What It's About

Welcome to my blog! I ruminate on random thoughts rattling around in my brain. Subjects range from reality TV to current events and everything in between. Whether you agree with me or not, I welcome your comments. God gave you the ability to think for yourself, and this country was founded based on the right to have your own opinion. Who am I to question that? Hope you enjoy! And, if you like to shop on the internet, or have always wanted to try, please feel free to click on one of the banners on the left. Do admit I get a small commission for anything you buy through the links. Appreciate it if you do decide to buy something!

Friday, February 26, 2010

Just Some Stuff

Well, been some interesting things in the news over the last week or so.  Would you be shocked to find out had an opinion or two on them?  Figured as much.  So, if you’re willing, here we go:

  • Have had a chance to mull over Tigger’s statement.  Think there was something in it for everyone.  If you are wanting to forgive him, he said all the right things.  If you ain’t ready, yet, there’s been lots of debate about if this was the real Tigger or just another incarnation of an image he wants us to believe.  Not really sure myself and not real sure I care.  Did think it’s interesting Elin wasn’t up there with him.  Not sure what to read into that.  All I really know is am tired of hearing people talk about it.  Know what I mean?;
  • Have seen some hubbub about Scott Brown voting with the Dems on the job bill.  You’d think he was the only Republican to do it, but the reality is 4 others also voted with the Dems.  According to one article I read, a lot of folks on the right actually supported the bill.  They just didn’t like the way Harry Reid was somehow forcing it on them.  Since they knew it would pass anyway, they could vote no in protest.  As for Mr. Brown, I’m glad (at least on this vote) to see he is his own person.  Somebody has to break ranks.  That’s the only way we’ll be rid of some of the gridlock in Washington;
  • Watched a little of the healthcare summit.  What a joke.  Read where the Dems spoke for about twice as long as the Pubs, although Obama claimed his time shouldn’t count since he’s the prez.  First of all, seems like the Pubs were being told they were going too long more than the Dems during the short time I watched.  Second of all, why the heck would anyone be timing either side in the first place?!  Seems like someone who was just looking for an axe to grind going into it.  Doubt this show accomplished very much for either side.   Sad to say, know it didn’t hold my interest very long.  Just seemed like a bunch of politicians wanting a little press time.  The Dems will probably use it as an excuse to proceed without the Pubs now, too;
  • Eli Manning has agreed to give up $500,000 owed to him by a hospital for PR work.  Seems the hospital is already deeply in debt so he’s agreed to forgo the rest of the money owed him.  He’s even going to continue working for them.  Some folks are griping that he should give the $500 G’s he’d already received from them.  Just goes to show you can’t make everybody happy.  From what I can tell, the hospital was OK with it, so why should anyone else get upset by it?  Anyway, it’s a class move by him, especially since he has said he will keep working for them;
  • Well, there’s already been a lawsuit filed in relation to the dude flying his plane into the IRS building.  Now, I’m not necessarily saying a lawsuit isn’t in order.  But, filing one within a week of the incident seems a little premature to me.  Guess that’s the American way now.  When something happens to you, don’t try to work things out on your own, feed the lawyers so they can drag things out forever and then end up getting more than you do.  Like lawsuits, there’s a time and place for lawyers, but seems a little early to get them involved in this case;
  • Read a story last year where the mayor of Moscow said he was going to prevent snow from falling there this winter.  Supposedly had some scientific way to make it go around Moscow.  Saw another story this week where it’s snowed there this year just like it always does.  When are we going to learn that we are not God, nor do we play Him on TV?;
  • ESPN has suspended Tony Kornhiser from his TV show for two weeks because of remarks he made on his radio show about a female co-worker.  He apparently didn’t like the outfit she was wearing one day and made some comments about it.  He later called her to apologize and then apologized on the air the next day.  Have heard TK make many comments like these before without any repercussions from his employer.  What makes these different is they have a no-tolerance rule for public criticism of fellow ESPN employees, even in non-ESPN outlets like his radio show.  So, it’s not what he said so much as who he said them about.  Guess it’s OK to bash folks as long as they don’t work for ESPN with you.  Somehow, that just don’t seem right to me and just another reason I rarely watch that channel, listen to their radio shows, or surf their site anymore;
  • Very sad about the trainer at Sea World.  We went to the dinner with the whales on our trip last year.  Had the same whale during our dinner.  The trainers will constantly remind you that these are wild animals and can be unpredictable.  Sad way to be reminded of this.  Bout the only positive in this whole situation is the trainer went out doing what she loved, which ain’t much in the grand scheme of things.  Thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends;
  • See where the Russian male figure skater has his knickers in a wad cuz he came in second during the Olympics.  Been complaining to anyone who will listen that the judges cheated him out of the gold.  That’s why I don’t like to watch those “sports” where the winner is chosen by subjective judging.  Never really know if things are on the up-n-up or not.  That being said, he’s just being a sore loser.  Get over it already;
  • PARTY ON!!!  Hockey has a saying “GAME ON!” which means it’s time to play.  Apparently the Canadian women’s team likes the first one, too.  After they won the gold, they returned to the ice with beer and cigars to celebrate.  Some folks didn’t like it and complained.  Now the IOC is going to conduct an investigation although not really sure what they are going to investigate.  Maybe where they kept the brewskies and stogies during the game?  Who knows?  Maybe they should spend their resources investigating the men’s skating judges instead of worrying about some folks having a little fun. Geez, Louise.

Well, that’s the news for this week.  Thank you for your time.

This is Scot, and I am outta here!

