Thursday, March 31, 2005

Question Of The Day

Can someone really fall in love with someone else even when they've only ever met via Internet?

I hear about people claiming this happens, but I wonder how real it is.

Baseball Contest

I'm stealing this idea from Pepsi. They have a contest going where you pick the winners of all the Baseball teams opening day games. I think we should do this, so I will put up a 3.75 lb. bag of yummy candy for the person who picks the most right from the following list of opening day games. You can post your answers in comments or e-mail them to me at yankeebob63@hotmail.com.

In the event of a tie, after choosing your winners, tell me what you think the runs scored total will be from the Yankees and Red Sux game. (ex: Yanks 25, Sux 0 total runs = 25)

Good luck.


Pick the winner of these games:


Visitors vs. Home

Red Sux vs. Yankees
Royals vs. Tigers
Brewers vs. Pirates
Indians vs. White Sox
Mets vs. Reds
Athletics vs. Orioles
Nationals vs. Phillies
Padres vs. Rockies
Blue Jays vs. Devil Rays
Twins vs. Mariners
Cubs vs. Diamondbacks
Braves vs. Marlins
Dodgers vs. Giants
Cardinals vs. Astros
Rangers vs. Angels


Total runs scored in Sux vs. Yanks =

Wednesday, March 30, 2005

Fun At Ruby Tuesday

Well, the search for a decent steak tonight was fruitless. This town has no decent filets available anywhere. Or, should I say, anywhere I looked. So instead of grilling tonight, Nicci and I went to Ruby Tuesdays.

I haven’t been there in a very long time and I was pleasantly surprised. The salad bar was awesome. The food was good. The dessert was amazing. But truthfully, the best part was the people. You all know I’m a people watcher and this place was a gold mine of blogger nuggets!

The fun started immediately when we walked in the door. The hostess greeted us and all I could think was “Wow, look at Molly Ringwald with blond hair.” She looked a lot like Molly Ringwald. Of course that started me looking for more celebrities working the tables. Sure enough, there were quite a few. There was Nick Lachey at the bar. There was Kelly Ripa and the woman from “King of Queens” waiting tables. So was the blond, geeky singer guy with glasses from this years American Idol. (OK, so I suck with names tonight.) There was even a Ginger Lynn Allen look-alike. She brought our order to the table. I started wondering who did the hiring there. Everyone working was a pretty darn good looking person. I knew I was going to like the place. ;)

Our waitress sealed the deal. She really looked like Amanda Peet. A lot. Plus, she was one of the best waitresses we’ve ever had anywhere. Very personable and attentive.

Then the fun started. When we were seated there was no one else in our section. After a little while, the place started filling up. To our right and up one booth was a family of Mom, Pop and 2 little girls. Twins. Cute little girls. Well behaved. The Pop wasn’t so well behaved. Every time Amanda came by, he would run his eyes up and down her entire body. When she walked away, his eyes were glued to her butt. I really didn’t blame him. The girl was very attractive. Problem was he sucked at being discreet. I watched him watching the waitress and his wife watched him several times too. I got to see her reaction easily since she was sort of facing me. She didn’t seem to be appreciating his appreciation of Amanda.

Then he blew it. Amanda squatted down at the booth directly across from them and started taking an order. When she squatted down, her little shirt rode up and her pants pulled down a little, exposing a lacy underwear top. Ol’ Pop over there couldn’t stop looking. There really wasn’t all that much to see, so his intense staring made me pretty sure about how his love life was going. His wife also noticed Amanda squatting; by following her husbands eyes to the target. She started staring right at his face as he stared at the almost view of the pretty butt.

After a few minutes Amanda finished taking the order and stood up, tucking her shirt back into her pants. Pop sighed as she walked away and slowly turned toward his wife. The wife with the laser beams boring a hole in his head. When he saw her staring at him he knew he was busted. The look on her face was enough to scare the crap out of anyone. (Not me. I was enjoying this one.)

Through gritted teeth I heard her say “Did you get a good look, Honey?” She really accented the ‘Honey’ part. As soon as she started talking that way the 2 girls stopped what they were doing and just sat up straight. It seems this must have been the ‘Mommy corrects bad things’ voice. The guy just turned red and said something really stupid. “I wasn’t looking at her”. Uh huh. What a dope. When he said that I started laughing. (Nicci kicked me hard in the shin to keep me quiet, but it didn’t work too well.) She then leaned over and gave him a 5 minute bitching session that I’m sure he wouldn’t forget. The little girls excused themselves right in the middle of it and went to the restroom. I tried not to listen in (yeah) but I did overhear stuff like “You promised” and “humiliate me” and “you asshole”. My guess is this guy had a history of roaming eyes and maybe worse. Either that or the woman was a serious over-reactor.

Any way, the kids came back and the parents stopped ‘talking’. Totally stopped. For the remainder of the time we were there. As we left I stood up and the woman’s eyes met mine. She sort of half-smiled at me, knowing that we and several other tables had probably overheard the whole incident. When she half-smiled at me, I blew her a kiss. You should have seen her eyes. They got as big as saucers. Her husband turned to see what she was looking at and I winked at his woman. Then Nicci and I left.

Now that was fun!

Finally Home For A few Minutes.....

Today has been a hectic one, but since the weather is so awesome, I haven't minded a bit. Cruising around, windows down, sun roof open, good tunes playing (thanks to Cindy Lou and the Blogger CD). Quite the pleasant way to run errands.

I guess you can tell I'm not working today. Had to take the Jeep in for it's first oil change. The book says it doesn't have to go in before it reaches 3000 miles, but I'm just not made that way. Old school logic dictates that the first oil change must be done after 500 miles and before 1000 miles. The motor has a break-in period and the first 1000 miles can make the oil a little dirtier. So, I took it in today. Screw their book.

I also had to take one of my kitties to the Vet. She's having a bout with throwing up a lot. Other than puking several times a day, she's fine. So we're having some blood-work done to see if she got into something toxic. It's a bit expensive, but worth it.

Last night I found out my Uncle has been diagnosed with cancer. That's been constantly on my mind today. Apparently a spot on one lung. They are supposed to check it out closer today/tomorrow to see how hard it will be to treat. It 'appears' to be still isolated on that one spot. I really hope so. This next few months will be hard for him and my Aunt, and for those of us who are close to him. I just want to scream "THIS SUCKS!!!", but I won't. I'll let it take it's course, pray about it and go with whatever comes along. But it does really suck.

The weather today is awesome. Broke out the grill to get it ready. Going soon to get some filets for grillage tonight. Gonna sit on the deck and enjoy the evening and try to unwind from my travels. Hopefully I'll get the time to catch up with everyone tonight. Hopefully.

A Leftover From Yesterday

I had been trying to post this since yesterday afternoon. It looks like Blogger is working now, so here goes.....



Today I had Tuna Noodle Casserole for lunch. I love Tuna Noodle Casserole! I remember how it used to be a joke on TV sitcoms about someone having it and it sucked. I never understood that. I could eat it all the time. It does give me indigestion sometimes. Usually when I use too much salt. But that's my fault.

I like old time, home style stuff like that. I love Meatloaf too. I could eat that weekly. Cold or hot, doesn't matter. Cold meatloaf sandwiches are the best!

One thing I never understood is Pot Roast. How boring can you get? It's usually less than flavorful and a lot of times tough. Then there are the side items, always potatoes. Bleech! YB hates potatoes.

I don't like Turkey sandwiches either. Peachy and I were talking about this one. Real Turkey is one thing, but sliced turkey like at Subway, has no flavor. I sometimes get a turkey sub thinking this time it will be better. But it never is. I always get suckered. It sure looks like it should be good.

Tonight I had one of my favorites, a couple of hot dogs with all the trimmings (except chili). I could eat dogs every day. It made me really excited for tomorrow. Tomorrow will be warm and sunny and I'll be breaking out the grill and using it for the first time this year. Oh yeah!

I'm happy today that I had the tuna casserole. Can you tell?

Tuesday, March 29, 2005

Question Of The Day

I have lot's of these things floating in my brain so expect this to become a regular thing.


Why is prostution illegal in (almost all of) this country but making porn movies is not? It seems like pretty much the same thing to me.

Disclaimer: This is no commentary toward a pro or con stance. Just a question.

Freaky Start & New Poll Posted

“Walk right back to me this minute
Bring your love to me don’t spin (send) it
I’m so lonesome every day.”

I woke up singing this song today. I had no idea why plus I just couldn’t remember what song it was. I had to Google the words to find out. Turns out it was originally The Everly Brothers. Worse yet, Anne Murray did it too! How did my brain remember something done by either of them? And more importantly, why?

Now I’m worried about this day. How can a day start out that freaky and not keep being freaky? I’d better be on my toes today.

The new Poll is posted. Remember that you can pick multiple answers now, so choose as many as you want. Don’t be shy about adding to the list via comments too. I’m sure I don’t know all the possible answers out there.

Monday, March 28, 2005

Latest Poll Results

I guess this one showed us... not much? Some wanted to be rich, some happy and the same amount wanted to cure disease. Some are already happy just being themselves.

