pelage(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
the coat or covering, of a mammal, as hair, fur, etc..
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Word of the Week - PELAGE
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Eight Random Tribulations
While not specifically tagging me on her blog, the bug called to tell me I was tagged. (Talk about tribulations.) Anyhow, I guess I am suppose to tell you eight random things about myself.
1. I ran out of the house naked when I was little. I think I was in trouble.
2. I talked ddpup into helping me paint the trailer we were temporarily living in with turpentine. I definitely was in trouble.
3. I once put my favorite shirt over a lamp to create a fairytale mood and forgot about it when mom called us to lunch. It started smoking and mom called the fire department. Boy was I in trouble.
4. When we lived in Arkansas, mom, ddpup and I would lay out on the lawn and name the constellations. Didn't get in trouble for that.
5. I wouldn't finish my classwork in first grade so I wouldn't have to go on the playground.
6. In California, I had a choice for my birthday. A small telescope that I could take home immediately or wait for the bigger one. I waited.
7. Soon after getting my driver's license, ddpup, a friend and I were driving on the base in Illinois, when a mouse jumped out of the wiper well. Scared the tribulations out of me.
8. When my ex failed his journeyman's test the first time, he brought the test home and read the questions out to me. I got them all right.
It's up to you if you want to do this random 8 meme.
1. I ran out of the house naked when I was little. I think I was in trouble.
2. I talked ddpup into helping me paint the trailer we were temporarily living in with turpentine. I definitely was in trouble.
3. I once put my favorite shirt over a lamp to create a fairytale mood and forgot about it when mom called us to lunch. It started smoking and mom called the fire department. Boy was I in trouble.
4. When we lived in Arkansas, mom, ddpup and I would lay out on the lawn and name the constellations. Didn't get in trouble for that.
5. I wouldn't finish my classwork in first grade so I wouldn't have to go on the playground.
6. In California, I had a choice for my birthday. A small telescope that I could take home immediately or wait for the bigger one. I waited.
7. Soon after getting my driver's license, ddpup, a friend and I were driving on the base in Illinois, when a mouse jumped out of the wiper well. Scared the tribulations out of me.
8. When my ex failed his journeyman's test the first time, he brought the test home and read the questions out to me. I got them all right.
It's up to you if you want to do this random 8 meme.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
A Handful of Tribulation
At 10 months
Handprint, (c) Katie Felix
Serendipity kit, (c) Atomic Cupcake
Fonts: Helinda Rook
Handprint, (c) Katie Felix
Serendipity kit, (c) Atomic Cupcake
Fonts: Helinda Rook
Word of the Week - QUODLIBET
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
quodlibet(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. an academic debate or exercise in argument, esp. on the theological question
2. a humorously incongruous musical medley.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
A Star, a Birth and No Tribulations
I had really intended to do a scrapbook page a day for each of the grands; but somehow never got it done. And I failed to start it with the Princess but maybe I can rectify that now. So in honor of a precious girl who turned 8 yesterday and whose birthday is being celebrated today at the pool, here is the start of the a Star Attraction...
Page Template, © 2005 Monica McGill
Baby of Mine Kit, Atomic Cupcake
Fonts: 101!Star Lit Night; Escrita; Blackadder ITC
Poem by Larry Barretto
Baby of Mine Kit, Atomic Cupcake
Fonts: 101!Star Lit Night; Escrita; Blackadder ITC
Poem by Larry Barretto
Friday, July 13, 2007
The Princess turned 8 years old Today
Happy Birthday Honey,
from Tink, Pan, Uncle Nuke, Uncle Scamp, Aunt Honey and the Ballerina
Template, (c) Misty Cato Designs
Pity Party kit, (c) FernLili of FernLili's Digital Designs
Fonts: PonytailSSK; ZephyrScript FLF
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
A Long and Lazy Tribulation
Haven't been posting much. Don't really know why. Lazy, maybe.... Or just a reaction from the surgery. Just can't seem to get into anything this last week. Blogging, scrapbooking, cross stitching or even crossword puzzles. I just kind of float from one thing to another, not really completing anything. Except the dishes, LOL.
I really have no reason not to go back to work, but I left with the indication that it might be 2 weeks so got nearly 2 weeks worth of work done before I left. I really was going to go in this morning. I didn't sleep well last night. It was the first night I went without the pain medication. Oh I have some, it was only suppose to last me two days and nearly two weeks later I still have half a bottle. So after getting to sleep after 2 a.m., I decided I wasn't going in this morning either. Of course, I woke at 7:30 a.m. to the sound of thunder and of rain pelting the skylight over the bed. Another excellent reason for staying home don't you think?
Maybe tomorrow I will go back in for an hour or two. Maybe.
I really have no reason not to go back to work, but I left with the indication that it might be 2 weeks so got nearly 2 weeks worth of work done before I left. I really was going to go in this morning. I didn't sleep well last night. It was the first night I went without the pain medication. Oh I have some, it was only suppose to last me two days and nearly two weeks later I still have half a bottle. So after getting to sleep after 2 a.m., I decided I wasn't going in this morning either. Of course, I woke at 7:30 a.m. to the sound of thunder and of rain pelting the skylight over the bed. Another excellent reason for staying home don't you think?
Maybe tomorrow I will go back in for an hour or two. Maybe.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Word of the Week - RECHERCHE
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
recherche(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. sought out with care; rare; choice; uncommon
2. having refinement or studied elegance
3. too refined; to studied.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Beauty in a Make-Up Tribulation
Fri 7/6 Blog prompt: Do you wear makeup? Love it or hate it? If you do wear it, is it for you or other people?
Me in make-up? You have to be kidding. Even as a teenager I wasn't particularly fond of it (although I wore it because in my mind I was rebelling, go figure). It makes my face itch and feel yucky.
That isn't to say I never wear it. Occasionally I do. Like to big dinner parties or formal parties. Nowadays, we don't have those as much. On that note, I guess I wore it more for other people than myself.
Me in make-up? You have to be kidding. Even as a teenager I wasn't particularly fond of it (although I wore it because in my mind I was rebelling, go figure). It makes my face itch and feel yucky.
That isn't to say I never wear it. Occasionally I do. Like to big dinner parties or formal parties. Nowadays, we don't have those as much. On that note, I guess I wore it more for other people than myself.
A Beautiful Change of Tribulations
Thur 7/5 Blog Prompt: How have your ideas of what is beautiful changed since you were a child?
I don't think they have much. Though I probably didn't think about art and artists much when I was little. Back then a field full of clover, a night full of stars, getting up close and personal with a bumblebee caught in a bottle, clover necklaces and a Christmas tree covered with angel hair were beautiful. They still are. And the memories are beautiful.
I don't think they have much. Though I probably didn't think about art and artists much when I was little. Back then a field full of clover, a night full of stars, getting up close and personal with a bumblebee caught in a bottle, clover necklaces and a Christmas tree covered with angel hair were beautiful. They still are. And the memories are beautiful.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Being a Patriot is No Tribulation
Wed 7/4 Blog Prompt: Do you have a favorite patriotic song? Share it with us...we'd love to hear it!
First I guess you should know that I am fiercely patriotic. I believe in my country and my military and just about any song which extols the virtues of one or the other or both will make me swell with pride and get all teary-eyed. But being a military brat, it is the military songs that are dearest to my heart.
The Marine Hymn
From the Halls of Montezuma
To the Shores of Tripoli;
We fight our country's battles
In the air, on land and sea;
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title
of United States Marine.
Our flag's unfurled to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in ev'ry clime and place
Where we could take a gun;
In the snow of far-off Northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes;
You will find us always on the job--
The United States Marines.
Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve;
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes;
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
The Navy Hymn
Lyrics by Reverend William Whiting and Music by Reverend John B. Dyke
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep,
Its own appointed limits keep.
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea! Amen.
Eternal Father, lend Thy grace To
those with wings who fly thro' space,
Thro wind and storm, thro' sun and rain,
Oh bring them safely home again.
Oh Father, hear an humble prayer,
For those in peril in the air! Amen.
Oh Trinity of love and pow'r,
Our brethren shield in danger's hour,
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them where so e'er they go.
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea! Amen.
Off We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder
Words and Music by Captain Robert Crawford, ©1939 as the "Army Air Corps Song."; renewed 1977 by the USAF
Off we go into the wild blue yonder,
Climbing high into the sun;
Here they come zooming to meet our thunder,
At 'em boys, Give 'er the gun! (Give 'er the gun now!)
Down we dive, spouting our flame from under,
Off with one heckuva roar!
We live in fame or go down in flame. Hey!
Nothing'll stop the U.S. Air Force!
Minds of men fashioned a crate of thunder
Sent it high into the blue
Hands of men blasted the world asunder,
How they lived God only knew!
Souls of men dreaming of skies to conquer
Gave us wings ever to soar,
With scouts before and bombers galore, Hey!
Nothing'll stop the US Air Force!
Here's a toast to the host of those
Who love the vastness of the sky,
To a friend we send a message
Of his brother men who fly.
We drink to those who gave their all of old,
Then down we roar
to score the rainbow's pot of gold.
A toast to the host of men we boast, the US Air Force.
Zoom!
Off we go into the wild sky yonder,
Keep the wings level and true!
If you'd live to be a grey-haired wonder,
Keep your nose out of the blue! (Out of the blue, boy!)
Flying men guarding the nation's border,
We'll be there, followed by more,
In echelon we carry on! Hey!
Nothing'll stop the US Air Force!
First I guess you should know that I am fiercely patriotic. I believe in my country and my military and just about any song which extols the virtues of one or the other or both will make me swell with pride and get all teary-eyed. But being a military brat, it is the military songs that are dearest to my heart.
The Marine Hymn
From the Halls of Montezuma
To the Shores of Tripoli;
We fight our country's battles
In the air, on land and sea;
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title
of United States Marine.
Our flag's unfurled to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in ev'ry clime and place
Where we could take a gun;
In the snow of far-off Northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes;
You will find us always on the job--
The United States Marines.
Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve;
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes;
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
The Navy Hymn
Lyrics by Reverend William Whiting and Music by Reverend John B. Dyke
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep,
Its own appointed limits keep.
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea! Amen.
Eternal Father, lend Thy grace To
those with wings who fly thro' space,
Thro wind and storm, thro' sun and rain,
Oh bring them safely home again.
Oh Father, hear an humble prayer,
For those in peril in the air! Amen.
Oh Trinity of love and pow'r,
Our brethren shield in danger's hour,
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them where so e'er they go.
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea! Amen.
Off We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder
Words and Music by Captain Robert Crawford, ©1939 as the "Army Air Corps Song."; renewed 1977 by the USAF
Off we go into the wild blue yonder,
Climbing high into the sun;
Here they come zooming to meet our thunder,
At 'em boys, Give 'er the gun! (Give 'er the gun now!)
Down we dive, spouting our flame from under,
Off with one heckuva roar!
We live in fame or go down in flame. Hey!
Nothing'll stop the U.S. Air Force!
Minds of men fashioned a crate of thunder
Sent it high into the blue
Hands of men blasted the world asunder,
How they lived God only knew!
Souls of men dreaming of skies to conquer
Gave us wings ever to soar,
With scouts before and bombers galore, Hey!
Nothing'll stop the US Air Force!
Here's a toast to the host of those
Who love the vastness of the sky,
To a friend we send a message
Of his brother men who fly.
We drink to those who gave their all of old,
Then down we roar
to score the rainbow's pot of gold.
A toast to the host of men we boast, the US Air Force.
Zoom!
Off we go into the wild sky yonder,
Keep the wings level and true!
If you'd live to be a grey-haired wonder,
Keep your nose out of the blue! (Out of the blue, boy!)
Flying men guarding the nation's border,
We'll be there, followed by more,
In echelon we carry on! Hey!
Nothing'll stop the US Air Force!
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
10 Tribulations & Counting
And the Princess will be 8 years old. Where has the time gone?
CREDITS: Two Peas, January 2006 Freebie kit, ©2006 Anne Langpap
Two Peas, Floral Stamp from Flowers Are Beautiful kit, ©2006 Rhonna Farrer
Two Peas, flower stamp from A Little Pizzaz, ©2007 Sande Krieger
Scrapartist, Elements from Avec Amour, ©2006 Isabelle Cyr aka zazou
Scrapartist, Love & Affection word art, ©2006 Daniela Peuss
A Beautiful Tribulation
Tue 7/3 Blog Prompt: Define the idea of beauty -- physical, artistic, natural, whatever...just talk about what you think is beautiful.
