Random thoughts

[Karen]

I sometimes hear at AA meetings: "You can't turn a pickle back into a cucumber." ;)

Karen, how wonderful you can eat pickles! How many foods can you eat now? I hope you're starting to lose count!

I'll have to check the list, I keep track, no losing count!

[cassiesmom]

:-| The presidential debate on the topic of foreign policy, game #7 of the NLCS and the Bears game are all on TV tonight! Grrrr!

[Alysser]

I'm about to hit rock bottom, but the only way out is up. I gotta remember that.

[Karen]

We love you no matter what, remember that! Then give Mikey a belly-rub - that'll give you a smile!

[Alysser]

Thanks Karen, I'm trying to improve the situation. Just seems hopeless sometimes. :(

[Karen]

Aww, whenever it seems hopeless, PM me, and I promise to lend you some!

[cassiesmom]

PTers, can someone please tell me what a "Trunk or Treat" is? A local church is having one tomorrow from 2 to 4. My neighbor mentioned it to me because they need more participants. I have no idea what it is (I assume it's something to do with Halloween though).


Thanks,
Elyse

[Karen]

"A Trunk or Treat is a Halloween event that is often church- or community-sponsored. People gather and park their cars in a large parking lot. They open their trunks, or the backs of their vehicles, and decorate them. Then they pass out candy from their trunks. The event provides a safe family environment for trick or treaters."

It is apparently a big thing! I had never heard of it either - probably popular in places that have bigger church parking lots than we do!

[pomtzu]

It amazes me how something simple can set someone off, and in the process, they reveal their true colors which aren't pretty at all. Actually, I find it to be quite sad.....:(

[Lady's Human]

Calculators are REQUIRED for 6th grade math..........

Tell me again why people need a register to make change for them?

[Alysser]

Calculators are REQUIRED for 6th grade math..........

Tell me again why people need a register to make change for them?

Graphing Calculators are required for my college math class, but we can't use them on the tests. :rolleyes:

[Cataholic]

Calculators are REQUIRED for 6th grade math..........

Tell me again why people need a register to make change for them?

It would make my life a lot simpler if I was a cashier, or someone regularly dealing with money, to have a calculator at the ready. For years, I was ashamed of my flat out inability to do even simple math calculations. I have been very, very, very poor with math- even basic "simple" math my entire life, and have a difficult time subtracting double digits, even from a hundred. Make it something like 116 - 38 = ??? and it certainly takes me a minute to figure it out.

Really, who cares? It hasn't made me a terrible person, and I have other areas of strength, for sure. But, I bet, in the darkest hour, most of us can admit we just really stink at something.

[Lady's Human]

I care, because my daughter is in the aforementioned math class, and they are requiring students to learn to use a scientific calculator before they have the basics down.

They're using calculators for fractions.

Unsat.


Crawl....walk....run.

In addition, I just had to make corrections on a homework assignment which wouldn't have been required if she was doing things out by hand.

[Lady's Human]

It would make my life a lot simpler if I was a cashier, or someone regularly dealing with money, to have a calculator at the ready. For years, I was ashamed of my flat out inability to do even simple math calculations. I have been very, very, very poor with math- even basic "simple" math my entire life, and have a difficult time subtracting double digits, even from a hundred. Make it something like 116 - 38 = ??? and it certainly takes me a minute to figure it out.

Really, who cares? It hasn't made me a terrible person, and I have other areas of strength, for sure. But, I bet, in the darkest hour, most of us can admit we just really stink at something.


As an addendum....

I can certainly admit that I have issues with certain tasks.

However, pardon the heck out of me for trying to ensure that my daughter actually CAN do math in her head without the use of a calculator.

Being a lawyer may not require the ability to do calculations, but any technical field requires it.

[Edwina's Secretary]

I have to go with LH on this one....it is great to have tools like a calculator but if you don't know how to do it without and understand the why you haven't learned to do the task. What happens if you need to do some calculations and don't have a calculator available? If you always depend on a calculator how do you know if a number looks "off?" You will have to accept what someone else tells you the number should be.

I am not a math whiz but I force myself to do manual calculations periodically just to make sure I still can!

[cassiesmom]

Did anybody see "CSI" tonight, the episode with Nick and the GSD ... I loved at the end when he laid out his rules- Sunday is for watching football and we root for the Cowboys :D Nick you are gonna love being owned by a goggie!

[cassiesmom]

It's not quite 7 AM and there is a bird in the crabapple tree, singing loudly! A cheerful treat on a chilly, rainy morning.

[RICHARD]

Why is there no "spring" in spring rolls?

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I was looking at the packaging on a tin of food.

The cardboard box it came in says, "delicious recipe on back".

Really?

I guess "Crappy recipe on back" wouldn't fly?:confused:

[pomtzu]

Why do some PTers come here and never mention their pets or anyone elses......:confused:

[Lady's Human]

I'd like to submit a petition to the Federal Government of the United States:

That the Federal Government add another Holiday to the calendar, said holiday to be a floating holiday falling on the third Monday of the Month of March, and that a similar holiday be proclaimed falling on the second Monday of the month of August.

That these Holidays be officially named "Excuse to sell stuff in (fill in the respective month) Day"

Federal Employees get the day off, with no mail delivery, giving people yet another reason to carp about all the benefits Federal employees get.

Due to the nature of the Holiday, Banks would, of course, have to remain open, as would retail establishments.

[Karen]

Why do some PTers come here and never mention their pets or anyone elses......:confused:

Hmm, because they know this is a community of pet-loving people, and feel safer discussing things in general here?

[snakemama]

Random...I don't usually toot my own horn, but I am an excellent cook. Tonight DH's grandma is coming over so I've got Coq au Vin on the stove and the entire house smells marvelous. I can't wait to eat it.

[Scooter's Mom]

I had my quarterly lab work done last week. My A1C is great (5.1, yay) but my liver enzymes are through the roof.
They should be between 2-46 and are 877. More blood tests are in the works for tomorrow. I haven't said anything on FB b/c only a couple of people there know about the test results.
I'm anxious. :(

[Karen]

You'll be in our prayers. Hopefully it is an anomalous result, and the other tests all come out closer to normal!

[Scooter's Mom]

Thanks, Karen. I've been trying very hard not to go into panic mode.
I talked to my neurologist (I had an appointment with him Thursday night) and he said the # IS high but he has seen that # MUCH higher (over 11,000 was his example) so while it is good to be cautious and find the cause, by no means should I go into panic mode.

I discussed it with him b/c of the medication he has me on - and because he & my endocrinologist talk about my treatment so they can talk about any results. (Yes they have my permission to discuss my care, I prefer they communicate together lol... it's awesome that they do! It's great too that they're on such good terms - their children are married and they share a grandchild.)

[cassiesmom]

You'll be in our prayers. Hopefully it is an anomalous result, and the other tests all come out closer to normal!

Agree agree agree, hoping it's an error finding.

[cassiesmom]

I'd like to submit a petition to the Federal Government of the United States:

That the Federal Government add another Holiday to the calendar, said holiday to be a floating holiday falling on the third Monday of the Month of March, and that a similar holiday be proclaimed falling on the second Monday of the month of August.

That these Holidays be officially named "Excuse to sell stuff in (fill in the respective month) Day"

Federal Employees get the day off, with no mail delivery, giving people yet another reason to carp about all the benefits Federal employees get.

Due to the nature of the Holiday, Banks would, of course, have to remain open, as would retail establishments.

I'd like to join in the petition, except that I would like to tweak it slightly so the March holiday always falls on the Monday immediately following Easter - which could be in either March or April. Other countries observe Easter Monday as a holiday and I think we should too. No courts, no mail, no banking. Retail establishments and museums are open so it is a lovely three-day weekend.

[smokey the elder]

I think Election Day should either be a holiday, or held on a weekend. It can be tough for some people to go vote. (Although early voting/absentee ballots can help.) Sorry about the politics contamination!:D

[RICHARD]

My Holiday Proclamations?

"No holiday will be advertised until the holiday preceding it has been celebrated.

This means no mention of sales or promotions, no decorating, music or store displays. The earliest a holiday CAN begin to be exploited is at midnight of the holiday PRECEDING the next holiday.

Milestone birthdays are exempt from the ruling - and they are the ONLY exemption."

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"Christmas CAN be celebrated on Christmas Eve to alleviate the need to go to people's houses and be greeted by hung over friends/families in mismatched sleeping attire, kids who want to show you a toy with annoying sound effects, ask you to play with said toy or asking your to watch them play with sports equipment they are not co-ordinated to use."

Nothing sadder than to have to go to the ER when little Bobby takes his new skateboard down the street and into the bumper of your car, hit it, bleed over it and not have the courtesy to wash it afterwards.;)

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The phrase, "Here, you HAVE TO TRY THIS!" or "IT'S to DIE FOR!" should be banned at any buffet, potluck, company luncheon or family gathering.

No, I don't have to try it, I do not like pearl onions, yams or sweet dressing. I have 'died for' your undercooked pork dish, the recipe you stole from you mom-in-law and refined it into something totally inedible - But, I will have a look at the box of raspberry truffles you just opened!

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The phrase "Hey, come here, I want you to see something/try something" shall also be banned.
I do not care to smoke a stinky cigar, see your new bike or have a shot of booze in the garage. I would not like to be humiliated by an SO or child who sticks their head into the room, grimaces and or asks, "What are you doing?"

