Mind of Michel

The Great Bridge Book Review

2012-01-28T09:10:00.000-08:00

The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge by David McCullough

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book by McCullough. What I thought, starting out, was going to be a book merely about "building the Brooklyn Bridge" turned out to give me the excitement of the times in the mid 1800's. David did a very good job at building the excitement and adventure of the times to the point I wish I was there to witness the great feat. The bridge indeed is an epic story and staple to our industrial future. 5 star well deserved.

View all my reviews

Into the Wild Review

2012-01-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

Good read. Chris was to me a lonely person that not many understood maybe until his death shed light to his struggles fitting into a "normal" society. Assumptions to why Chris,aka Alex, did things one way or another baffled some but I think Jon did a very good job pointing out theories to those that seem to me to be more plausible than others have tried to prove. Off to try and find the movie now.

Perfect Hash Browns

2011-01-29T09:50:00.001-08:00

As I chow down on a plate of hash browns I feel I owe it to the all the people of this great world to share my secret to perfect hash browns. What is ironic, is that I am one of the worst cooks around. Let's say my menu includes hash browns, grilled cheese sandwiches, boxed macaroni and cheese and pizza. With this menu, I cannot be beat.

And now what you all have been waiting for...............the recipe to perfect hash browns. I will just tell you what to do, you figure out how the amount of ingredients.

1. Use a non-stick skillet. I have tried a pan with every type of non-stick spray and it just doesn't work the same. If you don't have one and too cheap to buy one, do not proceed to step 2.

2. Temp right about 300 degrees. Smother the skillet with butter.

3. Sprinkle Johnny's seasoning salt over smothered butter.

4. Spread shredded potatoes, what I call hash browns, over the "floor" of the skillet, don't leave any open spots, cover it completely. Take a spatula and pat the hash browns down creating a floor of hash browns.

5. Now you can take a little more Johnny's and sprinkle on top, I do not but I do take a little ground pepper and shake on top.

6. Cover the amazing dish and let cook until someone in the house asks:
A. "Dad/Honey, is there something burning?"
B. "Dad/Honey, are you cooking something?"
C. "Dad/Honey, your food is burning!"
D. Sound of the smoke detector, a family favorite.

7. Next, take spatula and flip hash browns and pat them down and cover back up.

8. Check after a few minutes. The hash browns will be done with both sides have a nice brownish color. Timing all depends on how fast #6 above happens.

The results will be an empty skillet and full belly! Enjoy, I do!

800# for Text and Cellphone Violators

2011-01-09T06:46:00.000-08:00

I have made it a mission to report any litter violators via the Washington State litter line. It is amazing how often I see litter being thrown out the window of a car, mostly cigarette butts.

I think we should have the same type of reporting system for people the you see driving down the road texting or using their cellphone without a headset. Rules are rules plus you can pick out most cars that have some sort of activity going on in the car other than driving. Eating food, playing with the radio and doing your make-up are other issues that distract the driver. We can't deem everything other than driving illegal but we we do have the text and cellphone law in effect.

The 800 line process does not issue a ticket but there is a notice sent to the registered driver and from what I understand so many incidents the registered driver will be ticketed.

I have posted a 2 week poll to the upper right of my blog, do you think an 800 line should be installed?

2011-01-08T06:25:00.000-08:00

I have collected penguins or have been a fan of penguins (wonder if they have their own facebook page?) since I was a young kid, not kidd, just kid. Anyways, my daughter Chelsea likes and to collect giraffes. I was thinking what do you call a group of giraffe? I thought giraffes would make sense but I know groups of animals are called by a different name. I personally think giraves sounds awesome but I was wrong once again. I have found a few different names herd, group, corps, troop, stretch and tower. How confusing, why so many names for groups of animals? Someone must have had too much time on their hands and wanted to confusion the whole herd of us, probably those damn penguii! Don't even get me going on what we call the animal's young. Below are some of the interesting animal group names I found, check out the group of baboon, that sure explains our Congress!

aardvark: aarmory
ape: shrewdness, troop
baboon: troop, flange, congress, tribe
bee: colony, grist, hum, swarm, hive, cluster
cat: clowder, clutter, pounce, cluster, colony, glorying, destruction (wild cats)
cheetah: coalition
chimpanzee: cartload
cricket: orchestra
elephant: herd, host, flock, parade, memory
orangutan: buffoonery
penguin: colony, rookery, parade, parcel
pig: drove, litter, drift, flock, hoggery, herd, sounder
pigeon: flight, loft, flock, dropping
pony: string
porcupine: prickle, family
snail: escargatoire, rout, walk
tortoise: creep

Illegal Pad

2011-01-04T18:09:00.000-08:00

I have been grateful the last couple days that I made the right choice on Sunday. We ventured to Fred Meyer and I picked up a notepad. Specifically the notepad I picked out is called a Legal Pad. Now why is it called a Legal Pad? Imagine if I picked the Illegal one, I would be on pins and needles until I destroyed it and that would just simply be a waste of a $1.39! I must say when you take the cover off, underneath is a nice faux wood grain cover and to this minute not one thing in the notepad, either legal or illegal.

NFL Playoffs

2011-01-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

Watching the Seattle Seahawks/St. Louis Rams game and thinking how pathetic it is that Seattle, with a losing season, will make the playoffs. Now this is if they win and I would suggest keeping Matt on the bench. Seattle would be the first team in NFL history to make the playoffs with a losing season. Now, I am pleased they have a chance but I feel bad for a team with a winning record that just happens to be in a division that has better teams, its not like they can choose their division, guess it's just luck of the draw.

With that I do hope the Seahawks make the playoffs and win the Superbowl and be the first losing team in NFL history to do it.

Three Picassos in Two Days

2010-12-31T06:21:00.000-08:00

I have had the pleasure of seeing three Picasso works in two days. One was the works of the great Pablo Picasso from 1881-1973, the other two were two individuals Picasso's in the works. Let me explain..............

First Picasso: My wife and I caught a short documentary on our public station here in Western Washington on the Picasso exhibit currently being shown at the Seattle Art Museum (SAM). As our interest was piqued, I went online to see ticket prices and such. Good deal for the opportunity to see his works, from what I understand the biggest collection ever exhibited in the United States. This collection was drawn from the Mussee National Picasso in Paris while they renovate. We both were amazed how much we enjoyed his earlier works versus the ones you see most of the time when Picasso is being spoken about, although odd at times, very enjoyable.

http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/exhibit/exhibitDetail.asp?eventID=18788

Second Picasso: Same day as the exhibit. A disgruntled former SAM employee stood outside of the museum very quiet holding a sign and fully uniformed with a close version of the uniform the SAM guards must wear. When I first went in I thought his sign said "SAM changed my life" thinking that wow here is a guy that appreciates what art has done in his life specifically the Seattle Art Museum. That wasn't what the sign read, it read "SAM ruined my life". Now my curiosity was on fire and had to find out this guy's story. He just happens to have a website and there he paints his own Picasso of how SAM has ruined his life, sent him into a mental state and has ruined his reputation. As any art piece everyone interprets a situation or scenery in their own way, this guy uses the sidewalk and Internet canvases. http://www.samhatesme.com/

Third Picasso: This one I am still in awe and disbelief. My wife and I ventured out to Southcenter Mall, Westfield Shopping Center for those that haven't been in the area long, to Macys. We parked up on the top floor of the new garage and began our journey to the center of the Earth, OK just to ground level but it felt like the length of journey. If any of you have been in the garage and have experienced how tight it is, you will know the setting. As we are winding down, there is a pretty nice pickup truck in front of us and we can see that he has misinterpreted the right hand turn around the post. I am thinking this guy is going to have to to back up as you can clearly see he will not make the corner, not his plan at all. He decides now is the time for his own Picasso moment to come out, he continues through the corner. The right hand rear quarter panel scrapes the lime green painted concrete post and he just keeps going. After the show was complete the aftermath or "his Picasso" was a rippled sheet metal design with brilliant reds and greens with a hint of modern works. As my wife and I are shocked and laughing in disbelief he heads to the next corner. Thank goodness this was outside to give him plenty of negotiating room, the front makes it no problem but here comes that tail of the truck that is following him so closely behind, not scraping a pole but driving over the curb and flowerbed. This guy missed this corner by a good three feet, no damage to the truck and the damage to the flowerbed will not be discovered until Spring when the sprinkler test will be in full bloom. I must say his art made an impression on me, mission accomplished.

Think You've Had a Bad Day?

2010-12-29T09:11:00.000-08:00

This poor pooch got his head stuck, reminds me for some reason like the cartoon Catdog!

http://www.comcast.net/video/doggone-trouble-pooch-stuck-in-wall/1714346509/Comcast/1714403289/

My Top 10 Running Tips

2010-12-28T14:18:00.000-08:00

My wife and I started running in August, there are many things I have learned since that nice SUNNY WARM day! Here are my top ten:

1. Enjoy nice sunny warm days. I shiver me timbers now when we go out for our jaunt after work.

2. Enjoy daylight. Darkness falls quickly and a deer in the headlights is a recipe for disaster if one is not careful. Now if I could run that fast all would be cool.

3. Asphalt running is so much better than concrete. Hence the darkness most of our run is now on the concrete sidewalk. You can really feel the float and relief on asphalt. Do they make shoes out of asphalt?

