Jim Clarey's Blog by Design

The Holidays Are Coming!

2011-12-19T12:30:00.005-05:00

How is everyone faring? We are fast approaching Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. Aside from the lights and parties, I personally like the music that is played at this time of year. It helps to drown out the screaming a-holes in many Customer Service areas. I have witnessed quite a few shoppers having public melt-downs when a certain sweater is out of stock and I really don't get it. The boys have already opened their presents. The stocking was hung by the chimney with care, but apparently not carefully enough. They will get more before the 25th. CM, PS, EA, BJ and HB have all had their parties and all were a resounding success. Don't drink and drive! I hope that you are enjoying the season and aren't getting to 'wrapped up' in the cha-ching. Peace, prosperity and abundance to all and to all a good night.

...repeating itself

2011-10-27T07:13:00.004-04:00

Can't we all just get along? Not always it seems. On this day in 1838, Missouri governor Lilburn Boggs issued the Extermination Order, by which orders all Mormons had to leave the state or be exterminated. Donny and Marie were working on their first album together as Donny's solo records were slipping in sales. It must have been a tough time for them. Try to embrace everyone for their differences, not similarities. Unless they are being buttheads, then do what is necessary.

"Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected."

Steve Jobs

...moonshine anyone?

2011-10-24T07:45:00.002-04:00

It is sunny, crisp and clear here in Chester County, PA this morning. It is a perfect setting for the filming of a scary movie. On this day in 1952 strange occurrences, including a monster sighting, took place in Flatwoods, West Virginia.The Flatwoods Monster, also known as the Braxton County Monster or the Phantom of Flatwoods, is an alleged unidentified extraterrestrial or cryptid reported to be sighted in the town of Flatwoods in Braxton County, West Virginia. Stories of the creature are an example of a purported close encounter of the third kind. Most agree that it was at least 10 feet tall and that it had a red face which appeared to glow from within, and a green body.Yesterday's Custom Drapery Installation went without a hitch and then the customer took me out to lunch. Including a Bloody Mary. Nothing scary about that!
A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

...am I blue?

2011-10-23T08:43:00.002-04:00

No. I am feeling pretty good. But on this day in 1958, The Smurfs appeared for the first time in the story La flute à six schtroumpfs. Speaking of blue, I am installing Blue and Cream Buffalo Checked Balloon Valances today. After that I will stop by EA's home, shhhhhhh, because it is her Birthday! She will be turning 21 again so alcohol will most definitely be involved in the evening. My Schipperke is on my lap, valiantly trying to add to this blog. If any unsavory words appear, blame it on him please.

"An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one." Charles Cooley

...Rainbow Connection

2011-08-27T08:24:00.003-04:00

Rainbow, rainbow. On this day in 1993 the Rainbow Bridge, connecting Tokyo's Shibaura and the island of Odaiba, was completed. A few years earlier, Akiko completed the album from which this song was taken. We experienced an earthquake earlier this week and now are preparing for effects of a Hurricane. Batten down the hatches, always be aware of your surroundings and wish for that rainbow. And for that pot of gold, no matter the denomination.

...I Feel The Earth Move

2011-08-24T06:37:00.002-04:00

...well, actually I didn't. I was high on a ladder and what I mean by 'high' was elevationally. Two young children were barking orders at the 'Giant', (me) while I installed drapery. With all of the carrying on that I did along with hammering, I missed the entire episode. Give me a 5.5 out of 10 for observational skills, please. I spent the day in K o P and it was nice to be there. I had lunch with the beautiful SK and found both a good luck penny and a quarter on our walk. I, of course bent down to pick them up. Never walk past abundance. On this day in 1967, led by Abbie Hoffman, the Youth International Party temporarily disrupted trading at the NYSE by throwing dollar bills from the viewing gallery, causing trading to cease as brokers scramble to grab them. Have a great day and if you are feeling a little bit shaky, take a deep breath. Everything will be fine. Please keep EA and MW in mind as they are both going through some rough terrain.

...bless the beasts and children III

2011-07-23T21:34:00.004-04:00

...what can I say?
I am not saying that drugs had anything to do with the devastating loss of unique, talented, pop iconic Amy Winehouse, the beehived soul-jazz diva whose self-destructive habits overshadowed a distinctive musical talent, but I am truly saddened by the loss as she was found dead Saturday in her London home, police said. She was 27. "Everyone who was involved with Amy is shocked and devastated. Our thoughts are with her family and friends," said Chris Goodman, a spokesman for her publicity representatives. He said her family will issue a statement when they are ready.
The British singer's record label, Universal, confirmed her death.
"We are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of such a gifted musician, artist and performer," the statement read. "Our prayers go out to Amy's family, friends and fans at this difficult time."
Please add prayers to KK's cousin, who died last evening from a drug overdose. We were going to go to the beach and enjoy the hot sun, but instead, funeral arrangements must be made.
"Just say no!"
I wish that it were that easy.

...clear sailing

2011-07-19T07:09:00.003-04:00

Yesterdays drive into work was fast and clean. It seems that most everyone is out of town. Maybe that or people are taking the Paris metro. Unlikely because it doesn't run from Kimberton to Valley Forge. But on this day in 1900 the first line of the Paris Métro opened for operation, instantly liberation people and enlarging their geographic lives. Anyway, the Paris metros' architecture was influenced by Art Nouveau. The network's sixteen lines are mostly underground and run to 133 miles in length. It is the second largest metro in the world, Moscow being the first. Please send out positive thoughts and prayers to wonderful MW who was just diagnosed with breat cancer.

"I have the body of an eighteen year old. I keep it in the fridge."
Spike Milligan

...pollywhat?

2011-07-12T07:01:00.004-04:00

Flip Wilson, comedian and a regular on 'Laugh-In' often declared that "the Devil made me do it". On this day in 1843 Joseph Smith, Jr., founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, allegedly received a revelation wherein Jesus Christ proclaimed that anyone who rejected polygamy would suffer damnation and would not "be permitted to enter into my glory". Hmmm. To each his own. I would like to see the day when everyone of legal age is able to obtain a marriage license. Somewhat ironically, on this day in 1979, "Disco Demolition Night" at Comiskey Park Chicago, IL was a promotional event that took place during which a crate filled with records was blown up on the field. The event has been characterized as the "emblematic moment" of the anti-disco "crusade". Shown today, "Straight Valance".

"I choose my friends for their good looks, my acquaintances for their good characters, and my enemies for their intellects. A man cannot be too careful in the choice of his enemies."
Oscar Wilde

...out of Africa

2011-07-10T08:06:00.003-04:00

Oftentimes, people claim that I must have been born under a rock. I have a Birth Certificat that proves otherwise, but I have no memory of that day. On this day in 1997 in London, scientists reported the findings of the DNA analysis of a Neanderthal skeleton which supports the "out of Africa theory" of human evolution placing an "African Eve" at 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. They think that is where all humankind originated. Fine with me, as we are all one anyway. I swear that I found another sister on Friday. We are so similar that we even adopted the same, rare kind of dog. Our skin colors do not match, but so what? Maybe they match more than I have ever imagined. Embrace the day, our differences and keep your eyes opened to the fact that we are more similar than we might think. "Black and White" Powder Room shown today.

"Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first."
Mark Twain

...since sliced bread

2011-07-07T06:35:00.003-04:00

When you measure your interpersonal relationships, who can you really trust? They say that if you have 5 friends that are completely trustworthy, you are very lucky. I have more than that so I must be 'Pot o' Gold' special. They also say, "keep your friends close, and your enemies closer" which also makes sense. What a way to live! Is friendship the next best thing to sliced bread or does the bread take second place? That's up to you to decide. On this day in 1928 , sliced bread was sold for the first time by the Chillicothe Baking Company of Chillicothe, Missouri. Hopefully the first person to buy the sliced bread had a bunch of friends with whom he/she shared it.

"Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none."
William Shakespeare

...clearance $ale at Thomasville Furniture!

