Thanks to K.H for the avatar!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Real Answering Machine Messages
Some days... I just need something hysterical. Today must be one of those days. These are from mil, enjoy!
Real Answering Machine Messages
================================
WE ARE BORG. RESISTANCE IS FUTILE. YOU WILL BE ASSIMILATED.
But we're not home right now. So leave a message at the tone, and we'll assimilate you later.
Hello, this is KVKE, you're on the air. (or) Hello, you're caller number nine!
This is the Literacy Self Test Hotline. After the tone, leave your name and number, and recite a sentence using today's vocabulary word. Today's word is "supercilious."
Greetings, you have reached the Sixth Sense Detective Agency. We know who you are and what you want, so at the sound of the tone, please hang up.
I can't come to the phone now because I have amnesia and I feel stupid talking to people I don't remember. I'd appreciate it if you could help me out by leaving my name and telling me something about myself. Thanks.
Thank you for calling the CSU Automated Hearing Test Line. Prepare for Test 1. Is this tone louder in your left ear or right ear? ... BEEP
(Rod Serling imitation:) You're dazed, bewildered, trapped in a world without time, where sound collides with color and shadows explode. You see a signpost up ahead -- this is no ordinary telephone answering device... You have reached, "The Twilight Phone".
Thank you for calling 434-2322. If you wish to speak to Tim, push 1 on your touch tone phone now. If you wish to speak to Lynn, push 2 on your touch tone phone now. If you have a wrong number, push 3 on your touch tone phone now. All of this button pushing doesn't do anything, but it is a good way to work off anger, and it makes us feel like we have a big time phone system.
Lucifer speaking. Who in hell do you want?
This is a test. This is a test of the Answering Machine Broadcast System. This is only a test.
(Recorded directly from AT&T:) We're sorry, but the number you dialed is disconnected or no longer in service.
Hi, you've reached 340-2359. We're not peeb eht retfa egassem ruoy evael esaelp os ,won thgir emoh. gnillac rof uoy knahT.
The number you have reached, 226-0477, has been changed. The new number is 226-0477. Please make a note of it.
You have reached the CPX-2000 Voice Blackmail System. Your voice patterns are now being digitally encoded and stored for later use. Once this is done, our computers will be able to use the sound of YOUR voice for literally thousands of illegal and immoral purposes. There is no charge for this initial consultation. However our staff of professional extortionists will contact you in the near future to further explain the benefits of our service, and to arrange for your schedule of payment. Remember to speak clearly at the sound of the tone. Thank you.
(Klingon voice:) ANSWERING MACHINE. SPEAK.
You have reached the number you have dialed. Please leave a message after the beep.
Now I lay me down to sleep; Leave a message at the beep. If I die before I wake, Remember to erase the tape.
Hello, you've reached Jim and Sonya. We can't pick up the phone right now, because we're doing something we really enjoy. Sonya likes doing it up and down, and I like doing it left to right... real slowly. So leave a message, and when we're done brushing our teeth we'll get back to you.
A is for academics, B is for beer. One of those reasons is why we're not here. So leave a message.
Hi. This is John. If you are the phone company, I already sent the money. If you are my parents, please send money. If you are my financial aid institution, you didn't lend me enough money. If you are my friends, you owe me money. If you are a female, don't worry, I have plenty of money.
(Narrator's voice:) There Dale sits, reading a magazine. Suddenly the telephone rings! The bathroom explodes into a veritable maelstrom of toilet paper, with Dale in the middle of it, his arms windmilling at incredible speeds! Will he make it in time? Alas no, his valiant effort is in vain. The bell hath sounded. Thou must leave a message.
Hi. I'm probably home, I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.
I'm sorry, the number you have reached is imaginary. Please rotate your phone 90 degrees and dial again.
Real Answering Machine Messages
================================
WE ARE BORG. RESISTANCE IS FUTILE. YOU WILL BE ASSIMILATED.
But we're not home right now. So leave a message at the tone, and we'll assimilate you later.
Hello, this is KVKE, you're on the air. (or) Hello, you're caller number nine!
This is the Literacy Self Test Hotline. After the tone, leave your name and number, and recite a sentence using today's vocabulary word. Today's word is "supercilious."
Greetings, you have reached the Sixth Sense Detective Agency. We know who you are and what you want, so at the sound of the tone, please hang up.
I can't come to the phone now because I have amnesia and I feel stupid talking to people I don't remember. I'd appreciate it if you could help me out by leaving my name and telling me something about myself. Thanks.
Thank you for calling the CSU Automated Hearing Test Line. Prepare for Test 1. Is this tone louder in your left ear or right ear? ... BEEP
(Rod Serling imitation:) You're dazed, bewildered, trapped in a world without time, where sound collides with color and shadows explode. You see a signpost up ahead -- this is no ordinary telephone answering device... You have reached, "The Twilight Phone".
Thank you for calling 434-2322. If you wish to speak to Tim, push 1 on your touch tone phone now. If you wish to speak to Lynn, push 2 on your touch tone phone now. If you have a wrong number, push 3 on your touch tone phone now. All of this button pushing doesn't do anything, but it is a good way to work off anger, and it makes us feel like we have a big time phone system.
Lucifer speaking. Who in hell do you want?
This is a test. This is a test of the Answering Machine Broadcast System. This is only a test.
(Recorded directly from AT&T:) We're sorry, but the number you dialed is disconnected or no longer in service.
Hi, you've reached 340-2359. We're not peeb eht retfa egassem ruoy evael esaelp os ,won thgir emoh. gnillac rof uoy knahT.
The number you have reached, 226-0477, has been changed. The new number is 226-0477. Please make a note of it.
You have reached the CPX-2000 Voice Blackmail System. Your voice patterns are now being digitally encoded and stored for later use. Once this is done, our computers will be able to use the sound of YOUR voice for literally thousands of illegal and immoral purposes. There is no charge for this initial consultation. However our staff of professional extortionists will contact you in the near future to further explain the benefits of our service, and to arrange for your schedule of payment. Remember to speak clearly at the sound of the tone. Thank you.
(Klingon voice:) ANSWERING MACHINE. SPEAK.
You have reached the number you have dialed. Please leave a message after the beep.
Now I lay me down to sleep; Leave a message at the beep. If I die before I wake, Remember to erase the tape.
Hello, you've reached Jim and Sonya. We can't pick up the phone right now, because we're doing something we really enjoy. Sonya likes doing it up and down, and I like doing it left to right... real slowly. So leave a message, and when we're done brushing our teeth we'll get back to you.
A is for academics, B is for beer. One of those reasons is why we're not here. So leave a message.
Hi. This is John. If you are the phone company, I already sent the money. If you are my parents, please send money. If you are my financial aid institution, you didn't lend me enough money. If you are my friends, you owe me money. If you are a female, don't worry, I have plenty of money.