4. Taking more than 2 days off is not good at all, it takes the next run to get the wind back in my lungs sails.

5. More the merrier. We gained a friend in September, Lisa, who runs with us most of the time. Talk about some peer pressure, Julie and I could bag it easy some days but here comes Lisa..."ready to run". We both joyfully answer "Yes!"

6. Appearance is not everything. I have found out that when the cold weather hits, I don't care what I look like. I thought I would never run without matching, with sweat pants, stocking hat or a long sleeve shirt covering part of my mitts keeping them warm.

7. Watching what I eat and drink during the day. Not enough water or food will cause some quite uncomfortable issues. Water water water! No chips chips chips at work.

8. Go to the bathroom before you run or you will find yourself cutting your run short or ditching off into the woods. Ah, the relief.

9. Good shoes do make a difference. You need good support and make sure the socks that fit into the size 10's have only one hole, more the merrier does not apply here.

10. Measure your progress and keep pushing for more. You don't have to go out and run a 5k or marathon everyday, just 1-2 miles 3-4 times a week or as I like to refer to is as doing my 1-2-3-4's. I'm competitive so I have to measure progress to see how I am doing plus I can brag about how fast or how long, hmmmm.....that didn't sound right.

Enjoy your run, it's nice to get out and be in your own zone. Leave your phone at home, the world will survive for 30 minutes without you.

FREEZE!.........Put the Phone Down.

2010-08-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

I was pleasantly surprised and upset by the following event today.

As we were sitting at a stop light, by the way why isn't called a go light, on our way to Lowes I noticed a motorcycle cop to my left. I was admiring his BMW, yes BMW police bike and the light turned green and we were off to the races. It's amazing how well SOME people behave when the red and blue are around. Anyways, he made a quick jaunt to the right and jumped behind a white Honda Civic. Immediately I knew it was either a teenage girl, teenage boy or an old lady by the type of the car. She pulled briskly off into the Arby's parking lot to the right, window down and...............(drumroll).............a cell phone in her posses ion! A shocker I know, a dumb ass breaking the law and nailed. It is against the law for a reason, it has shown to cause accidents and hurt to others. Nobody is that important that you have to drive and text/talk on the cellphone. I hope she enjoys her $184 ticket. I hope she isn't late somewhere now because I'm sure she will make up the speed by breaking that law too.

I'm at a loss at how to get through to people that it is a dangerous and selfish act and think about others, if you want to mangle or kill yourself, do it to yourself not my family.

Why don't we come up with a 800 line that you can call into when you see a violator, just as we do with litterers? That would be cool, one too many of the calls and you will get a little fine. I have chalked up my share of litterers and feel much better reporting.

Q-Tips

2010-08-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's just me but anyone else out there wonder why they call them Q-Tips? Q-Tips is a name brand for a cotton swab but most people I know refer to all cotton swabs as such. Aspirin, Coke, Slurpee and the list could go on about name brands that pretty much brand the product. Over the years I have found many great uses for Q-Tips that include and not limited to cleaning ears of course, painting small things, cleaning the inside of my sonicare, dusting Barbie's artifacts (don't tell my daughter), cleaning the vents in the car, nail extensions, golf ball dimple cleaner and an all time favorite the ability to clean between the toes :)

Click here is you want to know why indeed they are called Q-Tips.

Jack Morris and Seattle Children's Hospital

2010-08-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

Attached is a link to a website following Jack Morris Jr. Recently out of work, he decided to walk home and raise money for Children's Hospital. He began his journey in Florida and will land at home in Washington State. His blog is quite humorous and educational. Enjoy and support Jack in his journey.

My Long Walk Home

Brotherly Love

2010-08-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Attached you will find a story that I read about this morning. Such a sad situation but there is a plan for us all and we just don't know when your time will be done. The brother that passed gave part of his liver so his brother could enjoy a longer life. Unfortunately he lost his life while recovering from the operation. I believe we all would do the same thing for a sibling, other family member or good friend. Some may even do it for a complete stranger. I thought about what I would do in the situation, not much hesitation in my decision. If I could give a piece my myself and extend or better someones life, I would in a minute. So, why don't donate a piece of my time to help someone in need? Guess I should think about things differently and make the time. Would you donate a piece of your liver to a loved one? A stranger? Do you donate a piece of your time to others?

Brotherly Love

Begging Someone to Steal

2010-01-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

While visiting the local Starbucks this morning this lady was begging someone to steal! What a moron.....here's the story.

Entering the door to our morning triage, we notice to the right in the comfy chairs one is swallowing a big purse with lots of good stuff hanging out. There is no owner in sight. As we approach the counter there's a lady that has got to be the owner, she is ordering her coffee and throwing a few gossips in there. As I'm thinking what a moron, I look over to the left at the "fixins" station and there's a cell phone and wallet unoccupied. I'm standing there thinking this lady is really oblivious to the cruel real world. Sure enough that is her pile of valuables. She picks em up and proceeds to the comfy chairs, yep, that big purse is hers as well.

If by chance lady you read my blog, this Schrammy is for you (local award that a local personality awards). I sure better not hear a complaint when someone steals your stuff, the world is just not that kind.

Kenya Solar Eclipse

2010-01-15T20:23:00.000-08:00

Thought this would be cool to share. Found on Comcast News.

Squirrels Can Be Dangerous

2010-01-10T06:29:00.000-08:00

In the movie Up! I am told that there is a dog that seems to lose focus whenever a squirrel is nearby. My friend refers to me this way when telling a story or joke and I'm sure you can see it in my writing. But, like the dog, I can get back on track and continue on my mission, now if you don't follow the track, I can't help you there.

All fun and games unless you encounter the dangerous squirrel people. The dangerous squirrel people are like the one I encountered the other day. I was traveling West up a 45 mph 3 lane road, 2 West and 1 East. I catch in my eye ahead some emergency lights coming East around the bend. At the same moment I see those lights I see the car in front of me with heavy lights and moving at an odd angle towards the shoulder. I soon realize we are not coming to a gradual pull over and stop but a slam on the brakes and see what happens stop.

As I observed the situation that almost caused me to slam into the car in front of me and me being a Hummer sandwich, it is apparent that this was all caused by the car just ahead of the one in front of me. When they saw the emergency lights, Wham!, they slammed on their brakes, not gradual, but s seat belt check stop. So this car (dog), panicked when they saw the lights (squirrel) and decided that it would probably be best to allow the medic an additional 6 feet immediately almost putting us (meaty bone) in a 3 car pile up.

It should be a gradual stop not panic, think about your actions and how they affect others. In this case we all survived without incident, although maybe the chain reaction caused cars further behind me issues? Don't know, just as that person would have never known if they affected our lives with their panic.

HIghly Profound Thought of the Day

2010-01-03T06:23:00.001-08:00

Do they make a Big Cooper or Giant Cooper?

and

You have to admit Charliz Theron looks good in one :)

Safe or Unsafe: That is the Question

2010-01-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

Last night while venturing home from a trip to the local food store AND Starbucks, the sun had already set, well if you can call it the sun but for this story it sounds better. The sun had set and jaywalking across the street, trouncing through the rain puddles that covered the glistening street, there is a lady and her dog. Knowing jaywalking isn't a crime, although it should be, I accept that she is legal and she even is safety vest equipped (wonder if they make safety snuggies?).

As I see her cross and catch the safety stripes I allow her to proceed as I brake. As I pass I come up a stop sign with a crosswalk about twenty feet from the jaywalking incident. I think to myself, this dumb ass goes through all the trouble to put the safety vest on and look ridiculous but is too damn lazy to continue up twenty feet and use the crosswalk. I also wonder why the dog didn't have a vest on, so selfish. On one hand she is trying to be safe and on the other she is not, I don't get it. I thought it was because crossing there was a shortcut and cutting her life would definitely be worth the forty feet she would have saved. But no, she had to go that way anyways, so she didn't really save any time or wear and tear of her Reeboks.

One could argue that she did save about a foot or two and you can take the angle she crossed and reference it against walking up and turning ninety degrees to access the crosswalk.

To validate my feelings, I looked over at my wife and said "what a dumb ass", she replied back with a silent nod and then squeaked out a "I know!".

Poor Tiger

2009-12-10T20:30:00.000-08:00

I just had to!

Tiger Woods wasn't seriously injured in the crash, but he's still below par.

What were Tiger Woods and his wife doing out at 2:30 in the morning? They went clubbing

Tiger Woods crashed into a fire hydrant and a tree. He couldn't decide between a wood and an iron.

Ping just offered Elin an endorsement contract for her own set of drivers; to be named Elin Woods..."clubs you can beat Tiger with."

Tiger just changed his nickname but still kept it in the cat family--his new name?: Cheetah

Tiger was driving an Escalade, can he blame the accident on his caddy?

Hello Mister Woods this is the On Star operator we have detected that an angry person has put a golf club through your window, we are contacting Nike for a new club.

Who among us doesn't hear a car crash and immediately grab the closest golf club we can find??!!

Tiger's new movie: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Hydrant.

Tiger Woods owns lots of expensive cars. Now he has a hole in one.

Poor choice; he should have gone with the driver.

What’s the difference between Santa Claus and Tiger? Santa stops at three Ho’s.