Personally I voted to be rich. I believe I could find lots of happiness if I were. At the least, I'd have the opportunity to try. I never bought into the line that money doesn't buy happiness. I think that's just something rich people say to appease poor people. I don't believe money buys happiness per sey, but it gives you the chance to explore more ways to find it. Most people are pretty limited in ability to experience the world, myself included. I may be way off base, but I prefer to find out things on my own rather than listen to others.

I'll post a new Poll today. Unfortunately, I have to get some work done this morning. Damn work, interfering with blogging.




Given the chance to change the cosmos and jump right in, which would you rather be right now?

Selection
Very rich. 6 votes
Very happy. 6 votes
A movie star. 1 vote
A television star. 0 votes
A rock/music star. 2 votes
A great scientist who cures cancer & the common cold. 6 votes
Just me. 3 votes
A CEO of a huge corporation. (A la Donald Trump) 2 votes
President 0 votes
Others: Write in suggestions 0 votes

It's Almost Over, Or Is It?

It's sounding like Terri Schiavo is just about gone. Doesn't that sentence sound cold? I do wonder if she has any understanding of her situation at all. But I also wonder a few more things about this whole mess.

I've seen the pictures just like everybody else and noticed that she was a very attractive woman when her heart stopped and she ended up with brain damage. All brought on by bulimia nervosa, a psychological eating disorder. An attractive woman in the prime of her life destroyed by her desire to stay attractive & thin. Apparently a person develops bulimia by believing they are gaining weight and starting to look unattractive. I find that sickeningly ironic.

I also don't like the fact that the Federal Government tried to intervene after the State Government had decided the legal issues. It's a state issue and the feds overstepped their bounds.

I certainly don't like what's happening. I feel bad for Terri, for her family and for her husband. No one wins in this story. Now there looks like another conflict will arise because her family wants her to be buried in a Catholic Cemetary in Florida and her husband wants her cremated in Pennsylvania. The poor woman isn't dead yet and there is another storm brewing.

The family and the husband couldn't agree with what priest should administer last rites. There's a guy trying to rob a gun store to get a gun and force his way in to feed her. The nuts camped outside are said to be planning some kind of crazy stunt to try to save her. Now there is a fanatic preacher going to Capitol Hill trying to get the feds to again intervene. What's next?

I say, let her go. The legal part is over-with. Intervening by some goofy political stunt is basically illegal. The most important part is, let Terri have some dignity. At least a little if any can be found anymore. At this point, it's impossible to know how or even if she feels anything about this whole scene at all, but I'm pretty sure she wouldn't appreciate all the stupidity surrounding her. Personal opinions aside, the legal battles are done. Give it a rest and let her rest in peace.

Sunday, March 27, 2005

You Can Drink The Coffee, Just Don't Listen To The Music

So I’m at Starbuck’s this morning talking with K, waiting for my morning fix and the music in the background is nagging at me. There is a song playing that somehow sounds familiar, but while I’m having a conversation, I just am not paying enough attention to recognize it. Then another customer comes in and K is helping them. That’s when I focus a bit and realize the song is someone doing a cover version of the Who’s “Let My Love Open The Door”.

I was shocked to finally recognize it. It was a country singer doing a pseudo reggae version of the Who’s classic rock song. Freakin weird! It sucked so bad that it was barely recognizable. I started laughing and K asked what was wrong with me. I told her how I finally realized what the music was and how horrible it was. The other 2 women there looked over at me and started laughing about it too. They told me that the Starbuck’s music selections were getting weirder all the time. They said yesterday there was some cd playing of ‘modern’ hip hop singers doing old style jazz songs, like Billie Holiday stuff. I’ll bet that was weird.

I really can’t stand when a country singer does a bastardized version of a classic rock song. This version was the funniest, stinkingest (is that a word?) most absurd version of any that I had ever come across. When I said that everyone there got a good laugh at least. Then when I was leaving a new song came on. It was a Janis Joplin song being destroyed by a woman country singer with that extreme twangy, country sounding voice/accent. It was bad. I stopped, looked over my shoulder and rolled my eyes. They all just started laughing.

I wonder who decides what music selections are played in the stores? Oh well. At least the Starbuck’s coffee is still good.

Saturday, March 26, 2005

Miss Congeniality 2

Ok, those who guessed that I would be willing to pay ($8.50) to see Sandra Bullock's new movie were right. Actually, it shouldn't have been a tough guess if you've read this blog for any length of time.

The movie is great! I can't say enough about how good it is. I expected to like it because of my obvious infatuation for Sandy, but it really surpassed my expectations. There are so many hilarious parts in this one that my ribs hurt after seeing it.

I'm not going to give much of the story away so that you can go enjoy it for yourself. There were so many different, funny characters in this one, it would be hard to tell about them all anyway. The story line was a little bit predictable, but I think it wasn't supposed to be any kind of mystery. Plus, Sandy and Regina King make a good pair. Their characters are at odds most of the movie and they do a great job of making that part interesting.

Go check it out. I loved it and not just because it was Sandy. Although, that is a pretty good reason to go too.

Friday, March 25, 2005

Betcha Can't Guess...

I'm leaving a little early today. Just can't take it no more! But tonight I'm actually going to spend some money to go to the theatre to see a movie. I'll bet you can guess which one I'd actually spend the $8.00 on, can't you?

I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend.

Mean Is Funny

I just found out that I make Peachy laugh by being mean to one of our co-workers. She said she likes it when I pick on him. I just told him that an old friend who left the company had asked about him and asked if he was still working here. I answered her that yes, he was still here but we were trying to change that. He laughed, but I was almost serious. ;)

For the record, I'm only half-picking on him. I've known him for 18 years. We worked together at my old job. I'd say he's a friend, but he's also not a friend. It's just more fun to pick on him. He laughs and gives it back too, so it's not a big deal. He just doesn't give it back as good as he gets it. (Few do!) At least Peachy enjoys it, so why change someting that works, eh?

It's Friday!

Finally, it's Friday! I don't know how anyone else feels about it, but this week has felt really long to me. It's like, this time last week we were already into Sunday or something. Definitely time for the weekend.

One of our big cheeses brought us a nice little goodie bin this morning for the holiday. It's been raided pretty well already. I could smell the chocolate chip cookies coming long before they got to this building. It's a gift I have. I can't resist chocolate chip cookies.

Then we had a discussion going about doing a Slurpee run this morning. There is a new Sponge Bob Slurpee that is really good. I think it's a great idea! You never know what we'll do over here.

It's looking like work today will be more of an annoyance than usual. Everyone has weekend fever. This could end up feeling like the longest day of the week. Oh well, at least it's the last.

Thursday, March 24, 2005

The Jogger Brought This On

Two nights ago I was driving home and in the distance I noticed a jogger. The part of the road I was on was a long straightaway so the jogger was a good distance from me. Needless to say, I couldn't tell if it was a guy or a gal.

Now, don't think badly of me, but when I see a jogger in the distance I get interested. I'm always hoping it's a good looking, athletic babe out for a good workout. (C'mon guys, you know that thought goes through your head too.) I just assume that women hope it's a good looking guy. True???

Anyway, when I got close I saw it was a guy. He was in great shape and looked to me like someone women would like to look at. I say that with caution because, for some reason, the guys I think women will find attractive a lot of times aren't. I guess I was a little disappointed to be honest, but I think anyone who is in great shape like this guy was is good looking. I'd just rather see a woman jogger.

This started me thinking about times I've been out with one of my best friends (a woman) and we would pick out people we thought each other would find attractive. I'd say that maybe 50% of the time the people we'd pick for each other was acceptable. That's really not a good average. It's amazing how diversified physical attraction can be. I'm not talking about when you know someone well and find them attractive (or not). A person's personality can make them even more attractive (or not) even if they don't have the appearance of a movie star or something. I'm talking about the 'first glance' kind of thing. Purely physical.

I've never had a blind date or even been set-up with someone by a friend. I think that would be pretty tough for someone to do for me. I know I wouldn't want to try doing it for someone else. Not unless I knew each person really well and knew their personalities would mesh. I wonder how people decide to accept a blind date? I think the anticipation would be tough, wondering what the person is really like, if they are pretty (or not) and what happens when you meet the person and you either find them really attractive (or not)? How do you keep from showing your glee/relief (or disappointment) when you finally meet them? I suppose that's when you have to become the actor.

This reminds me of when Jerry and Elaine set up George on a blind date with Elaine's friend. "Does she have a pinkish hue?" That turned out well. ;)

Can you see how my mind works? I notice a jogger and it sends my thoughts into a totally different world. Sometimes even I wonder about me.....

I Just Had To Know....

I got this from Grace who go it from Just Another Nickname's Blog. Love the results! Can't get much better than Charlize! (Unless her name is Sandy.)


ETonline: Who's Your Celebrity Soulmate?

Wednesday, March 23, 2005

Who's Booze Is Best?

Did you ever notice how happy people can be when you agree with them? They also can be butts when you don't agree. I'm talking about agreeing with simple stuff too. Not necessarily something earth shattering.

Last night I stopped at a liquor store for my weekly donation to the Lottery fund (I will win someday!) and a young girl was there buying a case of Milwaukee's Best beer and some miniatures. In my mind I thought, "Now there's some nasty beer." But I said nothing.

