Not What You Expect?

"Mystique is Pregnant" featuring Jerry O'Connell and Rebecca Romijn by Jerry Minor

Eat The Head!

These commercials with Wade and Barkley are so insanely funny! I am glad they don't want to eat the head tho.

Kitty Entertainment

Ever have a day when nothing seems to work and you just wanna hit your head or hit a room mate? All it took was this video to make me feel a bit better and chuckle. But I am telling my cats--you are not getting one of these. The dog would try to find the squeaker or hummer in it and tear it to pieces.

Top 10 Things On Obama's To-Do List

Purloined from the "Late Night With David Letterman" Newsletter.

• 10. Remove Alaska from the Union.

• 9. Have the FCC look into getting Fox News taken off cable.

• 8. Hire some chubby interns.

• 7. Learn how to mispronounce "nuclear".

• 6. Take down all the Three Stooges posters in the Oval Office.

• 5. Less talk, more Barack.

• 4. Broker peace agreement between hosts of "The View".

• 3. Appoint Joe the Plumber ambassador to Home Depot.

• 2. Ask Oprah if she'll take care of the budget deficit.

• 1. Begin his 2012 campaign.

The Corner-A Tribute To Tiger Stadium

For more information about preserving home plate and most of the original playing field at Michigan and Trumbull please visit here.

Seven Random Thoughts

This is a meme going around and I have been asked multiple times to participate-so I will as I am waiting for time outs on the Pistons/Golden State game to finish. Settle down Rasheed!

#1. I won't leave the house with the dryer running, the dishwasher going or even a fan on. A neighbor's house burned down after she left the clothes dryer on a years ago. Luckily she and her family were gone but not so lucky were the pets.

#2 My personal finance books have to balance. No penny off stuff for me. I have actually found mistakes from the bank, like numbers transposed or wrong dates for deposits. Once I even found the same debit twice on two different days and another time a credit of the same amount twice. I balance my receipts and all bookkeeping the minute I get it.

#3 As anal as I am about receipts and checkbooks as noted above, my desk is a total mess. I have all sorts of sticky notes, and bits of newspapers stuck on the monitor, the side of the computer case and in the drawers of a make shift desk in the kitchen. I just found a coupon that expired two months ago stuck under the keyboard. I try but somehow a clean desk makes me nervous and unproductive.

#4 The older I get the less I watch TV as I get antsy watching it and end up screaming at the commercials unless I find a way to distract myself while they are on. I rarely watch commercial TV and come February will probably watch the one show I like (Brothers and Sisters) over the Internet. If football never showed up on any channel I would be happy but sofa slug finds a way to watch 7 or more games on Saturday alone, so by not buying one of those digital boxes, I can guarantee at least a couple of games don't get into my space.

#5 I don't borrow books from the library. If I choose to read a book, I buy it but always at least 40% off. The local book outlet closed a few years ago so I have become more selective in my purchases. I still have enough backlogged books to read to last until I am 90 but still keep a list to watch for and always a wish list at Amazon with a price trigger. I will die with a book or magazine in my hand.

#6 The only type of video or computer games I really like are word or shape puzzle types--Tetris, Scrabble or similar that I can play against the computer or solo. I don't really like timed ones as I muse over my words and sometimes walk away and come back. I guess I get distracted or try to do too many things at once. I have some crosswords I have been working on for days that I have saved to complete. The puzzles with puns drive me bonkers.

#7 I have SAD. Seasonal Affect Disorder. I need sun. The syndrome hit early this year as it came at a time with some other dishevels in my life. Instead of baking all night to crawl out of the rut, I have been snuggling with a sick kitty. With hubby retired (part of the above dishevel) I no longer cook until 4AM like I used to and send the goodies into work with him. I need to find another quiet distraction for my insomniac AMs. I tried my other hobby rubber stamping but apparently that was too noisy for slug boy. Inking the edges of card stock woke him up. (eyes roll here)

So if you got this far and want to participate, feel free to. Make sure you post below that you did, so I can come visit. I am hoping to add some of the soup and stew recipes I have created over the summer with photos-I need to edit a few photos as I must omit some of the resulting items on a plate or tray--or cover it somehow. I now always make sure I take photos of individual productions instead of finished presentations. Then I don't have to worry about the recipe Nazi.

Targetted

Chock Full Of Shopping Carts @ Yahoo! Video

Bad Roll Of the Dice

ETA-My man is coming home Dec. 3!

McDyess will re-sign with the Pistons on Dec. 3, after a league-mandated 30-day waiting period expires. He will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2008-09 season.

Big trade in the NBA today. You all know I love my Pistons. But the hardest part of this is the loss of Antonio McDyess. All the injuries, comebacks, smiles, dedication, and teamwork from this man for an ending like this?? Make it not so. I heard he will retire rather than report to a place he doesn't feel he belongs. Hopefully, Denver will just waive him and he can resign with Detroit again. There has to be a place for him somewhere-best man and first man off the bench. Gimme back my Dice.

Free MP3 From The Boss.

click this link below.

A Night With The Jersey Devil

Happy Halloween!

I Put A Spell On You.

Don't Be A Jerk-Vote!

Put a Fiver In Your Pocket

Yum Yum Yum!!

Save 5 Bucks At Whole Foods!

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Chubby Sunshine

I was feeling a bit down today and someone sent me this. Enjoy.

McCarthyism In The 21st Century??

It must stop now! Please read and sign if you agree.You don't have to be an educator to support an end of to the desperate measures by politicians and others. Think for yourselves-not how others want you to think!

End McCarthyism Forever!

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Investing In Your Future

I saw this on a blog earlier this morning with several back links. I have no idea where the origination point was--so thanks all you very witty people. I am not a beer drinker.....yet.

"If you had purchased $1,000 of Delta Air Lines stock one year ago, you would have $49 left.

"With Fannie Mae, you would have $2.50 left of the original $1,000.

"With AIG, you would have less than $15 left.

"But, if you had purchased $1,000 worth of beer one year ago, drunk all of the beer, then turned in the cans for the aluminum recycling REFUND, you would have $214 cash.

"Based on the above, the best current investment advice is to drink heavily and recycle..."