Little Smokies

2009-12-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder if they make big smokies to compliment their buddies the little smokies? Would a big smokey be a hot dog or a bratwurst? I can accept a hot dog being the ever elusive big Smokey but then that poses the question.......why aren't little smokies called little hot dogs? They are good either way you slice it but I can't say that regular dogs are that tasty, probably just taste like chicken.

Stay tuned for the the reasoning behind the phrase "it's colder than a witches tit" which I can tell you if I had a witches tit it would be frozen today!

Hole in One

2009-11-28T18:12:00.000-08:00

Friday November 27, 2009 marks the day I achieved a feat I thought I would never do. There are many arguments of what the odds are to achieve such a feat. I have been golfing for about 28 years and have seen it once before seeing my own. According to holeinoneinsurance.com, the odds are 12,500 to 1.

I was invited to this tournament by my sales rep with Schneider, Jeff Clark. In our 4 person scramble team was his friend Tom Mitchell and my friend Gary Boersma. We were playing the 155 yard 6Th hole at Oakbrook Country Club. I'm happy to say it was a clean shot contrary to others believing that I hit a cart path, went under a windmill and through a clowns mouth.

The rest of the day was spent on cloud 9, weather great and good friendship. The only dull moment hit me on my way home. I wanted to grab my cell phone and call my dad to share the news. I was reminded by someone else he saw it happen from a much higher perch.

The picture was taken just after I picked my ball out of the cup. You can see the smile from ear to ear and man those ears are getting big! (maybe not, the picture is so small but mark my words it was dumbo to dumbo)

Water Left Standing

2009-07-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

A guy at work had a terrible experience this last week. Long story short the city had caused an issue with the water system in his neighborhood which cause major back flow issues in his upstairs bathroom. He said when they finally got the water shutoff, there was 3 inches of water standing in the bathroom and hallway! I'm sure it wasn't the cleanest water, yuk!

So of course my focus in this story was the question........."does water really stand?" or "does water lay down?" Maybe water actually sits down? I can't even ask the water what they are doing, so frustrating. Of course when I go to ask.com they just giving me hints on how to make my dog sit or lay, I don't even own a dog.

Am I the only one that would like this answered?

5 Chapters!

2009-07-11T07:15:00.000-07:00

Oh man, what a week, my assignments this week are to read 5 chapters, post my two answers on the discussion board, and write a financial analysis paper no less than 1200 words. My eyes are bugged out from reading the text although interesting reading you can only read so much on finances. I tell you what when I'm done with this class I could go work work for Southwest Airlines in any position I want, OK maybe not a pilot, but dang close. I chose Southwest as my publicly traded company of choice and they will remain my choice until the class is finished.

So far so good, max score on 2 papers and a quiz, we'll see what this next week brings. Off to read!

3 days down.........

2009-07-01T21:01:00.000-07:00

Not too bad yet plus I was able to fit my Tuesday golf. Now granted it's the first week and I am only taking one class but I have to have golf! Wonder if they have golf classes in college, now that would be cool but expensive lessons.

Online course seems pretty cool, basically 3 parts of the learning process. Reading the text, posting and responding in the discussion groups (hopefully I will be able to keep some of my opinions to myself or I could find angry classmates), and written papers each week due by midnight the following Wednesday. Looks like this weekend will be spent a bit on the paper.

Sunday Night and Ready to Go

2009-06-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

My daughter, her boyfriend, brother in law, nephew and in laws just left after a nice dinner out on the back patio.

My daughter asked if I was excited for my first day of school, she finds this funny since she is in college as well. My wife told her that she bought me a new lunch pail, of course Chelsea was elated and responded "REALLY!" cool! Lol, no silly I'm doing it online probably over my plate of dinner some nights.

First day will be fun, I work 0430am-500pm tomorrow then off to home to log onto my first class. I have started reading my text book so hopefully that will start me off ahead of the game. My luck the instructor will want the first 5 chapters read by Tuesday but we'll see.

Ok, off to bed, beauty rest needed for this guy, a lot of it.

Most Expensive Books in the World

2009-06-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

Holy Moly, can't believe how much books are for school, I forgot about that part. Of course I am quite frugal at times so to get over the sticker shock I had to work it.

I first found the book I needed for my class was $109.00! I then looked at used, $81.00! I then pulled the ISBN # and looked on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Half.com and various of sites you can purchase books. Guess what, the book I need is "custom" to Bellevue College so I was stuck?

Nope, I decided to surf the student discussion boards and there it was the book I needed for $40 cash! My only concern was the post was a few months old but luckily for me the book was still available. I met the owner at BC and forked over the cash and I am a happier person.

My total invested time was approximately 2 hours so saving at least $60 that gives me a 2nd job at $30 an hour, not bad.

Off to golf, sunny Friday, the moons are aligned :)

Almost 40 and back to School....am I crazy?

2009-06-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

Most of my friends and family don't know but I start Summer semester at Bellevue College on Monday June 29. I am excited and prep myself daily for the start back up on my AA in Business. I have had about a 20 year hiatus, I think there are no excuses left! Long term my classes are transferable to UW and/or EWU. I will pursue my bachelors in either Business or Industrial Engineering, I have time to decide which way I go. This is a personal drive plus I always look at ways to get the upper hand on my generation if heaven forbid I need or want to change careers.

I will be starting out slow with one class Summer and Fall semester. If all goes well I will jump up to 2 classes for Winter 2010.

Wish me luck!

Good Cell Tips!

2009-05-24T06:26:00.000-07:00

5 Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do

For all the folks with cell phones. (This should be printed and kept in your car, purse, and wallet. Good information to have with you.) There are a few things that can be done in times of grave
emergencies. Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival. Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST
Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find Yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an Emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to Establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.

SECOND
Ha ve you locked your keys in the car?
Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone: If you lock your keys=2 0In the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot >From your car door and have20the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
Editor's Note : It works fine! We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a cell phone!'

THIRD
Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell20battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell phone will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell phone next time.

FOURTH
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following Digits on your phone: *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.
If your phone gets stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
And Finally.....

FIFTH
Free Directory Service for Cells
Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial: (800)FREE411, or (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now.

Dump Truck in NO Rush Hour

2009-05-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Why do dump trucks decide to move rock in the middle of rush in town? 70' of duel dump trailers in bumper to bumper traffic screwing up every turn lane in town. You have to follow so close that you can't see the traffic light, if you don't you will lose spot after spot. To top it off you run a red light through a camera intersection.

First off for the driver it has to be a pain in the butt for the driver to shift up shift down shift up shift down shift up...you get the picture.

Second, talk about screwing up traffic and how to piss drivers off trying to get home. Driver probably doesn't care (other than the spastic shifting), he could be paid by the hour.

Glad I only live 7 miles from work!

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

2009-05-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

My wife and I watched The Curious Case of Benjamin Button this last weekend. I was able to survive due to watching half on Saturday night and the remainder on Sunday. She doesn't know until she reads this that I did sleep partly through the 1st half :)

I struggle with "stories", I much prefer a movie based upon actual facts. Maybe curl up next to the fire with a good documentary on whale watching would be divine. The way you can tell if I am interested is whether or not my eyelids are open at the end of the movie. I once passed out to Beauty and the Beast in the theater before there was a beauty or a beast.

Onto the button movie....... Not a bad movie but I do have an issue that maybe someone could shed some light on?

When Benjamin was born, he was an old aged baby but as he got younger he became smaller in frame again. Why? If that was the case then wouldn't he have been born a 5' 8" foot old man, not a 20" old man? Did they not think about that? Was it on purpose and means something?

To me it is a "curious" issue!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day and if you were ever curious how Mother's Day was started, here is the history behind it. I hope you have or had a nice day!

In the United States, Mother's Day experienced a series of false starts before eventually transitioning into the "Hallmark" holiday that we celebrate today. In 1858, Anna Reeves Jarvis was the first woman to hold an official celebration of mothers, when in her home state of West Virginia, she instituted Mothers' Work Day to raise awareness about local sanitation issues. During the Civil War, she expanded the scope of Mothers' Work Day to include sanitary conditions on both sides of the battlefield.

Meanwhile Julia Ward Howe, author of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic," attempted to institute a national celebration of mothers that honored women's inclinations toward peace (rather than cleanliness). In 1872, she initiated and promoted a Mother's Day for Peace, to be held on June 2, which was celebrated the following year by women in 18 cities across America. The holiday continued to be honored by Bostonian women for another decade, but eventually phased out after Howe stopped underwriting the cost of the celebrations.

Then in 1905, Anna Reeves Jarvis passed away and her daughter, Anna Jarvis, took up her mother's torch. Anna swore on her mother's gravesite that she would realize her lifelong dream of creating a national day to honor mothers. In 1907, Anna launched her campaign by handing out white carnations to congregants at her mother's church in Grafton, West Virginia. In 1908, her mother's church acquiesced to Anna's request to hold a special Sunday service in honor of mothers - a tradition that spread the very next year to churches in 46 states. In 1909, Anna left her job and dedicated herself to a full-time letter-writing campaign, imploring politicians, clergymen and civic leaders to institute a national day for mothers.