See you next week.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

100 Things About Me - Part Two (aka 51-100)

OK.  Now that you've had time to absorb the first half, gonna pick up where I left off.  If you liked the first 50, hope you enjoy these, too.  If you didn't, well, maybe you'll like these better.  Automatic numbering system won't let me start at 51, so you'll just have to use your imagination.  Ready?  All right, here we go:
  1. Although I watch more baseball and football than anything else, if I had my druthers about attending a live game, would choose hockey 6 days a week and twice on Sunday. Much more exciting game, especially in person. Too much standing around in football and baseball at live games. Just wish it translated better onto TV. That being said...;
  2. Really enjoy going to baseball games, too. It's natural pace allows you to sit and enjoy the company around you. Have had some real in-depth conversations at baseball games;
  3. Prefer to watch football on TV.  There's lots of things you can only see with instant replay.  Can also go to the bathroom or get a snack without walking 100 yards only to wait in line for 10-15 minutes and miss part of the game; 
  4. Hope to get to a NASCAR race someday.   Just want to feel the rumble of the engines;
  5. My favorite classic TV shows include Frasier, M*A*S*H, St. Elsewhere, Northern Exposure and the king of all the classics, The Andy Griffith Show;
  6. My all-time favorite episode of any TV show is the one where Wayne Fiscus gets shot on St. Elsewhere. He travels from Purgatory to Heaven and to Hell several times each to learn things about himself and his beliefs. Really makes me think, too. Awesome show;
  7. Barney Fife buying a motorcycle is a close second.  The scene where he drives off leaving Andy sitting in the sidecar makes me laugh every time;
  8. Enjoy the winter Olympics much more than the summer ones. Think it's cuz can picture myself doing more of the winter sports. Would love to compete in the ski jump competition. Not really sure why since I'm not big on heights. But, it seems like the most fun;
  9. Think Thomas Jefferson, a wise and great American, and Benjamin Franklin are two of the smartest people this country will ever produce. People will be talking about them long after most of today's so-called geniuses;
  10. One of my guilty pleasures includes pro wrestling. More of an old-school fan from back in the days of Ric Flair and the Road Warriors in their prime. Follow it today through a newsletter, but don't go out of my way to watch it, anymore. Too many meatheads and not enough personalities and actual wrestling talent today. Yes, I know it's scripted, but so was that movie you watched the other day. Didn't stop you from enjoying it, did it?;
  11. Between January 1 and Dec 31, 2009, lost around 40 pounds,  Used C25K and Lose It! apps on my iPhone.  The Lose It! app was most eye opening cuz didn't realize how many calories had been consuming in a day and had not been burning as many as I thought.  Also lost about 4 inches off my waist;
  12. Tend to be on the quiet side. You know, "It's better to keep your mouth shut and appear stupid than open it and remove all doubt." Probably live that a little too much although some of you probably think just the opposite;
  13. Am I the only person who doesn't know what a "flash mob" is?;
  14. Wonder why folks can't just accept the probability that Plato made up Atlantis?;
  15. Think it would be neat to take a trip to either the Arctic or Antarctica;
  16. Happy that my kids enjoy reading. Hope they keep it up;
  17. Probably one of the few people who enjoyed watching golf more before Tigger came along. Don't get me wrong, he's one of the best golfers of all time. However, like to see more of the field when he's playing. Also, if he's not in contention, don't need to see every one of his shots that day;
  18. Still think Jack in his prime would have beat Tigger on a regular basis. Just think Jack had the mental toughness not to be intimidated by him.  Hard to make a fair comparison, though, cuz courses and equipment are so much better these days;
  19. Am looking forward to the day when I can tell my potential in-laws stories about things my kids did when they were younger;
  20. Love all kinds of music.  And, no, that is not just country and western.  About the only kind I don't like is ska.  At least that's what I think it's called.  It's ultra-heavy metal on steroids.  Anyway, many people would probably be surprised at the variety on my iPod;
  21. Never know when I might throw out a quote from a movie and/or TV show;
  22. When people ask about injuries from running, my answer is always along the lines of I don't run fast enough to get 'em;
  23. "One of the saddest days of my life was the day I realized I could beat my father at most things." Homer Simpson. Very true.  Think Homer Simpson is a tad bit smarter than most people give him credit for;
  24. Curling is one the few things enjoy watching even though got no idea what is going on;
  25. Have never really figured out why Ashton Kutcher is so popular;
  26. The Kardashians, either, for that matter;
  27. Really miss my kids watching the Wiggles.  Think they were purty good before Greg left.  Hadn't seen the new guy to know if they still are or not;
  28. Know healthcare reform is needed.  However, until Congress presents a bill that also applies to them, not really interested in anything else they may put out there;
  29. One of the best feelings in the world is taking my shoes off;
  30. Another one is praying with someone who just accepted Christ as their savior;
  31. Seems to me like the easiest way to share Christ with folks is to talk about what He has done for my life.  Can't figure out why that's seemed so hard to do more times than I care to admit;
  32. Am immensely proud of our veterans and am forevermore indebted to each and every one of them.  If you are a vet, thanks to you and your families for the sacrifices you have made to ensure my freedoms.  Just can't say that enough.  And, if you are the family member of someone who made the ultimate sacrifice, a special prayer is lifted for you because a thank you is just not enough;
  33. Would love to spend a couple weeks on either the Northwestern or Time Bandit crab fishing.  Probably couldn't make it much longer than that and not even sure could make it that long;
  34. Can't really think of a job would rather do permanently than the one I got now, so it must be my dream job;
  35. Guess if I had to choose something else, would probably pick political/social commentator/columnist.  With some of the hacks out there, hard to believe it takes four years to get a degree in journalism.  Guess that could be said about a lot of professions, though;
  36. Believe it's difficult to convince a child something is right if all you can say is "just because" or "they say" when they ask why;
  37. My favorite color is dark green (that's hunter for all you aficionados) followed closely by dark purple (eggplant) and many styles of camouflage; 
  38. One of my favorite Far Sides is a kid, trying to walk into a school for the gifted, pushing on a door with a big sign which says "Pull."  Think about that every time it happens to me; 
  39. When my boss once told me I needed to start dressing "more like a leader," went out and bought a camouflage wallet just so I could do what he advised but still counteract that in my mind.  Such a rebel...;
  40. Have adjusted to drinking Coke Zero, unsweet tea, and various other diet drinks much better than expected; 
  41. Hope to go whale-watching someday. Want to go elk hunting, too;
  42. The first time felt middle-aged was the day had to buy reading glasses.  Only need them when wearing my contacts, but still...;
  43. Never forget a favor...Well, try not to, anyway;
  44. Got my first new personal laptop this week.  Purty neat.  Usually just get a hand-me-down whenever someone else gets a new one;
  45. Believe there's no such thing as useless knowledge.  Never know when something you've learned will come in handy;
  46. Have discovered math word problems aren't as hard as I thought when I was in school.  In fact, have figured out just about everything involving math in real life is a word problem.  Wish I'd known that then.  Might have been easier for me; 
  47. Have also realized lots of things learned in school apply to every day life more than I thought they would at the time;
  48. Was never really patient until I started dating.  Then really had no choice;
  49. Favorite outfit is jeans, t-shirt, and hiking boots;
  50. Now that I'm a parent, realize even more just how hard it had to be for God to sacrifice His son for us.  Truly one of the greatest gifts we could ever receive.
Well, that's it.  Thanks for hanging in there with me.  Takes a lot of thinking to come up with 100 things about yourself.  Didn't think I'd struggle with it like I did.  Might should have used Gomer's bucket to help me out.  He said you can do lots of thinking under there.