(Narrator's voice:) There Dale sits, reading a magazine. Suddenly the telephone rings! The bathroom explodes into a veritable maelstrom of toilet paper, with Dale in the middle of it, his arms windmilling at incredible speeds! Will he make it in time? Alas no, his valiant effort is in vain. The bell hath sounded. Thou must leave a message.
Hi. I'm probably home, I'm just avoiding someone I don't like. Leave me a message, and if I don't call back, it's you.
I'm sorry, the number you have reached is imaginary. Please rotate your phone 90 degrees and dial again.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Factor V Leiden and the consequences....
Just what is Factor V Leiden (or FVL) and why am I writting about it now?
Visit the link above for "what" it is (in layman's terms). The reason I'm focusing on that today is because it explains some of what is going on with me. Not that I'm anxious to add yet another disease or illness to my ever-growing list.. but, had the test been around years ago and had I been tested- I might not be in quite the predicament I find myself in today.
For instance... I probably wouldn't have tried to bear children. I would have definetly found a different gyn to treat more agressively the female organs rather than believing the old rule of thumb "if it ain't broke-don't fix it" cuz it WAS broke and should have been out of there a long time ago.
I would have been on coumadin therapy for life after the first round of clots and the bum leg might not be in such bad shape.
I would have been a lot more astute about recognizing gall-bladder attacks for what they were. Yes- these may be related. Sister- go and get yourself checked NOW. If you need your g/b out- we'll do it together! Surely, the surgeon could offer a two-for-one special?? LOL!
I would have given more consideration to chasing dreams earlier in life rather than waiting til a more opportune time. Now that I have the time- I don't have the phsyical stamina or "shape" to chase them. Oh, well.
At least now- TODAY, I know. Finally. Definitevely. Without a doubt. I'm a FVL carrier/patient and hope that there aren't any other mutations to follow... problems with that mean that they cascade and cause certain other complications to other body parts. Joy.
Questions? Comments? Prayers? All of the above.
Visit the link above for "what" it is (in layman's terms). The reason I'm focusing on that today is because it explains some of what is going on with me. Not that I'm anxious to add yet another disease or illness to my ever-growing list.. but, had the test been around years ago and had I been tested- I might not be in quite the predicament I find myself in today.
For instance... I probably wouldn't have tried to bear children. I would have definetly found a different gyn to treat more agressively the female organs rather than believing the old rule of thumb "if it ain't broke-don't fix it" cuz it WAS broke and should have been out of there a long time ago.
I would have been on coumadin therapy for life after the first round of clots and the bum leg might not be in such bad shape.
I would have been a lot more astute about recognizing gall-bladder attacks for what they were. Yes- these may be related. Sister- go and get yourself checked NOW. If you need your g/b out- we'll do it together! Surely, the surgeon could offer a two-for-one special?? LOL!
I would have given more consideration to chasing dreams earlier in life rather than waiting til a more opportune time. Now that I have the time- I don't have the phsyical stamina or "shape" to chase them. Oh, well.
At least now- TODAY, I know. Finally. Definitevely. Without a doubt. I'm a FVL carrier/patient and hope that there aren't any other mutations to follow... problems with that mean that they cascade and cause certain other complications to other body parts. Joy.
Questions? Comments? Prayers? All of the above.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
lorum ipsum dolor (sit amet)
"Neque porro quisquam est qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit..."
I was told I REALLY needed to say SOME thing... there, I've now said some.
Ciao.
I was told I REALLY needed to say SOME thing... there, I've now said some.
Ciao.
Monday, January 15, 2007
The Wit & Wisdom of Benjamin Franklin
"When you're an Anvil, hold your sill, when you're a Hammer, strike your fill."
"William because his wife was something ill, uncertain in her health, indifferent still, h trn'd her out of doors, without reply: I ask'd if he that act could justif. In sickness and in health, says he, I am bound to keep her, when she's worse or better found, I'll take her in again, and now ou'll see, she'll quickly either mend or end, says he."
"Many princes sin with David, but few repent with him."
"To be intimate with a foolish Friend, is like oing to Bed with a Razor."
"You may sometimes be much in the wrong, in owning your being in the right."
"He is a Governor that governs his Passions, and he a Servant that serves them."
"Prodigality of Time produces Poverty of Mind as well as of Estate."
"William because his wife was something ill, uncertain in her health, indifferent still, h trn'd her out of doors, without reply: I ask'd if he that act could justif. In sickness and in health, says he, I am bound to keep her, when she's worse or better found, I'll take her in again, and now ou'll see, she'll quickly either mend or end, says he."
"Many princes sin with David, but few repent with him."
"To be intimate with a foolish Friend, is like oing to Bed with a Razor."
"You may sometimes be much in the wrong, in owning your being in the right."
"He is a Governor that governs his Passions, and he a Servant that serves them."
"Prodigality of Time produces Poverty of Mind as well as of Estate."
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Oh, JOY! Oh, RAPTURE!
It's not the Canon Digi-Rebel I'd dreamed of... nope. BUT-- I feel like a whole person again! It's really hard being an artist without a pallet. So! I finally broke down and though I just couldn't commit to the one I really wanted- I did commit to something! Yeah!
Took it straight out of the box and had it flashing within moments of the battery going in! Ahhhh... I felt instant relief. As if I'd been panting for liquid and had just been doused! Of course- hadn't any superb subjects to snap, so just got chur basic cat and dog being petted by the Mr! Made Mom cheeze it up with me for a self-portrait.. showed her how easy it was to use. I think she wants one, too-- hint, hint- Daddy! I figure you'll want one, too- as it's so much quicker than our old outdated digi cameras that are only three years old! Imagine! Such speed and quality-- and as Byron was commenting: he'd paid $400 something for a top of the line 1.5 megapixel five or six years ago and had a real "Christmas story" fiasco and the last one available kind of story to go along with the present!
Anywhoo-- I'm in business again. I was commenting to Mom that thankfully- the old camera had died almost within hours of my departure from visiting friend, Doralisa- that was back in September! I've been THAT long without a lens! OUCH!
I feel almost like a human again-- no.. better! Am singing today! And, yes- I did go out really early and snapped a few pics of the heavy frost and the sunlight pouring into our old oak tree that was shedding leaves like a shower. Kinda pretty-- the bright orange glow and the leaf show. I'll hook everything up and post it later-- I'm off to dash off after more scenery!
~S
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Melodius Morning!
OHMIGOSH. I'm just sooo behind the times.
While viewing a friend's blog (DL has a great blog! http://cyranogal.blogspot.com/) I realized that the "quote of the day" changed all by it's little self! Now, I'm not a really dummy.. I just act like one (somedays!) and had realized what a RSS feed was- but, hadn't thunk to put a clever QUOTE one (or something much more interesting than the weather stats) to use on a blog! DUH! Anyway.. I had to go the quote site.. and instantly found a lovely quote!
Music is the soundtrack of your life.
~Dick Clark
LOVED it! So appropriate! Now.. why didn't I think of that??