In 1912, Jarvis' efforts met with success: Her home state of West Virginia adopted an official Mother's Day; two years later, the U.S. Congress passed a Joint Resolution, signed by President Wilson, establishing a national Mother's Day emphasizing the role of women in their families - and not, like Julia Ward Howe's campaign, in the public arena. Ever since, Mother's Day has been celebrated by Americans on the second Sunday in May.

Perhaps the country's greatest proponent of motherhood, Anna Jarvis ironically never had children of her own. Yet that didn't stop her from making the celebration of Mother's Day her lifelong mission. In fact, as the holiday took on a life of its own, Jarvis expressed frequent dismay over its growing commercialization. "I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit," she is quoted as saying.

My Dad's Birthday May 7th.......

2009-05-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Not sure if I can say that I believe there are signs that are given to you from loved ones that have passed away but I will share with you what happened to me that was a comfort at a needed time.

My Father would have turned 59 on May 7th, 2009. He passed away from Cancer last November so this being his first birthday since his passing, it weighed heavily on me.

I rarely remember my dreams but on my Father's birthday I was dreaming about hanging around with my Dad running a few errands, nothing significant but just being buds. I was awoken from that dream at 0115am to the sound of heavy rain. I ventured to the bathroom, dazed, as I rarely wake up at this time. With each step I took the rain advance stronger and stronger until hail began to pound the skylight. I had the warmest feeling that my Dad was letting me know he was watching over and this was his way of showing me.

I went back to bed, fell asleep after a few thoughts and didn't remember any other dreams that night.

Chip Off the Blockhead

2009-05-02T06:54:00.000-07:00

My son says things that probably only he and I would think of or notice. I did not pick up what he just pointed out to me. Our tv station call letters are as follows:

2 NWCN

4 KOMO

5 KING

6 KONG

7 KIRO

He says you ever notice how channel 5 and 6 are in order and spell out KingKong? Wonder if that was planned? Or did by some weird chance it just worked out that way? Pretty cool and clever!

Flock of Words?

2009-04-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

Ever watch birds fly? I'm guessing you have said yes unless you are a gopher. I am always amazed by the V pattern a flock makes, it's incredible how they form and cut the air with the formation. What baffles me is the loner bird flying by himself, why is he not with the flock? Does he have a flock? Is it a special group? Are flocks represented by the Union and loners are not?

My theory is that it's not a formation "v", it's a letter V, duh! Other flocks form a "n" but they are flying backwards. Some flocks form a "w" or "m" but they are just flying apart from each. Makes sense to me because now the loners fit in. They are the periods to the sentence that is being put together in this big sky. Ten birds in a row..........Two birds make a colon and so on.

Now that makes sense to me, if it makes sense to you then something is definitely wrong with you :)

Guest post...

2009-04-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

Since Michel has failed to post to his blog for the past month, I have hi-jacked it to make it worth your efforts for stopping by for a visit.

I am Michel's wife.

I have my own blog that I post to regularly, if you would like to visit it you can go here.

I'm not witty nor as funny as my husband.

I find him downright hilarious most days.

Life with Michel is definitely interesting.

He comes up with thought provoking questions everyday.

Debating with him is maddening, as he will play devil's advocate on any topic even if he agrees with what you are saying. He will beat that horse until you walk away frustrated beyond belief.

He certainly keeps me on my toes and is the most kind hearted person I know.

Today he endured shoe shopping with me and a 'quick' trip upstairs to the ladies department for a few try ons. He sat so patiently on the sofa by the waiting room.

I rewarded him with lunch out. =)

He is wanting a iphone, something we 'gave' him as a Father's day gift last year.

We never did get one when they came out with the new 3G.

Today we stopped into the AT&T store to see if we could get him one, he's not eligible for the discounted price until 7/7/09. Bummer!

When we returned home I tried to work my magic over the phone with Norman, but he wasn't playing nice. So, since we refuse to pay $200 more for the damn phone, we will wait until 7.7.09 and get it for the discounted price.

He will be happy. He will hopefully post more to his blog as well given that he'll be able to do it from his phone as well as any of the various computers scattered throughout the house!

The photo, one of many self portraits that he has taken of himself over the years.

I'm sure he'll be thrilled to see this one posted here!

Today's the Day

2009-02-28T19:50:00.001-08:00

I have started to take care of myself better. I am on a 5 week plan to get myself the level to run a 5k without dying at the finish line! My first day is just a 20 minute walk, which was done briskly and topped off with another 20 of leisure walk while carrying my 220 calorie drink!

I used to run quite a bit but have failed to get back out there. I am not in a position I need to lose weight but I know I need to get the heart pumping a bit more and watch what I eat.

To monitor what I am eating, I am using a free online program called sparkpeople. First day out of the shoot I was over on caloric intake and my fats.

Sad But Nice Story

2009-02-21T08:56:00.001-08:00

Check this story out. So sad and so young. Just shows it can happen to anyone. I love her committment to her boys and their future.

http://www.komonews.com/news/national/39910807.html

Is it OK to Swallow Gum?

2009-02-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder? I decided to look it up after telling my son it was not ok. Well, fat chance I tell him that he was right, lol! Here is a response that I found to that question:

Dear Concerned,
While there are many urban legends about the detrimental effects of swallowing gum, your friend's situation is probably not as sticky. Ingested chewing gum will not wrap itself around your vital organs or remain in your stomach for years on end. Although gum is certainly not meant to be swallowed, the body usually eliminates it in the same amount of time it takes to expel other waste.
Occasionally, if several pieces of gum are swallowed within a short period of time, hard masses of indigestible material known as bezoars, may form in the chewer's intestine or stomach. Some people are more predisposed to developing bezoars than others. If your friend is experiencing stomachaches, he may want to meet with a health care provider who can determine if there is indeed a mass lodged in his insides, and if necessary, how it can be removed.
You may also want to ask your friend why he keeps swallowing gum. Perhaps he does it when he’s actually hungry and wants something in his stomach, or maybe he does it when he can’t find a place to throw his gum away. Maybe when you're with him, you can offer him some scrap paper for him to spit his gum into or tell him to carry around snacks that can temporarily curb his hunger.
Here's to healthy and "Carefree" gum chewing!

Twinkle Twinkle Little Alphabet

2009-02-11T19:15:00.000-08:00

Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?

Why did you just try singing the two songs above?

Dogs Are Great

2009-02-09T19:17:00.000-08:00

Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride, he sticks his head out the window? Cats do not like either, trust me!

and

Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? Aren't they both dogs?

Your Thoughts For Toast?

2009-02-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder?

Why do you have to "put your two cents in"... but it's only a "penny for your thoughts"? Where's that extra penny going to?

or

Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp, which no decent human being would eat ?

Double Knotted Shoes Laces

2009-01-11T09:53:00.000-08:00

I have been neglecting my blog for that damn addicting Facebook! Here's a link to my latest group creation, if interested in viewing it is on Facebook and you want more of my mind (really wonder why) then join Facebook and request to be my friend and you will access to what I publicly want to admit from my scattered bean :)

http://www.new.facebook.com/groups.php?ref=sb#/group.php?gid=48372441359

Bike Helmets Are.............

2008-12-13T21:03:00.000-08:00

still annoying me. Not only a law that nobody seems to follow, ok exaggeration, 90%. Now I am noticing about 1/2 of the 10% don't buckle the strap that holds the helmet on the head. What's the point? Do they expect when they are going down they can quickly buckle er up? Or maybe they are hoping as they come crashing down head first on the street their noggin would just magically land within the shell? Please someone tell me a good reason not buckle it up.

If you don't buckle up then you're a knuckle head :)

Mt. Rainier

2008-12-06T07:52:00.000-08:00

For those of you that don't live in the Northwest or those that do that missed it. Check out this photo from yesterday 12-5-08.

Not So Funnel

2008-12-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

How fun is funnel when it doesn't work. I was cleaning up and transferring the spaghetti sauce to a jar. I thought with all my wisdom, get a funnel to make a clean transition. Well that was funnel at all! sauce was too thick and clogged up the whole mess. I ended up with a bigger mess than I would have by just using the spoon and scooping.

So now is this thing called a notfunnel? unfunnel? ohcrapple? thatwasdummel?

This is why I am not aloud to cook, stick to dishes :(

Vanity Plates

2008-11-29T06:56:00.000-08:00

Isn't it funny when you see a vanity plate with the actually make and model of the car? I can under have the year such as "06 BMW". But to have to have "BMW"? We already know what type of car it is by symbol or simply FORD on a FORD truck. Couldn't you just have a plate that says "MAN N CAR", this would let everyone know that I am a man in the car just in case they had any doubt, same idea to point out the obvious (no comments necessary ;)).

Ever get stumped on a vanity plate? Here's a website to help you out:

http://www-chaos.umd.edu/misc/plates.html

Lie Of The Day

2008-11-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

This attached story is ridiculous and can't believe it made to the "news". The girls messed up and did something stupid but then again they are kids. This time they made a big mistake and they best lick their wounds and take their discipline.

It appears to me that they sent nude photos of themselves to boyfriends then they "accidentally" TWICE got sent to other Bothell students. Don't lie to us, bullshit, that doesn't happen accidentally, those kids know those cellphones better than the back of their hand. Side note, where did that saying come from, how many of you know the back of your hand? I cannot stand people that lie so blatantly and expect us to believe it.