2011-07-06T06:48:00.004-04:00

By now everyone is sand deep in their Summer season, some still recovering from their 4th of July festivities. Thomasville Furniture has brought many brand new and some slightly owned upholstered pieces to their showroom floors for quick sale and delivery. Even though your minds may be on your current or fast approaching vacations, please keep this in mind. Clearance does not mean unattractive. Sometimes a designer can rush and turn a lovely custom sofa with black leather into a lovely cream sofa with the click of a keypad or a transposed digit. Your Summer home, impending dorm room or your year 'round home may need a piece or two. Check out the Thomasville Furniture and Design Showroom nearest to you, or call any of them for a speedy rundown of what they have on their floor that should be sitting on yours! On this day in 1785, the dollar was unanimously chosen as the monetary unit for the United States. Now is the time to drop a few.

"Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later."
Og Mandino

...independent

2011-07-04T08:24:00.004-04:00

Are you feeling free today? How about independent? The boys have their red/white & blue bandanas on and are raring to go. Aside from the leashes and the fact that they rely on me for their food and water, they are as independent as it comes, and it was not their choice that they are domesticated. The true definition of Independence is "Not governed by a foreign power; self-governing." This definition is followed closely by:
"Free from the influence, guidance, or control of another or others; self-reliant: an independent mind."
"Not determined or influenced by someone or something else; not contingent: a decision independent of the outcome of the study."
Today is the 4th of July, also known as "Independence Day" and is a Federal Holiday in the United States. We adopted something known as the "Declaration of Independence" on this day in 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. I was a mere tot in 1776, but somewhat remember the excitement and pride felt when the document was signed.

Free your minds, be thankful that we have the right to bear arms to protect our independence and, as Kate Perry says,

"Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting throught the wind
Wanting to start again

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards
One blow from caving in

Do you ever feel already buried deep
Six feet under scream
But no one seems to hear a thing

Do you know that there's still a chance for you
Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the Fourth of July

Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!"
You're gonna leave 'em fallin' down-own-own

You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow

Maybe you're reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road "

Food for thought.

"Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing."
Abraham Lincoln

...Merry Christmas!

2011-06-26T08:13:00.004-04:00

Huh? What? Yes. Merry Christmas to one and all. And no, I have not been imbibing. On this day in 1870, the Christian holiday of Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States. Is it too early to begin the countdown? Probably. I helped a friend move yesterday into a quaint town that I know 'does it up' around the Holidays. Won't she be pleasantly surprised! Very Dickensian and charming. Pure magic. Sort of like the Kittysquirrel sitting atop this fence. Tuna or acorns? Why not both. (Thank you MB). It is sunny and cool in Chester County, PA this fine morning and I am out of laundry detergent. This means that the boys and I will have to stop by the river and get all muddy and wet before hitting the store. It only makes sense. Have fun today and if you think that you see a Kittysquirrel on a fence, embrace....don't erase. Magic is everywhere. Just ask Santa.

"A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life."
Charles Darwin

...SAT

2011-06-23T06:33:00.003-04:00

Good day and warning! If you are and educator or a student you may want to stop reading right...now. I say this because you may be up to your eyeballs in recent memories of finals, last day of school and just want to put it all on the back burner until mid-August.
On this day in 1926, The College Board administered the first SAT exam.I was in my mid-teens and was very excited to be taking part in this.
The SAT Reasoning Test (formerly the Scholastic Aptitude Test or Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test for college admissions in the United States. The SAT is owned, published, and developed by the College Board, a not-for-profit organization in the United States. It was formerly developed, published, and scored by the Educational Testing Service which still administers the exam. The test is intended to assess a student's readiness for college.
In the near future we will be given the MAT for those planning on being married, the PAT which is a test designed to determine the suitability of people to bear/rear children, ( please see photo) and the CAT which heavily details proper etiquette when one owns a cell phone. My guess is that those cell phone owners who speak in full voice in movie theatres may want to study a bit harder before tackling this particular test. Don't get me started on the SCAT. NO, it is not what you think. It is the test designed to rate users of shopping carts in grocery stores. It frightens me to think that the majority of these freaks probably drove to the store and are parked near me.
Good luck, good day.
"Good tests kill flawed theories; we remain alive to guess again."
Karl Popper

...ladies first

2011-06-18T07:04:00.002-04:00

It is the gentlemanly thing to do, but I am not referring to simple manners today. On this day in 1873, Susan B. Anthony was fined $100 for attempting to vote in the 1872 presidential election. Also on this day, but in 1928, Aviator Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly in an aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean. Ms. Earhart was a passenger but that doesn't change the fact that she showed bravery and courage. Later, she was the first woman to receive the U.S. Distinguished Flying Cross,awarded for becoming the first aviatrix to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
Will you be flying your own plane today? Let's hope so.
Shown today, 'Cloud Valance' because it seemed appropriate.
"There are two kinds of stones, as everyone knows, one of which rolls."
Amelia Earhart

...food for thought

2011-06-16T05:48:00.003-04:00

"The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best."
Epictetus

On this day in 1903 the Ford Motor Company was incorporated.
On this day in 1911 IBM was founded as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company in Endicott, New York.

How is that for inspiration?

Have a great day.

...in writing

2011-06-12T08:11:00.004-04:00

Maybe blogs today are the diaries of yesteryear. Maybe not. Mine don't ever get too personal. Maybe I don't have too much to share of a personal nature. I know people who have kept every greeting card that was given to them while others capture their life moments in the form of photos. I tend to associate times in my life of importance with music and scents. A song will bring back a memory with clarity as will a specific scent, usually Summer and Autumn smells. Someone once said that everyone's' life is interesting if you leave out the dull parts. However you record your life memories please remember to keep on living your time here to the fullest. On this day in 1942 a young girl named Anne Frank received a diary for her thirteenth birthday. Shown today is a new Dining Table and Chairs from the 'Modern Theory' line, available soon at a Thomasville Showroom near you. Happy Birthday Anne.

'Despite everything, I believe that people are really good at heart.'
Anne Frank

...Meucci Telephone

2011-06-11T07:11:00.003-04:00

What?

No, it wasn't a typo. Bell Telephone had been around for years. Alexander Graham had been credited with this invention. But on this day in 2002, Antonio Meucci was acknowledged as the first inventor of the telephone by the United States Congress.
Meucci was an inventor, best known for developing a voice communication apparatus which several sources credit as the first telephone.Meucci set up a form of voice communication link in his Staten Island home that connected its second floor bedroom to his laboratory. He submitted a patent caveat for his telephone-like device in 1871which he did not renew after 1874. In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell was granted a patent for the electromagnetic transmission of vocal sound by undulatory electric current.
Paperwork, people!
It is raining with thunder here in Chester County, PA. We took an early walk in the woods and caused some type of animal to stir. We are not sure exactly what the animal is as we have never seen something quite like it. Hopefully tomorrow we will see him/her again and maybe make a new friend. Keep the lines of communication open, Meucci, Bell or cell. Or any other mode for that matter.

Shown today, Ernestine.

"Sometimes we stare so long at a door that is closing that we see too late the one that is open."
Alexander Graham Bell

...express yourself

2011-06-05T09:18:00.004-04:00

On this day in 1883 the first regularly scheduled Orient Express departed Paris. This train made it easier for people to leave their car keys on the front counter and relax for a change. The route of the Orient Express changed many times. Although the original Orient Express was simply a normal international railway service, the name has become synonymous with intrigue and luxury travel. The two city names most prominently associated with the Orient Express are Paris and Istanbul, the original endpoints of the timetabled service. I have included a chart for your viewing pleasure regarding driving. This may or may not be true, but statistics depicted in this graph changed instantly as the Orient Express made its first run. Thanks to M B for the chart. Drive safely everyone!

"Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward."
Victor Kiam

...non violence

2011-06-04T06:59:00.003-04:00

On this day in 1957 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous "Power of Nonviolence" speech at the University of California, Berkeley.
Dr. King was an American clergyman, activist, and prominent leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. He is best known for being an iconic figure in the advancement of civil rights in the United States and around the world, using nonviolent methods following the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Today's photo was sent to me from NO.It is the final picture in a series of how, after the tornado in Greensburg , Ks., homeless animals were left to survive. One by one, rescuers found them and led them to a car. All strangers to each other, see how well they got along immediately? Mother Nature can be violent, but we don't have to be.