Then a guy came up with a case of Guiness and a fifth of Absolute Citron. In my mind I was drooling at the Guiness and from out of nowhere I heard my voice saying, "Now that's the good stuff." (Again with the talking before thinking thing.) The guy looked at me and smiled and said, "Yep, nothing but the best!"

Now the girl pipes up and says, "I don't see how you can drink that shit! It's so nasty!" Then the owner starts in on her case of Milwaukee's Best being rot gut and the guy starts telling her the same thing and she starts picking at the guy for the Absolute (BTW, YB likes Absolute too.) and showing him her selections of miniatures, which she had 5 of and some were good ones, like Cuervo Gold. The owner starts laughing at both of them and brings out a bottle of Blackberry Brandy and starts telling them both that they are way off base. Then Guiness guy starts offering to do a taste test right there. He even starts to break out the Guiness and the girl is all over that, ready and willing to break into her $9.00 case of Milwaukee's beer. That's when the owner decides they better chill because he knows he can't allow them to have a drinking contest in his store.

The whole time I'm just standing there, watching and smiling, knowing that I started something quite entertaining and very much by accident.

This got me thinking about how agreeing with people will help you to make friends but disagreeing can get you the opposite. For instance, say you're in an elevator climbing to the 35th floor and there is someone there you've never met. They mention casually that the weather is nice and you respond in kind. Then a conversation can usually begin that will branch off to other topics and maybe a lunch and then maybe a new friend can be found.

But when the weather thing comes up and you respond with something like "I don't think so! It's too hot for me", usually the conversation has ended. No further questions, your honor.

These kinds of things are good to recognize. If you are like me (moody) and you choose to quickly end the conversation, just answer negatively when spoken to. Or don't bother to answer at all if you choose to come across like an a-hole. On the reverse, if the mood is good, you can make a new friend. Blow them off later if you choose. I think I've learned something valuable here.

Of course the antics at the liquor store could have ended up either way. Maybe the Guiness Guy and the Milwaukee Chick could have gotten together after doing a taste test. Who knows? Booze can change everything.

I enjoyed the 'Best Booze Challenge' that I inadvertantly instigated last night. It's not often that you can stumble into something entertaining and educational at the same time.

BTW, I still didn't win the Lottery. I'll try again later this week. Maybe there will be some more funny booze buyers there to strike up a conversation with.

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Out With The Old.....

I noticed something interesting tonight on the way home. (Interesting to me I should say.) I saw a new Mustang traveling on the highway next to an older model Mustang. Talk about contrast! I didn’t really think about it when I started seeing the new model on the road, but when you put the 2 styles side by side, there really isn’t any comparison. The new Mustang is such an improvement over the older style that I sort of feel bad for people who got one last year. They probably saw this year’s model and started cussing Ford Motor Company right away, knowing they were stuck with one for a few years before they could upgrade. Sad really.

I’ll bet in the near future we will see a lot of Mustangs 2 years old and older sitting on the used car lots. Plus the convertible comes out this summer. Can’t wait to see that. Normally I don’t care much for Fords, but I think this whole retro idea is very cool. I have a friend who is considering buying a convertible. Guess who’s getting a test drive when he does?

Thinking Out Loud (Sort Of)

During my adventures yesterday I talked with many people I knew, some as friends and some who used to work for me. A couple of the reunions were a bit shocking. One guy that had worked for me came over to talk and when he smiled I saw he only had one tooth left in his mouth. (He didn't have a full mouth 4 years ago either, but sheesh!) He's a pretty OK guy, a bit hard-headed, but an excellent worker. That smile creeped me out! This one scraggly tooth sticking up from the bottom of his mouth, glowing yellow and looking lonely... yuck! I almost asked him, "Why not just pull it and be done with it?" Even no teeth would look better than the 'boys from Deliverance' look.

I also noticed the receptionist was still talking about her kid. This doesn't sound like too big a deal, but when I left, it was the only topic of conversation she ever had. Back then I would walk to her desk and she would be telling someone about something her kid did or some story about the kid. It was never ending. And if someone else chimed in and mentioned that their kid had a similar experience she would interrupt and say something like "That's nothing, my kid...." She's still the same. How many stories can you have?

Then there are the ones who haven't changed much, but it's a good thing. A couple of the women I was friends with still were sweet and gave me a hug, just like always. Maybe not the most professional way to conduct an interview tour, but wtf, right? There was also the hottie that didn't care who was around and gave hugs and pecks on the cheek freely. She's still a hottie. There was also the 2 guys that always gave me a hard time about everything. In a friendly, 'who can rank on who the best' kind of way. Seeing them again was fun. They still didn't mind insulting me and getting it back. Guys can be like that.

Then there were the surprises. One woman in particular is a big cheese type that I always though was sort of attractive but didn't care to try too hard to be. Now she's a bit different. She has lost weight, toned up, added slight coloring to her hair and she looks great. I was pleasantly surprised. Also, one of the guys I knew has also done some slimming and cleaning up and he looks really good. His change was more of a surprise.

Another very pleasant surprise was when an old friend who had left the company a few years before me magically appeared. She left to join the FBI and, the last I heard from her, she was in Brooklyn. Suddenly there she was. Back again, married with a kid. It was really great talking to her. I plan on getting together with her to catch up again.

The very best part was having lunch with my 'special friend'. Have you ever met someone who you have an instant connection with and the chemistry is just perfect? That's how she and I are. (I'm talking friendship chemistry only. And yes, Nicci knows her well.) We've managed to keep up with one another over the time I've been gone, but it's always great to hang with her and goof off for a while.

I guess reading over this I can see that it's not so much the job that I remember but it's more the people. Probably that's the draw toward maybe going back. A job is a job. People are what make it pleasant or, unfortunately, unpleasant. I do miss the interactions, even the weird ones. Where I am now, it's a strange world indeed. Going from the old place to the city has been weird. The characters are all present, just not as many and not nearly as many pleasant ones.

There's no real point to this post. I'm just thinking out loud (sort of). It's cool to have a place to document these things so I can look back later. Maybe I'll look back in a few hours and think I'm a goofball or something. Who knows?

Monday, March 21, 2005

My Day In The Zoot Suit

So today I had an interview at the place I left to come to my current job. They contacted me about a position they have open and I decided to go and hear what they had to say. I don't know how many of you have done something like this, but for me, it was almost surreal going back through the place after 3 1/2 years. I spent 14 years at the old place. I started there when it was a decent size company and when I left, after all the growing pains and the place had tripled in size, I didn't give it too much thought anymore. Just some of the people.

It looks the same, almost. There have been a lot of cosmetic changes (for the better) and I could still find my way around easily enough, but there is a lot missing too. Some departments that I had worked closely with for 14 years don't even exist anymore. Departments and department personnel. There is a new extension on the back of the place where a totally new product has been added. When I left the company this product was an experiment. Now it's fully into production with it's own brand new wing. The hallways and even the utility areas are clean and very professional looking. (That's a big change.) I was impressed.

I was a little sad too. A lot of the people I knew are no longer there now. There were some massive changes made and new talent required, so 'off with the old, on with the new' I guess. I did see a lot of old friends too. Some survived and it became like old home week for a little while.

It's funny how you can just take something for granted, like it will always be the same and then you find it's nothing like it was in your memory. In my head I always thought that if I didn't like my new job, I'd just go back to the old place and get started there again. That's never a sure thing with any job. But the naive little dope in my head had been convinced of it anyway.

Over all it was a really good day. I got a full tour of the 'new' place, got to talk shop with some really interesting people, got to see a bunch of old friends and got to have lunch with a very special friend afterward. I had such a good time that I almost forget it was an interview for a new job. How weird is that? Looking back on the day, I have to say that I don't really care about the job at all. It was just a lot of fun to be back in the old place and know that at least part of what I helped build into a successful company still survives. Somehow that's a bit of a comfort.

Busy Morning

Gotta do a quick post this morning. I’m traveling incognito today. Yes Meritt, I used that word correctly this time. :) Truthfully, you wouldn’t recognize me in this get up I’m wearing right now. I guess you wouldn’t recognize me anyway since I’ve never posted a pic. You get my meaning. I’ll be tied up until well after lunch so I’ll be missing my blog time. Ah, the sacrifices we make. I hope everyone had a great weekend. I’ll catch up this afternoon. Wish me luck. I’ll explain later.

Saturday, March 19, 2005

A Quiet Day

I haven't had a lot of time for blogging today so I thought I'd do something quick here.

I just finished watching the first Scooby Doo movie. (Yeah, I'm a little behind.) I got both of them when I joined a DVD club. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it. I had doubts going in. It was very entertaining. The best part (besides S.M.G.) was that that piece of dog poop Scrappy Doo was portrayed as the bad guy. The little flashback where they gang dumped him along the side of the road was great! I always hated Scrappy Doo. When he showed up, I stopped watching. The cartoon got bad after he was introduced. (I never liked Scooby Dum either.) Now I need to make time to see the second movie.

I also managed to get caught up on Battlestar Galactica. Easily the best show on TV right now. I know I've probably said that before. Just trust me, it's great.