I guess that thought explains why I love my iPod so much! cuz... I can orchastrate my whole day with it! Set the mood! For instance.. I drove to LR yesterday in the Firebird and went shopping. It was definitely a bluesy kinda day! All Stevie Ray Vaughan, Louis Prima, Storeyville, Steve Winwood and Steve Miller Band. Uh..never though of it-- but, I have a lot of St's and Steve's there!
On my kind of date with dh-- if I had the chance to make a play-list (not happening with that strong-will!) it would include Michael Buble, Rod Stewart's Standards remakes, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. Mmmm.. can't forget Harry Connick! Since I live in the real world-- and dh, has a very different set of taste- it would be a little Chicago, SRV, classic 70's rock selections and plenty of southern boogie.
Ahhh... the soundtrack of your life! That'd make a great title for a scrapbook page as well!
And since I posted this... another musical quote came my way... don't know whom to attribute it- but, it's good!
" Music is the only sensual pleasure without vice. "
Enjoy!
While viewing a friend's blog (DL has a great blog! http://cyranogal.blogspot.com/) I realized that the "quote of the day" changed all by it's little self! Now, I'm not a really dummy.. I just act like one (somedays!) and had realized what a RSS feed was- but, hadn't thunk to put a clever QUOTE one (or something much more interesting than the weather stats) to use on a blog! DUH! Anyway.. I had to go the quote site.. and instantly found a lovely quote!
Music is the soundtrack of your life.
~Dick Clark
LOVED it! So appropriate! Now.. why didn't I think of that??
I guess that thought explains why I love my iPod so much! cuz... I can orchastrate my whole day with it! Set the mood! For instance.. I drove to LR yesterday in the Firebird and went shopping. It was definitely a bluesy kinda day! All Stevie Ray Vaughan, Louis Prima, Storeyville, Steve Winwood and Steve Miller Band. Uh..never though of it-- but, I have a lot of St's and Steve's there!
On my kind of date with dh-- if I had the chance to make a play-list (not happening with that strong-will!) it would include Michael Buble, Rod Stewart's Standards remakes, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. Mmmm.. can't forget Harry Connick! Since I live in the real world-- and dh, has a very different set of taste- it would be a little Chicago, SRV, classic 70's rock selections and plenty of southern boogie.
Ahhh... the soundtrack of your life! That'd make a great title for a scrapbook page as well!
And since I posted this... another musical quote came my way... don't know whom to attribute it- but, it's good!
" Music is the only sensual pleasure without vice. "
Enjoy!
Friday, September 29, 2006
Brownie Points!
I received a clever e-card (a Nestlé chocolate one at that!) from my girlfriend, DL, this afternoon-- just had to join the website and they offer "brownie points" for submitting a baking memory... well.. that's not too hard!
This is what I immediately thought of--
One of my fondest childhood memories is learning to bake cookies under thetutelagee of my very dear great-aunt, Clarice, a spinster that we called Pargie... a toddler's version of "partner".
Pargie made the best cookies in the world- and when I married, the only thing I was any good at cooking was Toll-House cookies and a few other baked items. I didn't even know how to boil pasta for macaroni. My husband had to teach me that! I think he married me for my cookies!
I always think of my Pargie when I stir up a bowl; I live in the same house and bake in her old kitchen now and have taught my son nieces and nephews to appreciate a really good chocolate chip cookie! I know Pargie would be proud!
Go there.. join up.. spread some chocolate cheer and read the recipes... YUM!!
This is what I immediately thought of--
One of my fondest childhood memories is learning to bake cookies under thetutelagee of my very dear great-aunt, Clarice, a spinster that we called Pargie... a toddler's version of "partner".
Pargie made the best cookies in the world- and when I married, the only thing I was any good at cooking was Toll-House cookies and a few other baked items. I didn't even know how to boil pasta for macaroni. My husband had to teach me that! I think he married me for my cookies!
I always think of my Pargie when I stir up a bowl; I live in the same house and bake in her old kitchen now and have taught my son nieces and nephews to appreciate a really good chocolate chip cookie! I know Pargie would be proud!
Go there.. join up.. spread some chocolate cheer and read the recipes... YUM!!
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Down right dirty art....
... and NO! I'm not talking about porn!
Scott Wade is a graphic artist in Texas and has discovered a most unusal medium for his art. His car! after having driven it down his dusty road!
Gotta give the guy credit... he's a real down-to-earth kinda guy!
Link to his site (from my subject title above) to see lots more of his creations.
My favorites of course are the VanGoghs and the Vermeer... but, he has a lot of other masters and original art as well.
Enjoy!
Monday, August 14, 2006
Help me! Somebody help me!
Commercials. You either love 'em or you hate 'em.
I have a new one that I just laugh myself silly over (and have to imitate) every time I hear it! I even like it so much I learnt myself how to import it into a sound-mixer program and edit the darned thing down to just the funny part! How SICK is that?? LOL!
Oh! So you're wondering just WHICH TV advertisement I'm finding so amusing?? It's none other than the Geico commercial featuring Little Richard assisting (read that embellishing) an everyday consumer tell about her experience of having a traffic accident (on Thanksgiving Day, no less!) and the wonderful customer service she had from the insurance giant.
"WHOA! Look out! Look OUT! Help me! Somebody HELP ME! Mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo--hoooo!"
What a HOOT!
As I was doing my search for the video- I discovered that Burt Bacherach had one, too... haven't seen that one yet (except on you-tube) and wasn't too impressed with that. The MB reviews I found on it weren't all that complimentary either. However... the Charro commercial was fairly well received, I like it, too- but, not on the scale that I like the Little Richard ditty. For the record.. the opinion seems split on the reviews about Lil' Richard, too-- but I like it! My Mama likes it! We get the giggles (pretty often) and when we REALLY get silly--- one or the other of us will spout off that phrase! It just seems the perfect exclamatory remark for so many situations!
Shopping on eBay and ya just sniped that lovely pewter plate you've been wanting? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
Find a really great piece of kitchen equipment (like a food-scale! or something) on the Clearance aisle at Wal-Mart? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
You trip over a new ancestor line that somebody just posted on Ancestory.com? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
You can see just how useful this phrase can be? Oh my! I just get revved up typing it! I'm gonna have to go play my .aif file again! Good thing I've got it uploaded to iTunes... now I can intersperse it with my great rock-n-roll I've added this week!
"Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
Enjoy your mashed potatoes! Oh.. and if you want my edited version.. just email me!
I have a new one that I just laugh myself silly over (and have to imitate) every time I hear it! I even like it so much I learnt myself how to import it into a sound-mixer program and edit the darned thing down to just the funny part! How SICK is that?? LOL!
Oh! So you're wondering just WHICH TV advertisement I'm finding so amusing?? It's none other than the Geico commercial featuring Little Richard assisting (read that embellishing) an everyday consumer tell about her experience of having a traffic accident (on Thanksgiving Day, no less!) and the wonderful customer service she had from the insurance giant.