Y'all keep 'em straight out there!

Sunday, February 21, 2010

A Few Things to Tickle Your Fancy


Here's a few things hope will bring a smile to your face.  Might even give you an excuse or two...




Friday, February 19, 2010

Really?

Been some things in the news which make me think "really?" when I either see the headline or read the article. Just in case you have missed them, thought I'd share some with you. Might even add a snide remark or two. So, if you're ready...

  • Someone has finally figured out what killed King Tut...they think.  The conclusion was he died of malaria.  Sure glad that issue has been solved.  Can't tell you how many nights of sleep I've lost over that.  Anyway, not sure why it's been so important to figure out.  Ain't gonna change our world today as far as I can figure.  But, if someone out there is happy this may have finally been resolved, more power to 'em;
  • President Obama took credit for preventing a depression with the stimulus package passed last year.  That's the good thing about "preventing" something like that.  No one can really confirm or deny that you are right.  Just like W can say he prevented the next Hitler when he invaded Iraq.  Short of going to the parallel universe where these things happened because of something we didn't do, no one can really know for sure things were stopped or not.  Just so I can feel in the spirit, will now take credit for preventing the sun from not rising and not setting every day because I told them not to stop; 
  • Saw a headline that said "Bill Maher Calls Dick Cheney A Liar."  Who cares? If you've ever seen Maher's show on HBO, this should not come as a shock to you.  He's as far to the left as Rush Limbaugh is to the right.  Plus, what difference does it make?  Maher is an actor, not a politician or leader of any sort, and Cheney is no longer in office. Seems like some writer needs more to do with their time.  Now, if he'd said Cheney was right all along, THEN you might have a story;
  • There are billboards popping up in Minnesota and Wisconsin asking if we're missing W, yet.  No one seems to want to take credit for them.  Even if we were, what difference would it make?  Bush has served his two terms allowed by our Constitution and can't come back even if he wanted to and could somehow get re-elected.  Seems like the money could have been spent advertising someone who can actually run for office.  Guess some folks really do have more money than sense;
  • That's something else about the dude who flew his plane into the IRS building in Austin, TX.  You reckon he had all his faculties about him?  Anyway, when you consider close to 200 people work in that building, it's lucky there were only 2 people killed (one of which is apparently him) and 13 people injured.  Only two of them went to the hospital.  Who knows what he was trying to accomplish?  Even set his house on fire before he did it.  Guess he wanted them to get an empty lot when they foreclosed.  More and more people want to go out in a blaze of glory (pardon the pun) nowadays.  Media feeds right into 'em, too, with their non-stop coverage of even the most minor things.  Not that this was minor.  Have to admit my first thought was another terrorist attack, too.  Sad sign of the times, I suppose;
  • So Tigger has made his statement about what happened.  Whoop-de-doo.  Like have said before, this should be between him and The Mrs.  Have read comments saying he's being selfish for having the "press conference" on a Friday, a day when the tour is playing.  Other comments include he's taking away from the Olympics.  Hard to believe all the major networks covered this sham live, not to mention all the cable stations.  If that's what the public wants, then shame on us.  S'posedly the reason he had the conference when he did was cuz he has to head back to rehab after a week-long break.  Wonder why he couldn't have waited until he was done to make his statement/apology?  Could be just another step in the rehab process.  Might have been more interested if the lapdog pressmen that attended could have asked questions.  Probably not since they would have most likely asked wiffle-ball questions.  Sure the press will do the bathroom dance again when he finally plays in a tournament, then again when he wins.  Can hardly wait...; 
  • A friend of mine posted this on Facebook the other day:  People will always be more violently opposed to the wearing of fur than leather for the simple reason that it's far safer to harass rich women than biker gangs.  Think about it;
That's all I got for now.  Interested to hear what you might have to say.  Might give me a different angle to think about.  Not such a bad thing sometimes.  Please feel free to leave a comment below or shoot me an e-mail at ScotPS23@yahoo.com