This was an unusual day. I visited. I had a visitor. I was the laundry bitch, which isn't unusual, but I did manage to get it all done. I had a veggie sandwich today. That's really unusual for me. I just wanted to try it. I got the bird feeders ready. I can't wait for all my colorful little Finch friends to come back. Our arbor is a continuous play place for them and I keep the feeders full all the time. It was such a beautiful warm day I had to hang out outside for a while.

I finally got an e-mail from Blogger support. They said their machines (yes, they said machines) were over worked and developed problems. Yeah, we all guessed that one. They said they've added a few more machines and planned on adding at least 2 more to permanently fix it so we won't see posting and commenting problems again. I hope it works. This past 2 weeks have sucked. At least I finally heard from them.

Basically a decent day. Nothing spectacular. Just pleasant. Nothing to write home about. A little something to write a blog about. ;)

Friday, March 18, 2005

A Good Night Out

Tonight Nicci and I felt like going out for dinner instead of hanging around the house eating the same old stuff. We went to this really cool old Tavern that has been there since the late 1700's. It's an awesome old building that has been many things including an Inn, a Tavern, a Hospital during the civil war and a blacksmith's shop. There is literature there explaining all the different things it's been and all the different owners.

The people there dress in the clothing of the late 1770's period and a lot of the food is made from recipes from that time. One dish is even called the Ben Franklin because it's what he had when he visited the place.

Tonight they even had a minstrel in period clothes with what looked to be an antique guitar of some kind. He was walking from room to room playing and entertaining everyone. When I first saw he was there I was hoping he would leave us alone but you know the old saying, wish in one hand - crap in the other.

He came into our room and talked with the accent of the times teasing me and the one other guy there about how we could possibly managed to have the company of such 'fine lasses'. He went on and on and was actually kind of funny. Then he started playing and tried to get us to join in singing to our women. At first he would say the words and then do the line over again, expecting us to be able to follow along. It took me a while to recognize it, but finally I was able to sing along when the chorus came. The song was The Last Farewell by Roger Whittaker. (Remember? "...for you are so beautiful and I have loved you dearly, more dearly than the spoken word can tell....")It's a pretty song, a bit melodramatic, but the way this guy did it made me want to sing along. It was fun. After the song, he bowed and went on into the next room. I found myself a little disappointed. Funny how I was hoping to avoid that scene and then I managed to enjoy it anyway.

I love old places like this one. I hear there is one in Gettysburg in a building just as old where each dining room is dome in a different era style. It's a big place and there are apparently many different rooms to check out. I'll have to do that one soon.

Tonight turned out better than I had hoped. The food was awesome and the place is amazing and now I'm stuffed, fat and happy. At least for one night.

You Know What Really Sucks?

People that spit where others have to walk. We just got back from lunch and before getting into the truck to come back I (luckily) saw that someone had spit a big, nasty spot right near the spot on the sidewalk where I had to walk. A bit farther down I saw a big spot right in the middle of the sidewalk. Some people are really disgusting. No manners at all. Have I mentioned how gross this city is?

This One Was Fun

A cool quiz bummed from El Sid. Some wacky questions in this one.




I am a d12


Take the quiz at dicepool.com




This survey is completely scientific. Despite the mind-boggling complexity of mankind, the billions of distinctly different personalities found on Earth can easily be divided into seven simple categories that correspond to the five Platonic solids, a pseudo polyhedron, and whatever the hell a d100 is. The results of this quiz should be considered not only meaningful but also infallible, and pertinent to your success as a fully realized individual. If you feel the results of this examination do not match your perceived personality, you should take whatever drastic measures are needed to cram your superego back into proper alignment, as described by the quiz results.

Let's Just Kill Them All

I'm very confused about this case going on in Florida. The woman, Terri Schiavo, who has brain damage and her ex-husband is trying to kill her. I do get it when someone is brain dead and they are comatose, totally no chance of recovery. I'd want what's left of me to be taken off the machines too. But I've seen Terri on video and she isn't brain dead. She's responsive to people and semi-active.

To me, there is a huge difference between brain damaged and brain dead. Terri is not brain dead. Plus, why does an ex-husband have the right to decide her fate? Maybe I need to investigate the story more to understand that point, but the woman isn't a vege, so where is the issue?

Can you imagine how she will react when the feeding tubes are removed? (Assuming they will be.) To starve someone to death really stinks. Starvation and dehydration are quite unpleasant and Terri will feel it. How can people actually think there is something to debate here? I'm confused.

Thursday, March 17, 2005

The Week In Review (Sort of)

I’m going to try to remember some of the things I was trying to post about all this week. Blogger wasn’t letting me post anything and I feel the need to catch up.

This week Congress they are having hearings on steroid use in Baseball. Now, I totally agree that the cheaters using steroids should be smacked down. The problem needs to be addressed better than the lame assed way the Commissioner and the all-mighty players union have agreed to handle it. Which is, of course, to keep allowing steroid use with little-to-no penalty if caught. The problem(s) I have with this whole scene is, first why is Congress involved? The Baseball people should have handled it right away. Now they have the Government people messing in their business. Second, why isn’t Barry Bonds in the hot seat? He’s the most obvious cheater. It’s most likely a money thing. He is close to hitting enough home runs this year to pass Babe Ruth’s homerun mark. Steroids be damned, Baseball wants the revenue.

Blogger has sucked for well over a week. That’s not news. I still like it better than the other blog hosting sites I’ve found so far. It may be a little while before I find a place I like well enough to start the new blog and/or move this one.

Robert Blake was acquitted this week. The jury said that the prosecution didn’t ‘put the gun in his hand’. His excuse was that he had left his gun in the restaurant, went back in to get it and his wife got shot while he was in there. If that isn’t the lamest, most made up sounding story I’ve ever heard… wait, what did O.J. say at his trial? Oh yeah…..

Michael Jackson is on trial too. That’s a screwy guy. It’s pretty obvious that he’s not quite right. I’m not sure what he’s doing with those kids sleeping in his bed, but it can’t be good. What is wrong with the parents of theses kids? He’s also up to his ‘I’m sick & injured’ tricks again. When the pressure is on, Michael gets sick. He’s just looking for sympathy votes. The guy belongs in a nut house.

I’m still addicted to Frosted Mini-Wheats. I’ve had all 3 kinds this week. (And Peachy has helped munch a few too)

I saw an ad that claimed the O.C. was the best show ever on television. Uh huh.

I keep hearing about possible candidates for president in the next election. I think this is strange. Shouldn’t we wait until say… 3 years at least have passed before trying to pick new candidates? Some of these people that have been mentioned may not even be around then.

SciFi had another cool home-made movie on last Saturday. Mansquito. It was about a crazy homicidal maniac that tried to escape and got some experimental mosquito DNA all over him. Then he turned into a 7’ tall Mansquito! It was so cheesy and so cool. I love those cheesy SciFi movies.

Well, those are just some of the things I was thinking about. I’m tired and drawing a blank right now on any more. Maybe tomorrow I’ll remember something else.

Are You Observant?

I found this on someone's blog a while ago and forgot I had saved it. Sorry whoever you are. I can't remember where it came from. It's fun to try. Plus this can be my hourly test to see if I can post anything yet. Good luck! (To us all.)


This can be more difficult than it looks - it just shows how little most of us really see! No cheating! No looking around! No getting out of your chair!
No using anything on or in your desk or computer!

The average is 7

Write down your answers and then check your answers (on the bottom) only AFTER completing all the questions.

REMEMBER - NO CHEATING!!! --- BE HONEST!!!

That means no looking at your phone or anything on your desk...



LET'S JUST SEE HOW OBSERVANT YOU REALLY ARE.


Here we go! 27 questions.....

1. On a standard traffic light, is the green on the top or bottom?

2. How many states are there in the USA? (Don't laugh, some people don'tknow)

3. In which hand is the Statue of Liberty's torch?

4. What six colors are on the classic Campbell's soup label?

5. What two numbers on the telephone dial don't have letters by them?

6. When you walk does your left arm swing with your right or left leg?

7. How many matches are in a standard pack?

8. On the United States flag is the top stripe red or white?

9. What is the lowest number on the FM dial?

10. Which way does water go down the drain, counter or clockwise?

11. Which way does a "no smoking" sign's slash run?

12. How many channels on a VHF TV dial?

13. On which side of a women's blouse are the buttons?

14. Which way do fans rotate?

15. What is on the back of a Canadian dime?

16. How many sides does a stop sign have?

17. Do books have even-numbered pages on the right or left side?

18. How many lug nuts are on a standard car wheel?

19. How many sides are there on a standard pencil?

20. Sleepy, Happy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey, Doc. Who's missing?

21. How many hot dog buns are in a standard package?

22. On which playing card is the card maker's trademark?

23. On which side of a Venetian blind is the cord that adjusts the opening between the slats

24. On the back of a Canadian $1 coin, what is in the center?

25. There are 12 buttons on a touch tone phone. What 2 symbols bear no digits?

26. How many curves are there in the standard paper clip?

27. Does a merry-go-round turn counter or clockwise?






ANSWERS

1. Bottom
2. 50
3. Right
4. Blue, red, white, yellow, black, &gold 5. 1, 0 6. Right 7. 20 8. Red 9. 88 10. Clockwise (north of the equator) 11. Towards bottom right 12. 12 (no #1) 13. Left 14. Clockwise as you look at it 15. The Bluenose 16. 8 17. Left 18. 5 19. 6 20. Bashful 21. 8 22. Ace of spades 23. Left 24. Loon 25. *, # 26. 3 27. Counter

Wednesday, March 16, 2005

Tuesday, March 15, 2005

A New Quiz

Got this one from Grace. The results aren't really a surprise.