"WHOA! Look out! Look OUT! Help me! Somebody HELP ME! Mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo--hoooo!"
What a HOOT!
As I was doing my search for the video- I discovered that Burt Bacherach had one, too... haven't seen that one yet (except on you-tube) and wasn't too impressed with that. The MB reviews I found on it weren't all that complimentary either. However... the Charro commercial was fairly well received, I like it, too- but, not on the scale that I like the Little Richard ditty. For the record.. the opinion seems split on the reviews about Lil' Richard, too-- but I like it! My Mama likes it! We get the giggles (pretty often) and when we REALLY get silly--- one or the other of us will spout off that phrase! It just seems the perfect exclamatory remark for so many situations!
Shopping on eBay and ya just sniped that lovely pewter plate you've been wanting? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
Find a really great piece of kitchen equipment (like a food-scale! or something) on the Clearance aisle at Wal-Mart? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
You trip over a new ancestor line that somebody just posted on Ancestory.com? "Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
You can see just how useful this phrase can be? Oh my! I just get revved up typing it! I'm gonna have to go play my .aif file again! Good thing I've got it uploaded to iTunes... now I can intersperse it with my great rock-n-roll I've added this week!
"Whoa! Mashed potatoes and gravy and cranberry sauce... wooooo-hooo-hoooo!"
Enjoy your mashed potatoes! Oh.. and if you want my edited version.. just email me!
Thursday, August 10, 2006
a Happy kind of Tired!
or... random thoughts from an exhausted scrap-mama that should be asleep right now!Yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining several of the ARkansas Scrappers in Central Arkansas for a day trip of chit-chat, lunch and scrap-shopping! What FUN! And, now- I'm so keyed up I can't sleep! Being with friends is so invigorating! Putting my hands on new scrapbook papers has set the creative juices to flowing! Pictured above: Melissa (Mrs C), Ally & Rachel, Carol, Gladys, Sally, Wanda and Janet- thanks to Wanda for being our official photographer.
I've tossed and turned since around 2 o'clock with all kinds of ideas swirling! Ideas for themes for upcoming events: DAR (I'm the new Constitution Week co-ordinator); two State Swaps pages I've yet to finish; the Ferncliff retreat (can I even REMEMBER them now??); and of course- home decorating!
Oh, and before I forget it! I lost yet another 1.5 pounds this week-- and that was a surprise as I weighed-in at a totally different time of day (due to the parking nightmare thanks to Car Wars held at War Memorial Stadium). First of all- I've not been exercising much (cuz of the dratted leg/foot), and secondly because I ate prior to weigh; then there's always the fact that at different times of the day the body just fluctuates- so I was most pleasantly surprised to achieve this! The weight loss has slowed down in recent weeks; but, I'm still a LOSER and next will plan on breaking 75 pounds!! WHEW! What a relief!
Oh, and lunch was at one of the Hunan restaurants in NLR (and the little bit of veggies I snatched that weren't from the salad bar) were delicious! Mmmmhhhh! No fried foods- I just couldn't bring myself to do that yet. I've almost gotten this mind-set of an obsessed weight-conscious teenager.. I guess better late than never, right???
I had totally forgotten about FORTUNE COOKIES! Ahhh! Man- I miss junk carbs! Anyway-- friend, Gladys opened hers and decided I needed her fortune! Thanks, Gladys! It read: "You have a charming way with words and should write a book"! Well-- I love the word "charming" and I've read a few books.. does that apply?
Totally off the subject (but very near to my heart) is Sam and the other cats! Since Katrina has discovered "the great outdoors" and that she needn't be afraid of the DOOR to that wonderful world (or how to ask to get out and then back in again) she's gotten fiesty-er. She wallops poor old Samson when she comes back in- just pesters the bee-geebies outta him... poor Sam. But, he seems to have also accepted the newest outside-feline, "Tabby Tom", and when he comes in (which he LOVES to do!) he usually hunts up Sam and just hangs out with him! Odd cat-behavior for sure- but, I'm so glad that Sam seems to have "friends" in that weird cat kind of hierarchy.
Before I dozed off last night there was a special on TV about "Medical Mysteries" and one of the features was on these two young men that are both totally sightless but have developed "clicking" methods to allow them to triangulate (think sonar) sounds and judge what and where objects are. The really amazing thing was that they are so attuned to their surroundings that they could even determine the texture and type of building materials of new environments (such as a fence that was made of board fencing) rather than a brick structure from a distance of over six feet away. I mean to walk across a street and just by clicking the tongue and listening to the differences in how the sound returns and make path adjustments without falling down and tripping over obstacles is amazing! These two young men have never met, yet they both discovered the clicking methods on their own-- WOW!
I don't think Sam needs to "click".. but, he can sure identify a warm soft spot from a few yards away... he'd taken refuge earlier during the night (between me and Byron) when Katrina wanted to "rumble". He's followed me in here now and has claimed my lap and is purring almost loud enough that I need to turn up my iTunes.
Ah... this a happy kind of tired. Nat King Cole and Sam.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Is Life Nothing but a Numbers Game??
Somedays... perhaps!
Try this number on for size. One hundred eleven...
or- one hundred two *depending on the read-out you look at. Yup. You guessed correctly if you thought I was discussing the temperature! But, HERE? in ARKANSAS?? OUCH! That means with humidity factored in- it actually feels like 115 degrees out there!
*the higher figure was actually from the Weather Channel's site a few moments ago and the lower figure is because I could barely believe it and I ran to our handy-dandy outside thermometer that actually reads that figure and transmits it to me inside so I didn't have to go out the door again and actually feel it for myself! But- I have already today and I'm not going back out if I can help it! LOL!
If you guessed that I was meaning my weight-loss... well.. .that's another story.
Today's number from clinic is a ZERO.
No loss.. but, no gain either! This is the first time I've had a week with NO loss!
But, the encouraging number news is SIXTY-SIX. I'm still sixty-six pounds lighter than from where I started in January! So, all numbers aren't necessarily bad either in the great big scheme of things.
Here's another number for ya.... NINETY-SEVEN.
Yup! My grandmother, Mae, turns ninety-seven tomorrow! For someone that has seen an awful lot in her lifetime and relatively few personal illnesses- she's in remarkable shape! Except for today. She has a horrible sinus ailment that is causing fluid in her ears and she's having some vertigo. We had to cancel her "cousins" party in LR because of it- but, this afternoon she seems to be toughing it out (as is her typical character) and won't allow much help. We're all staying pretty close by in case she should get "tippy" and require anything.
Oh! Another number! TWENTY-FOUR!
That's the number of roses she received from a generous grand-daughter delivered by FedEx this morning from Hallmark Florists. And, MAN! They are GORGEOUS!
Another number coming up this week. TWENTY. Kid will turn two decades old on Monday.
That's all the numbers of interest I can think of right now.. must be the heat!
