Back From Boredom

I'm back. Done with the seminars and two nights at Mom's. I am home for a couple of hours then back to Mom's for a couple of days.

The first seminar was on Estate and Trusts tax returns. The second seminar was about Social Security and Medicare. The following is what we play for:



Some states don't bother with taking attendance so you get the credit whether you sign the attendance sheet sent out the last hour of the seminar or not. Sign in you are good to go. Oregon is a lot more anal than that. You sign in in the morning and sign the attendance sheet in the afternoon.

The dinner at Nancie's went well. She is an excellent cook and I really liked her friends. There was another couple there and I was glad for that. It kind of gave us more to talk about. Right before her friends got there Nancie told me that Chris was her ex husband. That was kind of weird but he was really nice. They were married very young and only married for a couple of years. They were just to young. He and his new wife, also named Chris, have been married thirty years. They were really interesting to talk to because they are retired and traveling the world. I also found out that Nancie is an excellent painter. She has held her paintings and held show at several art galleries.

Looking for a gift for Fathers' Day or other occasions? Here is a good idea for one:

http://smallbusiness.aol.com/2011/06/14/company-looks-to-cash-in-with-anthony-weiner-doll/

I kind of think that Anthony Weiner needs the kind of training mentioned in the following article:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20110616/hl_time/httphealthlandtimecom20110616howbraintrainingcanboostintelligencexidrssfullhealthsciyahoo;_ylt=AuACHIg1eeaAsRAa22ONdkqs0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTV2djNjM242BGFzc2V0A3RpbWUvMjAxMTA2MTYvaHR0cGhlYWx0aGxhbmR0aW1lY29tMjAxMTA2MTZob3dicmFpbnRyYWluaW5nY2FuYm9vc3RpbnRlbGxpZ2VuY2V4aWRyc3NmdWxsaGVhbHRoc2NpeWFob28EY2NvZGUDbW9zdHBvcHVsYXIEY3BvcwM5BHBvcwM2BHB0A2hvbWVfY29rZQRzZWMDeW5faGVhZGxpbmVfbGlzdARzbGsDaG93YnJhaW50cmFp

I'm really looking forward to getting home tonight around eight and then start knocking of the items on my to do list tomorrow. There are only fifty-five items on my to do list.

Comment Away.

PRESIDENTS

Tuesday's president was U.S. Grant. Today's president was quoted as saying. "To some generations much is given. Of other generations much is expected. This generations of Americans has a rendezvous with destiny." He was born in 1882 and died in office in 1945. He said these awards as he accepted his party's nomination for a second time. These words were said as a reference to the economic depression going on at the time but would soon take on a new meaning. You really have enough information right now to know who this president is but if you need more form an attachment with the number 32. Which President Am I?

Criminals, Hearts, & Veggies.

First up today is one of those dumb criminal stories we all love:

http://www.katu.com/news/weird/123685039.html

Next up today an amazing story and good news about hearts:

http://www.npr.org/2011/06/13/137029208/heart-with-no-beat-offers-hope-of-new-lease-on-life?sc=fb&cc=fp

Did you every wonder why some apples taste funny?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/13/dirty-dozen_n_875718.html#s290785&title=Apples

Comment Away and remember there will be no blog entry tomorrow and if there is one Thursday it will be late in the morning.

PRESIDENTS:

Yesterday's president was William McKinley. Today's president was quoted as saying "No terms except an unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted." This president that was considered one of the worst presidents in history was born in 1822 and died in 1885. He said this during the Civil War. His nickname became "Unconditional Surrender." If you know the number eighteen then you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Duct Tape Festival or Cow Chip Throw?

Sometimes I like to use personal life experiences to help others. How do you tell when you should call 911 when you are having chest pains?

http://www.everydayhealth.com/heart-health/chest-pain-emergency.aspx

Sounds like you call 911 whenever you have chest pains.

Now that you are healthy you need some suggestions of places to go. How about a cow chip throw or duct tape festival?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110610/od_nm/us_picks_wacky

Where are you going? Anything on the list that interests you?

Why do doctors lie? Do you want to know the answer to that question?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20110613/hl_time/08599207727400;_ylt=Aj_6zn.Q2N7.9UoPnhCDz7ys0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTNrcDhzbXEyBGFzc2V0A3RpbWUvMjAxMTA2MTMvMDg1OTkyMDc3Mjc0MDAEY2NvZGUDbW9zdHBvcHVsYXIEY3BvcwM5BHBvcwM2BHB0A2hvbWVfY29rZQRzZWMDeW5faGVhZGxpbmVfbGlzdARzbGsDam9lZmliYmVybWR3

Comment Away

PRESIDENTS

"The mission of the United States is one of benevolent assimilation." Born in 1843 and died in 1901 he said this in a proclamation regarding The Philippines. The whole thing started with the sinking of The Main. He is best known for winning intensely-fought elections by fighting for gold and high tariffs, for leading the nation to victory in 90 days in the Spanish American War, and for forging a Republican coalition that, with one interruption, dominated national politics until the 1930s. If you know the number 25 then you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Back To Health Update

I'm am back to full health. Yesterday I finally got my energy back to one hundred per cent. I found out two things, I was sicker than I thought I was and the recovery process is longer as you get older. I'm really glad to be where I was before the hospital causing illness.

Last week. Sunday was Mom to lunch. Monday was an intended day of rest but mom got really ill. She didn't really remember where she was and couldn't remember the name of her second son. It really scared the heck out my sister and I. It turned out to be a bout with low blood sugar. She recovered and is fine. Tuesday was actually a day of rest. Wednesday was an accounting seminar in the morning and at Mom's in the afternoon and at night. Thursday was at Mom's all day. My friend Nancie came over in the afternoon to treat Mom's feet and mine. Friday was a day of rest but I started feeling good enough to do some exercises to get my strength back. Saturday I was feeling pretty well so I took my clothes to the dry cleaners, went to the pharmacy, grocery shopped, and went on a mission to see how to get to Nancie's house. In between there I also took Mom to lunch. In addition I bought some Fathers' Day and get well cards for various friends and relatives.

Next week is one of those from hell. There will definitely not be a blog entry on Wednesday and there may not be one on Thursday as well. Today I am going to the movie Super 8. Tomorrow Nancie invited me to dinner at her house to meet some friends of hers. I know how to get there now so I will be on time. Tuesday is an all day accounting seminar and then the night at Mom's. Wednesday is an all day accounting seminar and then the night at Mom's. Thursday is at Mom's all day. Friday and Saturday are recovery day. You all will be proud of me though, when I saw how full my schedule was and not wanting a relapse I called a client and delayed a work assignment. I've been with this client since 1980 so I knew he would be understanding and he was. That really does take the pressure off.

The blog is now yours. Fill me in on our lives. That really is the thing I enjoy most, hearing about what is going on with you.

Happy Saturday

Yesterday's president was John Quincy Adams. Trivia returns Monday.

We are only going to do happy things today. The first is a video from DanaRae that was sent to her by M.J.

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=61WkeY9Jcvw&vq=medium

I could watch this video over and over, it is just so down charming.

Next up is a happy sports story:

http://entretenimiento.aollatino.com/2011/06/10/george-lopez-buys-rings-san-fernando-high/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl10%7Csec1_lnk1%7C215687

Good for Lopez for stepping up to the plate.

I am closing with a couple of good stories, all in one link:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/43340263/ns/today-good_news/

Comment Away.

Grads, Foods, & Intrigue

Happy Friday. In the second in a series of articles, more about today's graduates.

http://www.oregonlive.com/education/index.ssf/2011/06/oregon_universities_see_more_n.html

I was really surprised at some of the statistics in the above article. Non-traditional graduates are almost forty percent.

A little advise now on how to get rid of food:

http://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/how-long-is-my-food-safe-to-eat.aspx?xid=aol_eh-digest_9-_20110606&aolcat=ESO&icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl3%7Csec1_lnk1%7C215623

Do you use the small test? Or are you more careful than that?

Intrigue right on Facebook:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/09/facebook-angela-voelkert-murder_n_873907.html?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk1%7C215645

I am pretty stunned at some of the stuff in the article.

Comment Away.