Your Brain is 46.67% Female, 53.33% Male



Your brain is a healthy mix of male and female

You are both sensitive and savvy

Rational and reasonable, you tend to keep level headed

But you also tend to wear your heart on your sleeve


A New Quiz

Got this one from Grace. The results aren't really a surprise.






Your Brain is 46.67% Female, 53.33% Male



Your brain is a healthy mix of male and female

You are both sensitive and savvy

Rational and reasonable, you tend to keep level headed

But you also tend to wear your heart on your sleeve


Latest Poll Results

Here are the results from the cliche Poll. I did this one just so I could add the 'Love conquers all' choice and apparently most of you agree with me. Maybe my struggles aren't quite so unique after all? BTW, Grace wrote in a vote for each one.

The new Poll is even better. You can choose more than one answer, plus write ins are always fun to read, so add to the list via comments (assuming blogger will allow comments). Sorry, just felt a little snide there.


Which of these cliches is the biggest pile of bull#@%$?

Selection Votes
Love conquers all. 33% 9
If you love something, set it free..... 15% 4
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. 4% 1
If it doesn't kill me, it makes me stronger. 4% 1
You are a loser only when you fail to try. 7% 2
Every cloud has a silver lining. 4% 1
There is a light at the end of the tunnel. 0% 0
It has to get worse, before it gets better. 15% 4
It is better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all. 4% 1
All good things come to those that wait. 15% 4

27 votes total

Blogger Nightmares

Yesterday I tried to post that last post all afternoon. It would not work. Then I come in this morning and the stupid thing is posted 5 times and is saved as a draft 3 times. WTF? I tried to comment on many blogs, but most of the time all I'd get would be that damn Internal Error message. Is anyone else having these types of problems? They have been happening to me for about 8 days now and it doesn't seem to be getting better no matter how many times I ask Blogger Support for help. I'm ready to dump this damn site and find another one. Don't be surprised if I do it soon.

This is assuming this post works. Freakin Blogger!

Monday, March 14, 2005

A Little Help Please

Yesterday Nicci and I stopped in Bed, Bath and Beyond for some rug cleaner stuff she wanted. Now, I knew going in that there is no such thing as going in for 'just one thing'. I don't mind this store too much though. There's lots of neato things for me to look at.

As we walked in a clerk walked up to us, asked us how we were and if she could help us in any way. Well, being the decent person Nicci is she replied she was fine and inquired as to how the clerk was doing. When she did, the woman's eyes lit up. She even exclaimed that she was fine, thanks, and that no one had ever asked how she was before. (I assumed she meant in this setting. I'd really have felt bad for her otherwise.) I should have known this would lead to another interesting development.

As we headed to the area where our 1 item was, we stopped to look at dish towels. Nicci remembered that she needed to replace some older ones in the kitchen. Well, Happy Clerk immediately jumped out from behind a towel rack offering to help us find whatever we needed. Nicci explained that she had gotten these particular dish towels from a catalog and she loved them, but had never seen them in any store and that’s what she was looking to see if she could find. Well, this sent Happy Clerk into a tizzy. She must have taken half a dozen different towel types down to show us, none of which was anything near to what we had described to her. We mentioned that they were all white. She showed us all prints. ??? I guess she just wanted to help us out really bad. After about 10 minutes of re-re-describing what we were looking for we finally managed to extricate ourselves from the aisle of the hopeless helper.

We didn't get very far when Happy Clerk pops out from around the corner with a new towel selection that still didn't resemble in the least what we had described. Nicci was very patient with her and told her again what it was we would be interested in.

We moved a little further along the main aisle of the store to where our 1 item actually was, got what we had come for and headed toward the back of the store, just to browse on our way out. Before we got too far, Happy Clerk showed up again with yet another suggestion for us to look at. Now I was getting worried. She started reminding me of a gnat that wouldn't go away. Eventually you have to squash a gnat to get rid of them. Once again we let her know that what she had chosen wan NO WHERE NEAR to what we had described. Once she walked back to her area where she was no doubt trolling for others to kill with assistance, Nicci and I hurried to the other side of the store, laughing at the irony of it all. Normally you can’t get anyone to help you at all in these places. This person wanted to help us to death.

Well, we almost made it out, but of course the bedding area stopped us and we lingered too long. Who should pop up but Happy Clerk with 2 more colorful choices in her hands. We were on the opposite side of the store in an area where she herself had told us that someone else would help us with anything we needed. I almost started laughing in her face when she showed up again. When she heard that her newest choices weren’t going to work again, she decided that she would show us where some material was that we could probably make the dish towels with. Bed sheets. She wanted us to buy bed sheets and make the towels. Once again… ???

Well, we made it to the checkout and almost out of the store. At the checkout Nicci noticed that the can of carpet stuff had a big dent and a broken cap. The lady at the checkout asked if we wanted to exchange it. Nicci and I just looked at each other and started laughing. The carpet stuff was located right in the center of Happy Clerk’s territory. Kinda like in the middle of the Bermuda Triangle. I volunteered for the hazardous duty. I hurried along the aisle and when I saw her luckily she had her back to me. I zipped around behind her walking like one of those weird ‘speed walkers’ and made it safely to the shelf, got the cleaner and turned to make my escape. As I turned I saw her looking my way, her face lighting up like a Christmas tree. My mind quickly ran through my options and without much thought, I turned and speed walked all the way around the store the long way back to the front doors. I was winded by the end, but I did manage to outrun our over-exuberant friend.

This person was quite the opposite of store clerks you usually meet. It was hard to be annoyed with her since she was being too helpful. To the point of being obnoxious helpful! I have to wonder if she would have been that way if we hadn’t started out by being friendly to her first?

Weekend Update

I have to admit something, I really like the show Newlyweds. Nick & Jessica crack me up. I even went and bought the DVDs for the 1st season. I never saw any of the 1st season because I just assumed it would suck, but after seeing some of the 2nd, I decided it was pretty funny. Those 2 are really opposites. A true Odd-Couple. So there you have it, YB is a fan. I don't care to hear either one singing at all. That weird voice worbling Jessica does is no good. Plus the hand spasms she has remind me of Joe Cocker. Nick just sings pop stuff that I can't stand. Like that Timberlake dork who really sucks a lot.

Speaking of Timberlake, how did he get to be involved with the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame ceremonies? All these great names like Eric Clapton, U2, B.B. King..... and Justin Timberlake??? Blasphemy, if you ask me!

While I was cruising the aisles at Best Buy I also came across the special edition of the movie "Legend". I had no idea there was a special edition. That is a cool movie. One of my favorites. I can't stand Tom Cruise, but in this one he's OK.

I finally got caught up with Battlestar Galactica this weekend too. That is a great show. It's so much better than the original. At this point it's easily my favorite out there. Until Baseball season starts, of course. Then it will be 2nd best.

I really didn't intend to do an entertainment post. It just turned out that way. I guess that's what's on my mind this morning.

Sunday, March 13, 2005

The Weather Channel Is OK

Yea! It seems as though the commenting thing is fixed. J mentioned that she could comment yesterday. Maybe I was one of the last ones allowed since I sent a bitchy e-mail to blog support. Maybe I deserved it?

I noticed this morning that I really don't like it when there are 2 guys on the Weather Channel. Maybe the ladies out there like that, but not me. I like checking out how the women are color co-ordinated and how they make little jokes to each other and chuckle as they look into each others eyes. (Keep in mind that I never turn the sound on so all of these ideas come from my imagination.)

I really like to see what Cheryl Lemke's hair will look like. It's usually not very flattering. It's strange to me that someone as attractive as she is and who's job is on television doesn't have a decent hairdresser. She needs to fire whoever gives her that helmet head look and turn her back into a woman again.

Yep, there are some babes on the Weather Channel all right. Since Nicci is a weather channel junkie, I get to see all of them every day. Kim Perez, Cheryl Lemke, Hillary Andrews, Alexandra Steele, Heather Tesch , Kelsa Kinsley, Kelly Cas, they even have their own J-Lo, although she's not quite the hottie of the more famous J-Lo, she's a good weather person.

Well, I guess this will be a catch up day for me since this blogger thing seems to be healthy again. I'm looking forward to catching up.

Saturday, March 12, 2005

Freakin Blogger

I've noticed some comments popping up out there. I still can't comment but I assume that the problem is on the mend. I really don't want to switch to Haloscan, but I might have to. We'll see tomorrow. Right now I'm just too frustrated to care.

Until tomorrow then.....
this is an audio post - click to play

Friday, March 11, 2005

I Guess The Secret Is Out

Found this quiz on Freebird's blog thanks to direction from Peachy. I'm surprised I scored so low! ;)



Cupid - Free Online Dating and Match

This Is A Test.....

I'm attempting this post as a test. This is the first time I've been able to get into my blog since yesterday morning. Assuming this works, I'll do something later so dazzling that everyone aroung blogland will be talking about it for weeks to come!