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
"A Real Woman Has..."
this list is from a recent book I read, "The Beach House" by Sally John, published by Harvest House Publishers.
The book follows four high-school chums as they reunite for their fortieth birthdays. They have all gone their different paths- and think that each are so different from where they had begun that they think that there is really no common denominator in their lives other than their past... it turns out that each has something in the way of life's wisdom to contribute to the other's circumstances as they are individually challenged in their current situation.
The list is from "Grandmere Babette" who tried to instill inspiration and encouragement in them as moldable young women.. they review the list as part of the storyline.
"A Real Woman Has..."
* A nest egg for personal use
* Something perfect to wear if the employer or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour
* A youth she's content to leave behind
* A set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, a hammer, and a black lace bra
* A black dress and a white silk blouse
* One friend who always makes her laugh
* And one who lets her cry
* A good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family
* Eight matching plates, goblets, and a recipe for a meal that will make her guests feel honored
"A Real Woman Knows..."
* How to fall in love
* How to quit a job
* How to cconfront a friend without ruining the friendship
* When to try harder... and when to walk away
* How to have a good time at a party she'd never choose to attend
* That she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents
* That her childhood may not have been perfect, but it's over
* How to live alone... even if she doesn't like it
* Whom she can trust, whom she can't, and why she shouldn't take it personally
* Where to go... be it to her best friend's kitchen or a charming inn... when her soul needs soothing
* What she can and can't accomplish in a day, a month, a year
The book follows four high-school chums as they reunite for their fortieth birthdays. They have all gone their different paths- and think that each are so different from where they had begun that they think that there is really no common denominator in their lives other than their past... it turns out that each has something in the way of life's wisdom to contribute to the other's circumstances as they are individually challenged in their current situation.
The list is from "Grandmere Babette" who tried to instill inspiration and encouragement in them as moldable young women.. they review the list as part of the storyline.
"A Real Woman Has..."
* A nest egg for personal use
* Something perfect to wear if the employer or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour
* A youth she's content to leave behind
* A set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, a hammer, and a black lace bra
* A black dress and a white silk blouse
* One friend who always makes her laugh
* And one who lets her cry
* A good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family
* Eight matching plates, goblets, and a recipe for a meal that will make her guests feel honored
"A Real Woman Knows..."
* How to fall in love
* How to quit a job
* How to cconfront a friend without ruining the friendship
* When to try harder... and when to walk away
* How to have a good time at a party she'd never choose to attend
* That she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents
* That her childhood may not have been perfect, but it's over
* How to live alone... even if she doesn't like it
* Whom she can trust, whom she can't, and why she shouldn't take it personally
* Where to go... be it to her best friend's kitchen or a charming inn... when her soul needs soothing
* What she can and can't accomplish in a day, a month, a year
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Six; Twenty-six point one
I'm melting, I'm melting!!
haha... no! It's NOT that hot here, YET! Though it was 80-something yesterday!!
I kinda like the numbers this week... and before you go thinking I'm meaning Racing Numbers... not those either! Though it is Oaklawn season and as "on top of the world" as I'm feeling I'm sure I'd be able to pick some good numbers!
I mean.... numbers accomplished.
For me- it's numbers shed. Lost. Left behind. Six pounds this week; Twenty-six total for six weeks.
My most serious EVER endeavor to deal with some serious health issues began on January 16, 2006. With the UAMS very successful Behaviour Modification program addressing weight loss, I'm making some strides towards a healthier lifestyle. I actually made the decision some months ago- but, the program dictated a start date in January. So... on January 10th, I weighed in a whopping 296 pounds. UGH. I've really had a struggle even admitting to that number. So there's a milestone in and of itself... that I can actually type that number (and not delete it!)
haha... no! It's NOT that hot here, YET! Though it was 80-something yesterday!!
I kinda like the numbers this week... and before you go thinking I'm meaning Racing Numbers... not those either! Though it is Oaklawn season and as "on top of the world" as I'm feeling I'm sure I'd be able to pick some good numbers!
I mean.... numbers accomplished.
For me- it's numbers shed. Lost. Left behind. Six pounds this week; Twenty-six total for six weeks.
My most serious EVER endeavor to deal with some serious health issues began on January 16, 2006. With the UAMS very successful Behaviour Modification program addressing weight loss, I'm making some strides towards a healthier lifestyle. I actually made the decision some months ago- but, the program dictated a start date in January. So... on January 10th, I weighed in a whopping 296 pounds. UGH. I've really had a struggle even admitting to that number. So there's a milestone in and of itself... that I can actually type that number (and not delete it!)
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Purrfect Satisfaction....
As I was digging through pictures taken recently-- I ran across one that I almost didn't get!
The Kid doesn't come around very often these days-- too busy being himself! But on the occasion that he does- me having a camera handy and him be willing to allow it to be snapped are getting further and further between.
But, the sheer satisfaction on Jess's face after capturing (and subduing, somewhat!) Katrina Kat is priceless!
She, of course, is NOT pleased-- but, she did allow it long enough for this shot. Katrina came along after he'd moved on; so even though he IS the most feline intuitive person I've ever known (besides his daddy) she is extremely skittish around him. Heck! She's that way with us! It's also interesting to note that HIS cat, Samson, is close in attendance and just waiting for the chance to have that lap all to himself! It didn't take long!
Purrrrfectly Priceless!
Monday, February 20, 2006
Geocaching... the experience!
After a less than successful start the first day out caching-- the second day dawned bright and clear. Pop and I headed up the interstate towards LR-UAMS and I was fascinated watching the progression on the Magellan's road navigation system. I realized as we sailed past the rest stop where the cache resides there was a mark I'd not seen on the previous outing. Oh!! So- THAT'S WHAT it's supposed to "DO" when I get close! Well-- maybe I can figure this thing out!! We'd meant to drive past, btw, as I needed to meet class and then check into clinic before traipsing around after a cache!
On the return trip I was really pumped!! I was gonna find it! I was just sure of it! The minute we pulled into the rest stop I knew two things. One- that it was located at the end of the park and by deciphering the hint, I was gonna be "logging" this one! I took off; armed with the GPS and my cell phone (to call back and let him know I'd found it!). The closer I got- the larger it loomed on my screen (no, not really- but, it seemed to!) and as I was almost there realized I'd failed to bring the camera out of the truck. Called Dad to tell him to bring it- and lo and behold- he'd failed to put his phone ON him and was following in my tracks. Okay-- no biggie. No camera to capture it; but, he would help search! Yippee!! It was debatable whether or not I'd been able to pique his interest!
Soon I was within 20 feet and amongst the briars when I realized this is not going to be as easy as I thought! The leaves were so thick back here- I was just thankful it wasn't tick and snake season! I'm in a dress for pity's sake!! Neared 12 feet. 8 feet. 6 feet. Well- I'm almost that tall! If I were to fall in any direction I'd probably hit it with my head! Had to remind myself to LOOK at the terrain rather than the GPS screen. Hmm.... well.. nothing but a lot of leaves and logs. Okay... look for a pathway. There did seem to be two. By this time I've handed the unit over to Dad so I can actually give my full attention to looking for subtle clues.
Dad kept taking a step forward and then a step backward- then two sideways, turn 90 degrees and repeat. Do we call this the geo-dance?? I'd already done that! I'm walking around him-- peering. FINALLY I spy metal! Ahhh-- that's IT I squeal. Uhh... wrong. It's an abandoned traffic sign. Close but no cigar. I keep looking. Dad's not getting antsy, but, I know he's not gonna want to spend a whole lot of time here. Hmmm..... wait a minute! What's THAT??? Dad-- roll that log over! And, sure enough! There it is! How very clever! The log has been hollowed out to easily slip over an ammo-box and conceal it from weather and non-gamers.
There it was in all it's glory! My first cache find! It's marked "geocache" on the side-- I'm in heaven! There should even be a travel-bug in this one! At least according to the geocache site! And, there it is! A cute little bear and the "tags". There are some other trinkets besides the log book! I quickly remember that arghhh-- I'd forgotten to bring my item to trade. Oh, well! I could still sign the log-book and be a part of the game! Dad seemed to be excited for me-- and as we walked back to the parking area; he was concocting ideas for items that would be easy to construct and leave for future cache trips!
A big thanks to cachemates for their placement of the cache. And, to Dad for his patience and willingness to put up with this- yet another "lark" of mine! I so look forward to the next adventure!
Here are the coorindates for my very first cache:
N 34Ă° 21.166
W 092Ă° 53.377
Dad and I talked "baseline" and survey points the rest of the trip home. Surprisingly-- we'd had almost this same discussion last Fall when we were talking about America's migration and settlement. How the surveyor's first came when it was known as the Louisana Purchase and then again after the War of 1812 and made land-grants for compensation to soldiers and how our family had moved on account of this and several other reasons. Wouldn't the surveyor's be delighted to use a GPS these days! Which got me to wondering if our local surveyor used it- I chanced to meet a neighbor who used to work with our local office and he said that they didn't- yet! But- that eventually that all the little ones would be going that way, too.
Oddly enough-- the subject of jobs using GPS came up again this week as I was reading my former neighbor's (Miz Pat's) account of her g-son, Billy, particpating in a Job Shadow Day. He was assigned to the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department Environmental Division crew walking transects in the Cache River area recording GPS readings and looking for evidence of the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker.
I've had a number of folks email me that this subject is fascinating but that they just don't "get it". Well-- me neither! I just know that I need to get "out" in order to get some exercise and marrying the "nerdy" gadgt part is just icing on the cake! I don't understand all the geek-speak on the geo-caching site; but, I'm having fun and I hope to have pictures from the next search. THAT"S the real appeal to me! If you want to join me on a site or suggest one- please feel free to leave an annonymous comment here or email me!
On the return trip I was really pumped!! I was gonna find it! I was just sure of it! The minute we pulled into the rest stop I knew two things. One- that it was located at the end of the park and by deciphering the hint, I was gonna be "logging" this one! I took off; armed with the GPS and my cell phone (to call back and let him know I'd found it!). The closer I got- the larger it loomed on my screen (no, not really- but, it seemed to!) and as I was almost there realized I'd failed to bring the camera out of the truck. Called Dad to tell him to bring it- and lo and behold- he'd failed to put his phone ON him and was following in my tracks. Okay-- no biggie. No camera to capture it; but, he would help search! Yippee!! It was debatable whether or not I'd been able to pique his interest!
Soon I was within 20 feet and amongst the briars when I realized this is not going to be as easy as I thought! The leaves were so thick back here- I was just thankful it wasn't tick and snake season! I'm in a dress for pity's sake!! Neared 12 feet. 8 feet. 6 feet. Well- I'm almost that tall! If I were to fall in any direction I'd probably hit it with my head! Had to remind myself to LOOK at the terrain rather than the GPS screen. Hmm.... well.. nothing but a lot of leaves and logs. Okay... look for a pathway. There did seem to be two. By this time I've handed the unit over to Dad so I can actually give my full attention to looking for subtle clues.
Dad kept taking a step forward and then a step backward- then two sideways, turn 90 degrees and repeat. Do we call this the geo-dance?? I'd already done that! I'm walking around him-- peering. FINALLY I spy metal! Ahhh-- that's IT I squeal. Uhh... wrong. It's an abandoned traffic sign. Close but no cigar. I keep looking. Dad's not getting antsy, but, I know he's not gonna want to spend a whole lot of time here. Hmmm..... wait a minute! What's THAT??? Dad-- roll that log over! And, sure enough! There it is! How very clever! The log has been hollowed out to easily slip over an ammo-box and conceal it from weather and non-gamers.
There it was in all it's glory! My first cache find! It's marked "geocache" on the side-- I'm in heaven! There should even be a travel-bug in this one! At least according to the geocache site! And, there it is! A cute little bear and the "tags". There are some other trinkets besides the log book! I quickly remember that arghhh-- I'd forgotten to bring my item to trade. Oh, well! I could still sign the log-book and be a part of the game! Dad seemed to be excited for me-- and as we walked back to the parking area; he was concocting ideas for items that would be easy to construct and leave for future cache trips!
A big thanks to cachemates for their placement of the cache. And, to Dad for his patience and willingness to put up with this- yet another "lark" of mine! I so look forward to the next adventure!
Here are the coorindates for my very first cache:
N 34Ă° 21.166
W 092Ă° 53.377
Dad and I talked "baseline" and survey points the rest of the trip home. Surprisingly-- we'd had almost this same discussion last Fall when we were talking about America's migration and settlement. How the surveyor's first came when it was known as the Louisana Purchase and then again after the War of 1812 and made land-grants for compensation to soldiers and how our family had moved on account of this and several other reasons. Wouldn't the surveyor's be delighted to use a GPS these days! Which got me to wondering if our local surveyor used it- I chanced to meet a neighbor who used to work with our local office and he said that they didn't- yet! But- that eventually that all the little ones would be going that way, too.
Oddly enough-- the subject of jobs using GPS came up again this week as I was reading my former neighbor's (Miz Pat's) account of her g-son, Billy, particpating in a Job Shadow Day. He was assigned to the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department Environmental Division crew walking transects in the Cache River area recording GPS readings and looking for evidence of the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker.
I've had a number of folks email me that this subject is fascinating but that they just don't "get it". Well-- me neither! I just know that I need to get "out" in order to get some exercise and marrying the "nerdy" gadgt part is just icing on the cake! I don't understand all the geek-speak on the geo-caching site; but, I'm having fun and I hope to have pictures from the next search. THAT"S the real appeal to me! If you want to join me on a site or suggest one- please feel free to leave an annonymous comment here or email me!
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Top 20 Reasons that We’re Glad Our Sister is in Mexico on Vacation, and We’re Not Jealous of Her...
Top 20 Reasons
that we’re glad our sister is in Mexico on vacation
....and we’re not jealous of her...
(in no particular order)
20. Our dogs won't be mad at us for going away and having gone to a big body of water and playing with Frisbee without them; and our cats won't be mad for us going to a big sand-box without them.
19. We can flush toilet paper down our toilet.
18. We get to smell the aroma of wet dog coming in from out of the rain instead of the stench of sour bathing suits.
17. We get to remove our damp pantyhose and heels at the end of the day; instead of brushing the sand out from between our toes.
16- We get to hear people tell us, "You look tired this afternoon." instead of "You look tan and refreshed."
15- We don’t have to hide the key to our room safe in a strategic place in our bathing suit.
14- We don’t have to summon enough hot air to blow out the whole 41 candles on our birthday cake.
13- We can understand the conversation in the booth behind us while having dinner out without using our phrase book.
12- We can enjoy watching our trees and spring buds freeze and die without worrying over a hurricane.
11- Our sexy underwear wasn’t rifled through by the TSA at the airport.
10- We can enjoy a glass of tap water.
9- We can chip off fresh ice from the ice storm and add to our glass of tap water.
8- We enjoy the exercise provided by freezing our buns off while retrieving firewood, instead of a walk on the beach.
7- We can clean our own homes, and don’t have to tip for maid service.
6- We don’t have to use our lint rollers to clean the pet fur off of the suitcases to travel.
5- We didn’t have to go to Victoria’s Secret for new thongs, or shop for specialty underwear just to take a vacation.
4- We get to enjoy discussing business with our husbands instead of refreshing banter over a margarita.
3- We get lobster flavored soy and meal replacements instead of a freshly speared lobster plucked from the ocean.
2- We can gas our own cars in the cold wind with our money that we didn’t spend on underwear, to drive to work or run errands without paying for a taxi.
1- We don’t have ugly impressions on our backsides from being passed out in a hammock for too long.
from Sally & Nancy.... Happy Birthday ROBIN!!!
that we’re glad our sister is in Mexico on vacation
....and we’re not jealous of her...
(in no particular order)
20. Our dogs won't be mad at us for going away and having gone to a big body of water and playing with Frisbee without them; and our cats won't be mad for us going to a big sand-box without them.
19. We can flush toilet paper down our toilet.
18. We get to smell the aroma of wet dog coming in from out of the rain instead of the stench of sour bathing suits.
17. We get to remove our damp pantyhose and heels at the end of the day; instead of brushing the sand out from between our toes.
16- We get to hear people tell us, "You look tired this afternoon." instead of "You look tan and refreshed."
15- We don’t have to hide the key to our room safe in a strategic place in our bathing suit.
14- We don’t have to summon enough hot air to blow out the whole 41 candles on our birthday cake.
13- We can understand the conversation in the booth behind us while having dinner out without using our phrase book.
12- We can enjoy watching our trees and spring buds freeze and die without worrying over a hurricane.
11- Our sexy underwear wasn’t rifled through by the TSA at the airport.
10- We can enjoy a glass of tap water.
9- We can chip off fresh ice from the ice storm and add to our glass of tap water.
8- We enjoy the exercise provided by freezing our buns off while retrieving firewood, instead of a walk on the beach.
7- We can clean our own homes, and don’t have to tip for maid service.
6- We don’t have to use our lint rollers to clean the pet fur off of the suitcases to travel.
5- We didn’t have to go to Victoria’s Secret for new thongs, or shop for specialty underwear just to take a vacation.
4- We get to enjoy discussing business with our husbands instead of refreshing banter over a margarita.
3- We get lobster flavored soy and meal replacements instead of a freshly speared lobster plucked from the ocean.
2- We can gas our own cars in the cold wind with our money that we didn’t spend on underwear, to drive to work or run errands without paying for a taxi.
1- We don’t have ugly impressions on our backsides from being passed out in a hammock for too long.
from Sally & Nancy.... Happy Birthday ROBIN!!!
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
The Valentine's Day GPS launch!
Today, I was awoken at 6 AM with a lovely new Magellan Global Positing System from the Mr.
I was thrilled; and spent a good part of the day (after I woke back up around 10!) trying to get acclimated to the new unit. I'd never gotten all that familiar with the Garmin unit I'd borrowed; so, I've still got tons to learn in navigational tactics.
By about 2 o'clock; Mae and I had gone to visit the local Civil War Soldier Statue and documented it as Waypoint #2. Waypoint #1 being (of course!) HOME! Still not exactly sure what I'm doing.. but- at least I can accomplish that!
By about 5 o'clock- the dogs and I were ready to make our first venture to search for an actual cache. Not the wisest of decisions; going with no other company than the dogs (one of whom is not the best away from home or on a tandem leash).
Oh, well. We took to the Island Point trail at Lake DeGray.
After the first 1k feet I realized that there was NO WAY I was going to be able to:
a.) keep myself from falling down if I kept my eyes on the GPS screen;
b.) keep the dogs from wrapping themselves and me up in the leashes; and
c.) ever hope to finding the cache.
But- hey! We were OUT, on the trail headed towards the lake and the temperature was pleasant for walking!
I did finally decipher the clue given (with the co-ordinates) while trying to juggle the camera, the GPS, the map AND the leashes. How funny is this?? The clue reads: "I've fallen down and can't get up!" I was just hoping it wasn't prophetic!! Well- the clue gave me enough to look for; but, there were sooo many of them (downed trees) it could actually be and I still don't know the GPS well enough to actually allow it to direct my steps. I will give the dogs credit. Wrigley, especially, can follow a trail quite accurately and is pretty good at pacing. He and I have been walking together long enough that we can both anticipate one another's movements and he did his best to "lead" Sandy-dawg along to the edge of the lake without dragging me down the bank!
They enjoyed dipping their paws in and posed for a picture or two. Again, Wrigley knows just what is expect of him as my most willing photographic subject and I thanked him for it! We were a little too early to witness the sunset even though we passed a couple obviously on their way to the island point that would have just enough time to get settled in with their picnic to enjoy it. I started once to ask them if they were cachers but didn't want to hold them up.
Sandy-dawg was most relieved when she realized we were back at the car. I was relieved I'd not fallen down! Wrigs and I were both happy to drop her off at her house and get home to our comfy sofa and some dinner! Perhaps, I'll get some help in understanding the machine a little better and in the meantime, Dad has an extra lap-top I can use for caching and loading the GPS coordinates.
There is at least one cache on our way to UAMS tomorrow and there are TONS of them between here and Fayetteville when we take our trip this weekend! Dad isn't nearly as interested as I'd hoped he'd be; but, Kim's hubby, Sandy, does seem interested and they do like to hike- so I may have some trail-buddies after all.