I bet they didn't even get their phones taken away. Anyways, here's the story if interested.

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/34931259.html#idc-container

and.............even adults are careless with nude photos of themselves. I must be odd, I just don't take nude photos of myself, maybe I don't get drunk enough..........here's the story for this one.

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-odd/20081123/ODD.Nude.Photos.McDonald_s/

Don't Run With Scissors!

2008-11-20T19:12:00.000-08:00

I heard something today that makes or doesn't make sense to me but never thought of it before. In school does anyone remember the teacher putting away the sharp scissors so nobody would hurt themselves? They would make sure we were protected but had no problem leaving that big ol paper cutter in the back ready to chop everything that got in it's path. Talk about a big blade that can do some damage, why wasn't that bad boy locked up?

Now take it to another level, same scissors.......remember no running with scissors in your hand? Makes sense, running and tripping with those babies in your hands can cause some issues. Here's the catch, remember in gym class climbing that big rope to the ceiling? Guess what happens when you reach the top?....your dead tired and barely hanging on. The only thing below to save you if you fall is a 1 inch mat. Maybe if you had scissors in your hands, you wouldn't have to climb that rope?

What's the logic?

Missing My Father

2008-11-08T06:12:00.000-08:00

My Father passed away on Thursday November 6, 2008. I was privileged and honored to be by his side for his final breath. I know he was at peace and out of pain. He lived his life to the fullest all the way to the day he was admitted to the hospital on Monday October 13, 2008.

He leaves behind so many family and friends that he once physically cared and watched over each day, now he will do that in spirit. Beloved family to include his loving wife Jeanie, his Mother Bettie, Sisters Diana, Paula, Connie, Melinda, Nita and Trina. Children, Michel, Michelle, Bonnie and Jennifer. Grandchildren Jared, Chelsea, Bailey, Tyler, Cameron, Savannah, Caden, Cody and Max. Friends and other Family that are too many to count and list. He was surrounded many loving people.

My Father was my rock. He guided me through the good and bad times. He was always there for me when I needed him and never hesitated to offer me advice, give me direction, help me, spend time with me, care for me. I cannot think of a time he did not support me. Could he have been a better role model at times, yes, but we can honestly all say that about ourselves or other loved ones. Whether it was mentoring me in a good way or bad way he was continuously teaching me, it was up to me to understand the lesson that was being taught.

November 6th is a sad day for me and the hardest day I have had in my life. It really makes you reflect back on all the things you take for granted in life. I still get up at 6am and await his call or have the ability to give him a call. The days are empty right now with a huge void that has never been there in my 39 years of existence. I will prevail and make it through a better person, that is what my Father taught me.

He is in a better place now and with his maker. He will be watching over all of us so we need to make him proud. Doesn't mean we have to like pork n beans and hamburger though!

The Left Choice

2008-11-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

I must confess this is the first time I have voted for a democrat for President. I pondered back and forth but finally was at peace in mind of voting with my conscious. As most of my close friends know I am generally red and struggle with many democratic viewpoints but this choice is the right choice for our Country. Obama brings a spark and a fresh perspective that we desperately needed. I applaud a well ran campaign and if that is any indication of what type of leadership he will provide for us, I'm excited. We have just witnessed history made and great movement in unifying the great people of the United States. McCain's speech was very respectful and very professional, kudos to him in showing what a great man and leader he is in his own right. And WOW, what a blowout, felt like a Seahawks game!

Appetizer Dash

2008-11-03T20:13:00.000-08:00

Ever find yourself eating an appetizer that you are sharing fast so you get at least 1/2 of the pressert? If not, I do and never realized it. I want to make sure I get my fair share, if I let my guard down or sip a little too much beer, my dinner mate will have a chance to get more. I can't let that happen! Nachos are the toughest, most of that depends picking the right chip, somewhat like tiddly winks, pick the right ones to victory. Take a look at the pile and see the inter webbing of cheese then pull your selected chip from the pile ever so slowly. Caution though, too slow will let your dinner mate pounce on more chips. Quality before quantity but find the happy medium.

Palin Out Sorenson In

2008-11-01T20:46:00.000-07:00

New running mate for McCain? I am off Palin, I held out hope as long as I can but I can't support her bs and small town mentality. This guy takes the cake though, see what 6 beers and dirty tires will do?

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/33677524.html

Cool Quote

2008-10-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

On the way to the hospital to visit Dad, my wife and I saw a cool quote on the back of a car that I thought would be neat to share.

"Don't drive faster than your angels can fly"

Hope the angels are helping my Dad through his tough fight over the next few days, I know he doesn't drive that fast!

Obama Odominant

2008-10-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, that's it, Colin Powell has endorsed Obama, say goodnight McCain. That is just enough to put it over the top, now we just wait and see if Obama can stay cool and not blow it. All I can say is let's let Obama put his money where his mouth is. He has made a lot of promises, let's just hope he can follow through. We are in for a interesting 4 years but hopefully for all we can get our troops home safely and get this Country back in dominant gear.

This does not mean I will vote democrat though!

Quotes of Thought 10/19/2008

2008-10-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.
Helen Keller (1880 - 1968)

With the unfortunate events in our life as of late it brought me pure joy to see the pure joy on my wife's face last night as we attended the Celine Dion concert. I purchased the tickets last year and presented them as Julie's Christmas present so she has been waiting 10 months to see one of her favorite performers.

I must say I did enjoy myself but I'm sure our faces had total different visions when Celine walked out onto the stage. Mine I'm sure was "this is cool" and "my ass hurts sitting on this bench" but the joy in Julie's face was worth the wait and worth the sore rump!

We will need to be be brave and patient for my father over the next few months but there always is time for the joy in the world.

Quote of Thought 10/17/2008

2008-10-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.
John Lennon (1940 - 1980), "Beautiful Boy"

One of my favorite songs and quotes. I got a life reality check today when I found out my father has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Life is so short and while we are all wrapped up making plans in our own worlds, life goes on around us and before you know it there are so many years you wish you had back. I am blessed to have spent and will spend much time with my father and this little curve ball is something that we will have to deal with together. I expect my father to hit this curve out of the park just as he did as a young man. He is strong and persistent and will not let it get him down. I will be there to help him through it.

Cherish every minute with your loves ones.

Quote of Thought 10/14/2008

2008-10-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

Be entirely tolerant or not at all; follow the good path or the evil one. To stand at the crossroads requires more strength than you possess.
Heinrich Heine (1797 - 1856)

Tolerance, oh boy, real tough lately. How would you like to come to work everyday called names, shouted at and witness your friends (some are not friends anymore) stand out on a strike line and not know what they are striking about? Following a leader out there that is just filling them full of BS and walking them to the gauntlet. I can't say anything, just have to just smile and drive on by.

Quote of Thought 10/10/2008

2008-10-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

Don't knock the weather. If it didn't change once in a while, nine out of ten people couldn't start a conversation.
Kin Hubbard (1868 - 1930)

How fitting I thought and funny. Yesterday the weather was blustery and today the sunshine is out with a little nip in the air. I can bet 9 out of 10 is not a stretch, think about how people you hear and meet talk about the weather. If it was all the same, no point needed, probably talk about something about your hair or clothes. I always like to ask who are you and what do you want? Just kidding, sounds tough though.

AIG = Am I a Goose?

2008-10-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

The following link demonstrates a system of financial unaccountability and abuse of good hardworking people. Let's just keep giving money irresponsible greed mongers. Who would have paid for the "retreat" that was planned months ahead of time. If they were in such "dire straights", shouldn't this $200k plus event been cancelled weeks ago? Bunch of BS while us little guys are just happy to have a few extra bucks for a movie and dinner. Where does it end? Catch 22, if you don't bail these asses out everyone suffers. What about the responsible people, do they get any reward for owning up to their responsibilities?

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-general/20081008/NEWS-US-AIG-RETREAT/

Quote of Thought-10/8/2008

2008-10-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

One must care about a world one will not see.

Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) British logician and philosopher.

Frustration brings this one upon us today. Why don't my kids, 13 and 19 years old, understand that they too hold responsibilities in the house? They live in this house and don't lift a finger to help out. They have no problem lifting 10 little fingers to grab food out of the pantry and refrigerator! Guess they don't see the world that is around them only the cellphone, TV or junk food in front of their eyes.

Love my kids but they are sponges with a heart.

Quote of Thought-10/7/2008

2008-10-07T20:29:00.001-07:00

The single best augury is to fight for one's country.
Homer, The IliadGreek epic poet (800 BC - 700 BC)

While at dinner tonight with my lovely wife, a soldier was sitting at the bar waiting for his take out food. I had this sudden urge to buy his dinner or just shake his hand in thanks. What held me back was whether or not I would offend him. I still question if that would offend or compliment a soldier. It does not matter what he has or has not done, I wanted to show my thanks for fighting for my freedom and my country. I came across this quote and thought this sums up my day of gratitude. We don't know what the unforeseen future holds so we have to appreciate what our soldiers have fought for what we enjoy now, the present.

Quote of Thought 10/6/2008

2008-10-06T19:32:00.001-07:00

The beginning of knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand.
Frank Herbert (1920 - 1986)

This sums up activities of work as of late. I just don't get why people don't look at the facts and gain the knowledge to make decisions that will affect your life. Step back and look at the facts, they will lead you to the knowledge to get you straight.