OK, maybe that is a bit over the top, but it was really fun to write it.

BTW, Mel says to say hi to everyone and we aren't to worry about her absence. She's just really busy and will return to us as soon as her work life calms down a bit.

Ok, here we go..... "Posting commencing Captain, T minus 3 seconds....."

Thursday, March 10, 2005

Who Wears Jammies To Bed?

The last few nights have been so cold that I’ve actually started to consider getting some pajamas to wear to bed. For me, this is a big deal. I haven’t worn any since I was a kid. I’m just not sure what kind to get or even what may be available that I don’t know about, since I’ve been out of the loop for so long.

I think it would be fun to have some of those Dagwood Bumstead jammies. The kind that almost look like a soft business suit. They have a collar and the shirt buttons down the front. Maybe a pinstripe? I hear pinstripes give the illusion of a person being slimmer. Problem is they just don’t look comfortable enough to sleep in.

Maybe I could get the kind I’ve seen in the Playboy catalog. They look like silk, all smooth and soft. Then I could pretend to be like Hugh and imagine all 7 of his blonds were in bed with me. Well, maybe that’s not a great idea. Nicci might not appreciate sharing the bed with 7 sexy blonds, even imaginary ones. I’d probably slip up and start calling her Bambi or something.

Maybe I could get some of those cool Italian athletic looking pajamas. The kind with the stripes down the legs and the crest on the shirt. Those are sleek. They remind me of a pro tennis player. Of course the downside is that they might get me pumped up for a workout and I might not be able to sleep very well. (Nicci could benefit from me being more wide awake though.)

I’ve always liked the porn star satin jammies. All shiny and sexy. They have the ‘come and get it look’ that all guys want their women to see. I’d like those but they have a tendency to be a bit chilly. Plus anyone who has ever slept on satin knows it’s slippery. I could end up sliding right out of bed and getting hurt. Besides, what good would they be if they get me action every night and I only wear them for maybe 10 minutes? Not much sleeping going on there.

I’m just not sure what would be best. Maybe I could get some suggestions? I know summer is coming soon and this won’t be an issue, but for right now, I’m tired of being chilly at night.

Wednesday, March 09, 2005

YB Loves The Grocery Store

Well, it’s been a while since I’ve done a grocery store trip story. I’ve been there but there really wasn’t much out of the ordinary happening, until tonight. I think the nuts were waiting to come out all at once.

The shenanigans started in the fruit and vegetable aisle. There was a woman there with a young girl, I’m guessing the girl was maybe 5-6 years old. The woman was apparently deaf and blind where the girl was concerned because to kid was dancing up and down the aisles singing (of a sort) and grabbing stuff and either squashing it or throwing it around. She grabbed a couple of bananas and literally broke one almost in half and then threw it back up on the pile. She grabbed a handful of grapes and shoved them into her mouth and with grapes and grape juice flopping out of her mouth proceeded to the next area. Her Mother would occasionally say something to her like, “Calm down or you’re going to get it”, but she said is so disinterestedly that the kid never took her seriously. As we were thankfully leaving the aisle I looked back and saw the kid reach up into the piles of lettuce and drag a bunch of them onto the floor. The Mother was quite a distance away from her. I doubt she ever knew.

A little later we were in front of the coolers where the fresh meat is on display. This store is the same as almost all other grocery stores in that it is dangerous to stand too long in this area. It’s like there is some kind of manic reaction to people getting near the raw meat and they become like Neanderthals. We were looking at the beef when suddenly, without warning, a cart rammed right into my back with enough force to push me ahead a little. I turned around to look at my attacker and there was this little tiny woman who had to be about 100 years old. Her cart was still in contact with me but she was looking at the meats like nothing had happened. I just stood there staring at her, waiting her out. In my mind this was actually kind of amusing. I could see her doing the slight glancing thing in my direction, but she wouldn’t look at me. I still was determined to wait her out. Finally she had had enough of me staring at her and she grabbed her cart, looked me right in the face and cackled “Why don’t you watch where you’re going?” I just busted out laughing as she proceeded to wrestle the cart down the aisle nearby. That still makes me laugh. Feisty old bag.

Now we’re close to being done and as we’re cruising past the Pharmacy I hear someone to my right side yelling at me. I turn to see who it is when someone from the left side starts talking to me at the same time. I’m stopped dead right in front of the Pharmacy with one person on my right that I hate running into because they just don’t know when to stop talking and let a person go. There is another one of them on the left side who could possibly be even worse. These 2 are the type that I don’t mind if they exist, but I’d rather they existed elsewhere because they make me crazy with their hour long talks about nothing. So for about 15 minutes Nicci and I have this woman on one side yapping away about her Grandkids and this guy on the other side blathering on about his health problems and I never really got much out of either ‘conversation’. I felt like a pinball bouncing between the two and they never even acknowledged one another the whole time. It was a strange scene. Then suddenly the woman just stopped talking and said “Nice seeing you again” and walked away. Immediately the man did the same thing. Sudden quiet enveloped us and the abrupt change sort of stunned us. It took a few seconds to recover and get going again.

As we were leaving there was an SUV parked right in front of the doors and the motor was still running. I walked past to go and bring the car up and noticed 2 young boys jumping over the front seat and then back again like it was a game to them. This sort of bugged me. Who would leave their truck running with young kids in it? I brought the car up and as we loaded our stuff in it we could see the boys taking turns pretending to drive the truck. I kept thinking that this is how major accidents happen. A negligent parent too lazy to walk a few extra steps lets the kids in a running vehicle and they do something to make it go. Then the parent ‘just can’t understand how it happened’. Eventually a woman came out, got into the truck and left, but it was a good 10 minutes that I had seen the thing sitting there. Stupid woman.

Well, there’s my trip to the grocery store this evening. As always, the place is full of free entertainment. Sometimes unwanted, but it’s there all the same.

A New Cool Quiz

Bummed this one from Lynn. Kinda funny, I scored the year I graduated high school. Quite appropriate I think.






You Belong in 1981



1981





If you scored...

1950 - 1959: You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in!

1960 - 1969: You are a free spirit with a huge heart. Love, peace, and happiness rule - oh, and drugs too.

1970 - 1979: Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all!

1980 - 1989: Wild, over the top, and just a little bit cheesy. You're colorful at night - and successful during the day.

1990 - 1999: With you anything goes! You're grunge one day, ghetto fabulous the next. It's all good!


The Superhero Poll Has Disappeared

I just got word from Pollhost that they had a major crash and many accounts were lost, including mine. The Superhero Poll is gone. By last count (I checked sometime over the weekend) The X-Men were way ahead, so it's safe to say they are everyone's favorites.

The new Poll is up. More of a deep thinkers Poll this time. :)

Tuesday, March 08, 2005

Warning For Men

Warning:

Police are warning all men who frequent clubs, parties and local pubs to be alert and stay cautious when offered a drink from any woman. Many females use a date rape drug on the market called "Beer".

The drug is found in liquid form and available almost everywhere. It comes in bottles, cans, from taps and in large "kegs"

"Beer" is used by female sexual predators at parties and bars to persuade their male victims to go home and have sex with them.

A woman needs only to get a guy to consume a few units of "Beer" and then simply ask him home for no strings attached sex. Men are rendered helpless against this approach.

Many times these unfortunate men are swindled out of their life's savings in a scam known as a "relationship".

In extreme cases, the female may even be shrewd enough to entrap the unsuspecting male into a longer term form of servitude and punishment referred to as "marriage".

Please! Forward this warning to every male you know. If you fall victim to this "Beer" and the women administering it..... there are male support groups where you can discuss the details of your shocking encounter with similarly affected like-minded guys.

For the support group nearest you, just look up "Golf Courses" in the Yellow Pages.

Tuesday Tuesday

Well it's Tuesday and I just don't feel like writing any posts today. I really didn't yesterday either. I'll be Comment Man today I think. Unless something interesting pops up. So everybody, be ready for a visitor. I'm coming over.

Funny thing, the Pollhost place is screwy. I tried many times to get into it and post the results of the Superhero Poll but I can't. Wouldn't it be ironic if the whole thing was wiped out after 3 weeks of voting and we don't get to see the final results? I've sent an email to them to see what's happening. I know everyone is soooo anxious to see what the results were. Just be patient, take some sedatives. I'll let you know asap.

Monday, March 07, 2005

Monday Monday

It's Monday. Yay. I'm a bit slow this morning. Last night I finally saw Shrek. I joined this DVD club and it was the first one I watched. I ended up wondering what all the fuss was about. I thought it was OK, but after all the hype, I guess I expected more. It wasn't all that great. I hear the second one is better. I'll give it a look soon.

I decided to leave those extra posts that aren't supposed to be there alone. A monument to the futility of my blogging attempts last night. Damn blogger. I really don't want to use that Haloscan, but right now I'm seriously tempted.

A clarification for Meriit (and anyone else who cares): When I say I'm looking forward to being a dirty old man I guess it means different things to different people. In no way do I mean a child molestor or anything gross like that. I'm looking forward to being able to wear the big ol plaid shorts with the striped or Hawaiian shirts and dark socks. I'll even polish some dress shoes just so they shine and really stand out. I'll be the old guy in the nursing home who likes to pat the young girls (50 years old or so) on the butt and they'll just laugh and say "You're such a dirty old man" and I'll just laugh. Old guys get away with things like that. That all sounds like fun to me. Right now if I'd pat someone on the butt I'd get a smack or arrested or something, even an older woman.

