it) but you don't usually go down on the scale much. In my case, I go up on the scale because I pick up muscle mass pretty easily.
It is only Wednesday, and I have ridden my bike for 30 minutes 4 times, have walked for about 5 hours each of the three days and played a 1 hour soccer game on Monday. I have at least 4 more of the 30 minutes rides scheduled, 4 more of the 5 hours of walking and one more 1 hour soccer game before Monday. Oh, and I went to the gym today as well....all of this in over 90 degree temps with tons of humidity...so can we say SWEAT!!!!
I hope to keep up the gym thing and that at the end of all the pain (and I am in pain, especially those little butt bones you sit on a bike with), I will have gained something if nothing more than motivation to continue.
Information?
I was at Lowe's the other day looking at different bottles of pesticides (I know....bad, bad, but when you live in cockroach land and you are afraid of cockroaches, you have to take extreme measures), and I kept getting asked by other shoppers about the products.
I don't know if I was wearing a shirt that looked like I worked there, or if I just looked like I knew something about bug spray but for some reason, I kept getting asked which product was better, what to do about red ants, cockroaches and such...it was very strange.
I was glad to help where I could, although I am far from an expert, but I just thought it was curious that I looked like I had the answers...I wish I could look like that more often.
I don't know if I was wearing a shirt that looked like I worked there, or if I just looked like I knew something about bug spray but for some reason, I kept getting asked which product was better, what to do about red ants, cockroaches and such...it was very strange.
I was glad to help where I could, although I am far from an expert, but I just thought it was curious that I looked like I had the answers...I wish I could look like that more often.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Banned Contractor Soliciting Iraq Deals - Yahoo! News
I makes me sick that anyone could use this war as an opportunity to get rich by scheming and cheating the very people they claim to be loyal to.
I am embarrassed for all these former "soldiers" (I put it in quotations because they don't deserve to be called soldiers), and for anyone that is doing business for them.
This however is just another perfect example how the administration was not prepared. There is nothing in place to monitor all these companies that are contracted and that in itself lends to corruption and greed.
I am embarrassed for all these former "soldiers" (I put it in quotations because they don't deserve to be called soldiers), and for anyone that is doing business for them.
This however is just another perfect example how the administration was not prepared. There is nothing in place to monitor all these companies that are contracted and that in itself lends to corruption and greed.
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Pavlov's Dog
I admit it, I am a creature of habit.
When we lived in Japan, we would get paid in US Dollars but in order to pay our rent, and utilities, we had to have Yen (they don't really do checks there). So near the end of every month, I would withdraw the money from the bank, and take it to a superstore called Jusco. At Jusco they had two machines provided by an inhouse bank to exchange US Dollars to Japanese Yen. Everyone knew that Jusco had an equal or better rate than anywhere else locally so sometimes the line would be long to exchange money.
After exchanging my money, I would peruse the store, usually picking out some sushi and a canned sweet iced tea for lunch. This became a bit of a habit. If I didn't get sushi from Jusco, then I would head across the street to a conveyor belt sushi bar (we affectionately called "Sushi-Go-Round"), and eat my fill there for lunch with some green tea on the side.
Now it seems that every time I go to run errands, I get a hankering for sushi. Fortunately for me, the grocery store I shop at has an inhouse sushi bar so I have been able to quench that thirst each time. I have to wonder if, when I am old and tired, will running to the pharmacy for my multitude of medications will induce sushi cravings or not. Can you tell I just got home from running errands, and boy was that sushi good?!
When we lived in Japan, we would get paid in US Dollars but in order to pay our rent, and utilities, we had to have Yen (they don't really do checks there). So near the end of every month, I would withdraw the money from the bank, and take it to a superstore called Jusco. At Jusco they had two machines provided by an inhouse bank to exchange US Dollars to Japanese Yen. Everyone knew that Jusco had an equal or better rate than anywhere else locally so sometimes the line would be long to exchange money.
After exchanging my money, I would peruse the store, usually picking out some sushi and a canned sweet iced tea for lunch. This became a bit of a habit. If I didn't get sushi from Jusco, then I would head across the street to a conveyor belt sushi bar (we affectionately called "Sushi-Go-Round"), and eat my fill there for lunch with some green tea on the side.
Now it seems that every time I go to run errands, I get a hankering for sushi. Fortunately for me, the grocery store I shop at has an inhouse sushi bar so I have been able to quench that thirst each time. I have to wonder if, when I am old and tired, will running to the pharmacy for my multitude of medications will induce sushi cravings or not. Can you tell I just got home from running errands, and boy was that sushi good?!
Friday, June 10, 2005
Congradulations
My sis is graduating tonight with her Associates degree, and even though I could not be there, I wanted to announce to the world how proud I am of her...so here you go world, "I am so proud of you, sis".
I wish I could have been there, but the airlines did not cooperate with me so I am stuck here while the rest of my family is celebrating their butts off...
Congrats little sis, you are awesome.
I wish I could have been there, but the airlines did not cooperate with me so I am stuck here while the rest of my family is celebrating their butts off...
Congrats little sis, you are awesome.
Hip Flexors
Played soccer for my second day this week. Only the one game this time...now that I have a correct schedule. Anyhow, I ate better this time so I was not too full but still had lots of energy to run around and that made my performance at least more energenic if not better (skill-wise).
Now my hip flexors are killing me from sprinting up and down the field chasing men that run much faster than me....ugh!!!!
Now my hip flexors are killing me from sprinting up and down the field chasing men that run much faster than me....ugh!!!!
Come On
Girls...if you are dripping enough to leave piss on the toilet rim and on the floor, you did not wipe well enough!!!!!
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Soccer
I had my first soccer game last night. I was a bit nervous about it throughout the day but nothing too crazy. I showed up on time to find out that our team didn't play until the later game. I settled in for watching a game when one of the teams announced they didn't have enough players to start and would I mind filling in. So I did.
It was warm and muggy with thunderstorms looming but it started to downpour halfway through so that cooled things off a bit. I ended up playing the whole game for them. I was pretty much smoked after a few minutes as it has been 9 months since I played and I am so out of "running" shape. I exercise pretty regularly but running is not usually part of my program. I basically only run if there is a soccer ball involved.
We had started late so the team I actually play on was there when the game finished up. I introduced myself and switched jerseys to play again. Fortunately our team had extra players so I didn't play the entire second game. I am sure my muscles and feet are very thankful. We won by quite a margin, but then there are some awesome players on our team. It was a lot of fun, even if we didn't get out of there until an hour after we were supposed to due to the late start.
I have another game tonight, which hopefully will be easier on my body than last night.
It was warm and muggy with thunderstorms looming but it started to downpour halfway through so that cooled things off a bit. I ended up playing the whole game for them. I was pretty much smoked after a few minutes as it has been 9 months since I played and I am so out of "running" shape. I exercise pretty regularly but running is not usually part of my program. I basically only run if there is a soccer ball involved.
We had started late so the team I actually play on was there when the game finished up. I introduced myself and switched jerseys to play again. Fortunately our team had extra players so I didn't play the entire second game. I am sure my muscles and feet are very thankful. We won by quite a margin, but then there are some awesome players on our team. It was a lot of fun, even if we didn't get out of there until an hour after we were supposed to due to the late start.
I have another game tonight, which hopefully will be easier on my body than last night.
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Another Thunderstorm Day
We have had thunderstorms every evening for the last couple of days. We are once again in thunderstorm watch today. Last night we had a terrific storm and a ton of rain (about 1 inch an hour, the news said). Today they are saying possible marble sized hail and 2-4 inches in an hour...should definitely add some spice to the evening.