TODAY'S PRESIDENT:

"I am a man of reserved, cold, austere, and forbidding manners; my political adversaries say, a gloomy misanthropist, and my personal animals, an unsocial savage." Born in 1767 and died in 1848. I spoke these words when I was secretary of state. As the eldest son of a previous president I excelled at being a foreign diplomat. My wife and I hardly spoke when we were in the White House. Dad was before me but if you know the number six you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

A Sucker For Love

Yesterday's president was Zachary Taylor. I am at Mom's and didn't bring my presidential cards with me so there is no president of the day.. Some type of test will return tomorrow I'm just not sure which one. I am still recovering from the bought that took me to the hospital. The indigestion is gone but the fall out is still ongoing and I have a couple of more days, if my guess, before I get back to full health.

OK, I admit it. I am a sucker. I am a sucker for love and love stories. One of my biggest regrets is that I've never found true love. The woman would have got one heck of a husband and I would have gotten support and grounding, And someone to be there through the good times as well as bad. Wouldn't it have been great to live the life this couple has:

http://www.oregonlive.com/living/index.ssf/2011/06/long_marriages_the_ballards_ha.html

Want to know how Warren Buffet made his millions:

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/06/07/understanding-why-warren-buffett-invests-like-a-girl/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec3_lnk2%7C215496

Closing out the day with customer service.

http://smallbusiness.aol.com/2011/06/08/consumers-reveal-their-top-customer-service-gripes/

I certainly would have ranked waiting a lot higher than they did.

Comment away.

Slow News Day Number 2.

Another slow news day so I am reduced to articles about how to grocery shop:

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/06/06/why-grocery-shopping-may-never-be-the-same/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec1_lnk3%7C215302

I've kind of gotten away from The Dollar Tree as I found their stuff wanting.

Next up I am reduced to posting an article on how to rehab in style.

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2011/06/03/keeping-up-with-the-joneses-americas-priciest-rehab-palaces/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec3_lnk3%7C215302

The most interesting article today is on an early letter by Hitler.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/07/hitler-letter-jews_n_872705.html?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk1%7C215390

I am kind of stunned that his hate for Jews came in 1919, yet when he ran for chancellor that the people of Germany either ignored that hate or were unaware of it.

I'm also going to recommend a book by Erik Larson IN THE GARDEN OF BEASTS. It is about an American Diplomat and his daughter assigned to Germany in 1933. They get sucked in by Nazi proganda and then can't get out. It is a true story.

Comment Away

PRESIDENTS:

Yesterday's answer was LBJ. Today's president was quoted as saying: "My life has been devoted to arms, yet I look upon war at all times and under all circumstances to be avoided if compatible with national honor." Born in 1784 and died in 1850.. He was a national war hero. His military career lasted four decades and several wars. His nickname was Old Rough & Ready. He was the last president to own slaves while in office. If you know the number 12 you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Slow News Day

I'm late today because it has been a slow news day and finding any articles not about Weiners was difficult. First up. Did you know how you decorate your house could make you look older or younger?

http://www.shelterpop.com/2011/06/03/look-younger-home/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk1%7C215078

I agree with the statement in the article that furniture you can't sit in not only makes the house look old but what is the point?

Did you ever wonder what the millionaires did with their tax cut?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/06/patriotic-millionaires-bush-tax-cuts_n_871840.html?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl1%7Csec3_lnk2%7C215331

Kudos to these millionaires for wanting to pay their fair share.

Even wonder what of the famous diets are the best? Now you will know:

http://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/0607/best-diets-for-weight-loss-heart-health-and-diabetes.aspx?xid=aol_eh-diet_4-_20110606&aolcat=DFT&icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl6%7Csec1_lnk3%7C215314


Comment away.


PRESIDENTS:

Yesterday's president was Andrew Jackson, today's president was quoted as saying.

"All Americans must have the privileges of citizenship regardless of race." Born in 1908 and died in 1973 said this in a speech at a joint session of congress proposing a bill that would ban unfair voting restrictions that were being used to prevent blacks from voting. His first term in office was not an elected on but he was elected to his next term for six years in office. He could have ran again and completed ten years in office but he declined to run. He is one of only four people who served in all four elected federal offices of the United States: Representative, Senator, Vice President and President, If you know the number thirty-six you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Today's Woman

We are celebrating women today.

First up is a woman that stayed calm under the worst of circumstances.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/02/teressa-middleton-stalls-_n_870386.html?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl5%7Csec1_lnk1%7C214905

Next up is a success story. A woman took a thousand dollars and became a millionaire.

http://smallbusiness.aol.com/2011/06/02/my-first-million-barbara-corcoran-the-corcoran-group/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec1_lnk1%7C215093

Next up is a woman than turned her life around:

http://www.oregonlive.com/health/index.ssf/2011/06/among_oregon_health_science_un.html

I'm not sure how I feel about an one time addict having the ability to prescribe drugs.

Comment Away.

PRESIDENTS:

"One man with courage makes a majority" He was born in 1767 and died in 1845. He used the veto more often then the previous six presidents. His followers created the modern Democratic party. He was nicknamed "Old Hickory" because of his toughness and aggressive personality that produced numerous duels, some fatal. He was a rich slave owner who appealed to the masses of Americans and fought against what he denounced as a closed undemocratic aristocracy. If you know the number seven then you can answer, which president am I?

A Sick Update

Last week. I was at Mom's Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday Morning; Got sick on Thursday and spent a day in the hospital. Friday I rested all day and I am doing the same today as the indigestion came back. Saturday I took Mom to lunch and mowed the lawn as I was feeling pretty good.

This upcoming week I have a morning seminar on Wednesday and am at Mom's that night and Thursday. Monday is doing a set of books for a client. Tuesday is not doing much because I am working on feeling good. Friday is probably a movie.

There is no entertainment updates as all the show I have watched are done for their seasons. I don't watch So You Think You Can Dance or The or The Bachelorette. If any of you do and want to post summary, feel free to.

DanaRae needs some prayers for he Mom. Dona and The Shankster need prayers for themselves. Pat needs good vibes while she is waiting for the result of some big time tests. If you know of anyone else in our group that needs some prayers or vibes please let us know.

And update me on your life! Fire Away

Food, Old People, & Bad People.

The food pyramid is out:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110602/ap_on_he_me/us_usda_my_plate

What were prehistoric women and men like?

http://www.parentdish.com/2011/06/02/prehistoric-women-roamed/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl10%7Csec3_lnk1%7C214884

The five worst people in history:

http://www.parentdish.com/2011/06/02/school-yearbook-worst-people-list/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk2%7C214911

I'm not so sure I would agree with the high school's choice. My five worst people would be; Hitler, Ted Bundy, Ben Laden, Wesley Alan Dodd, and Jack The Ripper. Who would your five worst be?

Comment away.

PS

The answer to the last president was James Polk.

No Blog Entry Today

No blog entry today. Spent last night in the hospital and I am really tired. I had chest pains all day yesterday and finally at midnight I called 911. They took me to the emergency room. After four hours in the emergency room I finally was admitted to the hospital at 4 A.M. They kept me over night just to be sure. Two enzyme tests came back normal. Twelve EKG's came back normal. Blood pressure was high because I was scared. Finally it was determined that I had severe indigestion. They gave me a couple of prescriptions and released me about an hour ago. I feel really good now and was glad it wasn't the heart. I did learn that if you have indigestion and you burp a lot it can cause that area in the middle of your chest right below the boobs to hurt tremendously. Almost like broken ribs.

I will return with a blog entry tomorrow. Today I am sleeping.

Scary Things.

Eleanor Roosevelt as quoted in the following article, "do one thing you fear everyday." A woman took that to heart. She jumped from airplanes and swam with sharks. Yes the most what she found the most frightening thing to do is something I have done once. It only lasted a couple of minutes but I did it and maybe could do it again.

http://www.mydaily.com/2011/06/02/my-year-with-eleanor-author-empowered-by-first-lady/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl6%7Csec1_lnk1%7C214857

What would be the most frightening thing for you to do?

A couple of days ago we shared pictures of a nine million dollar house that DR indicated was to big to clean. So day we have just the house for DR:

http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2011/06/01/video-family-lives-in-320-square-foot-shotgun-shack/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl3%7Csec1_lnk1%7C214841

I don't think I could live in this house, could you?