Just wanted to clarify that one. I'm not trying to be a perv. It's going to be a busy day. I hope all is well in blogland.

Sunday, March 06, 2005

Again & Again

I can't Comment again. I've tried on 8 different blog friends' sites and only CL's is working. This damn blogger is frustrating some days.

I just wanted you to know I've tried. Maybe later tonight will be better.

Again & Again

I can't Comment again. I've tried on 8 different blog friends' sites and only CL's is working. This damn blogger is frustrating some days.

I just wanted you to know I've tried. Maybe later tonight will be better.

Again & Again

I can't Comment again. I've tried on 8 different blog friends' sites and only CL's is working. This damn blogger is frustrating some days.

I just wanted you to know I've tried. Maybe later tonight will be better.

Again & Again

I can't Comment again. I've tried on 8 different blog friends' sites and only CL's is working. This damn blogger is frustrating some days.

I just wanted you to know I've tried. Maybe later tonight will be better.

Again & Again

I can't comment again. I've tried on 8 different blog friends' sites and only CL's is working. This damn blogger is really frustrating some days.

Just wanted you to know I tried today. Maybe tonight it will be better.

Philosophy 101

Things to ponder this day:

Is it OK for to yell "Fire!" a crowded movie house after the lights are out?

If you have candy and your friend doesn't, is it best to eat it in front of your friend who has none or should you wait until you are alone?

If the Pope shat in the woods, does it still stink if no one is there?

Is it OK to discriminate against people who really are dumber than you?

When the sun really does shine brighter on you is it OK to brag about it?

When you invite someone over for a dinner date just because you want to boink with them, is it OK to serve the appetizer in the bedroom?

At what age is it OK to start using the excuse of being a 'dirty old man'?

And how come there aren't any 'dirty old women'?

Is it OK to silently break wind on a crowded airplane?

And does it make a difference if you are in 1st class or coach?

When someone's dog poops in your yard, is it OK to train the owner by rubbing their face in it?

If you see 2 women kissing in public is it wrong to cheer them on? (Ladies may want to substitute men for women here.)

If your spouse cooks something really crappy for dinner is it OK to make fake barfing noises at the table?

When someone says something really stupid to you in front of your boss is it wrong to go "Duh!" really loud in their face?

And finally, when reading something as thought provoking as this is it OK to make derogatory comments to the author?

Saturday, March 05, 2005

A Pretty OK day

Well, it's been a good day. I took my old PC to my Mom's house and set it up for her. She's pretty happy with it. I also visited with my Uncle for several hours at his store. That's always fun for me. Topped it all off with a filet and salad from Outback with Nicci. All in all, a pretty good day.

Tomorrow we'll head back to PA to celebrate my Uncle's birthday with the family. I guess the diet is blown this weekend. Too much good stuff around.

This morning when I was at Starbuck's (you expected anything different?) I was in line and I noticed this woman looking at me. I looked back at her and immediately I thought she looked very familiar. I could not remember why though. A short time later I looked over and she was again looking at me and this time she smiled. I smiled back and then she looked away. I paid for my coffee and when I turned around the woman was leaving with a friend. When they went by the big window, I saw the friend clearly and suddenly I knew who she was. I knew them both. I'll just call them T & K here. T I hadn't seen in maybe 10 years but K and I still communicate sometimes. We were all buds way back when. They were roomies and they shared this great apartment right downtown. I was so sad that I didn't look around early enough to see K because I'd have loved to had the chance to catch up with both. Damn the luck. Plus, I usually check out everyone in a place I go into. Normally I would have noticed K, but I was distracted by trying to figure out who T was. I hate when that happens. Sometimes second chances like that never happen again.

Well, that's enough blabbering on about nothing. I hope everyone had a good Saturday. Time to catch up with the blog world.

Couple'a Thoughts I've Had Recently.....

I'm just getting started on what probably will be a very busy day. I most likely won't be able to blog until late this evening, but I did want to provide everyone with some food for thought. Who knows, maybe there will be an audioblog in this day since I'll be on the road so much.


I've been singing "Too Hot To Trot" by the Commodores a lot lately. One of those times where a song just gets stuck in your head. Remember that song? It's from back when Lionel Richie was cool. Then he went solo and all cry-baby and started sucking. Blah! I like that song along with "Brick House" and "Easy". Good stuff.

I noticed something recently on the highway; women who drive Volvo Station Wagons tend to be sexy looking. (Out of the car, who knows for sure?) But they look classy and sexy. Can't say that for a lot of other station wagons.

I also noticed that men driving mini-vans seem to think they are competing in the Indy-500 or something. I'm thinking that this is an over-compensation thing, trying to get past having a family type vehicle and not having a Corvette or something. Or maybe it's just that men in mini-vans are assholes. ???

Isn't the word "dealership" funny? It would be quite a trip to be traveling on a ship of dealers. You might need body armor. Those guys are territorial. If one of them walked out onto the wrong deck that was someone else's territory, there would be a shootout for sure.

Or it could be a gamblers paradise. Nothing but card dealers. Of course, you can't expect to win anything since they are all professionals, but wtf, it would be fun.

Did anyone notice that Pierce Brosnan's wife is kind of.... not so attractive? I find that odd because I think he's a pretty good looking guy. I always find it strange when a big star who is good looking isn't with someone else like them. Damn, I suck at being PC. Anyway, you get it, I hope.

I also noticed that I still think that Star Jones person sucks. Where did she come from again? Someone in bloggerland told me once. She should go back to wherever it was.

Friday, March 04, 2005

Who's The Literary Champ Of The Afternoon?

Another quote from one of my personal favorite books. Where's it from?

"And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

"What is essential is invisible to the eye."

The New Martha

Does anyone think Martha Stewart is sexy now that she is an ex-con?

Another Quiz

A new one from El Sid, Queen of the cool quizzes.






You Belong in the USA







Sweet!

People either love you or hate you

And you really don't care what anyone thinks

Big and bold, you do things your way


A New Addiction For YB

It's official, I am now officially addicted to Frosted Mini-Wheats. I've been having them as a munchie for some time now. I've been keeping one of those Glad plastic resealable containers on my desk filled with them and snacking as the day goes forward. Today I've got the Vanilla flavored ones.

I guess there are worse things to be addicted to. They are seemingly a healthy munchie. They also help with keeping a regular system cleanout schedule. (Get it?)

Well, I'm not going to try to justify it, I just really like them and I'm going to keep scarfing them down, at least until I find something else that distracts me. Which invariably happens in a short period of time. For now, I'm a happy Mini-Wheats cruncher. :)

Who's The Literary Champ Of The Morning?

The following is a quote from one of my favorite books. Whoever can guess which book it is will have the title of Literary Champion Of The Day! (I know, you're all aquiver.)

"I was about half in love with her by the time we sat down. That's the thing about girls. Every time they do something pretty, even if they're not much to look at, or even if they're sort of stupid, you fall half in love with them, and then you never know where the hell you are."


BTW, no cheating by Googling or anything. I have mind powers. You will be caught.

Strange Start To A Possibly Strange Day

This morning my breakfast has consisted of cherry Toaster Strudels, soon a Harry & David Dark Chocolate candy bar that I found in my fridge (surprise!) and Irish Cream coffee. To begin with, It's Friday and I'm in Friday mode, including the goofy mood, and this 'health food' diet will only add to the mood.

Also this morning when I started up the car to leave for work, New York New York by Frank Sinatra was the first song playing on the cd player, so I knew the Yankees couldn't have lost their Grapefruit League game yesterday. (I was right by the way. The game ended tied.) Did Ropemonkey get to a game yesterday?

Speaking of the Yankees, a bunch of us went out to lunch for 2 co-workers' birthdays yesterday and the place we went to had the Yankee game on. It was really hard to leave, but I did leave with a good feeling. When the boys of summer are playing ball, you know that winter is on it's last legs. That's really exciting.

So I guess there is a combination of things helping me into this good mood this morning. Stay tuned for further posts. I feel a few coming on......

Thursday, March 03, 2005

Another Quiz

This one is from Nina. I'm not really sure what to say about my results. There is only one question to answer and this is what they decided?






You are






A Summer Quiz

Got this from Summer. It looks like fun.