Tip Greed

Do you know that some restaurants charge the waiters a credit card fee if you put the tip on the bill when paying? There was an article in the paper about it Sunday. The owners of the establishment get charged 1.8 to 3.5 % of the total to accept your credit card as payment. They are now passing the percentage of the bill that is a tip onto the waiter by deducting from the total amount of tip. Nice, huh? And you don't know it unless the waiter happens to tell you.

The average a waiter makes including tips in the US was 8.93 an hour as of 2007 according to the Labor Statistics. It did not say how many establishments are doing this percentage thing, but now that its "out in the open" I am betting a lot more will do it now that it's "legal".

I think we should all now go out of our way to place the tip in the waiter's hand-don't leave on the table because you don't know who will get it. Give it to the waiter and say thanks. I used to do this because I wasn't sure if they actually got the tips-now I will make sure they do.

It's All About The Fake Pres.

See more Paris Hilton videos at Funny or Die

Mr. Breathed's Opus

My favorite Sunday comic is ending on November 2. I have no reason to buy the Sunday edition after that. I used to get the paper for the coupons, but even those are going the way of the dinosaurs. I imagine had we been tortured with 4 more years of Bush and other whacks, he might have stuck around. Isn't Sarah winkie worth a few more weeks? Come live with me Opus, I will always have a spot for you.

"PBTTTF!"

Quotes From The Dark Side

"Are you kidding me, the mayor of Wasilla, Alaska? Yeah, that's who you want in the White House during a time of crisis. When she got a phone call at 3 in the morning, it was because a moose had gotten in the garbage can." --Bill Maher

"I think this is pertinent because McCain has been running this campaign based on 'we're at war, it's a dangerous world out there'. The democrats don't get that. I, John McCain, am the only one standing between the blood-thirsty Al Qaedas and you. But if I die, this stewardess can handle it." --Bill Maher

"Five kids? Does anyone in that party understand the concept of pulling out?" --Bill Maher

"When they were vetting her for this job, like three seconds ago, she said,
quote, I'm not making this up, 'What is it exactly that the VP does every day?' Let me field that for you, Sarah. They start wars, they enrich their friends, they subvert the Constitution, and they shoot people in the face.
That's what the vice president does." --Bill Maher

"Today President Bush called Gov. Palin and congratulated her. Bush told Palin the job of vice president is very important because as vice president, you get to tell the president what to do." --Jay Leno

"John McCain's VP pick is the governor of Alaska, an unknown hockey mom named Sarah Palin that no one ever heard of. The only other job she had in politics was the mayor of a small town known as Wasilla, Alaska, and now she has the opportunity to be on a ticket opposite of Barack Obama, the first black man she's ever seen." --Bill Maher

"This isn't a presidential ticket, this is a sitcom. The maverick and the MILF." --Bill Maher

"There was some breaking news out of Dayton, Ohio today, where Republican presidential candidate John McCain introduced the world to his third wife." --Jon Stewart

"She's not bad looking. She looks like one of those women in the Van Halen videos who takes off her glasses, shakes out her hair, and then all of a sudden, she's in high heels and a bikini. All of a sudden, I am FOR drilling in Alaska." --Jimmy Kimmel

"Not only is she young, they're saying she's the prettiest candidate for Vice President since John Edwards." --Jimmy Kimmel

"Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is John McCain's choice. Here's what we know about her: her name is Sarah Palin." --Jay Leno

"Actually, it was kind of a smart choice. McCain went with a woman because he didn't want to have to be in a position to have to get CPR from Mitt Romney." --Jay Leno

"Palin and McCain are a good pair. She's pro-life and he's clinging to life." --Jay Leno

"The McCain people believe that Americans will disregard her inexperience because they will fall in love with her story. She was a runner up in the 1984 Miss Alaska Pageant., which may sound trite, but you try walking in high-heeled snow shoes." --Bill Maher

"And the trump card, why Americans will fall in love with her, she's got five kids. How can you not vote for someone who has five children, including an infant? Some touching details about the infant: it has Down's Syndrome, she had it when she was 43 years old, and it looks a lot like John Edwards." --Bill Maher

"Sarah Palin, she's getting ready for tomorrow's debate, too. I understand
she now knows all three branches of government." --Jay Leno

Well, some people think Sarah Palin took a swipe at Joe Biden's age when she said that she had been listening to Biden's speeches since the second grade. Which is kind of ironic, because Biden has been listening to McCain's speeches since he was in the second grade." --Jay Leno

"See, you've got to admit, Sarah Palin does look great when they walk out,
but that's causing a problem for McCain now. In fact, now they call the
ticket 'Beauty and the Deceased.'" --Jay Leno

Here's some good news. The government is talking about stimulus checks
again. The bad news? We're the ones that are writing them." --Jay Leno

"But tomorrow night is the vice presidential debate, also known as the
debate to nowhere." --David Letterman

"But don't kid yourself. This is for all the marbles, this debate tomorrow
night. And Sarah Palin is nothing if not diligent. She's working hard on
preparing for the debate with Joe Biden. Earlier today in Arizona we just
heard that she shot a donkey." --David Letterman

"Earlier today, John McCain and Sarah Palin introduced a new 'just say no' program. McCain told Sarah Palin, 'If a reporter asks you any questions, just say no!'" --Jay Leno

I think this unprecedented financial crisis is great news for George Bush.
Now this will be the president's lasting legacy! It will cover up all the
things that were going to be his legacy! I mean, just think of Iraq, torture, wiretapping, Katrina as little paint drips on the floor of his presidency. This financial disaster is like painting the whole floor! Now I don't see any mistakes. It really freshens the place up. Now, sure people in New Orleans' ninth word still don't have houses. But soon neither will anyone." --Stephen Colbert

"Did you all watch the presidential debate Friday night? You know, a lot of analysts were calling it a tie; they say neither man stumbled. That's how low the bar is now. Apparently not stumbling is considered a huge accomplishment in politics. He didn't stumble, fantastic!" --Jay Leno

Got any to add, including the other side? Let me know-equal ridicule on my part.

Do Or Do Not-It's About YOU!

OHMYGODSOCIETYISCOLLAPSING...................