The story of the teacher that sang to her class while there was a gang war going on outside the classroom has went viral. There has been over a million views of her video on You Tube. The story has been in all the main newspapers in the U.S. She has won bravery awards from her city and country. Now in fairness, I am sharing an article where the teachers probably didn't you the best of judgment:

http://weirdnews.aol.com/2011/06/01/field-trip-hooters_n_869663.html?ref=tw&icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl2%7Csec3_lnk2%7C214846

Good idea? Are you wondering what church went on a field trip there? Sounds like a fun church to me.

Comment Away.


PRESIDENTS

The answer to yesterday's president was Rutherford B. Hayes. Today's President is quoted as saying, "In truth, though I occupy a very high position, I am the hardest person in this country." Born in 1795 and died in 1849, the quote was taken from his diary on 1-18-47. Most historians agree with him as he accomplished much in his one term in office. Some even believe he worked so hard that he accelerated his death. During his term the U.S. Naval Academy and the Smithsonian Institution opened. The groundbreaking for the Washington Monument, and the issuance of the first postage stamps in the United States also took place. He negotiated the splitting of the Oregon Country and helped lead America to a victory in the Mexican-American War. Scholars have called me the "least known consequential president" of the United States. Eleven has always been my favorite number. Which president am i?

Head Shakers & Heroes.

Want an article that is just make you shake your head and maybe even tick you off? Read the following:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/31/egyptian-female-protesters-virginity-test-_n_868997.html?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk3%7C214634

That is just so wrong on so many levels.

From the bad to the good:

http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/31/teacher-uses-song-gun-battle/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl15%7Csec1_lnk1%7C214651

Smart teacher.

From the good to the catty. Men being catty, that is.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110601/od_nm/us_australia_meow

Comment away.

PRESIDENTS.

The answer to yesterday's president was Chester A. Arthur. Today's president was quoted as saying, "He serves his party best who serves the country best." He was born in 1822 and died in 1893. He said these words in his inauguration address to soothe bitter feelings over his election which was decided just days before he took the oath after months of dispute. His victory was given to him by a special Congregational committee. After a scandal where it was said that blacks were prevented from voting. If you know the number nineteen you can answer the question, Which president am I?

Great Things

Great things is the main for the day.

First a story about a nine year-old girl that I loved:

http://www.oregonlive.com/west-linn/index.ssf/2011/05/9-year-old_keizer_girl_turns_50_from_her_west_linn_grandmother_into_5600_for_charity.html

I really like what the grandma did and how the little gal ran with it. Not to mention the support she got from others.

Now, how about an animal going great things?

http://www.oregonlive.com/pets/index.ssf/2011/05/pet_talk_dogs_are_trained_to_i.html

Amazing dog. I can see so many ways animals can help us.

Let's close with a great house:

http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2011/05/27/house-of-the-day-iconic-redwood-grove-lists-at-8-75m/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl4%7Csec1_lnk1%7C214617

Of course we know the architect as she was one of the answers to the Who Am I. When I win the lottery this is my next house.

Comment Away.

PRESIDENTS

The answer to yesterday's president was Benjamin Harrison. Today's president was quoted as saying, "Madam, I may be President of the United Stated States, but my private life is nobody's damned business." Born in 1829 and died in 1886 was quoted as saying these words to a woman of the temperance movement. He originally moved up from vice president to president when James was assassinated. He vetoed and vetoed and vetoed but was more known for his personal life. He took care with his dress, appreciated fine food, and was concerned with proper decor. He hired Mr. Tiffany for extensive White House redecoration. If you know the number twenty-one then you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Memorial Day

Today is the day for remembering the almost two million Americans that have lost their lives in wars and conflicts. We really don't know much about how the day came about. The following article gives us the history of the day including the origin as the a day to remember Civil War vets:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/29/memorial-day-history_n_868632.html?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl7%7Csec3_lnk3%7C214570

I found the following article a little disturbing:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110530/ap_on_he_me/us_med_healthbeat_drug_shortages;_ylt=ArzinG6qnJqEyUodTx78K56s0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTQ0bWxxaGpkBGFzc2V0A2FwLzIwMTEwNTMwL3VzX21lZF9oZWFsdGhiZWF0X2RydWdfc2hvcnRhZ2VzBGNjb2RlA21vc3Rwb3B1bGFyBGNwb3MDNARwb3MDMQRwdANob21lX2Nva2UEc2VjA3luX2hlYWRsaW5lX2xpc3QEc2xrA2hvc3BpdGFsc2h1bg--

I frankly don't know why the manufacturers just can't make more drugs.

Have we become to politically correct? I've seen advertised stage performances of To Kill A Mockingbird without the use of the "N" word. Now some Hollywood types are going for the banning of the "R" word.

http://www.popeater.com/2011/05/26/hollywood-stars-aim-to-end-use-of-the-r-word-video/

I've never liked the "R" word but I am really against censorship so I am struggling with what side to come down on.

Comment Away.

PRESIDENTS

"I knew that my staying up would not change the election result if I were defeated, while if elected I had a hard day ahead of me So I thought a night's rest was best in any event." We have had another president with his same last name earlier. He was born in 1833 and died in 1901. He ran against the president with the first name the same as Bill's brother. I'm one of those that won with more electoral votes than popular votes. I ran in an election that was the only election where both candidates had been president before. If you know much about the number twenty-three, then you can answer the question, Which president am I?

Boring Update.

It has been a busy week. One thing I have learned the last three days is that I am just not emotionally equipped to be the lead caregiver with Mom again. Even though she gets healthier when I am there the vocal jabs I get from her are just to tough to take. It has become to hard for me not to react. Then an argument ensues and that really isn't good for either of us. I can handle the jabs one or two days a week but for several days in a row I just don't have it in me.

Last week. Sunday work day. Monday day and night at Mom's. Tuesday all day at Mom's. Wednesday house cleaning. Thursday at Mom's in the morning to help her out of bed. There at noon to fix her lunch. Nancie my friend is a Reflexologist specializing in feet. I had her come over at three to work on my Mom's feet. She is a top notch professionaland did a great job on Mom's feet. Mom's feet were warm for several days afterward. Nancie, Mom, & I went out for dinner afterwards. We went to Rose's. Nancie fit in really well and we had a great time. The caregiver arrives usually at nine in the evenings on Thursday. I stayed until 8:30 and helped Mom to bed. Friday I was at Mom's to fix her lunch. Then serve as host as mom's good friends Ted, Betty, and Marion visited her. While they were talking with Mom I put together dinner for Mom and the caregiver. Meatloaf, corn, and cantaloupe. Saturday the caregiver goes to her other job early so I was there at Mom's at six to help her out of bed. I went back at eleven to take her out to lunch. We had a nice lunch out. When we got back to Mom's we played three games of Scrabble. While we were playing Scrabble I put dinner in for Mom and the caregiver. Turkey breast, baked potatoes, and string beans. I left Mom's at four and went home and just relaxed.

On the agenda this week is more Mom's. Today I was there at 6:30 to help her get out of bed. I am going back today to fix lunch for her. Caregiver gets there early today. Early enough to fix the dinner so I will come home this afternoon and just chill out. Caregiver stays through noon on Monday. I will get to Mom's at two on Monday and be there Monday night, Tuesday, and Tuesday night. Sis gets back Wednesday. So I will leave Mom's early Wednesday morning and concentrate on things I need to get done the rest of the week.

Entertainment update. John Rich won the Celebrity Apprentice. I really wanted Matlin. I thought this is one time when Trump could have actually done something outside the box and declared Rich and Matlin as co-champs. On Dancing With The Stars my favorites Hines Ward and Kym Johnson won, Kirstie Alley & Max finished second, and Chelsie Kane & Mark finished third. The results show was on of the best ever on Dancing With The Stars. The highlight for me was Josh Groban singing while Petra danced a beautiful waltz. Top Chef Masters was off this week so no news there.

The blog is now yours. Comment on anything. Share anything. Say anything. Do anything. Tell me about you and your lives. I'm all ears.

Dogs, Brooding, Smiling & Barbie

The answer to yesterday's president was Harry S Truman.

Enjoying the Saturday but it has been kind of busy with sister gone. Yesterday dinner for the caregiver and mom was meatloaf, cantaloupe, and corn. Tonight's dinner is turkey breaks, green beans, and a baked potato.