X the ones you've done: (I added the comments just because I can’t resist)

(X) snuck out of the house (Many teenage nighttime adventures began this way.)
( ) gotten lost in your city (Too small.)
(X) saw a shooting star (My wish didn’t come true.)
(X) been to any other countries besides the united states
( ) had a serious surgery
( ) gone out in public in your pajamas (Does taking out the garbage count?)
(X) kissed a stranger (Juliet in red! What a night!)
(X) hugged a stranger (This is what beer gets you.)
(X) been in a fist fight (Kids!)
(X) been arrested (DUI’s suck!)
(X) done drugs (Does pot count as a drug?)
(X) had alcohol (Duh!)
(X) laughed and had milk/coke come out of your nose (PEPSI burns too!)
(X) pushed all the buttons on an elevator (Keeps the ride going longer.)
(X) made out in an elevator (Love in an elevator….)
( ) slept in an elevator
(X) swore at your parents (They started it!)
(X) kicked a guy where it hurts. (Been kicked too. Ouch just doesn’t cover it.)
(X) been in love (Still am.)
(X) been close to love (Stood right beside it and it ran away.)
(X) been to a casino (St. Louis riverboat gambling is fun.)
( ) been skydiving
( ) broken a bone
(X) been high (Tried pot 3 times. It makes me throw up.)
(X) skinny-dipped (Chilly! Shrinkage!)
(X) skipped school (Got busted too.)
(X) flashed someone
( ) saw a therapist (I’ve watched Frazier on TV.)
( ) done the splits (I’m not really sure what this is????)
(X) played spin the bottle (Here’s a game you really can’t lose.)
(X) gotten stitches (Dog attacks suck!)
(X) had an IV (Morning coffee.) **
( ) drank a whole gallon of milk in one hour (Why?!!?)
(X) bitten someone (Trading bites can be fun.)
( ) been to Niagara Falls (I really want to do this.)
(X) gotten the chicken pox
(X) kissed a member of the opposite sex (Once. Maybe twice.)
( ) kissed a member of the same sex
(X) crashed into a friend's car (Actually crashed his car for him.)
( ) been to Japan
(X) ridden in a taxi (Did you know that in Denmark the Taxis are Mercedes?)
(X) been dumped (Dumped hard!)
(X) shoplifted (Once as a kid and I got caught. A short crime career for me.)
( ) been fired
( ) had a crush on someone of the same sex
(X) had feelings for someone who didn't have them back (This really sucks!)
( ) stole something from your job
(X) gone on a blind date (I wished I was blind at the time.)
(X) lied to a friend
(X) had a crush on a teacher (She had one on me too!)
( ) celebrated mardi-gras in new orleans (I wish.)
(X) been to Europe (Several times.)
(X) slept with a co-worker (Didn’t experience all the so-called ‘complications’ either.)
(X) been married (Ah, the bliss!)
(X) gotten divorced (Ah, the bliss!)
( ) had children (Does inheriting a step-child count?)
( ) saw someone die
( ) been to Africa
(X) Driven over 400 miles in one day
( ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
(X) Been on a plane
(X) Seen the Rocky Horror Picture Show (Fell asleep too.)
(X) Thrown up in a bar (This is pleasant.)
(X) Purposely set a part of yourself on fire (IPS class in school. What fun!)
(X) Eaten Sushi (YB LOVES sushi!!!)
( ) Been snowboarding
( ) Met someone in person from the internet. (I’m still waiting….)
( ) Been moshing at a rock show
(X) Cut yourself on purpose (To save someone’s life.) **
(X) Been to a moto cross show (Been in some too, if this includes races.)
( ) lost a child (Darn it, where did I put that kid?)
(X) gone to college
( ) graduated college (I’m a dope.)
( ) done hard drugs
( ) tried killing yourself
(X) taken painkillers
(X) love someone or miss someone right now (Somehow this is a continuous thing with me.)


**Just checking to see if you were paying attention.

Wednesday, March 02, 2005

A Favorite Yankeebob Recipe

Tonight I made one of my favorite sandwiches. I thought I’d share it with my blogger friends. It’s a simple thing to do and very worth the time.

First you need a lightly toasted onion bagel, toasted just enough to warm it up. Then you splootch on ketchup (Heinz, of course) all over each side of the bagel. As much or as little as you want. Then you add a thin line of French’s Sweet & Spicy mustard on each side, making a perfect circle around the middle of the bagel. Next you add a round slice of provolone cheese on top of each bagel half. Note: you can add any type of spices onto the bagel face before adding the cheese. I added hot relish tonight.

Set these parts aside for a minute. Now you make 2 hot dogs any way you prefer. I prefer them done on the grill, but seeing as my deck is under half a foot of snow right now, I just did them in the microwave. Once they are ready put the bagel halves into the microwave and heat them just long enough to start the cheese melting. Now we are ready for the assembly.

Slice the dogs down the middle but not all the way through. Open them up and lay them flat on the bottom half of the bagel. Now add thin lines of ketchup in the creases of the dogs (substitute the mustard if you prefer) and then on top of the thin lines add lines of sweet pickles. I use the tiny sweet midgets. Then put the top part of the bagel on. The warmed cheese on top of the warmed dogs ends up fusing everything together. Now munch down. This makes an awesome sandwich. Trust me. It’s really good.

I’ve done some variations on this, like adding a layer of pepperoni or using a different meat or cheese and maybe a different sauce, like barbecue or adding veggies (not a YB staple mind you). They all work well, but this is the best way. Fairly simple and yummy.

Yeah, I know what you all are thinking, “Gee, I didn’t know Yankeebob was such an amazing chef!” Well, I’m full of surprises, let me tell ya! Of course most of what I like are recipes that I invented while living a bachelor’s life for a long time, so those of you (Meritt, Jody and especially Chef Nina) who are actually sitting there wondering wtf is up with this kind of cooking, there’s your answer. Guys living alone can come up with some cool stuff.

Everybody enjoy!

A New Quiz, Invented By YB For Your Learning Pleasure

I invented this one all by myself (with a little help via internet). It is the most profound quiz appearing in the blog world to date.


Why isn't phonetic spelled the way it sounds? - This just proves that all language education is a sham.

Have you ever imagined a world with no hypothetical situations? - What if the world was all hypothetical?

If a cow laughed, would milk come out her nose? - How could it not? Plus, I’ll bet the brown ones spew chocolate milk!

If nothing ever sticks to TEFLON, how do they make TEFLON stick to the pan? - This is something I’ve always wondered. How do they do what they do?

If you're in a vehicle going the speed of light, what happens when you turn on the headlights? - It either gets dark or you have to pass, like on the highway. Now I wonder how you signal to pass?

Why is it that when you transport something by car, it's called a shipment, but when you transport something by ship, it's called cargo? - My experience is when you transport by ship, it should be called slow-go.

Why is it that when you're driving and looking for an address, you turn down the volume on the radio? - I do this. I think the radio interferes with my brain waves reaching out to the desired location telepathically.

If you try to fail and succeed, what have you done? - Reversed the entire karma of the universe!

Why is the time when the traffic is slowest called rush-hour? - For me, because I’m in a rush to kick the crap out of all the lousy drivers getting in my way.

If Barbie is so popular, why do you need to buy her friends? - Because the truth is she’s a stuck-up, backstabbing beotch. Don’t believe the PR.

When cheese gets its picture taken what does it say? - Limburger.

Why are a wise-man and a wise-guy opposites? - Because you can always believe a wise-guy. Most wise men are wise asses. (Uhm, did I say that right?)

If the #2 pencil the most popular, why is it still #2? - Because no one likes a front runner. Let’s hear it for the underdog #2 pencil!

Can fat people go skinny-dipping? - I only hope they don’t when I am there.

Why do they announce power shortages on TV? - Because the announcers have the IQ of an icecube. (Usually.)

Why do you press harder on the remote-control when you know the battery is dead? - I don’t. I wring out all the remaining juice from the batteries like I wring a wash cloth. It sort of makes my remote look oddly shaped, but I get full usage out of those batteries.

If it’s zero degrees tonight, and tomorrow it’s meant to be twice as cold, how cold will it be? - Let’s see, 0 x 0 = Damn cold!

Who’s cruel idea was it to put an 'S' in 'lisp'? - I don’t know, but I think it’s pretty funny. I’m sorry it wasn’t me that thought of this one. (For all you know, it wasn’t anyway.)

Tuesday, March 01, 2005

Sometimes You Just Gotta Say WTF

Well, I did something last night that may or may not make sense to some, but for my sanity, it had to be done. As most of you know, I've been struggling mightily with the new car that I bought in September. For those who may be new, a short update:

I got the car in September, it had a minor problem (a small storage drawer that wouldn't stay closed) and I took it in. The dealership kept telling me it was a 'simple repair'. They said that every time I had to come back for the same thing. After 8 visits, which included 3 1/2 days off work, 2 Saturday mornings, 11 days of them keeping the car, damage done to the car by the technicians and insults by their loaner car guy, I finally thought the thing was OK. Wrong. The damn drawer that wouldn't stay closed now wasn't opening. I couldn't have pried it open with a crowbar. On top of that, more rattling noises were coming from the dash they had to replace after trashing it. They guaranteed no cheesy rattles would occur. Uh huh.

So, instead of going through another series of pseudo-repairs and headaches with the dorks at the dealership, I got rid of the thing. Yep, that's a bit nuts, but I'd had enough. I traded it in on an SUV and kissed the whole thing goodbye. Lost a bunch of money doing it, but by now, I couldn't even stand looking at the thing. I can't wait to let Mr. Big Cheese at the dealership know that I did it. He was so sure they would be able to keep me as a customer. (I've bought 4 cars from them in the past.) Ha! He must be blind. It's pretty simple, no service, no customers.

So now I'm starting over with a new vehicle, a notably higher payment and, barring another unforseen bad break, a more positive outlook. Sometimes you just have to say WTF and cut your losses. Last night was one of those times for me.