"Be gentle to all and stern with yourself."
Saint Teresa of Avila

...God Bless the Red, White & Blue

2011-05-30T07:19:00.002-04:00

Today is Memorial Day which is a United States Federal Holiday observed on the last Monday of May. It used to be called Decoration Day and commemorates U.S. Service Members who died while in the military service. First enacted by formerly enslaved African-Americans to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Memorial Day often marks the start of the summer vacation season, and Labor Day its end. To all of the troops that have given their lives for our safety and freedoms, thank you.

"A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd."
Max Lucado

...limitations

2011-05-25T06:45:00.003-04:00

"All man is created equal". Hmmm. Equal in what regard? The trust fund baby vs the homeless orphan? Just asking. I guess that the most important thing is do the best with what he have. Sometimes doing this gives us more. I watched part of a program devoted to comedienne and actress Carole Burnette. Many times comedy comes from tragedy. It sure didn't stop her from becoming a resounding success. On this day in 2001 32-year-old Erik Weihenmayer, of Boulder, Colorado, became the first blind person to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Reach for the stars everyone and if you need strength, ask for it.

"In a gentle way, you can shake the world."
Mohandas Gandhi

...inspired by true incident

2011-05-24T06:56:00.004-04:00

On this day in 1830, "Mary Had a Little Lamb" by Sarah Josepha Hale was published. As a girl, Mary Sawyer (later Mrs. Mary Tyler) kept a pet lamb, which she took to school one day at the suggestion of her brother. A commotion naturally ensued. Mary recalled: "Visiting school that morning was a young man by the name of John Roulstone, a nephew of the Reverend Lemuel Capen, who was then settled in Sterling. It was the custom then for students to prepare for college with ministers, and for this purpose Mr. Roulstone was studying with his uncle. The young man was very much pleased with the incident of the lamb; and the next day he rode across the fields on horseback to the little old schoolhouse and handed me a slip of paper which had written upon it the three original stanzas of the poem...".

Mary had a little lamb,
little lamb, little lamb,
Mary had a little lamb,
whose fleece was white as snow.
And everywhere that Mary went,
Mary went, Mary went,
and everywhere that Mary went,
the lamb was sure to go.

It followed her to school one day
school one day, school one day,
It followed her to school one day,
which was against the rules.
It made the children laugh and play,
laugh and play, laugh and play,
it made the children laugh and play
to see a lamb at school.

And so the teacher turned it out,
turned it out, turned it out,
And so the teacher turned it out,
but still it lingered near,
And waited patiently about,
patiently about, patiently about,
And waited patiently about
till Mary did appear.

"Why does the lamb love Mary so?"
Love Mary so? Love Mary so?
"Why does the lamb love Mary so,"
the eager children cry.
"Why, Mary loves the lamb, you know."
The lamb, you know, the lamb, you know,
"Why, Mary loves the lamb, you know,"
the teacher did reply.

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage."
Lao Tzu

...umbrella

2011-05-19T07:09:00.006-04:00

On this day, 1962 a birthday salute to U.S. President John F. Kennedy took place at Madison Square Garden, New York City. The highlight was Marilyn Monroe's rendition of "Happy Birthday". She wasn't standing over a steam vent but the performance was 'warm' to say the least. President Kennedly replied, after the performance...Kennedy responded to her performance with the remark, "Thank you. I can now retire from politics after having had 'Happy Birthday' sung to me in such a sweet, wholesome way." Odd the way that things can happen. My thoughts go out to the Kennedy clan today. Maybe the old adage 'the more the merrier' might fit. The lawns and gardens in Chester County, PA should look lush in a few days as the rains have been falling almost ocnstantly. If you have a friend or family member in need, be their umbrella. You never know when you may need yours and find that you have left it in the closet. Oh, and if you are going to be an umbrella, be the best. "Louis Vuitton Umbrella" shown.
"A man sooner or later discovers that he is the master-gardener of his soul, the director of his life."
James Allen

...using your head

2011-05-12T15:29:00.000-04:00

By Dennis Prager of Colorado.

A Speech Every American High School Principal Should Give.... By DennisPrager.

To the students and faculty of our high school:I am your new principal, and honored to be so. There is no greater calling than to teach young people.I would like to apprise you of some important changes coming to our school. I am making these changes because I am convinced that most of the ideas that have dominated public education in America have worked against you, against your teachers and against our country.First, this school will no longer honor race or ethnicity. I could not care less if your racial makeup is black, brown, red, yellow or white. I could not care less if your origins are African, Latin American, Asian or European, or if your ancestors arrived here on the Mayflower or on slave ships. The only identity I care about, the only one this school will recognize, is your individual identity -- your character, your scholarship, your humanity. And the only national identity this school will care about is American.This is an American public school, and American public schools we recreated to make better Americans. If you wish to affirm an ethnic,racial or religious identity through school, you will have to go elsewhere. We will end all ethnicity, race and non-American nationality-based celebrations. They undermine the motto of America ,one of its three central values -- e pluribus Unum, "from many, one."And this school will be guided by America 's values. This includes allafter-school clubs. I will not authorize clubs that divide students based on any identities. This includes race, language, religion, sexual orientation or whatever else may become in vogue in society divided by political correctness.Your clubs will be based on interests and passions, not blood, ethnic,racial or other physically defined ties. Those clubs just cultivate narcissism -- an unhealthy preoccupation with the self -- while the purpose of education is to get you to think beyond yourself. So we will have clubs that transport you to the wonders and glories of art, music,astronomy, languages you do not already speak, carpentry and more. If the only extracurricular activities you can imagine being interested in are those based on ethnic, racial or sexual identity, that means that little outside of yourself really interests you.Second, I am uninterested in whether English is your native language. My only interest in terms of language is that you leave this school speaking and writing English as fluently as possible. The English language has united America 's citizens for over 200 years, and it will unite us at this school. It is one of the indispensable reasons this country of immigrants has always come to be one country. And if you leave this school without excellent English language skills, I would be remiss in my duty to ensure that you will be prepared to successfully compete in the American job market. We will learn other languages here-- it is deplorable that most Americans only speak English --but if you want classes taught in your native language rather than in English, this is not your school.Third, because I regard learning as a sacred endeavor, everything in this school will reflect learning's elevated status. This means, among other things, that you and your teachers will dress accordingly. Many people in our society dress more formally for Hollywood events than for church or school. These people have their priorities backward.Therefore, there will be a formal dress code at this school.Fourth, no obscene language will be tolerated anywhere on this school's property -- whether in class, in the hallways or at athletic events. If you can't speak without using the f-word, you can't speak. By obscene language I mean the words banned by the Federal Communications Commission, plus epithets such as "Nigger," even when used by one black student to address another black, or "bitch," even when addressed by a girl to a girlfriend. It is my intent that by the time you leave this school, you will be among the few your age to instinctively distinguish between the elevated and the degraded, the holy and the obscene.Fifth, we will end all self-esteem programs. In this school, self-esteem will be attained in only one way -- the way people attained it until decided otherwise a generation ago -- by earning it. One immediate consequence is that there will be one valedictorian, not eight.Sixth, and last, I am reorienting the school toward academics and away from politics and propaganda. No more time will be devoted to scaring you about smoking and caffeine, or terrifying you about sexual harassment or global warming. No more semesters will be devoted to condom wearing and teaching you to regard sexual relations as only or primarily a health issue. There will be no more attempts to convince you that you are a victim because you are not white, or not male, or not heterosexual or not Christian. We will have failed if any one of you graduates this school and does not consider him or herself inordinately lucky -- to be alive and to be an American.Now, please stand and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of our country. As many of you do not know the words, your teachers will hand them out to you.

Thank you Nancy O. for sending this to me.

...industry resonates

2011-05-10T18:14:00.008-04:00

The Industrial Revolution was a period from the 18th to the 19th century where major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and technology had a profound effect on the socioeconomic and cultural conditions of the times. It began in the United Kingdom, then subsequently spread throughout Europe, North America, and eventually the world. The development of all-metal machine tools in the first two decades of the 19th century facilitated the manufacture of more production machines for manufacturing in other industries. Everything old is new again as shown in Thomasvilles' latest offering, appropriately entitled 'Reinventions.' Redecorate with panache and sensibility. Shown are a few new items including an Apprentice Adjustable Table, a Shop Floor Chest and an Aperture Mirror. Redo an entire space or pick and choose a handful of these iconic and interesting pieces to thrust industry into your home or office. Don't forget your Summer House too! Mixing these metal and wood pieces and integrating seaside colorings with be just what James Hargreaves ordered.