Sometimes amazing stories come from tragedy. Here is one that will make you shake your head as well as smile:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_thelookout/20110526/us_yblog_thelookout/dog-with-two-broken-legs-finds-owner-after-storm

Interaction between the genders is always an interesting subject to me. What does one gender find attractive about another? Brooding and Smiling:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110525/od_nm/us_smiles_sex

I'm closing with just a little odd news for your Saturday:

http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2011/05/27/Study-makes-subjects-feel-Barbie-sized/UPI-53181306506964/

Makes you wonder just how much you can influence the human mind.

Comment away.

Spies, Plane Crashes, & Potato Chips.

"The glow of one warm thought is to me worth more than money. " by yesterday's president. Thomas Jefferson

Part five of spy crossing:

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_5_facing_charges_spys_son_makes_painful_decision.html

I'm all for the kid finking on the dad. I think what the dad did to get his son involved in this is unforgivable.

Today is a bonus entry. Spy Crossings the final entry.

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_6_a_spy_spares_his_son_from_a_courtroom_confrontation.html

I am really surprised now by how deep into the Russian spy dome that this story really went. I now understand why the meetings had to be mostly in Mexico City. I'm happy that young Nathan was able to move on with his life. While, I am glad his dad finally did the right thing where the son was concerned but good old dad doesn't get a pass with me, he is still a scumbag.

Enough about spies. Where do you think most plane accidents occur?

http://news.travel.aol.com/2011/05/25/one-third-of-airplane-accidents-occur-on-the-ground/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec3_lnk3%7C214241

I've always said I'm not really afraid of flying, I am afraid of crashing. More truth to that statement than first thought.

Can I end a Friday without an odd story? No:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/05/24/us-india-prison-idUSTRE74N04E20110524

I am glad the prisoners are doing something productive.

Comment away.

PRESIDENTS:

"I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it." This duded was born in 1884 and died in 1972 was quoted with this quote that he made during a TV interview after his presidency. When he appeared on the show Edward R. Murrow was absent and his daughter Margaret conducted the interview.

He was the first president to deliver a televised address. The buck stopped at his desk when he was president. His first term as president was not an elected term. He was elected for a second term despite an erroneous famous headline declaring his opponent as the victor. Which

Yellow Dots & Pyschopaths

It was good to hear from Symply Amused who posted a message yesterday on The World Begins With An Update. She graduates in July!!! Way to go Symply!!

Part four of Spy Crossings:

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_4_confronted_by_the_fbi_spys_son_takes_mulligan.html

I thought Mulligans were only golf. I am still shocked that when his dad tells him that he isn't doing anything illegal that the kid believes his dad? If everything is so above board what about all the cash in paper bags? Why not just a check?

I would love it if they would have the following program in our state. In fact I may send some letters to the appropriate people to see we can get one started here:

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2011-05-23-yellow-dot-seniors-drivers-baby-boomers_n.htm

What do you think, a good idea or bad idea?

Did you ever wonder where the psychopaths hangout?

http://www.npr.org/2011/05/21/136462824/a-psychopath-walks-into-a-room-can-you-tell?sc=fb&cc=fp

I was kind of surprised by the article, you?

PRESIDENTS

Yesterday's president was Woodrow Wilson. Today's president was quoted as saying:

"The second office of the government is honorable and easy, the first is but splendid misery." He was born in 1743 and died in 1826 and said this while he was serving his term as this county's second vice president. When he won the presidency he beat the nations first vice president. He was also the principal author of the Declaration of Independence before he became president. He purchased Louisiana and sent Meriwether
and William on their way. Which president Am I?

Follow The Sheep (And Goats)

Here is part three of Spy Crossing, the spy that crossed right by my house. Today is a close call and trouble copying notes written in pencil.

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_3_after_an_interrogation_a_spys_son_is_worried.html

I am kind of curious whether or not the son goes to jail. Or even if he is caught. The thing that surprises the most other than how a dad could do that to his son but how easy it was for the son to become a space. He didn't receive any training, no training on or with guns or special weapons, no training with how to secretly communicate, and not training how to tell if you are being followed. For him it was easier to become a spy then it was for him to get a job at McDonalds.

From the surprising story to the charming one:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110523/od_nm/us_horse_blind

Now let's end the day with a laugh:

http://www.katu.com/news/business/122515349.html

Spies, lovable animals, and dumb criminals. What more could you want? Comment away.

PRESIDENTS

James Buchannan was yesterday's president. Today's president said:

"There is no cause half so sacred as the cause of the people. There is no idea so uplifting as the idea of the services to humanity." This dude was born in 1856 and died in 1924 delivered this quote in a speech on the presidential campaign trail after serving as governor of New Jersey. He was at the time and still his the only president to hold a doctorate degree and served for a while as president of his alma matter, Princeton. He tried to keep the U.S. out of World War I during is presidential term but was forced to get the U.S. involved due to German submarine attacked on our ships. He was an advocate of the creation of the League of Nations. There really is enough information to know him, think of all the benefits and challenges of the number twenty-eight and it will be a slam dunk to answer the question, Which President Am I?

Sentencing.

Part of two of the story I pegged as Spy Crossing because some of the folks in the story had to drive right near my house to pull of the espionage:

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_2_russians_warm_up_to_son_of_spy_hand_him_cash.html

Cash in brown bags and secrets in napkins? Are you kidding me?

Next story just brings a smile to my face and the inner thought, "it is about time." This is also a federal story writes about a different type of sentence:

http://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/2011/may/19/new-federal-rules-set-sentence-guidelines-the/?print

I had to choose between two articles for the last article of the day. One was on growing brains. The other was about museums you should visit. I chose the museums:

http://news.travel.aol.com/2011/05/13/from-spam-to-barbed-wire-seven-of-the-weirdest-museums-in-america/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl10%7Csec1_lnk3%7C213906

Your comments are appreciated.

PRESIDENTS

Yesterday's president was Bill Clinton. Today's said the following:

"My dear sir, if you are as happy on entering the White House as I am on leaving, you are a very happy man indeed." He reportedly spoke this words to the president that would end up not finishing his term due to a bad choice of plays. Two days into my presidency the Supreme Court issued a decision in the Dred Scott case , a decision that would lead to war under the next president. When some Southern states succeeded I took no action. If you know a little about the number fifteen, you should be able to answer the question, Which President Am I?

Spy Crossing

The federal prison is in Sheridan, Oregon which is about sixty miles from me. Most people that visit there go right by my house on 99-W. You pass the federal prison when you visit the casino we go to at times. The prison houses those convicted of federal crimes like tax evasion and spying. The following is the first in a series of six articles about what was going on just minutes from my home:

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/the_spys_kid_part_1_son_follows_dad_into_dark_world_of_espionage.html

From now on the intersection of 99-W and Roy Rogers Road that I can see from my front porch will be called Spy Crossing. Part two will appear on tomorrow's blog entry.

Remember a couple of months ago when Watson appeared on Jeopardy? Did you wonder what the computer champ was doing now? That question has been answered:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110521/ap_on_hi_te/us_doctor_watson

Did you miss Dozer Day? I did but I wish I hadn't, sounds like a ton of dirty fun.

http://www.oregonlive.com/clark-county/index.ssf/2011/05/loud_machinery_lures_thousands_to_dozer_day_at_fishers_quarry.html

Are you a spy? Are you happy that Watson has moved on to new things? Are you going to drive a bulldozer anytime soon? And of course you can make any comment about today's entry.


PRESIDENTS

"When I took office, only high energy physicists had ever heard of what is called the World Wide Web, now even my cat has his own web page." Born in 1946 this is one of the better presidents in our lifetime but his fist started sixteen straight years of hate politics. He often referred to the Internet as "our new town square." Socks and the presidential dog welcomed students to an Internet tour of the White House. After eight years in office he left with a surplus at hand and his wife went into politics. She served as senator, lost a presidential election, and is now serving in the cabinet at Colin Powell's old position. Which president Am I?