The answer is obvious. I am doing something that I cannot/would not do in front of you, go back inside or thanks for saving me.

(Illegal activities such as seeing/handling/operating fireworks, firearms, moonshine/homemade beer/wine, Cuban cigars, modified motor operated vehicles or taking a break from a nagging SO shall be taken into consideration on a per case basis....)

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Holiday greetings shall be limited to holding a person's upper arm and telling them they look good or have not been seen in a while.

There shall be no air kissing, real kissing, hugging or grinding. IF A HUG IS REQUIRED it shall last no longer that 2 seconds.

Men shall not do the fake "bro handshake and left arm clasp" I don't like being touched BY ANYONE.

Women and men shall not wear that cloying parfume, cologne or aftershave at said holiday gathering. You gave me the same shiat last Christmas, I know what it smells like.

You will not be allowed to ask/tell a person, after the hug/kiss/grind, "You've gained weight since the last time I saw you, are you sick" or "You have lost weight since the last time I saw you, are you sick?"

You will also not tell the person you have the same article of clothing in a different color or "bought one for my kid."

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People will not be allowed to yell out a monetary value of a gift certificate or name of the store during the opening of gifts.

"Helen got a 200 dollar gift card to BestBuy!" is annoying, when you gave her a 15 dollar card to Yankee Candle.

[RICHARD]

Why is it that when I see a Kia Soul driving down the street, humans, not giant rats are driving?

[Karen]

Why is it that when I see a Kia Soul driving down the street, humans, not giant rats are driving?

The commercial features animated hamsters, not rats! We refer to the Kia Soul as 'the hamster car" as it seems pretty small - so good size for a hamster!

[Alysser]

Why do my professors think it's a good idea to have two impossible exams in the same week?

[cassiesmom]

I heard a commercial on the radio for coffee with extra caffeine -- really, coffee makers?!

[RICHARD]

The commercial features animated hamsters, not rats! We refer to the Kia Soul as 'the hamster car" as it seems pretty small - so good size for a hamster!

I should have known rats do not drive?;)

On another note?

Can generals courtmartial their 'privates' if they do not behave??:confused::o:eek:

[Scooter's Mom]

I had my quarterly lab work done last week. My A1C is great (5.1, yay) but my liver enzymes are through the roof.
They should be between 2-46 and are 877. More blood tests are in the works for tomorrow. I haven't said anything on FB b/c only a couple of people there know about the test results.
I'm anxious. :(


I got my newest lab results back - One # is back to the "perfect" range and the other is just slightly elevated. Sooo... who knows what was going on last week! Either way, thank goodness!

[Karen]

I got my newest lab results back - One # is back to the "perfect" range and the other is just slightly elevated. Sooo... who knows what was going on last week! Either way, thank goodness!

Yay! Very glad!

[snakemama]

I told someone I'd get up at 7am to edit a paper. She was so thrilled! Then I remembered that I work an 11 hour shift tomorrow. I'm gonna be pooped!

[pomtzu]

If water dries our skin out, then why do we slather on the hand and body lotion whose main ingredient is water, in an attempt to rehydrate/moisturize our dry skin??? :rolleyes:

[RICHARD]

Why do the people frown in the "BEFORE" pictures for a product and smile in the "AFTER" photos?;)

[phesina]

And why do the people in the "BEFORE" pictures always look a mess, and then they have nice clothes and hair and makeup in the "AFTER" photos.. regardless of what they are demonstrating before and after of?

[Karen]

And why do the people in the "BEFORE" pictures always look a mess, and then they have nice clothes and hair and makeup in the "AFTER" photos.. regardless of what they are demonstrating before and after of?

Erma Bombeck once said she always noticed that in all the "before" and "after" shots for weight loss products, the woman has always gotten a great haircut, and said something along the lines of, "If I knew hair weighed that much, I'd just shave my head and be done with it!"

[RICHARD]

Erma Bombeck once said she always noticed that in all the "before" and "after" shots for weight loss products, the woman has always gotten a great haircut, and said something along the lines of, "If I knew hair weighed that much, I'd just shave my head and be done with it!"

OMG...Wasn't Erma B the living end?

She was way too funny and what would she think of things today?:D

[RICHARD]

When did an application become something to waste money on and not a piece to paper that gave you a chance to get a job to MAKE money?

Tablets were something the doctor gave you to make you feel better, not something to look up your illness on - and made you feel worse when you found out what you had?

Viruses made you sick, not your computer.

Why isn't Small Business Saturday held all year round?

Why was a suite written for a Nutcracker and not a Can Opener or a Microwave?

[cassiesmom]

I am so excited! My dad took clippings of his Columnea and they rooted, so he gave me one! It has no blooms on it at the moment. We read on the Lyndon Lyon Web site that some species of Columnea don't bloom in cooler weather. Dad's did great over the summer outside, so much so that he gave it a "haircut" when it was bloomed out, before he brought it inside for the winter. I hope I can keep it growing over the winter, so that maybe next spring and summer it will bloom with the diving dolphin flowers. Here is a picture of the blooms from Michigan Bulb Co. Dad's has never had nearly this many blooms on it at one time. But they really do look like dolphins! They are in the same family as African violets and Streptocarpus. My dad was watering it once a week by setting it in a dish of water for about 30 minutes, like you can do with African violets. His is in a basket, so he waters it from above. Right now it's sitting on one of my old plastic crates from the dorm to keep it up off the counter. It's the coolest plant! I hope mine will do well.

http://cdn0.michiganbulb.com/images/uploads/250/68593.jpg

[Karen]

When did an application become something to waste money on and not a piece to paper that gave you a chance to get a job to MAKE money? Welcome to the 21st century!


Tablets were something the doctor gave you to make you feel better, not something to look up your illness on - and made you feel worse when you found out what you had?

Before that, tablets were stones upon which message were carved, so the new usage is closer to the old than the one you list!


Viruses made you sick, not your computer.
They still do both - but trojan horses and phishing only happen to computers, so be thankful for that!


Why isn't Small Business Saturday held all year round?
It is, it just doesn't get the press then. Year round, it's the "Shop Local" movement.


Why was a suite written for a Nutcracker and not a Can Opener or a Microwave?
When Tchaikovsky wrote his famous piece, microwaves did not exist, and tin cans were not in common use. But are you SURE no suite has been written for the Can Opener by some avant garde composer? Hmmm?

[cassiesmom]

Why was a suite written for a Nutcracker and not a Can Opener or a Microwave?




When Tchaikovsky wrote his famous piece, microwaves did not exist, and tin cans were not in common use. But are you SURE no suite has been written for the Can Opener by some avant garde composer? Hmmm?


Here's a piece featuring a typewriter ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2LJ1i7222c

[cassiesmom]

I just saw a pin on Pinterest that made me smile: "You know what I like most about people? Their pets." :D

[Lady's Human]

You know you're not awake yet...

When you read a headline about a train crash in NJ and you read it as "Train derails, Rodents evacuated".

[Karen]

You know you're not awake yet...

When you read a headline about a train crash in NJ and you read it as "Train derails, Rodents evacuated".

Hee hee hee - Paul calls that condition "animals on the brain!"

[lizbud]

You know something is up with weather patterns when it's December and you still have dandelions blooming in the yard.

[pomtzu]

If this is such a happy time of the year, then why don't I feel happy????? :(

[Karen]

If this is such a happy time of the year, then why don't I feel happy????? :(

Lots of people struggle this time of year, especially because of the lack of sunlight, and growing darkness. Severe case are known as Seasonal The "holiday" season also tends to remind people of loved ones who have since passed away, or traditions no longer held - it is very difficult for many people.

See if you can find a "daylight" lamp to shine around you especially in the afternoons and early evenings.

I most of all, remember that you are loved, no matter what. Sending you hugs!

[issop]

God loves you no matter what

[pomtzu]

Thanks Karen and issop. As I've gotten older, the "bout of the holiday blues" seems to hit every year, tho this year it struck earlier than usual. Maybe that means it will be over earlier than usual??? It will pass and I'll be fine. It's not the lack of sunlight that is the issue, but more of things and people (and pets) that are no more - for whatever reason. :(

[Karen]

Pomtzu, especially so soon after losing Sparky, it is understandable. But we are hear for you, no matter what!


Now, for a completely random though, I have just finished a toasted cheese sandwich with share cheddar and dill pickles - YUMMY! Whay have I not thought of this before?

(Okay, many years of not being able to eat cucumbers has a lot to do with it, but still ... yum!)

[CountryWolf07]

I think I know what Mike got me for Christmas, but I hope I can keep it as a good guess!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I have just finished a toasted cheese sandwich with share cheddar and dill pickles - YUMMY! Whay have I not thought of this before?

(Okay, many years of not being able to eat cucumbers has a lot to do with it, but still ... yum!)

My mom always made them for us with sweet pickles which is also very yummy.:) I'm glad that you're able to eat cucumbers again.:)

[Karen]

My mom always made them for us with sweet pickles which is also very yummy.:) I'm glad that you're able to eat cucumbers again.:)

Me, too! And bananas, and oranges and bacon and ...

[cassiesmom]

If this is such a happy time of the year, then why don't I feel happy????? :(

((((HUGS)))) Thinking of you!!

Santa Paws sent us an early Christmas gift- a couple of unusually mild December days! Cassie got an unexpected chance to sit in her favorite open window because I haven't put the plastic sealing over them yet.