...which way is up?

2011-04-30T12:16:00.003-04:00

On this day in 1925 automaker Dodge Brothers, Inc was sold to Dillon, Read & Company for $146 million plus $50 million for charity. On this day in 2009 Chrysler automobile company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Topsy turvy. Keep on truckin' or autoin' and always give it your best. Please give a shout out to RY who is feeling under the weather. I recommended a double vodka which made her feel even more 'under'.

"My own business always bores me to death; I prefer other people's.

Oscar Wilde

...let it Snow

2011-04-28T06:58:00.003-04:00

Phoebe Snow, whose signature hit, “Poetry Man,” established her as a leading light of the singer-songwriter movement and whose swooping vocal acrobatics transcended musical genres, died on Tuesday in Edison, N.J. She was 60. She named herself after a railroad car, had a daughter who was born with severe brain damage and befriended Karen Carpenter when Karen was in New York battling anorexia nervosa. A voice given to her by God, she is best known for the above mentioned song but my favorite track is Ms. Snows' "If I Can Just Get Through The Night" where she takes on the roll of an addict. Rest In Peace Phoebe. People get ready, there's a train a comin'. Phoebe Snow has reached her final destination.

"All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on."
Henry Ellis

...growing pains

2011-04-26T06:47:00.004-04:00

Last night we wanted the air conditioner on since it was unusually warm. All that I needed to do was to turn a switch to cool the home. I also knew that when the electricity bill arrived, I could pay it. How simple, wonderful and blessed am I. Mankind has always been searching for sources of energy to keep things rolling and sometimes stuff happens while we try to grow. On this day in 1986, the world's worst nuclear accident occurred at the Chernobyl plant in the Soviet Union. An explosion and fire in the No. 4 reactor sent radioactivity into the atmosphere; at least 31 Soviets died immediately. Finding and keeping ways to keep us energized are of paramount importance so we keep on trying, perfecting and growing. Nuclear accidents,common mode failures,dam failures,oil spills are all unfortunately part of growing pains. Let's appreciate the sources of energy that we have and do our best to use them wisely. Pictured today is my favorite energy drink. It also comes in sugar free FBomb and citrus, both flavors delicious, one being much more fun to say out loud.

"God has cared for these trees, saved them from drought, disease, avalanches, and a thousand tempests and floods. But he cannot save them from fools."
John Muir

...before and after

2011-04-25T06:47:00.007-04:00

It used to be that people could drive their cars without a license plate, before this day in 1901 when New York became the first U.S. state to require them. After that day, when we have a dastardly deed to perform requiring a vehicle, we need to mud pack the plate to remain anonymous.Ahhh, change. MM, SS and I spent part of last week in Leesburg, VA assisting in the set-up of a Thomasville concept store. This type of store focuses on many rooms of a similar nature in one shared space, i.e. bedrooms together, Dining Rooms together, and so on. It was fun, artistically challenging and also required physical and mental strength. Luckily God gave it to me and work got done. Before we left, the place was a scattering of furniture and accessories. After we left, there was more of a rhyme and reason to the whole setting. Have fun today, work and study hard and have your martini after everything has been completed, not before.

"Change means that what was before wasn't perfect. People want things to be better."
Esther Dyson

...chocolate alert!

2011-04-24T07:39:00.003-04:00

Happy Easter everyone. Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again. Christ probably liked chocolate as much as many of us do. He was a man of taste, a good heart and undying faith. There was a close call early this morning tho'. (Please see photo attached) My darling Grandneice was on her annual Easter Egg Hunt, when lo and behold, she saw the Easter Bunny hiding eggs! Rather than attempting to cover her findings, she took the honest approach and walked right up to the icon, introduced herself and was prepared for whatever result might be. As usual, they became fast friends. He is now on of her 'people'. Speaking of chocolate, on this day in 1907 Hersheypark, founded by Milton S. Hershey for the exclusive use of his employees, was opened. Have a great day, give praise for all that you have and if you run into an icon either physically or spiritually, give him/her some love.

"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant."
Robert Louis Stevenson

...no news is good news

2011-04-18T08:02:00.003-04:00

A song by Anne Murray popped into my head this morning. I awoke well before the sunrise and went out to my deck with the boys to make sure that the bird feeders were full. The squirrels were already up, the birds were singing and the trees are all in bloom. Perfect. We never know what lies around the corner. That is why we have faith. Jump into your day with hope, no matter what things are nagging at your core. On this day in 1930 BBC Radio announced that there was no news on that day. Anne Murray would have loved that! "A Little Good News" by Anne Murray. More good news is the "Reinventions" line coming to a Thomasville store near you in the very near future.

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." William James

...louie, louie

2011-04-11T07:00:00.004-04:00

Today is International "Louie, Louie" day! Everyone uses this annual opportunity to celebrate the song that has been called the greatest party song of all time. It has been recorded more times than any other rock song in history and was very nearly declared the official state song of Washington. J.Edgar Hoover had this song analyzed, fearing that it had sinister content. He and many others missed, however, someone screaming the F word at :53. on the original recording. Work hard today, listen to the music, and try not to use the F word if you are laying down tracks for a song that will stand the test of time. This day in 1954 is considered to be the most boring day since 1900 according to the True Knowledge Answer Engine. Perhaps they weren't partying to "Louie, Louie!" Hold on a sec! Mother Goose is at my front door. BRB. I'm back. She gave me a post it and asked me to blog for her:

To market, to market, to buy a fat pig,

Home again, home again, jiggety- jig;

To market, to market, to buy a fat hog;

Home again, home again, jiggety-jog;

To market, to market, to choose Home Decor,

We'll take these, we'll take that, of this we'll take four!

To market, to market, to buy a plum bun,

Home again, home again, market is done.

"A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions." Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

...the power of one

2011-04-10T07:02:00.003-04:00

Never underestimate your power. We have chances everyday, many times per day, to make ours and the lives of others better. Letting someone in front of you at rush hour, waving a friendly hand when someone f*cks up on the highway, rather than giving them the finger, holding a door for anyone and more. Put these behaviors into action, and watch how the Universe gives back three fold. If you already do this, you know what I mean. If you have been an a**hole for years and are just beginning to try this method, it may take time for things to regain their balance. Give it a try. The power of one leads to the power of many. On this day in 1388, despite being outnumbered 16 to 1, forces of the Old Swiss Confederacy were victorious over the Archduchy of Austria in the Battle of Näfels. I was 12 at the time and somewhat remember this, being in awe of the David and Goliath concept in action. I was also texting a friend at the same time and missed most of this.

"Either you run the day or the day runs you." Jim Rohn

...what's in a name?

2011-04-09T06:53:00.004-04:00

What is in a name? Firstly, it was not your choice, unless you marched to the courthouse as soon as you could walk and demanded changes. Some names conjure up images, others seem pretty plain. Mary means "wished for child". Tom stands for honesty. Brian means "Noble" Sophia is the Greek word for wisdom Michael means "God like" I assume that Michele does also, as this name is a derivative of the aforementioned name. Ashley means "Ash Tree Cleaning". Lovely. On this day in 1904 "Longacre Square" in Midtown Manhattan was renamed "Times Square" after The New York Times. Sometimes money has a meaning also. Shown today is "Beau" which means "beautiful" in french. My nephew named him because the man is both French and beautiful. So is my nephew for that matter!

"A lot of people get impatient with the pace of change." James Levine

...works of art

2011-04-08T06:54:00.004-04:00

We are all works of art in our own, unique way. Embrace your qualities and embrace the qualities in others. Even if some of those qualities annoy you to no end.