Y'all keep 'em straight out there.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Back to Randomness

Things just keep getting curiouser and curiouser every day.  It's snowing more in Alabama than it is in Vancouver.  The Obama administration is sounding more like the W administration than they would probably care to admit.  All sorts of crazy things.  With that in mind, got some thoughts to get out of my head.  Please feel free to continue if you're curious.

OK.  You've been warned:
  • Well, happy to report that January thunder did in fact bring February snow to our neck of the woods.  Had about 3 inches of snow on Friday; a trace of snow Sunday night; then about an inch Monday evening.  Most snow folks around here can remember for at least 15 years.  You can insert your own global warming joke here;
  • Read an article where the current administration says people who criticize it are actually playing into the hands of Al Qaeda.  Hmmm.  Where have we heard that before?  Guess the more things change, the more they stay the same;
  • Robert Gibbs made fun of Sarah Palin writing notes on her hand the other day.  Now, not saying she doesn't deserve some ribbing for what she did.  But, would think that president's spokesman would be above that.  Surely they don't see her as a threat to their administration, do they?  Hope not.  Would think they'd be more worried about creating jobs, fighting terrorists, and multitude of other things than someone who has to write notes on their hand;
  • Very sad to see Captain Phil Harris died last week.  Fans of the show will remember he had a blood clot break loose from his lung two years ago.  He was lucky to have survived that.  Last reports were that he was recovering well from his stroke.  Then we get the news about his death.  Just shows how fragile life really is, and that we should be prepared to go at any time;
  • Have been amazed at not only my reaction but the reaction of the public at large to Capt Phil's passing on.  There's been a huge outpouring of support and a real sense of loss from fans of Deadliest Catch, which isn't a surprise.  What's amazing is how much we feel like we actually know Phil, Josh and Jake (and all the others) just from watching them an hour a week on a TV show.  Would venture to say we know a lot less about them than we actually know.  Tells me what a great job the producers of the show really do, and that they've made it more about the personalities than the fishing;
  • Supposedly there was $82.7 million legally bet on the Super Bowl this year, and Vegas cleared $6.86 million.  The article said both numbers were actually down this year cuz people didn't play the side bets such as who wins the toss, scores the first touchdown, etc., as much as in years past.  Side effects of the economy, I reckon.  Wonder if they will be asking for a stimulus package?; 
  • Completed my taxes a couple of weeks ago.  Have already received my federal refund.  All the state will tell me is they have approved my refund, they will send it to me as "funds will allow," and they appreciate my patience.  Wonder if I could get away with that with them?  Somehow doubt they would be as patient as they want me to be;
  • According to my useless trivia up top, male Indian elephants are not interested in the opposite sex until they are 21 years old.  Probably lots of human parents who wish their children were the same way.  You're reading the thoughts of one of 'em;
  • Speaking of things up top, the quote the other day was, "History will be kind to me for I intend to write it," credited to Sir Winston Churchill.  Shows what confidence he had as a leader.  Also a reminder that the victors are the ones who get to write history; 
  • Saw where Louis Gossett, Jr. has prostate cancer.  Not sure what stage it is in, but am lifting prayers up for him and his family.  Shows how important it is that men get checked for it.  Like many cancers, it can be beat if you catch it soon enough;
  • Wonder if Mardi Gras in New Orleans was a little wilder this year?  (Is that even possible?)  Imagine they're still riding the high of winning the Super Bowl so it probably was.
Well, that's all for now.  Hope you enjoyed it, or, at the very least, might have something different to think about now.

Y'all have a great week!