Please note that thunderstorms usually mean power outages as well. I have everything in this house of any value plugged into hefty surge protectors. Yesterday, the power went out while I was at Lowes, but apparently they have their registers on back up power because we were still able to shop and check out, there were just no lights inside the store. Good thing I was in the garden center...haha.
Please note that thunderstorms usually mean power outages as well. I have everything in this house of any value plugged into hefty surge protectors. Yesterday, the power went out while I was at Lowes, but apparently they have their registers on back up power because we were still able to shop and check out, there were just no lights inside the store. Good thing I was in the garden center...haha.
UPS
Waiting for UPS to come is like watching water boil...I know if I were to leave the house, they would come right away but because I am sitting here waiting for them, they won't be here until the end of the day when I won't have time to do any of my other errands...
I have to be here because I have to sign for this package, they can't just leave it, or I would be gone in a heartbeat.
I have to be here because I have to sign for this package, they can't just leave it, or I would be gone in a heartbeat.
Bluebirds Are At It Again
I just cleaned out the old nest from the cavity nestbox this last weekend. This is what the BB Society website tells you to do, but was still afraid that they wouldn't come back if they had to do so much work for the next clutch of eggs.
I just spied the female in my yard grabbing pinestraw and stuffing it into the nest box so I guess they are planning to return for the next clutch. I am thrilled because I really didn't want to drive them away...and after the death of that Cardinal chick, I am looking forward to something positive in the bird arena.
I just spied the female in my yard grabbing pinestraw and stuffing it into the nest box so I guess they are planning to return for the next clutch. I am thrilled because I really didn't want to drive them away...and after the death of that Cardinal chick, I am looking forward to something positive in the bird arena.
Monday, June 06, 2005
Forced To Do It
Well, we reached that temp where I have to turn on the AC or have warm floating fish in my tank...
It is not any hotter than the previous post about this subject but it has maintained it for a few days and that is enough to get the tank nice and warm. I have been dropping ice cubes (probably not the best thing) in there to cool it down some but it is still hovering around 84-86 degrees which is really limit of what they can take.
So I broke down, closed all the windows, shut the shades and set the AC at 80 degrees. That should be enough to keep them in the cool range without over killing my need for warmth and low utility bills...I might be able to turn it off at night since the temps are lower then and the house will already be coolish.
I am bummed because I think the AC is what makes the outdoors feel hotter and muggier than it really is. Oh well, for the good of the fish, it is okay for now. I am sure it will get hotter later and I'll be glad we have the option.
It is not any hotter than the previous post about this subject but it has maintained it for a few days and that is enough to get the tank nice and warm. I have been dropping ice cubes (probably not the best thing) in there to cool it down some but it is still hovering around 84-86 degrees which is really limit of what they can take.
So I broke down, closed all the windows, shut the shades and set the AC at 80 degrees. That should be enough to keep them in the cool range without over killing my need for warmth and low utility bills...I might be able to turn it off at night since the temps are lower then and the house will already be coolish.
I am bummed because I think the AC is what makes the outdoors feel hotter and muggier than it really is. Oh well, for the good of the fish, it is okay for now. I am sure it will get hotter later and I'll be glad we have the option.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Happy Birthday Daddy
Today is my Dad's birthday. I hope he is having fun and doing something cool. Unfortunately we are on opposite sides of the US right now, or I would be celebrating with him. My brother (in law's) birthday is tomorrow and when we are all on the same coast it has been tradition to do a dual celebration the weekend of...too bad we can't do it this year.
You guys are in our thoughts and we hope you both have great days...
You guys are in our thoughts and we hope you both have great days...
The Beaufort Gazette: World watching South Carolina on geocaching
Geocaching is not a crime. I came across the above article today while looking for some caches for a trip I might be going on soon.
While I do agree, that there are some bad eggs that will do whatever it takes to find a cache (trample vegetation, trespass on private property, litter or worse), the majority of geocachers are just outdoor enthusiasts who have found a new way to enjoy the outdoors.
In my years of geocaching, most of the caches I have found have taken me to places I would never have seen otherwise. It has always been awe inspiring and educational, and I can't believe that South Carolina would even consider making it against the law even just for historical or National Registered sites. That would be a shame.
I also find it hysterical that an editorial is quoted in the article to imply that only people from the South treasure and respect historical sites, state owned properties, and cemeteries. Give me a break.
Rationality would dictate that those that have broken the law by defacing a grave marker or trampling protected plants, would be punished but to make a law to encompass all geocachers is not the answer. Deal with the individuals that are committing the crimes and leave the rest of us alone.
While I do agree, that there are some bad eggs that will do whatever it takes to find a cache (trample vegetation, trespass on private property, litter or worse), the majority of geocachers are just outdoor enthusiasts who have found a new way to enjoy the outdoors.
In my years of geocaching, most of the caches I have found have taken me to places I would never have seen otherwise. It has always been awe inspiring and educational, and I can't believe that South Carolina would even consider making it against the law even just for historical or National Registered sites. That would be a shame.
I also find it hysterical that an editorial is quoted in the article to imply that only people from the South treasure and respect historical sites, state owned properties, and cemeteries. Give me a break.
Rationality would dictate that those that have broken the law by defacing a grave marker or trampling protected plants, would be punished but to make a law to encompass all geocachers is not the answer. Deal with the individuals that are committing the crimes and leave the rest of us alone.
Friday, June 03, 2005
Golfing
I currently reside in a golf intensive area of the US. Fortunately for me, I enjoy golf. It is not really about the competition or anything (although I do like to hit the ball well if possible), it is about the atmosphere.
As long as I don't have some idiot behind me rushing me along so they can play 36 holes in 2 hours, I really just enjoy being out on the course. It is like taking a very long stroll through a park that you hit a little white ball in once in a while. My favorites are courses that are in urban areas, because it is like a little green oasis that kind of blots out in your mind that you are in the middle of a city. It is so refreshing....
So anyhow, even though I live in this golf intensive area, I have not golfed in a few months. Most of the golfing here is pretty expensive and I just recently received new clubs that J's grandpa made for me. Today was the first time I got to play with them on the course (I have hit them on the range once and in the backyard a bit). They are much nicer than my old beginner clubs and the fact that I know they were made especially for me, makes them all the bit nicer to play with.
So I got out, got some exercise, used some muscles that have been dormant for a while, breathed some fresh air and enjoyed the green lush vegetation. It has been quite rainy here for a few days so it was cool, but a bit muggy and there were lots of bugs out. I still had a great time and can't wait to go again.
As long as I don't have some idiot behind me rushing me along so they can play 36 holes in 2 hours, I really just enjoy being out on the course. It is like taking a very long stroll through a park that you hit a little white ball in once in a while. My favorites are courses that are in urban areas, because it is like a little green oasis that kind of blots out in your mind that you are in the middle of a city. It is so refreshing....
So anyhow, even though I live in this golf intensive area, I have not golfed in a few months. Most of the golfing here is pretty expensive and I just recently received new clubs that J's grandpa made for me. Today was the first time I got to play with them on the course (I have hit them on the range once and in the backyard a bit). They are much nicer than my old beginner clubs and the fact that I know they were made especially for me, makes them all the bit nicer to play with.
So I got out, got some exercise, used some muscles that have been dormant for a while, breathed some fresh air and enjoyed the green lush vegetation. It has been quite rainy here for a few days so it was cool, but a bit muggy and there were lots of bugs out. I still had a great time and can't wait to go again.
Kid Songs
Why is it that every new horror movie out these days has to take an innocent song or rhyme from my childhood and turn it into a theme for a horror movie?
