Quickie Update

Let me see, where do I start. Work is the same and despite my best efforts to "fix stupid" the people keep finding ways to evade the fix. These are the same ones now bringing their home laptops to work so they can do some work. It is only a matter of time till someone launches a virus and ruins a few days of my life. If you don't know how to connect a ethernet cable in order to get internet and email ... who is to say you know how to update your virus protection. Other than that the new server is almost done and that will eat up a Saturday.

Bowling is fine. The kid's split (2-2) with Michaela setting a 58 average. The Adult league team went 7-0 against a team we always struggle with but there are 27 weeks to go and a lot can happen.

Wild Mom is camping in the Motorhome. She loves being in the woods and releasing her wild side. All I can do is wait for the Sheriff's phone call. Everything is set for the cruise and all we have to do is wait.

Lady is happy since #1 is home for a week. Work is the same, too much to do with too little time. Also keeping her smiling is her new curtains for the living room arrived.

#1 is home and visiting all his friends. It is fun having him here. I would have expected maybe the Colorado air to help improve his looks but I was proved wrong. He is now a Broncos/Rockies lover.

#2 is working a fairly irregular schedule, so we never know when he will be home or gone. He is turning into a regular game junkie who knows everything about every game. I still don't understand his trade of a Wii for a 360. Maybe he subscribed to his brothers theory of the "game cheats" when he lost and traded for an honest game box.

Princess is working several nights a week and going to school. Her grades seem to be OK though it is a few more weeks until the final ones. She finally chose her excursions for the cruise. Jet Boat acrobatics for someone who gets car-sick is hard for me to grasp. Booger is the same. Too stupid to learn.

Lew and Serenity spent the weekend and kept us busy. we celebrated Lew's 4th birthday and had some fun. The Leapster kept him busy and the DVD's got a rest.

Brrrr

The weekend is over and I am back at work. Talk about a downer! The highlight of the weekend was spending it with two great grand kids ... Punk and Lil Princess. It was tiring but a lot of fun. Of course, I had a lot of time to hold Lil Princess. That was nice, as Princess has grown up and doesn't care for that anymore. Like usual, the naps were a great part of it too. After several weeks of missing our Mexican food at El Agave, we made it this weekend. Sunday was filled with Bowling and the newest addition to our team bowled and managed to average 31 for the three games. We should get some nice handicap from her like perhaps 155 pins. 9 Days till #1 shows up. I know we are all looking forward to seeing him since it has been about 5 months since his last visit. #2 learned the joys of working and being the new kid on the job. he was called in on Sunday to help with inventory. I even had a friend who observed him when he came to their house and commented on how much he has grown up. We got into a fight since they obviously weren't talking about #2 and I didn't want them to ruin his reputation. I didn't see too much of Princess between work, fire stations and my schedule. We did spend time on Sunday bowling and I really enjoyed it. On the downside, I miss our Saturday dates, sniff, sniff. Shoot, she even thought she would beat me in bowling. Now, that is a kid with high expectations! I best help her come back down to earth and face reality. Even #1 tried to climb that mountain and only manage to slide back down a little muddier and wiser for the attempt. Booger hasn't changed and spent most of the weekend in trouble. Lady about barbecued him after he stole some meat from the counter. "If that dog eats it then I will still get to cook it even in him." There will be a day when enough is enough.

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Well, NY Mets really showed us how great they were. Someone needs to stamp a big "L" on their forehead.

Best thing about the Redskins bye week is that they didn't blow the lead and lose again. Maybe if they hired Parcells he could bring us a winning team?

I hope Atlanta Braves go home now and figure out if they will play next year like they are capable of or will they just settle for some .500 ball.

Baseball without Juicer Bonds. How nice that sounds. I hope some other baseball owners keep their integrity and let him sit on the sidelines forever!

I still maintain there is no rehabbing a convicted sex offender ... when will we learn?

2007 Renn Faire

Some pictures from the Renn Faire. There would have been more but my batteries were almost dead and I didn't have any spares. :)



A little MayPole action ...

Scene from "Fight School"


Learning about "QuarterStaffs"


Elephants to Ride ... Maybe they were used to haul in some of those ladies who were busting out of their costumes. :)



Looking down one of the many lanes ...


Another direction ...


Celtic, Irish, Scottish music ... By Molly.


the dancer on the left danced the Irish jigs.


This young Lass was good as she danced to the Scottish music. I was impressed how fast she went and the floor of the stage was painted and unfinished two X fours. No indoor dance stage for her. If memory serves me, she could beat out 170 steps a minute.


My Favorite ... The O'Danny Girls ...


A little closer ... but far enough away to keep it PG.


All in all it was a grand time to be had by all. Till next time or next year ...

Fall is near.

Well, another weekend is upon us. I survived the week with minimal damage. The weather is so nice I find myself wishing I had a good reason to go back to the Renn Faire. It is mid-70's, low humidity and lots of sun. Not sure what is on the weekend agenda. I think tonight is Logan's Road House. Beer and beef ... God's staple for the real man.

Two months until the December cruise.
Six months until Nationals in Albuquerque NM.
Eight months till a Graduation Cruise to somewhere.

Work is the same. Several hardware changes are in the process of getting setup and should provide me a chance for some unpaid overtime. What a country! Tom has been in Charlotte NC. all week goofing off, actually he is supposed to be attending a convention but he will never tell.

Wild Mom is fine and preparing for her #2 son to come home from England for a few weeks.

Lady is fine. She is enduring the audit and staff meetings. I wonder if I could convince her to quit and runaway with me?

#1 will be here in two weeks. What can we do to entertain him? Hmmmm.

#2 continues to work a schedule that bounces all over the clock and days. But it is work. And he gets to deal with all the new games, could we say perpetual childhood?

Princess is still in school. She has missed a few days due to personal stuff. I haven't heard much on how school is going or her personal life lately. Who knows, maybe one day I will. Booger is still the same crap-colored pain in the tush.

Sure hope I can see Lil Princess and Lew this weekend. It is a bummer when mom works all the time. I miss those evening visits.

Not much from Kritty this week. She is driving that new car all the time and she hasn't figured a way to get Internet in the car yet. Maybe by December the newness will wear off and she will drop by again.

Ashley is working hard at her new job so that is why she hasn't been by.

My friend Blue is recovering from a medical problem in Terra Haute Indiana. Get well, dude and hurry back to Virginia.

And You Thought I Was One of a Kind!!!!

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 17,869 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

Arrrrrgh

Well, the Renaissance Faire was a blast. Where else can you see great scenery and entertainment? The theme this weekend was Pirates. We went to several shows featuring Celtic, Irish, Scottish and gypsy music. The crowd was larger this year but we managed to see all we wanted too. The O'Danny Girls are still my favorite followed closely by Fight School. Lady liked the men in tights, it appeared that there were more of them this year. I still believe some of the women walking around the faire have no business wearing a corset that small. One old woman had them squeezed in so much the blood veins were popping out. My theory on being so tight is that if you squeeze them enough even the wrinkles will disappear.

Wild Mom is all ready to go but a small cloud dampened the fun as Bubbles passed on. We will miss the dog. Therefore, Wild Mom now has a green light to travel. I wonder if she can wear the motor home out before my brother gets there. Hmmm.

Lady enjoyed the weekend and I still could not get her to buy that women's breastplate to wear. She is a special woman and one I am proud to be around and a part of her life.