The World Begins With An Update

Since we are all still here it is time for the weekly update. Pat how is the pneumonia? DR how are you doing after the fall and how was the wedding? Dona how are you and The Shankster doing? Have you killed The Shankster yet? Mary it is getting close to the end of the school year, has a college been picked by your son? Ellen, has anyone slapped some sense into the Wisconsin governor yet? Mary Z did the tornados miss you? Snug, how are things in Singapore? Sian how are things on the Island? Lurkers go ahead and fall out of the loft and tell us about your lives. And if I have missed anyone I apologize ahead of time.

Last week wasn't to bad for me. Monday morning was minor foot surgery, Monday afternoon was date number two. Tuesday and Wednesday nights were at Mom's as was Thursday Morning. Thursday was a movie. Friday an all day seminar. Saturday a day of rest.

This week Sister and husband are heading out for Utah to attend the graduation of their grandson. He is graduating from high school and then heading to Texas to attend SMU. They are leaving early Thursday morning. That will make for a busy week for me. Monday night and Tuesday morning is at Mom's. I will also be at Mom's every day from Thursday through next Tuesday until sister returns. Good news on the Mom front, she has been doing a little more walking at my encouragement. I really felt she was atrophying by the way she downsized her walking. I kind of got upset at her and pissed her off into doing more walking. She has and she has gotten better. Her arthritis pain hasn't been as severe. Now that I am going to be there a lot the next week I am going to help her do a little more each day.

Entertainment update. Meatloaf and Little John were eliminated on The Celebrity Apprentice. Donald Trump was eliminated from the presidential race. The finalists on The Apprentice are Marlee Matlin and John Rich. I'm rooting for Matlin, Rich is to pious and arrogant for me. On Dancing With The Stars the Karate Kid, Ralph Macchio, was sent home. The finalist are Kirstie Alley, actress, Chelsie Kane, Disney star, and football player Hines Ward. Any of them could win it but I want Hines to bring home the mirror ball trophy. Chelsie is probably the best dancer but I just can't stand her professional partner, Mark Ballas. He is just to darn weird. Kirstie is probably the worst dancer but tries and practices the hardest. She has lost close to 100 hundred pounds dancing her way to the finals. Hines is the dude that always smiles and really is the most likeable of the finalists. He also has my favorite professional to help him out, the stunning Kym Johnson. On Top Chef Masters my gal from Portland, Naomi Pomeroy, won the night. She is one of the five remaining. I'm now watching Top Chef Masters because of her.

The blog is now yours. Share your lives with me. Post anything you want. Tell me your plans for the future.

Sexy Saturday

This is sexy Saturday. I think inspirational stories are sexy as I do unusual stories that could be described as kind of funny.

Let's start out with some very caring teens:

http://www.portlandtribune.com/news/story.php?story_id=130576408147278400

I really don't know if most people would define the following story as inspirational or a blessing of current day technology:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110520/ap_on_bi_ge/eu_med_paralysis_treatment

Humor is often timing. The timing of the government in sending out certain things can be good for a laugh or two.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110520/od_nm/us_zombies

Hope you survive today. In the meantime your comments are appreciated.

PRESIDENTS:

Yesterday's answer was John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Here is today's:

During his two hour inaugural this president said "The only legitimate right to govern is an express frant of power from the governed." He was born in 1773 and died in office in 1841, I was one of the oldest gentlemen to be elected president at age 68. I died of pneumonia one month after catching a cold on inauguration day. If you know much about the number nine, then you can answer the question, Which President Am I?

Seminar In Orbit.

Today I am off to an all day accounting seminar. Learning how to use Outlook and Excel. Those are what they use in the firm that I work at and I just though it would be beneficial to hone my skills on programs I know little about.

A couple of days ago we talked about planets rotating backwards. Now comes a new discovery about planets:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110518/ap_on_sc/us_sci_wandering_planets

Speaking of exciting discoveries did you ever wonder what some of the signs of a bipolar disorder was? Wonder no more:

http://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/0309/surprising-signs-of-bipolar-disorder.aspx?xid=aol_eh-emo_21-_20100509&aolcat=HLT&icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl6%7Csec3_lnk1%7C213410

I am closing with an article I found astonishing:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110518/od_nm/us_prostitution
Fire Away.


PRESIDENTS

"I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone." He said these words at a banquet at the White House honoring forty-nine Nobel Prize winners. Some of the winners in attendance were Pearl Buck and Linus Pauling. I was born in 1917 and died in 1963. The year of death alone is enough for you to figure out who I am. It was Camelot before then. My brother suffered the same fate I suffered in office while he was running for the office. He is also one of Bill's idols. My wife was almost as famous as I was and after death separated us went Greek. Which president am I?

Will There Be A Post Sunday?

I really don't mean to alarm you but the world is ending this Saturday. The day will open with a worldwide earthquake and by 6 P.M. that evening Jesus will come to take the believers home with him. Don't believe me? Read the following:

http://hosted2.ap.org/txash/f7ded15e4d4846268a17b79c1c4b7cb8/Article_2011-05-18-US-Apocalypse-Saturday?/id-5b4c663176d542b3bba612ea60ad6274

I don't think I will have a theme party Saturday but there really is no need for me to clean my house. That frees up some time.

I do have a dilemma. Should I do a Who Am I or a Who is this president on my post Saturday. I mean I would hate for all of you to leave this world without knowing the answer that would normally be posted the next day.

There are a bunch of other dilemmas that I have. Do I really need to update me will if we are all leaving the world at the same time? Do I have time to take all my money out of my bank accounts and spend it before Saturday at 6 P.M.?

I kind of liked Craig Wilson's take on this coming Saturday:

http://www.usatoday.com/life/columnist/finalword/2011-05-17-final-word-doomsday_n.htm

I am closing with an inspirational column about a young man that certainly doesn't think the world is ending any time soon:

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/oregonian/steve_duin/index.ssf/2011/05/a_dramatic_turnaround_at_portl.html

I would like you all to know that I have enjoyed every minute with and if we end up in the same place after the world ends Saturday I'm sure we will have some exciting discussions. In the meantime I am wondering what you are doing to prepare for the impending doom? Of course you can also comment on any article in today's post.

PRESIDENTS

"I must study politics and war that that my sons may have the liberty to study mathematics and philosophy and in order to their children the right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture." Born in 1735 and dying in 1826 he wrote these word in a letter to his famous wife. It was one of one thousand letters he exchanged with Abbie. He had five children but outlived three of them and one of my sons would later become president. HBO made our family even more famous. Ask who was number two and you can answer the question, Which president am I?

Let's Be Brief

Just got the word that I don't have to spend tonight at Mom's. The caregiver works tomorrow at her day job so she will be here tonight. She won't get here until late so I am here until Mom goes to bed at eight.

To catch you up on another matter, the really nice lady from date number two e-mailed me that she had a nice time last night and a movie is on the horizon.

Two of the things I like are amazing do it yourself things and stories of kids doing good things. We starting the day off with one of each:

http://www.diylife.com/2011/05/11/diy-projects-from-readymade-100/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk3%7C212931

Some amazing things to do with cans. However, since in Oregon cans are worth a nickel a piece any project using cans could end up being a tad expensive.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chicago/ct-x-c-lou-library-20110511,0,6784721.story

I really admire the boy scout for wanting to do something.

I've been trying to keep my posts brief so I am going to close with a brief article:

http://alllegalinformation.com/lawyer-austrian-lawyer-drops-his-pants-during-questioning-of-his-client/

Fire away.

Yesterday's president was Martin Van Buren.


PRESIDENTS

"If the title of defamation and abuse shall turn, and my administration come to be praised, future Vice-Presidents who may succeed to the presidency may feel some slight encouragement to pursue and independent course." He wrote this in a letter to his eldest son three years after his presidential term ended. He was born in 1790 and died in 1862. He was the first non-elected president taking over the office from a president that died after one month in office. Because the constitution provided no clear procedure to follow a presidents death my term in office was always in turmoil with the previous presidents cabinet nearly all resigned. I was often referred to as "His Accidency". I finished my term and set a precedent that is now the twenty-fifth amendment to the Constitution passed in 1967. Which President am I?

Be Yourself.

The second date went well last night and I am optimistic about a third. I am off to Mom's for the next two nights and Thursday morning. I am really hoping I can get Mom to do things. She is still a little hesitant after the fall last week.