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Sad News
It seems that one of the Cardinal babies did not make it. It has been in the nest, not moving for a couple of days now. The parents have given up...they were trying to get it to come out for a while...I was so sad to see it, especially since it has been raining here and that makes it look even more sad and cold.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
California appeals judge's ruling on gay marriage - Yahoo! News
Regardless of which side of this issue that you stand, the fact is that the Constitution does not cover marriage, and should not start to.
The Constitution covers in broad strokes what the government is obligated to do for its people. It is not written to "ban" things or discriminate. Then the "right" to get married gets brought up like it is in one of the amendments or something....wrong...it is not. There is no "right" to marriage for anyone. The amendments are written to limit the government's actions on the people in broad strokes as well.
I can't see where the argument for or against gay marriage falls under any kind of "Constitutional" rule. Heterosexual marriage is not covered in the Constitution. The Constitution would be ruined if it is changed to allow for discrimination. While I understand this issue is something that needs to be resolved, I don't think bringing the Constitution into it will do anything positive and may end up doing permanent damage.
The whole argument of the sanctity of marriage is a bunch of crap as well. We are talking about a history of arranged marriages, fly by the night marriages, teenage marriages, Las Vegas marriages, golddigging marriages, oopsIgotyoupregnant marriages, and immigration marriages but somehow letting two people that love each other get married is going to ruin the sanctity...give me a break.
The Constitution covers in broad strokes what the government is obligated to do for its people. It is not written to "ban" things or discriminate. Then the "right" to get married gets brought up like it is in one of the amendments or something....wrong...it is not. There is no "right" to marriage for anyone. The amendments are written to limit the government's actions on the people in broad strokes as well.
I can't see where the argument for or against gay marriage falls under any kind of "Constitutional" rule. Heterosexual marriage is not covered in the Constitution. The Constitution would be ruined if it is changed to allow for discrimination. While I understand this issue is something that needs to be resolved, I don't think bringing the Constitution into it will do anything positive and may end up doing permanent damage.
The whole argument of the sanctity of marriage is a bunch of crap as well. We are talking about a history of arranged marriages, fly by the night marriages, teenage marriages, Las Vegas marriages, golddigging marriages, oopsIgotyoupregnant marriages, and immigration marriages but somehow letting two people that love each other get married is going to ruin the sanctity...give me a break.
Yeah, this really makes me want to buy chicken... - Yahoo! News
Wow, the UK is getting as bad as the US with complaints...come on, bad manners and insults to handicap people? Are they serious?
It is just a commercial people, not the letter of the law. It is called the off button, just use it once in a while, get outside and don't sweat the small shit. Life is too short as it is to worry about this kind of crap. Bitch about it on your blog and then move on....
It is just a commercial people, not the letter of the law. It is called the off button, just use it once in a while, get outside and don't sweat the small shit. Life is too short as it is to worry about this kind of crap. Bitch about it on your blog and then move on....
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Hopping Babies
One of the baby Cardinals is out of the nest hopping around on the ground trying to learn to fly...it is so cute. I am hoping to get a pic or some video of it but I don't want to make the mom too nervous, so we will see...
Monday, May 30, 2005
Laura Bush/Hillary Clinton presidential matchup? - Yahoo! News
I am sorry but who was it that said they wanted a "Bush dynasty"...wow, talk about slip of the tongue...
Guide gives four 'paws' for pet-friendliness - Yahoo! News
Last time I had to travel with a pet, it took a lot of searching to find Internet sites that would list "pet-friendly" hotels...we need a book like this for the US too (hopefully animal abandonment for vacation reasons is not as high as it is in Italy, but we could still use the book).
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Red Cardinal
I just discovered this afternoon a Red Cardinal nest in the holly bush outside my office window.
I kept hearing periodic chirping when I was on the computer and finally today, investigated. I found the nest but didn't know the bird type until just now when one of the parents came by to feed the little ones.
Perhaps I will get to see these ones take flight soon as I missed the opportunity with the bluebirds out back.
I kept hearing periodic chirping when I was on the computer and finally today, investigated. I found the nest but didn't know the bird type until just now when one of the parents came by to feed the little ones.
Perhaps I will get to see these ones take flight soon as I missed the opportunity with the bluebirds out back.
Friday, May 27, 2005
OCD
Don't you hate it when you put something you care about in a "special" place so it won't disappear on you or get ruined, and then you can't remember where the "special" place is?
I just found, by accident, something I have been missing for over 6 months now in a "special" place...my organizational skills are so boardline OCD land isn't not even funny.
I just found, by accident, something I have been missing for over 6 months now in a "special" place...my organizational skills are so boardline OCD land isn't not even funny.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Cliffhanger
Ugh!!!! I hate them...both Alias and Lost had cliffhanger end of seasons last night. I have never liked cliffhangers, I know why they do them but I still hate it.\
It doesn't make me anymore likely to watch it next season, and I would love closure each time...but of course that is not how they like to market. It is probably mostly me, since I can stand waiting for the next in a series of books either...sometimes I just wait until they are all available...isn't that terrible?
It doesn't make me anymore likely to watch it next season, and I would love closure each time...but of course that is not how they like to market. It is probably mostly me, since I can stand waiting for the next in a series of books either...sometimes I just wait until they are all available...isn't that terrible?
Flew the Coop
Or nest in this case. I didn't see the parent bluebirds around at all the last couple of days so I started to get worried. Unfortunately, we are right in the period that they say is bad to check on the nest so I have been avoiding it.
Tonight while hitting some golf balls, it was just too much for me and curiousity won out. I checked the nest and they are all gone...guess they flew away over the weekend because the babies were in there on Saturday during our party....
I'll leave it alone for a few more days just in case, but then I will take the nest out (you are supposed to) so they can start with a new nest for the next clutch. Apparently they will lay two more times this summer...we'll see if they come back.
Tonight while hitting some golf balls, it was just too much for me and curiousity won out. I checked the nest and they are all gone...guess they flew away over the weekend because the babies were in there on Saturday during our party....
I'll leave it alone for a few more days just in case, but then I will take the nest out (you are supposed to) so they can start with a new nest for the next clutch. Apparently they will lay two more times this summer...we'll see if they come back.
Lawsuit says school violated free-speech rights - Yahoo! News
Regardless of whether her rights were violated or not, I find it hard to believe that her kindergarten aged child has the Bible as their favorite book....that is just her excuse to push her agenda without regard for her child. Think of the harrassment that poor child is probably getting because their favorite book is not Barney, or the Velveteen Rabbit...
Suspect pilots could still walk, jury told - Yahoo! News
I can't believe that the defense actually believes they can use a "not operating the plane" argument because when they were arrested the plane was still being towed.
That would be like telling the police officer when they pulled someone over for drunk driving that at that moment they weren't driving the car, it was on the side of the road idling....duh....weren't they being towed to the runway to take off???
That would be like telling the police officer when they pulled someone over for drunk driving that at that moment they weren't driving the car, it was on the side of the road idling....duh....weren't they being towed to the runway to take off???
Interpret This
Float On by Modest Mouse |
"Bad news comes don't you worry even when it lands Good news will work its way to all them plans" Laid back and real, people appreciated you for you are in 2004. |
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Party's Over
We had our little cookout and it went over well. We got to see a lot of people that we haven't seen in a while and that was terrific. It was our first get together in the new house and it was fun to share it with our friends.
We ate a lot, drank a lot, and reminisced about everything and anything....stories were told that some of us would probably want to keep under wraps and others were fictionized to make them more entertaining.