Physical: To see a child laughing. The sparkle of happiness in a person's eye. Two people holding hands, no matter what the ages are; a child and parent, an elderly couple; a couple contemplating their life together....
Artistic: Resilient Wanderer, Clyde Caldwell; Passion, Sir Frank Dicksee; The Sailing Signal, Arthur Hughes; On the Terrace at Rolleboise, Daniel Ridgway Knight; Arthur Steps Up, Don Maitz; High Cross of Clonmacnois, Mary McSweeney; Greeting the Dawn, Keith Parkinson; On the Terrace, Sir Edward Poynter; The Cherry Bonnet, Emile Vernon; Passage: The Avatar, Michael Whelan; Lunar Celebration, Wyland; are but a few of the many.
Natural: Watching the waves lap upon the white sand shore. To stand beside a redwood and see a deer peering from behind another. Gazing down at the Grand Canyon, either from edge or from a plane. Rolling black clouds of an impending storm. A sunset from the boat.
"Beauty in things exists merely in the mind which contemplates
them."~David Hume's Essays, Moral and Political, 1742
Physical: To see a child laughing. The sparkle of happiness in a person's eye. Two people holding hands, no matter what the ages are; a child and parent, an elderly couple; a couple contemplating their life together....
Artistic: Resilient Wanderer, Clyde Caldwell; Passion, Sir Frank Dicksee; The Sailing Signal, Arthur Hughes; On the Terrace at Rolleboise, Daniel Ridgway Knight; Arthur Steps Up, Don Maitz; High Cross of Clonmacnois, Mary McSweeney; Greeting the Dawn, Keith Parkinson; On the Terrace, Sir Edward Poynter; The Cherry Bonnet, Emile Vernon; Passage: The Avatar, Michael Whelan; Lunar Celebration, Wyland; are but a few of the many.
Natural: Watching the waves lap upon the white sand shore. To stand beside a redwood and see a deer peering from behind another. Gazing down at the Grand Canyon, either from edge or from a plane. Rolling black clouds of an impending storm. A sunset from the boat.
Waves lapping
Sunset
Monday, July 02, 2007
Tribulations and UFOs
Mon 7/2 Blog Prompt: Today is World UFO day. What do you think UFOs are? Do you believe in little green men?
Today Ordinary Days starts leading the blog prompts again and she has started with a doozy.
Well, I think UFOs are exactly that... Unidentified Flying Objects. And no, I don't believe in little green men. But that doesn't mean I don't believe in extraterrestrial life.
I think Jodie Foster expressed it best in "Contact" when she said:
Today Ordinary Days starts leading the blog prompts again and she has started with a doozy.
Well, I think UFOs are exactly that... Unidentified Flying Objects. And no, I don't believe in little green men. But that doesn't mean I don't believe in extraterrestrial life.
I think Jodie Foster expressed it best in "Contact" when she said:
"So if it's just us... It seems like an awful waste of space."
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Word of the Week - REFULGENT
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
refulgent(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
shining; radiant; glowing; resplendent.
Friday, June 29, 2007
High School Graduation Tribulations
Fri 6/29 Blog Prompt: What were your high school colors? Team names? Clubs you belong too? Did you graduate? What do you remember most about your graduation day?
I went to two different high schools. John F. Kennedy in Guam and Mascoutah Community High in Illinois.
JFK's colors were green and gold. That was also the name of the teams. Green and Gold. There were no other high schools on the island so we had to play against ourselves. It was there I belonged to the Latin Club. I really wasn't much into clubs anyway. I had too many other things I wanted to do.
Mascoutah touted maroon and white as the school colors. And, you know, I can't recall the name of their team. But then again, I was only there for my senior year. Shoot, now I will have to see if I can locate my yearbook and find out. It's going to drive me nutso.
Graduation day was great. It was a small class and the ceremony was being held outdoors, hurridly as there was a thunderstorm brewing on the horizon. Someone tied a bunch of balloons to my cap and it kept trying to fly away. Finally I took them off and tied them to the car. It wasn't long after the ceremony was over that the storm struck. It was a fun day and a fun time.
NOTE: I'm heading for gallbladder surgery in just under an hour so if I don't fell up to snuff for the next couple of days, the Bug may do some posting for me. If she doesn't, well, you will hear from me when I get back. (Look what happened when she was suppose to be posting for me while I was on vacation in December, LOL.)
I went to two different high schools. John F. Kennedy in Guam and Mascoutah Community High in Illinois.
JFK's colors were green and gold. That was also the name of the teams. Green and Gold. There were no other high schools on the island so we had to play against ourselves. It was there I belonged to the Latin Club. I really wasn't much into clubs anyway. I had too many other things I wanted to do.
Mascoutah touted maroon and white as the school colors. And, you know, I can't recall the name of their team. But then again, I was only there for my senior year. Shoot, now I will have to see if I can locate my yearbook and find out. It's going to drive me nutso.
Graduation day was great. It was a small class and the ceremony was being held outdoors, hurridly as there was a thunderstorm brewing on the horizon. Someone tied a bunch of balloons to my cap and it kept trying to fly away. Finally I took them off and tied them to the car. It wasn't long after the ceremony was over that the storm struck. It was a fun day and a fun time.
NOTE: I'm heading for gallbladder surgery in just under an hour so if I don't fell up to snuff for the next couple of days, the Bug may do some posting for me. If she doesn't, well, you will hear from me when I get back. (Look what happened when she was suppose to be posting for me while I was on vacation in December, LOL.)
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Tribulations at the Evening Meal
Thu 6/28 Blog Prompt: What typical evening meals did you eat as a teenager? Did your mother or father prepare them or did you? What was your favorite? Least favorite?
Chicken and dumplings were always a hit. Spaghetti, mid-week and steak on the weekends. Then there was always meatloaf, yummmmm. Mom makes the best meatloaf and chicken & dumplings & spaghetti. Dad always cooked the steaks out on the grill.
In fact here is a picture of him grilling way back in 1968
www.ImageShack.us"
I just named all my favorites; but my least favorite food growing up was green peas. Ugh, yuck, nasty. I still don't care to much for them, but can eat them now without gagging :).
Chicken and dumplings were always a hit. Spaghetti, mid-week and steak on the weekends. Then there was always meatloaf, yummmmm. Mom makes the best meatloaf and chicken & dumplings & spaghetti. Dad always cooked the steaks out on the grill.
In fact here is a picture of him grilling way back in 1968
www.ImageShack.us"I just named all my favorites; but my least favorite food growing up was green peas. Ugh, yuck, nasty. I still don't care to much for them, but can eat them now without gagging :).
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
The Tribulated Music of Teens
Wed 6/27 Blog Prompt: Did you listen to a lot of music as a teenager? Did you have a stereo, radio, cd player or reel to reel? Who was your favorite music artist? Favorite song? Which one still moves you today?
I probably listened to music as much as any teenager in the late 60's/early 70's did. Herman's Hermits, the Beatles, Guess Who, Chicago, Santana, Shawn Phillips, Black Oak Arkansas and so the list goes on. I probably had nearly a hundred albums. But I had to. While in Guam, I used my babysitting money to buy a JVC stereo with am/fm radio, record player and reel-to-reel. And I still have it. Doesn't work now, but I still have it. Maybe one day we will be able to find a needle for it and replace the reel-to-reel with a cd/mpg player. Maybe.
My all time favorite artists were Chicago with "Colour My World;" Bread's hit "If;" and Guess Who with "American Woman."
I probably listened to music as much as any teenager in the late 60's/early 70's did. Herman's Hermits, the Beatles, Guess Who, Chicago, Santana, Shawn Phillips, Black Oak Arkansas and so the list goes on. I probably had nearly a hundred albums. But I had to. While in Guam, I used my babysitting money to buy a JVC stereo with am/fm radio, record player and reel-to-reel. And I still have it. Doesn't work now, but I still have it. Maybe one day we will be able to find a needle for it and replace the reel-to-reel with a cd/mpg player. Maybe.
My all time favorite artists were Chicago with "Colour My World;" Bread's hit "If;" and Guess Who with "American Woman."
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Childhood Television Tribulations
Tue 6/26 Blog Prompt: Television.... Where would we be without television? Seriously though. Did you have a tv set while you were growing up? If not, did your neighbors or friends? If you did, what were some of the shows that were on and what were your favorites?
Yes, yes, yes, we had a television. At least since I was 5 or 6. Prior I couldn't tell you. As a young'un, my sister and I would watch Shirley Temple, Tarzan and Jungle Jim on the weekends. Couldn't wait for them. I do remember that the Flintstones came on Wednesday evenings and Batman on Thursday nights.
By high school, if I was at home, I would sit and watch golf with dad. That is until I discovered Saturday morning cartoons. Then I would have to watch Journey to the Center of the Earth. In all honesty, though, we never watched much television. I still don't though I will turn it on for background noise.
Yes, yes, yes, we had a television. At least since I was 5 or 6. Prior I couldn't tell you. As a young'un, my sister and I would watch Shirley Temple, Tarzan and Jungle Jim on the weekends. Couldn't wait for them. I do remember that the Flintstones came on Wednesday evenings and Batman on Thursday nights.
By high school, if I was at home, I would sit and watch golf with dad. That is until I discovered Saturday morning cartoons. Then I would have to watch Journey to the Center of the Earth. In all honesty, though, we never watched much television. I still don't though I will turn it on for background noise.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Tribulations of Teenage Jobs
Mon 6/25 Blog Prompt: Did you have an after school job as a teenager? What kind of job was it? What were you paid? What is your best and worst memory of the job?
Not a leave school and go to work job. I worked as a babysitter and made pretty good money at it. Of course, this was back with you only charged 50 cents and hour, LOL. Boy is that dating it. Still I was pretty good at it and had my regulars that usually paid more than what I was charging.
My best memory was watching two children, who for convenience sake, I'll call Ben and Robin. Robin was the sweetest little 6 year old, an angel with a severe case of mental retardation. She was well loved by her family, especially her 8 year brother, Ben. Ben was also a sweetheart, but whereas Robin had to be handled like a 6 month old, Ben was a genius. A real true genius. I would love to know what happened to them now. I really enjoyed my time with both of them.
They are also my worst memory. It was painful to see little Robin and realizing what her life was going to be like. And how hard it was going to be on little Ben being so smart.
Not a leave school and go to work job. I worked as a babysitter and made pretty good money at it. Of course, this was back with you only charged 50 cents and hour, LOL. Boy is that dating it. Still I was pretty good at it and had my regulars that usually paid more than what I was charging.
My best memory was watching two children, who for convenience sake, I'll call Ben and Robin. Robin was the sweetest little 6 year old, an angel with a severe case of mental retardation. She was well loved by her family, especially her 8 year brother, Ben. Ben was also a sweetheart, but whereas Robin had to be handled like a 6 month old, Ben was a genius. A real true genius. I would love to know what happened to them now. I really enjoyed my time with both of them.
They are also my worst memory. It was painful to see little Robin and realizing what her life was going to be like. And how hard it was going to be on little Ben being so smart.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Word of the Week - WEIR
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
weir(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. a low dam bilt in a river to back up or divert water, as for a mill; milldam
2. a fence, as of brushwood or stakes, built in a stream, channel, etc., for catching fish
3. an obstruction placed in a stream, diverting water through a prepared aperature for measuring rate of flow.
Friday, June 22, 2007
More Teenage Driving & Tribulations
Fri 6/22 Blog Prompt: Did you have your own car as a teenager or did you have to use the family car? What kind was it? If a family car, were you responsible to pay for the gas when you used it? How often were you allowed to use it? What restrictions, if any, were on it? If your own, did you purchase it yourself or was it a gift? How much did it cost and who paid the insurance on it?
Didn't own my own car until I had been married a few years, then I bought a Chevette. So back in high school, I used the family car... a Buick Regal. Big is all I can say about it. But maybe that is why I like trucks now.
I don't remember ever having to put gas in it. Dad was probably afraid I would break it, LOL. But then I didn't use it all that much either. Most things were within walking distance or I had friends with cars.
Didn't own my own car until I had been married a few years, then I bought a Chevette. So back in high school, I used the family car... a Buick Regal. Big is all I can say about it. But maybe that is why I like trucks now.
