Taxes ... Whether Democrat or a Republican you will find these statistics enlightening and amazing.
Taxes under Clinton 1999 :::: Taxes under Bush 2008
Single making 30K - tax $8,400 :::: tax $4,500
Single making 50K - tax $14,000 :::: tax $12,500
Single making 75K - tax $23,250 :::: tax $18,750
Married making 60K - tax $16,800 :::: tax $9,000
Married making 75K - tax $21,000 :::: tax $18,750
Married making 125K - tax $38,750 :::: tax $31,250
It is amazing how many people that fall into the categories above think Bush is screwing them and Bill Clinton was the greatest President ever. If Obama or Hillary are elected, they both say they will repeal the Bush tax cuts and a good portion of the people that fall into the categories above can't wait for it to happen. This is like the movie "The Sting" with Paul Newman; you scam somebody out of some money and they don't even know what happened.
Source: www.taxfoundation.org/publications/show/151.html
Friday, February 22, 2008
Thanks Mom!!!
After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie.
She said, "I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you."
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my Mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie. "What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you," I responded "just the two of us." She thought about it for a moment, and then said, "I would like that very much." That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's. "I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed," she said, as she got into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our meeting." We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.
After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Half way through the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mother sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips.
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small," she said. "Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor," I responded. During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation nothing extraordinary but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you." I agreed.
"How was your dinner date?" asked my wife when I got home. "Very nice, much more so than I could have imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her. Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place Mother and I had dined. An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: "I love you." and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than our family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off until 'some other time.'
"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle".
She said, "I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you."
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my Mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie. "What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you," I responded "just the two of us." She thought about it for a moment, and then said, "I would like that very much." That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's. "I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed," she said, as she got into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our meeting." We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.
After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Half way through the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mother sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips.
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small," she said. "Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor," I responded. During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation nothing extraordinary but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you." I agreed.
"How was your dinner date?" asked my wife when I got home. "Very nice, much more so than I could have imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her. Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place Mother and I had dined. An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: "I love you." and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than our family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off until 'some other time.'
- Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back to normal after you've had a baby ... that somebody doesn't know that once you're a mother,"normal" is history.
- Somebody said you can't love the second child as much as you love the first ... that somebody doesn't have two or more children.
- Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother is labor and delivery ... that somebody never watched her "baby" get on the bus for the first day of kindergarten ... or on a plane headed for military "boot camp."
- Somebody said a Mother can stop worrying after her child gets married ... well that somebody doesn't know that marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a Mother's heartstrings.
- Somebody said a Mother's job is done when her last child leaves home ... that somebody never had grandchildren.
- Somebody said your Mother knows you love her, so you don't need to tell her ... that somebody isn't a Mother.
"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle".
Thursday, February 21, 2008
One way to Play with a Balloon -- Kick it
Not much to report. The house is quiet and we are enjoying it. The tree Service showed up this morning to trim some trees and clear out the brush from the back of the property. Just a mild surprise because they were to call first and schedule this. Oh well. Repainting the spare bedroom is going well. I wonder if there is a color I can use that will make people not want to sleep in there? lady tried to give me the cold she had but it bounced off for the most part. It did slow me down but never ground me to a halt like it did her. I am ready for another weekend at Cheat River. The quiet and peacefulness really appeals to me right now.
Work is the same. Some people bust their butt and others don't even show up but get paid. The corporate weenies are up to the same game ... showing us how much they don't know. They sent us a new laptop (all setup with software) this also included a password cracking CD ... because none of them can remember the password for the Administrator or the user. And they are the experts? We have to install their computer rack instead of using ours ... why? ... because they have a support and maintenance agreement for the METAL RACK. How much support does a metal box need! Did they use Chinese steel that rusts in 3 months? Some people just have to spend money and they will swallow any story if it has a good dollar value attached to it. These are the same nuts that will pay $950 for a Dell computer that we can buy for $400. Why? They get a corporate discount that we don't get from our vendor. These are the same goons that buy an Internet streaming company then outsource their internet streaming to another vendor. They act like all the money is theirs to spend but they forget they are only overhead ... the real money is earned out in the field. I guess I should stop now because you are probably rolling on the floor laughing and I wouldn't want to hurt your sides.
Wild Mom should be here in 21 days to start her most excellent adventure to New Mexico.
#1 is doing fine in snowy Colorado. We had a very good talk the other night. Maybe he will take another vacation soon and visit the warmth of Virginia.
#2 has fallen into that rut of work - work - work. Just think only 44 more years to go.
Can't wait for Punk and Lil Princess to show up. She is growing so much it seem that each time she comes over she is someone else. Besides ... it is fun to resist her charms.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Let Them Roll
Back to the grind after a quiet weekend. The highlight was the Sweet Heart Dinner at church on Saturday night. It was nice and more than enough food. Bowling was mixed as the kids went 3-1 and the night crew lost. That should drop us back to 4th again after a brief stay at #2. I saw a couple of great movies this weekend on TV (Man of the Year, Powder, We are Soldiers). But I still need to go and see Cloverfield at the cinema. Guess I will have to go alone.