Today was a lazy catch up day, and it was nice to just take it easy and relax. Tomorrow, it is back to the grind...haha. Anyhow, haven't been able to get on the computer this weekend much and just wanted to do a little catch up....that is what today was for, right?
We ate a lot, drank a lot, and reminisced about everything and anything....stories were told that some of us would probably want to keep under wraps and others were fictionized to make them more entertaining.
Today was a lazy catch up day, and it was nice to just take it easy and relax. Tomorrow, it is back to the grind...haha. Anyhow, haven't been able to get on the computer this weekend much and just wanted to do a little catch up....that is what today was for, right?
Friday, May 20, 2005
Photos of Underwear-Clad Saddam Published - Yahoo! News
And the idiocity just continues to go on and on and on...
Here Comes The Sun (Not!)
I am beginning to wonder if the sun is going to come out today. It has been raining and thunder and lightening here since about 5am and it is so dark in my office right now, I need to use the lights.
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Baggers
I went grocery shopping today for our cookout this weekend, and I finally remembered to bring in my brown paper bags to reuse them (as we don't have mixed paper recycling readily available so I have a ton of these bags, and I hate to thrown them in the trash).
I think it must have thrown the baggers off because I swear I got the worst bagging job I have ever seen...ugh!!
I think it must have thrown the baggers off because I swear I got the worst bagging job I have ever seen...ugh!!
Guilt
Why is it that I feel guilty eating tuna fish in front of my pet fish? Do you think they know?
Everytime I crack a can of tuna these days, I get this weird little voice that says "Don't let the fish see you". I have only had fish for 6 months so this is new to me and they are stationed pretty close to the kitchen. I catch myself turning my back so they can't see what I am doing....I know, I am a crack pot...haha.
Everytime I crack a can of tuna these days, I get this weird little voice that says "Don't let the fish see you". I have only had fish for 6 months so this is new to me and they are stationed pretty close to the kitchen. I catch myself turning my back so they can't see what I am doing....I know, I am a crack pot...haha.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
10 Years of Mishka
Stole this from Joanne, who stole it from Cat.
10 years ago:
I was twenty-something.
I was living on the East Coast while my husband of three years attended school.
I was missing my family on the West Coast a lot.
I had a lot of debt and not much money.
I met a lot of my husband's family for the first time.
I had just discovered email.
I visited Washington DC, and New York as we drove up the East Coast for Christmas.
I had only one cat named Madison who I had had since high school.
I watched my sister go through the worst year of her life.
I had a bachelor's degree under my belt.
I had only a few close friends, one that was local.
5 years ago:
I was in between twenty-something and thirty-something.
I was living on the West Coast.
I had two cats, one named Madison, one named Chase, who we had just adopted.
I was getting ready to move to Japan.
I had a network admin certificate under my belt.
I had a pretty good job with easy hours and fun people.
I was playing soccer again pretty regularly.
I was living in the house we bought three years before.
I was spending a lot of time with my family.
I was becoming very skilled on computers.
I was not writing, singing, doing art, or playing music much.
I was too busy a lot of the time to really enjoy things.
I finally paid off my school loans and we were completely out of debt (minus the mortgage).
3 years ago:
I was thirty-something.
I was living in Japan.
I had started my graduate program.
I had both kitties, they made the trip with flying colors.
I had my house on the West Coast rented but was not happy with my rental company.
I was writing and reading more.
I was exercising more.
I was skinnier than I had been in a while.
I was tanner than I had been in a while.
I had been to Thailand a few times, and was getting ready to go to Cambodia, and Vietnam, and Australia.
I had a close knit group of friends.
I was having a lot of fun and adventures.
My grandmother on my biological father's side died.
I was playing soccer on the weekends.
I was investing pretty heavily in our futures.
I was experiencing some amazing cultures.
1 year ago:
I was thirty-something.
I was living in Japan but getting ready to move back to the US.
I was planning our trips to China and Tokyo.
I had both cats but was only a few weeks away from finding out terrible news about Madison and having to put her to sleep.
I had refinanced our house on the West Coast but it wasn't rented.
I was playing soccer.
I was still tan and fit.
I was still doing the graduate student thing.
I built my own computer and it worked great.
I was stressing about the move enough to make me vomit and feel terrible.
The close knit group of friends had dissipated but I had made two new fabulous ones.
I was being creative again for the first time in a while.
Today:
I am still thirty-something (and plan to be so until the end of time).
I am living on the East Coast again.
I am still doing graduate school but at a slower pace.
I am living in the second home that we have purchased.
I still have the home on the West Coast and it is rented to some great people and our rental company is much better.
I am missing Japan, my friends there, and my family an awful lot but am getting accustomed to my new surroundings.
I am writing more than I ever had.
I am reading a lot.
I am still exercising but did gain some weight over the winter (nothing drastic, but I noticed it).
I am so much paler than I have been in 5 years.
I am getting ready to celebrate my 13th anniversary this year.
I only have one cat, Chase but she is enough to handle right now.
I am getting excited about having our first visitors to our new location this summer.
I am looking forward to some new adventures in this part of the world.
10 years ago:
I was twenty-something.
I was living on the East Coast while my husband of three years attended school.
I was missing my family on the West Coast a lot.
I had a lot of debt and not much money.
I met a lot of my husband's family for the first time.
I had just discovered email.
I visited Washington DC, and New York as we drove up the East Coast for Christmas.
I had only one cat named Madison who I had had since high school.
I watched my sister go through the worst year of her life.
I had a bachelor's degree under my belt.
I had only a few close friends, one that was local.
5 years ago:
I was in between twenty-something and thirty-something.
I was living on the West Coast.
I had two cats, one named Madison, one named Chase, who we had just adopted.
I was getting ready to move to Japan.
I had a network admin certificate under my belt.
I had a pretty good job with easy hours and fun people.
I was playing soccer again pretty regularly.
I was living in the house we bought three years before.
I was spending a lot of time with my family.
I was becoming very skilled on computers.
I was not writing, singing, doing art, or playing music much.
I was too busy a lot of the time to really enjoy things.
I finally paid off my school loans and we were completely out of debt (minus the mortgage).
3 years ago:
I was thirty-something.
I was living in Japan.
I had started my graduate program.
I had both kitties, they made the trip with flying colors.
I had my house on the West Coast rented but was not happy with my rental company.
I was writing and reading more.
I was exercising more.
I was skinnier than I had been in a while.
I was tanner than I had been in a while.
I had been to Thailand a few times, and was getting ready to go to Cambodia, and Vietnam, and Australia.
I had a close knit group of friends.
I was having a lot of fun and adventures.
My grandmother on my biological father's side died.
I was playing soccer on the weekends.
I was investing pretty heavily in our futures.
I was experiencing some amazing cultures.
1 year ago:
I was thirty-something.
I was living in Japan but getting ready to move back to the US.
I was planning our trips to China and Tokyo.
I had both cats but was only a few weeks away from finding out terrible news about Madison and having to put her to sleep.
I had refinanced our house on the West Coast but it wasn't rented.
I was playing soccer.
I was still tan and fit.
I was still doing the graduate student thing.
I built my own computer and it worked great.
I was stressing about the move enough to make me vomit and feel terrible.
The close knit group of friends had dissipated but I had made two new fabulous ones.
I was being creative again for the first time in a while.
Today:
I am still thirty-something (and plan to be so until the end of time).
I am living on the East Coast again.
I am still doing graduate school but at a slower pace.
I am living in the second home that we have purchased.
I still have the home on the West Coast and it is rented to some great people and our rental company is much better.
I am missing Japan, my friends there, and my family an awful lot but am getting accustomed to my new surroundings.
I am writing more than I ever had.