I don't remember ever having to put gas in it. Dad was probably afraid I would break it, LOL. But then I didn't use it all that much either. Most things were within walking distance or I had friends with cars.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Teenage Drivers & Tribulations
Thu 6/21 Blog Prompt: Did you learn to drive when you were a teenager? Who taught you? If at school, what kind of driver's ed was it? If a friend or parent, where did you go to learn? What was the worse part about learning to drive?
I'm with my folks on this one, let someone else teach them and me. I went to driver's ed in high school. I really liked it as we had simulators to practice in. I remember going into the room and having the lights dimmed for the "movie" that we would be using to practice with. Into our boxy car simulators and off to where ever the movie took us that day. After several weeks of simulated driving then we got to try the real thing on real roads. No specified driving courses around at the time I was learning. And 70 miles an hour on the freeway.
I think the thing I had the most problem with was the 3-point turn. I can do them now, if I have to but I still prefer not to have to do it.
I'm with my folks on this one, let someone else teach them and me. I went to driver's ed in high school. I really liked it as we had simulators to practice in. I remember going into the room and having the lights dimmed for the "movie" that we would be using to practice with. Into our boxy car simulators and off to where ever the movie took us that day. After several weeks of simulated driving then we got to try the real thing on real roads. No specified driving courses around at the time I was learning. And 70 miles an hour on the freeway.
I think the thing I had the most problem with was the 3-point turn. I can do them now, if I have to but I still prefer not to have to do it.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Tribulations & High School Friends
Wed 6/20 Blog Prompt: Did you have a lot of friends in high school or just one or two very close friends? What did you and your friends do for fun? Are you still in contact with any of them?
Yes and no. I had a lot of friends, but didn't. I know it doesn't make sense. We didn't so much as have a clique as to have a group. A lot of us hung out together, going to movies, shopping, etc., but there were only a few really close friends. Lillian, Keiko, Susan and a few more.
Being an Air Force brat entailed moving every couple of years so I had to learn how to make friends fast. Fortunately I have a very outgoing personality, even if I am an introvert.
In Guam, just about the only thing to do for fun was to go to the beach, the pool or the outdoor walk-in theaters. But I had fun. I loved it. Back stateside, there definitely was more to do, evenings at the park in O'Fallon. Shopping at real malls. Real movie theaters :).
I did keep in touch for many years, but as the time passed so did the letters and phone calls. Susan and I still keep in touch from time to time, even that is far between. Maybe one day, I'll run into them all again.
Yes and no. I had a lot of friends, but didn't. I know it doesn't make sense. We didn't so much as have a clique as to have a group. A lot of us hung out together, going to movies, shopping, etc., but there were only a few really close friends. Lillian, Keiko, Susan and a few more.
Being an Air Force brat entailed moving every couple of years so I had to learn how to make friends fast. Fortunately I have a very outgoing personality, even if I am an introvert.
In Guam, just about the only thing to do for fun was to go to the beach, the pool or the outdoor walk-in theaters. But I had fun. I loved it. Back stateside, there definitely was more to do, evenings at the park in O'Fallon. Shopping at real malls. Real movie theaters :).
I did keep in touch for many years, but as the time passed so did the letters and phone calls. Susan and I still keep in touch from time to time, even that is far between. Maybe one day, I'll run into them all again.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Visitation Tribulations Part 4
Part one
Part two
Part three
This time we are doing the visiting, at NavyNuke's new home in South Carolina. He closed on it the 25th of May and we were there to see it June 1. This, of course, starts with the journey there and the arrival.
The car trip includes: myself, my son (driving), a 4 year and a 3 year old, both of whom had been given digital cameras by the uncle we are on the way to visit. Have you ever noticed that children like to take self portraits? Well they do. The unfortunate thing is that Ballerina figured out how to delete pictures so a lot of hers were lost. Indy on the other hand figured it out but left it to me to delete them, within reason.
We'll start with Ballerina's pictures first. She was after the "guest."
How do you like this pictureof me? I think I'll let her take all of my pictures from now on.
They each had subjects in one another. More on that in a moment.
Had to get a picture of her daddy driving.
She ends with a self- portrait. Okay so it is a picture of her shirt.
Now onto Indy's.
He starts his with aself-portrait.
Then he must have a picture of his yellow crocs to save for prosperity.
Now is the time for more on that matter. Pretty as she is, Ballerina just didn't like to be photographed by Indy. We got to listen to hours of her telling him to stop. Like he would really listen! Not!!!
Finally something else to focus on... Booboos.
YaaaHooo we made it, only what 9-10 hours later. We're here... But where is Nuke. Pull out the cell and start making a call. He's at his apartment just finishing his shower. It's not like we didn't call when we got into town. Oh well, it is just a few minute wait and the kids are having fun.
Playing on the front porch
A picture from the road
The back patio and looksthat need to be watched.
Hey look it comes with its own jail cell for kids.
Maybe I should move there. Nah, we get along, but that might just be pushing it, don't you think?
Part two
Part three
This time we are doing the visiting, at NavyNuke's new home in South Carolina. He closed on it the 25th of May and we were there to see it June 1. This, of course, starts with the journey there and the arrival.
The car trip includes: myself, my son (driving), a 4 year and a 3 year old, both of whom had been given digital cameras by the uncle we are on the way to visit. Have you ever noticed that children like to take self portraits? Well they do. The unfortunate thing is that Ballerina figured out how to delete pictures so a lot of hers were lost. Indy on the other hand figured it out but left it to me to delete them, within reason.
We'll start with Ballerina's pictures first. She was after the "guest."
How do you like this picture
They each had subjects
Had to get a picture of
She ends with a self-
Now onto Indy's.
He starts his with a
Then he must have a
Now is the time for more
Finally something else
YaaaHooo we made it, only what 9-10 hours later. We're here... But where is Nuke. Pull out the cell and start making a call. He's at his apartment just finishing his shower. It's not like we didn't call when we got into town. Oh well, it is just a few minute wait and the kids are having fun.
Playing on the front porch
A picture from the road
The back patio and looks
Hey look it comes with its
Maybe I should move there. Nah, we get along, but that might just be pushing it, don't you think?
Teenage Tribulations
Tue 6/19 Blog Prompt: Moving on in life, as a teenager what do you feel were your greatest achievements and worse mistakes? Have these achievements and/or mistakes helped to make you a better person? Or did they hinder you as you proceeded into adulthood?
Whoa. Greatest achievements as a teenager? What in the world was I thinking about? As with most teenagers I know or have known, it seemed to be a way to stay out of trouble.
All kidding aside though, I don't know if I would consider them achievements, more like strengths, and they would include good grades in school. I loved school, especially science, history, P.E., English and Latin. Oh, that just about covers them all doesn't it? Suffice it to say, I really liked school. I would have been a perpetual student if it didn't mean failing to do so.
As to mistakes, what teen doesn't manage to do that one occasionally. But I think the most embarassing one was when I asked one of my favorite teachers to participate in the Roman slave day we were having. Not thinking and not making the connection when I asked, I was most humilated when I realized why she declined. You see, she was African-American. It was a case of mouth before thought and had I taken the time to think about it, I would have never approached her for this particular event. She definitely was a better person than I that day. No she didn't hold it against me and was most understanding when I figured it out and apologized. Still it was devastating to me.
Did I learn from my achievements and mistakes? I like to think so. I have never stopped loving to learn. And each day brings forth a new discovery. And I now try to think how what I say may affect another before opening my mouth. I still fail on this one, but I try.
Whoa. Greatest achievements as a teenager? What in the world was I thinking about? As with most teenagers I know or have known, it seemed to be a way to stay out of trouble.
All kidding aside though, I don't know if I would consider them achievements, more like strengths, and they would include good grades in school. I loved school, especially science, history, P.E., English and Latin. Oh, that just about covers them all doesn't it? Suffice it to say, I really liked school. I would have been a perpetual student if it didn't mean failing to do so.
As to mistakes, what teen doesn't manage to do that one occasionally. But I think the most embarassing one was when I asked one of my favorite teachers to participate in the Roman slave day we were having. Not thinking and not making the connection when I asked, I was most humilated when I realized why she declined. You see, she was African-American. It was a case of mouth before thought and had I taken the time to think about it, I would have never approached her for this particular event. She definitely was a better person than I that day. No she didn't hold it against me and was most understanding when I figured it out and apologized. Still it was devastating to me.
Did I learn from my achievements and mistakes? I like to think so. I have never stopped loving to learn. And each day brings forth a new discovery. And I now try to think how what I say may affect another before opening my mouth. I still fail on this one, but I try.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Visitation Tribulations Part 3
Part one
Part two
Onto the 3rd installment of Ballerina and Indy's photo journal. After a hard afternoon of playing H2O invading aliens, it was time to decide what to do for dinner. Pan had considered suggesting we go to Bombshell's restaurant but opted out as it was Memorial Day weekend and he was pretty sure the traffic was going to be horrendous.
Scamp and I had to run up to the store (for the guns, of course, and some crocs) when we noticed that there was hardly any traffic at all.
So after playtime was over, we dressed the chitlins in their Dr. Suess shirts and jeans and headed out to Bombshell's. Who, by the way, is now known as Aunt DoDo (like the bird). Ballerina was having a hard time saying her name (funny when we asked her to say it, very clearly it came out "I can't say Aunt Bombshell." She did the same with ddpup too, LOL). Anyway I may have to change Bombshell moniker to DoDo, just because.
Taking a break from work
Aunt DoDo takes Indy and
Ballerina down to the pond
to feed the baby ducks.
Waiting on dinner can
be such a pain. Must
find something to do
to entertain ourselves.
Remember how I told
you that there was a
year's difference in
their ages? Indy is
the younger of the two.
After dinner came the
free face painting, only
the artist, very wisely
chose to put it on their
arms. Indy wanted a spider
(go figure) and his name.
The Ballerina opted for
a unicorn and a cry
baby on her arm.
Look for installment 4 tomorrow
Part two
Onto the 3rd installment of Ballerina and Indy's photo journal. After a hard afternoon of playing H2O invading aliens, it was time to decide what to do for dinner. Pan had considered suggesting we go to Bombshell's restaurant but opted out as it was Memorial Day weekend and he was pretty sure the traffic was going to be horrendous.
Scamp and I had to run up to the store (for the guns, of course, and some crocs) when we noticed that there was hardly any traffic at all.
So after playtime was over, we dressed the chitlins in their Dr. Suess shirts and jeans and headed out to Bombshell's. Who, by the way, is now known as Aunt DoDo (like the bird). Ballerina was having a hard time saying her name (funny when we asked her to say it, very clearly it came out "I can't say Aunt Bombshell." She did the same with ddpup too, LOL). Anyway I may have to change Bombshell moniker to DoDo, just because.
Taking a break from work
Aunt DoDo takes Indy and
Ballerina down to the pond
to feed the baby ducks.
Waiting on dinner can
be such a pain. Must
find something to do
to entertain ourselves.
Remember how I told
you that there was a
year's difference in
their ages? Indy is
the younger of the two.
After dinner came the
free face painting, only
the artist, very wisely
chose to put it on their
arms. Indy wanted a spider
(go figure) and his name.
The Ballerina opted for
a unicorn and a cry
baby on her arm.
Look for installment 4 tomorrow
Childhood Pets = Tribulations
Mon 6/18 Blog Prompt: As a child did you have any exotic (i.e. those not indigenous to your area) or unusual pets? If not, did you have any pets at all? What kind? Did you give them standard pet names or come up with unusual and unique names?
Actually I came up with this prompt after being reminded by someone (I can't recall who) about some of the unusual pets my younger sister and I had throughout our life. Recalling their names at this time is going to be a bit hard as I just don't remember any except the Persian Pan bought me when we first married. Her name was Mini-Mutes and was named after the program he was working on. Very appropriate too, as she never weighed more than 5 lbs., even as an adult. She hardly ever mewed and when she did it was very soft, almost a whisper.
Oh, I've gotten off subject haven't I. Unusual or exotic pets. Actually I have had both.
Back when I was about 6 (maybe 7) mom took ddpup and I shopping just before Easter. There in the store they had the cutest little chicks that were dyed in bright Easter egg colors. Naturally we begged for one and mom, being mom, said no. (I can so relate now). I guess after getting tired of hearing us whine, she said that dad wouldn't let us have one and called him. Dad said yes (I'm surprised she ever talked to him again). So home we go with two little chicks. One a bright blue and one a bright neon pink. I don't recall how long we had them, but it couldn't have been for to very long. We were living on a AF base in AF housing and I am sure that chicks were not deemed appropriate pets. So off to a farm they went.