[RICHARD]

You know something is up with weather patterns when it's December and you still have dandelions blooming in the yard.

Dandy Lions?


"Look at all the happy creatures dancing on the lawn......"

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And how do you peel your bananas?

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Sweet pickle relish?

Reminds me of my dad..

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About the holiday blues?

When I start to think about the holidays there are times when I feel like crap, but sometimes it's better to do little things, as painful as they may seem, to get me out of my funk.

I want a good tamale late at night, it would remind me of the times my family stayed up late to make them.

I sing Christmas tunes - what lyrics I know of them - Silent Night was my mom's fave, she'd sing that and it would really touch me.

I'll go out to a store where there are a bunch of people, just so I don't feel alone.

I'll bake something quick, like the recipe off the back of Quaker Oats - those oatmeal cookies are FN' good.

I stop and think of all the people who don't have it as good as I do.
I don't have as many problems in comparison.
I am thankful for another year on the planet.
I am thankful for a warm house, bed, hot food, clean clothes.
I am thankful I haven't had to live thru the aftermath of a superstorm.
I am thankful..........

[pomtzu]

Oh Richard........you will love this one!

Just when I thought these vulture lawyers that run all these t.v. ads encouraging people to sue for whatever nonsense they can think of had run out of material/ideas - I saw a new one today.

Now it's injury from steel ladders, desks and chairs! :rolleyes: What next???? - foot injury because the shoe of a certain manufacturer didn't run true to size and you got blisters??? :p

[RICHARD]

Oh Richard........you will love this one!

Just when I thought these vulture lawyers that run all these t.v. ads encouraging people to sue for whatever nonsense they can think of had run out of material/ideas - I saw a new one today.

Now it's injury from steel ladders, desks and chairs! :rolleyes: What next???? - foot injury because the shoe of a certain manufacturer didn't run true to size and you got blisters??? :p

I'll keep my toes out of the water on than one?

[momoffuzzyfaces]

Thanks Karen and issop. As I've gotten older, the "bout of the holiday blues" seems to hit every year, tho this year it struck earlier than usual. Maybe that means it will be over earlier than usual??? It will pass and I'll be fine. It's not the lack of sunlight that is the issue, but more of things and people (and pets) that are no more - for whatever reason. :(

That's just the way I feel too. Christmas is built up to be such a family time, that it's hard for those who are scare on the family and friends department. I don't drink but this time of year makes me wish I could get drunk and stay that way until Jan 2nd. (I want to sleep through all the football games on tv too) :love:

[Karen]

That's just the way I feel too. Christmas is built up to be such a family time, that it's hard for those who are scare on the family and friends department. I don't drink but this time of year makes me wish I could get drunk and stay that way until Jan 2nd. (I want to sleep through all the football games on tv too) :love:

You'd have to sleep long than that to miss all the football!

Have you considered doing some volunteer work in December, just to take your mind off the ones you miss? Visiting lonely folks in the nursing home (ask who never gets visitors, there are always some) and just bringing a little ornament or some inexpensive little thing to cheer them up might make you feel better, too! When I was a kid, Ma would take us to nursing homes to sing, and now I know what a happy difference that made for the people there. Any new face is welcome!

[cassiesmom]

I heard this on the radio today and I just figured it out... Holy cow! After December 12, 2012 (12/12/12), there won't be any "repetitive" calendar dates for quite a long while!

[RICHARD]

Years ago I was asked to volunteer to do face painting for a Christmas party.

I can't face paint - my art talent is limited to watching the guy with the 'fro on PBS.;)

I sat down, daunted, struggling thru the first handful of kids.

Who knew kids didn't care about a Christmas tree or reindeer, they wanted the cartoon character of the day drawn on their faces!

By the time I got good at Christmas trees, wreaths and reindeer, the party was over.

-----------------------

In the end it wasn't about toys, trees or the fad of the day.

It was the look of a kid's face when you put up the mirror so they could see what you did for them.

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I picked up some face paints for a dollar at the store the other day.

You never know when you may need them?:D

[Alysser]

Why did my sister think it was a good idea to volunteer Mikey as a therapy dog for stressed out students? Now I'm stuck bringing him to her campus tonight....lol this should be interesting.:p

[Lady's Human]

Just placed part of my annual CHristmas order with a website.

THey sell various and sundry coffees from around the world, and are the only ones I can find who sell one coffee I really like for less than 3 arms and 2 legs.

I also peruse their site and try different coffees here and there. One caught my eye, for the sole reason of the product name.

It was xxxxxx "excellent Aroma Coffee".


Do they sell multiple grades?

Do they sell a lousy aroma coffee and a not too bad aroma coffee?
:p

[pomtzu]

.


Do they sell multiple grades?

Do they sell a lousy aroma coffee and a not too bad aroma coffee?
:p

Absolutely!!! I have smelled freshly brewed that smells like coffee that has burned on the bottom of the pot that was almost empty, after someone neglected to turn the machine off. YUK!

Have you tried the Kahlua flavored coffee? Delish - and the aroma fills the whole house. :)

[pomtzu]

Do women wear aprons anymore - other than the Amish - and do the stores even sell them?:confused:

[Randi]

Do women wear aprons anymore - other than the Amish - and do the stores even sell them?:confused:
I do now and again - depending on what I make.

[Karen]

I do not wear an apron, when I am doing major cooking, I just don't dress in anything too nice!

[pomtzu]

I do now and again - depending on what I make.


I do not wear an apron, when I am doing major cooking, I just don't dress in anything too nice!

I was baking this a.m. and actually wished I had one. I did remember that I had one somewhere, and found one of those "half" aprons in a kitchen drawer - the kind that's just from the waist down - but I want a full one and not just a kitchen towel thrown over my shoulder like I normally do. I remember when I was a kid, that my mother wore one every day - that was just part of her normal attire around the house. Along with the housedress, slip, girdle, stockings, and what I used to call "orthopedic" shoes. She never wore a pair of slacks until she was in her 70's and I convinced her that she would be much warmer wearing them in the cold months.

Times sure have changed!

[cassiesmom]

Do women wear aprons anymore - other than the Amish - and do the stores even sell them?:confused:

My mom remembers that my great-grandmother always wore a half apron. All day, every day. When I look at pictures of her, she does have an apron on in most of them :)

My mom and my sister both wear a bib apron when they cook. I have one from Williams-Sonoma with red and white stripes. I got it for a skit for an office Christmas party.

I was watching Anne Burrell's show on the Food Network one day and she kept wiping her hands on her shirt! Yuck! Put an apron on, Anne!

[ChrisH]

I wear one every time I cook ... because I'm messy. :)

[Lady's Human]

The primary rule of mechanics has been met......

The job ain't done 'til someone sheds a little blood on the machine.

[RICHARD]

The primary rule of mechanics has been met......

The job ain't done 'til someone sheds a little blood on the machine.

And if it's the blood of a virgin?:eek:

If I remember correctly, Stephen King wrote a story about a laundry machine that killed people because a virgin cut herself and bled on it. She put a hex on the darned thing.

When I work with people on any mechanical job, I ask for credentials.:o

[RICHARD]

I wear one every time I cook ... because I'm messy. :)

LOL, there's an old joke about making breakfast, especially frying bacon, in the nude.

I always laugh and picture someone buck naked, wearing an apron with a fork in hand, diligently frying pork products.:o:)

[Karen]

And if it's the blood of a virgin?:eek:

If I remember correctly, Stephen King wrote a story about a laundry machine that killed people because a virgin cut herself and bled on it. She put a hex on the darned thing.

When I work with people on any mechanical job, I ask for credentials.:o

There was a lot more involved in the "laundry machine" story than someone bleeding on it, including belladonna and other steps, before the machine turned lethal.

[Lady's Human]

Dear utility company:

On or off, please, and preferably on with 120 VAC give or take 2%.

[Karen]

Dear body of mine ... why do some places bruise and others not, when they all seemed to hit the icy stairs with the same force and momentum? Confuzzled.

[Lady's Human]

Where exactly does one find a 3 amp fuse for a furnace at o dark thirty?

Why don't the darned things ever break at a convenient time?

[Lady's Human]

NOAA needs to sync their current weather conditions with their forecasts......

Just sayin.

[cassiesmom]

Today's final Jeopardy answer made me think of PT!
Category: Dog breeds
Answer: (this isn't exactly how it was phrased on the show) In an alphabetical list of all the dog breeds of the AKC, this one comes last.
Question: What is the Yorkshire Terrier?

[cassiesmom]

Easter is a little earlier this year. I was writing birthdays in my 2013 calendar, and I noticed that Ash Wednesday is Feb. 13. I like Easter better when it falls in April, when the weather is more spring-like.

[Lady's Human]

Never spill paint thinner on a piece of wood and expect paint to properly cure on it.

Should've just started with a new pinewood derby car kit. <grump>

[RICHARD]

Never spill paint thinner on a piece of wood and expect paint to properly cure on it.

Should've just started with a new pinewood derby car kit. <grump>

Just find a girl that doesn't care what kind of car you drive......:confused:;)

[Lady's Human]

Just find a girl that doesn't care what kind of car you drive...... .

I can't look again, I doubt I'll find another one to hand me the right size wrench.


Why is it that you either have too many bagels or leftover cream cheese? It's like hotdog buns only worse!