Smart sheep don't follow the flock off the cliff.

Quote of Thought 10/6/08

2008-10-06T19:32:00.000-07:00

Quote of Thought-10/5/2008

2008-10-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.
Wayne Gretzky (1961 - )

I relate this quote to a fun hockey game my son and I attended last night. My buddy Larry invited my wife and I but as my wife had a busy day, Bailey and I went. This was my son's first hockey game and he really enjoyed it.

This quote pertains to the actions of the young players, most are under 20 years old. They were always setting up to "where the puck was going to be" and was successful in their first win of the year.

Blog Posting will be Very Limited

2008-09-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Due to the members at my Company going on strike last Monday, I will have not much time at all to be online. Most of what I would have to blog about lately would probably be not very nice at all and you all don't need to hear the crap that I deal with on a daily basis right now.

Flashers in the Ballpark

2008-09-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

In a conversation with a friend at work we were talking about his trip to New York to watch a couple Yankees games. Derrick Jeter was going for the record breaking number of hits in Yankee Stadium and the flashbulbs were going off.

What I found funny is we were laughing about the fact that people have their flashes on. Nothing sounds too unusual at this point, huh? Think about it the flash lights up the immediate area not an image 100+ feet away. I never thought of it but the flashes make no difference at all. Now I don't claim to know much about photography but it seems like there would no advantage to the flash at this point. It probably effects the photo in a negative way, gives a false sense of the image being closer and actually lighting up the immediate area making the image actually darker than it would be with no flash.

Any pros out there that can straighten me out or is this a correct assumption.

Red Robin Clap Crap

2008-09-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

I have had it with that dumb ass Happy Happy Birthday song at Red Robin! Maybe it's just me but it drives me nuts. I think it may be that all the "singers" are amped up on Redbull and Skittles? Talk about yelling a verse and are they really that excited to sing happy birthday to some snot nosed 8 year old? At the time they are doing this I'm sure my burger is sitting back there melting under a heat lamp. That's ok, I usually have my hefe in my hand ready to guzzle when the screeching starts.

I'm not really that much of a humbug but it's just annoying. Each time I go I witness at least 2 of these massacres. Is there really that many people out there having birthdays at Red Robin? Maybe they are going for a free dessert, I personally haven't done anything like that :)

Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy........ringing in my ears.

Did She Get Married?

2008-09-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

I could have sworn Swiss Miss got married. Box still says she didn't, weird?

Hair you go

2008-09-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

While drying my hair this morning (I know many are thinking what hair but I do have a few left) I was wondering why we call the device a hair drying when indeed it dries many hairs? Would be silly to by a device to just work on one hair at a time. Why do we call it a head of hair? Side track: my hairs take 1 minute and 45 seconds to dry. I'm thinking it will be less and less as I get older due to the expanding brain capacity that will be needed.

Speaking of hairs, why can we call a rabbit a hare but when referring to many we use rabbits or a herd? Hares is actually a word and can be used but I can't say I have heard it used. Did you know rabbity is a word? I think that will be a new one to describe my son.

Walgreens Makes You Work for $5

2008-09-12T07:37:00.000-07:00

I always wondered how this would work at Walgreens. I am jealous of the story I just read, why couldn't I have been the one to get into this tangled mess? Please read below, I think this person may be a Mind of Michel groupie?

the sign on their cash registers that say "$5 if we fail to issue you a receipt."has anyone got the $5?and how exactly do you interpret this? (seems pretty cut and dry to me)so (obviously) i experienced this at walgreens today. i bought something for the free rebate so i really did need my receipt. and i usually check before i leave the store, but of course this one time i forgot and wouldn't you know it, got home and didn't have it. so i went back. they took it out of the trash, uncrumpled it, gave it to me and then i pointed at the sign and asked for my $5.(i mean, first of all they have the policy, so they should be offering it to me, and secondly, i have been secretly waiting for them to forget, lol).well a huge discussion ensued and she was fighting every step of the way - this is the head manager im dealing with. she was like, well, thats for when a receipt doesn't actually print out, or if we had emptied the trash and it was gone, but you have your receipt now so you were ISSUED your receipt, lol..so, then she excuses herself for a minute without telling me why, and goes to her office and actually reviews the tape of my purchase, comes back and tells me i was in such a hurry to leave that i didnt give the clerk a chance to give me my receipt, lol (wow, right?)so it finally took me to say, you know, semantics aside, i cant believe you would waste your time over $5, as well as risk my future business. and then she said, well I'll give you the $5 but...." and THEN she gave me a gift card instead of the $5 which the sign says (it doesn't say $5 gift card). and if that wasnt enough, there was even another interwoven issue - when i returned to the store, i went ahead and returned something else i had (because i wasnt coming from home on my first trip to do it then) so she was trying to say i wasn't forced to come back JUST for my receipt since i came with a return, so i shouldnt be entitle to the $5. i honestly thought they would just agree, open up the register and give me $5... but once i saw i had to earn it, well, i did... not only am i not going back, but i am writing a letter to corporate about this - both about my ordeal and the , apparent, misleading nature of the sign...

Buffet Anyone?

2008-09-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know but I have issues with food being left out for much time at all. Take a buffet for instance. Ever watch people at a buffet? Most hover over the food and contemplate what they want to load up on their saucer. Back to my problems after I point out:

how funny it is to see people spend so much time deciding on what to load then heading back to their table. It's a buffet! You can return as many times as you want. It would do you good to get a little exercise making an extra trip or two PLUS you can eat more as you burn energy going back and forth. Don't worry about time, you will gain that back by not spending so much time pondering you decisions.

Anyways, my issues are the amount of breathing and talking that goes on over my potential meal. There are full on conversations going on while they choose their round one feast. Think about all the spit that flies out. Think about all the food particles (especially if they back after round one) that fly out of their mouth. As you load up, you are sharing the food they have already crunched up and carrier back from their table. I'm getting sick just thinking about it.

Now start to think all the air particles and what is flying around. Just take a look at the air quality when a ray of sunshine comes into the room. I do realize that when you breath in you are taking in these same particles.

One last comment about something I read this morning. There is a restaurant that has now starting charging customers $2.00 for food left on their plate at buffets. It's simple take only what you will eat, if not you will be charged. This is their attempt to reduce the amount of food waste. Now think of this........if they don't want food waste, what do you think they do with all that food left over after the end of the day left on the buffet table? You got it, I can bet that it goes back into the smorgasbord the next day!

McCain's Pal

2008-08-31T07:18:00.000-07:00

I like the selection by McCain to offer Palin the VP spot. I don't necessarily think it is a tit for tat choice but a choice that well rounds the Republican ticket. McCain is old we all know that, he needed to get a young face in there to appeal to the younger voters. Of course picking a female will gain him some votes as well. I think Sarah is more valuable then some (democrats) are giving her credit for. Right now we need to get a handle on our energy resources and remain focused on our family values at the same time protecting the environment. I think Sarah may be that soft rounded approach that John and we need. Here's a little bio on Pal:

Under her leadership, Alaska invested $5 billion in state savings, overhauled education funding, and implemented the Senior Benefits Program that provides support for low-income older Alaskans. She created Alaska’s Petroleum Systems Integrity Office to provide oversight and maintenance of oil and gas equipment, facilities and infrastructure, and the Climate Change Subcabinet to prepare a climate change strategy for Alaska.During her first legislative session, Governor Palin’s administration passed two major pieces of legislation – an overhaul of the state’s ethics laws and a competitive process to construct a gas pipeline.Governor Palin is chair of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, a multi-state government agency that promotes the conservation and efficient recovery of domestic oil and natural gas resources while protecting health, safety and the environment. She was recently named chair of the National Governors Association (NGA) Natural Resources Committee, which is charged with pursuing legislation to ensure state needs are considered as federal policy is formulated in the areas of agriculture, energy, environmental protection and natural resource management. Prior to being named to this position, she served as co-chair of this committee

Granted, Alaska was in need of leadership when she stepped in but at least she has some balls to take on the big boys and get the job done. I don't believe McCain made his choice on the "way the old boys used to do it" where you get a beauty queen in there to sway some votes. Hopefully people will do a little research.

Also, Corey was a correct, Tina Fey is a dead ringer and soon will be back to SNL I'm sure! How could we go wrong?

Nailconfusion

2008-08-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

So are they finger nails, thumb nails, pinky nails? Do they have dual names? Should I say "I''m going to clip my fingers nails" or should I say "I'm going to clip my finger nails, thumb nails and pinky nail"? Toe nails have a confusion in themselves, you have the big toe and the pinky toe. Where did the word "pinky" come from?

All I know is they keep growing and most of my hair doesn't, just unfair, I don't even want long nails.

I know I'm getting old when.......I

2008-08-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

go to the movie and teenagers are obnoxious. The last two times I have been to the movie with my son Bailey I have ended up telling some group to either be quiet or get off the phone.