Later when I was about 10 or 11 and we were staying with my grandmother, my uncle brought home a baby alligator. This was before it was illegal to own them. It was put in a huge wash tin outside and ddpup and I were responsible for feeding it. Being that it was so young this meant hand-feeding. I held its jaws open while ddpup shoved the meat down its throat. At the time, I thought I was in the safe position; but now that I think on it, both jobs were probably not to safe. Even baby alligators have a bit of a bite.
While not unusual or exotic we did have a rabbit while growing up. Cute little thing that would hop up to the fridge to look in when it was opened. It also really liked to help out dad when he was working under the car. I don't think dad appreciated it though.
Most of my other pets growing up were parakeets, cats, dogs, a squirrel here or there, fish, gerbils and so on. You know, typical childhood pets.
Actually I came up with this prompt after being reminded by someone (I can't recall who) about some of the unusual pets my younger sister and I had throughout our life. Recalling their names at this time is going to be a bit hard as I just don't remember any except the Persian Pan bought me when we first married. Her name was Mini-Mutes and was named after the program he was working on. Very appropriate too, as she never weighed more than 5 lbs., even as an adult. She hardly ever mewed and when she did it was very soft, almost a whisper.
Oh, I've gotten off subject haven't I. Unusual or exotic pets. Actually I have had both.
Back when I was about 6 (maybe 7) mom took ddpup and I shopping just before Easter. There in the store they had the cutest little chicks that were dyed in bright Easter egg colors. Naturally we begged for one and mom, being mom, said no. (I can so relate now). I guess after getting tired of hearing us whine, she said that dad wouldn't let us have one and called him. Dad said yes (I'm surprised she ever talked to him again). So home we go with two little chicks. One a bright blue and one a bright neon pink. I don't recall how long we had them, but it couldn't have been for to very long. We were living on a AF base in AF housing and I am sure that chicks were not deemed appropriate pets. So off to a farm they went.
Later when I was about 10 or 11 and we were staying with my grandmother, my uncle brought home a baby alligator. This was before it was illegal to own them. It was put in a huge wash tin outside and ddpup and I were responsible for feeding it. Being that it was so young this meant hand-feeding. I held its jaws open while ddpup shoved the meat down its throat. At the time, I thought I was in the safe position; but now that I think on it, both jobs were probably not to safe. Even baby alligators have a bit of a bite.
While not unusual or exotic we did have a rabbit while growing up. Cute little thing that would hop up to the fridge to look in when it was opened. It also really liked to help out dad when he was working under the car. I don't think dad appreciated it though.
Most of my other pets growing up were parakeets, cats, dogs, a squirrel here or there, fish, gerbils and so on. You know, typical childhood pets.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Visitation Tribulations Part 2
More photo journaling of Ballerina and Scamp's visit. (If you missed Part 1, you can find it here). While it appears that Indy and the Ballerina got along just fine, most of the time they were arguing about one thing or another, LOL. I can laugh now, but it sure wasn't too funny then. They are exactly one year apart in age with Ballerina being the oldest at 4 years. And I am not kidding about the exactly one year. Ballerina's birthday is May 16; Indy's is May 13.
Being a very confident and outgoing little girl, Ballerina expected Indy to obey her every command. She is definitely an "A" personality. Indy on the other hand has an older sister (the Princess) and has perfected the knack of ignoring and brought it to a whole new artform. Needless to say it was an interesting two weeks.
Still there were times they got along perfectly and it was a joy to see them running, playing and laughing together.
Scamp decided that waterguns were needed for the outside play. Indy thought catching the water in his mouth while the Ballerina shot him was most amusing. So did the Ballerina.
But soon the showdown had to commence. Indy shot back.
The Ballerina retaliated and chased Indy into the forest.
Indy gives up; but Ballerina decided it wasn't soon enough and shoots him anyway.
Close-up of Ballerina
Close-up of Indy
Being a very confident and outgoing little girl, Ballerina expected Indy to obey her every command. She is definitely an "A" personality. Indy on the other hand has an older sister (the Princess) and has perfected the knack of ignoring and brought it to a whole new artform. Needless to say it was an interesting two weeks.
Still there were times they got along perfectly and it was a joy to see them running, playing and laughing together.
Scamp decided that water
But soon the showdown
The Ballerina retaliated
Indy gives up; but Ballerina
Close-up of Ballerina
Close-up of Indy
Word of the Week - COMATE
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
comate(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
hairy or tufted.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Visitation Tribulations Part 1
I've been busy. With guests, with traveling and with doctor's visits. But for now let's focus on the guests and traveling. Part one starts on May 25, when my son, Scamp, and granddaughter, the Ballerina, stepped off the plane and into my open arms. I know we just saw them in December. Still it seemed a lifetime away.
And it is just as well we met them at the airport (he asked us to because he wasn't sure he could find his way to Mawmaw's house), as they didn't have his rental car ready. So over to mom's house we head, with a quick call from the Bombshell to see when we would be back home. When she found out it wouldn't be until later, she decided to drive over with the kids too. A whole houseful. Lucky mom,.
On to the pictures.
The Ballerina
The Princess, Indy and Ballerina
Cousins
Cousins outside
And it is just as well we met them at the airport (he asked us to because he wasn't sure he could find his way to Mawmaw's house), as they didn't have his rental car ready. So over to mom's house we head, with a quick call from the Bombshell to see when we would be back home. When she found out it wouldn't be until later, she decided to drive over with the kids too. A whole houseful. Lucky mom,
On to the pictures.
The Ballerina
The Princess, Indy and Ballerina
Cousins
Cousins outside
Monday, June 11, 2007
Comparative Tribulations and More
Mon 6/11 Blog Prompt: How about we start out this week with a little research by finding the cost of a week's subscription to a newspaper, a loaf of bread, a gallon of milk, a pound of chicken or ground beef, a gallon of gasoline, the average cost of a house, the average cost of an automobile and one item of your choosing when you were born, as well as at ages 3, 5, 10 and now.
1956: bread - 18¢/loaf; milk - 97¢/gallon; gas - 30¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $17,800; avg. cost of car - $2,100; avg. income - $5,341/year.
1959: bread - 20¢/loaf; milk - $1.01/gallon; gas - 30¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $18,400; avg. cost of car - $2.250; avg. income - $5,976/year.
1966: bread - 22¢/loaf; milk - $1.11/gallon; gas - 32¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $23,300; avg. cost of car - $2,410; avg. income - $8,395/year.
2007: bread - $1.97/loaf; milk - $3.06/gallon; gas - $3.10/gallon; avg. cost of home - $221,000; avg. cost of car - $23,000; avg. income - $34,334.96/year.
Tue 6/12 Blog Prompt: Did you collect anything as a child? Why or why not? What was the significance of your collection and where did you procure it? Do you still have any or all of the collection now?
I didn't really have a "collection" per se as a child. There were, of course, the Barbies and Barbie houses. Comic books and books. But most were lost (or thrown away) in moving from place to place. When I got to be a pre-teen, I started collecting lions. I am a Leo and the idea of having lions just appealed. Some of those I still have. Like the stuffed lion and clay lions my dad gave me.
There is a picture at my Improvement Tribulations post where you can see some of the lions on the top shelf.
Wed 6/13 Blog Prompt: Did you have specified chores as a child? If so, what were they? Were you given an allowance for completing them? How much? What chores did you feel were unfair? Which ones did you enjoy the most?
You know, I can't remember ever being assigned "chores." I know we had to make our beds and clean our room, but I don't think I ever considered it a chore, just something I hated to do. As we got older, my sister and I had to clean the dishes after dinner. One would wash the other dry. As for the bathroom, everyone was responsible for cleaning up after themselves. After a bath, we had to clean the tub and pick up the towels and put them in the hamper. And, of course, we were responsible for putting away anything we took out. As for which I detested the most... I think all of them equally.
Thu 6/14 Blog Prompt: Did your mother and father work outside the home when you were a child? If not which one stayed home with you? Or did you have a sitter come in or did you attend a day care center? Whether a parent stayed home, you had a sitter or attended a day care, how do you feel that affected your life, if at all?
My mom was a stay at home mom, for the most part. Although while I was in elementary school I do remember her working for a while.
We had a babysitter, Linda. One of the teenagers in the neighborhood who would watch us. We like Linda and didn't feel the least bit slighted by the fact that mom worked.
But for the most part she was home and available for us at anytime. I remember her making Barbie furniture out of milk cartons and beer cans or sewing intricate Barbie dresses for us.
Dad on the other hand, wasn't home alot. He was in the Air Force and was gone on TDY or some other thing.
I wish I could have been more like my parents; but I divorced my first husband so ended up having to work while my children were little. Fortunately I didn't have to start that though until they were all in school.
Fri 6/15 Blog Prompt: You are 10 years old. What are your thoughts about growing up? Were you anxious to be an adult or did the prospect scare you? Did you give any thought to what you wanted to be when you grew up? What was it and did grow up to your dream job?
First off, let me say I haven't realized my dream career... Yet.
At 6, 10, 20 and beyond my dream career was to be an astronomer. It was what I majored in, in college. That is until I decided to get married.
One day.... my name will be among the stars.
1956: bread - 18¢/loaf; milk - 97¢/gallon; gas - 30¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $17,800; avg. cost of car - $2,100; avg. income - $5,341/year.
1959: bread - 20¢/loaf; milk - $1.01/gallon; gas - 30¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $18,400; avg. cost of car - $2.250; avg. income - $5,976/year.
1966: bread - 22¢/loaf; milk - $1.11/gallon; gas - 32¢/gallon; avg. cost of home - $23,300; avg. cost of car - $2,410; avg. income - $8,395/year.
2007: bread - $1.97/loaf; milk - $3.06/gallon; gas - $3.10/gallon; avg. cost of home - $221,000; avg. cost of car - $23,000; avg. income - $34,334.96/year.
Tue 6/12 Blog Prompt: Did you collect anything as a child? Why or why not? What was the significance of your collection and where did you procure it? Do you still have any or all of the collection now?
I didn't really have a "collection" per se as a child. There were, of course, the Barbies and Barbie houses. Comic books and books. But most were lost (or thrown away) in moving from place to place. When I got to be a pre-teen, I started collecting lions. I am a Leo and the idea of having lions just appealed. Some of those I still have. Like the stuffed lion and clay lions my dad gave me.
There is a picture at my Improvement Tribulations post where you can see some of the lions on the top shelf.
Wed 6/13 Blog Prompt: Did you have specified chores as a child? If so, what were they? Were you given an allowance for completing them? How much? What chores did you feel were unfair? Which ones did you enjoy the most?
You know, I can't remember ever being assigned "chores." I know we had to make our beds and clean our room, but I don't think I ever considered it a chore, just something I hated to do. As we got older, my sister and I had to clean the dishes after dinner. One would wash the other dry. As for the bathroom, everyone was responsible for cleaning up after themselves. After a bath, we had to clean the tub and pick up the towels and put them in the hamper. And, of course, we were responsible for putting away anything we took out. As for which I detested the most... I think all of them equally.
Thu 6/14 Blog Prompt: Did your mother and father work outside the home when you were a child? If not which one stayed home with you? Or did you have a sitter come in or did you attend a day care center? Whether a parent stayed home, you had a sitter or attended a day care, how do you feel that affected your life, if at all?
My mom was a stay at home mom, for the most part. Although while I was in elementary school I do remember her working for a while.
We had a babysitter, Linda. One of the teenagers in the neighborhood who would watch us. We like Linda and didn't feel the least bit slighted by the fact that mom worked.
But for the most part she was home and available for us at anytime. I remember her making Barbie furniture out of milk cartons and beer cans or sewing intricate Barbie dresses for us.
Dad on the other hand, wasn't home alot. He was in the Air Force and was gone on TDY or some other thing.
I wish I could have been more like my parents; but I divorced my first husband so ended up having to work while my children were little. Fortunately I didn't have to start that though until they were all in school.
Fri 6/15 Blog Prompt: You are 10 years old. What are your thoughts about growing up? Were you anxious to be an adult or did the prospect scare you? Did you give any thought to what you wanted to be when you grew up? What was it and did grow up to your dream job?
First off, let me say I haven't realized my dream career... Yet.
At 6, 10, 20 and beyond my dream career was to be an astronomer. It was what I majored in, in college. That is until I decided to get married.
One day.... my name will be among the stars.
My Tribulations as Albus
 | You scored as Albus Dumbledore, Strong and powerful you admirably defend your world and your charges against those who would seek to harm them. However sometimes you can fail to do what you must because you care too much to cause suffering.