Did you ever wonder why planets rotate backwards? I did:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110512/od_nm/us_flipping_jupiters_odd

Did you ever have a dangerous haircut? I don't think I ever have.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110511/od_nm/us_australian_rules_haircut_odd

Did you ever have trouble being yourself? For me daily.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/living/

Fire away.

PRESIDENTS:

"Unlike all who have preceded me, the Revolution that gave use existence as one people was achieved at the period of my birth." I said this in my inaugural address in 1837. I was the first president born after the colonists declared their independence from Great Britain. Shortly after my election the country was gripped with an economic depression which I had to bear much of the blame. I was also confronted with border issues including the annexation of Texas and disputes along the Canadian frontier. I was born in 1782 and died in 1862. If you answer the question, who was number 8, then you can answer the question, Which president am I?

Bad Directions & Bad Habits.

Heading out to take Mom to the foot doctor and then have a minor surgery on my feet myself. The this afternoon is an early dinner date with Nice Nancie as Seasons & Regions.

One of the things I want to do this week is look for a GPS system. According to an article in yesterday's paper it is still and good idea to have another map with you and it is even a better idea not to ask most GPS systems the shortest route somewhere.

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/05/missing_canadian_couple_experts_say_always_pair_gps_with_paper_map_realize_technology_not_infallible.html

Combined with stupidity I guess the GPS's can be dangerous but what person in their right mind is going off the main roads during winter?

Next up is an article about myths.

http://www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis/osteoarthritis/understanding/index.aspx?xid=aol_eh-arthritis_36-_20100509&icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl6%7Csec3_lnk3%7C213207

Ending the day with an article that really cooks:


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/eatingwell/bad-cooking-habits_b_857705.html?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk3%7C213240

Your comments are appreciated.

PRESIDENTS:

"It will do to suppose that a majority of the sensible and responsible women of the land desire suffrage and admittance to the activities of politics." He wrote these words in an issue of the LADIES HOME JOURNAL titled "Would Women Suffrage Be Unwise.' This president was born in 1837 and died in 1908. He thought women should not vote having been decided by a "higher power" years earlier that only men had that right. This president served two term but they weren't consecutive and he bears the same first name as Bill's brother. His last name will remind you of a city in Ohio. Which president am I?

Moment To Moment Update

Last week wasn't near as busy as next week is going to be. On the agenda this week: Today is phone shopping, tomorrow mom and I go to the foot doctor then tomorrow night date number two with the nice lady takes place, Tuesday and Wednesday & Thursday mornings are at Mom's, Friday is an all day accounting seminar. Saturday is a day of rest.

Last week: Sunday for Mothers' Day I took breakfast over to Mom and we had a nice meal together. For a gift I got her four dynamite serving trays. The ones she had were following apart and I was afraid they were an accident waiting to happen. That afternoon we all went out to dinner. Monday I went to Something Borrowed. Tuesday was lawn mowing. Wednesday I was at Mom's all day and spent the night. Thursday Morning was at Mom's. Friday I went over to fix lunch for Mom as sister and brother-in-law were tied up with medical appointments. We all went to dinner that night to celebrate my brother-in-law's new job with Tektronix. Saturday was hell because mom fell. We did get her backup but the rest of the day she was scared and was in pain all day. I was really afraid we were going to lose her. It was moment to moment. Fortunately this morning she sounded great and I can relax a bit.

The entertainment up date. For the second time in eighteen seasons and all woman team won The Amazing Race. Sisters Kisha and Jen won the million bucks. On the Celebrity Apprentice Nene basically quit and Star was eliminated. As much as I dislike Star I thought Meatloaf should have been sent packing. They are down to four now with Meatloaf and Marlee Matlin on one team and John Rich and Little John on the other team. On Dancing With The Stars Romeo and Chelsea were eliminated when I thought Kirstie should have been sent home. The final four are Hines Ward, Kirstie Alley, Chelsea Kane, and Ralph Macchio. It is a real even field but I am thinking that the football player, Ward, will win.

The blog is now yours. Tell me all about yourselves. Tell me what went on, is going on, and will go on in your lives. Post anything you damn well please.

Cameras, The FBI, and Ghosts.

Today and tomorrow I am at home doing homely things. Paying bills. Picking up leaves in my yard. Cleaning out the garage. I'm really in the get the house in order mode and if only I was in the get my life in order mode.

I'm really glad cameras aren't watching how hard I am working and even happier the cameras aren't watching what I eat:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110513/od_nm/us_food_cafeterias_cameras_odd

Personally, I think that this is a gigantic waste of money and would have rather seen the money go to the teachers or books. What is your reaction to the article?

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be an FBI agent? I have:

http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2011/05/13/what-its-like-to-be-an-fbi-agent/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl5%7Csec3_lnk2%7C213134

I have investigated financial crimes but they were safe and most people didn't use guns just pens and pencils. I really don't think I would want to be an FBI agent, would you?

When cleaning my yard and my house the next two days I'm really homing that all the ghosts that live here behave themselves:

http://www.mydaily.com/2011/05/12/i-lived-in-a-haunted-house-with-a-not-so-friendly-ghost/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl12%7Csec3_lnk3%7C213052

Did you find this story haunting?

Yesterdays' president was Warren G. Harding. For secret reasons today's president will not be Andrew Johnson.

PRESIDENT:

"America did not invent human rights. In a very real sense, it is the other way around. Human Rights invented America." This was said a few days before he passed the baton to the communicator. He had a great wife and a wild brother. He served in the Navy and his life before he went into politics wasn't all peanuts. He championed human rights after he left office and is still doing so today. He was born in 1924. He would have served a second term according to some historians if the hostages would have been released earlier. Which president am I?

I'm Back!

Finally Google Blogs are back up and running.

I got back from Mom's about 12:30 yesterday. She is doing pretty well right now and we had a good two days together. I kept her really busy the two days there and maybe that is the answer. Keep her so busy that she doesn't have time to think about her age or her pains.

Mom is doing better than the Google blogs. They were out all day yesterday and most of this morning. They were set to read only which means that you could read the blogs but we couldn't post a daily entry. There was no way to let everyone know the blog was down. I hope the during the day and a half of being down fixed the trouble that Dona, Pat, & DR were having with the blog.

Let's start the day off with a good story about a pretty darn smart thirteen year-old:

http://smallbusiness.aol.com/2011/05/10/mancans-hart-main-a-13-year-old-entrepreneur-invents-candles-f/

Wish I could have been as smart at that age. I'm not sure I'm that smart now.

Moving on to an unusual way to off encouragement to victims of the Japan earthquake:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110511/od_nm/us_japan_bra_odd

And let's close on a bit of a warning should you own a certain type of truck:

http://www.walletpop.com/2011/05/11/feds-investigate-2-73-million-ford-f-150-trucks-for-fuel-tank-pr/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl7%7Csec3_lnk3%7C212903

Fire away.

PRESIDENT

"It seems as though I have been president for twenty years." I didn't finish my first four year term dying of a heart attack before the term ended. I was born in 1865 and went on to become head honcho at a newspaper. I married the daughter of my arch enemy, nicknamed "The Duchess." Historians often call me the worst president in history, But two years in office isn't long enough to do much damage.Which President Am I?

Never Say Never

Getting ready to take off for Mom's in a bit. Tomorrow's blog entry may be posted early in the afternoon instead of the morning. I never really know what is going to happen at Mom's as her emotions and pain is fluctuating. Sometimes it is difficult to log on to the Internet when I am there, sometimes, it is very difficult.

Today is a special day. Do you know what today is? Check out the following article:

http://www.kitchendaily.com/2011/05/10/15-decadent-recipes-for-eat-what-you-want-day/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl4%7Csec1_lnk1%7C212801

What are you eating today? Going sinful? When at Mom's I dab in ice cream. Mom loves ice cream and doesn't like to eat it alone, so being a really good son I do what a son has to do. Moving on from satisfying food dishes to some good advise if you have back pain:

http://www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management/posture-and-managing-pain.aspx?xid=aol_eh-pain_34-_20100509&icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl6%7Csec3_lnk2%7C212806

I do have back pain amongst other pains throughout both my body and my life. Most of the stuff in the article I already do but there are a couple of things I can add to me regiment and a couple of things I can do more of. What about you?