[cassiesmom]

I'm watching the Baltimore vs. New England game and thinking of Pinot's Mom, Karen and Paul who all live in that part of the US :D

[Karen]

Congratulations, Baltimore.

[pomtzu]

I know Maggie is celebrating. However, my granddaughter who is a dyed in the wool Pat's fan, has to be in mourning! :(

[Lady's Human]

CBS commentators go on a rant about Belichick not speaking with reporters after the game, and the media at large continue to have a love affair with the Harbaugh brothers........are you forgetting they're complete, total arrogant AHs?

Oh, that's right....consistency isn't exactly your strong point.

[RICHARD]

CBS commentators go on a rant about Belichick not speaking with reporters after the game, and the media at large continue to have a love affair with the Harbaugh brothers........are you forgetting they're complete, total arrogant AHs?

Oh, that's right....consistency isn't exactly your strong point.

One thing that is consistent with the coverage is the fricking aural assault on my enjoyment of watching the games.

There was one mic open that caught some moron that screamed throughout the whole early game.

That was painful.

[Lady's Human]

That was really painful to listen to, I get the "feel of the game" without listening to the open mikes they've started to leave everywhere, and the directionals they use to listen to the signal calling.

Bring back Howard Cosell, please. PLEASE!!!!

Speaking of consistency, if the NFL preaches safety, why is Bernard Pollard still in the game? He has injured players repeatedly, yet he's still in the game, and there was no penalty called on a blatant helmet to helmet hit.

[RICHARD]

Speaking of Aural Assault?

I went to the movies last night, for the first time in 12 years.....

Holy Cripes, the audio was so loud I could barely think.:rolleyes:

--------------------

For some reason movies always have the bass jacked up. Being an old rock and roll guy, I don't hear the trebles so well anymore, so I miss some of the regular conversation....

[pomtzu]

So after 6 months of looking like a shaggy dog, I finally make an appointment to get my hair cut tomorrow, and tomorrow is going to be the coldest weather (factoring in the wind chill) that we've had in 2 years. Figures!!! :rolleyes: Now my head will freeze..........:eek:

[Karen]

Time to dig out your warmest hat and scarf! :)

[pomtzu]

Scarf - yes, but I don't do hats unless it's actually snowing. I hate hats and only own one - a ski hat. I don't even like the hoods on my parkas.

[cassiesmom]

Scarf - yes, but I don't do hats unless it's actually snowing. I hate hats and only own one - a ski hat. I don't even like the hoods on my parkas.

The hood on my winter coat is so big that it comes down over my eyes when I put it up. My head is not that big! I do put the hood up when it is super-cold out. I got a circle scarf for Christmas and I like to wear it like this ---
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT9oj3KEsFjsq7QVPMkE3cKFNr7i76Jy ePdJxgymPfOI4DiJG1w

[mon]

You look very pretty in your circle scarf. I have no idea why they make coats with enormous hoods either. Mine never fit and I cannot see as well. Guess we should wear 3 tooks and posess an enormous, bulbus head eh...:rolleyes: :D

[Alysser]

If I hear the word Euglena one more time...this is my last Gen Bio Class, ever, but still.

[cassiesmom]

Man, I thought the Super Bowl was a nail biter! Good right to the very end! The QB for the 49ers looks sooooo young -- like he just finished high school! He did a great job in the second half, though. The power loss was so weird - bet they will check the power to the Superdome before the next event there!

[Lady's Human]

This may be a repost, but what the heck.

It's really difficult to get motivated to do anything when you have a cat in your lap and a dog snoring into your hip. :D

[Karen]

Note to self: Before making oatmeal for oneself check and make sure the milk in the fridge hasn't expired. Sigh.

[Lady's Human]

Is it hypocrisy for a strict vegan to use products made from steel? After all, tallow (rendered animal fat) is used extensively in steel production.

[pomtzu]

Is it hypocrisy for a strict vegan to use products made from steel? After all, tallow (rendered animal fat) is used extensively in steel production.

Does that mean that they can't burn candles either?

[Lady's Human]

NYSEG storm tips....

Keep a supply of non-perishable food on hand?

Guys, if the power goes out we have god's own refrigerator just outside the door. I'm not worried about the milk going bad.......

[cassiesmom]

http://0.tqn.com/d/urbanlegends/1/5/7/C/1/facebook-closed-feb-29-31-prank.jpg
Ha, ha! My calendar goes from Feb. 28 right to March 1 ;)

[Lady's Human]

Made beef burgundy for dinner tonight.

I was reading the recipe, and under ingredients it listed "Cabernet sauvignon or other dry red wine"..



Hello?

Beef BURGUNDY ring a bell?

[pomtzu]

I wonder how long it would take a color blind person to solve a Rubik's Cube puzzle.................:p

[Karen]

I wonder how long it would take a color blind person to solve a Rubik's Cube puzzle.................:p

Same as everyone else. They just don't see color the same as we do, but even if you look at a Rubik's cube in greyscale, you can distinguish between the different treys!

[pomtzu]

Same as everyone else. They just don't see color the same as we do, but even if you look at a Rubik's cube in greyscale, you can distinguish between the different treys!

50 Shades of Gray??? :eek:

I still imagine it would a lot more difficult in greyscale - talk about giving one a headache!!! I'm not colorblind, but I was never able to solve it. Of course my concentration and patience would always give out pretty early in the process. :p

[pomtzu]

I really must clean this desk off! If much more "stuff" lands here and makes it it's home, then I'll need to find somewhere else for this computer. :eek:

[Alysser]

I really have no clue why I took a public speaking class. I am so anti-social, I don't know how I can talk about something for 5-7 minutes in front of strangers.

[Karen]

I really have no clue why I took a public speaking class. I am so anti-social, I don't know how I can talk about something for 5-7 minutes in front of strangers.

Because it will be a useful skill that will serve you well in life in general. I promise! And while the old saw is "picture your audience naked" in your case, I'd say "picture your audience as Pet Talkers, that way you know they'll be friendly!" And forgiving after all, post one picture of Mikey being goofy and all is forgotten, right? ;)

[Alysser]

I enjoy getting an 84 on a math test once in awhile, next time I'll be aiming for and 85 :D

[Karen]

Good job kiddo!

[cassiesmom]

I know we have talked about accents from different parts of the U.S. in the past. Here's a quiz that I hope will give you a smile...

http://www.lewrockwell.com/spl3/american-accent-quiz.html


Elyse
From the "Inland North" - where we end a sentence with a preposition: "Where's my snow shovel at?" :)

[phesina]

Hi from the Inland North!

Pat, another one

[pomtzu]

Hi from the Northeast, and then they list Philadelphia below that, so I guess that's pretty accurate. So why does it say I talk like I'm from north Jersey, NYC, CT or RI. No way! I lost my RI accent many moons ago, and I sure as heck don't sound like NYC! :eek:

[Karen]

No big surprise for me, it came up 89% Boston! What Hollywood doesn't ever realize is that no one but very select parts of Boston itself have what they consider a "Boston" accent, and only the Kennedys sound like the Kennedys! I know I have a Massachusetts accent, but no one from Boston itself would think so!

[Lady's Human]

The inland north?

Huh?

I don't call flavored carbonated water "pop", and I've met people from the inland north (or what they're calling that accent) and I ain't it. I can give them a break, however, as my accent morphs to fit the group I'm speaking with. Natural ability polished by traveling in the military. I can fit in in Texas or down on top of Woonsocket without a problem.

[pomtzu]

only the Kennedys sound like the Kennedys!

Not really! My brother did - and he spent his last 30+ years before he passed away, living in FL. To talk to him on the phone, you'd swear it was one of the Kennedy guys. He never lost his accent after he left New England, which seemed very odd to me. My oldest brother and I lost it really fast, tho there are still a few words that give me away.

[Cataholic]

The midland, of course. :)

[Karen]

The inland north?

Huh?

I don't call flavored carbonated water "pop", and

You must have gotten different questions than I did - that one never came up! And none of these quizzes take into account our genetic tendency to match those speaking around us! I'll never forget my friend Ieda dias da Silva scolding me as she thought I was teasing her by "speaking Portuguese" with a Brazilian accent - I tried to explain I was just saying it the way she taught me to say the phrase, having never spoken Portuguese before!

[lizbud]

The midland, of course. :)



Hey, mine said The South ? Shouldn't we sound about the same or what? LOL :)

[Moesha]

"You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio. 90% Midland.

That probably comes from the fact that I'm born and raised in Tennessee by parents that were from Massachusetts.

[Lady's Human]

These people are absolutely EVIL!!!!!

Putting a pallet of 2 1/2 pound bags of Cadbury mini-eggs as an end cap is WRONG!!!

:p

[pomtzu]

How does one flunk an open book test???? :rolleyes::confused::(

[Lady's Human]

How does one flunk an open book test???? :rolleyes::confused::(

Sadly, easily.

I've seen it done too many times.