Maybe I can even get Mr B himself interested enough to drag the canoe out and up a river to see what we can "see"! He was especially concerned that the GPS unit he purchased had two qualities... a.) it MUST be crash-worthy as I've not got the best record of staying on my feet or from dropping expensive electronic equipment and b.) water (and coffee!) proof! *Grin* He knows me only too well! All in all- a pleasurable day even though I didn't find my first cache! Maybe that's just as well! The dogs couldn't have taken pictures of it happening anyway!!
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Coincidences abound!
For some time now, I've been noticing this "other" red Crown Victoria ('95 model) running around my lil' town.
Yesterday-- I was stunned to see it at the gas pump when I pulled in to gas up! I got out of my car and the young man looked up and all I could think of was... "nice car!" He grinned and said, "Yeah, yours too!"
As I was gassing up I wondered if his car had similar "issues" as mine. So- I asked him. "Hey! How many miles you got on yours"" and he replied that it was over 250k. Mine only has 183k or so; so there was a good chance that they did have the same transmission problems. I asked him that- and he said "Yeah! Like between 60 and 70 it shimmys!" Mine does that between 30 and 40 and apparently it's not uncommon with that year model.
He continued, "I have a '72 Chevy pickup; but, my dad gave me this when I was having to commute to Hope." How weird is that? My car is a recylce from my Dad to my sister and then to me! He said "We call mine the Grandpa car!" and yet again- I've referred to mine as the "Grandma car" ever since Scott N. made that comment driving home from the movies one night!
He looked at mine and said "Yours is looking a lot better than mine." It does and I was thinking that's because I've not let a teenager drive mine much! When he say "Nice meeting you- my name's Jesse Patch" I was so stunned! I asked "J-E-S-S-E?" and he nodded and I said that's my child's name!
Then, before he left he said "I'm the assistant manager at Pizza Hut, look me up when you come in there!" and I was so shocked! I live just around the corner from the Pizza Hut!
Life's like that! So many parallels. So many coincidences. They are fun and surprising when you've driven past them time and time again and finally have the opportunity to stop and just make casual exchange! And... it's more than pleasant when for a while I'd seen that car and seen the young men in their ski caps and thought they just looked like a bunch of young hooligans- only to find out they are just going to school and making a buck at the local pizza joint.
I love my hand-me-down sedan. It's a joy to drive and now it'll blink it's headlights at the "twin" car in town!
Yesterday-- I was stunned to see it at the gas pump when I pulled in to gas up! I got out of my car and the young man looked up and all I could think of was... "nice car!" He grinned and said, "Yeah, yours too!"
As I was gassing up I wondered if his car had similar "issues" as mine. So- I asked him. "Hey! How many miles you got on yours"" and he replied that it was over 250k. Mine only has 183k or so; so there was a good chance that they did have the same transmission problems. I asked him that- and he said "Yeah! Like between 60 and 70 it shimmys!" Mine does that between 30 and 40 and apparently it's not uncommon with that year model.
He continued, "I have a '72 Chevy pickup; but, my dad gave me this when I was having to commute to Hope." How weird is that? My car is a recylce from my Dad to my sister and then to me! He said "We call mine the Grandpa car!" and yet again- I've referred to mine as the "Grandma car" ever since Scott N. made that comment driving home from the movies one night!
He looked at mine and said "Yours is looking a lot better than mine." It does and I was thinking that's because I've not let a teenager drive mine much! When he say "Nice meeting you- my name's Jesse Patch" I was so stunned! I asked "J-E-S-S-E?" and he nodded and I said that's my child's name!
Then, before he left he said "I'm the assistant manager at Pizza Hut, look me up when you come in there!" and I was so shocked! I live just around the corner from the Pizza Hut!
Life's like that! So many parallels. So many coincidences. They are fun and surprising when you've driven past them time and time again and finally have the opportunity to stop and just make casual exchange! And... it's more than pleasant when for a while I'd seen that car and seen the young men in their ski caps and thought they just looked like a bunch of young hooligans- only to find out they are just going to school and making a buck at the local pizza joint.
I love my hand-me-down sedan. It's a joy to drive and now it'll blink it's headlights at the "twin" car in town!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Turning a New Leaf
We humans hate change. I, myself- abhor changes. Most of them, anyway. I used to think I looked forward to changes- but, the older I become, the more I realize I prefer certain things certain ways and am unwilling to change them. That's not to say that I'd don't love a new operating system or a new hair-do.... I mean in the area of personal habits.
I DETEST the word: diet. Of all the dirty, filthy words in the English language- that ONE word is probably the word I resent hearing the most. I can watch an R-rated movie and nowadays (used to this wasn't the case) I don't even flinch when I hear the f-word. But-- the "D" word.... oh man! It sickens me, turns my guts and now it's a way of life I'm leading. How ironic.
I guess the first step to desensitizing myself to that word was saying it aloud and frequently in everyday conversation. Just like Elle's character using legal jargon in "Legally Blonde"! I still don't really appreciate the deeper meaning of the word calorie and how a calorie is the unit standardized to measure food energy. I mean.... a food item full of calories, such as a candy bar; should (and usually does) create a gigantic burst of energy. So if all things being equal in our little universe (recall the theory of for every action there's an equal and opposite reaction); then, WHY do our bodies STORE that energy rather than expending it immediately? Seems to me that if you "saved" it; it would lessen the amount of potential energy. But, NOOOO- if your body "saves" that energy it packs it into unwanted fat-packets and they do nothing but slow the rest of the energy levels down.
Oh, well-- that's all rhetoric and too bad that even the act of expending extra verbage doesn't do anything towards counting towards caloric output. So... it's off to the bike for me! I can hardly wait for the first two weeks to be over.. then, I can have some veggies again!
I DETEST the word: diet. Of all the dirty, filthy words in the English language- that ONE word is probably the word I resent hearing the most. I can watch an R-rated movie and nowadays (used to this wasn't the case) I don't even flinch when I hear the f-word. But-- the "D" word.... oh man! It sickens me, turns my guts and now it's a way of life I'm leading. How ironic.
I guess the first step to desensitizing myself to that word was saying it aloud and frequently in everyday conversation. Just like Elle's character using legal jargon in "Legally Blonde"! I still don't really appreciate the deeper meaning of the word calorie and how a calorie is the unit standardized to measure food energy. I mean.... a food item full of calories, such as a candy bar; should (and usually does) create a gigantic burst of energy. So if all things being equal in our little universe (recall the theory of for every action there's an equal and opposite reaction); then, WHY do our bodies STORE that energy rather than expending it immediately? Seems to me that if you "saved" it; it would lessen the amount of potential energy. But, NOOOO- if your body "saves" that energy it packs it into unwanted fat-packets and they do nothing but slow the rest of the energy levels down.
Oh, well-- that's all rhetoric and too bad that even the act of expending extra verbage doesn't do anything towards counting towards caloric output. So... it's off to the bike for me! I can hardly wait for the first two weeks to be over.. then, I can have some veggies again!
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