Urgent Business-This Is Not Spam

Date: Tue, Sep 23, 2008 at 1:18 PM

Subject: URGENT BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP

DEAR AMERICAN:

I NEED TO ASK YOU TO SUPPORT AN URGENT SECRET BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP WITH ATRANSFER OF FUNDS OF GREAT MAGNITUDE.I AM MINISTRY OF THE TREASURY OF THE REPUBLIC OF AMERICA. MY COUNTRY HAS HADCRISIS THAT HAS CAUSED THE NEED FOR LARGE TRANSFER OF FUNDS OF 800 BILLIONDOLLARS US. IF YOU WOULD ASSIST ME IN THIS TRANSFER, IT WOULD BE MOSTPROFITABLE TO YOU.I AM WORKING WITH MR. PHIL GRAM, LOBBYIST FOR UBS, WHO WILL BE MY REPLACEMENT ASMINISTRY OF THE TREASURY IN JANUARY. AS A SENATOR, YOU MAY KNOW HIM AS THELEADER OF THE AMERICAN BANKING DEREGULATION MOVEMENT IN THE 1990S. THISTRANSACTIN IS 100% SAFE.THIS IS A MATTER OF GREAT URGENCY. WE NEED A BLANK CHECK. WE NEED THE FUNDS ASQUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. WE CANNOT DIRECTLY TRANSFER THESE FUNDS IN THE NAMES OFOUR CLOSE FRIENDS BECAUSE WE ARE CONSTANTLY UNDER SURVEILLANCE. MY FAMILYLAWYER ADVISED ME THAT I SHOULD LOOK FOR A RELIABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY PERSON WHOWILL ACT AS A NEXT OF KIN SO THE FUNDS CAN BE TRANSFERRED.PLEASE REPLY WITH ALL OF YOUR BANK ACCOUNT, IRA AND COLLEGE FUND ACCOUNT NUMBERSAND THOSE OF YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TO WALLSTREETBAILOUT@TREASURY.GOVSO THAT WE MAY TRANSFER YOUR COMMISSION FOR THIS TRANSACTION. AFTER I RECEIVETHAT INFORMATION, I WILL RESPOND WITH DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT SAFEGUARDSTHAT WILL BE USED TO PROTECT THE FUNDS.

YOURS FAITHFULLY MINISTER OF TREASURY PAULSON

Vote No On The Bailout!

I suggest you use an email that is secondary but your real name etc.

Vote Here

Edits To My Blog

Tonight I removed two blogs I had recently written from "Eyeballs". I had included links to a blog that for some reason, wanted me to remain anonymous whenever I commented to his/her blog. I said no. I have a rule when commenting on blogs. I always use my real name. You can click my name if I leave a comment on your blog and it will take you back to either Eyeballs or Papertango-depending on the connection to your blog. There is also a link to either/or on my sidebar.

I do not leave nasty, troll-like postings on any blog. I know there are lots out there who do and it makes me spit! If I have something to say and don't want anyone to know who I am, there are anonymous blogs out there that allow you to do that. If you go to PaperTango (see sidebar), there is a "bitch" logo. Click that and email the proprietor (it's not me) and ask to be added or just leave a complaint/response/drunken diatribe on any post listed. That is just one of many such blogs out there that allow this.

Again, if I visit your blog and have a comment, a snort, or even a giggle-I will always use my real name with a link to one of my blogs. If I don't feel comfortable having that link, I won't post anything and just close the page. I hope you will offer me the same consideration.

ETA:I am posting this blog to both Eyeballs and Papertango.

ETA-I removed the links to protect the other blogger-which is apparently what said blogger felt was needed to keep any social connection I had to said blogger anonymous . I was not nor am I out to protect myself. There was a bill introduced this past spring HB-775 which was possibly entered to protect from bullying anonymously. I certainly understand that, as the main recipients of such a law would be children or minors. It won't wash, but you never know with this administration.

Dear Red States

This is making the rounds (from an anonymous post on Craig's List). I love it! Feel free to pass it on.

Dear Red States, We've decided we're leaving.

We intend to form our own country, and we're taking the other Blue States with us. In case you aren't aware, that includes Hawaii, Oregon,Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois and all the Northeast. We believe this split will be beneficial to the nation, and especially to the people of the new country of New California.

To sum up briefly:

• You get Texas, Oklahoma and all the slave states.
• We get stem cell research and the best beaches.
• We get Elliot Spitzer.
• You get Ken Lay.
• We get the Statue of Liberty.
• You get Dollywood.
• We get Intel and Microsoft.
• You get WorldCom.
• We get Harvard.
• You get Ole' Miss.
• We get 85 percent of America's venture capital and entrepreneurs.
• You get Alabama.
• We get two-thirds of the tax revenue.
• You get to make the red states pay their fair share.
• Since our aggregate divorce rate is 22 percent lower than the Christian Coalition's, we get a bunch of happy families.
• You get a bunch of single moms.

Please be aware that Nuevo California will be pro-choice and anti-war, and we're going to want all our citizens back from Iraq at once. If you need people to fight, ask your evangelicals. They have kids they're apparently willing to send to their deaths for no purpose, and they don't care if you don't show pictures of their children's caskets coming home. We do wish you success in Iraq, and hope that the WMDs turn up, but we're not willing to spend our resources in Bush's Quagmire.

With the Blue States in hand, we will have firm control of 80 percent of the country's fresh water, more than 90 percent of the pineapple and lettuce, 92 percent of the nation's fresh fruit, 95 percent of America's quality wines (you can serve French wines at state dinners) 90 percent of all cheese, 90 percent of the high tech industry, most of the U.S. low-sulfur coal, all living redwoods, sequoias and condors, all the Ivy and Seven Sister schools, plus Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Cal Tech and MIT.

With the Red States, on the other hand, you will have to cope with 88 percent of all obese Americans (and their projected health care costs), 92 percent of all U.S. mosquitoes, nearly 100 percent of the tornadoes, 90 percent of the hurricanes, 99 percent of all Southern Baptists, virtually 100 percent of all televangelists, Rush Limbaugh, Bob Jones University, Clemson and the University of Georgia. We get Hollywood and Yosemite, thank you.

Additionally, 38 percent of those in the Red states believe Jonah was actually swallowed by a whale, 62 percent believe life is sacred unless we're discussing the death penalty or gun laws, 44 percent say that evolution is only a theory, 53 percent that Saddam was involved in 9/11 and 61 percent of you crazy bastards believe you are people with higher morals then we lefties.