Monday, February 15, 2010

100 Things About Me - Part One (aka: 1 - 50)

Have seen this thing called 100 Things About Myself going around the blogger world.  Thought I'd take a crack at it even though it's probably a little self-indulgent.  Will start out with 50 so you won't get too tired of reading.  Know quite a few people reading this already know me, or, at least think they do.  But, might throw something out there you didn't know about me.  Heck, might even learn something myself.  Will try not to mention anything you'd rather not have known.  If I do, hope you'll continue to be my friend, anyway.  So, if you're interested, here we go:
  1. Was born June 15, 1968, in Mobile, AL, also the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the US.  (Sorry NOLA friends, you only resurrected it first after the Civil War);
  2. Married since 1996 to my wonderful wife, Stacey
  3. Have boy/girl twins who were born in 2001.  You'd be surprised how many times I've been asked if they are identical;
  4. Although was born in the South, have lived here a majority of my life, and am dang proud to be a Southerner, will tell folks I grew up in Towanda, IL, cuz that's where we were during my formative years; 
  5. Hobbies include golf, deer hunting, and fishing, or at least they used to be.  Now they are attending my son's sports games and my daughter's cheerleading events, playing with them when I am at home, exercising, and toodling around on the computer.  Really enjoy my new hobbies, but wish I had time to do the originals every now and then; 
  6. Both of my parents are still alive as are both of my grandparents on my momma's side.  Am truly blessed all around to still have all of them;
  7. Am a Christian; 
  8. Member of First Baptist Church of Trussville; 
  9. Graduated from W.A. Berry High School (it's now Hoover High for all you Two-A-Days fans);
  10. Have a history degree from the University of Alabama.  Roll Tide;
  11. Read the Bible just about every night.  Wife bought me an archeological Bible for Christmas this year.  Have learned a lot from it so far; 
  12. Love a good debate (NOTE - debate, not argument) every now and then.  The subject don't really matter as long as I learn something from it;
  13. Have a tendency to be a smartalec.  Because of the dry nature of my wit, people can't always tell whether I am joking or being serious.  Sometimes I really enjoy that ambiguity;
  14. Love Clint Eastwood movies, especially the westerns; 
  15. Love the entire Lonesome Dove series of novels/mini-series; 
  16. Favorite animals: Tigers (an odd thing for an Alabama graduate) and ducks
  17. Am in TV heaven right now since Biggest Loser, Amazing Race, Pawn Stars, Ax Men, Madhouse, and the granddaddy of them all, Survivor, are now on the air.  Will reach the next level of TV heaven when Deadliest Catch is back on the air with them; 
  18. Really gonna miss Captain Phil Harris of the F/V Cornelia Marie.  Have some more thoughts to share on that in my next random subjects blog;
  19. Drive a 2007 Toyota Tundra; 
  20. Favorite vehicle I ever owned was a 1994 4-wheel drive Chevy S-10;
  21. Duck Hill, MS, is one of my favorite places on earth.  Used to deer hunt there when I was a kid; 
  22. Worked on my grandfather's farm in Sarah, MS, for four summers growing up.  Wouldn't trade those experiences for anything in the world; 
  23. Favorite food:  Grandmama's apple pie.  That's all I'm gonna say about that; 
  24. Second favorite food:  Sushi from Yamato's in Pensacola, FL.  Used to be like Terry Bradshaw when it came to sushi.  (You know, "they call that bait where I come from")  A friend of mine had me try it when I was in Miami once.  Been hooked ever since.  Yamato's has the best I've ever eaten;
  25. Have met family all the way up to my great, great grandmother.  Think I was 5 or 6 when she died at the tender age of 98.  Her daughter (my great grandmother) was 93 when she passed.  Her daughter was mentioned in # 6.  Hope my longetevity gene comes from that side of the family; 
  26. Can't always tell it, especially when you read this blog, but I minored in English.  Bet my ninth grade English teacher, Mrs. Hughes, wouldn't be happy to read this blog.  She got mad whenever we would say 'tin' instead of 'ten' for the number 10.  She was still one of my all-time favorite teachers, though;  
  27. Not a very formal person.  Probably already figured that out, though;
  28. Although I know the South had no chance of winning and we were dang fools for actually starting it, will still refer to the Civil War as the War of Northern Aggression when I'm in a playful mood;
  29. Abraham Lincoln is my second favorite president.  Few people could have saved the US like he did.  Went to his memorial while in DC.  Took my hat off when I saw his statue and didn't realize it until I put it back on.  Only time can remember ever doing anything like that;
  30. Would rather you think I'm not the brightest bulb in the bunch than think I'm a genius.  Realize that might not be much of a stretch for most of you;  
  31. Have lived in Mobile, AL, Bloomington, IL, Towanda, IL, Knoxville, TN, Hoover, AL, Mobile, AL and Trussville, AL; 
  32. Been known to sing in public, on purpose.  Ain't been booed off the stage, yet, but don't know why; 
  33. Although I claim to be independent, have a tendency to vote Republican.  Did vote for Ross Perot back in 1992, though; 
  34. Will usually write in a candidate whenever I'm not real happy with whoever's on the ballot.  Voted for my college bud Scott C for state supreme court once.  Now that he's moved to California, usually vote for my friend David V in the local/state elections.  Will still vote Scott for president, though, although we are on opposite ends of the political spectrum;
  35. George Washington is my favorite president.  Hard to top the original cuz he could have turned it into a kingship if he were a lessor person.  Glad he didn't;
  36. Believe the ancients were actually a lot smarter than we are today.  We could never build the things they did today without a computer, calculator, or some other sort of technology not available back then.  Ronald Reagan once said, "We might not have had those things.  But it took our generation to make them" in response to some kid asking him how RR's generation could understand the younger generation when they didn't have many of today's amenities.  Think that applies to many prior generations; 
  37. Sometimes I wonder if we really are better off than our ancestors; 
  38. Love Milk Duds and Milky Ways;
  39. Would sit down and eat a gallon Cold Stone Creamery's Cookie Doughn't You Want Some if my wife would let me; 
  40. Have enjoyed jogging a lot more than I thought I would, but don't think I want to run much further than a 5K; 
  41. People seem to follow me but ain't figured out why, yet.  Maybe they are just curious to see where the monkey is going;
  42. If it weren't for my wife, might not have a personal laptop or cell phone, yet; 
  43. Always glad when I realize new friends are now old friends but wonder when the exact moment is that the transition is made; 
  44. Learned a lot more about corporate life while working on the farm than you would think.  Will have to write a specific blog about that someday; 
  45. Often wonder when all this gray hair showed up.  Gonna blame it on the time I had hi-lights put in my hair.  Don't ask; 
  46. Got nine tattoos:  Calvin and Hobbes, a mallard, Taz, Yosemite Sam, a Christian fish, a black panther, a smallmouth bass, the Japanese symbol for twins, and the Japanese symbol for deer; 
  47. Few things warm my heart more than listening to my children sing and/or hum; 
  48. College was four of the best years of my life but don't think I would want to relive them; 
  49. Can't think of many things in my life I would change if I could have a do-over; 
  50. Hope to drive the Alaska Highway someday.
Well, that's all for now.  Not as easy as you would think.  Will finish in the next week or two.  Will have a random thoughts post before the week is out.