Your Harry Potter Alter Ego Is...? created with QuizFarm.com |
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Word of the Week - ZAFTIG
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
zaftig(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
having a full, shapely figure; said of a woman.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
A Frog's Tribulations
For those who asked.....
Warning: Never give vague instructions to a child. They take you literally. Honestly, they really do.
I didn't use the story of the frog in the prompt, because I actually think I was older than 3. I could be wrong, maybe a 3 year old can catch a frog. Okay, probably could catch a frog. OKAY... can catch a frog.
But a three year old usually doesn't have the whereforall to ask what you do with a frog that you catch. Again I could be wrong (and I am sure my mother will correct me if I am).
Back to the story. I caught a frog. Couldn't have been a very big one, but I was proud of this frog and asked my folks what to do with it. They told me that frogs like water.
Naturally to a young child any liquid can pass for water, right? RIGHT????? Well, no but the only "water" I could find was my grandmother's ice coffee. PLOP, in goes the frog. Looking back I shutter to think what must have been going through that poor frog's mind. Caffiene rush....
And fortunately for the frog, my grandmother decided she needed a drink soon after instead of 10 or 15 minutes later. Then the result would have probably been a dead frog at the bottom of her coffee cup instead of a frog jumping out of the coffee at her.
Well, maybe I was three after all....
Warning: Never give vague instructions to a child. They take you literally. Honestly, they really do.
I didn't use the story of the frog in the prompt, because I actually think I was older than 3. I could be wrong, maybe a 3 year old can catch a frog. Okay, probably could catch a frog. OKAY... can catch a frog.
But a three year old usually doesn't have the whereforall to ask what you do with a frog that you catch. Again I could be wrong (and I am sure my mother will correct me if I am).
Back to the story. I caught a frog. Couldn't have been a very big one, but I was proud of this frog and asked my folks what to do with it. They told me that frogs like water.
Naturally to a young child any liquid can pass for water, right? RIGHT????? Well, no but the only "water" I could find was my grandmother's ice coffee. PLOP, in goes the frog. Looking back I shutter to think what must have been going through that poor frog's mind. Caffiene rush....
And fortunately for the frog, my grandmother decided she needed a drink soon after instead of 10 or 15 minutes later. Then the result would have probably been a dead frog at the bottom of her coffee cup instead of a frog jumping out of the coffee at her.
Well, maybe I was three after all....
Friday, June 08, 2007
Memory Lane Tribulations
What with the trip to South Carolina and having Scamp and the Ballerina home for two weeks, it seems I don't have time to do anything anymore, LOL. But since I am providing the prompts this month, I thought I might be a good idea if I also did the posts. Maybe next week will be better.
Tue 6/5 Blog Prompt: You are between 5 and 10. You are going on vacation (or moving). What form of transportation was used to get there? Did it take long? And what did you do to entertain yourself while traveling?
Although we did travel by plane, most of my memories are in the car. And being carsick. Something that I, fortunately, have outgrown. With dad in the Air Force we moved around quite a bit.
Mom and dad always bought the newest Superman and Archie comic books for us to read (can you imagine what they might be worth today, lol). And we had car games like license plate bingo. You actually use to be able to buy the bingo cards with windows that slid over when you got it. I tried to do a search but was unable to locate any. Shucks.
Wed 6/6 Blog Prompt: As a child did you have your own bedroom or did you have to share? What was it like? Did you spend a lot of time playing in there or was it reserved for sleeping?
Being an Air Force brat there were times when I would have my own room and times when I would not. Most time I had to share with ddpup. I didn't mind. She was just a little extension of me. I rather thought of her as my baby doll most of the time. We were always playing Barbie's or house in the bedroom. But we spent more time outside when the weather was good, making clover necklaces, playing hide and seek
Thu 6/7 Blog Prompt: Let's move up to elementary school. What school did you attend? What was it like.. big, small, etc.? Did you ride a bus or walk? Take a lunch or buy? What was your best memory there and what was your worse?
As stated above, I'm an AF brat and went to several elementary schools. Spend the longest time in the one in Arkansas; but also went to elementary school in Florida and California. In both Arkansas and Florida I rode a bus; but occasionally in Ark. I could walk to school.
I am sure there were occasions when I actually took my lunch to school; but the lunches I recall the best are hamburgers on Wednesday and fish sticks on Friday.
While there may have been some bad memories (like the year, my dad made the paddle for my teacher in third grade and when I wouldn't finish my work in first grade so I didn't have to go out on the playground, or in 2nd grade when all the kids gathered around the open restroom window to try and watch me tinkle, etc.), most of them are fond and funny. Giving a Valentine card to my favorite guy in 4th grade; my fifth grade teacher telling us that paper was made with worm guts so we would stop chewing it in class; being a TOT (teacher of tomorrow) in 6th grade and having a teacher whose birthday fell on February 29.
One day in sixth grade my uncle brought my telescope up to the school and we all got to watch a solar eclipse through it. I was pretty proud that I was the only one in the class that had a telescope and one with a sun filter at that.
Fri 6/8 Blog Prompt: As a child, did you have any imaginary friends? What were their names and what did you do together? If not, do you wish that you had and why or why not?
I didn't have any imaginary friends so to speak, not like the bug anyway. I had a another little sister who I could play with and we did. Although one year I convinced her that at night I would shrink very little and visit the little people who lived in a hole in the ground in the backyard. During the day, we would gather small rocks and make furniture for the little people.
But bug was another matter all together. She had an imaginary Alligator. She also scared the pants off mom, when on the interstate on time, she started crying about leaving something on the top of the car. I'll leave it to her to complete the story.
From the FP camera that Nuke bought Indy... a picture of the Ballerina.
Tue 6/5 Blog Prompt: You are between 5 and 10. You are going on vacation (or moving). What form of transportation was used to get there? Did it take long? And what did you do to entertain yourself while traveling?
Although we did travel by plane, most of my memories are in the car. And being carsick. Something that I, fortunately, have outgrown. With dad in the Air Force we moved around quite a bit.
Mom and dad always bought the newest Superman and Archie comic books for us to read (can you imagine what they might be worth today, lol). And we had car games like license plate bingo. You actually use to be able to buy the bingo cards with windows that slid over when you got it. I tried to do a search but was unable to locate any. Shucks.
Wed 6/6 Blog Prompt: As a child did you have your own bedroom or did you have to share? What was it like? Did you spend a lot of time playing in there or was it reserved for sleeping?
Being an Air Force brat there were times when I would have my own room and times when I would not. Most time I had to share with ddpup. I didn't mind. She was just a little extension of me. I rather thought of her as my baby doll most of the time. We were always playing Barbie's or house in the bedroom. But we spent more time outside when the weather was good, making clover necklaces, playing hide and seek
Thu 6/7 Blog Prompt: Let's move up to elementary school. What school did you attend? What was it like.. big, small, etc.? Did you ride a bus or walk? Take a lunch or buy? What was your best memory there and what was your worse?
As stated above, I'm an AF brat and went to several elementary schools. Spend the longest time in the one in Arkansas; but also went to elementary school in Florida and California. In both Arkansas and Florida I rode a bus; but occasionally in Ark. I could walk to school.
I am sure there were occasions when I actually took my lunch to school; but the lunches I recall the best are hamburgers on Wednesday and fish sticks on Friday.
While there may have been some bad memories (like the year, my dad made the paddle for my teacher in third grade and when I wouldn't finish my work in first grade so I didn't have to go out on the playground, or in 2nd grade when all the kids gathered around the open restroom window to try and watch me tinkle, etc.), most of them are fond and funny. Giving a Valentine card to my favorite guy in 4th grade; my fifth grade teacher telling us that paper was made with worm guts so we would stop chewing it in class; being a TOT (teacher of tomorrow) in 6th grade and having a teacher whose birthday fell on February 29.
One day in sixth grade my uncle brought my telescope up to the school and we all got to watch a solar eclipse through it. I was pretty proud that I was the only one in the class that had a telescope and one with a sun filter at that.
Fri 6/8 Blog Prompt: As a child, did you have any imaginary friends? What were their names and what did you do together? If not, do you wish that you had and why or why not?
I didn't have any imaginary friends so to speak, not like the bug anyway. I had a another little sister who I could play with and we did. Although one year I convinced her that at night I would shrink very little and visit the little people who lived in a hole in the ground in the backyard. During the day, we would gather small rocks and make furniture for the little people.
But bug was another matter all together. She had an imaginary Alligator. She also scared the pants off mom, when on the interstate on time, she started crying about leaving something on the top of the car. I'll leave it to her to complete the story.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Tribulations of What to Title This
Since today's Prompt is about travels, I wanted to make sure I didn't give them the same titles.
We are back from South Carolina and seeing Nuke's new home (and his old rental). He already has big plans for changing it. Ripping out carpets and putting in hardwood floors. He was hoping that the two of us could go check them out but there just wasn't enough time.
Spent more money that I should have making sure we had something to entertain the kids on the way home. The cameras were loosing their luster after 10 hours up there, LOL.
It is nice to be home and back to my own bed; but it was more than wonderful to see the Nuke. We are already planning on going back sometime this summer and taking the Princess since she didn't get to go.
More later.....
We are back from South Carolina and seeing Nuke's new home (and his old rental). He already has big plans for changing it. Ripping out carpets and putting in hardwood floors. He was hoping that the two of us could go check them out but there just wasn't enough time.
Spent more money that I should have making sure we had something to entertain the kids on the way home. The cameras were loosing their luster after 10 hours up there, LOL.
It is nice to be home and back to my own bed; but it was more than wonderful to see the Nuke. We are already planning on going back sometime this summer and taking the Princess since she didn't get to go.
More later.....
Monday, June 04, 2007
Stories of Tribulations
Mon 6/4 Blog Prompt: We all have had stories told to us about our younger years. Fun, silly or embarassing things we have done. So today, think about a story that you were told about yourself that happened before you were 3 years old.
I remember one that my mom use to tell me about when we went to visit we were going to visit some friends of theirs once. I was just at that age where babies start to walk. And my parents, being the proud young parents they were, wanted me walk before getting over there. No amount of incentive could convince me that walking was worth my while.
Still happy being proud young parents, my parents took me over and proudly showed me off, when I started walking.
I remember one that my mom use to tell me about when we went to visit we were going to visit some friends of theirs once. I was just at that age where babies start to walk. And my parents, being the proud young parents they were, wanted me walk before getting over there. No amount of incentive could convince me that walking was worth my while.
Still happy being proud young parents, my parents took me over and proudly showed me off, when I started walking.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Word of the Week - COLLOP
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
collop(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
a portion or piece; esp. a small slice of meat.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Travels & Tribulations
We finally made it to SC and NavyNukes new house. Ballerina and Indy were pretty good on the way up. For the most part. Though I am not sure I am looking forward to the return trip on Monday.
The Nuke's house is similar to mom's on the outside; but I think that is pretty much the only place. I love the taupe color on the walls in the kitchen, dining and living rooms. The main bath is long with the sink on one side and a deep tub/shower on the other with the toilet at the end. I just realized all the rooms are taupe with white trim except the hallway which is light yellow with gold feather dusting.
You can tell he is a bachelor by the very fact that is furnishings consist of a mattress to sleep on; excercise machines and computer chairs.
Well, I think while everyone is still asleep, I may go out and give my sister a call.
The Nuke's house is similar to mom's on the outside; but I think that is pretty much the only place. I love the taupe color on the walls in the kitchen, dining and living rooms. The main bath is long with the sink on one side and a deep tub/shower on the other with the toilet at the end. I just realized all the rooms are taupe with white trim except the hallway which is light yellow with gold feather dusting.
You can tell he is a bachelor by the very fact that is furnishings consist of a mattress to sleep on; excercise machines and computer chairs.
Well, I think while everyone is still asleep, I may go out and give my sister a call.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Memorable Tribulations
Fri 6/1 Blog Prompt: What was your first memory as a child and why do you think it stands out in your mind?
The actual first memory I have have is running out of my grandmother's house buck-naked. Why? I can't remember; but probably would have had to do with getting in trouble. I was good at that. Or possibly trying to get out of taking a bath.
Why should this memory of a 2-3 year stand out? I am sure that it has something to do about running around the neighborhood in the buff.
The actual first memory I have have is running out of my grandmother's house buck-naked. Why? I can't remember; but probably would have had to do with getting in trouble. I was good at that. Or possibly trying to get out of taking a bath.