By the way, we're taking the good pot, too. You can have that dirt weed they grow in Mexico.

Peace out, Blue States

Pet Food Recall-Making Humans Sick Too!

Several brands of pet food-both cats and dogs-have been recalled in the US. They were produced in a factory in Pennsylvania and the plant was voluntarily shut down after two reported cases of Salmonella in HUMANS! The caregivers for the pets were possibly infected from dispensing the food to the pets.

Please go read the list of brands involved HERE. Be sure to pass the link on to all pet owners both cats and dogs.Lets all be safe.

The Doggie Dictionary

LEASH: A strap which attaches to your collar, enabling you to lead your person where you want him/her to go.

DOG BED: any soft, clean surface, such as the white bedspread in the guest room or the newly upholstered couch in the living room.

DROOL: Is what you do when your persons have food and you don't. To do this properly you must sit as close as you can and look sad and let the drool fall to the floor, or better yet, on their laps.

SNIFF: A social custom to use when you greet other dogs. Place your nose as close as you can to the other dog's rear end and inhale deeply, repeat several times, or until your person makes you stop.

GARBAGE CAN: A container which your neighbors put out once a week to test your ingenuity. You must stand on your hind legs and try to push the lid off with your nose. If you do it right you are rewarded with margarine wrappers to shred, beef bones to consume and moldy crusts of bread.

BICYCLES: Two-wheeled exercise machines, invented for dogs to control body fat. To get maximum aerobic benefit, you must hide behind a bush and dash out, bark loudly and run alongside for a few yards; the person then swerves and falls into the bushes, and you prance away.

DEAFNESS: This is a malady which affects dogs when their person want them in and they want to stay out. Symptoms include staring blankly at the person, then running in the opposite direction, or lying down.

THUNDER: This is a signal that the world is coming to an end. Humans remain amazingly calm during thunderstorms, so it is necessary to warn them of the danger by trembling uncontrollably, panting, rolling your eyes wildly, and following at their heels.

WASTEBASKET: This is a dog toy filled with paper, envelopes, and old candy wrapper. When you get bored, turn over the basket and strew the papers all over the house until your person comes home

SOFAS: Are to dogs like napkins are to people. After eating it is polite to run up and down the front of the sofa and wipe your whiskers clean.

BATH: This is a process by which the humans drench the floor, walls and themselves. You can help by shaking vigorously and frequently.

LEAN: Every good dog=92s response to the command "sit !", especially if your person is dressed for an evening out. Incredibly effective before black-tie events.

BUMP: The best way to get your human's attention when they are drinking a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

GOOSE BUMP: A maneuver to use as a last resort when the Regular Bump doesn't get the attention you require.....especially effective when combined with The Sniff. See above.

LOVE: Is a feeling of intense affection, given freely and without restriction. The best way you can show your love is to wag your tail. If you're lucky, a human will love you in return.

Dog Lovers-Please Read!!!

I came across a story this morning about a toy being sold at big box pet stores and dollar stores across the United States. Please click this link and read it including the embedded links in the story, which will take you to a blog and the manufacturing web site. Then I beg of you to go thru your pet toys to see if you have any like it and take them away from the fur children. Lastly, please send the link for this blog post to anyone who might have dogs, loves dogs or who can send it on to other who will benefit. Thanks from my crazy ass dogs. I had two of these potentially deadly things in my stash, having bought them on sale at Target.

Running For Prez

What Kind of Music Am I?

You Are Classical Music

You are a somewhat serious person who enjoys studying subjects deeply. Art of all kinds interests you, and a good piece of art can really effect you emotionally. You are inspired by human achievement, and you appreciate work that takes years to accomplish. For you, the finer things in life are not about snobbery - they're about quality.

What Kind of Music Are You?

60 Year Old Wisdom-No One Listened Again, As Usual.

"Of course the people don't want war. But after all, it's the leaders of the country who determine the policy, and it's always a simple matter to drag the people along whether it's a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger."

-- Herman Goering at the Nuremberg trials

Free Greenies!

Now don't get your hopes up to getting high. This ain't the 60's anymore. This is for your dog or cat-especially if you have to give them meds or some daily nasty tasting thing. I have been giving my Loki a daily dose of antibiotics and guess what? He's worse than a kid-I have the scars to prove it. So click HERE and get your free samples-dog, cat or both. You will be glad you did and their breath will be so much nicer too--for all those fur kisses you will get.

Do Animals Have Basic Rights? Should They?

Read This and Ponder

Buying Gas With A Credit Card? Beware!!

Uno's Has Pot Stickers-Ho Hum.

New Menu from Uno's

Today after shopping at the home improvement store, we decided to lunch at Uno's. I had a coupon for $5.00 off $15.00 so seemed like a good deal. Normally I like their Eggplant and Tomato pizza. This week, they have a new menu and one of the items was this-pot stickers.

This is their photo-because what I got on my plate was ugly. And tasteless. Doughy, certainly not sweet, sour, salty or even remotely hot. I told the waitress who gushed about them I would never order them again. I was very disappointed. And my cauliflower mash was ice cold. Send it back and still not hot. Just a heads up if you are interested in this. I wanted wow and got poo.

Mellencamp Fans??

John has a new album out on the 15th of July but you can get a couple of free downloads courtesy of Vanity Fair magazine . Mellencamp is often referred to as the "Poet of the Interstate" and is one of the best live concert entertainers out there.


So grab your freebies while you can. If the above link doesn't work, try this one. In both cases you MUST enter this code LDLF6.

Both sites have the same two songs.

Southern Nights In The North Supper

Here is my idea of perfect holiday food. I made some vegetarian "snausages" a while back and froze them. Of the three flavors I made, this one was my favorite. Sun dried tomatoes (since no one should be eating fresh ones until the whole salmonella mess is clued in) have the most intense flavor. I often just eat them fresh from the bag (I buy dried ones, not those soaked in oil).