[Alysser]

By not having the book? Or good notes? :p

[pomtzu]

Or not paying attention when this section was being taught, and you don't have a clue what the question is all about???? :p

[pomtzu]

:(:( Sometimes I think I'm an idiot! :(:(

Correction - sometimes I KNOW I'm an idiot. :rolleyes::mad:

I have to be, to eat a meatball sub stacked with sweet peppers, green peppers, and onions, when I've been battling an IBS flareup for the past couple of weeks. :eek: I'm going to regret it - big time! But it tasted so darn good - and I only ate half of a footlong............:D

[cassiesmom]

Sign of spring in Chicago - the city announced the bridge lifting schedule! Soon the boats will be going down the river to the harbor for the summer :)

http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/cdot/provdrs/bridge/news/2013/apr/spring_bridge_liftsmarksstartoftheboatingseason.ht ml

[phesina]

Oh, isn't that interesting! (Chicago bridge lifting.) I'd never heard about that before.

What a delightful sign of spring for Chicagoans!

[cassiesmom]

Can someone please point me to the "Klam Joose" thread? I am having a not-good day and I need to smile. I know that thread will be just what I need, but I can't find it.

THank you,
Elyse

[caseysmom]

Thank god jurty duty is over!

[pomtzu]

Thank god jurty duty is over!

Be thankful that you don't live in AZ and got selected as a member of the jury in the Jodi Arias trial.

O M G !! :eek::o:eek::o:eek::o

[caseysmom]

Yeah my husband is glued to that trial I feel sorry for those jurors!

[pomtzu]

Yeah my husband is glued to that trial I feel sorry for those jurors!

I'm right there with him! :p I never thought I'd ever see an XXX-Rated trial live on t.v. Some of the things that have been said - unreal!!! Of course I think that Jodi is an obsessed, stalking, nympho, but I seriously doubt that she'll get a death sentence. IMO - she deserves what she did to Travis. Self defense??? - sure - and pigs fly too! And kudos to Juan Martinez for being the pitbull that he is. I can't believe that some felt he was too hard on Jodi and other defense witnesses.

What does your hubby think?

[cassiesmom]

I heard on the news that the U.S. Postal Service has decided not to suspend Saturday deliveries for now.

[Karen]

Yes, I saw that as well. It's all wrapped up in Congressional decision-making ...

[Lady's Human]

After the GAO tells an agency what they're doing is illegal, there's not much to support their move.

NOw if Congress would just get off their collective butts and do something.....but there's already a thread about this.

On a lighter note:


You know it's time to clean out the leftovers in the fridge when you can't tell if the container of red sauce is duck sauce or taco sauce.:eek: (Looks like meat, smells like cake. It's MEATCAKE!)

[caseysmom]

I'm right there with him! :p I never thought I'd ever see an XXX-Rated trial live on t.v. Some of the things that have been said - unreal!!! Of course I think that Jodi is an obsessed, stalking, nympho, but I seriously doubt that she'll get a death sentence. IMO - she deserves what she did to Travis. Self defense??? - sure - and pigs fly too! And kudos to Juan Martinez for being the pitbull that he is. I can't believe that some felt he was too hard on Jodi and other defense witnesses.

What does your hubby think?

When I get home from work I ask him how his girlfriend is, (that is Jodi hehe) he has a few words that he calls her that I can't repeat here. I can't believe how many mock juries find her innocent, do you know how much work it would be to stab someone 27 times :eek:

[Alysser]

I watched a documentary on the Jodi Arias case, all I can say: nutcase. :eek: It didn't take me long to become convinced of that while watching the show. :eek: Is she still claiming a Man and a Women broke in an killed him? She incriminated herself with that Camera. And the two weeks she didn't tell anyone about the "incident" because she blocked it out of her mind or something.

ETA: Oh so the new thing is she made the whole thing up and killed him in self-defense??? Oh my gosh, well, all I can say is that I hope she enjoys prison!

The scariest thing is how manipulative this girl can be to some people! I mean she ain't fooling me but she appears to be so ridiculously innocent. I think she's crazy.

[pomtzu]

he do you know how much work it would be to stab someone 27 times :eek:

Correction - 29 times. And don't forget that she slit his throat from ear to ear and nearly beheaded him, and then shot him in the head, too - just to make sure he was really dead, I guess! All this after an all day session of kinky sex - complete with pictures too. :eek: Then she got in her car and drove to Utah and had an "escapade" with another guy. Yup - she's a real sweetheart, for sure. :rolleyes:

[caseysmom]

Correction - 29 times. And don't forget that she slit his throat from ear to ear and nearly beheaded him, and then shot him in the head, too - just to make sure he was really dead, I guess! All this after an all day session of kinky sex - complete with pictures too. :eek: Then she got in her car and drove to Utah and had an "escapade" with another guy. Yup - she's a real sweetheart, for sure. :rolleyes:

I didn't know all that, my hubby said yep when I asked him if he knew.

[Alysser]

I don't know about anybody else, but I am extremely happy for the Alexander Family and with the verdict!;)

[cassiesmom]

There's a comic strip called "Mutts" by Patrick O'Donnell. I love it but at the same time it makes me very sad. The past few days have been "Shelter Stories". The characters talk about being adopted. There was one a few days ago about waking up, drinking coffee and then going to the shelter and bringing home a kitty - A perfect day. I did that with Cassie... I actually met her on a Saturday and then went back the next day, had my screening interview and brought her home. The first few days were scary because she was frightened and hiding. But she came out and made herself at home :love: :love:. But I'm torn about this comic because it touches my heart. I want to bring ALL the kitties home. Perfect day after day after day... But I can't :(

[phesina]

I look at "Mutts" every day (I get it by e-mail), and I love it too, Elyse. And the "Shelter Stories" (which he does every year) also make me very sad, for the same reason. I want to bring every one of them home, too.

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

[Karen]

Note to self - one spoonful of instant coffee is plenty to make "iced 'coffee'" for myself! I dissolved two teaspoons full in some hot water, then added sugar, milk and ice, and it was way too dark - it was actually like coffee a normal person might drink! The horror!

[Alysser]

Dear Spring Semester,

I am so glad you are almost over! From my calculations, I will get at least an A- in Public Speaking, an B+/A- in Geology (the most obnoxious class I've ever taken), and an B in General Biology II with the potential of getting either a C+/B- in Math :eek: I still have my math final but hopefully I'll wind up with a B!

This week has been HELL with my practicals, Geo and Bio Finals but I passed all of them with a B- and higher, so take that!

It's an amazing feeling to know I am actually succeeding as a Science major with a 3.6 GPA overall!:D

[caseysmom]

Dear Spring Semester,

I am so glad you are almost over! From my calculations, I will get at least an A- in Public Speaking, an B+/A- in Geology (the most obnoxious class I've ever taken), and an B in General Biology II with the potential of getting either a C+/B- in Math :eek: I still have my math final but hopefully I'll wind up with a B!

This week has been HELL with my practicals, Geo and Bio Finals but I passed all of them with a B- and higher, so take that!

It's an amazing feeling to know I am actually succeeding as a Science major with a 3.6 GPA overall!:D

Good job!

[phesina]

Dear Spring Semester,

I am so glad you are almost over! From my calculations, I will get at least an A- in Public Speaking, an B+/A- in Geology (the most obnoxious class I've ever taken), and an B in General Biology II with the potential of getting either a C+/B- in Math :eek: I still have my math final but hopefully I'll wind up with a B!

This week has been HELL with my practicals, Geo and Bio Finals but I passed all of them with a B- and higher, so take that!

It's an amazing feeling to know I am actually succeeding as a Science major with a 3.6 GPA overall!:D

Well done! You should feel very proud of yourself!

[cassiesmom]

I look at "Mutts" every day (I get it by e-mail), and I love it too, Elyse. And the "Shelter Stories" (which he does every year) also make me very sad, for the same reason. I want to bring every one of them home, too.

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

Dear Mr. O'Donnell --- Your "Shelter Stories" are making me cry. Today's strip (Philo) just did me in. When I adopted my kitty it was with the understanding that she would be an "only", a promise I've kept all these years. But your "Shelter Stories" make me want to go to the shelter right now and bring all the waiting animals home. I love "Mutts"!



It's an amazing feeling to know I am actually succeeding as a Science major with a 3.6 GPA overall
Congratulations, Alysser! Well done!

My dad has a bird feeder in the back yard and he and my mom enjoy watching the birds as they visit. (And the kitties too :rolleyes:) Today they saw a rose-breasted grosbeak (sp?) in the grass under the feeder. :)

[NocturneJewel]

Note to self - one spoonful of instant coffee is plenty to make "iced 'coffee'" for myself! I dissolved two teaspoons full in some hot water, then added sugar, milk and ice, and it was way too dark - it was actually like coffee a normal person might drink! The horror!

Actually, the sounds quite good!

[Karen]

My dad has a bird feeder in the back yard and he and my mom enjoy watching the birds as they visit. (And the kitties too :rolleyes:) Today they saw a rose-breasted grosbeak (sp?) in the grass under the feeder. :)

Cool, I haven't seen one of those in years!

[cassiesmom]

I have a question for those of you who use an iPod. Fry's Electronics has the iPod Shuffle on sale for $45. I sit in an office at work with two other people. One has a radio that she sometimes plays for us, but not always. The office is super quiet and I just need some background music. I'm wondering ... should I go get the iPod? You pay by the song on iTunes, correct? Can I transfer songs from CDs onto iPod? An iPod would be an ideal solution because I could listen with ear buds. It would not disturb my other co-worker, who likes quiet. Should I save up for the iPod Nano, though? If you have an iPhone, does it also function as an iPod? I heard on the news that the iPhone is now the most popular camera in America.

And Taz Zoee, guess what song is stuck in my head again? Pink and Nate Ruess! I like that song sooo much!