I am outta here.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Rest In Peace, Captain Phil

Rest in Peace, Captain Phil.


God must have needed another crab boat captain.
The world will miss you.
Thoughts and prayers for his family and friends.

Monday, February 8, 2010

A Whole Lot of Another

Been lots of interesting things in the news here lately.  Everybody must be trying to get things in before the Super Bowl since things always seem slow down afterwards. So, if I can thaw my fingers out, will try to give you a little food for thought if nothing else.  Here we go:
  • Man!  What a Super Bowl!  Didn't care a whole lot who won.  Only hoped for a good game, and it was delivered.  Was glad to see the Saints pull it off.  They and their fans certainly deserve it after 43 years of heartache.  They played a great game and Sean Payton showed he wasn't just glad to be there.  Calling for an on-sides kick to start the 2nd half took some real courage.  WHO DAT!!!;
  • Thought this year's ads were just kind of OK.  Liked the Doritos ad where the kid told the man not to touch his mama or his Doritos.  Didn't realize the Tebow ad was on until he tackled his mother and had to rewind it to pay attention to it.  Like many other things in life, it was much ado about nothing.  Certainly wasn't as controversial as you would have thought.  Think some groups decided to "protest" it beforehand just to get their name in the papers.  Can't always believe the hype, I reckon.  Imagine that.  Did read where one group said tackling his mother encourages violence against women.  Guess they had to complain about something since the ad didn't live up to other expectations.  Would think most people are smart enough to see the humor in it and don't think the ad is saying it's OK to tackle women, especially your mother;
  • Did anyone know we are apparently fighting in Pakistan now?  Or, at least we have sent "advisers" there. (Ain't that how we got started in Vietnam?)  Anywho, three were killed in a suicide bombing the other day.  Looks like the reigning Nobel Peace prize winner may be expanding the war on terror, or, whatever they are calling it these days.  (Apparently that phrase is a no-no with the White House and its staff.)  Anyway, not saying there's anything necessarily wrong with it.  Just wondered if you knew about it;
  • Read where Michelle Obama is catching some flak about using her daughters as examples in her fight against childhood obesity.  Said might be setting them up for eating disorders and/or poor self-esteem later in life.  Think as long as she keeps it in proper perspective for them, they will be OK.  If the doctor said they need to lose a little weight, she should be praised for trying to do something about it (as long as she didn't do anything out of the ordinary) instead of ignoring the problem.  Shouldn't be anything wrong with using a personal example, either.  Just hope they don't turn it around later and say they don't want their children to be in the spotlight.  Can't expect to have it both ways if you are going to put them out there yourself.  That don't mean someone should go out of their way to put them out there in a bad way, though;
  • Sarah Palin spoke at the Tea Party convention over the weekend.  Had notes written on her hand like she was cheating on a civics test in high school.  Not sure about all the particulars as to why she wrote on her hand and not on note cards.  Maybe she thought of something she wanted to be be sure to mention as she was walking to the stage.  Don't know.  But, it don't look real good.  Not very professional at best.  Mostly unprepared at worst.  Just something someone already looked down upon by the media should consider; 
  • Read some speculation the other day that the Feds are being tough on Toyota since they are competition for Government Motors (that's what some folks are calling General Motors nowadays).  Since we the people own most of GM now, it will help our bottom line to make the competition look bad anytime they can.  Not saying I necessarily buy it, but some interesting food for thought;
  • Hard to believe NASCAR has started back up again.  Got the Daytona 500 this weekend.  Looks like Danica Patrick will run in the Nationwide (one step below the Sprint Cup in case you don't know) race on Saturday.  Could be interesting.  Hope she does well.  The sport could use a little boost.  Lost interest myself last year when they flat out caught Jimmy Johnson and Mark Martin cheating in a Chase race and did nothing about it. Both cars were about an inch lower than NASCAR allows.  Don't sound like much, but it was a race they totally dominated over the rest of the field so it must have been something.  If they allow the drivers to start racing again instead of just driving around in circles, will probably watch again this year.  Will have to see;
  • Read an interesting snippet on Dale Earnhardt, Jr, this week.  Someone asked him if he had to win to be a central figure in the sport.  His reply: "Apparently not."  Purty astute if you ask me.  Hasn't won a race in a couple of years, and he's still the most popular driver, probably for no other reason than who his daddy was and how he died.  Think all he wants to do is race and be himself.  Too many other folks want him to be his daddy reincarnated, and that ain't fair to him.  Ain't but one Ironhead and there won't ever be another.  If you ask me, all of The Intimidator's fans should have gone to Tony "Smoke" Stewart.  He's the closest thing out there to Number 3.  Anyway, hope Jr has a good year this year.  While Smoke is my favorite driver, will be rooting for anyone but Jimmy this year;
  • Certainly been some odd weather around the country this year.  Heard last year that if there's thunder in January, there will be snow in February.  Well, we had thunder around here in January.  Will see if it happens this year.  Had thunder last year and snow on March 1, which was purty close.  Had some snow flurries Saturday and Sunday.  Might have to count that.  One odd thing is, with all the snow we're having in the States, read they are having to haul snow in for the Olympic snowboarding events next week in Canada.  Strange days indeed. 
Well, that's all I got fer now.  Thanks for hanging in this long.  Y'all have a good'n!