I served the grilled and sliced "snausages" over spiced rice (sorta my version of Jambalaya). The lower right "patty" is mac and cheese with a batter around the outside and then dipped in bread crumbs and baked until the outside is crispy and set. I am not into cheese but hubby loved these.
Here is a close up of the Jambalaya. Very intense and spicy , so have a pitcher of lemonade or iced tea on hand to cool off the tongue.
A close up of the mac and cheese pattie. I served it on a few fresh baby leafy greens. The messiest of this plate was the grilled corn on the cob. I melted Earth Balance with garlic and paprika, a little salt and pepper to drizzle and bam! was this tasty. A perfect plate that even the pooches enjoyed. They love corn on the cob and we serve it to them while holding the ends. Certainly no leftovers! Have a safe and thoughtful Independence Day here in the USA and Happy Canada Day to our northern buds. Share the bounty with all you love.

Possible Titles For George (Monkeyboy) Bush's Memoirs

Thanks to David Letterman and his wily bunch of writers. A video clip is here .


10."Tuesdays With Moron"

9. "Surviving The 12-Hour Work Week"

8. "What Being President Learned Me"

7. "The 7 Habits Of Highly Incompetent People"

6. "All I Ever Really Needed To Know I Learned In Kindergarten"

5. "Sloppy Joe's Is Tasty"

4. "It Takes A Village Idiot"

3. "How To Lose Wars And Alienate World Leaders"

2. "At Least I Never Had A Gay Date In An Airport Bathroom"

1. "Huh?"

Why I Hate Summer

Click HERE!

Isn't Osgood Yummy?

Iowa Flooding

For anyone interested, I have photos up on my other blog of the devastation. When I have the promised video, I will let you know with a link to You Tube.

Stay safe-I think we are in for a hellacious summer.

Hardware

I won this! For more info, read here. Not bad for an old lady, eh?

A Sad and Eerie Anniversary

For more info, visit my other blog here .

3 Minute Video-9/11's A Lie!

Kwame The Clown

Yesterday Kwame Kilpatrick vetoed his own removal from office.Detroit, one of my favorite places to visit, has lost so much in recent years. Now any dignity is gone too. Watch this parody from Jon Stewart as the world laughs (and some cry) at how low a man can go and still think he is right.

Rear Ended

Officer, this is how the fight started...

I rear-ended the car in front of me. I admit that. It was my fault. So, we both pull over to the side of the road, and slowly the driver gets out of his car. . . And you know how you just-get-so-stressed... And life... Sometimes life seems like... Suddenly funny?

Well, the driver of the car is a DWARF!

He gets out of his car and I get out of my car. He is frowning and scowling and he storms over to me.

Right up close at me he looks up in my face and says, "I AM NOT HAPPY!"

And I don't know what possessed me, officer, but I look down at him and I said, "Well, if you're not Happy, which one are you?"

-- And that's when the fight started.

Doh!!

Go read this.......here.

Sundried Pesto

I wasn't gonna post any food tonight (since I didn't eat anything) but this was soooo good earlier this month. Sun dried tomato pesto tossed with pasta and garlic and tiny bits of broccoli. It was even better warmed up (isn't it funny how that is?) Hubby's had shredded cheese and mine didn't.

I also made fresh biscuits with Cheddar for him. And the strips on the right are veggie patties that I grilled until crunchy and then cut into strips much like sausage links. These veggie patties are from Costco and are the best I have ever eaten!

A sprig of fresh basil and ta da! A dinner better than anything in the local dining chain. When I get the recipe written for the pesto, I will publish it here. I grow my own herbs even in the winter ( Aerogrow) and what a cost saving investment it has been!

Thanks For The Emails My Friends

To everyone who wrote me today with hugs and encouragement over a recent development, thank you so much. I appreciate all the positives uplifts you sent. Us humans make mistakes and none of us are immune. I was up all night upset over it and have not eaten today as my stomach went into overdrive. I will be better tomorrow after my pot of tea at Gramma's.

I consoled myself with a new vegetarian cookbook, a grass de-thatcher (see what a weirdo I am) and some glittery 99 cent rub ons from Micheal's. I am easy-and the grass is finally gonna get mowed (I could not find a rent-a-goat locally to munch the weeds-but the dandelions are pretty) . Just my credit card is shot! Old mowers die hard and expensively!

Happy 31st birthday to my baby boy! Ben and his lovely Johanna are out hiking for the day and I am sending the GC via email so they can add some goodies for their kayaks. (did you know you have to get a license for a kayak in Iowa? Grubby taxing scum everywhere).

Anyways-thanks for everything. I need to simplify my life for a while and go smell my blooming lilacs! I now have 6 beautiful dwarf Korean bushes in light purple! Photos coming soon!

I Truly Apologize to Lindsay

I made a mistake last night and published a post that I meant to save for later. It was very late and I didn't check before I shut down that I had hit publish instead of save. I had made up several posts for later publication but obviously was not paying attention to what I did.

Please accept my apology Lindsay and every one else involved with the project. I enjoyed "meeting" all of you and wish you all the best. I look forward to the publication too.

Take care everyone-and don't screw up like I did-even as innocent as it was, I hurt someone.

What TV Mom I Am?

I moved this from my other blog but it's too white and hard to read, so here it will rest for now. I need to learn how to change colors in these things-not as easy as plain text. (I did a copy and past and delete instead)

You are Roseanne Connor from Roseanne. You've probably got a sarcastic streak, and you may take some pleasure in embarrassing your brood. But ultimately, your kids know that when they really, really, really need to talk about something, you will listen...eventually. Truth is, you tend to see things from their points of view; you just don't like to let them in on that until necessary.

That's your little secret. And while it may not be your style (or fit your schedule) to compulsively whip up a batch of chocolate chip cookies, if your kids want to microwave some popcorn and watch TV with you, there's always room on the couch, and even on your lap.

What TV mom are You? Click here.

Monday Morning Political Humour

Presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and John McCain were flying to a debate.

Barack looked at Hillary, chuckled and said, 'You know I could throw a $1,000 bill out of the window right now and make somebody very happy.'

Hillary shrugged her shoulders and replied, 'I could throw ten $100 bills out of the window and make ten people very happy.'

John added, 'That being the case, I could throw one hundred $10 bills out of the window and make a hundred people very happy.'

Hearing their exchange, the pilot rolled his eyes and said to his copilot, 'Such big-shots back there. I could throw all three of them out of the window and make 304 million people very happy.'

I'm voting for the Pilot!!