Albuquerque is now booked and all that is left is to wait these last 4 weeks. The cruise is booked so the dreaming can begin.
Wild Mom is finishing her visit with Gung Ho J. It is off to Camp Geiger and the next phase of her training. Some birdie told me that her brother is heading for the Navy ... Good judgment, poor choice. We do wish him the best of luck.
#1 is dealing with the snow and cold, such is life in Cold Country. Perhaps he will be more open to a visit to the warm state of Virginia soon.
#2 continues to work and get ready for work the rest of the time. The shorter drive to the store is nice since his car uses less gas because of the shorter drive. It is fun watching him when he leaves trash laying around after he is done using it. No one to blame ... it is easy to find the culprit when it involves pizza pockets or soda's.
Lil Princess, what can you say? She is trying her best to wrap me around her finger but not having that much luck. She almost made it up to a sitting position Saturday and on Sunday managed to crawl a few steps. Nothing is safe once she gets the hang of things.
Punk was his usual self. It is amazing how good he is getting with the Leapster. One amusing thought is he also has found some of those games that cheat. Just like #1 did. It is also fun watching him watch popcorn in the microwave. I don't know who is popping more ... him or the corn.
##########
It is fun seeing the Redskins continue their losing ways as they choose a new head coach.
Baseball is just a short time away. Once again the Nationals will attempt to have a winning season. Funny thing is they will have a new stadium but there will be no where to park unless you pawn your first born to pay for it.
Elections? I am still waiting for 2 good candidates to show up. It seems this year will be the "pick of the lesser evil." Huckabee is now starting to whine as he calls foul at every chance he gets. Please lose graciously ... and quit using the poor Christian card.
Albuquerque is now booked and all that is left is to wait these last 4 weeks. The cruise is booked so the dreaming can begin.
Wild Mom is finishing her visit with Gung Ho J. It is off to Camp Geiger and the next phase of her training. Some birdie told me that her brother is heading for the Navy ... Good judgment, poor choice. We do wish him the best of luck.
#1 is dealing with the snow and cold, such is life in Cold Country. Perhaps he will be more open to a visit to the warm state of Virginia soon.
#2 continues to work and get ready for work the rest of the time. The shorter drive to the store is nice since his car uses less gas because of the shorter drive. It is fun watching him when he leaves trash laying around after he is done using it. No one to blame ... it is easy to find the culprit when it involves pizza pockets or soda's.
Lil Princess, what can you say? She is trying her best to wrap me around her finger but not having that much luck. She almost made it up to a sitting position Saturday and on Sunday managed to crawl a few steps. Nothing is safe once she gets the hang of things.
Punk was his usual self. It is amazing how good he is getting with the Leapster. One amusing thought is he also has found some of those games that cheat. Just like #1 did. It is also fun watching him watch popcorn in the microwave. I don't know who is popping more ... him or the corn.
##########
It is fun seeing the Redskins continue their losing ways as they choose a new head coach.
Baseball is just a short time away. Once again the Nationals will attempt to have a winning season. Funny thing is they will have a new stadium but there will be no where to park unless you pawn your first born to pay for it.
Elections? I am still waiting for 2 good candidates to show up. It seems this year will be the "pick of the lesser evil." Huckabee is now starting to whine as he calls foul at every chance he gets. Please lose graciously ... and quit using the poor Christian card.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Does Your Chewing Gum Lose it's Flavor on the Bed Post Overnight?
Guess I need to go and find a giant sponge to absorb all the water in my front yard. All the rain over the last few weeks has turned the front yard into a mud hole. Speaking of mud hole, yesterday Lew was swinging on a swing at the playground and fell off ... planting his face squarely into the mud. Needless to say but he was a hoot to look at ... brown face and all. Bowling went very well. The kids went 4-0 and the night league went 7-0 against the 4th place team, we are third. Next week will be a challenge because it is position round and we will possibly be going against the 1st place team. Who would believe and to top that, Lady did very well. The weekend was also fun because Lil Princess is showing us her personality and reacting to us. I think I played on the floor with her almost all evening. Of course my knees barked at me later. Her laugh will melt your heart and how can you say no? I think I am in trouble when she gets older.
Well it now looks like 23 January 2009, on the Norwegian Pearl to the Southern Caribbean for 9 days. If you want to go, let me know and I will give you the number to our travel agent who is putting this together for us. I had no votes for Orlando so I guess that was a bad idea or no one was interested. Shoot, this weekend, several gallons of paint showed up at the house. I guess I know what comes next ... sanding.