1. Free your heart from hatred.

2. Free your mind from worries.

3. Live simply.

4. Give more.

5. Expect less.

6. Play mini golf.

On this day in 1820 The Venus de Milo was discovered on the Aegean island of Melos. The sculpture was created at some time between 130 and 100 BC, and is believed to depict Aphrodite (Venus to the Romans) the Greek goddess of love and beauty. It is made of marble, slightly larger than life size at 6' 8" high, and its arms and original plinth have been lost. Anyone holding these missing pieces, please contact the Louvre.

"A creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others." Ayn Rand

...Floor Sample Sale Thomasville!

2011-04-07T16:05:00.005-04:00

Thomasville is introducing some fab new collections and they will be arriving in stores soon. Many classic Thomasville case goods and upholstery pieces on showroom floors are reduced currently. They have to make room for new arrivals! Stop by your nearest showroom and bring in your measurements. Shown today is a teaser of the new 'Affinia Collection.' Even tho' we are all getting ready to improve our outdoors, please don't miss this opportunity to focus on our interiors!

"Dreams are true while they last, and do we not live in dreams?" Alfred Lord Tennyson

...chew on this

2011-04-01T06:50:00.006-04:00

Today is the day when we let out the 'li'l prankster' in us! April Fools! Innocent hoaxes, tricks and other clever ideas will make people laugh, puzzle and perhaps even attempt to repay you! Remember to keep things light and fun. Here are a few of my favorite April Fool pranks.

1) Hot-wire your ex's car and drive it to a vacant parking lot. Preferably to another city; better yet, another state.

2)Tape magnets to the bottom of an empty coffee cup, and attach it to the top of your car. Laugh at all the people who frantically try to get your attention as you drive by. This is even funnier if you are the proud parent of an infant. Attach magnets to the bottom of the car carrier, set the little dumpling on the roof of your vehicle and drive like mad.

3)If the victim has a phone with a hook that presses down when the handset is in the cradle, tape it down. When he or she answers a call it will keep ringing. Make sure to dial them incessantly to insure many calls and much frustration.

4)Has your victim been working on an important document on their computer? Carefully hide the document in a safe place, then create a fake document with the same name. Fill the document with foul language or a funny story. At the bottom put "April Fool's!" Or don't, and see if the document gets emailed to Corporate!

5) While we are on the subject of computers, this one is sure to touch a nerve. If the victim uses Microsoft Word, go into the victim's computer and change the auto-correct feature so it misspells common words. Just open Word, choose "Auto-Correct Options" from the Tools menu, and have it replace common words like "the" and "and" with wacky words like "fuckhead" or "asshole." Be creative.

On this day in 1891 The Wrigley Company was founded in Chicago, Illinois. Hey, does that come in pepper flavor?

"A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life." William Arthur Ward

...druggist

2011-03-29T06:58:00.004-04:00

"Take two and call me in the morning." That is probably what Dr. Pemberton said after this day in 1886, when on this day in 1866 he brewed the first batch of Coca-Cola in a backyard in Atlanta, Georgia. Coca-Cola has had many successful ad campaigns over the years, including one that became a hit 'pop' ( get it) song for The New Seekers entitled, "I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing". Coke is also featured heavily on American Idol, perhaps in homage to that ad. Have a Coke and a smile everyone, or skip the Coke and just smile.

"A #2 pencil and a dream can take you anywhere." Joyce A. Myers

....drive and be driven

2011-03-26T06:51:00.004-04:00

If you drive, you probably remember the new found freedom that it gave you. On this day in 1934 the driving test was introduced in the United Kingdom.It must be a very different test than the one here in the United States. I experience all kinds of dare-devilry on the roads and am quite sure that these instructions were not found in that handbook. Baby, you can drive my car? Not with those roadway antics. Also on this day, but in 1942,the first female prisoners arrived at Auschwitz. Removing all of their freedoms, and in most cases, their lives, this was one of the worst acts in world history. Hmmm, come to think of it, maybe that a**hole who made a left turn from the right lane was not so bad after all. I wish that he were an anomaly, but whatever. Pictured today in an anemone.
"Hate is more lasting than dislike."
Adolf Hitler

...I can hear music

2011-03-18T06:54:00.004-04:00

Vocalist Kathy Troccoli gives me goosebumps. Whether she is singing religious or secular tunes, she has a unique voice that does it for me. Music has always been my sanctuary, and I never take that gift for granted. On this day in 2003 British Sign Language was recognized as an official British language. There are 125,000 deaf adults in the UK who use BSL plus an estimated 20,000 children. The language makes use of space and involves movement of the hands, body, face and head. Many thousands of people who are not deaf also use BSL, as hearing relatives of deaf people, sign language interpreters or as a result of other contact with the British deaf community. If you cannot hear music, make your own kind. If you can hear the music, be thankful and give this a listen. It is Kathy Troccoli and the Beach Boys singing, and what else, "I Can Hear Music."

"All the world is full of suffering. It is also full of overcoming."
Helen Keller

...golden

2011-03-13T16:44:00.003-04:00

Nolah has grown tired of whacking alligators and has taken a brief respite. Smiling for the camera, she is golden. On this day in 2008 gold prices on the New York Mercantile Exchange hit $1,000 per ounce for the first time. A picture is worth a thousand words...this one is priceless.

"I'm three" a small 3 year old child said upon meeting Nolah

"I AM THREE" Nolah

...case closed.

...how to handle an abusive phone call

2011-03-13T08:14:00.003-04:00

Handling Abusive Phone Calls 101

•1 Try to calm the idiot in the initial phases of the phone call. Once it escalates you will have to follow your company's policies. Many companies do not allow you to call the person a fucking moron. If they start right out of the gate acting like a prick, hold the phone in the air to get others to witness their asinine behavior.

•2 Some companies allow you to hang up as long as you warn the person first with, "If you continue to call me a fucking faggot, I am going to hang up." The next four-letter word spoken, or six-letter word, hang up. The person may call back. Ask if they are prepared to be calm. If they say they are, remind them again, you will hang up if they repeat the foul language and then continue your discussion. Usually, one hang up is enough. If the person is married to an asshole, a second phone call will definitely arrive.

•3 Sometimes, the angry person will ask to speak to your Supervisor. Again, follow company procedure, but in most places, you will refer the call, explain a little of what has transpired then pass the call through. Once a Supervisor is on the line the foul language usually ends.

•4 If your company has a policy of you will complete the call no matter what the person calls you, you must remain calm. When foul language is used, just become silent. Do not respond in anger. Simply, do not respond. This usually quiets the foul language. Sometimes, nothing works and you just must get through the conversation. Repeating back what they have said such as, "you said that I am a fucking moron because I did not approve your application, is that correct?" may stop the foul language. But use this method as a last resort and be sure you are perfectly calm as you repeat the sentence. It is often good, at this point, to Google the callers phone number or perform a 'Reverse Phone Lookup'. In many cases this will provide you with their home address. You can take it from there. Wearing black and arriving after dark is best.
On this day in 2005 Terry Ratzmann shot and killed six members of the Living Church of God and the minister at Sheraton Inn in Brookfield, Wisconsin before killing himself. Whether he was provoked by an abusive phone caller I do not know.

"Nobody can give you wiser advice than yourself."
Marcus Tullius Cicero

...it's not nice to fool with Mother Nature

2011-03-11T19:34:00.004-05:00

Chiffon Margerine had an excellent ad campaign in the 1970's. " it's not nice to fool with Mother Nature" and it is still relevant today. Mother Nature is no one to f*ck with! We may worry about a raise, whether gas prices will escalate or if our hair looks good in wind. When reality hits, those things really don't matter as much. Be kind to your friends, work hard, make time for fun and celebrate the abundance that you have right now, and will have in the future. I am not minimizing life's concerns, because they are day to day real. Maybe I am suggesting a quick attitude adjustment. Oh, yeah, on this day in 1888 " The Great Blizzard of 1888" began along the eastern seaboard of the United States, shutting down commerce and killing more than 400.

"Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature's inexorable imperative."
H. G. Wells

...a phone call away

2011-03-10T19:09:00.004-05:00

There once was a backstabbing b*tch,
Who had an incurable itch.
It came back and bit her,
She knew not what hit her,
The Universe sure knows how to pitch!

On this day in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell made the first successful telephone call by saying "Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you."
Left out of the History books was their long lasting relationship. To think that it was only a phone call away.