National Stamp Out Hunger Day

If we can afford to buy organic foods and cookbooks to feed ourselves, we can all afford to put out a small bag of non-perishables for the food drive for today, Saturday May 10th.

I always have fun with this food drive-making sure I box up a complete meal for 5-6 including desserts. I try to make at least a two day feast (even tho I know they will break it down and disperse it otherwise). I purchased canned chicken, dried pasta and two sauces, several soups and some boxed crackers, some seasonings, canned salmon, dried eggs and some dehydrated hash browns, and some cookie mix and a cake for dessert. I try to stay healthy in my selections and even tho I am a vegetarian, I do not force that choice on those who need healthy food and give no lecture.

I hope you will participate. Watch this video for more info and get your bag out to your mail box-even street box collection-and know you helped feed a family today. No one should go hungry in this country-the land of plenty and probably way too much.

Uncle Bob's Smoky Mountain Sauce

Hey, like hot sauce??? I found this at a local dive and they were selling it, too. I don't like catsup and this was great on my fries. Tangy, sweet with a tiny bite.

Anything to help the local economy, right?

Free Veggie Burgers at Johnny Rockets!

Get your coupon here-it's good all month of May!

What?? Eateries in Mexico but none in Hawaii or Canada? On cruise ships but not in Iowa? Jeez. Don't forget to forward to all your friends. Give a cow a break today.

Happy Anniversary Kiddies!

One year gone so fast-more photo links here.

Dracula's Lament

Useful Condescending Phrases

Some useful phrases to use as an Evil Overlord or they might be useful phrases around work but they probably only work well if you are a Evil Overlord.

Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.

The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.

I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to pronounce.

Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.

I have plenty of talent and vision. I just don't care.

I like you. You remind me of when I was young and stupid.

What am I? Flypaper for freaks!?

I'm not being rude. You're just insignificant.

I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.

I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.

It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.

Yes, I am an agent of Satan, but my duties are largely ceremonial.

No, my powers can only be used for good.

How about never? Is never good for you?

I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to worship me.

You sound reasonable...Time to up my medication.

I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.

I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message...

I don't work here. I'm a consultant.

Who me? I just wander from room to room.

My toys! My toys! I can't do this job without my toys!

It might look like I'm doing nothing, but at the cellular level I'm really quite busy.

At least I have a positive attitude about my destructive habits.

You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.

I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.

Someday, we'll look back on this, laugh nervously and change the subject.

Sunflower Seed Bread

wheat flour, sunflower seeds, barley flakes, soy granules.

I was just guessing as I threw items into the bowl and forgot to write them down. I will remember someday. I used to watch Rachael Ray and she never used anything to measure. So I forgot. But the bread was good!

What Kind of Shoes Am I?

You Are Bare Feet

You are a true free spirit, and you can't be tied down. Even wearing shoes can be a little too constraining for you at times! You are very comfortable in your own skin. You are one of the most real people around. You don't have anything to hide. Open and accepting, you are willing to discuss or entertain almost any topic. You are a very tolerant person. You are accepting and not judgmental. You should live: Somewhere warm You should work: At your own business, where you can set the rules

What Kind of Shoe Are You?

Marinated Mozzie Salad with Sprouted Beans

Isn't this pretty? Hubby was so late last night and I just wanted to make him something quick. He is a cheese man. So I marinated the mozzie in tomatoes, onions ands spices overnight. I then made thin slices.

The main salad is spring mix topped with misc. sprouted legumes including lentils, then the mozzie was placed on top. I drizzled rosemary/garlic infused olive oil over the top with a tad of vinegar. Then the whole thing was topped with grilled colored peppers, onion slices and garlic (simmered in half olive oil/half Earth Balance.

For once, he ate his greens!

Mambo Sprouts-Organic Coupons and More!

I got this wonderful coupon booklet at Whole Foods with bunches of quality coupons in it. You can get this via email, snail mail or Reader. Check it out! And save some dollars for other stuff-like gas :(.

Mambo Sprouts

My American Idol!

Olympic Trials 2008

Boston Herald

Sun Dried Tomato Polenta

Oh my gosh this was soooooooooooooo yummy! I made the basic polenta recipe (on the package) but added sautéed garlic and sun dried tomatoes towards the end. I made so much I was giving it away and still froze some too! One night I fried up a couple slices and served it over steamed spinach with lemon juice. Light and summery dish with a salad and sliced fruit.

These tapa pans I got at Costco are just the right size for one or two people to share. Nice that I can use them on the stove, in the oven and on the small gas grill we have. I sometimes eat right out of them!
So here is the polenta over spinach. Pretty yum
Now this is even more interesting as I used all the bits and pieces of "stuff" from the fridge one night and made what I call a potatotomatillo melange. Whatever was getting long in the tooth, went into the grill pan with plenty of olive oil and garlic.
I used onion, poblano chilis, red potatoes (leave the skins on) tomato slices and a tomatillo. Just toss it all together and season it with fresh herbs to your liking. Top the polenta with it. And add a dash of lime Tabasco for some extra zip.

I have been cooking like crazy recently-maybe I will actually get some photos up soon. Food is so much more interesting than politics, ya think? Happy Earth Dad a day early-Monday is Boston Marathon Day for my friend Mark. Have a safe run everyone.

Taxes

Tax his land,
Tax his bed,
Tax the table
At which he's fed.

Tax his tractor,
Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes
Are the rule.

Tax his cow,
Tax his goat,
Tax his pants,
Tax his coat.

Tax his ties,
Tax his shirt,
Tax his work,
Tax his dirt.

Tax his tobacco,
Tax his drink,
Tax him if he
Tries to think.

Tax his cigars,
Tax his beers,
If he cries, then
Tax his tears.

Tax his car,
Tax his gas,
Find other ways
To tax his ass

Tax all he has
Then let him know
That you won't be done
Till he has no dough.

When he screams and hollers,
Then tax him some more,
Tax him till
He's good and sore.

Then tax his coffin ,
Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in
Which he's laid.

Put these words
upon his tomb,
" Taxes drove me to my doom..."

When he's gone,
Do not relax,
It’s time to apply
The inheritance tax.

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Excise Taxes
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Gross Receipts Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Personal Property Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Road Usage Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Service Charge Tax
Social Security Tax
Sales Tax
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
(Feel free to add any that have been overlooked.)

Can you spell "POLITICIAN!!!!"