1st time:

2 boys come in 15 minutes late and sit a couple seats away from me. They are talking a bit but that isn't bugging me yet. The kid closest to me has his cell phone go off. First I think you really should shut your phone off then...............he answers the phone and engages in a conversation. His buddy then starts to text message, so the glow of the phone is lighting up the bald head of the guy in front of him and shining in my eyes (and yes it's bounces off my folliclied (note a word) challenged head as well). I look over there and say "you need to get off the phone". The kid that is texting just looks at me and the one talking continues to talk. Now I'm ticked, I slap the seat next to me lightly, sorta, and say again "you need get off the phone or leave". Of course they chuckle sarcastically but shut it down. No other problems and the movie goes on.

2nd time:

Last night, my son and I are watching a movie and about an hour and a half later a boy and girl come in, yes I said an hour and a half, and cross in front of us. The girl acknowledges me by saying "wuz up". I just stare at her with just vacant thoughts. The two immediately start talking and giggling to the point my son moves a few seats down and gestures that they are talking and he can't hear the movie. I put up with it for about 10 minutes. Contemplating whether or not I want to have my ass kicked I just can't hold back. I lean forward over the lovebirds and asked "can you be quiet please?" The guy says "sorry dude, I didn't see you back there" instead of ignoring that white lie I respond "I've been sitting back here the whole time". They stopped and at the end of the movie he put his hand out and apologized.

The point of the story is if I am in the theatre and I have spent that much money on a movie that I don't know how good it is, or flick gambling, shut your phone and trap. You paid that good money too, respect other people and enjoy the show.

LPGA Foul!

2008-08-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

First off, I have not read up completely about the situation but it already has heated me up.

Today the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) announced today that players will have their membership suspended if they don't comply with speaking English. Basically if you don't speak English you cannot participate in LPGA events. To me this is ridiculous, give me a break, you don't talk your ball into the hole. By not speaking English you are not harming anyone or causing anybody else to do poorly. You don't have an advantage over the competition.

This is purely business motivated and wrong. It's not the LPESGADA! (in case you haven't figured it Ladies Professional English Speaking Golf Association of Discriminatory Assholes). If this is the way it will be than lets come up with a few more:

To be union actress, you must be a scratch golfer.

To be professional baseball player you need to have a full head of hair. (I am totally against this one)

To be a cook you must be proficient in Excel, Word, Powerpoint and Sudoku.

To use a keyboard you must have 10 fingers AND can juggle 6 oranges.

What is going on? Please someone, tell me I missing a major point of this decision by the LPGA.

Chinese Gymnasts Age Controversy

2008-08-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

I have a problem with rules not being followed, IF indeed the gymnast was under 16 that is cheating no questions asked.

I have two issues in regards to the latest "age" controversy:

1. The screening process before the competition begins. Granted you can only prevent so much but focus on the system that screens the competitors. 2. The other issue I raise is "who cares" how old they are, open it up and let anyone participate. If your Country wants to put an eight year on the diving platform then so be it. It all comes down to the parents responsibility to how their children should be exposed. We don't cap how young an actor or artist can be. The parents for that 16 year old or 8 year old child are going to do what they feel is best for their child. They have to live with their actions and what affect it will have on their child.

I'm not saying that I believe that parents should submit their children to that or any other form of money making machine but honestly why should age be a factor, what argument is out there to make a discerned difference between 16 and 8 competing in the Olympics or any other public attraction?

Yeah!

2008-08-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

Ever been perplexed about how to spell the exclamation of "YAY!"? I have always used YEAH, but started to think whether or not that was right or not (or write or knot), it does not appear that YEAH is acceptable. How about YAY? YAH? YEA? YA? What I could find is that YEA is actually correct so now I am relieved that I can save my H's and used them on something else.

Goodnighhht all.

15th Wedding Anniversary

2008-08-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

15 years ago today I married the greatest women. She is the one for me. She turned my life around from just living day by day and making ends meet to building a career and establishing a good ol American family. We have been met with our challenges and we have conquered them with more love stemming from them. We have met many hurdles that topple relationships and have bounded over them. I am thankful for everyday not alone for life it self but a life with a beautiful person.

Thank you Julie for 15 years and many more.

Love Michel

Facebook

2008-08-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

Oh my, I'm addicted. My wife talked me into joining this Facebook site (I think she just wanted a friend count, lol). Anyways, it is a great way to find people you have lost touch with and is a good way to get to know people just a bit better. It is somewhat sad that we resort to blogs and personal websites to get to know people but on the other hand it is a way to meet people that you would never run into in life. Here is my facebook site if anyone is interested, it's fun!

http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1344937309

What do you call.............

2008-07-31T19:42:00.000-07:00

it when you cross a brown chicken and brown cow?

brownchicken, browncowwwww (listen below)

Shower-Sprinkles-Rain-Drizzle-Downpour

2008-07-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what the difference is? Is a shower more wet than rain? Is a downpour more wet than a sprinkle. I can assume that it goes in this order from wet to less wet?

downpour
shower
rain
sprinkle
drizzle

I really don't know and being the golfer that I am while living in the PNW it really is a factor when deciding (enter pun) whether or not my Tuesday night game is going to happen. Maybe some meteorologists out there can chime in? Why is a weather person called a meteorologist, do they care what meteors really do in forecasting weather? Back to you Jim.

Critical Mass--Bikers Have Anger Problems

2008-07-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Recent events in Seattle, propel my opinion of bicyclists and their attitude towards the rules of the road. Not only the rules of the road but rules in general.

I'm not against people riding bikes but it just infuriates me that some have no problem holding up traffic on roads created and paid for by taxpayers for motorized vehicles and blowing stop signs left and right.

Back to the recent Critical Mass ride in Seattle. A motorist was trying to pull out of a parking spot and could not do so due to bicyclists blocking his way and sitting on his car. He tried to back up and bumped a biker, so then the group started hitting his car, breaking the rear and front window. He finally made it down the road a bit and was attacked again by the mob, one biker punched him through the window, as he got out he was hit from behind with an unknown object.

If you try and find a "mission" of Critical Mass, good luck, there really isn't any agenda only to meet and ride. What I find humorous or disgusting is Critical Mass was originally set up to show solidarity towards the cities and their unfriendly laws towards bicyclist.

So, the moral of the story, fight unfriendly laws with unfriendly violence. Good job Critical Mass, that's a good way to draw attention, idiots.

Find a trail and stay on it.

When Does Warm Become Hot?

2008-07-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

When does warm become hot? I know the other end of the spectrum we have cold becoming freezing at 32 degrees Fahrenheit but is there something for hot? I am curious as I can correctly transition in phrasing hot on days that qualify. If you live in the Western Washington, we may not see "hot" that often therefore growing up here it is possible I would not know this important info.

And is there a point that drizzle turns into rain, rain into showers, showers into downpour? Is it just a matter of personal opinion and left open to me to exaggerate if I want?

Cat Got Your Tongue?

2008-06-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

This morning while trying to pet my cat nicely, he decides he would bite my arm a few times. Now tattooed with a teeth marks I retreat to the couch away from the beast. So as I'm looking at him, he looking back at me like a Cheshire cat, I tell him to quit being a jerk (ok, I called him more than a jerk) but he just keeps grinning at me. I ask him "why do you have to be such an ass, I was just trying to pet you". I am talking to this animal like I'm expecting a response which is probably a blog entry by itself. No response of course, so I proceed to say "what's wrong, cat got your tongue?" Now he looks at me like an idiot.

Who would have his tongue then? Do I ask him if a dog has his tongue?

If you curious as a cat, I looked up where that phrase may have derived from:

The phrase probably comes from a custom in the Mideast hundreds of years ago, when it was common to punish a thief by cutting off their right hand, and a liar by ripping out their tongue. These severed body parts were given to the king's pet cats as their daily food.

Have a good day, meow.

Towelology

2008-06-26T20:58:00.000-07:00

Toilet paper: Makes sense, sits on a roll next to the toilet.

Tissue: Seems like it would be called nose tissue, sniffle tissue, snot tissue, zit fix tissue? Isn't there another tissue paper that you put in those gift bags?

Paper Towels: Seems like they would be called clean up a mess towels, substitute napkins, substitute coasters?

Shop Towels: Can I use them in the garage or outside of a shop?

Napkins: Can we also call them lapkins? or facekins?

I must be tired, goodnight.

Times Square

2008-06-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Times Square in NYC is actually not square? More like a "X" or four triangles. Why wouldn't we just call it NYX or NY^? At least I know now, I would have been walking around looking for that famous square. Side Note: At one time it was nicked named The Tenderloin as it was the most desirable part Manhattan. Ok enough Michelipedia.

Don't worry Red Square in Moscow is actually a square or courtyard so I should be able to successfully find it. Now if I only had a sense of direction.

Guitar Zero

2008-06-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Damn game! I can't listen to the radio without hearing the guitar cords. I have actually been laying in bed strumming Slow Ride. Now that I have advanced from 'easy' it's all over, I'm hooked. I do have to work on my pinkie finger though, it hasn't been worked in this capacity yet so it's in a bit of shock right now while talking to me (cramping) about "what the hell are you doing to me?" Even the crowd loves me, they ask for encores and other rockstars want to battle me, ha!

I'm sure it's quite a site to see me slouching back on the couch and the only thing moving are my 4 left fingers and right hand strumming and whacking on the whammy bar. Doesn't do much good for me to stand up as I wasn't born with rhythm and it makes no sense to work out my already rockin legs while rockin out.

For those that haven't been hooked to Guitar Hero, stay away, unless you want to burn up your summer nights.