Later.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

This, That and The Other

Usually only update once a week.  But, have run across some more things I feel the need to comment on so gonna think out loud again this week.  Hope you enjoy:
  • Don't know about where you live, but there was a bunch of riggamoroll around here on National Signing Day Wednesday.  In case you don't know, that's the first day high school football recruits can officially accept their scholarship offers.  The way folks have been carrying on, you'd think we were having a presidential election.  Take that back, think they were more interested in what was going on than they would be in an election.  You got high schools having assemblies and press conferences (including national media) for these kids to announce their decisions.  All this for 17-18 year old kids who ain't proved nothing except they were purty good high school players.  It's no wonder some athletes feel such an sense of entitlement sometimes.  And, we got nobody but ourselves to blame for it, either; 
  • Heard where the Secretary of Transportation told Toyota owners to stop driving their vehicles this week if it was part of the recall then said later that's not what he really meant.  When I read the first comment, figured it was gonna create a panic and overload the dealerships.  Was not surprised to see him crawfish a little later in the day.  Now, he made the first statement while testifying to Congress why he had actually been proactive in this whole mess.  So, here's what probably really happened:  He was puffing his chest out to Congress about how tough he's really been on Toyota then let his mouth get away from him.  Classic case of speaking before you're really thinking.  Hope he learns a lesson from this; 
  • Speaking of opening mouth and inserting foot, see where President Obama has made the people of Nevada mad again by sort of bad-mouthing Vegas.  Twice in less than a year.  Didn't really think it was much of a slam against Vegas as much as it was gambling in general.  But, he mentioned it by name so now they're thinking fewer tourists will be coming out.  Can't help but think he wouldn't be saying the same thing if Vegas were in New York or California.  You know, the states with a whole bunch of electoral votes?  Just saying;  
  • Read where a Dennis Zeglin from New Jersey plead guilty to shooting his African Grey parrot during a NASCAR race last year just cuz the bird wouldn't shut up during a race.  Yup.  Shot him three times with a BB gun.  And, brace yourself, authorities think alcohol may have been involved.  Go figure. Anyway, think it was his wife who turned him in.  Now, this wouldn't surprise me as much if he lived somewhere's here in the South.  Just goes to show there's rednecks everywhere in this great land of ours;
  • Looks like the bad data bug is biting another "scientific" study.  Turns out the docs who wrote a paper on MMR vaccinations being a possible cause of autism purposely overlooked a lot of info that didn't agree with what they were trying to prove.  Caused a lot of worry and fear for who knows why.  Maybe they did it for fame or trying to get more research money.  Whatever the whyfore, it wasn't good enough.  Just another example of my theory that you have to know someone's motives for a poll, survey, research, etc., before you take their data at face value.  If they start out with the answer before they start asking the questions, the questions just might skew towards the result they want rather than being objective.  Just food for thought.  By the way, do hope they find the cause some day; 
  • Read an interview with Bill Waterson, the creator of Calvin and Hobbes, one of the greatest comic strips ever.  The article said it was his first interview since 1989, and it was via an e-mail Q and A.  Said he has no regrets stopping in 1995. (Man, has it really been that long?)  Just wanted to go out while he was still on top.  Although I wish he would have kept it up, can respect his decision to quit.  Can think of more than one example of someone who should have quit before they did.  That being said, Mr. Waterson, anytime you want to come back, please feel free to do so.  This is one fan who will never get tired of your work;
  • Yes, that is a tattoo of Calvin and Hobbes on my right upper arm as my profile picture.  It's from a Sunday cartoon where they were dancing to classical music (1812 Overture, I think).  The tattoo artist took a picture of it when he finished and it was actually published in a magazine.  Used to have a copy of it somewhere.  Besides being a tribute to the strip, the tattoo is to remind me you can find fun in anything if you try hard enough;
  • If you are a Deadliest Catch fan, you may be interested to know that Captain Phil Harris (F.V. Cornelia Marie) had a stroke the other day.  Fortunately, he was in port when it happened.  Last report was he's doing well.  He can squeeze peoples' hands and talk.  Even told the doctor, "Don't $@#^ up!" Get well soon, Capt Phil!  Will keep you in my prayers; 
  • The NFL tried to get people to stop selling "Who Dat" paraphernalia in relation to the Saints since they weren't getting their cut.  Claimed they had the rights to the saying since people were saying it bout the Saints.  Needless to say, there were a lot of folks hacked off in New Orleans.  Now, I've heard that expression has been around long before the NFL was even a glint in somebody's eye.  First time I can remember it being used with the Saints was when the song Who Dat came out in the mid-80's.   Glad to report someone somewhere with the NFL finally got some smarts about 'em and decided they didn't have the rights to that saying after all. Somebody must have checked the trademark office and saw somebody else had it first. Glad to see the little guys can win sometimes;
  • Saw where Herschel Walker is an MMA (mixed-martial arts) fighter now.  Said he won his first fight Saturday night.  Knowing what a natural athlete he is, imagine he's probably purty good at it.  At 47 he's probably not in Brock Lesnar's (one of the current world champions) league, but likely still purty dang good and impressive.  As odd as this sounds, he probably doesn't get enough credit for being as great an all-around athlete that he truly is.
Well, that's all I got for now.  Hope you are having a good week.  By the way, thanks to my bud Janet for filling me in on what "jump the shark" is in reference to.  Talking about when Fonzie water ski-jumped over a shark in one of the later episodes of Happy Days.  You know, the episodes that weren't as good as the first several seasons?  So now when a show has faded from glory and/or is searching desperately for storylines, they are referred to as having "jumped the shark."  Thanks for the info, J!