Two Things

2 Names I go by:

1. Mom
2. Just Jan

2 Things I am wearing right now:

1. Chico Jeans
2.Running Shoes at 2AM

2. 2 of my favorite things to do:

1. Rubber Stamping
2. Cooking Vegetarian yums

2 things I want very badly at this moment:

1. Marley to get better
2. Hubby to stop snoring

2 of my favorite pets ever:

1. Clancy-king of the backyard
2. Willie-my very first cat back in 1962

2 people I'm tagging :

1. Courtney (so she will update her blog more)
2. Allison as she gets hit with all of these thingies.

2 Things I did last night:

1. Finished the taxes (and mailed them one day early-refund!)
2. Watched hockey, basketball and baseball while putzing in the kitchen-multi tasking or crazy?

2 things I've eaten today:

1. Black olive and green pepper pizza
2. half a cantaloupe

2 People I last talked to:

1. Courtney
2. the sofa slug

2 Things I plan on doing tomorrow:

1. Take Marley back to the vet if he isn't any better
2. Make roasted taro root masala with brown rice for dinner

2 Longest Car Rides:

1. Houston Texas 1976-I got preggers with Ben on that trip!
2. Orlando Florida 1985 the last long one and never again!!

2 Favorite Holidays

1. Halloween
2.Crim weekend (local celebration)

2 Favorite Vacations

1. San Fransisco forever ago
2. Mackinac Island-just me and my kids (can we say fudge for breakfast?)

2 Dream Vacations

1. Run a marathon on Antarctica-only 7 grand without transportation!
2. A week in NYC-with no budget, and a daily run thru Central Park

2 Favorite Beverages

1. English Breakfast tea
2. Volvic water

Predict Your Baby's Face

click here

upload photos and be ready to be amazed!

Top Political Slogans of 2007

(On an infant's shirt): Already smarter than Bush

1/20/09: End of an Error

That's OK, I Wasn't Using My Civil Liberties Anyway

Let's Fix Democracy in THIS Country First

If You Want a Nation Ruled By Religion, Move to Iran

Bush Like a Rock. Only Dumber.

You Can't Be Pro-War And Pro-Life At The Same Time

If You Can Read This, You're Not Our President

Of Course It Hurts: You're Getting Screwed by an Elephant

Hey, Bush Supporters: Embarrassed Yet?

George Bush: Creating the Terrorists Our Kids Will Have to Fight

Impeachment: It's Not Just for Blowjobs Anymore

America: One Nation, Under Surveillance

They Call Him "W" So He Can Spell It

Which God Do You Kill For?

Cheney/Satan '08

Jail to the Chief

Who Would Jesus Torture?

No, Seriously, Why Did We Invade

Bush: God's Way of Proving Intelligent Design is Full Of Crap

Bad president! No Banana.

We Need a President Who's Fluent In At Least One Language

We're Making Enemies Faster Than We Can Kill Them

Rich Man's War, Poor Man's Blood

Is It Vietnam Yet?

Bush Doesn't Care About White People, Either

Where Are We Going? And Why Are We In This Hand Basket?

You Elected Him. You Deserve Him.

Frodo Failed. Bush Has the Ring.

Impeach Cheney First

Dubya, Your Dad Shoulda Pulled Out, Too

When Bush Took Office, Gas Was $1.46

The Republican Party: Our Bridge to the 11th Century
"Apparently I am someone whose mind resembles nothing so much as a bunch of clowns in a pie fight."

Great American Meatout!

Today is the day!

If you cannot attend, participate wherever you be! For more info, click here.

An Acrobatic Ballet

I defy anyone who says ballet dancers are not also athletes.

Not An April Fooler-Better!

For anyone who "You Tubed" on April Fool's Day, you saw that all the links on the home page linked to a Rick Astley video. In other works, you were Rick Rolled.

Well, this is so much better as a Roll.

Dear Abby

Dear Abby:

My husband is a liar and a cheat. He has cheated on me from the beginning, and, when I confront him, he denies everything. What's worse, everyone knows that he cheats on me. It is so humiliating.

Also, since he lost his job six years ago, he hasn't even looked for a new one. All he does all day is smoke cigars, cruise around and shoot the breeze with his buddies while I have to work to pay the bills.

Since our daughter went away to college he doesn't even pretend to like me and hints that I may be a lesbian.

What should I do?

Signed: Clueless

------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Clueless:

Grow up and dump him. Good grief, woman. You don't need him anymore! You're a United States Senator from New York running for President of the United States. Act like one!

I So Love BBC America!

Now I can watch them on my computer too-stunning footage of penguins

Free Ink Refills April 2 Only

Get your free ink refill coupon by clicking this link for Walgreen's. It was also in the Sunday Walgreen's ad and in Parade Magazine inserts.

And Hawaii-you have a day all to yourself! So check the above link for details.

Johnny's French Chickie

I have no idea what she is singing about but she has Johnny Depp-so nothing else matters. Sigh.

Bush Wants Money For New World Threat!

A Prayer Answered

A little boy wanted $100.00 very badly and prayed for weeks, but nothing happened. Then he decided to write God a letter requesting the $100.00.When The postal authorities received the letter to God , USA , they decided to send it to the President.

The president was so amused that he instructed his secretary to send the little boy a $5.00 bill.. The president thought this would appear to be a lot of money to a little boy.

The little boy was delighted with the $5.00 bill and sat down to write a thank-you note to God, which read:

Dear God: Thank you very much for sending the money. However, I noticed that for some reason you sent it through Washington, DC., and those a**holes deducted $95.00 in taxes

Survey Says..................

How long have I been a vegetarian: 30 + years,---find myself going more vegan every year.

Why did I become vegetarian?: always wanted to (since choking on a chicken bone in 2nd grade-I stopped eating solid foods for a long time)-was partly raised on a farm and hated that my "pets" were being used as food. also health issues-but my Betsy cow really did it for me.

Vegetable I like the most: rutabaga-well, most root veggies I love

Vegetable I like the least: mushrooms-

Favorite fruit: cantaloupe or melons in general-and watermelon in season

Fruit you like the least: bananas-they made me sick when I was pregnant and now can't stand the smell of them ever. I do like plantains tho.

Favorite nut: macadamia-so expensive!