"Don't be afraid of missing opportunities. Behind every failure is an opportunity somebody wishes they had missed."
....the brilliant Lily Tomlin

...imitation is the

2011-03-09T06:47:00.003-05:00

Have you ever seen a photograph is an Interior Design magazine and thought, "I have to own that room?" On this day in 1959 the Barbie doll made its debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York. The story gets more interesting tho'. There once was a German cartoon character named Lilli, created by Reinhard Beuthien for the tabloid Bild-Zeitung in Hamburg, Germany. In 1953 Bild-Zeitung decided to market a Lilli doll and contacted Max Weissbrodt from the toy company O&M Hausser in Neustadt/Coburg, Germany. Weissbrodt designed the prototype of the doll, which was on sale from 1955 to 1964, when Mattel acquired the rights to the doll and German production stopped. Pictured today is 'Lilli', not Barbie.

"I don't have to be an imitation of a white woman that Hollywood sort of hoped I'd become. I'm me, and I'm like nobody else."
Lena Horne

...cologne

2011-03-06T09:39:00.004-05:00

My favorite cologne is Vetiver Bourbon, not that you asked. It has been my favorite for years and years. Vetiver is a grass from tropical India and this cologne is fused with oakmoss, patchouli and amber which I find earthy and pleasant. I have yet to have someone approach me and tell me otherwise. Interestingly, on this day in 1945 cologne was captured by American Troops. I have Googled and cannot find which cologne it was, or if it was many different scents and I find this act of violence reprehensible. My plan is to keep on wearing it and hope that I don't too get captured. Have fun, use good sense and keep the faith.

"Common sense is genius dressed in its working clothes."
Ralph Waldo Emerson

...revolution

2011-03-05T07:13:00.003-05:00

A revolver is a repeating firearm that has a cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing. On this day in 1836 Samuel Colt made the first production-model revolver, the .34-caliber. I find this model to be quite attractive in design. I am not at all for violence, but I am all about protection. If one is going to protect oneself, why not do it in style? Black goes with virtually everything. Chester County, PA is slowly creeping out of a snowy, cold Winter and signs of Spring are showing themselves nicely. Have fun today, protect yourself and those around you and keep thinking that the best will happen. That's how it works.

"A people free to choose will always choose peace."
Ronald Reagan

...sex, drugs & rock and roll

2011-03-03T07:02:00.005-05:00

Shown today is beautiful Nolah, whacking at a li'l cutie in the alligator infested waters of SC! She lives a clean, happy life. Not like others! Please read on...

Sex: On this day in 1873 censorship in the United States was alive and well as The U.S. Congress enacted the Comstock Law, which made it illegal to send any "obscene, lewd, or lascivious" books through the mail.
Drugs: On this day in 2005 the Mayerthorpe Incident occurred when James Roszko murdered four Royal Canadian Mounted Police constables during a drug bust at his property in Rochfort Bridge, Alberta. He then committed suicide.
Rock and Roll: On this day in 1951 Jackie Brenston, with Ike Turner and his band, recorded "Rocket 88", often cited as "the first rock and roll record", at Sam Phillips' recording studios in Memphis, Tennessee.
There you have it folks! What will you do with this day?
"It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one."
George Washington

...rock and roll heaven

2011-03-02T06:50:00.005-05:00

On this day in 1950, Karen Carpenter, my favorite singer was born. On this day a year prior, the first automatic street light was installed in New Milford, Conn. Karen Carpenter was born in Connecticut and when she decided to record a solo album, her favorite singer at that time was Donna Summer. "Hot Stuff" and "Bad Girls" by Summer, were high on the charts. That wasn't even 6 degrees of separation, if it made any sense at all! Happy Birthday Karen! I hope your Heavenly Jam Session rocks.

"It's kinda nice to be remembered by your peers and your fans, because you can achieve a lot of success and be a creep too! But we try to be nice, just normal people."
Karen Carpenter

...lions and lambs

2011-03-01T06:53:00.003-05:00

We have all heard the old weather saying "March comes in like a Lion and goes out like a Lamb." The winds of March encourage an exploration of contrasts. From fierce gales to gentle breezes, pelting rains to soft mists, March is the time of transition from winter to spring.
Lions and lambs also invite comparison. Lions are called the king of beasts, and are presumably the predators at the top of the food chain. Lambs blindly follow the herd and can easily become the lion's prey.
Are you a lion or a lamb? My guess is that it depends on the situation. Enjoy the first day of March, and be the kind of lion or the kind of lamb that people want to be around. It makes for a much happier day.
"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go." - Oscar Wilde

...embrace difference

2011-02-24T06:54:00.005-05:00

Hello.
On this day in 1920 the Nazi Party was founded. As we already know, Nazi ideology stressed the failures of capitalism, communism, economic liberalism, and democracy. Followers supported the "racial purity of the German people" and that of other Northwestern Europeans, and claimed itself as the protector of Germany from Jewish influence and corruption. The Nazis persecuted those they perceived as either race enemies ,that is "life unworthy of living". This included Jews, Slavs, Roma, along with Communists, homosexuals, the mentally and physically disabled, and others. The persecution reached its climax when the party and the German state which it controlled organized the systematic murder of approximately six million Jews and six million other people from the other targeted groups, in what has become known as the Holocaust. Hitler's desire to build a German empire through expansionist policies led to the outbreak of World War II in Europe.
Have a good day, work hard and if you aren't evolved enough to embrace differences, read a book, get out of your tiny environment and experience what is out there.

"The sincere friends of this world are as ship lights in the stormiest of nights."
Giotto di Bondone

...an onion a day keeps the...

2011-02-22T19:21:00.003-05:00

Thanks to the fantastic MB, I have some great information for you regarding health. It is inexpensive and has proven, for years, to be quite effective. Onions. Yes, onions. Please read and then stop by your nearest produce stand and report back. I would love to hear your opinions on onions.

In 1919 when the flu killed 40 million people, there was a Doctor who
visited many farmers to see if he could help them combat the flu. Many of
the farmers and their family had contracted it, and many died.
The doctor came upon one farmer, and to his surprise, everyone in the
household was very healthy. When the doctor asked what the farmer was doing
that was different, the wife replied that she had placed an unpeeled onion
in a dish in the rooms of the home . The doctor couldn't believe it and asked if he could have one of the onions and place it under the microscope. She gave him one, and when he did this, he
did find the flu virus in the onion. It obviously absorbed the bacteria, therefore, keeping the family healthy.
Please try this. The garlic that I wear around my neck has been working for years to rid myself of those pesky Vampires. ( I remove the garlic when a hot one approaches me) but still,
it is an onion. Everything has a purpose on this earth, and not just to create offensive breath.

"America's health care system is in crisis precisely because we systematically neglect wellness and prevention."
Tom Harkin

...thievery at its finest

2011-02-21T19:27:00.002-05:00

Here is an alert for your safety and self preservation. This was given to me by my beautiful friend SKK and it needs to be shared and read. I am not peddling interior fashions this time but peddling something way more important. Firstly, as I always do, on this day in 2006 at least six men stage Britain's biggest robbery ever, stealing £53m (about $92.5 million or 78€ million) from a Securitas depot in Tonbridge, Kent.
'WARNING FROM POLICE’
BEWARE OF PAPER ON THE BACK WINDOW OF YOUR VEHICLE!
NEW WAY TO DO CARJACKINGS
Heads up everyone!
You walk across the parking lot, unlock your car and get inside.
You start the engine and shift into reverse.
When you look into the rear view mirror to back out of your parking space,
you notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window.
You shift into Park, unlock your doors, and jump out of your car to remove the object that is obstructing your view.
When you reach the back of your car, the carjackers appear out of nowhere, jump into your car and take off.
Your home and your whole identity are now probably compromised!
If you see a piece of paper stuck to your back
window, just drive away.
Remove the paper later.