Work is pretty much the same. Many projects and even more on the horizon. At this point I am getting beyond letting it matter any more. Something runs for several years flawlessly, and then Corporate mandates a change and then when it breaks, it is our fault and then they ask us to change it back to make it work right. Of course, making it work when it is changed back is their achievement and brainstorm. All we are are some dumb engineers that don't know better.
I know, I will retire and let all the kids support me. :)
Looks like the Pats used a page from the Redskins playbook and LOST.
Well it now looks like 23 January 2009, on the Norwegian Pearl to the Southern Caribbean for 9 days. If you want to go, let me know and I will give you the number to our travel agent who is putting this together for us. I had no votes for Orlando so I guess that was a bad idea or no one was interested. Shoot, this weekend, several gallons of paint showed up at the house. I guess I know what comes next ... sanding.
Work is pretty much the same. Many projects and even more on the horizon. At this point I am getting beyond letting it matter any more. Something runs for several years flawlessly, and then Corporate mandates a change and then when it breaks, it is our fault and then they ask us to change it back to make it work right. Of course, making it work when it is changed back is their achievement and brainstorm. All we are are some dumb engineers that don't know better.
I know, I will retire and let all the kids support me. :)
Looks like the Pats used a page from the Redskins playbook and LOST.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Rested!
Well after a relaxing weekend it is back to work. Jennifer's graduation was great. Something about a woman in uniform ... we wish her the best as she goes to School of Infantry at Camp Geiger NC. We left Hilton Head and managed to leisurely travel up to Myrtle Beach where we spent the night in a Hotel next to the ocean in Downtown Myrtle Beach. We ate at a great restaurant, "Sea Captains House" and the seafood was great. Saturday Morning we headed north along the coast and it took all day to get to Norfolk Va. We managed to get home about 9:30 Saturday Night. Sunday was the usual. Breakfast with Lynne and Carl at Yorkshire, Church and then Bowling. The Youth team did well and the Adult team at night did great going 7-0 and keeping us solidly in 4Th place. Lady and I were pretty much tied after two games but ... you use your imagination.
Plans:
Wild Mom is still on the road and our short visit in Hilton head was nice.
#1 is enjoying the snow and more is on the way.
#2 enjoys the new job but he is ready for a day off. It seems full time does get you tired. Amazing what an extra 20 hours a week does.
No updates from Lew or Lil Princess as we were gone this weekend on the mini-vacation.
Plans:
- Albuquerque NM is being planning and booked this week. Looks like March 18-25 for the tournament and train ride.
- Cruise planned for early January 2009. Looks like Southern Caribbean is the main focus.
- I wonder how many votes I could get for Disney World in Orlando in the Summer?
Wild Mom is still on the road and our short visit in Hilton head was nice.
#1 is enjoying the snow and more is on the way.
#2 enjoys the new job but he is ready for a day off. It seems full time does get you tired. Amazing what an extra 20 hours a week does.
No updates from Lew or Lil Princess as we were gone this weekend on the mini-vacation.
Monday, January 21, 2008
The Age of LAB Starts
Snow - Snow - Snow ... then it was cold. we are relaxing and enjoying the warmth of staying inside while it freezes outside. We managed to get to El Agave on Saturday for the first time in weeks. Of course there was a group of us ... 13 total. We tried a new restaurant Friday Night and it was good. So I guess now we have another place to choose from on Friday's.
Lew and Lil Princess kept us entertained and very active while they stayed with us. Now I know why God made us to have children while we were young ... I am too old to be that active.
Wild Mom is getting ready to head for Hilton Head SC and then too Nashville. We are planning to meet her there if all goes well and see Jennifer graduate from Marine Boot Camp. Not sure about the Nashville part though. I need to make a trip down to Belvoir to get some car registrations squared away and get my new base passes.
#2 has a new job making more money and getting more hours. That will be a nice change. I was amused at his comment "It only took 6 days to get this job!" Hmmm, amazing what happens when you actively look for a job.
I am starting to plan the Great Train excursion to Albuquerque NM in March. Actually the train ride isn't that expensive ($317 round trip). We are also starting to look at the Exotic Southern Caribbean as our next cruise destination this year.
Bowling was OK. The Youth League team went 4-0 and the night league was 4-3.
Many changes to our life as Princess has gone off to be the Queen of her own Realm and Starr gets her own Galaxy to revolve around her. The quiet around the house will take some getting use too. Lady is already writing done the honey-do's. Lil Bit is already losing weight as his normal source of extra treats has left. No rest for the weary.
Lew and Lil Princess kept us entertained and very active while they stayed with us. Now I know why God made us to have children while we were young ... I am too old to be that active.
Wild Mom is getting ready to head for Hilton Head SC and then too Nashville. We are planning to meet her there if all goes well and see Jennifer graduate from Marine Boot Camp. Not sure about the Nashville part though. I need to make a trip down to Belvoir to get some car registrations squared away and get my new base passes.