Later.

Monday, February 1, 2010

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That

Been an interesting week in the news.  Lots of stories in the news ranging from sports, politics and entertainment.  Got my own opinion to share on some of 'em. If it ain't in line with yours, might at least give you a different angle to think about, anyway.  So, if you're interested, here we go:
  • Before we get started, was watching TV with my son the other day.  Some commercial with a remake of The Beatles' "All You Need is Love" came on.  My son said it was a "real catchy" song.  Replied that's probably why it's been popular for pert near 40 years.  He was amazed it was that old.  That's the problem with getting older, you see very little that is new and actually impresses you.  Ah, to be young again and discovering things in the world;
  • Been reading about all the hoopla surrounding Tim Tebow's Super Bowl commercial.  To be honest, not real sure why some folks are upset about it.  After all, we do have a little something called "freedom of speech" in this here country.  If they have the money to run a counter to it, more power to 'em.  If CBS declines to run it, then you might have something to complain about.  Anyway, doubt the ad will change many opinions about the subject.  Most people are purty dug in on whichever side they are on so they won't be budging.  More surprised there hasn't been much hullaballoo about CBS turning down an ad for a gay dating website.  When I read the storyline of the ad (it ends with two guys making out on a couch), wasn't so surprised they turned it down.  Not sure many people would want to see that.  Lots o' folks are open-minded on that subject, but that don't mean they want to see it, not to mention the folks who ain't so open-minded about it;  
  • Saw where J.D. Salinger died last week.  Tried to read Catcher in the Rye when I was in college.  Had a difficult time getting into it and don't think I even finished.  Interesting thing to me is most of the stories I read about him always talk about what a recluse he was.  Harper Lee (To Kill a Mockingbird) has the same kind of stories written about her.  Guess the media folks have a hard time accepting not everyone is hungry for fame.  Must be an anomaly for them cuz they're used to dealing with narcissistic egomaniacs most of the time.  Not sure about Mr. Salinger, but have heard from people who know that Ms. Lee is just an ordinary person who wants to live her life like most other normal folks. Ain't a thing in the world wrong with that, either;
  • Heard where President Obama wants to do away with the "don't ask, don't tell" policy.  Got no problem with that.  Times have changed a lot since the military decided to ban gays and lesbians.  Now, have to admit have never served in the military myself so not sure what, if any, effect it will have on unit morale.  However, there were also huge outcries when women, blacks, and other groups were first allowed to join.  Now, most people don't think twice about it.  Reckon this might happen here, too.  Truth is there are already gay folks in the military so it shouldn't be that much of an adjustment.  Most straight folks I know who are leary of gays are worried they're gonna get hit on.  Have several friends I know who are gay and several others I suspect but have never asked and they ain't tellin', either.  None have ever hit on me and feel comfortable when they are around my children.  In other words, like many other fears, has more to do with what you don't know rather than having a legitimate reason to fear or hate.  Imagine it will all work out in the long run;
  • Looks like there's finally a issue both sides of the political aisle can work together on.  The president's office announced they are going to look into getting a playoff for Division One (or whatever it's called now) college football.  This all got started when Republican Orrin Hatch got his panties in a wad cuz Utah wasn't in the championship game last year, or at least given a piece of the championship since they were undefeated.  Glad to know we've solved all our minor issues such as the economy, unemployment, health care reform, two wars, terrorism, et al.  What's that?  You say we haven't solved those things, yet?!  Surely they have or they wouldn't distract themselves with petty issues like a football playoff?  Man o' man;
  • Kurt Warner has decided to retire from the NFL.  His story is the true American dream.  As Carl the Greenskeeper use to say, "A true Cinderella story.  Coming out of nowhere to win..."  To go from making $5.50/hour as a grocery clerk to winning the MVP and the Super Bowl the next year is truly amazing.  Will be a long time before his story is duplicated. Sure he will hit the speechifying circuit sharing his faith (very devout Christian) now. Good luck in retirement, Kurt;
  • Went out to eat the other night and ran into an old college friend I haven't seen in close to 20 years.  Weird thing is, since we've 'talked' on Facebook over the last year or so, we didn't feel the need to sit there and chat in a loud restaurant trying to catch up on the last 20 years in 5 minutes or less.  Another example of the power of the internet;
  • Realized the other day have only watched one episode of American Idol this year, and haven't really missed it that much, either.  Might get more interested in it once the finals start.  Don't know.  Not a big fan of Ellen DeGeneres so maybe not.  Possibly after Biggest Loser is over.  We'll see.  Think the biggest problem with the show is, outside of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, none of the winners have really struck it big.  Some who were culled from the herd have done OK such as Chris Daughtry and Clay Aiken, but that ain't quite the same.  Think once Simon leaves the show, it will have really jumped the shark. (What exactly does that really mean, anyway?  What does this expression have to do with something not being popular, anymore?);
  • Added a link to a blog called You're So Vain (link here and over to the left).  It's a lady in Northern Virginia who posts photos of a different vanity plate every day.  Pretty neat if you ask me.  Must be lots of them plates around there.  Not sure I could find a different one every day in my neck of the woods.  Found it just hitting the Next Blog button at the very top of the page.
All I got fer now.  Thanks for making it to the end with me.  If you know where "jump the shark" originated and/or why, please leave a comment or shoot me an e-mail.  Please feel free to leave any other comments, too.

Y'all have a great week!