[Karen]

I have a question for those of you who use an iPod. Fry's Electronics has the iPod Shuffle on sale for $45. I sit in an office at work with two other people. One has a radio that she sometimes plays for us, but not always. The office is super quiet and I just need some background music. I'm wondering ... should I go get the iPod? You pay by the song on iTunes, correct? Can I transfer songs from CDs onto iPod? An iPod would be an ideal solution because I could listen with ear buds. It would not disturb my other co-worker, who likes quiet. Should I save up for the iPod Nano, though? If you have an iPhone, does it also function as an iPod? I heard on the news that the iPhone is now the most popular camera in America.

And Taz Zoee, guess what song is stuck in my head again? Pink and Nate Ruess! I like that song sooo much!

Yes, you can load an CD into iTunes, so the music will be on your iPod! I love my little iPod, make sure yours come with earphones so you don't need a dock for it! You can buy songs on iTunes, or other places, too - they are usually 99¢ or so, and then they are yours. And there are always free ones. You can also susbscribe to pod cats, that you can set to download onto your iPod! Let me know if you have any other questions!

[Lady's Human]

Note to self:

Clean out cache files, temps, etc BEFORE running a root level antivirus scan.

3 hours is a touch long to wait......

[cassiesmom]

On my way to work today I saw three 18-wheel trucks marked "Taylor Swift RED Tour 2013". Must have been taking her sets and equipment to the next tour stop. I know she has a date in Chicago in August ... I wonder where they were coming from, or where they were headed. I'm guessing Taylor Swift doesn't travel in an 18-wheel truck from city to city! I wonder if she has a bus like some stars do, or if she goes by airplane. She's so young and so successful. Lots of talent, that girl.

[cassiesmom]

I look at "Mutts" every day (I get it by e-mail), and I love it too, Elyse. And the "Shelter Stories" (which he does every year) also make me very sad, for the same reason. I want to bring every one of them home, too.

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

Who else has seen "Mutts" this week? There is a new character - a cicada! It's been a fun week with the new guy :)

[phesina]

I saw it!

I heard on the radio yesterday that that really is happening: the cicadas are coming out after 17 years. I don't know any more about it.

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

[Alysser]

I got about 20 feet away from one of the Bald Eagles at work today, great experience and made a bunch of 4th graders extremely happy!

[Alysser]

I saw it!

I heard on the radio yesterday that that really is happening: the cicadas are coming out after 17 years. I don't know any more about it.

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

The Brood II Cicadas have already invaded in North Jersey, I haven't seen them yet! They are distinctly different from normal Dog Day Cicadas, and have red eyes. They leave there creepy exo-skeletons everywhere.

[cassiesmom]

I read in the newspaper that a company started selling T-shirts with "Chicago Stronger" printed on them, a take-off from the famous "Boston Strong". They quickly got complaints and stopped selling the T-shirts. They've said the profits from those shirts will be given to charity. I think that was the right action for them to take. What happened at the Boston Marathon was tragic, but many people responded quickly to help save others. There was a lot of strength shown in Boston that day and since. The company could have put "Sweet Home Chicago" or "Windy City" or something else on the shirts they sold in Chicago.

[phesina]

I read in the newspaper that a company started selling T-shirts with "Chicago Stronger" printed on them, a take-off from the famous "Boston Strong". They quickly got complaints and stopped selling the T-shirts. They've said the profits from those shirts will be given to charity. I think that was the right action for them to take. What happened at the Boston Marathon was tragic, but many people responded quickly to help save others. There was a lot of strength shown in Boston that day and since. The company could have put "Sweet Home Chicago" or "Windy City" or something else on the shirts they sold in Chicago.

I like "Sweet Home Chicago." I'll buy that t-shirt when I come to Chicago on the road trip!

[cassiesmom]

Thanks Phesina for starting this Canada Day thread,cloudy where we are,a little windy,no rain until around midnight into Tuesday.Having a Ham Steak cooked on the barbecue.

This sounds delicious, Barry! My dad got a new grill from the whole family for Father's Day. I should pick up a ham steak and a can of pineapple rings to put on the grill over the weekend. Thank you for the idea!

[Catty1]

Note to self:

Clean out cache files, temps, etc BEFORE running a root level antivirus scan.

3 hours is a touch long to wait......

I feel your pain......:eek:

[cassiesmom]

There was a serious airplane crash on Saturday in San Francisco, California. 180 people were hurt and two were killed. And a freight train derailed in Quebec, caused a chemical spill and people had to be evacuated. Scary.

[cassiesmom]

a freight train derailed in Quebec, caused a chemical spill and people had to be evacuated. Scary.

I heard on the news that twenty people were killed in the train accident up in Québec and 20-30 people are still not accounted for. Very sad.

[Alysser]

If trig was relevant to my life maybe I'd care about it more.

[cassiesmom]

There was a serious airplane crash on Saturday in San Francisco, California. 180 people were hurt and two were killed.

I heard on the news that the TV station that read the "names" of the pilots is being sued by the airline. What a sick prank.

[Lady's Human]

If you plant multiple varieties of peppers, it's a good idea NOT to pull out the stakes telling you which is which while weeding, especially if you have several hot varieties and several lookalikes that aren't hot.

[pomtzu]

I never really noticed until quite recently, what an evil and hateful demeanor that Nancy Grace puts forth. It is said that the eyes are a window to the soul, and she has the coldest and most evil looking eyes that I have ever seen. I was watching her show a few nights ago, and she actually gave me chills! What a snake..........:mad:

[cassiesmom]

(Scene: Mooch and Earl are walking together. Mooch has a hobo's pack over his right shoulder.)

Mooch: Where does one shtay when one goes camping?
Earl: Usually in the pup tent.
Mooch: Ha! I'll shtay in the kitty tent.

(I'm with you, Mooch!)

[cassiesmom]

I heard on the news that the U.S. Postal Service has decided not to suspend Saturday deliveries for now.

Now they want to suspend house-to-house deliveries and have everyone use a cluster box. :confused:

[phesina]

That's going to drive it out of business for sure.

[Lady's Human]

^ I'll reply to those in the morning, the postal service wouldn't want me posting my thoughts from a postal computter.

[pomtzu]

Now they want to suspend house-to-house deliveries and have everyone use a cluster box. :confused:

I've been seeing commercials on t.v. lately about the USPS not being funded by anyone's tax dollar, and only thru the sale of postage. It seems to me that they will be crying ever poorer if they try to get house-to-house deliveries eliminated. They're already in a deep hole, so I guess now all we have to do is shovel the dirt in on top of them.

WHAT ARE THEY THINKING???????????

[Lady's Human]

Pom, those adverts you see aren't from the Postal Service, they're from the Union(s) trying to fight decades of misinformation about postal funding and solvency. The truth of the postal problem is that without postal participation in certain insurance and retirement programs for Federal employees, they would have to budget far more than they currently do to pay for those. They raid the Postal Service to make the budgetary loss look more manageable.

As to the cluster box cluster, those are in a bill sponsored by Rep. Darrell Issa, (C) California, which on the whole makes about as much sense as anything coming from Capitol hill. Yeah, CBUs are going to work wonderfully at the end of a street in New Hampshire in January. The Postal Service mismanages delivery just fine all by itself, it doesn't need help from Issa (who has stated that he wants to destroy the Postal Unions) and certain other members of the house and Senate......one of whom's husband has sole rights to dispose of excess postal real estate on commission.......no conflict of interest there, just move along.

[Catty1]

I heard on the news that twenty people were killed in the train accident up in Québec and 20-30 people are still not accounted for. Very sad.

The missing people number was lowered to 47 from 50. They are still searching for the remains of five people. About 13 have been "formally" identified.:(

This happened right downtown:
http://www.montrealgazette.com/cms/binary/8626107.jpg?size=620x400s

[cassiesmom]

I love this quote from Billy Graham. "Heaven is the place of final and complete happinees God has prepared for us --and if animals are necessary to make us happy in heaven, then you can be sure God will have them there."

[Karen]

It's funny when I get emails telling me I have been nominated for "Who's Who in Business Executives" and the like, when the email address they are coming to is, for example "why(the at sign) pet of the day.com" for example! Um, "Why isn't a person, never mind an executive!"

[cassiesmom]

August 26 is National Dog Day! I am so thankful for all of the wonderful Pet Talk dogs, and for their people too! Happy National Dog Day! Hugs and lovies to all the PT goggies!

http://www.nationaldogday.com/

[phesina]

Thanks, Elyse! I just posted a greeting in Dog General (crediting you, of course!) - http://petoftheday.com/talk/showthread.php?183647-Monday-August-26-It-s-National-Dog-Day!

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love: from Pat and the cats

[Alysser]

I just paid off my Accrued Student Loan interest without any help from my parents! Pretty proud of that. :):D It wasn't that much but I still feel somewhat accomplished!

[phesina]

Well done, Alyssa! Excellent!

[Karen]

I just paid off my Accrued Student Loan interest without any help from my parents! Pretty proud of that. :):D It wasn't that much but I still feel somewhat accomplished!

It is a big accomplishment! :D

[Karen]

Watching Project Runway, and seeing the ever-dignified Tim Gunn crouched on the floor so Swatch could lick his ear made me love both man and dog both even more!