Gas Excuse #101

2008-06-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

I have heard the gamut of excuses because gas prices are too "high". Today I read that students at one of the community colleges are forced to miss school because it is just too pricey to drive to school. Give me a break. Why don't you cut your text messaging package, drink water instead of a latte before school or cut many of the extras that we get in life. I got more solutions, carpool, walk, ride the bus, think outside the box or you will have a box on the corner. (If any homeless people are reading this, nothing against your profession)

The colleges are now jumping on board, thinking about cutting school down to four days a week. Wonder if the instructors/professors will go for that? Gee, I just wonder? Let me see, pay me just as much to work four days a week instead of five, yeah I think I will go for that.

High gas prices do not excuse priorities in life, suck it up and get to school. Remember why you're in school? Would you be able to skip work because it's just too expense to get there?

Bi.....?

2008-06-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

I got into a discussion about the word "bi-monthly". When our discussion, or misunderstanding, finally came to rest we discovered we had two different definitions of the word. I was understanding twice per month and he was understanding every other month. I thought it was funny, when it was all said and done, about how a little twist on the definition can bring such confusion. Twice per month and every other month is quite some difference. Webster defines it as:

1 : occurring every two months 2 : occurring twice a month : semimonthly

Bi-weekly, same result. Bi-annually, doesn't work, it means one thing....twice per year.....but what describes every other year?

Now going out of the box, my favorite, what about bi-sexual? Webster defines it as:

1 a: possessing characters of both sexes : hermaphroditic b: of, relating to, or characterized by a tendency to direct sexual desire toward both sexes2: of, relating to, or involving both sexes

So why wouldn't it mean you would be drawn to the opposite sex every other encounter? Wow, how confused a person would be! Or, drawn to one sex every two weeks if they were bi-sexual bi-weekly.

I'm getting back into the box, good luck trying to figure that one out.

Ok, one last thought, can a bicycle that is ridden twice a month or every other month be a bi-weekly bicycle. Can a bike be a bi-sexual bicycle and would that mean my wife would ride the bicycle the first half of the month and I ride it the second half? Or can it be used only twice a year?

News at 5

2008-06-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

I heard something the other day that cracked me up. This guy was talking about the evening newscast and mentioned that he thought it was funny how everyone gets somewhat pissed at the weatherman for the poor weather forecast.

"Rain most likely (we hear that a lot in Seattle) this weekend and temperatures will drop below seasonal averages"

The response back from the anchor was so simple but so true, now that I pay attention to it. "Thanks a lot Jim" as they roll their eyes with disgust. Jim standing there like schmuck thinking, "hey I don't make the weather I report it".

I mean would it make sense to reverse the tables?

"Today a man stormed the courtroom and opened fire on the unsuspecting defendant".

"Thanks a lot Sharon, way to go" sheesh as I get a sour look on my face. Like she stormed the courtroom herself!

Sportscaster gets the shaft when the home team loses. Again, other than the Seahawks, we get that A LOT up here.

Everyone loves the people helpers and especially the "consumer guy".

Back to you blurfer.............

Sweet Tooth

2008-06-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder why they call it a sweet tooth? You know the saying "Wow, looks like he has a sweet tooth". Do you have to keep the sweet directly on that tooth or can you use multiple teeth? Do you have to select what the lucky tooth will be at birth or at least before your virgin sweet? What about people with dentures? What about those poor soles that lost their sweet tooth, is there a pinch runner put in?

What about beyond the sweets? Do we have a sour tooth? Do we have a bland tooth? Maybe that is why we have 32 teeth, we can hold 32 different tastes? What are the taste buds for then if your teeth are eligible to take care of it?

If you get your wisdom teeth pulled do you lose 4 tastes AND your wisdom? Oh boy, I have lost so many teeth features and yes you guessed it, I have no wisdom.

Nothing To Write Home About

2008-06-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

I heard a comedian on the radio today that was talking about a response he had to a friend who ask how his date went. He replied, that she was nothing to write home about. Of course the friend was concerned more about what he wrote home about in describing a lovely lady.

That got me thinking about the comment "nothing to write home about". Makes sense to me except when you actually are at home and something happens? When asked "hey Mike how was the deadliest catch last night?" If I actually watched it at home, could I say, "well Jim, it was nothing to write home about"? Who would I be writing to, myself? my cat? I'm easily amused and confused. Am I writing home right now?

WASL Stories Around Every Corner

2008-06-03T18:45:00.001-07:00

Story on a student that chose to stay with her ill baby and will not graduate with her own class.

http://www.komonews.com/news/19512484.html

Here's a story showing a 91.4% pass rate on the reading and writing section. Math scores are still in the 70%. The story has a video clip that talks about the majority of the students that didn't pass are minorities, hence the problem I have a problem with the WASL. It is geared towards the cookie cutter child, wonder how many were ESL students?

http://www.kirotv.com/education/16477139/detail.html

WASL Strikes Again

2008-05-30T05:38:00.000-07:00

Another example, I'm sure there are many, where the WASL caters to a certain way children learn, retain and test. You cannot expect all children, or even adults, to digest the same way and produce the same, it's just not possible. The WASL brags about how it measures how the message is delivered then why hold a "real" diploma over the head of a child that struggles or any child in that matter? Why don't they put the teachers on a test and if they don't pass they need to go back to school? Seriously, it's just a way to shift the responsibility from the teacher/school district to the child and the child gets penalized. Wake up people and open your eyes to the kids that don't fit in a box.

see link:

http://www.komonews.com/news/19383569.html

Roses are red.......

2008-05-26T08:02:00.001-07:00

Roses are red and violets are blue

Wait!

Roses are indeed red but violets aren't blue. Isn't violet an actual color?

Roses are red and violets are violets. Hmm, just doesn't sound right.

Wait again!

Roses aren't exactly red in all cases are they? So is it proper to adapt the saying?

All I know is that these roses are for my wife and they are red!

10 Items or less

2008-05-25T05:43:00.000-07:00

As we were standing in the ten items or less line yesterday I was thinking how far would that go? If I have nine regular items and buy a pack of stamps do the stamps count as one or twenty, I would say 1, crime solved. Now that was resolved, I thought what about lottery tickets? I had ruled the stamps out due to no opportunity to buy the stamps one at a time from the grocer, it is the pack or none. But with lottery tickets you can buy one at a time, therefore purchasing more than one in my grocery stats would put me over the ten. What about buying chicken from the deli? You can buy one or more. What about packs of cigarettes? What about bulk candy? Hot dogs we will let slide! Oh, there has got to be some rules somewhere!

Cougar or Husky

2008-05-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before I listen to a talk radio show on the way home most of the week. Last night the buzz was about bikini baristas, wonder who was just blogging about that recently?

What was funny to me and some of you will probably think "guess you had to be there" but it's my blog and I found it funny.

A female caller came on the radio and said that she was a 42 year old cougar (for those that don't know it means she is an older lady that likes younger men) and really didn't have a problem with it, meaning baristas in thongs and pasties. The next caller comes on and tells all that she is 55 years old and used to work at a coffee stand that changed their work uniform to bikinis as well. She wasn't too surprised she was not asked to continue working there. The next line was a classic for those that live in Washington State. She then proclaimed she was a husky. I sat there and thought to myself what the hell is a husky? Did husky mean a really really old lady that likes younger younger men? Nope, she was proud to be a University of Washington Husky! The hosts just chuckled and explained to her that the definition of cougar this time did not mean you went to school in Pullman.

Mrs. Obama Attacked

2008-05-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

I listen to a talk show on AM on my way home from work. Usually I end up on the right side of things, and I mean both "rights". Today was about the Tennessee GOP attack on Michelle Obama, although using the word attack is a little dramatic. I don't understand, and this story supports why the focus on the candidates gets lost. Instead we have a group that goes after Barack's wife? What, did they run out of issues to bring up with Barack? That just can't be the case as there are a host of issues for both candidates to make points on. I applaud Barack for standing up for his wife but he better get used to it at the same time. We are running out of time and the slate to me right now looks like a process of elimination, eek. What I mean is I don't have confidence in anyone right now, maybe we can go into extra innings? Maybe a relief pitcher? Below is the story about the ravaging attack :)

Is Barrack Obama's wife off limits? The Tenseness GOP has launched an attack on her, and Obama is saying back off. That opened the debate on the KVI airwaves, what's in bounds and fair game, and surprisingly both Tators agreed again!

http://www.bayoubuzz.com/News/US/Politics/President_Race_2008/Attacking_Obamas_Wife_Michelle_Is_Political_Life__6433.asp

Ladies First?

2008-05-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

I am a believer in ladies first, hold the door for a lady and even in the last few years I open the car door for my wife. Something that I have noticed in public places, not all but most, that the restroom for the men is the first one you come to. Seems strange to me, is there an expectation that the ladies should walk further? Is there an expectation that ladies use the restroom less? I don't get it.

I would think that more ladies use the restroom and I know for a fact they take a longer time to do their business. With the logic of length of time, it seems more practical if the ladies room would be first. This way the man can waste some of the time he will be waiting anyways, by walking further both directions and it seems that a lady should not have to walk as far.

Pay attention to public places for this, you will see that the majority are set up this way. I am going to start swapping signs and see I can change this one restroom at a time.