Why should this memory of a 2-3 year stand out? I am sure that it has something to do about running around the neighborhood in the buff.
Thurs 5/31 Blog Prompt: Since today is Teriffic Thursday, we need something for a positive attitude today. Tell about something that made you smile yesterday or today.
Of course having the Ballerina and Scamp home makes me smile; but today it was Indy who brought the smile out. Nuke sent Ballerina and Indy Fisher Price digital cameras for their respective birthdays. While Ballerina really likes her; Indy was in love with it. He took close ups of all his toys; ran around taking pictures of Ballerina (muct to her dismay) and anything else he could think of. His favorite subject was the 3 foot spider. Pictures will be forthcoming (soon). Just to see his joy and happiness at being able to take his own pictures brought forth that smile reserved for him.
Of course having the Ballerina and Scamp home makes me smile; but today it was Indy who brought the smile out. Nuke sent Ballerina and Indy Fisher Price digital cameras for their respective birthdays. While Ballerina really likes her; Indy was in love with it. He took close ups of all his toys; ran around taking pictures of Ballerina (muct to her dismay) and anything else he could think of. His favorite subject was the 3 foot spider. Pictures will be forthcoming (soon). Just to see his joy and happiness at being able to take his own pictures brought forth that smile reserved for him.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Childish Tribulations
Wed 5/30 Blog Prompt: If you could be child for one day, how old would you be and what would you do?
Are we talking here about chosing an age for one day and living in the present or having chosen an age, time would be as it was when we were that age?
If I could be a child for one day but had to live in the present, I think I would pass. I know each generation has their problems but this one seems to have them in excess. The Princess' doctor and I concur that no 6 year old should have the stress thrust upon children these day to compete academically, physically and emotionally. They should have time to relax, play make-believe and compete with one another in areas that are important to them.
But if we are talking about reliving a favored childhood memory, well then there are a lot I would choose. Only one, huh?
Then in that case I would pick to be 7 again. Only it would be early night, not during the day. Mom, my sister and I would be in the front yard, sitting or laying on the grass looking at the stars. Mom would be pointing them out and we would try to guess which constellation they were.
Are we talking here about chosing an age for one day and living in the present or having chosen an age, time would be as it was when we were that age?
If I could be a child for one day but had to live in the present, I think I would pass. I know each generation has their problems but this one seems to have them in excess. The Princess' doctor and I concur that no 6 year old should have the stress thrust upon children these day to compete academically, physically and emotionally. They should have time to relax, play make-believe and compete with one another in areas that are important to them.
But if we are talking about reliving a favored childhood memory, well then there are a lot I would choose. Only one, huh?
Then in that case I would pick to be 7 again. Only it would be early night, not during the day. Mom, my sister and I would be in the front yard, sitting or laying on the grass looking at the stars. Mom would be pointing them out and we would try to guess which constellation they were.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Learning Tribulations
Tues 5/29 Blog Prompt: I wish I could learn..... because.....
to be more patient and understanding so that maybe my stress level would be nigh unto non-existent.
And maybe I could learn to laugh a little more. Learn to see the humor that is around me each and everyday. Right now, laughter, patience and understanding seem to be taking a backseat to just managing to get by as I listen and watch a 3 year old and a 4 year old decide who is right.
The 4 year old is bossy and the 3 year old has selective hearing. And both think everything belongs to them. Pan has it the worse though.
to be more patient and understanding so that maybe my stress level would be nigh unto non-existent.
And maybe I could learn to laugh a little more. Learn to see the humor that is around me each and everyday. Right now, laughter, patience and understanding seem to be taking a backseat to just managing to get by as I listen and watch a 3 year old and a 4 year old decide who is right.
The 4 year old is bossy and the 3 year old has selective hearing. And both think everything belongs to them. Pan has it the worse though.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Guests, Prompts & Tribulations
They are here. Ballerina and the Scamp have met to town. It is so good to see them again, but it has not been completely without trouble. We had to take the Ballerina to the ER last night. She has a middle ear infection in both ears. And while she and Indy have managed to play well together, there is definitely a need to compete; both for toys and for Pan. Maybe today will be better (crossing my fingers, LOL).
Wed 5/23 Blog Prompt: I wish I didn't have to eat...... I don't like this food because.....
At this point in my life, I can pretty much eat what I want and not eat what I don't like. Though I think I have never wanted to eat escargo. Not real big on clams or oysters either. Eww, slimy. Or at least that is how I think they would be. Funny though, just about all my kids will eat them. But then again they suck crawdad heads too.
Thurs 5/24 Blog Prompt: Describe the best teacher you ever had.
I don't know that I can just pinpoint it to one teacher. They all have had some kind of impact on my life. Those I remember best made learning fun. My latin/English teacher from hs... Mrs. Allen; biology teachers, Mrs. Sears and Mr. Behrens and so the list goes on.
Fri 5/25 Blog Prompt: I wish I could see...... because.....
The rings of Saturn right now. I wish I had my telescope again. Four of the planets can be seen this month and it would have been nice to gaze upon them.
Mon 5/28 Blog Prompt: How does your city celebrate this day or do you do anything special? Do you know anyone who has served in the military? If so, let us know so that we can honor all of those who serve their country.
I believe our cities are having picnics throughout our numerous parks; but then I didn't keep up with it as my own Marine son came into town with his daughter. So we will stay at home, watch Indy and Ballerina play out in the yard & water, probably; then either cook out hamburgers and hot dogs or maybe I'll fry up some drummettes this morning and we can just nibble on them all day. We'll see.
And do I know anyone who has served in the military?I should say so.
Air Force: my father, a co-worker, numerous friends. (I live near an AF base)
Army: my cousin
Marines: Scamp, Bear, Pan's brother, my uncle
Navy: NavyNuke, my FIL, one of my other uncles.
So for my family, friends and all those who serve: THANK YOU.
Wed 5/23 Blog Prompt: I wish I didn't have to eat...... I don't like this food because.....
At this point in my life, I can pretty much eat what I want and not eat what I don't like. Though I think I have never wanted to eat escargo. Not real big on clams or oysters either. Eww, slimy. Or at least that is how I think they would be. Funny though, just about all my kids will eat them. But then again they suck crawdad heads too.
Thurs 5/24 Blog Prompt: Describe the best teacher you ever had.
I don't know that I can just pinpoint it to one teacher. They all have had some kind of impact on my life. Those I remember best made learning fun. My latin/English teacher from hs... Mrs. Allen; biology teachers, Mrs. Sears and Mr. Behrens and so the list goes on.
Fri 5/25 Blog Prompt: I wish I could see...... because.....
The rings of Saturn right now. I wish I had my telescope again. Four of the planets can be seen this month and it would have been nice to gaze upon them.
Mon 5/28 Blog Prompt: How does your city celebrate this day or do you do anything special? Do you know anyone who has served in the military? If so, let us know so that we can honor all of those who serve their country.
I believe our cities are having picnics throughout our numerous parks; but then I didn't keep up with it as my own Marine son came into town with his daughter. So we will stay at home, watch Indy and Ballerina play out in the yard & water, probably; then either cook out hamburgers and hot dogs or maybe I'll fry up some drummettes this morning and we can just nibble on them all day. We'll see.
And do I know anyone who has served in the military?
Air Force: my father, a co-worker, numerous friends. (I live near an AF base)
Army: my cousin
Marines: Scamp, Bear, Pan's brother, my uncle
Navy: NavyNuke, my FIL, one of my other uncles.
So for my family, friends and all those who serve: THANK YOU.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Word of the Week - REFLUENT
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
refluent(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
flowing back; ebbing, as the sea.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Belated Birthday Tribulations
I have been so bad. I have been getting so excited about the Scamp and Ballerina coming for a two week visit that I completely forgot to post a Happy Birthday to her. On Wednesday, May 16, little Ballerina turned 4 years old.
So Ballerina from Pan and Tink.... A Great Big
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
SWEETHEART
Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.
www.ImageShack.us
So Ballerina from Pan and Tink.... A Great Big
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
SWEETHEART
Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.
www.ImageShack.us
Thursday, May 24, 2007
A Rant of a Tribulation
Yes, I am ranting. I should actually be catching up on blog prompts but I am sooooo mad. I would like to know what happened to "the customer is always right." Anybody know? Anybody?
It started earlier this week (like on Saturday) when Pan made a call the insurance company to see about getting my windshield replaced. It's got a crack across it. And if you live in Florida, insurance companies pay the cost of replacement. (I'm sure our insurance rates are a little higher because of it, as well). Anyway they gave him the name of the company they want us to use.
Pan calls, gets perky little Wendy on the phone who says they can come on Tuesday, 1-4. We can't do it Tuesday, I work. Thursday then, 9-12 or 1-4. Again I work (he had already told her this to begin with). So let's try one more time... Friday 9-12 or 1-4. Friday morning would be great, as I am going out of town Friday afternoon.
Wendy calls me today to say they aren't going to make it out until tomorrow afternoon. "Wendy, I'm not happy about this. I have to leave tomorrow afternoon," I reply more than tersely. Well according to her this is the only time I can have it done or wait. "Can you have them there by one?" the ice is filtering through the phone I am sure. "No." "I need a time, Wendy." "No. Can't guarantee a time." "Can you at least make sure they are there before three?" as the volcano of a headache starts to erupt and the speech grows louder to compensate for the lack of my being able to hear what I am saying. "No." "I will call you back."
Pan called back and they are coming tomorrow. If they don't show until 4:00, I will be making a complaint to the insurance company, the company itself and the better business bureau and anybody else you can think of. Forget that I am going to making a complaint no matter what.
Maybe I should have mentioned to her that I worked for a newspaper and we were thinking about doing an article on how businesses fail to live up to their responsibilities and hire nincompoops to man their phones.
It started earlier this week (like on Saturday) when Pan made a call the insurance company to see about getting my windshield replaced. It's got a crack across it. And if you live in Florida, insurance companies pay the cost of replacement. (I'm sure our insurance rates are a little higher because of it, as well). Anyway they gave him the name of the company they want us to use.
Pan calls, gets perky little Wendy on the phone who says they can come on Tuesday, 1-4. We can't do it Tuesday, I work. Thursday then, 9-12 or 1-4. Again I work (he had already told her this to begin with). So let's try one more time... Friday 9-12 or 1-4. Friday morning would be great, as I am going out of town Friday afternoon.
Wendy calls me today to say they aren't going to make it out until tomorrow afternoon. "Wendy, I'm not happy about this. I have to leave tomorrow afternoon," I reply more than tersely. Well according to her this is the only time I can have it done or wait. "Can you have them there by one?" the ice is filtering through the phone I am sure. "No." "I need a time, Wendy." "No. Can't guarantee a time." "Can you at least make sure they are there before three?" as the volcano of a headache starts to erupt and the speech grows louder to compensate for the lack of my being able to hear what I am saying. "No." "I will call you back."
Pan called back and they are coming tomorrow. If they don't show until 4:00, I will be making a complaint to the insurance company, the company itself and the better business bureau and anybody else you can think of. Forget that I am going to making a complaint no matter what.
Maybe I should have mentioned to her that I worked for a newspaper and we were thinking about doing an article on how businesses fail to live up to their responsibilities and hire nincompoops to man their phones.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.... Secrets are such Tribulations
I have a blog brother. Yep, my blog mother, real life baby sister, went and had another. Is she ever going to learn? Probably not.
His posts are a verbal creation into the mind of a father wannabe along with the trials and tribulations he and his wife are having to endure to make that vision a reality.
So without further ado, I am pleased to present my blog brother
MATTHEW of Maybe Baby
Go give him a big welcome into the Bad Example Family.
His posts are a verbal creation into the mind of a father wannabe along with the trials and tribulations he and his wife are having to endure to make that vision a reality.
So without further ado, I am pleased to present my blog brother
MATTHEW of Maybe Baby
Go give him a big welcome into the Bad Example Family.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Update to Movie Meme
For those who have been taking a gander and those who just wondered the answers are now on the post Movie Plots & Tribulations of a Meme Kind. The name of the movie is below the keywords.
I really had fun with this; just wished more had played. I thought I came up with a variety of movies; all of which Pan and I own except #7 and that is soon to be added to our collection.
In the meantime, does anyone remember the name of the movie with the talking bomb which I believe was done either by George Lucas or Stephen Spielburg?
I really had fun with this; just wished more had played. I thought I came up with a variety of movies; all of which Pan and I own except #7 and that is soon to be added to our collection.