...mind over matter

2011-02-19T07:03:00.003-05:00

Hello. Two of my favorite things happened in history on this day. In 1985 artificial heart recipient William J. Schroeder became the first patient to leave hospital. Alive. And a few years prior, in 1878, Thomas Edison patented the phonograph. I think it's very important to have a heart; a strong one at that. It is also paramount to have music. What two better things could have happened on this day in history? Ok, so Vodka wasn't invented, but I would be pushing it at that point. Have fun today, strengthen your heart both physically and spiritually and dance if you get a moment. Make sure you get a moment.
'Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.' Mark Twain

...when cows fly

2011-02-18T07:10:00.003-05:00

I have a piggy bank that is actually a cow/piggy bank that I love. Don't ask me who his parents are. That is none of my business. He sits high on a kitchen shelf but has yet to fly. On this day in 1930, Elm Farm Ollie became the first cow to fly in a fixed-wing aircraft and also the first cow to be milked in an aircraft. His buddies now refer to it as the mile high club and many are trying to join. We have to work within our physical limitations but that doesn't mean that they can hold us back. If cows can fly, we can do anything, not to slight Ollie. Spread your wings today. It feels great.

"Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again."
James Cook

...the shot felt 'round the world

2011-02-17T07:06:00.003-05:00

I visited a dear friend in the hospital last evening after a grueling day at work. Let's hope that the senna in her all natural herbal remedies has not done permanent damage to her liver. I returned home but it was too late for a Martini. At least I had a choice as to whether or not to make one. On this day in 1933 the Blaine Act ended Prohibition in the United States, having been sponsored by Wisconsin senator John J. Blaine. Thank you JJ. "Senna has been linked to liver toxicity. There is a report of a 52 year old woman who ingested one liter of senna tea per day for over three years. She developed acute liver failure and kidney impairment requiring intensive care therapy. Long-term use of anthraquinones has been linked to the development of colorectal growths (adenomas) and cancer.
"Believe you can and you're halfway there.
Theodore Roosevelt

...Happy YouTube 2U

2011-02-15T06:56:00.003-05:00

Six years ago today, YouTube, the Internet site on which videos may be shared and viewed by others, was launched in the United States.In November of the following year, YouTube, LLC was bought by Google Inc. for $1.65 billion, and now operates as a subsidiary of Google. That's a tidy sum! Forever has it changed the way that people behave in public, and sometimes in private! Imagine picking your nose in what you think is a private moment, just to have it hit YouTube and several million people view you. Have fun, work hard and if you have the feeling that someone is taping you, well, good luck with that. "Fredericksburg China Cabinet", in part, shown today. Dusty Springfield sings "In Private".

"All violations of essential privacy are brutalizing."
Katharine Fullerton Gerould

...Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T06:56:00.004-05:00

For those who sent flowers, chocolates and cards hooray! Maybe you can send this link to your loved ones also. Stay safe, work hard and be smart.

"I know in my heart that man is good. That what is right will always eventually triumph. And there's purpose and worth to each and every life."
Ronald Reagan

...Cupid, draw back your Porshe

2011-02-13T08:33:00.003-05:00

In Roman mythology, Cupid (Latin cupido, meaning "desire") is the god of desire, affection and erotic love. He is the son of goddess Venus and god Mars.
In popular culture, Cupid is frequently shown shooting his bow to inspire romantic love, often as an icon of Valentine's Day. He is now in the current culture the personification of love and courtship in general.
Well, tomorrow is the big day. Valentines Day is an annual commemoration held on February 14 celebrating love and affection between intimate companions. If you are not intimate, save your money on chocolates, cards and flowers. The day is named after Christian martyr, Saint Valentine. Another Saintly act happened on this day in 1992. Jose Canseco repeatedly rammed his Porsche into wife Esther's BMW. I am guessing that there were no flowers nor chocolates given the following morning.

"Before we make love my husband takes a pain killer."
Joan Rivers

...scream

2011-02-12T06:59:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine just emailed me a poem after I sent him a lovely limerick.

I will a tale unfold whose lightest word
Would harrow up thy soul, freeze thy young blood,
Make thy two eyes, like stars, start from their
spheres,
Thy knotted and combined locks to part
And each particular hair to stand on end,
Like quills upon the fretful porpentine: (Hamlet)

Well, on this day in 1994 four men broke into the National Gallery of Norway and stole Edward Munch's iconic painting The Scream. Edward Munch was a Norwegian Symbolist painter, printmaker and an important forerunner of expressionistic art. His best-known composition, The Scream, was part of a series The Frieze of Life, in which Munch explored the themes of love, fear, death, melancholia, and anxiety. Don't we all? I had a handful of people scream at me yesterday for things that had nothing to do with me. I had to ask one person to stop yelling at me in person as I was being chewed out on the phone by another. When I asked her to wait, she claimed that I was the rude one. Happy days, happy nights and no screams.

"All the things one has forgotten scream for help in dreams."
Elias Canetti

...cat that chewed your new shoes

2011-02-11T07:02:00.002-05:00

My friend is dating a hearing impaired guy and now is somewhat adept at 'signing.' Does she understand everything he 'says'? Probably not, but we do the best that we can. Honestly, neither do most of us when it comes to perfect communication. When someone misinterprets us and we offend, hopefully that subject will come up so that we can mend fences. On this day in 1941 the first gold record was presented to Glenn Miller for "Chattanooga Choo Choo". It had nothing to do with shoes. Work hard, listen, communicate to the best of your abilities and please keep in mind 'signing', especially when driving. Kidding. "Staghorn Pillow" shown today.
"A good marriage would be between a blind wife and a deaf husband."
Michel de Montaigne

...extinguish

2011-02-10T06:59:00.003-05:00

After a long stint of snow, sleet and ice it is supposed to get warmer this weekend here in Chester County, PA. Hot enough for you? No, but above freezing will be an utter delight. I am not looking for the flames of Hell per se, just a little warmth.Flames can be hard to control. Believe me, I have known a few flamers in my life and speak from experience.I also had a small kitchen fire with Buffy many years ago and found that a way to control a small fire is with an extinguisher which, of course, was patented on this day in 1863. I keep one in my kitchen due to my style of cooking. I also keep one in each vehicle due to my driving style. I wish that everyone reading this blog would go out and buy at least one today. For your sake and for the sake of those out of control flamers that can pop up at the most inopportune times.

"Burn baby, burn" Trammps

...bonfire of the vanities

2011-02-07T07:10:00.004-05:00

Way back in 1497, people were passing judgement on what was and was not considered moral. Friar Girolamo Savonarola was one of those people. On this day in 1497 the bonfire of the vanities occurred in which supporters of Friar Savonarola burned thousands of objects like cosmetics, art, and books in Florence, Italy. Maybe they should have called him Fire Savonarola. The heat from this bonfire caused some make-up wearing opponents to smudge. This is when Max factor introduced leak-proof mascara. There is a reason for everything. Live your lives, don't intentionally hurt anyone or anything and celebrate the differences. If you have a book to burn, donate it instead. It may be just the tool that someone else needs to make a positive change in their life. Shown today is a Vanity Table and Chair, available in many fabrics. Glass top included, bonfire not.

"Censorship is the height of vanity." Martha Graham

...fumar

2011-02-06T07:26:00.003-05:00

Where there's smoke...well, where there isn't is in Federal Buildings and most restaurants.On this day in 1987 no-smoking rules took effect in federal buildings. Many had been complaining for years about second hand pot smoke. People claimed that it made their brains foggy and were soon craving Doritos and Tastykake treats. I was never one to smoke pot, but to each his own. Since that day, no one could light up a doobie and smoke in the courtyards of federal buildings and within 25 feet of doorways and intake ducts on the outside of federal buildings. So far, I don't think that there is a law prohibiting martinis from being sipped but I cannot verify this. Have fun, do things in moderation and remember, where there's smoke, there's fire ie:
if it looks like something is wrong, something probably is wrong. Follow the instincts that you were born with and believe in yourself. High, or not.

"When deeds speak, words are nothing." Pierre-Joseph Proudhon

...pot of gold

2011-02-05T07:13:00.003-05:00

It's out there for everyone, but I'm not sure what shape it will take for each of us. Maybe it's a great new song, learning how to ride a 2-wheeler or finding a nice, crisp 20 on the ground in the middle of nowhere. On this day in 1869 the largest alluvial gold nugget in history was found in Australia. I always thought that alluvial meant loose and not stuck together, but I digress. Find your pot of gold today and every day, even if it takes the form of tiny pieces or a huge chunk that you get all at once.