I am reading a lot.
I am still exercising but did gain some weight over the winter (nothing drastic, but I noticed it).
I am so much paler than I have been in 5 years.
I am getting ready to celebrate my 13th anniversary this year.
I only have one cat, Chase but she is enough to handle right now.
I am getting excited about having our first visitors to our new location this summer.
I am looking forward to some new adventures in this part of the world.
Chirping
Last night when I was sweeping the back patio, I heard the first little peeps from the bluebird nest. I guess they must have their eyes open now. The website says to stop checking on them after they are about 14 days old because they might get scared and try to fly out of the nest too early. I have a week or so before they reach that age...
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Inspired
I was inspired today by Randi and the fact that I am having a cookout at my house this weekend, to finally get the rest of my decorating done.
We have lived in this house since November and I tapped my last nail today (at least for awhile). I am so thrilled to not have that hanging over my head. Even if it doesn't stay the way it is right now forever (and probably shouldn't) at least it is done!!!!
I also moved two rooms around (one stayed and one was mostly moved back)...so I got my work out in as well...whooeee!!!
We have lived in this house since November and I tapped my last nail today (at least for awhile). I am so thrilled to not have that hanging over my head. Even if it doesn't stay the way it is right now forever (and probably shouldn't) at least it is done!!!!
I also moved two rooms around (one stayed and one was mostly moved back)...so I got my work out in as well...whooeee!!!
Hostilities
Apparently the bluebirds do not like the blue jays coming near the feeder (which is not far from their nest). I haven't seen them irritated by any other birds like they were with this bluejay this morning. They chased him right out of the yard, dive bombing him in pairs until he was gone.
Maybe the blue confuses them....I am pretty sure the jay was just trying to eat at the feeder and didn't mean them any harm but who knows.
Maybe the blue confuses them....I am pretty sure the jay was just trying to eat at the feeder and didn't mean them any harm but who knows.
Court to rehear bartender's lipstick lawsuit - Yahoo! News
If they want to do a "Beverage Department Image Transformation", they should require the men to wear the makeup....haha.
Monday, May 16, 2005
Thunder and Lightening
I like how they play thunder sounds at the grocery store before the mist comes on in the produce department....very imaginative.
Newsweek Apologizes; Afghans Want Action - Yahoo! News
I can't believe that they didn't verify their sources before printing this. They had to know what kind of reaction it would get. Now there are at least 15 people dead for no reason at all...pointless.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
It's Official
Yeah!! I got an A in my class!! I can't believe it, really I can't. I am so thrilled and now I have the summer to relax...minus the math work I will get to do helping J in his class...but I am a math geek and actually sit jealously watching him do problems...what a dork I am.
Father's Day Cards
Okay, Father's Day is creeping up on us. While I was at the store yesterday, I figured I would just buy cards before they are all picked over and there is nothing left to choose from. How wrong was I? Not that there weren't plenty of cards to pick from, because there were, but they all sucked.
I am so sick of cliché cards...like all fathers sit around in recliners, drink beer, play sports, belch, fart, and like to work on cars...no, they all don't. Then the other option is to go with the sappy suckass ones that just make me want to puke...whatever happened to cool cards?
I wish Fresh Ink made Father's Day cards because I love Fresh Ink cards from Hallmark,...oh and I might mention that the card selection I was looking through was American Greetings. They usually have decent cards. I like their Just My Style ones, although they are getting redundant and old as well.
The quest was not a complete loss, I did find cards to cover all the father figures that we usually buy cards for (dads, stepdads, granpas...) but it was slim pickings let me tell you. Just more affirmation that I need to start making my own cards...which I fully plan to do (and is the only reason I can excuse my expenses in the stamp and stationary arena) but I have so many other things on the "To Do" list that taking the time to make cards is not feasible right now. I may resort back to the tissue and pipe cleaner flower cards I used to make my parents before I knew what Hallmark was.
I am so sick of cliché cards...like all fathers sit around in recliners, drink beer, play sports, belch, fart, and like to work on cars...no, they all don't. Then the other option is to go with the sappy suckass ones that just make me want to puke...whatever happened to cool cards?
I wish Fresh Ink made Father's Day cards because I love Fresh Ink cards from Hallmark,...oh and I might mention that the card selection I was looking through was American Greetings. They usually have decent cards. I like their Just My Style ones, although they are getting redundant and old as well.
The quest was not a complete loss, I did find cards to cover all the father figures that we usually buy cards for (dads, stepdads, granpas...) but it was slim pickings let me tell you. Just more affirmation that I need to start making my own cards...which I fully plan to do (and is the only reason I can excuse my expenses in the stamp and stationary arena) but I have so many other things on the "To Do" list that taking the time to make cards is not feasible right now. I may resort back to the tissue and pipe cleaner flower cards I used to make my parents before I knew what Hallmark was.
Deputies Apologize for L.A. Shooting - Yahoo! News
This might turn out to be a case of mistaken identity of sorts, and the county might be paying lots in damages to both the affected residents, and Hayes. This is of course assuming that Hayes ultimately doesn't end up being guilty of a crime.
Fortunately, in this specific case, they did not kill Hayes, but the Sheriff's department will also have to look at, how after firing 120 rounds, their officers only put 4 on the intended target and managed to hit each other and several surrounding buildings instead? Sounds like marksmanship needs to be at the top of the "To Do List".
Fortunately, in this specific case, they did not kill Hayes, but the Sheriff's department will also have to look at, how after firing 120 rounds, their officers only put 4 on the intended target and managed to hit each other and several surrounding buildings instead? Sounds like marksmanship needs to be at the top of the "To Do List".
Calif. police find hand that lost Wendy's finger - Yahoo! News
I guess what I don't understand is why she is not being charged with grand larceny rather than "attempted grand larceny". If Wendy's lost the business because of her, then she in fact stole it from them. Just because she didn't ultimately end up with it, should not factor in, right?
Friday, May 13, 2005
And Then There Were Four
Last count, we have four chicks and 1 egg left. Perhaps tomorrow the last egg will hatch...so cool.
Waiting in Lines
That is what I spent a lot of my day doing. It wasn't as irritating as it usually is but by the fourth line or so...I realized how much time I was wasting...I should have brought a book with me (I am usually good about that), and I could have been multitasking.
Oh well, I am home now, I guess I should get to work.
Oh well, I am home now, I guess I should get to work.
Don't Want Them to Fry
Apparently when it gets warm here, even if it is not hot to us, I am going to have to turn on our AC so my fish don't overheat.
We are used to much warmer temperatures than what we are expecting to have this summer but yesterday, when we got up into the 90s, my fish tank reached 82 degrees. Much more than that, and the fish can't take it.
Funny to think I have to warm their water in the winter and now to keep it cool in the summer, I will need to use the AC....ha ha. Who would have thought?
We are used to much warmer temperatures than what we are expecting to have this summer but yesterday, when we got up into the 90s, my fish tank reached 82 degrees. Much more than that, and the fish can't take it.
Funny to think I have to warm their water in the winter and now to keep it cool in the summer, I will need to use the AC....ha ha. Who would have thought?
Thursday, May 12, 2005
We Have Chicks
I checked the bluebird's nest this morning and the 5 little eggs have turned into 3 chicks and two eggs...they are so small and fragile looking.
This picture is from the web, I don't have any yet that I have taken.
This picture is from the web, I don't have any yet that I have taken.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Corona
Eighty degrees, afternoon breeze, shade on the patio. J is cooking up a couple of steaks for us on the BBQ and we have both just cracked open a Corona with lemon in it.
Feels like summer to me but the first taste of Corona always takes me back to Spring Breaks with friends from college in San Felipe BC Mexico...it is amazing how simple life was then and how much I still wanted to be a "grown up". What was I thinking???
Feels like summer to me but the first taste of Corona always takes me back to Spring Breaks with friends from college in San Felipe BC Mexico...it is amazing how simple life was then and how much I still wanted to be a "grown up". What was I thinking???
Grades Are Coming In
Well today, I got my research paper grade of 95% and my class participation grade of 95%. So unless I am a complete math dork (which I am not since I actually majored in math for a while in college), I should get an A in the class overall. We don't have our official transcript grades posted to the system yet but the classroom grades are all in now.
In an online environment, participation means contributing to the conferences in the classroom, and in the study group areas. It usually counts for 10-20% of the overall grade because without participation, there really wouldn't be a classroom, we would just be reading the text and doing the work, not really exchanging ideas at all. My only complaint about most of the classrooms I have had (9 of them so far) is that the instructor does not contribute enough. They seem to do the online teaching as a side job and therefore don't really "instruct" much. In fact I am almost convinced that the instructors that only require group work are doing so just so that they don't have to grade as much...kind of a cop out, I think.
Anyhow, my research paper was just that, lots of research (and a very interesting topic), but I didn't think the writing was done that well (probably because I wrote it all the day it was due and actually turned in the first draft), but apparently I did something alright to get a A on it (that or everyone else tanked it....eeeekkkk).
So now, I just have to wait a few days for the final official grade to be posted and this class on Computer Security will be behind me and I'll only have three more to go!!!!
In an online environment, participation means contributing to the conferences in the classroom, and in the study group areas. It usually counts for 10-20% of the overall grade because without participation, there really wouldn't be a classroom, we would just be reading the text and doing the work, not really exchanging ideas at all. My only complaint about most of the classrooms I have had (9 of them so far) is that the instructor does not contribute enough. They seem to do the online teaching as a side job and therefore don't really "instruct" much. In fact I am almost convinced that the instructors that only require group work are doing so just so that they don't have to grade as much...kind of a cop out, I think.
Anyhow, my research paper was just that, lots of research (and a very interesting topic), but I didn't think the writing was done that well (probably because I wrote it all the day it was due and actually turned in the first draft), but apparently I did something alright to get a A on it (that or everyone else tanked it....eeeekkkk).
So now, I just have to wait a few days for the final official grade to be posted and this class on Computer Security will be behind me and I'll only have three more to go!!!!
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Fishes
We have had a fish tank for some time but we never put it together in the past. We put it in storage when we moved the last time so only recently have it back in our possession. My husband decided to fill it and run it almost immediately after unpacking it and thankfully it had all the necessary parts for it.
It is a just a little 20 gallon freshwater tank on a black iron stand. J bought the first 6 fish for me for Christmas. They were as follows:
Silver Lyretail Molly 1 Male and 1 Female
Red Wag Platy 1 Male and 1 Female
Red Fin Tetra 2 of undetermined sex.
After the tank cycled and settled, I bought one more female Red Wag Platy and 2 more of the Tetras just so they would have enough to be happy.
Then as I stated in a previous post, one of my female Red Wag Platys died. We think now that it had a tumor.
So after determining that there is nothing wrong with the tank (no disease or anything) and all other fish are happy, I decided to get some new friends in there. I bought 4 Glow Light Tetras and they seem to be adjusting to their new home....
Okay, that is it for pet posts for tonight....we'll see what surfaces tomorrow.
It is a just a little 20 gallon freshwater tank on a black iron stand. J bought the first 6 fish for me for Christmas. They were as follows:
Silver Lyretail Molly 1 Male and 1 Female
Red Wag Platy 1 Male and 1 Female
Red Fin Tetra 2 of undetermined sex.
After the tank cycled and settled, I bought one more female Red Wag Platy and 2 more of the Tetras just so they would have enough to be happy.
Then as I stated in a previous post, one of my female Red Wag Platys died. We think now that it had a tumor.
So after determining that there is nothing wrong with the tank (no disease or anything) and all other fish are happy, I decided to get some new friends in there. I bought 4 Glow Light Tetras and they seem to be adjusting to their new home....
Okay, that is it for pet posts for tonight....we'll see what surfaces tomorrow.
Chase
I just realized earlier today that in all my rantings and ravings about our squirrel terrorists (AKA Rufus) and the birds at the feeder, I have failed to share much at all about our actual pets. So, since I am short on material tonight but still feel the desire to post, I will tell you about Chase, our cat and then perhaps later about my fish.
I have mentioned her before in this post around Christmas time so she has not been completely left from my blog but I have not talked about her much...
Let me start by saying that she is one of the sweetest creatures in the world but definitely not the brightest bulb on the tree. I think she must have smoked pot in a previous life (explains her affinity for catnip) because she has no long term memory. If you get on her about something, 10 seconds later, she is back doing exactly the same thing, looking at you like you have never told her no before.
She was abandoned by her previous owners and just started showing up in our yard at our old house about 5 years ago. The reason I know she was abandoned was because she was much too friendly to be feral, and when I did end up having to take her to the cat doctor, she was already fixed. The doctor estimated her age at the time to be about 1 1/2 years. She is at least partially a Maine Coon. The episode at the vet for the first time was before we had actually adopted her. She was injured by a racoon so I took her in but she wasn't ours so they called her "No Name Yet" on her records.
History is that when we adopted her (started feeding her, paying her vet bills and letting her into the house), we already had a cat named Madison that I had had since I was in high school. Maddie was (I had to put her to sleep at 19 years this past summer) a talker. This is because when I got her as a kitten, I always talked to her, so she would talk back. Chase was not a talker, in fact she never meowed at all unless she was scared. Then she would meow this broken meow that only cats that have starved seem to have. Chase was a licker. She licks you to get you to pet her.
Maddie did not like Chase much because Maddie was old and Chase was young but she tolerated her after the initial 6 months of hissing. Maddie was an indoor kitty at this time (used to be outdoor when she was younger). Chase was both. Chase would antagonize Maddie for the fun of it (hang out on the stairs so Maddie couldn't get to the litter box...sneak up on her from behind the couch...etc). Maddie would let Chase have it with claws fully extended.
Chase and Maddie eventually learned to like each other even if they were never close. When one was missing because of the vet or a trip we were on, the other would get very nervous and meow a lot. When Maddie died, Chase became a much more nervous and scared cat (it didn't help that Maddie died only a month or so before we moved across the world).
Now we are settled in our new house, Chase seems to be happy being an indoor cat for the time being, and has become more brave, but she still likes to be in the room with a human as much as possible, and she will howl if we leave the room and she didn't see where we went. Visitors scare her now, when they never did before. She has started talking much more since Maddie died (this might be because I talk to her more too), and she has started bonking her head on things (headbutting) like Maddie used to do. She will sit and headbutt your leg for an hour until you pet her these days. She doesn't lick as much as she used to (which is a good thing) and I am wondering if she doesn't need a friend....hmmm. Thing is, the litter box is so much more managable with only one cat.
Madison
Chase
I have mentioned her before in this post around Christmas time so she has not been completely left from my blog but I have not talked about her much...
Let me start by saying that she is one of the sweetest creatures in the world but definitely not the brightest bulb on the tree. I think she must have smoked pot in a previous life (explains her affinity for catnip) because she has no long term memory. If you get on her about something, 10 seconds later, she is back doing exactly the same thing, looking at you like you have never told her no before.