Favorite vegetarian main entree: any kind of thick soup/stews served with crusty home made bread

Favorite vegetarian dessert: fresh fruit but it's nice to share a slice of carrot cake (no frosting)-I am not into sweets much

Favorite herb or spice: is garlic a spice or herb? other than that, paprika-all styles

Herb or spice you like the least: I wasn't big into sage until I grew it fresh-so now I would say none.

Vegetarian recipe that would astonish me?: a bread recipe I would not eat :)

Food allergies / Foods I abstain from: mushrooms make me sick, most dairy (makes me sick-hate melted cheese for the most part), if it has eyeballs, I wont eat it! But I will try most other plants at least once.

What A Difference A Century Makes!

Here are some of the U.S. Statistics for the Year 1907:

The average life expectancy in the U.S. Was 47 years old.

Only 14 percent of the homes in the U.S. Had a bathtub.

Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.

A three-minute call from Denver to New York City cost eleven dollars. \

There were only 8,000 cars in the U.S., and only 144 miles of paved roads.

The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.

Alabama, Mississippi, Iowa, and Tennessee were each more heavily populated than California.

With a mere 1.4 million people, California was only the 21st most populous state in the Union.

The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower.

The average wage in the U.S. Was 22 cents per hour.

The average U.S. worker made between $200 and $400 per year .

A competent accountant could expect to earn $2000 per year.

A dentist made $2,500 per year.

A veterinarian $1,500 per year.

And a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.

More than 95 percent of all births in the U.S. took place at home.

Ninety percent of all U.S. Doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION!Instead, they attended so-called medical schools, many of which were condemned in the press AND the government as "substandard."

Sugar cost four cents a pound.

Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.

Coffee was fifteen cents a pound.

Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used Borax or egg yolks for shampoo.

Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from entering into their country for any reason.

Five leading causes of death in the U.S. Were: 1. Pneumonia and influenza 2. Tuberculosis 3. Diarrhea 4. Heart disease 5. Stroke

The American flag had 45 stars. Arizona, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Alaska hadn't been admitted to the Union yet.

The population of Las Vegas, Nevada, was only 30!

Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and ice tea hadn't been invented yet.

There was no Mother's Day or Father's Day.

Two out of every 10 U.S. Adults couldn't read or write.

Only 6 percent of all Americans had graduated from high school.

Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores.

Back then pharmacists said, "Heroin clears the complexion, gives buoyancy to the mind, regulates the stomach and bowels, and is, in fact, a perfect guardian Of health."

There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE U.S.A. !

Now I can post this for the whole world to see-from Iceland to Iraq to ships at sea and earthlings in space. Who'da thunk it?

Furry Happy Monsters

Just Because!

We Lost A Genius

Baked Stuffed Chicken

6-7 lb. chicken
1 cup melted butter
1 cup stuffing (Pepperidge Farm is good.)
1 cup uncooked popcorn (ORVILLE REDENBACHERS LOW FAT)
Salt/pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Brush chicken well with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
Fill cavity with stuffing and popcorn.
Place in baking pan with the neck end toward the back of the oven.
Listen for the popping sounds.
When the chicken's ass blows the oven door open and the chicken flies across the room, it is done.


And, you thought I couldn't cook ........

ETA-I hope you all know this is a funny-I don't do anything with eyeballs in my kitchen-or anywhere else for that matter!

Some Thoughts About The Past In Black And White

Black & White

Under age 40?
You won't understand.

You could hardly see for all the snow,
Spread the rabbit ears as far as they go.
Pull a chair up to the TV set,
"Good Night, David. Good Night, Chet."

My Mom used to cut chicken, chop eggs and spread Mayo on the same cutting board with the same knife and no bleach, but we didn't seem to get food poisoning.

My Mom used to defrost hamburger on the counter AND my sister used to eat it raw sometimes, too.

Our school sandwiches were wrapped in wax paper in a brown paper bag, not in icepack coolers, but I can't remember getting e.coli.

Almost all of us would have rather gone swimming in the lake instead of a pristine pool (talk about boring), no beach closures then.

The term cell phone would have conjured up a phone in a jail cell, and a pager was the school PA system.

We all took gym, not PE, and risked permanent injury with a pair of high top Ked's (only worn in gym) instead of having cross-training athletic shoes with air cushion soles and built in light reflectors. I can't recall any injuries but they must have happened because they tell us how much safer we are now. Flunking gym was not an option...even for stupid kids! I guess PE must be much harder than gym.

Speaking of school, we all said prayers and sang the national anthem, and staying in detention after school caught all sorts of negative attention. We must have had horribly damaged psyches.

What an archaic health system we had then. Remember school nurses? Ours wore a hat and everything.

I thought that I was supposed to accomplish something before I was allowed to be proud of myself.

I just can't recall how bored we were without computers, Play Station, Nintendo, X-box or 270 digital TV cable stations.

Oh yeah...and where was the Benadryl and sterilization kit when I got that bee sting? I could have been killed!

We played 'king of the hill' on piles of gravel left on vacant construction sites, and when we got hurt, Mom pulled out the 48-cent bottle of Mercurochrome (kids liked it better because it didn't sting like iodine did) and then we got our butt spanked. Now it's a trip to the emergency room, followed by a 10-day dose of a $49 bottle of antibiotics, and then Mom calls the attorney to sue the contractor for leaving a horribly vicious pile of gravel where it was such a threat.

We didn't act up at the neighbor's house either because if we did, we got our butt spanked there and then we got butt spanked again when we got home.

I recall Joey Reynolds from next door coming over and doing his tricks on the front stoop, just before he fell off. Little did his Mom know that she could have owned our house. Instead, she picked him up and swatted him for being such a goof. It was a neighborhood run amuck.

To top it off, not a single person I knew had ever been told that they were from a dysfunctional family. How could we possibly have known that? We needed to get into group therapy and anger management classes? We were obviously so duped by so many societal ills, that we didn't even notice that the entire country wasn't taking Prozac!

How did we ever survive?

TO ALL OF US WHO SHARED THIS ERA-WOO HOO!

AND TO ALL WHO DIDN'T- SORRY FOR WHAT YOU MISSED. I WOULDN'T TRADE IT FOR ANYTHING

Remember that life's most simple pleasures are very often the best.