In the meantime, does anyone remember the name of the movie with the talking bomb which I believe was done either by George Lucas or Stephen Spielburg?
Word of the Week - VOLANT
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
volant(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. flying or capable of flying
2. nimble; agile; quick
3. [heraldry] represented as flying.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Movie Plots & Tribulations of a Meme Kind
Rachel of Pereiraville tagged me with a very interesting meme:
Let's see if you can figure them out:
1. Dracula; Gunfight; Synthetic Blood; Redemption; Engineer
Sundown: Vampire in Retreat
(1991) Starring David Carradine; Bruce Campbell; Deborah Foreman; M. Emmet Walsh; Morgan Brittany
2. Naval Battle; Plague; Whist; Yellow Fever; Megalomaniac
Captain Horatio Hornblower, R.N.
(1951) Starring Gregory Peck; Virginia Mayo; Christopher Lee
3. Pinball; Greek Mythology; Remake; Animated Sequence; Artist
Xanadu
(1980) Starring Gene Kelly; Olivia Newton-John; Michael Beck; Joe Mantegna
4. Independence Day; Father; Fourth Of July; Missing Child; Medical Doctor
Asteroid
(1997) Starring Michael Biehn; Annabella Sciorra; Don Franklin; Michael Wetherly; Anthony Zerbe
5. Speech; Singing In Shower; Dog; Locker Room; Stroke
Dave
(1993) Kevin Kline; Sigourney Weaver; Frank Langella; Ving Rahmes; Ben Kingsley
6. Absurd Violence; TV Show In Film; Disturbing; Bizarre; Phone
Videodrome
(1983) Starring James Woods; Deborah Harry
7. Space; Astronaut; Mirror; Space Travel; Spacecraft Accident
Doppelganger
(1969) Starring Roy Thinnes
8. Artificial Intelligence; Computer; Mathematics; Nuclear Threat; Scientist
Colossus: The Forbin Project
(1970) Starring Eric Braeden; Susan Clark; Marion Ross
9. Castration; Mansion; Hanging; Decapitation; Slasher
April Fool's Day
(1986) Starring Deborah Foreman; Jay Baker; Tom Heaton
10. Cocktail Party; U.S. Air Force; Torero; Count Down; General
Fail-Safe
((1964) Starring Dan O'Herlihy; Walter Matthau; Henry Fonda; Larry Hagman; Ed Binns
1. the Bug
2. Sticks
3. Matt
And whoever else would like to play along.
Now I guess I need to find out if we are ever suppose to post the answers.
Pick out ten favorite movies, then look them up at IMDb. In the overview at the top of each movie’s page, there are “Plot Keywords,” usually five of them. (Plus more, if you click the link.) Take the first five, and post them. Then the rest of us get to play movie buff and see if we can guess them.
Let's see if you can figure them out:
1. Dracula; Gunfight; Synthetic Blood; Redemption; Engineer
Sundown: Vampire in Retreat
(1991) Starring David Carradine; Bruce Campbell; Deborah Foreman; M. Emmet Walsh; Morgan Brittany
2. Naval Battle; Plague; Whist; Yellow Fever; Megalomaniac
Captain Horatio Hornblower, R.N.
(1951) Starring Gregory Peck; Virginia Mayo; Christopher Lee
3. Pinball; Greek Mythology; Remake; Animated Sequence; Artist
Xanadu
(1980) Starring Gene Kelly; Olivia Newton-John; Michael Beck; Joe Mantegna
4. Independence Day; Father; Fourth Of July; Missing Child; Medical Doctor
Asteroid
(1997) Starring Michael Biehn; Annabella Sciorra; Don Franklin; Michael Wetherly; Anthony Zerbe
5. Speech; Singing In Shower; Dog; Locker Room; Stroke
Dave
(1993) Kevin Kline; Sigourney Weaver; Frank Langella; Ving Rahmes; Ben Kingsley
6. Absurd Violence; TV Show In Film; Disturbing; Bizarre; Phone
Videodrome
(1983) Starring James Woods; Deborah Harry
7. Space; Astronaut; Mirror; Space Travel; Spacecraft Accident
Doppelganger
(1969) Starring Roy Thinnes
8. Artificial Intelligence; Computer; Mathematics; Nuclear Threat; Scientist
Colossus: The Forbin Project
(1970) Starring Eric Braeden; Susan Clark; Marion Ross
9. Castration; Mansion; Hanging; Decapitation; Slasher
April Fool's Day
(1986) Starring Deborah Foreman; Jay Baker; Tom Heaton
10. Cocktail Party; U.S. Air Force; Torero; Count Down; General
Fail-Safe
((1964) Starring Dan O'Herlihy; Walter Matthau; Henry Fonda; Larry Hagman; Ed Binns
1. the Bug
2. Sticks
3. Matt
And whoever else would like to play along.
Now I guess I need to find out if we are ever suppose to post the answers.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Honestly Trib! No Whines Here
Tues 5/15 Blog Prompt: What is most important to you in a friend--loyalty, generosity, honesty--why?
Not on the list here, but trust is an important factor in my friendly relationships. I need to know that I can spill my guts, so to speak and know that my friend is going realize it is just a release. Honesty and loyalty follow in a close tie for second.
Wed 5/16 Blog Prompt: List the 5 things that annoy you the most. If you are like me, this can change from day to day, but tell me the recent annoyances that have just gotten on your nerves.
I can't think at 8:30 in the morning. Things that got on my nerves yesterday, seem to have flitted right out of my head. Maybe it is because I didn't get enough sleep. But here it goes:
Not on the list here, but trust is an important factor in my friendly relationships. I need to know that I can spill my guts, so to speak and know that my friend is going realize it is just a release. Honesty and loyalty follow in a close tie for second.
Wed 5/16 Blog Prompt: List the 5 things that annoy you the most. If you are like me, this can change from day to day, but tell me the recent annoyances that have just gotten on your nerves.
I can't think at 8:30 in the morning. Things that got on my nerves yesterday, seem to have flitted right out of my head. Maybe it is because I didn't get enough sleep. But here it goes:
1. Co-workers who think they know everything and like to let you know.
2. Co-workers who feel impelled to ply you with hundreds of baby pictures of the same baby doing the same thing. Especially when you have just gotten back from
vacation and are trying to get caught up.
3. People who say they are going to call and then don't.
4. Pans who are with the kid in one room while I'm in another and fail to tell me when said kid leaves his sight. Okay, I have to admit, Pan doesn't do this anymore, but it use to bug me.
5. Nurse-practioners who spend 5 minutes looking in your ears, your throat and listening to you breath; ask what you think is wrong and then charge $70 for your own diagnosis.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Tribulations of Me: A Scrapbooking Challenge
Karen of Scraps of Mind has posed a challenge for scrapbookers everywhere. Fortunately it is the same challenge SNL's Blast from the Past is this month. So I can peg two birds with one golf ball.
Here is a layout of me. One picture is from my marriage to Pan in 1989; the other is a picture of Pan, the Ballerina, Scamp, Honey and me on Waikiki Beach in December 2006.
And what it says:
Hopes, Dreams & Aspirations
So many years, so many dreams. By the time you have reached half a century, many of your dreams, hopes & aspirations have either been realized or discarded. But one dream still lives from childhood days. To be an astronomer. It was what I majored in at college and maybe one day I'll go back and finish.
Husbands, Kids & Pets
Two husband, 3 kids, 3 grandkids and numerous pets have wandered through my life. Glad to be rid of husband #one and fortunate to be married to Hubby #two. Three fabulous kids who by their acts make me proud to be their mother. Two granddaughters & one grandson are my world now.
Here is a layout of me. One picture is from my marriage to Pan in 1989; the other is a picture of Pan, the Ballerina, Scamp, Honey and me on Waikiki Beach in December 2006.
And what it says:
Hopes, Dreams & Aspirations
So many years, so many dreams. By the time you have reached half a century, many of your dreams, hopes & aspirations have either been realized or discarded. But one dream still lives from childhood days. To be an astronomer. It was what I majored in at college and maybe one day I'll go back and finish.
Husbands, Kids & Pets
Two husband, 3 kids, 3 grandkids and numerous pets have wandered through my life. Glad to be rid of husband #one and fortunate to be married to Hubby #two. Three fabulous kids who by their acts make me proud to be their mother. Two granddaughters & one grandson are my world now.
Birthday Tribulations of 3 Year Old & a Special
Birthday wish to Love2Scrap, whose birthday apparently coincides with Indy's, both of which occurred on Mother's Day.
Indy turned 3 years old yesterday and I swear he grew a foot taller. Then again I haven't seen him in a week.
The young man he is with here is a whooping 8 years old. (I don't know if you can make out what is on the shirt but it says "I tried to be good but I got bored." Indy needs a shirt like that.)
Since Indy is obsessed with Star Wars, he naturally had to have a Star Wars party; complete with blow up lightsabers that glowed when you squeezed the handle to a cake decorated with his favorite character. I love the DV candle holder. And did you notice the snacks being served at this toddler's party? No candy; a few cookies; but mainly chips and salsa with a couple of veggie trays.
Not one to wait, Indy promptly put his plate on the floor and started eating, sans a fork. Once he started there was no stopping for fork, spoon or guests trying to get by.
Now isn't that just a satisfied face for a three year old?
Indy turned 3 years old yesterday and I swear he grew a foot taller. Then again I haven't seen him in a week.
The young man he is with here is a whooping 8 years old. (I don't know if you can make out what is on the shirt but it says "I tried to be good but I got bored." Indy needs a shirt like that.)
Since Indy is obsessed with Star Wars, he naturally had to have a Star Wars party; complete with blow up lightsabers that glowed when you squeezed the handle to a cake decorated with his favorite character. I love the DV candle holder. And did you notice the snacks being served at this toddler's party? No candy; a few cookies; but mainly chips and salsa with a couple of veggie trays.
Not one to wait, Indy promptly put his plate on the floor and started eating, sans a fork. Once he started there was no stopping for fork, spoon or guests trying to get by.
Now isn't that just a satisfied face for a three year old?
HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY INDY
Foolish Tribulations
Mon 5/14 Blog Prompt: What do you think is the most foolish thing you’ve done in your life?
Gosh there are a number of them and I am sure that my mother can add to my list as well. Quitting college; marrying my first husband, and so goes the list. So I am having a hard time thinking of just one really foolish thing.
Okay, there is one. But it is a private one that I will share with no one. Now you can just use your imaginations and decide what you think the one foolish thing was....
Gosh there are a number of them and I am sure that my mother can add to my list as well. Quitting college; marrying my first husband, and so goes the list. So I am having a hard time thinking of just one really foolish thing.
Okay, there is one. But it is a private one that I will share with no one. Now you can just use your imaginations and decide what you think the one foolish thing was....
A Belated Friday Tribulation
Fri 5/11 Blog Prompt: Where would you prefer to be right now--mountains, desert, beach--and why?
Antartica would be a nice start. It is already starting to get hot here with the highs in the 90's during the day and being near the water, that means lots of humidity too. And did anyone (Loony especially) notice that we have already had a named subtropical storm? While I am not on the east coast, these means that hurricane season is getting started a little early. I can only hope they stay out of the gulf.
And when did they start naming sub-tropical storms?
Antartica would be a nice start. It is already starting to get hot here with the highs in the 90's during the day and being near the water, that means lots of humidity too. And did anyone (Loony especially) notice that we have already had a named subtropical storm? While I am not on the east coast, these means that hurricane season is getting started a little early. I can only hope they stay out of the gulf.
And when did they start naming sub-tropical storms?
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Word of the Week - VICINAL
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
vicinal(adj)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. neighboring; nearby
2. designating a road that is local and not a highway
3. [mineralogy] designating faces on a crystal that approximate or take the place of fundamental planes.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Tribulations of Superman's Mom
In my Tribulations of a TV Mom, I chose Martha Kent from the Lois & Clark television series.
Karen of Scraps of Mind (if you haven't ever checked out her blog, you should) made this comment:
Karen of Scraps of Mind (if you haven't ever checked out her blog, you should) made this comment:
"How can you say that Superman would have been hard to raise Tink. The boy never put a foot wrong. Never got into trouble with the law. Never brought undesirable girlfriends home. Never was seen in disreputable place. And, perhaps most importantly of all, could lift up the couch when she was vacuuming."