She was abandoned by her previous owners and just started showing up in our yard at our old house about 5 years ago. The reason I know she was abandoned was because she was much too friendly to be feral, and when I did end up having to take her to the cat doctor, she was already fixed. The doctor estimated her age at the time to be about 1 1/2 years. She is at least partially a Maine Coon. The episode at the vet for the first time was before we had actually adopted her. She was injured by a racoon so I took her in but she wasn't ours so they called her "No Name Yet" on her records.
History is that when we adopted her (started feeding her, paying her vet bills and letting her into the house), we already had a cat named Madison that I had had since I was in high school. Maddie was (I had to put her to sleep at 19 years this past summer) a talker. This is because when I got her as a kitten, I always talked to her, so she would talk back. Chase was not a talker, in fact she never meowed at all unless she was scared. Then she would meow this broken meow that only cats that have starved seem to have. Chase was a licker. She licks you to get you to pet her.
Maddie did not like Chase much because Maddie was old and Chase was young but she tolerated her after the initial 6 months of hissing. Maddie was an indoor kitty at this time (used to be outdoor when she was younger). Chase was both. Chase would antagonize Maddie for the fun of it (hang out on the stairs so Maddie couldn't get to the litter box...sneak up on her from behind the couch...etc). Maddie would let Chase have it with claws fully extended.
Chase and Maddie eventually learned to like each other even if they were never close. When one was missing because of the vet or a trip we were on, the other would get very nervous and meow a lot. When Maddie died, Chase became a much more nervous and scared cat (it didn't help that Maddie died only a month or so before we moved across the world).
Now we are settled in our new house, Chase seems to be happy being an indoor cat for the time being, and has become more brave, but she still likes to be in the room with a human as much as possible, and she will howl if we leave the room and she didn't see where we went. Visitors scare her now, when they never did before. She has started talking much more since Maddie died (this might be because I talk to her more too), and she has started bonking her head on things (headbutting) like Maddie used to do. She will sit and headbutt your leg for an hour until you pet her these days. She doesn't lick as much as she used to (which is a good thing) and I am wondering if she doesn't need a friend....hmmm. Thing is, the litter box is so much more managable with only one cat.
Madison
Chase
Monday, May 09, 2005
One Hundred Percent
I just got my grade from my final exam and I got 100 % on it....I don't have my research paper grade yet but if I am lucky, I might just pull an A out of this class...we'll see!!!
How Old Am I Really?
You Are 24 Years Old
20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
We Have Eggs
This morning, while weeding in the backyard, I decided to check out the Eastern Bluebird cavity nest we have. I mentioned before that I was pretty sure they were using it but they seemed kind of sporadic so I was not completely convinced. So after I saw both of them fly away today, I went over and peeked in.
There were at least three little aqua colored eggs in there!! I am so excited. Now I have to keep an eye out that no other birds go in there and that the parents don't disappear on me.
I have read about this some on a bluebird website. According to the site, songbirds do not have a great sense of smell so you can even take out the nest and put a clean one in and they will still come back to it. I am not quite that adventuresome. I figure if I look in there and things look like they are okay, I'll let them be for the most part. I have not seen any other birds that I need worry about so far. I am just excited to think about there being baby birds at some point and helping out the depleted population.
There were at least three little aqua colored eggs in there!! I am so excited. Now I have to keep an eye out that no other birds go in there and that the parents don't disappear on me.
I have read about this some on a bluebird website. According to the site, songbirds do not have a great sense of smell so you can even take out the nest and put a clean one in and they will still come back to it. I am not quite that adventuresome. I figure if I look in there and things look like they are okay, I'll let them be for the most part. I have not seen any other birds that I need worry about so far. I am just excited to think about there being baby birds at some point and helping out the depleted population.
More Visitors
Last evening while we were working in the yard, we saw a Brown Thrasher come to the suet feeder. He didn't seem to care that we were right there. This was our first time seeing this guy.
This morning I saw our first House Finches, a pair of them. Up until now the Goldfinches have been hogging the feeders.
This morning I saw our first House Finches, a pair of them. Up until now the Goldfinches have been hogging the feeders.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
Happy Birthday
Today is my grandma's 79th birthday!!!! Wish I could be there to celebrate but I know my family will do something fun with her. Happy Birthday Grandma!!!!
Toll House Cookies
Out of the blue, J decided to make cookies tonight and I think they were the best yet. He makes them from scratch with semi sweet morsels and they are just terrific...I had to be good and limit my intake but we'll have them for a few more days so that will be nice as well.
Checking the Items Off
Today was the first nice day we have had in a few days. It ended up being in the low 80s and it was just lovely outside. J actually had the day off so I got to see him all day but he is getting ready to start school again (just as I finish up) and I know his "To Do List" was nagging at him. So we spent the day mostly ticking things off both of our lists around the house.
It was nice to spend the time with him, in the outdoors enjoying the fresh air and the sunshine even if we were doing chores...on my list, I got the damage from Rufus fixed up in the attic, all my plants watered, the house cleaned up, both vehicles washed, my scarf for my mom finished, some Nascar and golf watched, and major updating in my hardcopy journal done. J got the front side of the house powerwashed, both vehicles washed, the closet we built in the garage spackled and ready for paint, the patio powerwashed, some weeds pulled, some suckers plants removed, and all the lawn furniture cleaned up. We also both managed to fit some cardio and a trip to the gym (for a very fast speedy workout) in.
Overal it was an eventful day that leaves us both feeling like we checked some boxes on the list. Unfortunately the list doesn't ever seem to get shorter, but the items do change...thankfully.
It was nice to spend the time with him, in the outdoors enjoying the fresh air and the sunshine even if we were doing chores...on my list, I got the damage from Rufus fixed up in the attic, all my plants watered, the house cleaned up, both vehicles washed, my scarf for my mom finished, some Nascar and golf watched, and major updating in my hardcopy journal done. J got the front side of the house powerwashed, both vehicles washed, the closet we built in the garage spackled and ready for paint, the patio powerwashed, some weeds pulled, some suckers plants removed, and all the lawn furniture cleaned up. We also both managed to fit some cardio and a trip to the gym (for a very fast speedy workout) in.
Overal it was an eventful day that leaves us both feeling like we checked some boxes on the list. Unfortunately the list doesn't ever seem to get shorter, but the items do change...thankfully.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Newcomer
Today I had a rose-breasted grosbeak at the feeder. According to my bird books, they don't live this far south but obviously this one does...
Spelling Bee
You have to check out this post on Chuck's World. I didn't want to steal it outright...that wouldn't be nice but I thought it was very interesting and I know the writers out there will appreciate it. It will probably drive the Sarcastix nuts though...fair warning...
US vs UK
Boy finds snake in cereal box - Yahoo! News
Notice how because this is from the UK and not the US, there is no mention of suing the company? Hmmmm...
Notice how because this is from the UK and not the US, there is no mention of suing the company? Hmmmm...
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Free At Last
Whew!!! I am done for the semester. The classroom was back up functioning by this evening and I managed to finish my final without an answer to my question from the instructor...in fact I checked my school email just as I was loading up the last draft of my final to the classroom and there was an email from her.
She answered my question but several hours after I had already done the work.....ugh...her email was time stamped at 7pm tonight...thanks lady, nice timing.
I am just thrilled to be done for three months. Tomorrow is my first day of freedom and I can't even imagine all the time I will have to do what I want....Yeah!!!!
She answered my question but several hours after I had already done the work.....ugh...her email was time stamped at 7pm tonight...thanks lady, nice timing.
I am just thrilled to be done for three months. Tomorrow is my first day of freedom and I can't even imagine all the time I will have to do what I want....Yeah!!!!
WebTycho
Classroom is down (not functioning) and instructor is not responding to email. Final is due tonight at midnight EDT....lots of fun...