I've stated before that one of my favorite columnists is Craig Wilson of The USA Today. Today he wrote his take on the word "never",

http://www.usatoday.com/life/columnist/finalword/2011-05-10-final-word-never-say_n.htm

Do you have any phrases with the word never in it that you would like to add to the list? Never date a woman whose idol is Lorena Bobbitt would be my first choice. Can you add more than one?

PRESIDENTS

"My life has been devoted to arms yet I look upon war at all time and under all circumstances as a national calamity to be avoided if compatible with national honor." I was born in 1784 and went on to become a war hero. I wrote the quote shortly before my nomination when I was expressing my political views. I fought in the War of 1812 and The Mexican-American War. My term in office was one year. Illness did me in. My vice president replaced me. You can figure out my vice president's name if you look at a half full glass and wanted it to be full, the vice presidents' last name would tell you what to do. Which President Am I?

USA Today

I read at least two papers a day and most days three. The two papers I read everyday or THE OREGONIAN and THE USA TODAY. I get the local stuff from The Oregonian and the national news from The USA Today. Their editorials will often have different slants. It keeps me informed.

We are calling today USA TODAY day because all of the articles on today's post comes from thme.

I've have felt for years that we needed a viable third party. Neither current party really fits me or my beliefs. Apparently I am not alone:

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2011/05/gallup-poll-third-party-republicans-democrats-tea-party/1

How about you? Are you ready for a third party? Happy with status quo?

The new poor:

http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2011-05-10-new-face-of-hunger-food-assistance_n.htm

Surprising article from the standpoint that so many people could get help and either don't know it is available or they reject the help. What surprises you about the article?

I'm one of those that thinks if a company, a church, a government, or basically anyone finds themselves in a scandal the first thing they should do is confess and apologize. Accept responsibility and make things right is my motto. According to some that isn't always the best:

http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2011-05-09-vienna-virginia-church-abuse-case-lawyers-insurers_n.htm

What is your reaction to the article?

You can read the USA Today at:

http://www.usatoday.com/

KNOW YOUR PRESIDENT:

"I have been almost overwhelmed by the sad even which so recently occurred. I feel incompetent to perform duties so important and responsible as those which have been so unexpectedly thrown upon me." I said this when taking the oath of office. He was a Vice President first a President second and a Senator third. He was born in 1808 and although he was a native of North Carolina but considered Tennessee home. I said pardon often and it upset a lot of the country. Which President Am I?

Truth, Bad Breath, & Arguing.

The day starts with pictures of the new member of DanaRae's household:

DR's favorite picture of the ones she sent me:



My favorite picture of the ones she sent me:



Instead of a Who Am I for a while we are going to do a "know your president " at the end of the blog. I will 'you give a quote and some facts and you have guess the president who said the quote.

Moving on to an article about truth. Disturbing truth:

http://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2011/05/02/25-facts-about-rape-in-america/

From the serious to the unusual. An interesting way to stomp out bad breath.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110506/od_nm/us_korea_kiss_odd

Let's move on to tips on how to argue:

http://marlothomas.aol.com/2011/03/07/the-virtues-of-a-good-argument-and-how-to-have-one/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl8%7Csec3_lnk2%7C212463

Hope your week starts out well and gets better each day!

Comments are appreciatied.

KNOW YOUR PRESIDENT:

"Here in the United States we turn our rivers and streams into sewers and dumping grounds, we pollute the air, we destroy forests, and exterminate fishes, birds, and mammals." This president wrote this in a book review that was published in 1913. He was born in 1858. He was an outdoorsman and sometimes was a bit of a rough rider. Which President Am I?

Mothers Day

Some blog notes before my Mothers Day post. Pat is down with pneumonia, so we wish her a very speedy recovery. Dona's husband, The Shankster, has some tests coming up and has some health concerns we also wish him and her well, good test results, and better health. DanaRae has a new family member, we know Skipper will love her new home.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY EVERYONE.

Chosen as mother of the year by The Oregon Zoo:

http://www.kgw.com/video/featured-videos/Cougar-named-zoos-Mom-of-the-Year-121410894.html

A touching article by a daughter about her Mom:

http://www.oprah.com/relationships/Things-I-Wish-I-Could-Tell-My-Mother-Megan-ORourke

Ending with a poem:

More Than A Mother
By Kari Keshmiry

When God set the world in place,
when He hung the stars up in space,
when He made the land and the sea,
then He made you and me.

He sat back and saw all that was good,
He saw things to be as they should.
Just one more blessing He had in store;
He created a mother, but whatever for?

He knew a mother would have a special place
to shine His reflection on her child's face.
A mother will walk the extra mile
just to see her children smile.

She'll work her fingers to the bone
to make a house into a home.
A mother is there to teach and guide,
a mother will stay right by your side.

She'll be there through your pain and strife,
she'll stay constant in your life.
A mother will lend a helping hand
until you have the strength to stand.

She'll pick you up when you are down,
when you need a friend she'll stick around.
A mother is one who listens well,
will keep her word; will never tell.

A mother never pokes or pries
but stands quietly by your side,
giving you the strength you need,
encouraging you to succeed.

A mother is one who can be strong
when you need someone to lean on.
You're more than a mother to me;
a reflection of Him in your face I see,
a love that knows no boundaries.

I'm glad that you chose to be
all this and more to me.
You share a love that knows no end,
you're more than my mother,
you are my friend.

CELEBRATE TODAY. MOMS MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.

Saturday Update

For the second week in the row, Update Day comes on a Saturday. Tomorrow we will celebrate Mothers' Day with a couple of articles about Mom's including the unusual Mother of The Year choice by an organization in Portland.

Last week was really kind of emotional some ways very stressful. Monday and Tuesday was a very emotional visit with Mark P. to take his wife off of his safe deposit boxes and put my name on it. It never happened because both her parents were on them and both had died. We needed their death certificates. The bank suggested that we closed out the boxes and opened new ones but we didn't do that either. Right before she died his wife paid the boxes for a year. I didn't want him to lose the money so we tabled the change until next February. As executor of his estate I can get into his boxes with a copy of the will. Wednesday was an emotional meeting with Mark W. where I found out he had prostate cancer. Thursday was a really fun lunch date with a pretty cool lady named Nancie. For you Facebook people she is on my friend list. Friday it was dead car day. Four hundred bucks later it was live car day. Also thrown in the week were two nights and one day at Mom's.

After the emotional week I am just kicking back today and resting. The only thing I have scheduled for next week is taking breakfast over to Mom's tomorrow morning to celebrate Mothers Day with her. Then just one night and one day at Mom's. The rest of the week is unscheduled but I am sure it will include some lawn mowing, lunches out with mom, dinner out with the family, and some normal life errands.

Entertainment update. Finally my least favorite Kendra Wilkinson was eliminated from Dancing With The Stars. This week I think Kirstie goes. On The Celebrity Apprentice for the second week in a row the project manager of the losing team was saved because Trump thought they were a stronger team member than someone else, so Holly got sent packing. And in twist Latoya Jackson was brought back from elimination and placed on the men's team. On The Amazing Race eliminated were Kent & Vyxsin. I was glad to see them go. I'm am now rooting for the Globetrotters.

Looking forward to your updates. I would really love to hear from our contingent of one from Singapore. Enjoying the weekend and post whatever you damn will please.

Bloopers, Reunions, & Animals.

My lunch date was a delight, my car wasn't. I wanted to do some shopping for Mothers' Day so I left a little early. I went into Kitchen Kaboodle and checked out some things and then went out back to my car, and the damn thing wouldn't start. I called AAA. Tried to start the car again and bingo it started. Canceled AAA and went to the date. We seemed to be comfortable with each other and talked a lot. Covered a lot of material and had a lot in common. I'm sure there is a second date in the cards.

After the date I ran a few errands and went home for the afternoon. Then about four I went out to get dinner for Mom and take it over to her. She loves the chili at Wendy's. I got the chili and went out to start my car. Didn't start. Five hours late I got home. The car is at the doctor this morning. It's the starter. Four hundred bucks.

Let's start the day with a laugh:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/05/uranus-blooper-who-wants-to-be-a-millionaire_n_858292.html

Moving on to the unsual:

http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-28/news/29483579_1_half-brother-hill-hawaii

Another animal story:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/04/26/state/n080512D42.DTL

Looking forward to the weekend and also your comments!