And my response:
Have you seen him when he has gotten ahold of red kryptonite? What about as a youngster while being instilled with the morals and values that he was raised with? Can you imagine having to deal with a super toddler having a temper tantrum? (and if there is a toddler out there who hasn't had one, I'd like to meet them.) You may end up with matchsticks of a couch to vacuum up and at that point you wouldn't have to have him lift the couch for you. Raising a "super" child, to me anyway, would seem to be an impossible task.
Then there are the teenage hormones to deal with. To get a good idea of what Clark Kent may have been like as a teenager, you really should watch "Smallville." In one episode, against his parents objections, he joins the football team. (Sound like any kids you know?); in another, under the influence of red kryptonite, he races to Las Vegas and gets married to that 'disreputable girl'. Yep, I think the Kents had their hands full with a "super" child to raise.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Tribulations of a TV Mom - Martha Kent
Wed 5/9 Blog Prompt: Since Mother's Day is approaching, who do you think was the best TV mom and why?
Martha Kent from Lois & Clark is the best television mom. She is strong, sure of herself and is not afraid to try new things even as she gets older. She sees the best in everyone; but not to the detriment to her own values and morals. Besides she raised Superman; no easy feat I would imagine.
Martha Kent from Lois & Clark is the best television mom. She is strong, sure of herself and is not afraid to try new things even as she gets older. She sees the best in everyone; but not to the detriment to her own values and morals. Besides she raised Superman; no easy feat I would imagine.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Safety Tribulations
Tues 5/8 Blog Prompt: What makes you feel safe?
Confidence in my abilities; wisdom to see what I need to do; the love of my family; Pan love and trust in me. All of these make me feel safe.
Confidence in my abilities; wisdom to see what I need to do; the love of my family; Pan love and trust in me. All of these make me feel safe.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Scrapbook Tribulations of a Comically Dinner Ghost
Thurs 5/3 Blog Prompt: You have heard that the President and his wife of an obscure country is coming to visit and picked you (and your family if you want) to have dinner with. You can decide to cook for them or order in or take them out. What 5 dishes would you want them to taste? They can be any part of a meal (appetizers, main dish, vegetables, salads, desserts) or all of one type (all desserts for example).
What a great prompt. And for at least one dish I have something to fall back on. When Scamp was visiting his in-laws in Japan, he called me for the recipe for Chicken and Dumplings. My list would then look something like this:
Chicken and Dumplings
Turnip Greens with scallions and cornbread
Meatloaf
Pan's hamburgers and finally
Grilled steaks with Heritage tomato & mozzarella salad
I think I'm getting hungry.
Fri 5/4 Blog Prompt: Tomorrow is Free Comic Book Day where I live (see http://www.freecomicbookday.com/ch_timeline.asp) Hopefully this will be easier for y'all. Who are your 5 Favorite Comic/Cartoon characters?
Okay, I have to admit, I love Superman, okay, not really Superman, but Clark Kent. Yeah I know he is not the super hero; but to have to keep such a secret and still act normal. That is amazing. We watch Smallville and have the Lois and Clark series on dvd. Oh you want 4 more? Ohhhh and they don't have to be superheroes? Not that that really helps.
2. Batman
3. Jughead
4. Smurfs
5. Green Arrow
Weekend Blogging 5/5-5/6: I posted a layout to commemorate National Scrapbooking Day brought to us by Karooch.
I didn't get to participate on any online activities or even paper activities since I had been on the road and at Universal Studios that day. Though if you look below you can find a layout I did of my nephew, Tot.
Mon 5/7 Blog Prompt: What do you think about ghosts?
Not much as long as they leave me alone. Actually I'm not really sure how I feel about them. Being as that I have never really seen one, I can't discount that others may have.
What a great prompt. And for at least one dish I have something to fall back on. When Scamp was visiting his in-laws in Japan, he called me for the recipe for Chicken and Dumplings. My list would then look something like this:
Chicken and Dumplings
Turnip Greens with scallions and cornbread
Meatloaf
Pan's hamburgers and finally
Grilled steaks with Heritage tomato & mozzarella salad
I think I'm getting hungry.
Fri 5/4 Blog Prompt: Tomorrow is Free Comic Book Day where I live (see http://www.freecomicbookday.com/ch_timeline.asp) Hopefully this will be easier for y'all. Who are your 5 Favorite Comic/Cartoon characters?
Okay, I have to admit, I love Superman, okay, not really Superman, but Clark Kent. Yeah I know he is not the super hero; but to have to keep such a secret and still act normal. That is amazing. We watch Smallville and have the Lois and Clark series on dvd. Oh you want 4 more? Ohhhh and they don't have to be superheroes? Not that that really helps.
2. Batman
3. Jughead
4. Smurfs
5. Green Arrow
Weekend Blogging 5/5-5/6: I posted a layout to commemorate National Scrapbooking Day brought to us by Karooch.
I didn't get to participate on any online activities or even paper activities since I had been on the road and at Universal Studios that day. Though if you look below you can find a layout I did of my nephew, Tot.
Mon 5/7 Blog Prompt: What do you think about ghosts?
Not much as long as they leave me alone. Actually I'm not really sure how I feel about them. Being as that I have never really seen one, I can't discount that others may have.
Universal Tribulations
Well we made it. Even though we made around noon, they had a room ready for us. Not a great view, but a nice enough room. After settling in we headed over to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Great thing about staying at a Universal hotel is that your room key is a fast pass to all the rides. No waiting in line; so we actually rode just about every ride they had.
Well I didn't ride the Hulk, but Pan did. And for the Bug, we tried to win a Spiderman doll for the boys. It was taller than Tater. Sorry we didn't win it, the boys would have probably loved it.
That night we ate at Captain Jack's here at the hotel. Talk about the quantity of food. Pan was in heaven. He likes his steaks well done and his was absolutely perfect. Well done and still tender and juicy.
Yesterday, I stayed around the hotel as it looked like it was going to rain. Finally that afternoon it did. Thunder and lightning. Glad I stayed in. This morning I will head over to one or both of the parks to take pictures, so that I can go one day without the camera.
Anyway, be good and when I get back today I will take a look at the blog prompts and maybe get some posted.
Well I didn't ride the Hulk, but Pan did. And for the Bug, we tried to win a Spiderman doll for the boys. It was taller than Tater. Sorry we didn't win it, the boys would have probably loved it.
That night we ate at Captain Jack's here at the hotel. Talk about the quantity of food. Pan was in heaven. He likes his steaks well done and his was absolutely perfect. Well done and still tender and juicy.
Yesterday, I stayed around the hotel as it looked like it was going to rain. Finally that afternoon it did. Thunder and lightning. Glad I stayed in. This morning I will head over to one or both of the parks to take pictures, so that I can go one day without the camera.
Anyway, be good and when I get back today I will take a look at the blog prompts and maybe get some posted.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Word of the Week - WHIFFET
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
whiffet(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
1. A little whiff or puff
2. [var, if whippet] a small dog
3. an insignificant, esp. young, person.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Sandy Beaches and E-mail Tribulations
Well sis, I tried emailing this to you. The full size one that is and it just wouldn't go through. But I thought you might just like to see it.
Tribulations of Dressing for a Visit and Salary
Mon 4/30 Blog Prompt: Since this week will start the month of May, I thought I'd do lists of 5 this week: You are in charge of giving out a major award to the 5 Best Dressed People of the Year. Who are they?
Well not me.... I go for comfort not style.
First on the list though would be my sister, ddpup. She knows how to dress and look perfect for any occasion. Wish I had her fashion sense. For special occasions, I try and let her pick out my clothes.
Second would be my oldest, NavyNuke. He doesn't always follow the newest fashion trend; but is always tastefully dressed. He's more relaxed these days; but you can still find him sporting about in silk shirts and tailored pants. He is a believer in that real men can wear pink.
Third would be my daughter, Bombshell. That is when she tries. She is a lovely woman (guess I can't really call her a girl anymore at 27); tall, lanky with long legs. She can wear just about anything and look good in it.
Fourth would be other son Scamp; although he is more like me and goes for comfort. Still he can look pretty good especially in that Marine Corps uniform or in his khaki slacks and polo shirts.
Fifth would be Pan. Again he is like me and goes more for comfort; but when he was a contractor for the base and had to wear a suit, he would make any woman swoon when he walked by. Then add his trench coat and you had another James Bond in the making.
Tues 5/1 Blog Prompt: You won the travel lotto! You will get an all expense paid trip for you and your family to 5 places anywhere in the world. List the 5 "Must See" places in the world you would go see.
I have been pretty lucky in life having visited some really wonderful places; the Redwood Forest; the Painted Desert; the Meteor Crater; Grand Canyon; Cape Cod; Orlando; New Orleans; Atlanta; New York; San Fransico; Sacramento; Omaha; Memphis; just about every little town in Alabama and Mississippi; Guam; Hawaii; Hong Kong; Germany; Austria; Rapid City, SD (birthplace) and the list goes on - so narrowing it down to 5 is going to be hard. But here it goes:
1. The Keys (Pan use to live there and I would like to see them for that reason)
2. Rapid City, SD (would like to see it as an adult)
3. Australia and New Zealand (because didn't get the chance when we lived in Guam)
4. Alaska (to see the ice floes and the whales)
5. Ireland (ancestral home of Pan's mother) & Scotland (ancestral home of Pan's father and possibly of my own father)
Wed 5/3 Blog Prompt: You have been appointed the head of the Department of Labor and plan to set salaries according to how important an occupation is. What do you think are the top 5 most important occupations?
Boy, Loonyhiker really knows how to pick them doesn't she? This one is tough.
1. Elementary, middle school and high school teachers would be on the top. They are the people who shape our children for the future.
2. Non-commissioned military personal would be the second most important. They are out there defending our nation and deserve to be paid accordingly.
3. Astronomical research personnel. We are depleting our resources and need to expand our horizons, literally.
4. Pediatric surgeons. What is a child's life worth?
5. Hospice personnel. They do a wonderful job but such a hard and difficult one.
Well not me.... I go for comfort not style.
First on the list though would be my sister, ddpup. She knows how to dress and look perfect for any occasion. Wish I had her fashion sense. For special occasions, I try and let her pick out my clothes.
Second would be my oldest, NavyNuke. He doesn't always follow the newest fashion trend; but is always tastefully dressed. He's more relaxed these days; but you can still find him sporting about in silk shirts and tailored pants. He is a believer in that real men can wear pink.
Third would be my daughter, Bombshell. That is when she tries. She is a lovely woman (guess I can't really call her a girl anymore at 27); tall, lanky with long legs. She can wear just about anything and look good in it.
Fourth would be other son Scamp; although he is more like me and goes for comfort. Still he can look pretty good especially in that Marine Corps uniform or in his khaki slacks and polo shirts.
Fifth would be Pan. Again he is like me and goes more for comfort; but when he was a contractor for the base and had to wear a suit, he would make any woman swoon when he walked by. Then add his trench coat and you had another James Bond in the making.
Tues 5/1 Blog Prompt: You won the travel lotto! You will get an all expense paid trip for you and your family to 5 places anywhere in the world. List the 5 "Must See" places in the world you would go see.
I have been pretty lucky in life having visited some really wonderful places; the Redwood Forest; the Painted Desert; the Meteor Crater; Grand Canyon; Cape Cod; Orlando; New Orleans; Atlanta; New York; San Fransico; Sacramento; Omaha; Memphis; just about every little town in Alabama and Mississippi; Guam; Hawaii; Hong Kong; Germany; Austria; Rapid City, SD (birthplace) and the list goes on - so narrowing it down to 5 is going to be hard. But here it goes:
1. The Keys (Pan use to live there and I would like to see them for that reason)
2. Rapid City, SD (would like to see it as an adult)
3. Australia and New Zealand (because didn't get the chance when we lived in Guam)
4. Alaska (to see the ice floes and the whales)
5. Ireland (ancestral home of Pan's mother) & Scotland (ancestral home of Pan's father and possibly of my own father)
Wed 5/3 Blog Prompt: You have been appointed the head of the Department of Labor and plan to set salaries according to how important an occupation is. What do you think are the top 5 most important occupations?
Boy, Loonyhiker really knows how to pick them doesn't she? This one is tough.
1. Elementary, middle school and high school teachers would be on the top. They are the people who shape our children for the future.
2. Non-commissioned military personal would be the second most important. They are out there defending our nation and deserve to be paid accordingly.
3. Astronomical research personnel. We are depleting our resources and need to expand our horizons, literally.
4. Pediatric surgeons. What is a child's life worth?
5. Hospice personnel. They do a wonderful job but such a hard and difficult one.
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