[cassiesmom]

Spent part of Labor Day clearing out. Parted with some old sweaters, skirts and pants (circa 1986 - why do I still have these?). Kept my Izod V-neck sweater and the one I wore for my college yearbook portrait - for sentimental reasons. Everything else went. Two boxes done; only elebenty bazillion more boxes and bags left. :mad:

[Lady's Human]

Good god, what does it take to get an inaccurate textbook OUT of circulation?

:mad:

3 years ago I pointed out inaccuracies with the 4th grade science textbook.

Now child #2 is in 4th grade, and it's the same junk they foisted off on my daughter. If I'm paying taxes, I want my tax money to be used well, not wasted on inaccurate JUNK!

[Lady's Human]

I understand you're trying to get the best gas mileage humanly possible out of your Prius.

However, there's a time and a place for everything. Highway onramps merging into heavy (for the area) traffic is neither the time nor the place.

Yes, I drive a pickup. However, I still try to drive in an efficient manner. You almost wore said pickup while being a rolling roadblock while merging into traffic. The "yield" signs and common sense DO come into play.....

[Karen]

I am sure weather forecasters gripe to each other about how much people make fun of them, but in all honesty, today is a good example. About an hour ago I looked at the weather forecast page for my zipcode on Weather.com. It had the predicted high of 71°F and actual temperature of 78°F and said "expect dry conditions over the next 6 hours." And it is now raining out - lightly, but it is raining!

[cassiesmom]

I thought of our Canadian PTers today! On my way to work I was following a truck from Ingleside, Ontario. I was thinking that Chicago is a long way from Ontario!

[pomtzu]

I never realized until very recently, that squirrels eat pinecones.

[Asiel]

You would have to live out here Pom---- they not only eat them but last month we started seeing piles of pinecones all around the pine trees in preparation for winter. I love to watch when that activity starts, squirrels are scurrying from tree to tree, you can see the cones drop to the ground so they can be piled later. This year we're finding tons of small holes on the ground around the trees, almost looks like a little village being built from one tree to the next. More squirrels this year, I wonder if it could mean a mild winter. Did you know squirrels don't hibernate like other mammals Pom? On sunny days we see them trotting on top of the snow, probably going to a secret cache.

[Karen]

Why does anyone think this would be a good headline - I get spam saying "Life is short - have an affair!"

How is that supposed to make life any longer? Trying to squeeze more hours into the day never works, so ….

And why do some spammers think I will believe "The end of Obama is near"? He's in his second term, so obviously his Presidency has an end in sight, duh! That's how term limits work!

[Alysser]

I need to move out.

[Karen]

When making oatmeal the old-fashioned way, believe the box when it says 1/2 cup oats (plus water, etc.) equals one serving! I doubled it, as when I use the intent oatmeal that comes in packets, one is not enough! I now have tomorrow's breakfast waiting in the fridge, will just need reheating!

[cassiesmom]

We had a "seismic blast" in my neighborhood around noon today. I did feel it. The furniture shook and rocked, and a couple of tchotchkes fell down. There is a quarry about a mile away from where I live; they claim they weren't blasting today. I suspect there might have been blasting going on that someone didn't know about. Pretty freaky for my neighborhood though!


http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-police-tremors-in-western-suburbs-from-quarry-blast-20131104,0,7206866.story

[Karen]

Glad everyone is okay! That must have been an odd sensation!

[Karen]

Okay, today's yummmmmmmy discovery - vegan dairy-free, nut-free, Kosher rugelach - in chocolate or cinnamon!

On my current restrictions, and with my food allergies, this was a delightful find! They actually also had raspberry and apricot, but I resisted the urge to buy a tray full of each, and settled with two kinds. The cinnamon could have been stronger, but hey, for what it is, they are great!

For those who have never had them, rugelach is a traditional Jewish cookie, the dough is cream cheese based, delicate to make and not very glamorous looking, but really, really yummy! I discovered them not long after moving to Newton, which is heavily ethnically Jewish, so delis and bakeries abound.

[Alysser]

SO basically everything Captain Jean Luc Picard is amazing, inspirational, and beautiful.

[Lady's Human]

WTH? I just got a spam offer for....(drum roll please) a CORDLESS earwax remover!

I though those were called Q-tips?

[Karen]

I am counting down the days until I can eat normal food again!

[Karen]

Truly happy! I am now back to eating whatever I want - was on no iodine diet for 15 days - so no dairy, egg, anything with regular salt in it ...

Currently eating Cheez-its (reduced fat kind) and having chai with milk! Wheee!

[cassiesmom]

I am having a massive craving for McDonald's French fries. I made the mistake of hitting the drive-through a few days ago, which was very stupid of me. I've been trying to eat better in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, because I love turkey, cranberries, all the side dishes and pie for dessert. My sister-in-law is back on Weight Watchers again and doing great so far. She told me that a lot of vegetables and even some fruits are now zero points (most fruits were 1 point the last time I was on it). Thanksgiving is 2 weeks from yesterday. If I could not eat any fast food at all for the next two weeks. Nothing handed out a drive-through window. I just like food.

[Lady's Human]

I wish they had a mechanic's pack of band-aids....

I don't need fingertip band aids, I don't need the little tiny bandaids that come in the other assortment packs, I need a box of knuckle band aids.

[redbird]

I am so tired of it being in the 60's in middle November. It has been so warm and humid the past few days and I don't like it at all. I want the brisk Fall weather to come since after all, it is Fall :mad: Supposedly tonight or tomorrow it is supposed to drop into the 40's which is just fine with me.

Hope your weather is what you like where ever you are.

57433

[Karen]

We had a lovely warm and sunny day today, but I know the cold is coming for tomorrow, so I enjoyed it - I love most any weather, frankly. Which is one of the reasons I live here where I do!

[cloverfdx]

We have another week of mid teens celcius/ mid 60 F coming up lol. As I was out and about yesterday I swore I saw some leaves on trees changing colour and today I definitely came across leaves turning red :eek:. I don't mind one bit if we don't have a spring or summer and skip strait to autumn/ Winter again.

[redbird]

We have another week of mid teens celcius/ mid 60 F coming up lol. As I was out and about yesterday I swore I saw some leaves on trees changing colour and today I definitely came across leaves turning red :eek:. I don't mind one bit if we don't have a spring or summer and skip strait to autumn/ Winter again.

I'm with you girl, I totally agree :D

57465

[Karen]

We have had such dark days (rain or heavy cloud cover lately) lately - not even counting the shortness of the actual "daylight" hours, that this year I don't mind if people have their Christmas lights out before Thanksgiving!

[cassiesmom]

Karen, it was 50F here a couple of days ago and I saw people outdoors putting up their lights, taking advantage of the weather.

I got a post card in the mail today from Kohl's announcing that they will open at 8 PM on Thanksgiving Day with Black Friday specials. Are there any stores left that won't be open on Thanksgiving, I wonder?

[Karen]

Store in Massachusetts and a couple other New England states were not permitted to open on Thanksgiving, for which I am glad.

Current random thought: Now I know why I usually use my mugs for my tea/chai/cocoa or whatever hot drink I am consuming - the "normal" coffee cup are just too danged small! I reach the bottom long before I expect to!

[cassiesmom]

I heard on news radio that the FDA is going to try to phase out the use of antibiotics in meat and increase veterinary medical oversight of antibiotic uses, because of the increase in human antibiotic-resistant infections. It's things like this that make me want to eat more non-meat proteins. I need to start eating more healthfully anyway and this is just more proof.

[phesina]

I stopped eating meat a long time ago. I don't miss it in the slightest.

[cassiesmom]

I was unpacking groceries this evening and in the bag was a carambola (star fruit) that I didn't buy. I didn't go through the produce section at all because I still have a couple of bananas and an orange on hand, and the salad bar at work has cut-up fruit available every day, which I really like. I've never even handled a carambola before. I called the supermarket and they told me to just keep it; they can't accept it back. I wonder if it will keep till Christmas, since it's star-shaped. Do I peel it? what does it taste like? Do I need to put it in the refrigerator? Can I put the star-shaped slices on a plate, maybe with cheese? On the other hand, maybe it's super sweet and I could put it out with cookies. Does it have seeds? It's about the weight of a small tomato, and that's kind of what the skin feels like. The lady in front of me must have bought it, I noticed she also had some bananas and apples in her basket. The sticker says "Product of Florida" on it.

[ChrisH]

I wonder if it will keep till Christmas, since it's star-shaped. Do I peel it? what does it taste like? Do I need to put it in the refrigerator? Can I put the star-shaped slices on a plate, maybe with cheese? On the other hand, maybe it's super sweet and I could put it out with cookies. Does it have seeds? It's about the weight of a small tomato, and that's kind of what the skin feels like. The lady in front of me must have bought it, I noticed she also had some bananas and apples in her basket. The sticker says "Product of Florida" on it.
All you need to know. :)
http://www.ehow.com/how_2125083_use-carambola.html

I've never tasted one, let us know what you think when you have.

[Cataholic]

I was unpacking groceries this evening and in the bag was a carambola (star fruit) that I didn't buy. I didn't go through the produce section at all because I still have a couple of bananas and an orange on hand, and the salad bar at work has cut-up fruit available every day, which I really like. I've never even handled a carambola before. I called the supermarket and they told me to just keep it; they can't accept it back. I wonder if it will keep till Christmas, since it's star-shaped. Do I peel it? what does it taste like? Do I need to put it in the refrigerator? Can I put the star-shaped slices on a plate, maybe with cheese? On the other hand, maybe it's super sweet and I could put it out with cookies. Does it have seeds? It's about the weight of a small tomato, and that's kind of what the skin feels like. The lady in front of me must have bought it, I noticed she also had some bananas and apples in her basket. The sticker says "Product of Florida" on it.