#1 is barely two weeks away from coming home. Work is busy as they apparently are consolidating inventories.

#2 continues to work and refine his plans to spend money.

Princess is near to finishing the move. Let me see, how long has it been? School is her favorite time and she is constantly trying to find new assignments to complete. Booger is his normal obnoxious self. Princess now wants to go to the renn faire one weekend before they close in October. We will start a lottery to see if you can guess how many times she will fall off or get bucked off her horse when we do the beach ride at Cozumel.

Kritty has a new car but we will not hold it against her that it is a FORD. She did well!

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Good old Washington Redskins ... bragged all week on how they would be 3-0 against the hapless NY Giants. Guess what ... 24-17 says they LOST.

Too little ... too late for the Atlanta Braves. Maybe next year they will realize that you have to play baseball to win not get a free pass and back into the playoffs.

OJ ... put his butt in jail where he belongs. Let him and Vick share a cell and perhaps one of them will grow up and realize what they threw away.

55 and Moving On

Well, it is official now. I can go to Denney's and get the Senior Coffee and Breakfast. It took me a while to get here but I have arrived. The weekend was quiet but busy. I spent my last non-senior day with nine kids at the church. We did many water balloon activities, which included getting wet. While it was a blast, I did get tired later that night. Sunday was the usual of bowling and bowling. The youth team is hanging on to first place as we improved our record to 7-1. The young woman I coach rolled a 203-187-209 for a 599 series. Not bad. The evening shift was fun but we finished the day even better. We had snacks and then cooled off in a hot tub at our friend’s house in Lake Ridge.

Looks like we may go to the Renaissance Faire this weekend if the plans work out.

No changes on the work scene. I got older but they did not get smarter.

Wild Mom is ready to go to the Caribbean. All reservations are set except for the excursions and that will be down this weekend. Bubbles is sick and not doing to well. Prayers are what will do the most. Mom is also occupied with Deszeree. It is hard having to hold her all the time and not break into baby talk.

Lady is tired but slowly catching up at work. She really enjoyed the hot tub.

#1 is coming home 10-17 October.

#2 is just working and trying to figure out bowling on the wii.

Princess slowly expands her working hours and is up to 3 days now. I guess I cannot keep her occupied enough. She is having fun with school and the time should fly by. Booger is the same. If you do not know, she is not ticklish.

Peanut has gone north to live with her family. I did not get a chance to give her the birthday card but I hope she enjoyed her 20th. I know I missed her.

Lottery - Winner or Loser

Is the Lottery good or bad ... You decide.

http://www.wtopnews.com/?nid=104&sid=1247168

Snickers

Many things are happening around the house. The new cabinets are being delivered today. Painting is next on the horizon. Perhaps we can paint that crap colored big dog something more exciting.

Wild Mom is basking in dreams about the new motorhome she has. her and Bubbles sat out there and dreamed of some wild adventures.

Lady is working and maintaining her sanity. Time never seems to stretch far enough to get all the jobs done. Her bowling has improved though.

#1 is working and planning his trip here later this month. Who knows, maybe I will drap him over to the lanes and give him another bowling lesson.

#2 got in some extra work when someone didn't show up on time. Now we must find a way to keep him from misplacing his car keys. Nails and glue?

Princess is doing ok. She is fighting off a cold and sinus stuff. So the move downstairs is equally slowed down. Booger is the same in many ways. With the printer hooked up, I wonder how long before her writing assignments show up in printed form. Oh, I increased the budget item for printer paper to $75.00.

Peanut is rejoing us and will be doing her best to keep us entertained. It is good when one of the kids comes back because we missed her a lot.

Lew loves this coming over every night but hates the going home part. Of course we don't get quite as much stuff down. But it is fun.

Lil Princess is perfect ... what more can I say?

The Grind Begins

Well, I survived another weekend. Everything is back in swing and the word is go-go-go. No planned getaways until December. That is as long as I do not win the lottery and then all bets are off.

Lady barely was rested and primed for going back to work today. I think the retirement fever is closing in fast for her. She loved going to El Agave, as we have not been there in several weeks. Something about Mexican food, that soothes your spirit. On the other hand, is that the tequila?

#1 is off today and perhaps will get things booked for a visit home the end of the month. He has to be careful because soon the snows will keep him confined to snowbunny land.

#2 was paid this weekend. I wonder how much is left. Now the fun comes in stretching that paycheck for XM radio, new car speakers, laptops and many other toys.

Princess found out that Booger has not lost all his parts in the surgery last week. Yes, she screamed bloody murder as the monster came alive. It was fun bowling with her Sunday. She joined my team and we had a great time. These will be some of the special times to be remembered long after we all grow up. See ... I did not mention you slide down the lane any. Booger still has not figured out the obedience stuff ... thick skull.

Lew was fun. Actually, he really surprised us by acting as if he was a lot older. His favorite phrase was "Oh my God!" replacing last weeks "Awesome."

Lil Princess had a rough weekend and was restless for the most part. I was only able to hold her 5-10 minutes at a time before she wanted Momma.

Still on our hearts: Jessi and Traci

Holiday is Over

Well, the summer vacation is over and hopefully we will be able to stay home a bit more. I have a lot of honey-do's piled up and this Saturday could be the first day I have to get started.

The trip to Conway, SC was a lot of fun. We sat around talking a lot but managed to do some sightseeing. The food at the old mansion in Mullins, SC was great. The house lent some atmosphere to the buffet but the food was good. Of course driving around the countryside was harder since our stomachs were so full. I think we checked out the eyelids more than the countryside. The trip home was long but nice. We drove all the way home on US 17. It was very scenic and peaceful and the traffic was not that bad until we got near I-95 in Fredericksburg.

Sadly, work still sucks. I remember a day when people wanted to work here just for the atmosphere. Now, you cannot wait to move on. Cannot fix Stupid still rules.
Complaint: My email and Internet do not work (as she drinks a warm cup of tea.) While standing there other people around the area chimed in that their computers were acting funny.
Fix: Unplug the cup warmer and replugged the network switch power for that set of cubicles.

This weekend bowling gets into high gear for both the Youth league and the Sunday Night league. May 2008 looks so far away.

Lady is slowly catching up and maybe by time of the cruise she will be done. She loved the lazy weekend we spent and was able to chat a lot with Ann and Lynne.

#1 is working. Not sure what the final decision for the apartment is but it must be made by Sept 17. Who knows, maybe he will find a snow bunnie to share with him.

#2 is working also. He also terrorizes the roadway as he drives to work. Now the problem becomes in stretching the paycheck to cover all the stuff he wants to buy. It never seems to go far enough.

Princess is BACK IN SCHOOL. Of course, her health takes a downturn every night in an attempt to stay home the next day. The move continues. At this pace, she will be done about the time Lil Princess starts school. Booger is getting the family jewels chopped off today. Of course, I had to take him and it took 2 hours to get there during morning rush. Another five minutes in the car with him and I would have cut those suckers off without any cost involved.

Lew and Lil Princess are growing up. Hope to see them soon. It has been 5 days since we saw them.

Mormonville is moving to Clarksville TN. Hope they are ready to live in the real world once again.

On The Road Again

Well, we are off to Conway SC for a couple of days. I hope everyone has a great holiday and gets what you want. Life is starting to settle down to a dull roar after this crazy wild summer.

Wild Mom is starting to dream of the Cruise in December.