Monday, May 02, 2005
Final Days
Started my final on Sunday....have to turn it on Tuesday night. It is going okay, but once again is completely vague in its instructions and the instructor is not responding to email questions (which is by the way, the only way we can ask questions about the final). Ugh!!!! My question is pretty important....she will probably write me back after I turn it in...
I didn't give her a very good evaluation. She just isn't that great of an instructor (should call them facilitators since they don't really teach us anything, we teach ourselves). I have had her before, in my very first online class and didn't like her "teaching" style much then either.
Regardless the light is definitely at the end of the tunnel. Will probably devote most of tomorrow to finishing it up and getting it turned in so I can watch TV with my husband in the evening for the first time in almost 3 weeks (I was gone on my trip for 10 days and he has been working nights for the week that I have been home).
I didn't give her a very good evaluation. She just isn't that great of an instructor (should call them facilitators since they don't really teach us anything, we teach ourselves). I have had her before, in my very first online class and didn't like her "teaching" style much then either.
Regardless the light is definitely at the end of the tunnel. Will probably devote most of tomorrow to finishing it up and getting it turned in so I can watch TV with my husband in the evening for the first time in almost 3 weeks (I was gone on my trip for 10 days and he has been working nights for the week that I have been home).
Passive Aggressive
As I mentioned before, we are not great fans of the construction going on across the street. It would not have started off badly if we hadn't had to clean up all their trash one early weekend morning.
Last week, they managed to get a big ass truck stuck on the lot because of the down hill slope. They ended up towing it out with another truck and that truck managed to ruin the end of my gravel driveway peeling out trying to pull the big ass truck out. I went to the door and when the foreman saw me, he started casually kicking the gravel around like he fully intended to fix it (which I know he only did because he saw me). After that truck was out, a guy with a broom came over and swept up the gravel that had spilled into the road back into my driveway.
Later on that day, another truck came to deliver the dumpster and it felt fully at ease using my driveway as some kind of turn around point. I understand using it once in a while but they have only been over there framing the house up for a few days and have used my driveway twice in one day. Sounds like a habit to me and I am nipping it in the bud.
Needless to say, after J left this morning and I had taken out the trash, I moved our truck to the end of our driveway where it will be all day (since I have to work on my final and do not plan to go anywhere). They are usually gone before J gets home so I can move the truck back up to let him in the driveway with no problem.
Bitchy I know....
Last week, they managed to get a big ass truck stuck on the lot because of the down hill slope. They ended up towing it out with another truck and that truck managed to ruin the end of my gravel driveway peeling out trying to pull the big ass truck out. I went to the door and when the foreman saw me, he started casually kicking the gravel around like he fully intended to fix it (which I know he only did because he saw me). After that truck was out, a guy with a broom came over and swept up the gravel that had spilled into the road back into my driveway.
Later on that day, another truck came to deliver the dumpster and it felt fully at ease using my driveway as some kind of turn around point. I understand using it once in a while but they have only been over there framing the house up for a few days and have used my driveway twice in one day. Sounds like a habit to me and I am nipping it in the bud.
Needless to say, after J left this morning and I had taken out the trash, I moved our truck to the end of our driveway where it will be all day (since I have to work on my final and do not plan to go anywhere). They are usually gone before J gets home so I can move the truck back up to let him in the driveway with no problem.
Bitchy I know....
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Power Outages
We have had two of them today and the weather is not even bad. We were forecasted to have a terrible thunderstorm from 1 to 7pm today but it really didn't do much. Wind, rain, and lightening/thunder was minimal. I even went out for a walk afterwards.
I noticed that the power went out while I was gone because I was kindof near a hospital (there are lots of them here) and its generator kicked on. I thought that was strange as I have walked that route many times and never noticed it do that before. I also didn't think it was a real power outage (maybe just testing their system) because the weather was calm.
I got home a couple of hours later and all the clocks were blinking at me. I reset all the clocks, rebooted my computer and continued on with my night. I was on the Internet fooling around when all of a sudden everything goes completely black. No joke, not just kindof black, so black that I couldn't see my hand in front of my face. Our neighborhood is very dark and we don't have street lights (not that they would help in a power outage). When the lights go out around here and there is no moon (cloudy tonight) is so dark you would not know there was a house sitting here.
So I made my way slowly to the kitchen to find the flashlight and proceeded to light candles all over. I have a lot of candles so getting some light quickly was not a problem. After about 20 minutes, the power comes back on again. (My poor fish probably don't know what to think.)
Anyhow, the strange thing about the power here is that it seems to go out all the time. All of our power lines are under ground so I am not exactly sure what is causing the problem but we get power flickers a lot (usually doesn't stay off like today). I don't know if it is this town, the neighborhood or the whole county...but it is irritating. Thankfully, I have all of our expensive equipment (computers, TV, DVD players, recievers, stereo equipment) all hooked up to surge protectors that are kick ass. They pay me if my stuff gets ruined from a spike.
Anyhow just thought I would share that with you before we lose power for the third time tonight...ha ha.
I noticed that the power went out while I was gone because I was kindof near a hospital (there are lots of them here) and its generator kicked on. I thought that was strange as I have walked that route many times and never noticed it do that before. I also didn't think it was a real power outage (maybe just testing their system) because the weather was calm.
I got home a couple of hours later and all the clocks were blinking at me. I reset all the clocks, rebooted my computer and continued on with my night. I was on the Internet fooling around when all of a sudden everything goes completely black. No joke, not just kindof black, so black that I couldn't see my hand in front of my face. Our neighborhood is very dark and we don't have street lights (not that they would help in a power outage). When the lights go out around here and there is no moon (cloudy tonight) is so dark you would not know there was a house sitting here.
So I made my way slowly to the kitchen to find the flashlight and proceeded to light candles all over. I have a lot of candles so getting some light quickly was not a problem. After about 20 minutes, the power comes back on again. (My poor fish probably don't know what to think.)
Anyhow, the strange thing about the power here is that it seems to go out all the time. All of our power lines are under ground so I am not exactly sure what is causing the problem but we get power flickers a lot (usually doesn't stay off like today). I don't know if it is this town, the neighborhood or the whole county...but it is irritating. Thankfully, I have all of our expensive equipment (computers, TV, DVD players, recievers, stereo equipment) all hooked up to surge protectors that are kick ass. They pay me if my stuff gets ruined from a spike.
Anyhow just thought I would share that with you before we lose power for the third time tonight...ha ha.
Razor Burns
Oh my, I think I just cut the crap out of my arm pit and my bikini line with my razor...
I don't have a holder for it in this shower like I do in my other shower, and even though I have no problem using the shower without knocking it down off the soap dish, J can't seem to use that shower without sending my razor crashing to the tub floor. I am thinking that these various falls have caused some kind of miniscule dings in the blade because I just used it and now both my pits and my bikini line are bleeding and the stinging under my arm from water even touching it is killing me.
I changed the blade just now but I am not sure that is going to fix the problem...I am thinking I have to find another way to store it, or I will continue to donate blood to the water supply. Ugh!!!!
I don't have a holder for it in this shower like I do in my other shower, and even though I have no problem using the shower without knocking it down off the soap dish, J can't seem to use that shower without sending my razor crashing to the tub floor. I am thinking that these various falls have caused some kind of miniscule dings in the blade because I just used it and now both my pits and my bikini line are bleeding and the stinging under my arm from water even touching it is killing me.
I changed the blade just now but I am not sure that is going to fix the problem...I am thinking I have to find another way to store it, or I will continue to donate blood to the water supply. Ugh!!!!
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