WHO AM I?

I was born in Colorado in 1916 and died in Los Angeles in 2002. I was Entrepreneur, inventor, and as a president of a company that loved my dolls.. The company was formed by my husband and his business partner. They used scraps from the manufacturing process to make doll house furniture. I noted that my daughter preferred playing with her infant paper dolls and giving them adult roles. I wanted to produce a plastic doll with an adult body but my husband and his partner thought it wouldn't sell. I designed the doll anyhow and debuted it at the New York toy fair in 1959. The doll became an instant success, rocketing my husband's company toward fame and fortune. I was diagnosed with face cancer and had a modified radical mastectomy, which was often used at the time to combat the disease, and because of difficulties in finding a good breast prosthesis, I decided to make my own. I went on to found a company which manufactured a more realistic version of a woman's breast, called "Nearly Me". I wrote a film about the doll and was inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 1997. I died in California from complications of colon cancer at the age of .85. Not only is my doll still famous so is her boyfriend. Figure out their names and you can answer the question, Who Am I?

Good Stories Following Troubling News.

My lunch date is today so wish me luck. The answer to yesterday's Who Am I was Hertha Marks Ayrton

I talked to Mark P. last night after he got home. He said he broke down as soon as he pulled into his driveway. He is going to stay busy the next couple of weeks by working around his property (they have twenty acres) and deal with the legal stuff later. After Mark P. left I stopped by the firm that bought my business to pick up my royalty check, now I need to ask for prayers for another Mark. The Mark that bought my business (Mark W.) discovered during tax season that he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer. It is contained so that is good. The are doing pre-surgery tests now and his surgery is scheduled in two weeks. Prayers, good vibes, good thoughts and anything you have thrown Mark W's way please.

Here is an update on a story I shared a couple of weeks ago. It gets even more charming:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/42824973/ns/today-today_news/

Let's go from the charming to the good. Good and inventive ideas:

http://www.tourismandaviation.com/news-8428--Ever_wonder_what_happens_to_used_hotel_soap_

From the good and inventive to a man that is doing what he can to help others:

http://www.apparelyzed.com/forums/topic/19091-free-wheelchairs-give-new-life-to-rural-mexicans/

Your comments are appreciated. Depending how it goes I may report in on my lunch date tomorrow.

Weird Wednesday

I enjoyed my time with Mark. He really isn't doing well but he enjoyed the visit and he looked better after being here a couple of days. I spend yesterday all day with. We had lunch and then sister and mom joined us for dinner. My sister was just what Mark needed, a woman Sandra's age to bounce things off of. I found out some interesting things about Mark and his wife on this visit. Mark's son is head of security for the Space Needle. Sandra was accepted in the space program but her eye sight kept her from going all the way through it. I think the really hard part for him is when he gets home and Sandra isn't there. They have big house and it is probably going to feel pretty empty. Please keep him in your prayers.

Let's move on to the weird:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/28/nj-limits-chicken-mating_n_854404.html?ir=Weird%20News

Do you need some religion with your tomatoes?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110502/od_nm/us_church_supermarket

Are you remodeling your house here is the best thing to put in your bathroom, trust me it will be a conversation piece

http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_newsroom/20110421/od_yblog_newsroom/check-out-the-worlds-most-advanced-toilet

Comment Away.


WHO AM I?

I was born in 1854 and died in 1923 living the life as a English engineer, mathematician and inventor. I attended Girton College, Cambridge where I studied mathematics, and passed the Mathematical Tripos in 1880. At that time, Cambridge gave only certificates and not degrees to women. I successfully completed an external examination and received a B.S. degree from the University of London. I married one of my teachers and assisted him with experiments in physics and electricity, and began my own investigation into the characteristics of the electric arc. I was the first woman ever to read my own paper before the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE). Shortly after I was elected the first female member of the IEE. I invented a draftsman's device that could be used for dividing a line into equal parts as well as for enlarging and reducing figures. I was also active in devising and solving mathematical problems, many of which were published in "Mathematical Questions and Their Solutions" I was agnostic, but retained close ties to the Jewish community" I may be hard to find unless you read my bio again and search for firsts. That should help you answer the question, Who Am I?

Clothes To Goodwill or Chairs?

I had dinner with Mark last night. He didn't really look good and said he hadn't eaten for a month. He did have a really good dinner last night so he finally go some food in him. We are going to lunch and dinner tomorrow. In the morning we are going to his bank because he named me as personal rep of his estate and wants me on his safe deposit boxes. Awesome responsibility but how can I turn him down?

Because of the Stunning News of yesterday I saved yesterday's post for today. Starting the day off with a good story:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/01/how-a-stem-cell-transplan_n_856012.html?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl1%7Csec3_lnk3%7C211747

Going from the good to the troubling:

http://www.npr.org/2011/05/01/135813656/war-turning-mexican-kids-into-targets-or-killers?sc=fb&cc=fp

Ending the day with just some amazing creativity:

http://www.shelterpop.com/2011/04/29/rememberme-chair/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-sb-n%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk3%7C211614

My blog posts will probably be short this week. Mark got here yesterday and will be here today. I am at Mom's Tuesday and Wednesday night. Thursday is my lunch date. Please excuse the brief posts! And remember that your comments are always appreciated.

PS

The answer to yesterday's Who Am I was Peace Pilgram, also known as Mildred Lisette Norman.

Hell Awaits

Bin Laden is dead. A small special unit of U.S. Troops performed a special operation last night in Pakistan. The US has his body and checked his DNA. Bin Laden is dead.

The feeling I have right now must be a lot like the feeling many had when they found out Hitler was dead. I really am reluctant to celebrate anyone's death but the world is a safer place without Osama Bin Laden in it. The relatives and friends of those lost on 9-11 now have closure. The death won't bring their loved ones back but the man that caused their death received the justice he deserved.

Some expect there to be retaliation attacks so I am happy that our friend Mary is safely home. The irony is that she was in England on 9-11 when the attacks happened and home from England only a few days when Bin Laden was killed.

I remember 9-11 like it was yesterday. I remember the horror of the attacks.

North Tower Collapses:




The South Tower Collapses



I remember thinking what evil person could cause such a tragedy.

The Pentagon:



I remember crying for our losses and for what the world had become.

Flight 93:



I don't like celebrating anyone's death but forgive me I am going to celebrate this one. Hell awaits.

Outside the White House last night:



WHO AM I?

I was born in 1908 and died in and died in 1981. I was born under another name than I am known by. I was an American pacifist, vegetarian, and peace activist. I was the first woman to walk the entire length of the Appalachian Trail in one season. I then changed my name and walked across the United States for twenty-eight years. I stopped counting miles when I walked more than 40,000 km (25,000 miles) for peace. I was born to a mother that was a tailor and a father that was a carpenter. I was quoted as saying: "In order for the world to become peaceful, people must become more peaceful. Among mature people war would not be a problem - it would be impossible. In their immaturity people want, at the same time, peace and the things which make war. However, people can mature just as children grow up. Yes, our institutions and our leaders reflect our immaturity, but as we mature we will elect better leaders and set up better institutions. It always comes back to the thing so many of us wish to avoid: working to improve. ourselves." I walked three decades for peace. My only possessions were the clothes on my back and the few items I carried in the pockets of my blue tunic. I had no organizational backing, carried no money, and would not even ask for food or shelter. When I began my walk I had taken a vow to "remain a wanderer until mankind has learned the way of peace, walking until given shelter and fasting until given food." I was killed in a car accident while I was crossing the United States for the seventh time. Have you walked, taking STEPS TOWARDS INNER PEACE? Who Am I?

Yesterday's Post

I had a really nice time at the party last night. It was held at Players which is a combination sports bar, restaurant, video arcade, and bowling alley. It was from four to six so I got home pretty early. It really is a nice group.

Let's start out with the kind of weird:

http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/04/newport_woman_wakes_up_after_surgery_speaking_with_british_accent.html

Now let's move on to some amazing technology. I really do hope they have this in place by 2015:

http://autos.aol.com/article/smarter-vehicles-talk-and-avoid-crashes/?icid=main%7Chp-laptop%7Cdl7%7Csec1_lnk3%7C211727

From the weird and the amazing to the are you kidding me.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110427/od_nm/us_circumcision_ban

Comment away.