#2 has a new job making more money and getting more hours. That will be a nice change. I was amused at his comment "It only took 6 days to get this job!" Hmmm, amazing what happens when you actively look for a job.
I am starting to plan the Great Train excursion to Albuquerque NM in March. Actually the train ride isn't that expensive ($317 round trip). We are also starting to look at the Exotic Southern Caribbean as our next cruise destination this year.
Bowling was OK. The Youth League team went 4-0 and the night league was 4-3.
Many changes to our life as Princess has gone off to be the Queen of her own Realm and Starr gets her own Galaxy to revolve around her. The quiet around the house will take some getting use too. Lady is already writing done the honey-do's. Lil Bit is already losing weight as his normal source of extra treats has left. No rest for the weary.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Changes - Changes - Changes
Back to work ... Hi Ho. Bowling this week was fun. I finally snapped out of my slump and rolled like I felt I could and should roll. I averaged 217 for a 652 series. The team won 5-2 and continued our slow move to the top. The Youth league started and we managed to split (2-2) our games. This season will be interesting since the young lady I have been coaching has decided to take this season off.
Lew and Lil Princess were over for the weekend and though it was tiring it was a lot of fun. Lil Princess is slowly showing us her personality and reacting to us. Even managed to get her to buzz her lips some.
Saturday was a quiet night as we ordered pizza and just sat at home watching movies. #2 and Star were there also.
Friday night was quiet too as we had dinner with #2. We haven't done that in a long time and it was nice. #2 finally got Gamestop to admit they were letting him go (just Christmas help). So he is now looking again and I think this time he will do a lot better in his search.
Any volunteers to do my taxes ... I broke down and started that process.
Lew and Lil Princess were over for the weekend and though it was tiring it was a lot of fun. Lil Princess is slowly showing us her personality and reacting to us. Even managed to get her to buzz her lips some.
Saturday was a quiet night as we ordered pizza and just sat at home watching movies. #2 and Star were there also.
Friday night was quiet too as we had dinner with #2. We haven't done that in a long time and it was nice. #2 finally got Gamestop to admit they were letting him go (just Christmas help). So he is now looking again and I think this time he will do a lot better in his search.
Any volunteers to do my taxes ... I broke down and started that process.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Hoorah
Well, another weekend is here. I just want to rest some. Whatever happened to those lazy times where you just vegetated and life left you alone? It started nice last night with dinner, then coffee and cookies at our good friends house. Sunday will prove hectic though as the Youth Bowling restarts and that window of opportunity for catnaps closes.
Wild Mom is anxiously awaiting her trip to South Carolina for my niece's graduation from Marine Corp boot camp. She did succeed though her judgement of being there is in question. We wish her all the luck as she starts her career.
Gee, someone is 26. I did manage to get #1 an application for AARP. It took some doing but he is now OLD. He should have the cookie care package by now. I like how Lady sent soft cookies for him to gum on.
Still working but they don't give many hours. A $17 paycheck for two weeks doesn't cut much mustard. Perhaps a change in work location is needed.
Sure miss the wee ones. Perhaps Peanut should hurry and have her baby so we can have a bigger pool to chose from. Deal?
Wild Mom is anxiously awaiting her trip to South Carolina for my niece's graduation from Marine Corp boot camp. She did succeed though her judgement of being there is in question. We wish her all the luck as she starts her career.
Gee, someone is 26. I did manage to get #1 an application for AARP. It took some doing but he is now OLD. He should have the cookie care package by now. I like how Lady sent soft cookies for him to gum on.
Still working but they don't give many hours. A $17 paycheck for two weeks doesn't cut much mustard. Perhaps a change in work location is needed.
Sure miss the wee ones. Perhaps Peanut should hurry and have her baby so we can have a bigger pool to chose from. Deal?
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
A Few Chuckles
Smile ... I friend sent me a fw chuckles ...
- Now that food has replaced sex in my life, I can't even get into my own pants.
- Marriage changes passion. Suddenly you're in bed with a relative.
- I saw a woman wearing a sweat shirt with 'Guess' on it. So I said 'Implants?' She hit me.
- How come we choose from just two people to run for President and over fifty for Miss America ?
- I signed up for an exercise class and was told to wear loose-fitting clothing. If I HAD any loose-fitting clothing, I wouldn't have signed up in the first place!
- When I was young we used to go 'skinny dipping,' now I just go 'chunky dunking.'
- Don't argue with an idiot; people watching may not be able to tell the difference.
- Wouldn't it be nice if whenever we messed up our life we could simply press 'Ctrl-Alt-Delete' and start all over?
- Why is it that our children can't read a Bible in school, but they can in prison?
- Wouldn't you know it ... Brain cells come and brain cells go, but FAT cells live forever.
- Why do I have to swear on the Bible in court when the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed outside?