Your comment about the grocery store not being able to take it back reminded me of my last trip to Dunkin' Donuts. We ordered two (only two, I swear) donuts, one for me, one for Jonah. They only gave us one. I handed the bag back and said, "just put it in here...", and she said that she couldn't! What a flipping waste. The bag...not the donut. That was eaten almost by the time we pulled away from the window. : /

[mon]

They are such pretty fruits. Don't peel it, just wash it well and slice it yes, serve it with cheese. You might want to eat it tonight as they don't really stay fresh very long. :)

[cassiesmom]

I saw a candle at the Yankee Candle store today named Whiskers on Kittens! They have a whole line for the holidays called "Favorite Things" ... some of the others are bright copper kettles, warm woolen mittens, and crisp apple strudel. Their candles are crazy expensive, but I use their car jars in my front closet. Makes the place smell nice.

p.s., the star fruit was yummy! It has a texture similar to grapes, and tasted (to me) like citrus fruits.

[Lady's Human]

Coffee in the morning is the ultimate chicken and egg scenario.

I'm not awake until I have a cup, but you have to be semi conscious to make a pot.

Made a pot yesterday morning and evidently lost count.....Oops! (It was a good wake-up, though!)

[cassiesmom]

Mother Nature, you can turn the snow-making machine off now! We have more than enough snow!

[lizbud]

Mother Nature, you can turn the snow-making machine off now! We have more than enough snow!


I can say the same for Indianapolis. It snowed all last night and ALL DAY today. With the frigid temps, the snow will stay around for awhile.:rolleyes:

[RICHARD]

WTH? I just got a spam offer for....(drum roll please) a CORDLESS earwax remover!

I though those were called Q-tips?

Or a friend with a straw?:eek:

[Lady's Human]

I'm close to reaching the point of Wonko the sane.

Several people on the truck forum I'm a member of have posted threads complaining that their trucks are out of gas/won't start etc. when the "Miles to E" display on their instrument cluster shows they still have XYZ miles until empty.

Gauges are estimates (at best) and they're complaining that their truck couldn't compensate for their stupidity.

There were warning labels on bags of candy at CVS that the bags were not toys.

We're not litigating ourselves to intelligence.

[Karen]

Several people on the truck forum I'm a member of have posted threads complaining that their trucks are out of gas/won't start etc. when the "Miles to E" display on their instrument cluster shows they still have XYZ miles until empty. [snip]
We're not litigating ourselves to intelligence.

And I am guessing they don;t do regular maintenance, never checked the accuracy of their fuel gage, and don;t account for things like temperature fluctuation affecting the viscosity of fluids, etc., ....

[Lady's Human]

And I am guessing they don;t do regular maintenance, never checked the accuracy of their fuel gage, and don;t account for things like temperature fluctuation affecting the viscosity of fluids, etc., ....


And they're complaining on the forum because Ford won't cover the issue on warranty coverage.

[Karen]

And they're complaining on the forum because Ford won't cover the issue on warranty coverage.

There's no warranty on owner ignorance!

[Karen]

I am sure, in my hearts of hearts, that we will at some point pay for the fact that we have had two days of April weather not even halfway through January. I don't mind it being nice out, and being able to leave the house with only a sweater, not a jacket or coat, but it does leave me anticipating some dramatic payback in some form!

[Lady's Human]

All this time.......

We got a Keurig for Christmas last year, and now I fond out I've been using it incorrectly.

It says under the cup holder "Do Not Use Without Adult Supervision".

All this time I've been breaking that rule.....

[Karen]

I hate that disappointment when you realize while you have been busy doing work, your nice hot tea has gotten cold. Sigh. Just a random thought!

Lots of birds out today, chomping up all the seed I tossed out!

[cassiesmom]

There's such a long stretch between New Year's Day and Memorial Day without a holiday. I guess that's what spring break is for.

[Karen]

Really, on a winter day, a constant kettle of hot water is all that's required. So far have had tea, chai, and oatmeal - and maybe soup later!

[cassiesmom]

I heard on the news that a woman was charged with animal cruelty for leaving her dog outside in the cold. A neighbor called the city, but the dog didn't survive. Please, people, bring your pets indoors. It is just too cold out.

[Lady's Human]

The stupidity gets deeper.......

Bought a pressure gauge.

Steel, brass, plastic, used to measure air pressure, no ingestion is intended or anticipated.

On the back? "Warning: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defect or reproductive harm....."

I'm joining Wonko.

[cassiesmom]

I heard on the news that a woman was charged with animal cruelty for leaving her dog outside in the cold. A neighbor called the city, but the dog didn't survive. Please, people, bring your pets indoors. It is just too cold out.

And get this. Animal cruelty is a misdemeanor. I heard on news radio that a local shelter administrator has been working to get it bumped up to a felony.

[Karen]

And get this. Animal cruelty is a misdemeanor. I heard on news radio that a local shelter administrator has been working to get it bumped up to a felony.

I believe this varies state to state.

[cassiesmom]

I heard this quote today and found it very encouraging. I've heard it before and I think it is by Eleanor Roosevelt. "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

[Lady's Human]

Am I the only one who thinks "why is Payless sending me an ad for flowers" when I get an email with the header "Cute spring flats"?

[Karen]

Am I the only one who thinks "why is Payless sending me an ad for flowers" when I get an email with the header "Cute spring flats"?

I think that may be a gender-specific thought. All guys shoes are basically flats, not so with we female humans.

[RICHARD]

I had to laugh at the "distressed baby" story in the news.

(One of the mucky mucks at AOL made a statement about having to pay out a million dollars in insurance for a child that was born prematurely-it also had something to do with a new 401k plan the company was to introduce but I don't care about that part of the story.......)

What is a 'distressed baby' and when did the preemie tag get changed?

-------------

Everytime I hear and see names/tags/titles get changed I have to stop, listen and try and figure out WTF people are talking about.

Like the health care "navigators" you can call to get help.

Navigate? No, I just want someone to answer my call and help me.

Growing up, drunks were drunks.

Now we have to call them "abusers" because they might be hurt and maybe start to 'self medicate'?

Really?

[Karen]

I had to laugh at the "distressed baby" story in the news.

(One of the mucky mucks at AOL made a statement about having to pay out a million dollars in insurance for a child that was born prematurely-it also had something to do with a new 401k plan the company was to introduce but I don't care about that part of the story.......)

What is a 'distressed baby' and when did the preemie tag get changed?

-------------

Everytime I hear and see names/tags/titles get changed I have to stop, listen and try and figure out WTF people are talking about.

Like the health care "navigators" you can call to get help.

Navigate? No, I just want someone to answer my call and help me.

Growing up, drunks were drunks.

Now we have to call them "abusers" because they might be hurt and maybe start to 'self medicate'?

Really?

I read an article by one of the parents of his so-called "distressed babies" - and that is a term that :Mucky-Mucky" made up. She was born scarily premature, in what was otherwise a perfectly normal pregnancy, She is now happy and healthy, thanks to advances in medicine that did not exist 50 years ago. And while her parents are thankful every day that she is here, and were horrified watching the bills mount up as she fought to survive, they do not appreciate one bit being used as a scapegoat or the butt of a joke.

[lizbud]

Am I the only one who thinks "why is Payless sending me an ad for flowers" when I get an email with the header "Cute spring flats"?


Might be a reminder for "someone" to remember Valentine's Day this Friday.

[Karen]

Might be a reminder for "someone" to remember Valentine's Day this Friday.

Hee hee - but generally flowers bought in flats are meant to be transplanted within a few days - which is so NOT gonna happen in upstate NY in February!

[cassiesmom]

The story about the giraffe in Denmark makes me very sad. If they needed to prevent inbreeding, and they felt they had enough giraffes, could they not have transferred him to another zoo? Or "swapped" giraffes with another zoo to change the genetic pattern? I don't get it.

[lizbud]

The story about the giraffe in Denmark makes me very sad. If they needed to prevent inbreeding, and they felt they had enough giraffes, could they not have transferred him to another zoo? Or "swapped" giraffes with another zoo to change the genetic pattern? I don't get it.


I will never be able to eat rye bread again without thinking of Marius.:(:( Animals lives are too short to begin with, why kill when he could have a life elsewhere?

[RICHARD]

I read an article by one of the parents of his so-called "distressed babies" - and that is a term that :Mucky-Mucky" made up. She was born scarily premature, in what was otherwise a perfectly normal pregnancy, She is now happy and healthy, thanks to advances in medicine that did not exist 50 years ago. And while her parents are thankful every day that she is here, and were horrified watching the bills mount up as she fought to survive, they do not appreciate one bit being used as a scapegoat or the butt of a joke.

My point was about the term he used, not about the insurance or bills!

The bills - w/o coverage -would have wiped out that family. I don't know of anyone that could afford a bill like that.

My hospital stay was in the low 6 figures and that would have forced me to go into hiding over the costs, so I cannot imagine what the bills are like WITH insurance that covers only a portion of a hospital stay like that.:eek: