Musings of the Chronologically Challenged™ Fourth Generation

 
Today didn't start out for me as "Bash Kerry" day, but some blogs I visited brought the still-festering enmity of Vietnam vets against Kerry to my attention. An outstanding one of this genre came from Vietnam vet Joe Crecca, via link from John of Argghhh to Jennifer's A Collection of Thoughts.

Kerry Discussion: Thoughts of a Vietnam POW
From the mailbag, Ex-POW Joe Crecca shares his thoughts on John F. Kerry:
by Joe Crecca
29 Jan 04

The rigors and hardships of being a POW aside, I remember the so called "Peace Movement" and "Peace Marches" and "Rallies" that were taking place back home in the U.S.A. Our captors were more than willing, within their means, to provide us with any and all anti-U.S. and anti-Vietnam War propaganda. Without a choice in the matter, we listened to the "Voice of Vietnam" broadcasts by "Hanoi Hannah" and were shown newspaper and magazine photos and articles about those opposing the war back in the States.

One of the peace marchers' standard slogans was to, "Bring our boys home now and, alive." The warped thinking of such people was that by demonstrating against U.S. involvement in Vietnam, they'd be shortening the war and reducing the number of American casualties. These demonstrators would also try to make one believe that their efforts would bring POWs like me home sooner. They were utterly wrong on both counts not to mention the detrimental effect their actions had on the morale of our troops and our POWs.

John F. Kerry was not just one of these demonstrators. He was leading them.

Therefore, these so-called demonstrations for peace had the exact opposite effect of what they were purporting to accomplish. Instead of shortening the war, the so-called "Peace Movement" served only to protract the conflict resulting in a vastly greater number of Americans killed and wounded, greater economic burdens and longer periods of incarceration for Americans held captive in Vietnam. The war would have been over much sooner and with a much more favorable result if those in the so-called "Peace Movement" would have instead rallied behind the Commander-in-Chief to accomplish our mission and then, withdraw.

It is inescapable to think of the so-called peace movement and the anti-war demonstrators without also thinking how many fewer names there would now be engraved into the black granite of the Vietnam Wall if these same people had supported our efforts instead of trying to derail them. After all, fighting against a political regime that up to that time had murdered over a hundred million people couldn't have been all bad. But, John F. Kerry thought and acted differently. How many more names on the wall can he take credit for?

After the war ended, some of the war protesters hung on to their anti-war postures for a while. Some of them realized the errors of their ways almost immediately while for others it took twenty to twenty-five years.

But some, like John F. Kerry, have not realized there was anything wrong with what he did. Instead, he hopes we will see him as a courageous Vietnam veteran. I do not. He hopes we will admire his bravery. I do not. I remember him more for his misdeeds upon his return from Vietnam.

However, in the present political arena, he evidently has succeeded in gaining the support of some well-meaning but misled Americans. Given his past record, it is just astonishing that he has garnered any support from our nation's veterans.

I hope all will reconsider their support for Senator Kerry in light of his actions which were so detrimental to our Vietnam combat soldiers, sailors and airmen - many of whom are not here today to tell you themselves.

Thank you for considering my views. Please share what I have written with your fellow vets....

Joe Crecca
Vietnam POW
22 NOV 66 - 18 FEB 73

Posted by Jennifer at 04:59 PM

[Finding Jennifer's blog for the first time, it seems I have fallen into a gold mine of insight and wisdom from our veterans. Guess I haven't been in the right place at the right time before, but I'll not lose Jennifer again. Don't know how she gets so much information together in one place, but THANKS JENNIFER.]


AND THEN BETSY ASKED

"What is the chance that this news will get out into the major news media on TV?" The proverbial snow ball comes to mind.





posted by HCL at 9:46 PM

 
indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com

COLORLESS INJUSTICE

Chuck's coverage of the Kenny Walker case has been picked up by AFRA. How this all came about due to the perserverance of a self-described "good ol' redneck boy from Alabama" is an interesting story within itself. You probably will not see the genesis anywhere else and at the risk of extreme chastisement from Chuck (should I get a detail wrong!) here is the Indigo version of how rabbits became the impetus for Chuck to become a crusader for human rights. Oh, he's always been that kind of guy, but never so publicly since I've known him. I might add that I'm an ex-rabbit-hunting North Carolinian and all informational background I have gleaned on this case - including newspaper excerpts - has come from following links on 'redneckin'.

The GORBFA (Chuck) is an avid rabbit hunter and posts a rabbit journal for other rabbit hunters. There are lots of rabbit hunters of all colors in the South, and many black ones who read his journal picked up the Walker thread. Over the last few days, Chuck's 'redneckin' blog has been Walker-lanched for information and updates and AFRA linked "redneckin" yesterday. The case is not a black/white issue - and both blacks and whites seem to be in agreement about this. Read Comments and connect whatever dots you can find. The investigation is still ongoing. I pray it doesn't disintegrate into a "them against us" thing, unless the perceived "them" continues to be the colorless abusers of power and the "us" be the colorless upholders of human rights.




posted by HCL at 10:36 AM

 
indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com

"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these".
~ George Washington Carver



PRESIDENT CLINTON

An old man approached the White House from the park across Pennsylvania Avenue, where he'd been sitting on a park bench. He spoke to the U. S. Marine standing guard and said, "I would like to go in and meet with President Clinton."

The Marine looked at the man and said, "Sir, Mr.Clinton is no longer president and no longer resides here."

The old man said, "Okay" and walked away.

The following day, the same man approached the White House and said to the same Marine, "I would like to go in and meet with President Clinton."

The Marine again told the man, "Sir, Mr. Clinton is no longer president and no longer resides here."

The man thanked him and, again, just walked away.

The third day, the same man approached the White House and spoke to the very same U. S. Marine, saying "I would like to go in and meet with President Clinton."

The Marine, understandably agitated at this point, looked at the man and said, "Sir, this is the third day in a row you have been here asking to speak to Mr. Clinton. I've told you already that Mr. Clinton is no longer the president and no longer resides here. Don't you understand?"

The old man looked at the Marine and said, "Oh, I understand. I just love hearing it."

The Marine snapped to attention, saluted and said, "See you tomorrow, Sir."

SEMPER FI!


>^..^< PUSSYFOOTIN'™

>^..^< Bumper Sticker: Caution! I stop for gnomes, elves, pixies, unicorns, leprechauns, faeries, dragons, and other mystical creatures only I can see.

>^..^< Freedom of Religion?

>^..^< Clark backer Michael Moore calls President Bush a “deserter”

>^..^< Questions? Answers.

>^..^< Thanky to McGehee for this one.

>^..^< Baldilocks is getting a lot of attention over this.






posted by HCL at 7:04 PM

 
indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com

When I read the following essay, besides the awesome skill with which the writer composed his thoughts, what struck me was how this father's letter might inspire others in his situation. From reading personal blogs over the last couple of years, it appears a lot of single parents in pain are journaling their emotions. The father who wrote this masterpiece has generously agreed to my request to let me post it, anonymously, perhaps to be an impetus to other parents separated from their children to also write a "future letter." This writing explains the pain a parent of divorce experiences better than anything I've ever read. Some day, this will be meaningful to the child beyond dad's wildest expectations.

UNSENT - FOR NOW ...........

Hey you… it’s your dad…

This is the first letter I have written you in a long time. While we do talk on the phone often, I have always encouraged you to write more. I should hold-up my end of the bargain, though, so I thought I should lead by example.

I am writing because I want you to be able to read and understand. Later on, if you begin to question my faithfulness to you, you can pull out this piece of paper and see my words. I hope they will restore your trust.

This is indeed a hard letter to write, and I am torn between using big words full of meaning, and toning down my words and making them simpler and easier. I am already caught-up in the emotion of the content, though, and I want to make sure you read this a few times over. I want to make sure you hear my words when you read my words.

Being a parent is a hard job, and no matter what anyone thinks, parents do make mistakes. We are not perfect, and never will be perfect. We are human, and we have to learn from the times when we don’t get things quite right. Ultimately, learning from our blunders will lead us to happiness, and we all deserve happiness.

There are things I regret doing, and lessons I have had to learn the hard way. But, I want to make it clear; I will never regret having you (and your brother) in my life. Before you came along, I was walking around in circles, making the same dumb choices again and again. The day you were born, I knew I had to change. That day was the best day of my life.

Sometimes, like you, I get sad. I wish things could be different, too. I am sorry I am not there everyday. I am sorry I miss your daily grind, the times when you need your dad around. I am sorry I am not there to giggle over dinner, and then help with your school projects. I am sorry I am not there to read to you like I used to when you were small, but I know you love to read on your own now, and that makes me happy.

I am sorry that your life is chaotic. I never meant your life to be so negatively influenced by decisions your mother and I made. I am sorry you feel alone sometimes, and I can hear in your voice you are lonely.

I am sorry I am not there to teach you guitar, and share music with you. We have such similar tastes, you and me, and I feel like I had a lot to do with your passion for all-things-musical. One of my favorite memories of you happened this Christmas, when I gave you your new CD player. You don’t know this, but I sat and watched you sing to yourself for an hour afterwards. It made happier than I have been in a long time. I guess I feel like if I showed you anything when you were younger, it is that a passion for anything, especially music, can save your heart when it’s in trouble.

I am sorry for the lost seconds and the lost moments and all the things we should be sharing together. You have to know, though, that I couldn’t be prouder of you than I am at this moment. This is a tough time for all of us, but more you than any of us. Your heart is so big – bigger in fact than anyone I know. You are so giving and genuine, and we could all learn from the way you show you care about each of us.

Buddy, I am so proud to be your father.

While I love you and your brother equally, you and I have always shared an unusually strong bond. It goes well beyond father and son, and is so special that I cannot describe it the way I should. Our connection reminds me very much of my relationship with my dad (your grandfather). Although sometimes we butt heads, I am well aware he loves me more than anything and would do any thing for me. You are doubly-blessed, though, because you have us both… two generations of men who love you wholly and unconditionally.

The last few years have been difficult for us all, but I think hardest on you. You care so much and love so hard; you want everybody to be smiling and happy. I wish I could make this transition easier on you, and somehow assure you it will all work out. I am afraid I don’t have any really good answers as to when the hurting will stop, but I can tell you I know it will lessen with time… and love. Time rolls by whether we like it or not, but you and I are luckier than most… we both have plenty of love to spare and share.

I want you to know I love you very much. Even though your mom and I aren’t together anymore, doesn’t mean you are loved any less. Nothing could be further from the truth, in fact. I am now, and will always be your father, and your mother will always be your mother. We do not have to live together to love you. The good thing about love is that it knows no boundaries and isn’t limited by distance. Love between a father and son doesn’t diminish ever, and the things that make us special now will be with us forever.

There are things that happen in this life we can never prepare for. You can never prepare for missing someone, no mater how hard you try. You can try to make things better, though. When you get lonely, you can think about all the fun times you have had with the person you miss. You can listen to your favorite songs. You can read a book you once shared. You can pick-up the phone and call. You can plan the next time you will see them. You can sit down and write them a letter. You can send them good thoughts. Then again, you can just simply love them really, really hard. Somehow, I believe they will know you’re thinking of them…

That’s what happened to me today. I got up this morning thinking of you, and wanted to let you know just how much you’re loved.

I will always be here for you, no matter where “here” is. I know its not very cool to talk to your dad about some things, but I will always listen if you want to talk. I will try my best to be your biggest supporter in whatever you do. But, I will also always be the father who lets you know both the good and the bad. I will constantly want the best for you, and I promise to tell you I love you often.

Remember our laughter, and be reminded of just how much your dad loves you.

- Dad

January 2004


posted by HCL at 8:09 AM

 
indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com


RICHARD REID, THE "SHOE BOMBER"

Remember the guy who got on a plane with a bomb built into his shoe and tried to light it? Did you know his trial is over? Did you know he was sentenced? Did you see/hear any of the judge's comments on TV/Radio? - - - Didn't think so. Everyone should hear what the judge had to say. (I had not seen this before today. Perhaps you, too. To whomever I owe thanks for the link, thank you. For the life of me, I can't find you again! Sorry.)

Ruling by Judge William Young, U.S. District Court. Prior to sentencing, the Judge asked the defendant if he had anything to say. After admitting his guilt to the court for the record, Reid also admitted his "allegiance to Osama bin Laden, to Islam, and to the religion of Allah," defiantly stated "I think I ought not apologize for my actions," and told the court "I am at war with your country." Judge Young then delivered the statement quoted below (link here) on January 30, 2003 United States vs. Reid.


TIMELY TIP

Keep a watch out for people standing near you at retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores, etc., who have a cell phone in hand. With the new camera cell phones, they can take a picture of your credit card, which gives them your name, number, and expiration date. Identification theft is one of the fastest growing scams today, and this is just another example of the means that are being used. So be aware of your surroundings.


>^..^<
Never thought I'd have a positive thing to say about PETA, but this moves me to say "Sic 'er, Ingrid!"
Thanks to Betsy for link. MOF, Betsy's entire Monday blog is worth your reading time. That gal can get on a roll!!!

>^..^<
John of Argghhh posted the following. Too good not to purloin!
WHY IS IT THAT WE HAVE TO SPEAK ENGLISH?
An officer in the US Naval reserve was attending a conference that included admirals from both the US Navy and the French Navy. At a cocktail reception, he found himself in a small group that included personnel from both navies. The French admiral started complaining that whereas Europeans learned many languages, Americans learned only English. He then asked: "Why is it that we have to speak English in these conferences rather than you speak French?" Without hesitating, the American Admiral replied: "Maybe it's because the British, Canadians, Australians and Americans arranged it so you would not have to speak German." The group became silent.


SENIOR MOMENTS™

Two Old Ladies
It was a small town and the patrolman was making his evening rounds. As he was checking a used car lot, he came upon two little old ladies sitting in a used car. He stopped and asked them if they were stealing the car. They said heavens no, they had bought it. He said, then why don't you drive it away. They said we can't drive. He said, then why did you buy it? They answered, we were told if we bought a car here, we'd get screwed, so we are just waiting.

Grandma's Boyfriend
A five year old boy went to visit his grandmother one day. While playing with his toys in her bedroom, while Gramma was dusting, he looked up and said, "Grandma, how come you don't have a boyfriend?"
Grandma replied, "Honey, my TV is my boyfriend. I can sit in my bedroom and watch it all day long. The TV evangelists keep me company and make me feel good. The comedies make me laugh. I'm so happy with my TV as my boyfriend."
Gramma turned on the TV and the reception was terrible. She started adjusting the knobs, trying to get the picture in focus. Frustrated, she started hitting the backside of the TV hoping to fix the problem. The little boy heard the doorbell ring, so he hurried to open the door, and there stood Grandma's minister.
The minister said, "Hello, son. Is your grandma home?"
The little boy replied, "Yeah, she's in the bedroom bangin' her boyfriend."

Welcome Grandma
"Oh, I sure am happy to see you, " the little boy said to his grandmother on his mother's side. "Now maybe Daddy will do the trick he has been promising us."
The grandmother was curious. "What trick is that?" she asked.
"I heard him tell Mommy that he would climb the walls if you came to visit us again!", the little boy answered.


LET'S WEAR PURPLE HATS!!
In honor of women's history month and in memory of Erma Bombeck who lost her fight with cancer.

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's." More "I'm sorry's."

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it... live it... and never give it back. Stop sweating the small stuff.

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.

Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who DO love us.

Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with. And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally. I hope you all have a blessed day.













posted by HCL at 10:01 AM

 
indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com

>^..^< North State Blogger, Mike, of Blagh.com, has an excellent post on his thoughts regarding MLK Day. Please go read it here. If he's not a fraidy-cat (like me!!) perhaps he'll get Comments up so you readers can give him feedback. His writing is quite insightful and he is interested in building his blog and readership.
UPDATE: SM™ oooops! Mike DOES have comments. Tell him something!

>^..^< Remember: To keep current on the Kenneth Walker case, visit Chuck's update page. A local newspaper account dated Jan. 16 can be seen here. This site would not allow copying, but is worth a read if you go there.

>^..^< WebMD Health had a very timely article on "How to Beat the Winter Doldrums", that I wanted to link here for reader perusal. In reading some of the blogs since Christmas, I believe the Doldrums are a bit ubiquitous. But unfortunately, WebMD will not link. Pity. It offered good information and tips. Google might get it for you.


OUTSTANDING QUOTES ON AGING

Don't worry about avoiding temptation...
As you grow older, it will avoid you.
~Unknown

Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty.
But everything else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out.
~Unknown

Doctor to patient:
I have good news and bad news.
The good news is that you are not a hypochondriac.
~Unknown

By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step,
he's too old to go anywhere.
~Unknown

It's hard to be nostalgic when you can't remember anything.
~Unknown


WHERE IS NIRVANA?

When I went to lunch today, I noticed an old lady sitting on a park bench sobbing her eyes out. I stopped and asked her what was wrong.
She said, "I have a 22 year old husband at home. He makes love to me every morning and then gets up and makes me pancakes, sausage, fresh fruit and freshly ground coffee."
"Well, then why are you crying?" I asked.
She said, "He makes me homemade soup for lunch and my favorite brownies and then makes love to me for half the afternoon."
"So, why are you crying?"
She said, "For dinner he makes me a gourmet meal with wine and my favorite dessert and then makes love to me until 2:00 a.m."
"Well, why in the world would you be crying?" I asked again.
"I can't remember where I live!" she wailed.










posted by HCL at 4:46 PM

 
WHAT'S UP WITH HER?

There comes a time in every woman's life when she has to take a close look at herself. Not at her circumstance, not at what she did, not how unfair life is or not at whom made you do it. She has to just look at herself in all her glory and imperfection.

For many women this is a scary thing because often times they don't want to know the truth about themselves. Virtuous women know what I mean.

As women, we have a tendency to water one another down. Maybe it makes us feel good or look better than the next woman. Or maybe we just don't know how to tell that woman how we admire her. In reality we really need to look at ourselves and the pain we project towards other women.

Have you ever admired a woman who has been through changes in her life? Or have you made up in your mind that she is just messed up? Before you make this mistake, take a closer look. A woman who has endured the most unusual life is someone of wisdom, someone who has been chosen by God to go through things that have made her stronger.

Think of all the great women in the bible, Mary Magdalene, Ruth and Naomi, the woman with an issue of blood flow, and Esther, to name a few. Mary was a prostitute, a very uneasy woman. But by the time Jesus was done with her, she was His closest follower. Esther was unfortunate in marrying an abusive man. By the time God was done with her, she had married one of the wealthiest men in the land.

Have you ever admired the strength of a single mother? Or have you made up your mind that it's too bad she had children on her own. A single mother knows no bounds when it comes to her children. She is strong and durable. Single mothers are strong, not because she has to be, but because it comes naturally for her to protect the extensions of her very being. Her love for her children is like that of fuel to a car. Most mothers keep their tanks full because they understand that if it runs low you could jeopardize the car and have problems in the long run. Other women only fill it when it is needed. Their cars usually break down.

Have you ever wondered why some women are not approachable? Or have you made up your mind that she is just mean. A quiet woman is a smart woman. She is valuable. She doesn't go off half-cocked and she won't be the one to argue with you over nothing. She just may even let you go on "setting her straight" and politely back out without a fight. She doesn't let many in her world. After all, she has probably been through the fire and had to rebuild. So why let just anyone in? This is usually the woman that only has "small talk" and knows her place, which is away from all the unnecessary things in life.

Have you ever wondered why that woman is so loud? Well, hey she has a lot to say. These are usually our younger women who have to learn refrain. They are eager and unsettled. They do before they think, and they do not think before they talk. They just go.

Have you ever wondered about that woman who appears to have everything, yet is still very unhappy? Well, she doesn't have everything. She doesn't have personal validation. This is something that cannot be bought. This is something developed over many mistakes and challenges that have taught lessons of the unbearable.

Women are so quick to beat the next one down instead of trying to hold her up. Before you wonder, "What's up with her?" ask yourself, "What's up with me?" Why do I beat down another woman to build myself up? That woman could be my mother, sister, aunt, in-law, stepmother, niece, grandmother, great-grandmother, neighbor, friend, co-worker, etc. That woman could just be me. Women are the carriers of life, not the channels of death. Let's build and encourage each other, as did Ruth and Naomi.

Pass this to all the women in your life. Encourage and love, forgive and forget, and trust that the woman that receives this will be touched in some way.

May peace and love be upon you.

[from my friend, Bebe, Raleigh, NC]
posted by HCL at 8:31 AM

 
BUSY WEEKEND! LATE BLOG!


>^..^< Jim's Why I Like Cats blog is superlative. Please don't miss it. (Warning: It's a "pro" cat piece. :^)


>^..^< Dave Barry cracks me up! AGAIN!

One big loser in Iowa was Rep. Dick ''Dick'' Gephardt, who did so poorly that he not only dropped out of the Democratic race, but also has renounced his U.S. citizenship.

But the biggest shock was the poor showing of former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean, who did far worse than expected in Iowa, then gave his now-famous post-caucus speech, in which he sounded as though he'd been gargling with paint thinner, and then, out of nowhere, emitted a scream that was a pitch-perfect imitation of a small-hipped woman giving birth to an upright piano.

It was a heartfelt scream, no question about it, and it has received far more attention in this race than, say, Iraq. But somehow it did not come across as presidential. (``Four score and seven years ago, YEEEAAAAAARGGH.'')


>^..^< From Jarhead: I read this story. As the journalist writes, its very sobering. As I'm reading this story it makes me think of all the men and woman who will be leaving Iraq, or Afghanistan, back to a life that is very much different than when they were home. Here is a short excerpt from the story:

In a cramped room at Camp Falcon in Baghdad, platoon Staff Sgt. Alexander Aguilastratt tells his guys what they already know. “You’ve been close-up with the enemy,” he said. The men nod in agreement. He continued, “You looked him in the eyes and shot him in the head — but you have to turn off the switch when you get back because you’re going to be dealing with American civilians, dealing with families. We can’t be the same killers we’ve been all this time. It’s time for us to go home.” Aguilastratt was speaking from the heart. He knows the cost of war, as do all the eyes upon him.

It's great that the military is providing services to help members get back into the swing of a normal life, not that life will be what it used to. But I also hope the have help for the spouses of these people. They will also have to adjust not only to each other but the the effects war had on their loved one. It will be tough. I hope they can get through it. I hope they can see past the current attitudes and personality and give everyone some adjusting time.


>^..^< "What do you do when you don't have as much of something as you need? One of the things you can do is stretch it out to make it last as long as it can." Thomas Sowell said it. Go here and find out what he meant.


>^..^< Betsy posted: What we should remember about Kerry's post-Vietnam record.
When Mr. Kerry pontificated at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Veterans Day, a group of veterans turned their backs on him and walked away. They remembered Mr. Kerry as the antiwar activist who testified before Congress during the war, accusing veterans of being war criminals. The dust jacket of Mr. Kerry's pro-Hanoi book, "The New Soldier," features a photograph of his ragged band of radicals mocking the US Marine Corps Memorial, which depicts the flag-raising on Iwo Jima, with an upside-down American flag. Retired Gen. George S. Patton III charged that Mr. Kerry's actions as an antiwar activist had "given aid and comfort to the enemy," as had the actions of Ramsey Clark and Jane Fonda. Also, Mr. Kerry lied when he threw what he claimed were his war medals over the White House fence; he later admitted they weren't his. Now they are displayed on his office wall.








posted by HCL at 9:21 PM

 
>^..^< Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle). This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.

>^..^<TacJammer's Quote of the Day from Jan. 21.
The price of freedom is high. You might think you would not sacrifice your life for it, but maybe you don't have to. After all, 20-year-old Americans are doing it for you, every day. --- Australian journalist Caroline Overington

>^..^<See Say Uncle's 'Southern Culture on the Campaign Trail'. A contemporary Southern classic!

>^..^<Want to remind readers to stay in touch with Chuck regarding the Kenneth Walker case. Updates here.

>^..^< A quilt from Ground Zero.


JEWS ANYONE?

Sid and Al were sitting in a Mexican restaurant.
"Sid," asked Al, "are there any Jews in Mexico?"
"I don't know," Sid replied. "Why don't we ask the waiter?"

When the waiter came by, Al asked him, "Are there any Mexican Jews?"
"I don't know senor, let me ask," the waiter replied, and he went into the kitchen. He returned in a few minutes and said, "No, sir. No Mexican Jews."

"Are you sure?" Al asked. "I will check again, senor." the waiter replied and went back to the kitchen. While he was still gone, Sid said, "I cannot believe there are no Jews in Mexico. Our people are scattered everywhere."

When the waiter returned he said, "Senior, no Mexican Jews."
"Are you really sure?" Al asked again. "I cannot believe there are no Mexican Jews."
"Senior, I ask everyone," the waiter replied exasperated. "We have orange Jews, prune Jews, tomato Jews and grape Jews, but no one ever hear of Mexican Jews!"





posted by HCL at 8:36 PM

 
JUST A COUPLE OF NUGGETS

In a time bind today, but want to remind readers to stay in touch with Chuck regarding the Kenneth Walker case. I'm afraid I'm still in a snit about the whole thing and it's so much easier to refer you to him. (saves on BP Rx too!) Updates here.

Item Two: Are There Two John Edwards? For your edification, a pastie of E-letter from NC GOP Chairman Ferrell Blount.

Are There Two John Edwards?

One Says He Opposes Investing Social Security $$$, Other Says OK to Invest…

(Raleigh) – United States Senator John Edwards apparently has trouble remembering where he stands on important issues. Recent news stories have highlighted his “politically selective” amnesia on many important campaign issues. And according to reports released today, Edwards has also changed his position dramatically on whether to invest Social Security funds in the stock market.

According to Edwards campaign web site; he "strongly opposes investing Social Security in the stock market." In a page titled "seniors," Edwards says he "strongly opposes recent efforts to privatize Social Security, which would jeopardize benefits by risking our Social Security funds in the stock market." (John Edwards for President Website,http://www.johnedwards2004.com/seniors.asp, Accessed 1/14/04.)

But, in a speech on October 6, 1998, in Raleigh, Edwards told a group of senior citizens that Social Security surpluses - money not needed immediately to pay benefits - should be invested and kept separate. (Estes Thompson, "Edwards Calls For Social Security Protection," The Associated Press Political Service, 10/7/98.) A portion of the money, up to 10 percent, could be invested in the stock market and the remainder put in secure investments such as treasury bills, Edwards explained. (Charlotte Observer, October 8, 1998; Nearing The Crossroads: Key Decisions on Social Security Likely to Confront Senate Winner.)

And on September 27, 1998, Edwards told a gathering at Elon College how a small part of the Social Security fund should be invested in stocks and bonds "to see the kind of returns it would produce." Investment brokers and not Washington bureaucrats should decide how the money should be invested, Edwards said. Edwards advocated setting up a new commission to invest "5 to 10 percent of Social Security reserves in private markets." And the Wilmington Star-News reported on the Edwards speech at Elon under the headline: "Many in poll fear uncertain future on social security." (Charlotte Observer, September 27,1998; Era of Surplus' Brings New Temptations, Taylor Batten.)

“Johnny Edwards is like so many North Carolina Democrats – they’ll say one thing here in the South – and then they go to Washington, D.C., Iowa, or New Hampshire and say something else,” said NC GOP Chairman Ferrell Blount. “I’ll tell you one thing, that dog won’t hunt in North Carolina,” said Blount.
-NCGOP-

Visit the NCGOP Homepage for additional stories





posted by HCL at 6:55 PM

 
>^..^< PUSSYFOOTIN'™

>^..^< I'm too incensed about this right now to write. I plead Christmas and the subsequent near-death experience as the reason I overlooked it until today. But please, PLEASE, go here and get some background on the Walker case, if you don't have any. As far as I can determine, only Chuck Myguts and Say Uncle have linked to this, other than Google, here.

>^..^< Dennis WIlson has the most concise and accurate summary of the State of the Union address I've seen anywhere. Please go here and read it. You'll know everything you need to know.

>^..^< Major Donnie has the most entertaining blog on the Dean Melt-Down that I've run across, incorporating both fun and facts.

>^..^< Astrology anyone?

>^..^< Juliette brings yet another Hollywood opinion to our attention.

>^..^< Dog Snot Diaries says: Life Is Rough in the Gulf.

>^..^< Remember the Cole.

posted by HCL at 8:31 PM

 
This just in - and I'm not holding for Brenda to scoop me!!!

POPE ON THE BOAT

The Pope is visiting DC and President Bush takes him out for an afternoon on the Potomac... sailing on the presidential yacht, the Sequoia. They're admiring the sights when, all of a sudden, the Pope's hat (zucchetto) blows off his head and out into the water.

Secret service guys start to launch a boat, but Bush waves them off, saying "Wait, wait. I'll take care of this. Don't worry."

Bush then steps off the yacht onto the surface of the water and walks out to the little hat, bends over and picks it up, then walks back across the water to the yacht and climbs aboard. He hands the hat to the Pope amid stunned silence.

The next morning the topic of conversation among Democrats on the
Hill, the New York Times, Hollywood celebrities, and in France and
Germany is............................

"Bush Can't Swim"


posted by HCL at 9:30 AM

 
GUEST BLOGGER

"The Content of Their Character"
Posted by Doc Farmer
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
(Thoughts written on January 19, 2004 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

Reverend King’s dream has not been realized. Black people today are still judged on the color of their skin. But that judgment has changed from his day to mine. Back then, black people (who at the time were known as Negroes or Coloreds) were discriminated against. Now, in many cases, they are discriminated toward.

Either way, it’s discrimination. And discrimination is wrong.

Assume, if you will, that all men are created equal. That’s the ideal, and that’s also the fact. We all come into the world with the same rights, the same protection under law. But we don’t all come into the world with the same talents or abilities or potential. That’s also a truth, but an uncomfortable one for most lib/dem/soc/commies to accept. I can’t sing to save my soul, but my one sister can sing like a bird. I can’t fix anything mechanical, but I’ve a brother-in-law who can build a car out of spit and toenail clippings. I couldn’t nail two sticks together, but I have a nephew who’s a full-fledged carpenter.

Different talents and abilities. All of which are honorable. Unless you’re white.

Some universities in America think that if a '''race''' has been discriminated against, an individual of that race should benefit over an individual of equal (and sometimes greater) talent who is sans pigment. Some companies, in their headlong rush not to look racist, become the very thing they deplore by looking at someone’s skin tone before their résumé. Some politicians believe that the only way they can win is to get the Black vote, the Hispanic vote, the Women’s vote, the Asian vote, and tailor their speeches and their policies to what will please certain groups instead of doing what is right for all. And sadly, some so-called ''leaders'' in the black community use their position not to help their fellows, but to line their own pockets.

As a fully-fledged honky (the only guy on this planet whiter than I am, seems to be Michael Jackson) I am prejudged as a bigot. Because I don’t believe in visiting the sins of the fathers upon their sons, I am called a greedy slaver for not supporting reparations. Because I don’t agree with rap music spouting off the ''F'' word in every sentence and calling women ''ho’s'' and shooting cops, I’m treading on the freedom of expression of a repressed an aggrieved people.

However, the greatest sin I seem to be committing is this: I judge people by what they do, and how they do it. I judge them with a blind eye to their so-called race. To me, everybody’s Human. Anything else is mere window dressing. And because I judge people not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character, I’m doing what people like Jesse Jackson fear most. I’m taking away their victimhood. Because only by remaining victims can a group retain sympathy. By retaining sympathy, a group can be excused for a multitude of failings. And individuals can be given an excuse to remain victims, instead of rising above it and becoming successful.

Success is a frightening thing to some. It requires effort. Failure is easy. It only requires sloth and a belief that you really are a victim. And after four decades of the ''great society,'' the U.S. government has harbored and supported the victimhood of millions. Not by offering a hand up, but a hand out. Not by giving people incentive to succeed, but an excuse to fail. Because Big Brother--the lib/dem/soc/commie variety, true fascism--isn’t interested in your success if you’re a minority. It’s interested in your continued votes. Keeping groups apart, and keeping them down, and keeping them jealous of others, is the perfect way to ensure their loyalty, for the lib/dem/soc/commies are telling all of them that they’re really looking out for their best interests. When, in fact, they don’t give a rat’s rear end about any interests but their own.

This is brought into greatest focus every year. Martin Luther King Jr. is lauded as a great hero, cut down before his time, who lead his people from slavery like Moses. And to be sure, King was truly the man of the moment. His speech at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial stirred the souls of all but the most heartless. Black people were mistreated, and they were denied their rights only due to their skin color. King, and other leaders of his time both black and white, brought this into focus, and took political and legal actions to change that. To some extent, they succeeded.

Unfortunately, to another extent they created a new monster. A new slavery that King never intended, but that others saw as a political outcome of the socialist state. A political outcome that would ensure a major voting bloc, and a way to keep people enslaved with welfare-fed indolence. Instead of raising up, many were kept down. Oh, they were given the trappings of freedom, but the lib/dem/soc/commies were only tossing them scraps from their table. And they decided to create a new enemy for blacks. One that would allow them to take all they had done, cloak all of their ills in the fallacy of good works, and focus blame yet again on someone else.

Me.

And you too. If you’re white, that is.

So I am judged, not by the content of my character, but the color of my skin.

Dr. King must be spinning in his grave.

###

Doc Farmer formerly lived in Qatar, but now resides in Indiana. He receives e-mail at: docfarmer9999@yahoo.co.uk

This Article Was First Published At http://www.chronwatch.com/content/contentDisplay.asp?aid=5667

posted by HCL at 2:24 PM

 

ODE TO JANUARY

When I was little, I never liked January. As far as I was concerned, the holidays were over, and I had difficulty dealing with letdown. That's probably because my parents were so successful at making Christmastime so much fun. We always had a big, beautiful tree and we would engage in days of cookie making. My sister, Janet, a few years younger than I, would get flour all over her face and hair when she made them. She would always want to be the one to put on all the sprinkles too, and since Janet was so adorable, my mother and I felt she was too cute to refuse. Of course, there were also Santa's presents, usually toys, so beautifully wrapped they seemed to twinkle under the tree. Christmas was always a dream, so naturally I never wanted Christmas to end.

Ah, but it would, and there would not be much to look forward to after that other than school, homework and tests. Ugh! It's easy to see why January was so hard to take-the contrast between the warm and cozy family experiences and the harsh reality of January was a complete shock. Perhaps you felt the same way too.

Now that I have grown up, I feel very different about January - it has become one of my favorite months. January has a lovely, peaceful quality that can sparkle the depths of winter's darkness like a jewel. After a month of parties, shopping, and trying to keep to my writing deadlines amid the commotion, I find January's calm a welcome change. I like that I can follow my own schedule in January, without concern that I might be swept up into other events. Although I love the holidays and feel it is ultimately good for us to have a break in our normal routines, there is something seductive and charming about January too.

[Anonymous]


A SOUTHERN DEM TEES OFF

Follow the link from Major Don to a Southerner "teeing off" on Howard Dean. The author, Bruce Dobie, is a Southern Democrat from Tennessee. He must have read my mind! Read the entire article "Why I Can't Stand Howard Dean - One Southerner tees off" here.

Some highlights:

"Everywhere I go, I hear people saying how much they hate George Bush. Yet, I can't bring myself to hate George Bush. Howard Dean, on the other hand, is someone I am growing to hate."

"I'm not talking about his positions on the issues. I'm talking about his character, what he exudes and what appears to lie within him. I judge him as do the vast majority of other voters, based only on what I read in print and see on television--"

"Even the simple act of shaking hands appears alien to him. Watch him on television sometime wandering into a crowd. He holds his arm straight out, keeping himself well removed from others, as if warding off germs."

"His ability to deliver a speech is the worst of any presidential candidate in my lifetime. There is no beginning, middle or end to a Howard Dean speech. When Dean is at the podium, he might as well be phoning in a prescription."

"What really ticks me off--and now we're at the nub of my gripe--is that when he opens his occluded trap and starts talking about the South, his unearned entitlement just shows."

"When it comes to the real lives people lead in the South, I don't think Howard Dean feels, knows, understands or remotely approaches the truth about anything we do here. When asked whether he could appeal to Southerners, he said no problem--he was going to speak to the guys who have Confederate flags waving from the backs of pickup trucks. Come again?"

"Say what you will about Bill Clinton, but the man loved people. At some level, what drew Clinton to others ultimately drew them to him. When you love people, you inspire, give hope, lead. From El Paso to Northern Virginia, most average folks are feeling no spark, no lift, and no love from Howard Dean. They sense an obsequious, arrogant Yankee talking at them about what he purports to be."

"He is a man of passion who has none, a man of the people who really doesn't care much for people, a common, grassroots, Internet-based candidate who actually believes he's above us."

[WOW! It would appear to be safe to assume that Mr. Dobie has another Democrat in mind for the nomination!]


OUTSTANDING QUOTES

Money can't buy you happiness, but it does bring you a more pleasant form of misery.
~Spike Milligan

What's the use of happiness?
It can't buy you money.
~Henny Youngman

I am opposed to millionaires, but it would be dangerous to offer me the position.
~Mark Twain

I never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back.
~Zsa Zsa Gabor


IN LOVING MEMORY OF THOSE WHO SERVED

Samuel Adams, Cmsgt
By Timothy Guy, Winter Springs, FL USA

Went missing in action on 10-31-65 in the Bien Hoa province of Vietnam while trying to return to base. He was with 3 other airman, Cmsgts. Thomas Moore, Charles Dusing, and one other who escaped. Please remember him and his comrades as well as all of the other unaccounted for men and women from Vietnam, and their families. Any one knowing of the 6250th civil eng. sqd. in tan son nut in 65 please feel free to email (toadspad@iag.net) me trying to find info on his unit.
















posted by HCL at 12:58 AM

 
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY, MLK AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY GENERAL LEE!


LYNX >^..^<™

Remember Uncle NoPass? Chuck's uncle who spent "three years, nine months and 22 days without a pass in the South Pacific in World War II"? Here's his latest tale.

Seems you can find out everything about the fine gentleman at Can You Hear Me Now? except his name!!!
"My Weblog is the main outlet for my many emotional needs. All facets of me can be found there. I'm as open and honest as I know how to be. I'm doing my best to grow old with dignity." (Well, me too, Nice Nameless Guy. But I don't think I'm being as successful as you!) Here's an informative link from NNG's blog: http://www.exilemm.com/e-sub-nullification.shtml WHAT IS NULLIFICATION? NNG ends his post with: "If the people of this country wish to continue to be governed by "We the people" they had better wake up, become interested and active in said government. The very least they can do is talk about what is going on among themselves, ferret out truth from the midst of all the lies and empty promises and come to some informed conclusions before election day this year. Fear, paranoia and apathy have the power to handcuff and hobble a justice system that is already admittedly blind."

And that last paragraph is a good introduction to the following Lynxes: (keep the "cat motif" going to welcome Acidman home).

GEPHARDT AD QUOTES DEAN OUT OF CONTEXT
Tough attack twists Dean’s words about Medicare.
IS BUSH ABUSING SENIORS WITH MEDICARE Rx BENEFIT?
A liberal group's ad gets a couple facts right, but leaves out the good stuff.

According to Yahoo: "LONDON (Reuters) - More than five million detailed aerial photographs from World War II go onto the Internet Monday, giving the public their first views of some of the most dramatic and grisly moments of the conflict." Also, "The images will be available on the Internet from Monday January 19 at www.evidenceincamera.co.uk, but Williams said the Web site was already under siege."

See that little logo of the state of North Carolina on the left? That's where to find the listing of the North State Bloggers, of which I am an honored member. Click on that red, white and blue NC logo and you may see some bloggers you didn't know were North Carolinians. Some good stuff over there ya'll. Also, say a welcoming hello to new NSB member Tiffany, of Blown Fuse, if you have time.


INVEST WISELY

In the wake of the Exxon/Mobile deal and the AOL/Time Warner implode, be aware of the next expected mergers so that you can get in on the ground floor and make some BIG bucks. Watch for these consolidations in 2004:

1. Hale Business Systems, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Fuller Brush, and W. R. Grace Co. will merge and become: Hale, Mary, Fuller, Grace.

2. Polygram Records, Warner Bros., and Zesta Crackers join forces and become: Poly-Warner Cracker.

3. 3M will merge with Goodyear and issue forth as: MMMGood.

4. Zippo Manufacturing, Audi Motors, Dofasco, and Dakota Mining will merge and become: ZipAudiDoDa.

5. FedEx is expected to join its major competitor, UPS, and become: FedUP.

6. Fairchild Electronics and Honeywell Computers will become: Fairwell Honeychild.

7. Grey Poupon and Docker Pants are expected to become: Poupon Pants.

8. Knotts Berry Farm and the National Organization of Women will become: Knott NOW.

That's all for now.....invest wisely
[thanks to Kristi, Greenville, NC]


THE OSTRICH

A man walks into a restaurant with a full-grown ostrich behind him. As he sits, the waitress comes over and asks for their orders. The man says, "I'll have a hamburger, fries and a coke," and turns to the ostrich, "What's yours?"
"I'll have the same," says the ostrich. A short time later the waitress returns with the order. "That will be $8.40 please," and the man reaches into his pocket and pulls out the exact change for payment.

The next day, the man and the ostrich come again and the man says, "I'll have a hamburger, fries and a coke," and the ostrich says, "I'll have the same." Once again the man reaches into his pocket and pays with exact change.

This becomes a routine, until late one evening the two enter again.
"The usual?" asks the waitress.
"No, this is Friday night, so I will have a steak, baked potato and salad." says the man, "Same for me." says the ostrich.
A short time later the waitress comes with the order and says, "That will be $24.62." Once again the man pulls exact change out of his pocket and places it on the table.

The waitress can't hold back her curiosity any longer. "Excuse me, sir. How do you manage to always come up with the exact change out of your pocket every time?"

"Well," says the man, "several years ago I was cleaning the attic and found an old lamp. When I rubbed it a Genie appeared and offered me two wishes. My first wish was that if I ever had to pay for anything, I would just put my hand in my pocket and the right amount of money would always be there."

"That's brilliant!" says the waitress. "Most people would wish for a million dollars or something, but you'll always be as rich as you want for as long as you live!"

"That's right. Whether it's a gallon of milk or a Rolls Royce, the exact money is always there," says the man.

The waitress asks, "One other thing, sir, what's with the ostrich?" The man sighs, pauses, and answers,

"My second wish was for a tall chick with long legs who agrees with everything I say."
[thanks to Brenda, Winterville, NC]


OUTSTANDING QUOTES

A woman drove me to drink ... and I hadn't even the courtesy to thank her.
~W.C. Fields

I never drink water because of the disgusting things that fish do in it.
~W.C. Fields

It takes only one drink to get me drunk. The trouble is, I can't remember if it's the thirteenth or the fourteenth.
~George Burns













posted by HCL at 12:17 PM

 

COUNT EVERY DAY

My brother-in-law opened the bottom drawer of my sister's bureau and lifted out a tissue-wrapped package. "This," he said, "is not a slip. This is lingerie." He discarded the tissue and handed me the slip. It was exquisite, silk, handmade and trimmed with a cobweb of lace. The price tag with an astronomical figure on it was still attached.

"Jan bought this the first time we went to New York, at least 8 or 9 years ago. She never wore it. She was saving it for a special occasion. Well, I guess this is the occasion".

He took the slip from me and put it on the bed, with he other clothes we were taking to the mortician. His hands lingered on the soft material for a moment, then he slammed the drawer shut and turned to me.

"Don't ever save anything for a special occasion. Every day you're alive is a special occasion."

I remembered those words through the funeral and the days that followed when I helped him and my niece attend to all the sad chores that follow an unexpected death. I thought about them on the plane returning to California from the Midwestern town where my sister's family lives. I thought about all the things that she hadn't seen or heard or done. I thought about the things that she had done without realizing that they were special. I'm still thinking about his words, and they've changed my life.

I'm reading more and dusting less. I'm sitting on the deck and admiring the view without fussing about the weeds in the garden. I'm spending more time with my family and friends and less time in committee meetings. Whenever possible, life should be a pattern of experience to savor, not endure. I'm trying to recognize these moments now and cherish them.

I'm not "saving" anything; we use our good china and crystal for every special event such as losing a pound, getting the sink unstopped, the first camellia blossom. I wear my good blazer to the market if I feel like it. My theory is if I look prosperous, I can shell out $58.49 for one small bag of groceries without wincing. I'm not saving my good perfume for special parties; clerks in hardware stores and tellers in banks have noses that function as well as my party going friends. "Someday" and "one of these days" are losing their grip on my vocabulary. If it's worth seeing or hearing or doing, I want to see and hear and do it now.

I'm not sure what my sister would've done had she known that she wouldn't be here for the tomorrow we all take for granted. I think she would have called family members and a few close friends. She might have called a few former friends to apologize and mend fences for past squabbles. I like to think she would have gone out for a Chinese dinner, her favorite food. I'm guessing. I'll never know. It's those little things left undone that would make me angry if I knew that my hours were limited. Angry because I put off seeing good friends whom I was going to get in touch with someday. Angry because I hadn't written certain letters that I intended to write one of these days. Angry and sorry that I didn't tell my husband and daughter often enough how much I truly love them. I'm trying very hard not to put off, hold back, or save anything that would add laughter and luster to our lives. And every morning when I open my eyes, I tell myself that every day, every minute, every breath truly is a gift from God.

[Author Unknown]

posted by HCL at 9:48 AM

 
Saturday is usually my day off. But then this came in. If I hold it until Monday, Brenda will have already posted it - she gets all the internet funnies pretty fast too. She's already scooped me once this week!


WHY MEN LIE
If you ever wondered, here is why.

One day, while a woodcutter was cutting a branch of a tree above a river, his axe fell into the river. When he cried out, the Lord appeared and asked, "Why are you crying?" The woodcutter replied that his axe has fallen into the water, and he needed the axe to make his living.

The Lord went down into the water and reappeared with a golden axe.
"Is this your axe?" the Lord asked.
The woodcutter replied, "No."
The Lord again went down and came up with a silver axe.
"Is this your axe?" the Lord asked.
Again, the woodcutter replied, "No."
The Lord went down again and came up with an iron axe.
"Is this your axe?" the Lord asked.
The woodcutter replied, "Yes."
The Lord was pleased with the man's honesty and gave him all three axes to keep, and the woodcutter went home happy.

Some time later the woodcutter was walking with his wife along the riverbank, and his wife fell into the river. When he cried out, the Lord again appeared and asked him, "Why are you crying?"
"Oh Lord, my wife has fallen into the water!"
The Lord went down into the water and came up with Jennifer Lopez.
"Is this your wife?" the Lord asked.
"Yes," cried the woodcutter.
The Lord was furious. "You lied! That is an untruth!"

The woodcutter fell to his knees and cried, "Oh, forgive me, Lord. It is a misunderstaning. You see, if I had said 'no' to Jennifer Lopez, You would have come up with Catherine Zeta-Jones. Then if I also said 'no' to her, you would have come up with my wife. Had I then said 'yes,' you would have given me all three. Lord, I am a poor man, and am not able to take care of all three wives, so THAT'S why I said yes to Jennifer Lopez."

The moral of this story is: Whenever a man lies, it is for a good and honorable reason, and for the benefit of others!

[thanks to Jimmy, Ayden, NC]


>^..^< PUSSYFOOTIN'™

>^..^< There's a new blogger over at North State Blogs. Tiffany has joined NSB with Blown Fuse. Give her a visit. Looks like a winner to me.
>^..^< So I guess this one is true!
>^..^< Do you know WHAT YOU OWE?
>^..^< To those who have asked for comments on Indigo, thanks for your suggestions and interest. Please freely email comments, opinions, or just "hi" to indigoinsights[at]hotmail[dot]com.
>^..^< Jim, The Fox on the Water, has an essay on the trouble with mullahs that you will want to read. HERE.

posted by HCL at 7:32 PM

 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DIL BETTY JO!!!
(So what did you expect? A Yankee name?)

>^..^< PUSSYFOOTIN'™

>^..^< Don't miss Jack's entertaining and profound blog on TEACHING MATH over at Random Fate.
>^..^< If you're wearing Depends, click here for the funniest bit I've seen yet on Howard Dean. And remember the Democratic Party's official anthem for the campaign: "You Can't Always Get What You Want!"
>^..^< Have you visited Cathy's and Garland's page lately? Lots of new stuff, and their guide to The Blogosphere just keeps growing and growing and growing. Good links too. Especially (for me) the Blues links. With soundtracks!


NEW SEARCH SITE

Disability Law, North State Blogger J. Kevin Morton links a neat new search site: Neat Google Numbers Searches
Tom Mighell over at Inter Alia reports that Google has added more snazzy number searches:

-- Area code -- enter an area code (214) and the first link is a map of the area.

-- VIN -- just enter a Vehicle Identification Number, and you'll get a link to CarFax vehicle history reports.

-- Flight Tracking -- all you need is an airline and a flight number, and you'll get links that allow you to track the flight.

-- UPC number -- entering the universal product code found on any bar code will take you to a link describing the product. Interestingly, when I entered the UPC number on a package on my desk, I got not only the UPC link, but also a link to track a Fedex package...... JKM


MORE SIGNS FROM CHRISTINA

In a Veterinarian's waiting room:
"Be back in 5 minutes. Sit! Stay!"

At the Electric Company:
"We would be delighted if you send in your payment.
However, if you don't, you will be."

In a Restaurant window:
"Don't stand there and be hungry, Come on in and get fed up."

In the front yard of a Funeral Home:
"Drive carefully. We'll wait."

At a Propane Filling Station:
"Thank heaven for little grills."

At a Chicago Radiator Shop:
"Best place in town to take a leak."


OUTSTANDING QUOTES

By all means marry. If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher.
~Socrates

I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.
~Groucho Marx

My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she stops to breathe.
~Jimmy Durante


MIRTH FROM THE MAIL BOX

THE ARMY
Twenty-eight years ago, Herman James, a Tennessee Mountain man, was drafted by the Army.
On his first day of boot camp, the Army issued him a toothbrush. That afternoon, an Army dentist yanked several of his teeth.
On his second day, the Army issued him a comb. That afternoon, an Army barber sheared his head.
On his third day, he was issued a jock strap....
The Army is still looking for him
[thanks to Ian, Gardiner, Maine]

FROM AN UNEMPLOYED IDIOT SAVANT
1. Key-in the first 3 digits of your phone number into a calculator.
(disregard the area code)
2. Multiply by 80.
3. Add 1
4. Multiply by 250.
5. Add last four digits of phone number.
6. Add last four digits of phone number again.
7. Minus 250.
8. Divide by 2 at last.
********Is it your Phone Number?
[thanks to Bob, Kinston, NC]

10 WAYS TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE "ESTROGEN ISSUES"
1. Everyone around you has an attitude problem.
2. You're adding chocolate chips to your cheese omelet
3. The dryer has shrunk every last pair of your jeans.
4. Your husband is suddenly agreeing to everything you say.
5. You're using your cellular phone to dial up every bumper sticker that says:
"How's my driving-call 1- 800-"
6. Everyone's head looks like an invitation to batting practice.
7. Everyone seems to have just landed here from "outer space."
8. You can't believe they don't make a tampon bigger than Super Plus.
9. You're sure that everyone is scheming to drive you crazy.
10. The ibuprofen bottle is empty and you bought it yesterday.
[thanks to Carolyn, Wallace, NC]

DON'T PUT THAT DOG DOWN!!!!!
A man takes his Rottweiler to the vet and says, "My dog's cross-eyed. Is there anything you can do for him?"
"Well," says the vet, "let's have a look at him."
So, he picks the dog up, examines his eyes, then checks his teeth.
Finally, he says, "I'm going to have to put him down."
"What?! Just because he's cross-eyed?!?"
"No, because he's really, really heavy!!"
[from judiu, Beaufort, NC]

THOSE TEXANS!
From the State where drinking and driving is considered a sport, comes a true story from Texas.

Recently a routine police patrol parked outside a local neighborhood bar. Late in the evening the officer noticed a man leaving the bar so intoxicated that he could barely walk. The man stumbled around the parking lot for a few minutes with the officer quietly observing. After what seemed an eternity and trying his keys on five different vehicles, the man managed to find his own car which he fell into. He was there for a few minutes as a number of other patrons left the bar and drove off. Finally he started the car, switched the wipers on and off (it was a dry night), flicked the hazard flasher on and off, tooted the horn, turned on the left blinker, then the right, and then switched on the lights. He moved the vehicle forward a few inches, reversed a little and then remained stationary for a few more minutes as remaining patrons left in their vehicles. At last he pulled out of the parking lot and started to drive slowly down the street.

The police officer, having patiently waited all this time, now started up his patrol car, put on the flashing lights, promptly pulled the man over and carried out a breathalyzer test. To his amazement the breathalyzer indicated no evidence of the man having consumed any alcohol at all! Dumbfounded, the officer said "I'll have to ask you to accompany me to the Police station, this breathalyzer equipment must be broken."

"I doubt it," said the man, "Tonight I'm the designated decoy."
[from Karl, Hubert, NC]














posted by HCL at 10:36 AM

 
BEST TRIBUTE TO THE CORPS I'VE EVER READ

Mike the Marine said "What's so special about the Marines? A commenter by the handle of Yellowlegs told Doc Russia the answer, and it's posted at Bloodletting. THIS IS A MUST READ.

Mike's right. THIS IS A MUST READ. Get over there, Indigo People™!

"The Marine Corps is the only branch of the U.S. Armed Forces that recruits people specifically to Fight."


PERHAPS IT IS TIME TO LEAVE

Why Are We Still There??

The land is too large to secure all of it. The bad people causing this damage can roam anywhere, and we can't possibly police the whole place.
Why are we still there?

We occupied this land, which we had to take by force, but it causes us nothing but trouble.
Why are we still there?

Their government is unstable, and in the process of hanging.
Why are we still there?

Refugees are fleeing by the thousands, driven from their homes.
Why are we still there?

It will cost billions to rebuild, which we can't afford.
Why are we still there?

There are more than 1000 religious sects. We can't even secure the borders.
Why are we still there?

And to repeat: Every day we hear of more Americans killed in this dangerous land.

It is clear.

We must abandon California.

Well, I'm willing to give Ah-nuld a chance for a while longer.
Posted by John


BABY BATHING

Been meaning to get this up for Say Uncle and other new parents. Finally remembered today. Enjoy!


MAKES ME SAY Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm

A car company can move its factories to Mexico and claim it's a free market.
A toy company can outsource to a Chinese subcontractor and claim it's a free market.
A major bank can incorporate in Bermuda to avoid taxes and claim it's a free market.
We can buy HP Printers made in Mexico.
We can buy shirts made in Bangladesh.
We can purchase almost anything we want from many different countries BUT, heaven help the elderly who dare to buy their prescription drugs from a Canadian (Or Mexico) pharmacy. That's called un-American!

[From Greg, Ayden, NC]


MORE SIGNS
From Christina, Swansboro, NC

At a Towing Company:
"We don't charge an arm and a leg. We want tows."

On an Electrician's Truck:
"Let us remove your shorts."

In a Nonsmoking Area:
"If we see smoke, we will assume you ! are on fire and take appropriate action."

On a Maternity Room Door:
"Push. Push. Push."

At an Optometrist's Office
"If you don't see what you're looking for, you've come to the right place."

On a Taxidermist's Window:
"We really know our stuff."

In a Podiatrist's Office:
"Time wounds all heels."

On a Fence:
"Salesmen welcome! Dog food is expensive."

At a Car Dealership:
"The best way to get back on your feet -- miss a car payment."

Outside a Muffler Shop:
"No appointment necessary. We hear you coming."


OUTSTANDING QUOTES

I once had a rose named after me and I was very flattered. But I was not pleased to read the description in the catalogue: "No good in a bed, but fine up against a wall."
~Eleanor Roosevelt

Last week I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister ... and now wish to withdraw that statement.
~Mark Twain

The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and have the two as close together as possible.
~George Burns


>^..^< PUSSYFOOTIN'™

>^..^< What Time Is It?
>^..^< Skeleton Closet
>^..^< A man walks into a bar with a slab of asphalt under his arm and says, "A beer please...and one for the road."
>^..^< A jumper cable walks into a bar. The bartender says, "I'll serve you, but don't start anything."
>^..^< A dyslexic man walks into a bra.
>^..^< The cardiologist's diet: If it tastes good ... spit it out.















posted by HCL at 11:11 AM

 
LET'S HEAR IT FOR THE SENIORS!!!

A relapse back into the crud-virus-from-hell has again limited my blogging. It's a good bet that the long recovery is attributable to the Chronological Advancement™ of the writer, so today's paste-fest is in honor of suffering Seniors everywhere!


YOU SHOULD PROBABLY BE DEAD!

People over 30 should be dead. Here's why ............

According to today's regulators and bureaucrats, those of us who were kids in the 40's, 50's, 60's, or even maybe the early 70's probably shouldn't have survived.

Our baby cribs were covered with bright colored lead-based paint.

We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets, ... and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets. (Not to mention the risks we took hitchhiking.)

As children, we would ride in cars with no seatbelts or air bags. Riding in the back of a pickup truck on a warm day was always a special treat.

We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle. Horrors!

We ate cupcakes, bread and butter, and drank soda pop with sugar in it, but we were never overweight because we were always outside playing.

We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle, and no one actually died from this.

We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then rode down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes! After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.

We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the street lights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. NO CELL PHONES!! Unthinkable!

We did not have Playstations, Nintendo 64, X-Boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, video tape movies, surround sound, personal cell phones, personal computers, or Internet chat rooms.

We had friends! We went outside and found them. We played dodge ball, and sometimes, the ball would really hurt.

We fell out of trees, got cut and broke bones and teeth, and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. They were accidents. No one was to blame but us. Remember accidents?

We had fights and punched each other and got black and blue and learned to get over it.

We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and ate worms, and although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes, nor did the worms live inside us forever.

We rode bikes or walked to a friend's home and knocked on the door, or rang the bell or just walked in and talked to them.

Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment.

Some students weren't as smart as others, so they failed a grade and were held back to repeat the same grade. Horrors! Tests were not adjusted for any reason.

Our actions were our own. Consequences were expected. The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke a law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law. Imagine that!

This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors, ever. The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.

We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned how to deal with it all. And you're one of them! Congratulations!

Please pass this on to others who have been fortunate enough to grow up before lawyers and government regulated our lives,

People under 30 are WIMPS !!


Subject: Nobody Believes Old People

Nobody Believes Old People: Everyone thinks we are senile. An elderly couple who were childhood sweethearts had married and settled down in their old neighborhood. To celebrate their Fiftieth wedding anniversary they walk down the street to their old school. There, they hold hands as they find the old desk they'd shared and where he had carved "I love you, Sally."

On their way back home, a bag of money falls out of an armored car practically at their feet. She quickly picks it up, but they don't know what to do with it so they take it home. There, she counts the money, and it's fifty-thousand dollars.

The husband says, "We've got to give it back."

She says, "Finders keepers" and she puts the money back in the bag and hides it up in their attic.

The next day, two FBI men are going door-to-door in the neighborhood looking for the money and show up at their home.

They say, "Pardon me, but did either of you find any money that fell out of an armored car yesterday?"

She says, "No."

The husband says, "She's lying. She hid it up in the attic."

She says, "Don't believe him, he's getting senile."

But the agents sit the man down and begin to question him.

One says, "Tell us the story from the beginning."

The old man says, "Well, when Sally and I were walking home from school yesterday..."

The FBI guy looks at his partner and says, "We're outta here..."


SENIOR DRIVING
As a senior citizen was driving down the freeway, his car phone rang. Answering, he heard his wife's voice urgently warning him, "Herman, I just heard on the news that there's a car going the wrong way on Interstate 77. Please be careful!" "Hell," said Herman, "It's not just one car. It's hundreds of them!"

"I CAN HEAR JUST FINE!" Three retirees, each with a hearing loss, were playing golf one fine March day.One remarked to the other, "Windy, isn't it?" "No," the second man replied, "it's Thursday." And the third man chimed in, "So am I. Let's have a beer."

CLASSIC SM™
Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards. One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me.....I know we've been friends for a long time....but I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can' t remember it. Please tell me what your name is." Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?

DOWN AT THE RETIREMENT CENTER
80-year old Bessie bursts into the rec room at the retirement home. She holds her clenched fist in the air and announces, "Anyone who can guess what's in my hand can have sex with me tonight!!" An elderly gentleman in the rear shouts out, "An elephant?" Bessie thinks a minute and says, "Close enough."

SENILE
Three sisters, ages 92, 94, and 96 live in a house together. One night the 96 year old draws a bath. She puts one foot in and pauses. She yells down the stairs, "Was I getting in or out of the bath?" The 94-year-old yells back, "I don't know. I'll come up and see." She starts up the stairs and pauses. Then, she yells, "Was I going up the stairs or down?" The 92 year old is sitting at the kitchen table having tea, listening to her sisters. She shakes her head and says, "I sure hope I never get that forgetful." She knocks on wood for good measure. She then yells, "I'll come up and help both of you as soon as I see who's at the door."

DOWN AT THE NURSING HOME
A little old lady was running up and down the halls in a nursing home. As she walked, she would flip up the hem of her nightgown and say "Supersex". She walked up to an elderly man in a wheelchair. Flipping her gown at him, she said, "Supersex". He sat silently for a moment or two and finally answered, "I'll take the soup."


EXERCISE PROGRAM
Now here's an exercise program I might be able to stick with - for a week anyway! Also recommended for the "middle-aged, soon-to-be-retired" with career burn-out.

The doctor told me "Physical exercise is good for you." I know that I should do it, but my body is out of shape and usually out of gas. So I have worked out this easy daily program I can do anywhere:

Monday:
Beat around the bush.
Jump to conclusions.
Climb the walls.
Wade through paperwork.

Tuesday:
Drag my heels.
Push my luck.
Make mountains out of mole hills.
Hit the nail on the head.

Wednesday:
Bend over backwards.
Jump on the band wagon.
Balance the books.
Run around in circles.

Thursday:
Toot my own horn.
Climb the ladder of success.
Pull out the stops.
Add fuel to the fire.

Friday:
Open a can of worms.
Put my foot in my mouth.
Start the ball rolling.
Go over the edge.

Saturday:
Pick up the pieces.
Whew! What a workout!
You are invited to use my program without charge!!



MY KIND OF GRANNY
Dateline: Melbourne, Australia - 1/5/2004, Reuters

Gun-toting granny Ava Estelle, 81, was so ticked-off when two thugs raped her 18-year-old granddaughter that she tracked the unsuspecting ex-cons down and shot off their testicles.

"The old lady spent a week hunting the men down -- and when she found them she took revenge in her own special way," said Melbourne police Investigator Evan Delp. "Then she took a taxi to the nearest police station, laid the gun on the sergeant's desk and told him as calm as could be: 'Those bastards will never rape anybody again, by God.' "

Cops say convicted rapist and robber Davis Furth, 33, lost both his penis and his testicles when outraged Ava opened fire with a 9-mm pistol in the hotel room where he and former prison cell mate Stanley Thomas, 29, were holed up. The wrinkled avenger also blew Thomas' testicles to kingdom come, but doctors managed to save his mangled penis, police said. "The one guy, Thomas, didn't lose his manhood, but the doctor I talked to said he won't be using it the way he used to, Detective Delp told reporters. Both men are still in pretty bad shape, but I think they're just happy to be alive after what they've been through."

The Rambo Granny said she swung into action June 21 after her granddaughter Debbie was car jacked and raped in broad daylight by two knife-wielding creeps in a section of town bordering on skid row. "When I saw the look on my Debbie's face that night in the hospital, I decided I was going to go out and get those bastards myself 'cause I figured the Law would go easy on them," recalled the retired library worker. "And I wasn't scared of them, either -- because I've got me a gun and I've been shoo-in' all my life. And I wasn't dumb enough to turn it in when the law changed about owning one."

Using a police artist's sketch of the suspects and Debbie's description of the sickos, tough-as-nails Ava spent seven days prowling the wino-infested section where the crime took place till she spotted the ill-fated rapists entering their flophouse hotel. "I know it was them the minute I saw 'em, but I shot a picture of 'em anyway and took it back to Debbie and she said sure as hell, it was them," the oldster recalled. "So I went back to that hotel and found their room and knocked on the door -- and the minute the big one, Furth, opened the door, I shot 'em right square between the legs, right where it would really hurt 'em most, you know. Then I went in and shot the other one as he backed up pleading to me to spare him. Then I went down to the police station and turned myself in."

Now, baffled lawmen are trying to figure out exactly how to deal with the vigilante granny. "What she did was wrong, and she broke the law, but it is difficult to throw an 81-year-old woman in prison," Det. Delp said. "Specially when 3 million people in the city want to nominate her for sainthood and a medal."








posted by HCL at 12:02 PM

 
The question posed: "How many dogs does it take to change a light bulb?"

Golden Retriever: The sun is shining, the day is young, we've got our whole lives ahead of us, and you're inside worrying about a stupid burned out bulb?

Border Collie: Just one. And then I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code.

Dachshund: You know I can't reach that stupid lamp!

Rottweiler: Make me.

Boxer: Who cares? I can still play with my squeaky toys in the dark.

Lab: Oh, me, me!!!!! Pleeeeeeeeeze let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Huh? Can I? Pleeeeeeeeeze, please, please, please!

German Shepherd: I'll change it as soon as I've led these people from the dark, check to make sure I haven't missed any, and make just one more perimeter patrol to see that no one has tried to take advantage of the situation.

Jack Russell Terrier: I'll just pop it in while I'm bouncing off the walls and furniture.

Old English Sheep Dog: Light bulb? I'm sorry, but I don't see a light bulb.

Springer Spaniel: Why change it? I can still pee on the carpet in the dark.

Chihuahua: Yo quiero Taco Bulb.

Pointer: I see the burned out bulb, there it is, there it is, right here.....

Greyhound: It isn't moving. Who cares?

Australian Shepherd: First, I'll put all the light bulbs in a little circle.

Poodle: I'll just blow in the Border collie's ear and he'll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry.

The Cat: "Dogs do not change light bulbs. People change light bulbs. So, the real question is: How long will it be before I can expect some light, some dinner, and a massage?"

[Thanks to John, New Jersey]



posted by HCL at 7:40 PM

 
WHO'S PACKING YOUR PARACHUTE?

Charles Plumb was a U.S. Navy jet pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent six years in a communist Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from that experience.

One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at another table came up and said, "You're Plumb! You flew jet fighters in Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!"

"How in the world did you know that?" asked Plumb.

"I packed your parachute," the man replied.

Plumb gasped in surprise and gratitude.

The man pumped his hand and said, "I guess it worked!" Plumb assured him, "It sure did. If your chute hadn't worked, I wouldn't be here today."

Plumb couldn't sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says, "I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform: a white hat, a bib in the back, and bell-bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have seen him and not even said 'Good morning, how are you?' or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor."

Plumb thought of the many hours the sailor had spent on a long wooden table in the bowels of the ship, carefully weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of each chute, holding in his hands each time the fate of someone he didn't know.

Now, Plumb asks his audience, "Who's packing your parachute?" Everyone has someone who provides what they need to make it through the day. Plumb also points out that he needed many kinds of parachutes when his plane was shot down over enemy territory --he needed his physical parachute, his mental parachute, his emotional parachute, and his spiritual parachute. He called on all these supports before reaching safety.

Sometimes in the daily challenges that life gives us, we miss what is really important. We may fail to say hello, please, or thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason.

As you go through this week, this month, this year, recognize people who pack your parachute. I am sending you this as my way of thanking you for your part in packing my parachute !!! And I hope you will send it on to those who have helped pack yours!

Captain J. Charles Plumb



posted by HCL at 12:26 AM