- Bumper sticker of the year: "If you can read this, thank a teacher and, since it's in English, thank a soldier."
- And remember: life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Moving On
It is amazing that the days in 2008 are flying along. I hadn't realized that my last post was a week ago. I must have been having fun for the time to fly so fast. Bowling the last two weeks has been fun. We went 5-2 against the first place team and 7-0 against the second place team. Personally, my scores have been closer to what I am capable of so maybe the slump is gone and I can get ready for nationals in March. Next week the Youth leagues start so I will get some extra practice besides the fun of watching and helping some kids.
Lady and I took Lew and Lil Princess to see the "Festival of Lights" before they closed for the year on Sunday. It is amazing how many oohs and ahhs can come out of such a small mouth. The display was nice, pricey, but to see the kids faces was worth it.
Looks like we will go to South Carolina so see my niece graduate from Marine Boot Camp on January 25. Should be a nice quiet drive down and back.
Looks like we will skip the June - August time frame for a cruise and plan for one around late December 2008 or early January 2009. The consensus has been we want to do a Southern Caribbean or Eastern Caribbean at the least. Seems the Rummies are over-ruling the Tequila-ites.
The choir director at our church announced he had taken another job elsewhere and this Sunday was his last day there. That will throw the choir in to a bit a confusion as we will have to wait for someone else to be hired. last time that took several months. They don't pay a lot and the work includes two different services on Sunday Morning. Oh Well.
When the Redskins won by 21 over Dallas, they called it "divine intervention" and a sign that the stars were behind the Redskins. Now that they lost by 21 to Seattle ... what do you call that? It seems they are silent now. Well, since they are silent ... I will answer ... LOSER.
Lady and I took Lew and Lil Princess to see the "Festival of Lights" before they closed for the year on Sunday. It is amazing how many oohs and ahhs can come out of such a small mouth. The display was nice, pricey, but to see the kids faces was worth it.
Looks like we will go to South Carolina so see my niece graduate from Marine Boot Camp on January 25. Should be a nice quiet drive down and back.
Looks like we will skip the June - August time frame for a cruise and plan for one around late December 2008 or early January 2009. The consensus has been we want to do a Southern Caribbean or Eastern Caribbean at the least. Seems the Rummies are over-ruling the Tequila-ites.
The choir director at our church announced he had taken another job elsewhere and this Sunday was his last day there. That will throw the choir in to a bit a confusion as we will have to wait for someone else to be hired. last time that took several months. They don't pay a lot and the work includes two different services on Sunday Morning. Oh Well.
When the Redskins won by 21 over Dallas, they called it "divine intervention" and a sign that the stars were behind the Redskins. Now that they lost by 21 to Seattle ... what do you call that? It seems they are silent now. Well, since they are silent ... I will answer ... LOSER.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year - 2008
Happy New Years - 2008. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves and had a safe celebration. It was quiet for me ... only Lady and I were at home. We celebrated and saw a great movie ... "Man in the Moon." It sure brought back some memories. The year 2008 should be a good one but, if it doesn't go so well, I still have some great friends and that will make it a great year.
Christmas was a great time with everyone getting most of what they wanted. If they didn't, then perhaps they didn't need it or beg enough for it. I even managed to have three of the kids at the Christmas Eve candlelight service ... that in itself was a great thing.
Wild Mom had a quiet celebration herself as she rests up for her January trip. But her eye is really on the March trip.
Lady is resting today knowing tomorrow she will have to deal with the end of the year stuff. "The Tax man calls." We went to Olive Garden on our anniversary (#32) and had a great dinner with our friends.
#1 enjoyed a snowy time. We are proud of him as he makes it on his own in Colorado. Maybe his Jaguars will survive the first round of the Playoffs but then again he could become a Bronco's fan.
#2 celebrated but returned home for a quiet night. His main New Year's resolution is to clean his room and keep it that way for a week.
Star partied in DC but work beckons her back tomorrow. She even managed to wear a dress ... perhaps the first surprise of the New Year.
Work has been quiet mainly because most people have been gone but I am afraid that all will change tomorrow when everyone returns. Maybe Santa brought most of them some "computer common sense." Not!
Christmas was a great time with everyone getting most of what they wanted. If they didn't, then perhaps they didn't need it or beg enough for it. I even managed to have three of the kids at the Christmas Eve candlelight service ... that in itself was a great thing.
Wild Mom had a quiet celebration herself as she rests up for her January trip. But her eye is really on the March trip.
Lady is resting today knowing tomorrow she will have to deal with the end of the year stuff. "The Tax man calls." We went to Olive Garden on our anniversary (#32) and had a great dinner with our friends.
#1 enjoyed a snowy time. We are proud of him as he makes it on his own in Colorado. Maybe his Jaguars will survive the first round of the Playoffs but then again he could become a Bronco's fan.
#2 celebrated but returned home for a quiet night. His main New Year's resolution is to clean his room and keep it that way for a week.
Star partied in DC but work beckons her back tomorrow. She even managed to wear a dress ... perhaps the first surprise of the New Year.
Work has been quiet mainly because most people have been gone but I am afraid that all will change tomorrow when everyone returns. Maybe Santa brought most of them some "computer common sense." Not!
Friday, December 28, 2007
Candy Cane Delight
Ho, Ho, Ho. Christmas has come and gone. I hope every one had a great time and the season was one full of good memories. We had a great time. Christmas day was a house full of people. The only thing I could think of that would have been better is to do this every day of the year. The kids had no problem opening the gifts and seemed to really enjoy what they recieved. Of course, more would have been better but then again more would have been harder to handle. Naturally, the cameras were working overtime. Red spots anyone?
Now it is time to reflect back on the year 2007 and find a way to make 2008 better. So some of the next few posts will reflect and remember the great times. The yucky old New Year's Resolution are due very soon. It is a good thing we are not graded on our faithfulness in keeping the resolutions, I would have failed miserably.
To top of these few days, Lady and I celebrated our 32nd anniversary. The dinner and wine tasted really good at The Olive Garden. Also having several of our closest friends dine with us made the night special. Thank You to those special friends.
The only thing left to make this season special is to CRUISE!
Now it is time to reflect back on the year 2007 and find a way to make 2008 better. So some of the next few posts will reflect and remember the great times. The yucky old New Year's Resolution are due very soon. It is a good thing we are not graded on our faithfulness in keeping the resolutions, I would have failed miserably.
To top of these few days, Lady and I celebrated our 32nd anniversary. The dinner and wine tasted really good at The Olive Garden. Also having several of our closest friends dine with us made the night special. Thank You to those special friends.
The only thing left to make this season special is to CRUISE!
Friday, December 21, 2007
Baa Humbug II
I find it interesting that the top AP news Story was about Juicer Bonds. Dog-Lover Vick was second and Peeper Bellichick was 3rd. The top non-criminal story was about Florida's Two national Titles and all they could manage is a fourth spot. Isn't that sad that the best story we could muster was about illegal activities by some loser sports stars. I guess the moral is "if you want fame, do it the wrong way."
Well, the end of the week is upon us. Time to find some time to relax in between all the shopping and parties. I sure hope time can be found for some real Mexican food on Saturday afternoon.
Work was the same with new instances of the "Fix Stupid" complex shining brightly. I love how they argue with me like I don't have a clue about what I am talking about. I did manage to hit the jackpot when one office did some cleaning. I managed to get a full licensed version of MS Office 2003, ACT 2005, MS Office 2003 SBE and a 4-port CISCO USB Hub with print server still in the shrink wrap that it came to them in, probably about $750 in value. And they think I am the dumb one!
Looks like the Spears Family is desperate for attention so they allowed the 16 year old to get pregnant and now are bragging about it. What part of this whole affair is wrong or are we too far along in the degradation of our morals. Arrest the 19 year old for statutory rape and then get the parents for child endangerment ... their track record of child rearing is a bit messed up after seeing the lives of these two girls. Oh, that is right .. they are a product of their environment and therefore not responsible for their actions.
Want Hanna Montana tickets? Contact the DC Mayor ... if he hasn't already gave them all away to his family and political donors, he might give you one.
Don't bail out the credit companies for speculating and making bad loan choices ... help the people that were taken. The credit companies are whining that they are losing massive amounts of money because people can't pay. Well, excuse me ... but drop the interest rate from 30% back to 12% ... then they might survive and pay it back. If you really want to help ... drop the interest rate and increase the minimum amount to be paid each month. Give us an opportunity to pay it back. Maybe we need Federal Regulation of all consumer loans. Make the maximum interest rate 12% and the minimum due of 7.5% per month. Also make it so that anyone with a credit score <650 can not get any more credit card offers. It is funny when someone in credit counselling for bad credit gets a letter ... "Due to your outstanding credit, we can off you a new Platinum Card with a great low rate." BS!
Oh well, time to commute home and enjoy the ride as at least 12 "A" types cut me off.
Well, the end of the week is upon us. Time to find some time to relax in between all the shopping and parties. I sure hope time can be found for some real Mexican food on Saturday afternoon.
Work was the same with new instances of the "Fix Stupid" complex shining brightly. I love how they argue with me like I don't have a clue about what I am talking about. I did manage to hit the jackpot when one office did some cleaning. I managed to get a full licensed version of MS Office 2003, ACT 2005, MS Office 2003 SBE and a 4-port CISCO USB Hub with print server still in the shrink wrap that it came to them in, probably about $750 in value. And they think I am the dumb one!
Looks like the Spears Family is desperate for attention so they allowed the 16 year old to get pregnant and now are bragging about it. What part of this whole affair is wrong or are we too far along in the degradation of our morals. Arrest the 19 year old for statutory rape and then get the parents for child endangerment ... their track record of child rearing is a bit messed up after seeing the lives of these two girls. Oh, that is right .. they are a product of their environment and therefore not responsible for their actions.
Want Hanna Montana tickets? Contact the DC Mayor ... if he hasn't already gave them all away to his family and political donors, he might give you one.
Don't bail out the credit companies for speculating and making bad loan choices ... help the people that were taken. The credit companies are whining that they are losing massive amounts of money because people can't pay. Well, excuse me ... but drop the interest rate from 30% back to 12% ... then they might survive and pay it back. If you really want to help ... drop the interest rate and increase the minimum amount to be paid each month. Give us an opportunity to pay it back. Maybe we need Federal Regulation of all consumer loans. Make the maximum interest rate 12% and the minimum due of 7.5% per month. Also make it so that anyone with a credit score <650 can not get any more credit card offers. It is funny when someone in credit counselling for bad credit gets a letter ... "Due to your outstanding credit, we can off you a new Platinum Card with a great low rate." BS!
Oh well, time to commute home and enjoy the ride as at least 12 "A" types cut me off.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Oh, Well ... Time will tell
The week is quickly slipping by as Christmas is just around the corner. Things are fairly quiet at work this week since a lot of people are gone. The weekend proves to be busy once again starting with a Holiday Party on Friday Night. I have been sitting around trying to figure out what gifts to give and who deserves one. Hmmm, I wonder what is on the Movies this weekend ... that will help me decide. TV will start getting bad as all the "Best of 2007" shows get started. I would even settle on playing a game on X-Box but it seems we have no games ... Hmmm.
11,000 Democratic earmarks ... no wonder the budget will never get balanced. It looks like they are just like the Republicans ... despite their claim to fix things if we voted them into office. Anyone feel a bit cheated? It seems a politician is the same regardless of their tie, lapel pin, or banner they stand under. I think it is time for a third party to emerge ... let the right person run and I would vote for them.
Steroids ... give the Players Association some time and they will sweep it under the carpet. To fix the problem means less money in the dues bucket. Start the Olympic type testing program ... then let Clemens and Bonds show us their innocence. A few examples would go along way to discouraging this culture of cheating is OK if you make enough money. Gee, we are harder on a cork batter than a drug addict. Hang the gambler but look away from the cheater looking for an edge.
11,000 Democratic earmarks ... no wonder the budget will never get balanced. It looks like they are just like the Republicans ... despite their claim to fix things if we voted them into office. Anyone feel a bit cheated? It seems a politician is the same regardless of their tie, lapel pin, or banner they stand under. I think it is time for a third party to emerge ... let the right person run and I would vote for them.
Steroids ... give the Players Association some time and they will sweep it under the carpet. To fix the problem means less money in the dues bucket. Start the Olympic type testing program ... then let Clemens and Bonds show us their innocence. A few examples would go along way to discouraging this culture of cheating is OK if you make enough money. Gee, we are harder on a cork batter than a drug addict. Hang the gambler but look away from the cheater looking for an edge.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Brrrr .... It is Hot!
Another weekend sneaks by and Christmas quickly approaches. I guess I need to start shopping, rather, I should start planning what day I will shop on. This weekend we had the awards day for the Youth league. At least we didn't finish in last though the bottom was closer than the top. In four weeks we will start a new season again and hopefully the outcome will be much better. I know I can't do any worse. Sunday was the Christmas program at our church. It was nice but a lot of work for so short a time. maybe we need to do an encore show? I would like to get on my soap box about family at this time of the year but I think it would fall largely on deaf ears. That is a shame since it is a time that is forever lost and the aches the lost causes won't show up until someone close is gone forever. Saturday Night was spent at Lady's Christmas Party put on by her employer. It was a lot of fun and the food was plentiful and good.
The supposed bad weather missed us by a country mile. It would be nice to have some snow to go with this blowing cold wind. The only other option is to cruise to the Caribean where it is 80+ but finding people to go is hard.
Work is work and resists change.
The Batlimore Ravens are enjoying their loss to Miami. I was told they were having a giant "L" tatooed into their forehead.
The supposed bad weather missed us by a country mile. It would be nice to have some snow to go with this blowing cold wind. The only other option is to cruise to the Caribean where it is 80+ but finding people to go is hard.
Work is work and resists change.
The Batlimore Ravens are enjoying their loss to Miami. I was told they were having a giant "L" tatooed into their forehead.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Getting back into the Habit.
Well, I survived the Monday after the vacation. It was tough but I managed not t get run over by "stupid." Nothing changed at the workplace but I guess I should have been realistic and not expected something like that. I still have my ear out for other opportunities to use my skills, but I am being selective and definitely pushing for better compensation for my time. No freebies anymore ... you want it ... you pay for it.
This grey and rainy weather is for the ducks and they have already headed south. Either get cold or warm up.
I am tired of hearing about Michael Vick ... please find something more news worthy. He is busted and has to pay the price, end of discussion.
Now starts the onslaught of Christmas Parties and other Activities. By the end of the month I will eagerly await a day off on the weekend. It could be January before I get back to El Agave for some good Mexican Food. Now that is a travesty.
The next planned road trip is March 2008 to Albuquerque NM. Then another cruise may follow in July 2008. That depends on where NCL travels too out of the Charleston SC Port. I wonder if Punk and Lil Princess want to go?
This grey and rainy weather is for the ducks and they have already headed south. Either get cold or warm up.
I am tired of hearing about Michael Vick ... please find something more news worthy. He is busted and has to pay the price, end of discussion.
Now starts the onslaught of Christmas Parties and other Activities. By the end of the month I will eagerly await a day off on the weekend. It could be January before I get back to El Agave for some good Mexican Food. Now that is a travesty.
The next planned road trip is March 2008 to Albuquerque NM. Then another cruise may follow in July 2008. That depends on where NCL travels too out of the Charleston SC Port. I wonder if Punk and Lil Princess want to go?
Sunday, December 09, 2007
We Are Back!!
All is well for the Travellers. Everyone made it safe and sound and even managed to have a lot of fun. I think everyone wants to go again. I will try in the next couple of days give a better account of the week but right now I just wanted to let everyone know we are back and safe.
Bowling was not quite so fun today. The youth team finished in the middle of the pack. The Sunday Night team managed to participate.
As usual I had a lot of fun. Sometimes keeping track of 10 people got weary but we all managed to do what we wanted. Dressing up was fun as we all managed to don our finest threads and act civilly for an evening. The Chocolate madness was a smashing hit as our sugar level went through the ceiling.
Wild Mom lived up to her name. At one point I wondered if the Pina Colada supply would run out and she would then change to the dreaded "Long Island Ice Tea's". We enjoyed having her there and hope to do it again.
Lady looked great in the swimsuit competition. Yes, I am a bit biased but what the heck. Her highlight was the Butterfly Conservatory on Key West. Oh, the home-made Key Lime pie was a winner.
#2 managed not to get thrown off the ship. Not withstanding the weed offers and the $2 breast flashes in Cozumel. I think if he had more pesos he would have been tempted more. Cuban cigars are OK but not his cup of tea. He says "hot stone massages are better than sex," as if he knows! He was even successful in the Casino and managed to leave a winner.
Princess managed to break a minimum of hearts. I spent most nights guarding the door. The deck outside our room sounded like a Chicago back alley with the cats howling. Her highlight was her beach horse-back ride, first Marguerita, first hot stone massage (minus clothes). Cingular stock dived $10.00 a share from her non-use of the phone last week. However, today it jumped $15.00 a share in after-market trading.
Kritty managed to turn a few heads as several crew members hit upon her. We were really proud she fought the effort to marry one and return home to America. Ask her about the Ghosts!
Bowling was not quite so fun today. The youth team finished in the middle of the pack. The Sunday Night team managed to participate.
As usual I had a lot of fun. Sometimes keeping track of 10 people got weary but we all managed to do what we wanted. Dressing up was fun as we all managed to don our finest threads and act civilly for an evening. The Chocolate madness was a smashing hit as our sugar level went through the ceiling.
Wild Mom lived up to her name. At one point I wondered if the Pina Colada supply would run out and she would then change to the dreaded "Long Island Ice Tea's". We enjoyed having her there and hope to do it again.
Lady looked great in the swimsuit competition. Yes, I am a bit biased but what the heck. Her highlight was the Butterfly Conservatory on Key West. Oh, the home-made Key Lime pie was a winner.
#2 managed not to get thrown off the ship. Not withstanding the weed offers and the $2 breast flashes in Cozumel. I think if he had more pesos he would have been tempted more. Cuban cigars are OK but not his cup of tea. He says "hot stone massages are better than sex," as if he knows! He was even successful in the Casino and managed to leave a winner.
Princess managed to break a minimum of hearts. I spent most nights guarding the door. The deck outside our room sounded like a Chicago back alley with the cats howling. Her highlight was her beach horse-back ride, first Marguerita, first hot stone massage (minus clothes). Cingular stock dived $10.00 a share from her non-use of the phone last week. However, today it jumped $15.00 a share in after-market trading.
Kritty managed to turn a few heads as several crew members hit upon her. We were really proud she fought the effort to marry one and return home to America. Ask her about the Ghosts!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Monday, November 19, 2007
Blinking Eyes
"Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow; Don't walk behind me, I may not lead; Walk beside me, and just be my friend."
~Albert Camus
~Albert Camus
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