Lady is enjoying the weekends we are spending all over the place.

#1 is working and planning on a trip home.

#2 is learning about being employed and having to drive through the traffic to get to work.

Princess is slowly learning her lessons as Booger takes her to obedience school. She is still moving stuff downstairs ... that stuff of hers grows the longer you leave it on the floor.

Lew is learning the fun of using Lady's computer for all the neat computer games.

Serenity is perfect though a little cranky a couple of times this week. Therefore, it must be because her mom is pinching her just before she is given to me to hold.

Another young woman we have not seen in a long time popped in a couple of nights this week. That was great and we look forward to seeing more of her now that she has remembered where we live.

Ocean Breeze

The weekend just had to end. We spent it on Chincoteague Island. We swam, went sightseeing and generally goofed off for two days. The seafood was great and the room nice. The drive over there was very scenic and would be worth it anytime. Of course, we had a big contest of who was the whitest and Princess won. Yes, returning to the hustle and bustle of everyday life was very hard. This is definitely a trip we will do again, now we just have to figure out when.

Sunday was the first night of the Sunday Night Bowling league. After a few aches and pains, we managed to split our games. My average was lower than normal but I have 35 weeks to pull it up. No since getting in a hurry. The kid’s league will start on Sept. 9th.

Lady got some rest and had fun especially when it came to shopping in the island stores.

#1 is ok and just trying to decide what to do with his apartment by Sept. 17th. He loved his cookies.

#2 enjoyed himself and Princess thought he was so special. He was able to dodge the jellyfish when he swam in the ocean. He also learned I pick good wine to drink. Another thing he learned was that there is more to eating than fast food. The "Seafood Dream" was great!

Princess also had a great time. She managed to wear out the shutter on the camera. I think most of them were about her. She is now primed for the cruise and eager to go. Her room was worked on all weekend, is minus a few holes in the wall, and painted a shade of blue. Now the bets are on as to how long will it take her to move everything downstairs and empty her old room. Booger had his first obedience lesson and he did not learn a thing. Does that surprise me? No.

If you ever go, only book two nights, they will offer you the third or more for half-price.

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Michael Vick belongs in jail ... let us not turn this into a black vs. white issue. He gambled and fought dogs, it is just that simple.

I will be glad when the elections come around. This Congress and White House is so political driven that they believe this is all about them and their party. It is time for America to speak and run half of the politicians out of town.

I agree with the miner's families. Give them closure and find the men. Do not leave them hanging and wondering if they were alive when the mountain was sealed.

Update 101

Ok, quickie update:

Wild Mom is doing ok and is for the most part topless … trees that is. She might even cruise with us in December.

Lady is working hard clearing up a mess at work.

#1 doing ok and should be home soon.

#2 is adjusting to work. He had to put his car into the shop already, bad radiator and thermostat.

Princess moved downstairs and got her tongue pierced. “No Comment”

Kritty is chomping at the bit for the December Cruise to hurry and get here.

Lew is growing up and has his good and bad days. I must teach him that pool is not golf.

Lil Princess is PERFECT.

Still waiting for our three other doors to be replaced at home.
Still waiting for the new refrigerator.
Still waiting for the new cabinets that were order

Honor the American Heroes ... Not Islam

It is mind boggling what they are doing to the Flight 93 Memorial. Check it out and see if it bothers you too.

The website is:
http://crescentofbetrayal.com/

Another great site with pictures of the memorial:
http://errortheory.blogspot.com/2007/08/tom-burnett-sr-denounces-flight-93.html

I listened to an interview with Rawls and Burnett yesterday and could not believe my ears were hearing this. The Fight 93 Memorial Committee and National Park Service have really dropped the puck on this one. Every member of Congress should demand a deeper investigation before this Crescent is built. The Virginia and DC Delegation should press for a fitting memorial since what happened in Shanksville saved some target in our area from devastation.

Why are we allowing the hijackers to be memorialized along with the heroes that gave up their lives to stop them? Another great case were the victims have no rights and honor and the perpetrator gets all the breaks and honor.

I vote to throw this travesty of a memorial out in the trash can where it belongs and start fresh and focus on the AMERICAN HEROES on Flight 93.

Summer Draws to a close.

Well another week ends. It was like a roller coaster with the emotions running very high and very low. This is life and it doesn’t stop for a moment, even if you want a break or rest. This weekend was very hard with Peanut packing up to move, Princess birthday party, Lew’s acting up, and having to put our youngest cat (14 years), Scaredy to sleep. That was hard. Ask me that last week and I would have said it wouldn’t matter but it did more than I care to admit.

Schedule:
Visit to the Atlantic and Chicoteague Island.

The Youth League ended. The though the team had was loaded with talent, it never really jelled and finished well off the pace. Individually everyone did well, but in a team sport that is a recipe for disaster. The Sunday Night League starts this Sunday and the real bowling begins.

Wild Mom tried to get a tan in her new bikini and the trees blocked her sun. So, the trees are getting removed or topped out. It isn’t nice to mess with Mother. Her free time is spent getting everything tied down in case hurricane Dean changes direction.

Lady is tired after this busy weekend. She is really looking forward to next weekend and some rest.

#1 is doing fine and starting to get ready to come home for a visit.

#2 has his drivers license and a job. After we picked our selves up off the floor at that announcement, we drew a big sigh of relief.

Peanut is moving to Winchester to help out with her Uncle. We will miss her. That feeling started on Sunday when she was packing and taking stuff there.

Princess had her 18th Birthday party. Barring the water balloons, super soakers, water hoses, cake smearing in the face, and other acts of competition, the bottom line it was a success. The turn out was pretty good and the party went well into the early morning.

Lew was a pistol this weekend. We finally had to give in and take him home. I guess old age makes you less tolerant or it brings back memories of younger years and certain kids.

Lil Princess was perfect. Her and I sat and slept most of the time. She loves (and exclusively demands) to sleep curled up on my chest. Of course I protest and then give in.

Hot Times in Virginia

I guess I should get caught up and be a little more diligent in posting here.

Our Schedule:
August – Beach trip
August – Bowling Starts (Last Weekend)
September – South Carolina??
December -- Cruise

In the past two weeks, we have made trips to Indiana and Florida. The trips were great but I am glad to be back home.

Wild Mom enjoyed the visit and did not want us to leave but we had too. We spent time with her while sacrificing a few hours to attend my uncle’s 75^th. I spoke at Wild Mom’s church on Sunday night and everything went well. At least I was not run out of town. I decided against buying the land and trailer next to her. If it had just been land, I would have but I do not need a trailer.

Lady enjoyed the trip because she got plenty of time to hold the Lil Princess. I was limited to rest areas and meals. She is looking forward to getting back to work especially since it is a payroll week.

#1 is working and dealing with a sinus infection so we have not heard a lot from him.

#2 is plodding along and those jobs keep avoiding him. ((tick tick tick))

Peanut is working and saving up money for December. We cannot wait to see her with her new glasses. We must get a picture posted up here.

Princess turned 18. So now, she is grown and independent. We celebrated last night with a dinner, ice cream cake, and presents. She applied for her name change and we should know in a few weeks. I hope I bribed the judge enough. Hmmm! For all my joking, she has a special place in my heart and I would not trade this time for anything.

Punk did very well on the trip. For an almost 4 year old, he was surprisingly cooperative. Of course, the backseat of the car was filled with toys. Oh, 17 hours of “Ice Age” and “Shrek 2” will drive you bonkers … believe me. “Are we there yet?”

Lil Princess slept the time away. The only time we knew she was there was during diaper changes. Of course, in Florida, she was the center of attention.

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Baseball allowed it. Jucier broke a record he should never have been close too. With everyone in BALCO being indicted, how can he say he is clean? “You are known by the company you keep.” To me Hank Aaron will be the Greatest Home Run Hitter there is until someone else with integrity breaks the record. Go A-Rod!!

Well, the Nationals have a new first. Their sorry pitching staff served up the ball for Jucier to hit. It was only fitting a losing team be the goat. They are so bad they could not even put a .500 pitcher on the mound. I vote we cancel the new stadium and let them play in the old stadium as befitting their sad sack ways. Who wants to pay more for less?

Subs and grass

Back to the grind but at least it is a short week. I am paying the price today, as my legs are sore from bowling nine consecutive games yesterday. I needed to pre-bowl for the two weeks I will be gone. The Family picnic and Movie Night was great though I wish more of the kids had been there. The movie was a good one, “Love Comes Softly.” Sunday Lady, Lew and I had a picnic at the park and that was a lot of fun. Carl, Lynne and Paul joined us. I see a common theme here but I wish I could see the idea catch on.

Our Schedule:

Jul 27-30 – Road trip to Indiana to see Lady’s mom.

Aug 03-06 – Road trip to see my Mom.

Wild Mom is planning and scheming in preparation for my visit. Lady will be going along with Missy and the kids (Lew and Serenity). That trip should prove fun.

Lady is spoiling the new princess (Serenity). I am going to have to schedule my time so I can hold her when her eyes are open. I only get a minute or so when she sleeps. She is really looking forward to this weekend. There is a chance her best friend will come also. Therefore, there will be some major league chatting going on.

#1 is working and getting ready for his visit in September. The little birdie says he will move back here if he finds a job or at least that is what I heard.

#2 shows no change. He has a major league allergy to work and does everything to minimize the exposure. However, that will be changing very soon! The lack of a job means no spending money for the cruise and that is a definite bummer.

Peanut works, spends money, and visits friends. That is what I have been told.

Princess is passing out senior pictures, spending time with Davis and Brooke. She has even found some time to go to the fire station and be trained. Nothing has change with Booger except get our irritation levels higher. I figure it is just a matter of time until the Terminator shows up.

Starr dropped by Sunday. Of course, she is aging and made it to the whopping ripe old age of 23. We talked and managed to get caught up on many things. We were happy to find out she is not moving but staying close by.

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The Tour De France continues and I am having fun watching the strategy that is being used to try to win. I think Levi is full of hot air. From what I see, he is reading his press more than creating it. He is nowhere near the rider lance was. Therefore, the American winning streak ends. He says he is waiting for the right time. Well, I see that he is not capable of riding in one stage and build up a commanding lead. He is barely hanging on to the rear wheel of the real leaders. Sorry Levi, lance could dominate a race but you need to work at it a lot harder and sadly, time is running out.

Well Major League Baseball sits idly by as Juicer Bonds assaults the home-run record. I like to watch the game of baseball but not after they sacrifice any integrity they have by turning their heads while a man cheats his way to the top.

A New Star

Serenity Anne Saunders

07/17/07

How many hearts will be broken before she choses the right one?

Quickie 109

I had better write about this weekend before the next one gets here. They are just flying past. I survive my speaking time. I did not forget the words or stumble too bad. Lady and Princess were there. Afterwards, we went to CiCi’s Pizza. Lew managed to steal #2’s plate of pizza. I should have taken a picture because Princess wore a dress. No matter what they say, there is a female in that body.

The trip to Florida for the Family Party is on. I am not sure who will go with me but I will be there.

Wild Mom is having fun putting out grass sod and entertaining Cutie Bug. Her church is starting a new journey after the departure of their pastor. Somehow, I just know they will do well.

Lady starts her baby watch, as Missy grows closer. Will not be any budging her this week.

#1 is working and getting richer.

#2 is still looking for a job and a license. The 97 Honda has not been much motivation so far.

Peanut works and runs around with her friends. She and I did manage to squeeze in a movie, “Harry Potter”. The ice cream afterwards was fun as we went to where Christina worked and spent a few minutes with her as we ate our ice cream.

Princess was her normal self. Fire Station, Brooke, Davis, were part of this weekend. In addition, who could forget “Booger”, he is still alive and doing what he does best, crap, chew, bark, and be a pain in the butt.

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This Tour De France is interesting in that not all the favorites have shown any interest in winning the race; it seems they just do not want to lose it. I have been disappointed in the way; Levi Leipheimer and George Hincappie are riding. For the last few years while Lance was winning, all I heard was how these two were the heir apparent to him. I think they were over-rated from what I have seen so far. They are great riders but not the “Superstar” they could be or should be.

Hmmmm

Effective July 1, 2007, Virginia drivers younger than 18 years of age may not operate a motor vehicle in Virginia while using a cellular telephone or other wireless communications devices.

Tag

The weekend draws nearer. The questions arise as to what new challenges will appear. There will be several things to do so we should be kept busy. Getting the caddy fixed, getting the Van back from the shop and getting the accord registered and on the road.

Future Events:

• August 4 – Family Get-Together in Fla. – Still deciding.
• August 17 – Orioles and Red Sox game at Camden Yards.
• August 24-26 – Ocean Get-Away – Undecided
• August – Indiana Trip to In-Laws
• December - Cruise – just waiting for the day to sail.

A lot of my time has been sent getting ready for this weekend when I fill in for the Pastor who is on vacation. I wonder if I will forget what to say? It has been a while and a twinge of apprehension is there.

Work is plodding along. It is a sad comment when yard work on Saturday looks to be a better alternative than going to work.

Not much to report from the home front as the summer doldrums has set in. #1, #2 and Peanut work while princess goes to Summer School.

##### ##### #####

I heard a news report that said 67% of Baseball fans think Juicer Bonds did something wrong. Has the Commish done anything, why no, not as long as the revenue rolls in. With the indictment over Juicer and BALCO’s head when will he get the cajones to take action?

The Tour De France has been good but the action will pick up as they get into the mountain stages. Time to weed the boys from the men.

Oh, Well

Well, I am alive and still kicking about. The weekend went excessively fast for this old man. It was a quiet weekend and we managed to get all our usual things done, like Mexican Food. Nothing special on the Bowling scene.

I am looking forward to seeing most of the Tour De France over the next few weeks. It is a great substitute to having to watch Juicer Bonds hit those cheap homeruns. Why don’t they make it a great race, bring the fences in about 100 feet, and let others break the record too. The fans will love those 33 to 29 run games. Gee, cork the bat Juicer and let us see some 600-foot homers!

Wild Mom is still keeping busy. She loves being driven around by Cutie Bug. However, Cutie Bug will head for Atlanta shortly to work some more. With them running all over the county, I can imagine the sonny-do list that is building up for my next visit.

Lady stayed busy especially in the exercise arena as she pushes to get things ready for her to wear her bikini on the cruise. Lew managed to keep her busy as usual.

#1 is working up a storm and watching the overtime pile up, just in time to pay a few bills.

#2 is still looking for a job and studying the driver’s book.

Peanut comes and goes between work and spending time with Kritty.

Princess reports no change. Spending time Davis and Brooke comprise the bulk of her free time. Usually ranges everyday from 6 hours during the week to nearly 12 hours on the weekend. The never-ending room cleaning and rearrangement continued this weekend. Booger continues his ways of stealing food from your hand when you look away, especially from the wee ones, but adults are fair game too. So between generating holes in carpet, sharp edges on furniture to chew down, food raids from your hand, and chewing anything not locked up behind the closet door and using Lil-Bit as a chew toy, nothing in his short life has changed.

Rats

The nice thing about this week is it has a holiday right in the middle. Therefore, it will be tolerable and a little less of a pain in the arse.

We went to the movies Saturday to see the rat movie, Ratatouille. Lew liked it though it did drag in a couple of places.

Everything keeps plodding along at work. I wonder what it would be like to be a Park Ranger and be outside all the time. Hmmm!

Wild Mom is going to the family reunions and getting to see all our kin. Cutie bug is keeping her busy. Maybe one day we will get to see her again before she cruises.

Ronda had some old age tests done and she passed with colors. No, I did not say she passed being old but passed what the test was hunting for. Sheesh, got to be careful what I say or the shade tree lawyers will take it wrong.

#1 working so hard he has not had time to call. Gee, he might make his first million by the age of 30!

#2 is dreaming of a car but keeps being tripped up on the hurdles labeled “job” and “license.”

Booger finally got his shots. Well, Booger got revenge and barfed all over and I mean ALL OVER the back seat of that truck. The jury is still out as to why he was not in his cage in the truck bed or in the owner’s car. However, why sweat such small details. Princess got her proofs back for her senior pictures. So that touched off a round of “which one is best?”

Peanut is busy at work and running around in the new car and the sleep time has paid the price.

***** *****

Well, no watching the All-Star game for me. Juicer Bonds is playing. What a role-model ... showcase him as a product of doing what is needed to win, no matter if a few rules are broken.

The Nationals keep amusing me in how many ways you can lose a ball game. Of Course, though they won't admit it, the Orioles are ahead of them by 4 games. Maybe the Nationals need a new Manager?

I love my new benefit of being a Virginia resident. New and improved "Civil Remedial Penalties". Never mind that the illegal living down the doesn't have to pay the fine when he does the same offense, I should count it a privilege too. This kind of of legislation is a product of elected officials who have no contact with their voters and a total disregard that we can't do anything about it.

Color of My Soul

What color is your soul painted? Orange Your soul is painted the color orange, which embodies the characteristics of balance, heat, enthusiasm, flamboyance, playfulness, aggression, over-emotion, danger, desire, strengthens the ability to concentrate, attraction, adaptability, and stimulation. Orange falls under the element of Fire, and symbolizes glory and fruits of the earth. Click Here to Take This Quiz

Quizzes and Personality Tests

Quickie 108

Well, the weekend is here. Once again, the week has flown by.

Work is the same. I have a great day for 16 hours then I go to work.

I am hoping some rain will come along and turn the grass green once again. However, it is fun not to have to cut and trim it.

Vacation plans underway for a weekend trip to the Ocean for some swimming and in the case of the girls, guy watching. Hmm, how quickly do we forget? The fun part is finding a weekend convenient to everyone.

Looks like #2 likes the 97 Honda so I will sell the van now. It is a nice car and should prove to be a good learner car. I put the caddy into the shop to catch up on some repairs that it needed. I think that is good since I have put 26000+ miles on since last August.

Wild Mom continues with the ditch wars and is trying to get the County to do something. Cutie bug is planning another trip to Atlanta.

Lady is having fun getting some tests (over-50 tests) done. Notice that she is getting them first. I the young whippersnapper will have to break down some day and get them done too. However, I always say, “Put off today what you can do tomorrow.”

Yeppers

Vacation Bible School is over. I believe everyone had a great time though by the end of the week the Teachers and Workers were pretty well worn out. I know I was dragging a bit. Work sucks with no light at the end of the tunnel.

Wild Mom is keeping Cutie Bug occupied and running around. Now Cutie bug is driving her around. That should present a few laughs. No idea if Brother #1 will come and spend some time with Wild Mom.

Lady is busy. However, she finds time to go to Baby and wedding showers. Maybe I can convince her to wear a bikini on the cruise. She has plenty of time to make it fit (I think she is ready now.)

#1 still getting over a sinus infection and working long hours. Will not be long until he is ready for another vacation.

#2 was a tremendous help at VBS. He also went with me to the Father/Son dinner and that was very nice.

Peanut got a new car. Do not know much about it since she has kept us out of it. You have to be special to get a ride in it. Work goes on and now with the car, she can get more hours.

Princess is the same. She spends most of her time with Davis and Brooke. She is going back toBuckhall some though not all the time as before.

Missy had a shower for the baby and got many goodies. Now we just have to wait for her arrival.

Clear as a Bell

Lately people have said they don't understand me. Well, here are some handy rules to understand me. We always hear "the rules " from the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our rules! Please note ... these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE! If after this you still don't understand, then talk to me and take your chances.

1. Men ARE not mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly Acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only If you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem . See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria 's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something Or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not! A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will Be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, Bowling or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Author Unknown ...

0 and 9

It amazes me how much backstabbing goes on at a Christian Radio station. They claim to be Christian and do everything to “get ahead” or to insure they look good. Their motto is “can’t be my fault, it has to be yours.” I would expect there be some “Christ like” attitudes and work with others to get the job done. However, sadly, being Christian is relegated to the time you are at church and nowhere else. That is unless you are trying to impress someone and then you act it out.

Bible School continues and everyone is learning and having fun. My poor knees really complained about kneeling down as much as I did. Thanks to #2, Kritty, and Josh for their help. It is fun watching them act out the parts.

##### ##### #####

Way to Go Orioles, changing the manager really helped extend your losing streak to nine. Today the added another layer of front office. Geez, just what they needed. Don’t fix the problem just add to it.

Congrats Nationals for another sterling performance.

This last beltway wreck gets interesting. The Family says alcohol was not a factor though alcohol was found in the car full of underage kids. WTOP says their source says alcohol was not a factor but the autopsy will not be done for a week or so. Then the VA police open a criminal investigation into the source of that alcohol. The presence of alcohol is a mute point if there was none in the passengers or driver. So what gives?

9 to 8

I took a break last night to go to the Nationals – Tigers ball game at RFK. I had a great view as I sat on the third base side with a direct line of site to home plate. The best part was the Nationals lost. Now it is back to reality and its demands.

Wild Mom is partying away with Cutie Bug.

Lady is busy with VBS but I do love her.

#1 must be sleeping a lot because of the meds he is taking. Now I have to figure out what he changed on the sound system so my DVD’s will have audio. Kids!.

Today is picture day for Princess and believe me; it looked like she was moving with all the bags she took with her. I think NCL will have a tender follow us in December just to carry all her clothes. All I needed for my Senior Pictures was a shirt and tie and the cap and gown.

Well, Virginia highways got a little more crowded as Peanut got her operator’s license. Not that she is not already an operator but now she can drive too. I wonder how long until the “daddy, can I use the car please” start up. Actually, the phrase "I need a car" will come first. I am proud of her and hopefully this will be just another step in turning the corner to a better life that she has some control over.

Vacation Bible School went well for the first night. Tonight, your’s truly will get his turn in the barrel. I think there were about 24 kids there. I know Princess, Peanut and #2 were there to help. It took all we could do to keep #2 from being a class member of the nursery class. It was tough convincing them he was really an adult in disguise.

##### ##### #####

Way to go Orioles. After 10 losing seasons, you fired the manager, just like the previous 9 times. Isn’t it about time you consider that you have a bad team and should get rid of the deadweight? The manager can motivate a bad team just so far. Why not get rid of Flanagan, obviously he can’t find quality players to draft. But then again, Angelos runs the show and we all know he is a loser. Maybe he will wake up and fire the whole Front Office!

Make Nifong pay for all the damages.

Summer Vacation 1

Why does time have to fly so fast? This weekend was over so fast.

Friday we had dinner at “Sweetwater’s” and celebrated our friend’s 33^rd anniversary. I just cannot imagine being married that long! The same person! The food was great and we laughed a lot.

Saturday started with a shopping trip for new tops to wear for senior pictures. Princess made it interesting. This is twice now we started looking for tops and such on the right hand side of the store and finished buying from the left hand side. Next came Mexican food with the bowling prodigy and her family. We wanted to roll a few games on “real wood” lanes. Therefore, we made it an outing to Warrenton. The evening ended at the “Father and Son” dinner at church. That was fun and I was able to spend some time with #2. Unbelievably we even had a casual and civil discussion of several things.

Sunday was Father’s Day. We ate lunch, grilled burgers and dogs, with our friends. Peanut, Kritty, Lew and #2 went with us. Their being there was special and something I had not expected. There must have been something in the air over there since my right eye tended to get cloudy. It finally cleared up. Bowling was ok as the two kids finally started bowling again and we went 3-1 so our record is back to .500. The night ended with me setting up my classroom for vacation Bible School that starts tomorrow and runs until Friday.

Travel:
--- Trip to Florida (August) is still up in the air.
--- Trip to Indiana (July) is in the cooker.
--- Cruise to Western Caribbean (December) is booked and now we are trying to save enough money for it.

Wild Mom is working on her tan for the next cruise. Cutie bug is there and entertaining her. They must be busy since Cutie bug has not called me yet.

#1 is fighting with a sinus infection and sure could use some chicken soup. Not exactly the best time to get sick with the summer work crunch coming up fast.

Mormonville has responded with a CD of pictures of the new kid. She must be almost 5 months now. Gee, next the people will be banging on her door asking for a date.

Hot Hot Hot

Well, Friday is here and the week is done. Of course, it had to be hot (mid-90) but some rain will come in a few hours or so the weatherman says.

Last night, Bible Study turned into a go out to dinner night since 50% of the people were not there.

Today was taking Lady and Peanut to lunch day at Red Robin and naturally, they ate their share. I am glad they brought back their A-1 Peppercorn Burger back. I was a bit tired today after Peanut talked my ear off for almost 2 and one half hours last night. She has a lot of skills and talking ranks high on the list.

Sunday is going to be a full day with church, bowling and Max’s birthday cookout. Best part of this cookout is that I do not have to stand over the grill. Those three and four burner rigs really generate the heat and my poor arms and hands do not like it.

Wild Mom is getting ready for cutiebug to arrive next Thursday from London. Sure, wish I could be down there to see her but who knows … maybe in August we can. Mom is getting ready for the big yard sale next weekend. That should net her enough to qualify as a millionaire with all the junk she will have to sell. Mom is one of a kind. Most son’s have to deal with moving furniture around when they are there … I have to move storage sheds around. She has passed by an Alaskan cruise next month because of some issues but her Western Caribbean one is locked in stone.

Peanut is learning to drive so she can get a license and that means buying a car. OH boy. She has even volunteered to drive me to Warrenton tomorrow to check out some cars over there. We might even find some time for some Mexican Food while we are there. I guess I best buy some Grecian Formula on the way home tonight to cover up the gray from that experience.

Turn California into a Penal Colony

Can you believe it … Paris is out of jail because of “unspecified medical reason.” How many people are in jail or prison with major medical problems? Do they get out to go home?

In an article, about 30 states and the federal prison system have either a "medical parole" law that is overseen by the state parole board, or a "compassionate release" procedure, that is legislated or part of an internal department of corrections procedure that allows for the early release of dying prisoners. Just fewer than 100 inmates were released under medical parole or compassionate release laws in 1997, according to the National Institute of Corrections. That number is down from 143 inmates released in 1996 and 214 released in 1994, according to the National Institute of Justice.

In another article, while talking about primarily HIV, they list numbers of other inmates with other illnesses. Do they get to go home to deal with it … NO; they stayed locked up and cared by the medical staff in prison. Here is a brief excerpt:

According to a recently completed national survey of county and municipal jail inmates, an estimated 229,000 had a medical problem other than a cold or a virus. About 26 percent reported having had a dental problem since admission, 13 percent said they had been injured while in jail, and one percent said they had undergone a surgical procedure. Among the current medical problems reported, jail inmates were most likely to report having arthritis (13 percent), followed by hypertension (11 percent), and asthma (10 percent). Other specific problems were heart conditions (6 percent); kidney problems and tuberculosis (4 percent each); stroke, diabetes, and hepatitis (3 percent each); as well as cancer, paralysis, liver problems, HIV, and STDs (about 1 percent each). About 6 in 10 jail inmates age 45 or older reported having a current medical problem, compared to 1 in 4 inmates age 24 or younger. Since their admission to jail, more than 40 percent of all inmates reported having had a medical examination. One-third of jail inmates reported an impairment including learning, speech, hearing, vision, or mobility. Eight percent of jail inmates reported a mental or emotional condition that kept them from participating fully in school, work, or other activities.

The bottom line is MONEY MATTERS. Be famous and have a lot of money and you do what ever you want. How many celebrities in Southern California have bought their freedom (OJ, Blake, Crowe). Hollywood is a sad excuse for role models. While we are at it, get rid of the judge that was so corrupt he allowed this to happen.

Another good blog about Paris.

American Citizens should raise the roof over how the Justice System has been subjugated to Money and Fame. If you are one of the few who live in that social class, then don't worry. But if you do not, you should be screaming on how wrong this was, because I can assure you when you get in trouble, you will go to jail for the full sentence.

Ba Humbug!

Do you realize it is Thursday and the weekend is 1 more day away? I had better go find the turbo button and get us there faster. That also means only 4 days until Cheng returns and I don't have to deal with the "stupids" anymore.

Maybe I will desert the "Us" generation and join the "Me" generation. Just blow off anything that doesn't benefit me and the more it benefits me and not you the better. It will be fun only worrying about me because I am satisfied with what I am doing and where I am going. If everyone else wants to get lost or struggle, so be it. I will learn to laugh at adversity especially if it effects you and not me. I will work hard to be a dysfunctional person that doesn't care about anyone else. Just like the ones on TV. Of course, I will have to learn to be callous, uncaring, selfish, and exploitative. But it seems everyone else has a head start so I must be even more aggressive in order to make up lost ground.

Well, time to run and get this started.

Munchkins at work

Gulp! I can finally see the light of the day. I think I have enough hours to last me until next week. Sometimes I swear a knucklehead won the job of being boss. Not too much to say since the “stupids” have been running loose and fudging everything up.

The December cruise is booked and down payments made. The countdown to party time is on.

Wild Mom is ready for us to come down and see her. The Family Christmas Party is being done in a couple months. That is a long drive just for dinner one night. However, who knows I might get bit by the “stupids” and just go. By the way, she is just fine still sorting out her vacation pictures.

Lady is busy with work. Peanut has helped but there is still too much to do. Vacation Bible School is in two weeks and that is always good for a lot of work. She teaches and I get to run the synagogue.

I sometimes wonder if I could stand opening up Pandora’s Box and getting everyone’s answer to the question, “What does Family mean to you.” I get the sneaking suspicion the answers would boggle my poor tired mind. I read an interesting article about how the value of the Family has declined and some of the causes. Leading the pact was the loss of the Family dinner at the dinner table. That hour of time meant so much to the fabric of the family and its formation. Close behind is the concept of “Me”. Take all I can get and then move on. Give only enough back to get what you need and never make a commitment for more. After that one, the contributors to the family decline seemed to drop off. However, the one that interested me was “The word “love” became trivialized. Like the word “sorry”, the word “love” was used without consideration for what it meant. The feeling behind the word became hollow and meaningless. The phrase “I love you” became nothing more than “Here is a treat” to get what I wanted. Sorry and Love were rote responses to any question. Love being for some affection or just to be liked while sorry was a quick way to pass blame or avoid it. There is a loss of connection if the words mean nothing or they are used to deflect anything of any importance. Where did it crumble, when did it slip? I do not know and I do not like it. It makes you feel like mom and dad are nothing more than motel clerks in a busy city. The Family dinner is something that is shared only by mom and dad while the others race off for the fast food joints to get their daily fix of fat and calories. The diet becomes nothing more than slimming down of your connections with those you claim to love. Family Time becomes nothing more that a way of self-gratification or an expression of love and sorry. It is almost like a trophy because most other friends have nothing. Whose fault is it or where to place the blame? One could look away, accept less even if it is 5 minutes or say something. You cannot say much since if the love and sorry have no meaning then it will not be much of a loss if you get pissed and walk off. If it is wrong then call the mouse a mouse. However, that will not work either because it is “me” that means the most. Trivialize the family to nothing more than a stolen minute from what really matters to you … everything else.” Perhaps the best thing is to get drunk and then your imaginary friends will soothe your spirit but then again in an hour, they would vanish and you would be alone once again. Ok, whose bright idea was it to go down this road or is this just a dream concocted by the Democrats?

I love the one ... I want to be your friend but you are not good enough to be my friend. Go find another idiot to sucker in.

It's Hot

Can you believe June is here already? The year is almost ½ gone. This weekend was pretty much the same as the others before it. Too many chores and not enough time but I will take care of that this week.

Work maintained its level of irritation and even added some as Cheng was on vacation. How long do you have to work before you learn the basics of your job? As we always say – you cannot fix stupid!

Friday was dinner with friends. No kids but not because they were not invited, they swear they do not like Chinese food. Oh well.

Saturday turned into a BBQ and homemade ice cream affair at some friend’s house. Once again, no kids. I wonder what happened to doing things as a family. With everyone, working or going to school during the week, the only free time is on the weekend. I guess it make real sense to spend the weekend everywhere else.

Sunday was the normal church in the morning and bowling later in the evening. Most of the afternoon was spent watching the golf match. I love that combination since it allows me to relax my eyelids and decrease some of the daily stress. Lil-bit was clipped, dipped and powdered so he was extra frisking especially since he can see now that his bangs are very short.

Wild Mom is readjusting to life on the land after her cruise. Must be tough. She is already planning another on to the Western Caribbean in February 2008.

Lady is going to baby showers and wedding showers. Therefore, she is in major party mode.

#1 is at home and after all the activity and excitement of our house he is readjusting to the slow and quiet life in his apartment. I believe the plan is for him to visit again in September when his leave time builds up.

One good thing was Lew and his mom, missy, are spending more time with us. That has been nice. Let us keep that good stuff up.

Smooch!!!

You Are a Passionate Kisser

You are the most likely type to kiss a sexy stranger Your kissing style is unpredictable and free spirited You could kiss anyone at a drop of a hat It's all about where your passion leads you

What's Your Kissing Style?

Slurp!!!

You are White Chocolate

You are White Chocolate You are sweet, caring, and truly very innocent. Whether your naive ways are a bit of act or not, people like to take care of you. You are a quiet flirt, and your power is often underestimated!

What Kind of Chocolate Are You?

Pentecost

Well, the weekend has ended and it is back to work. I swear they place a bucket over the door at work and dump crap on you as soon as you walk in. I guess some of these clowns have no life to speak of and just lay around dreaming of how to use the crap they are generating. Let us start the countdown.

I love to be told to be sure to get a new hire a fast computer because they need the speed to work. Apparently, they are that good! I set it up and their first question is “how to turn the screensaver off?” Now this is a real power user, he needs the speed so when he does do something he can catch up from all the time he wasted asking super dumb questions. Another one is the one who wants the new data update installed because they are out of data and need the data to make a presentation to a client. After busting to get the update installed, their first question is “now, how do I use this program and new data?” Never ask them which mail program they use .. Outlook or Outlook Express, they do not have a clue but they have used it forever.

The weekend was full of things. Friday night we (Lady, #1, #2, Peanut, Princess, Kritty and me) went out to dinner at Logan’s and generally had a good time, peanuts and all. Only one glass of soda was spilled but the shells were everywhere and I mean everywhere. After dinner, several of us went to see Pirates 3 at midnight. It was ok but not one I would stand in line for again.

Saturday was busy. The new 3-burner grill was bought and naturally, we had to break it in with burgers and dogs. That night ended with drinks, movies, and s short trip to the ice cream stand.

Sunday was the usual of church and bowling filled in between with catnaps. We picked up a small pool for the deck and Lew. However, more Big Kids have used it than him. Of course, grilled chicken kept a smile on our faces and Lew and his parents spent the day with us. The bowling team went 4-0 to get our record so far to 7-1 and my average climbed to 204.

Monday was a bit more laid back but the afternoon was Shreck 3 followed by BBQ pork chops. Once again, we ate too much this weekend. Lady caught the bug and ended the night feeling bad.

#1 will leave tomorrow for Colorado. Time to go back and pay for this little vacation.

#2 brought his current girlfriend over to meet us. What does she see in him? It was fun and tough not to tease him.

Peanut was there but I did not get to spend as much time with her this weekend as the other attention hog gobbled up my time. Work is going great for her and as soon as she gets a license and car, they will move her up to 40 hours a week. Incentive?

Princess, along with Davis and Booger, were there all weekend. A breakfast with just the two of us started Saturday off nicely. Then she was sunburned (while under Davis’s care) and she was an itchy beast all the rest of the weekend. The dog is hanging on by a thread now not much more and he will be history. She also saw Shreck, well most of it, as her eyes got heavy and she did the snoring part for Shreck. With her laying her head on my shoulder, I had 3-D sound effects.

That was the bulk of what happened this weekend minus a few extra hanger-on kids. Felt like I needed a cattle prod to get some to leave. One time the conversation went like this;

Knock knock
Open the door, “Yes can I help you?
“Is #2 there? No, he is asleep (3 pm) ((True – he was.))
“Well, then is #1 there?” “No, he went out.”
“Well, is Peanut?” “NO.”
“Well, then who is here?” “None of your business.”

Seems like the pattern has been that they have either stunk (are cleanliness impaired) or they have no other life (friend impaired)

T G I F

Well, the weekend is finally here. Work is done and now it is time to play. Last weekend was special and a lot of fun. Who will step up and make this one just as special? Friday will start it off with dinner at Logan’s and who knows what the late night holds. The usual Mexican Food and goofing off is on tap for Saturday. Sunday holds Church and Bowling but a lot of free time in between. Sometime this weekend, I want to see Shrek 3, the question is when and with whom.

Classic Man

Your Score: Clark Gable

You scored 33% Tough, 9% Roguish, 23% Friendly, and 33% Charming!

You're a helluva guy, a real split personality and a bit of an enigma. On the one hand, you're a man's man, tough talking and ready for anything. But on the other hand, you soften your rough and tumble core with a disarmingly smooth exterior, and you make the ladies swoon. You're equally admired by both men and women alike, drinking other men under the table all the while charming the socks off half a dozen lovelies. You're a commanding presence, and you know how to get what - and who - you want when you want it. You're drawn to women who, like you, are savvy enough to deal with the world on their own terms. You work well with spitfires. Leading ladies include Joan Crawford, Myrna Loy, and Jean Harlow. No damsels in distress for you.

Find out what kind of classic dame you'd make by taking the
Classic Dames Test.

Link: The Classic Leading Man Test written by gidgetgoes on OkCupid, home of the The Dating Persona Test

How American are You?

You Are 93% American

You're as American as red meat and shooting ranges. Tough and independent, you think big. You love everything about the US, wrong or right. And anyone who criticizes your home better not do it in front of you!

How American Are You?

Flash - Flash - Flash

#1 is home until 05/28/07. He came to surprise lady on her Birthday. He did surprise her. Apparently, the Colorado water and air did not help his appearance --- he looks the same. Since Princess cannot win a wrestling match against me, she tried #1 and guess what – she lost. Do I need to say anymore? Peanut and Princess are trying to get over the crud since last week. So far, all they do is pass it back and forth. Everyone else seems to be fine. #2 is getting use to having a big brother in the house. Sometime soon according to #2 he will bring his girl friend home. This should be interesting. Booger is still on a suicide mission with his chewing, crapping and wetting, not to mention the jumping up on you. Now he wants to mate with anything he can wrap his legs around – at this rate, he will never make puberty. Maybe it is time for the alcohol and penknife!

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Washington Nationals continue to lose. Good job blowing a 6-run lead.

President Carter opens his mouth about how bad this Administrations Foreign Policy is and he best look at how bad his whole Administration is first. I am sorry to see the Democratic Party use him as an undersized, crazed, little Chihuahua to attack everyone. I guess Bill Clinton is too busy with the office interns to care about this opportunity.

Ship the illegal’s home and let them apply for citizenship and work the correct way. Amnesty degrades what all the real and law abiding immigrants did to get their citizenship. You “catch and release” fish not Illegal Aliens.

Warm Fuzzy's

Well, I survived my brief stint as a Class “B” bachelor. Lady really enjoyed her week away from life.

Wild Mom called from the island of Hilo, Hawaii to say she was having a blast. Now we will find out how much when she gives us souvenirs. I wonder if she will turn down the next cruise, she is offered.

Friday, we (princess, peanut, #2, friend of princess, and me) had dinner at Ruby Tuesday’s. After eating, we had to drag princess out after the Shirley Temple’s kicked in. We managed to get her home without incident. Do you realize that princess snores at 7-db level? She fell asleep while we were watching the movie and had to increase the volume 7-db to overcome that symphony. Everyone else had a great time devouring dips and chips during the movie.

Saturday, Peanut was treated to a manicure and nails followed buy a brief but financially intense shopping spree. She does look great in colors. My favorite is the pink and roses top. We (Peanut, Kritty, #2) had lunch at El Agave and loved it. Peanut liberally covered her food with habanera sauce and then paid the price with tears and sweat. Next time I think she will decrease the sauce level. However, it was fun to see her eyes bug out (like on the cartoons) and gasp for air. We (Kritty, #2 and Lew) watched “Facing the Giants” at our church’s Family Movie Night. I recommend that movie but bring some Kleenex. Princess was gone spending most of the day with her not so called boy friend. I had hoped to spend most of the day with both my girls but I would not trade what I did experience. Peanut did stop the conversation once when she asked for a snake as a pet. That will be a tough decision.

Sunday, included church but with Lew sick and being nauseated most of the day it was quiet. Peanut offered help but I just sent her to be with friends. Princess was pretty much the same as Saturday but this time in her room. Sunday night the Summer Youth Bowling started. I eeked out a 202 starting average. Oh well, that gives me something to chase. I finished the weekend and the day with a quiet dinner with Lady.

Booger for the most part made the time irritable and he pushed the boundaries to the limit. I am a bit concerned that he might hurt Lew as he likes to push Lew around or stand over him. As far as I am concerned, any choice between Lew or Booger means Booger is a memory on some picture. I hope Booger grows up or is trained soon or he will be the main dish at our first summer barbeque.

For the most part the weekend and my Class “B” status was fun. However, having the family events was much more enjoyable. Thanks to those that made it that way.

Brain in Neutral

Well, another weekend is approaching fast. What shall I do because Lady is off on a retreat? I must find something to do or I will just vegetate. Sunday starts the Summer Youth League at 6 pm. Maybe for this league our team will gel and we can show them our talents.

We might head for Indiana for the Memorial Day Weekend. Not sure since we are still planning this one.

Still trying to figure out a Birthday present for Lady. Hmmm, good or gag?

Work is still the same but a bit slower since the Transmitter moves are mostly done. Cheng is even considering taking some time off. Oh boy, I get to be king for a while. I will have to practice saying “No.”

The cruise is getting closer. I, Lady, #2, Peanut and Princess are all going along with our best friends and their son, and another friend from South Carolina. This should prove to be an interesting crowd. It should provide lots of laughs and pics. Now just to pay for it.

Shreck III comes out this weekend. Do I dare get Lew and go to it?

+ Neptune + heads for Ft Campbell KY to start his new career. I wish him luck and a quick rise to the top. I love to see friends succeed and have new adventures even if they are in the Army.

Little over a month until cutiebug comes to visit Wild Mom in Florida. She has left London to sample the wild and crazy beaches of Florida.

Daily Growl

Looks like it is raining … finally, just what I want is for my grass to grow faster. Life is not fair. I hope that this weekend I will be able to do some yard work and get rid of the mess.

The cruise is on! Our cancellation for the Mediterranean cruise came through. Can you spell P A R T Y? Of course, the kids will be there so we will subdue it some. I will miss flying panties and bras I have collected from the ships mast.

Wild Mom is cruising in the Pacific and having fun. I hope she brings back some good pictures and if they are around the pool, then that much better.

Lady is getting ready to head for a Sandy Cove retreat for the Weekend. She must be grinning, as I will have to deal with “kids” this weekend. Next week someone gets another year older. I wonder what that feels like. It is tough being forever young.

Peanut is working and loves it or at least that is what she tells me. We went car looking and she has settled on a Hyundai Sonata. Now comes the tough part, getting the down payment and all the paper work.

Princess has been sick so far this week. However, Friday (station night) is approaching and I would expect a rapid healing in the next 36 hours. Amazing how we have not seen hide or hair of Davis. Booger is being himself. Sometimes he pushes the limits of human tolerance.