"Flat Fold Roman Shade" shown.

"A mask of gold hides all deformities." Thomas Dekker

...a song for you

2011-02-04T07:03:00.005-05:00

28 years ago, on this day, I was working in the Art Department at WCAU-TV as an Intern. I will never forget the news release that shot at me and my quick follow up that was part of my job. I had to read the news briefs and then go into the art archives to back the story up with some type of photo. The most recent photo I could find to correlate with this brief was a group shot of past Grammy winners. In that photo was the little face of Karen Carpenter, I think with a white ruffled shirt on. I have to say that I was in utter shock that day and was not too professional when the news spread across the station and then across the world. Other 'professionals' were shocked also and some even cried in the newsroom. She was and is my favorite vocalist of all time and also someone who remembered my birthday way back in 1975, even sending me a card. On this day in 1983, Karen Carpenter died.

"I'm just afraid I'm gonna miss it all... being married... being a mother."
Karen Carpenter

...in stone

2011-02-03T07:23:00.004-05:00

Today I will get my Drivers License photo updated. Hurray! I am now rethinking the large bag of salted Restaurant Style Chips that I inhaled last night, followed by a several large glasses of water. I hope they can fit my now large face into the tiny square on the license. Last night, as I marinated in salt, I was thinking about how smart it would have been to have saved each license, if only for posterity sake. Not that they take that angle when shooting the photo. On this day in 2010 a cast of the sculpture L'Homme qui marche I by Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti sold for 103.7million dollars, setting the record for most expensive sculpture sold at a public auction. Used in the past for identification purposes, qui marche must have had one hell of a time at the airport. Passports and Photo ID's are so much more convenient. "Sea Grass Embroidered Pillow" shown today. Available in late March because they take forever to sew.

"A rolling stone gathers no moss, but it gains a certain polish." Oliver Herford

...be safe

2011-01-31T07:13:00.002-05:00

On this day in 1747 the first venereal diseases clinic opened at London Lock Hospital.
A sexually transmitted infection is an illness that has a significant probability of transmission between humans by means of human sexual behavior. In recent years the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been preferred, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without showing signs of disease. Some STIs can also be transmitted via the use of IV drug needles after its use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding. Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years.
I have included a photo today of a poster used in WWII.
"My wife wants sex in the back of the car and she wants me to drive."
Rodney Dangerfield

...Tapestry at 40

2011-01-30T07:15:00.005-05:00

...definition: "Something felt to resemble a richly and complexly designed cloth: the tapestry of world history."
On this day in 1971,Carole King's "Tapestry" album was released. It would become the longest charting album by a female solo artist and sell 24 million copies worldwide.This album contained the songs "It's Too Late", and Song of the Year "You've Got a Friend". Three songs from the album, "I Feel The Earth Move", "It's Too Late", and "You've Got A Friend", all reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 after Tapestry's release. Altogether, four songs on the album were at one point #1 hits, all of which were written or co-written by King. King wrote or co-wrote all of the songs on the album, several of which had already been hits for other artists such as Aretha Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" (in 1967) and The Shirelles' "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" (in 1960). Thank you God and Ms. King for your remarkable talents and the willingness to share them with the world. I am not sure that this is fact, but I have heard that Carole King needed some nudging to sing her own songs. It may have been James Taylor, so kudos to him also. That is something that a true friend would do. Check out this version of "You've Got A Friend".

"I didn't want to be an artist." Carole King

...antithesis and alliteration

2011-01-28T06:48:00.003-05:00

Don't judge a book by its title! Many in the corporate world hunger for titles. There can even be a cast system of sorts which is, I guess, how that world operates. I have experienced people treating others less than decently until they learn of a specific title, degree or experience and then BINGO! the attitude changes. So can be said about the title of a book or a CD. On this day in 1813 Pride and Prejudice was first published in the United Kingdom. It has sold approximately 20 million copies worldwide. This may explain the McMansion in which Ms. Austen resides.
Though the story is set at the turn of the 19th century, it retains a fascination for modern readers, continuing near the top of lists of most loved books. It has also become one of the most popular novels in English literature, and receives considerable attention from literary scholars. Modern interest in the book has resulted in a number of dramatic adaptations and an abundance of novels and stories imitating Austen's memorable characters or themes. Anyway, after the success of 'Sense and Sensibility' the commercial aspects kicked in, the editors thinking the title a good one for selling purposes. Ahhhhh, titles! What would the neighbors think?

"Every man is surrounded by a neighborhood of voluntary spies."
Jane Austen

...proinhibitions

2011-01-26T07:03:00.003-05:00

It is snowing here in Chester County, PA. Last evening I had a most wonderful phone conversation with a wife, and then her husband; both now owners of a beautiful new sofa. But they don't want to pay for it! Seasoned as well as I am, I didn't let it fluster me when the old bat told me to 'take a walk' and then hung up on me. What did I do? Called them right back. Then the husband called me a f*cking idiot! Who is truly the idiot? Methinks it is the side who think that they don't have to pay for received goods. I need a martini! Speaking of which, on this day in 1838 Tennessee enacted the first prohibition law in the United States. I was of legal drinking age that year and, as luck would have it, my friend Kristen was making her own hooch from a bathtub in her Grandmothers' room. Lucky us! The hardest part about prohibition was finding olives and telling the shopkeepers that they were for a Greek Salad. Sometimes it is good to lose ones inhibitions, but don't try to cheapen anyone's day.

'Be faithful to that which exists within yourself.' Andre Gide

...no fear.

2011-01-25T06:58:00.003-05:00

Around the world in 80 days? How about 72? On this day in 1890, Nellie Bly completed her round-the-world journey in as many. 'Nellie Bly' was the pen name of American pioneer female journalist Elizabeth Jane Cochran. She remains notable for two feats: a record-breaking trip around the world in emulation of Jules Verne's character Phileas Fogg, and an exposé in which she faked insanity to study a mental institution from within. In addition to her writing, she was also an industrialist and charity worker. What will you do on this day? I can't promise to travel the world, and 'faking' insanity may be a stretch but I can promise that I will do my best and give it my all.

"Go forth a conqueror and win great victories." Virgil

...eccentricity

2011-01-24T07:22:00.003-05:00

In popular usage, eccentricity refers to unusual or odd behavior on the part of an individual. Hmmm. I spent the greater part of yesterday in a Senior Care Facility in Haverford. The objective was to take as many items from a large space and condense them into a much smaller one and make it feel like home. Apparently I did, because MF was more than happy in her new surroundings. While waiting for technicians to fix the telephone I met a woman who was looking for her husband. He had passed years ago and yet she waited. She began to cry so I suggested a cup of strong tea. I knew that it wouldn't bring him back, nor she, but it helped. On this day in 41, Gaius Caesar (Caligula), known for his eccentricity, was assassinated by his disgruntled Praetorian Guards. Thankfully today we don't do that sort of thing. Earl Grey goes a long way. "Money, like vodka, turns a person into an eccentric." Anton Chekhov

...feeding the family

2011-01-22T07:00:00.004-05:00

Sometimes it is a challenge to keep everything and everyone going in these questionable times.
Keep the faith, work hard and be thankful for all that you have, not disappointed in what you don't. On this day in 2002, Kmart became the largest retailer in United States history to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Along with Sears, they are now stronger and seem to be doing very well. Family oriented and aware, KMart does not sell either guns nor cigarettes.
This involves my stopping at other places, but I digress. This isn't all about me. Speaking of families, this limerick comes to mind!

There was a young girl from Rabat,
who had triplets, Nat, Pat and Tat;
It was fun in the breeding,
But hell in the feeding,
When she found she had no tit for Tat.

"All happy families resemble one another, each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way."
Leo Tolstoy

...Roosters

2011-01-20T06:53:00.005-05:00

This is Inauguration day when necessary. An inauguration is a formal ceremony to mark the beginning of a leader's term of office. Since we are currently in a term at the moment, no need to inaugurate. Todays photo is a Rooster Tassel. Roosters symbolize:
Pride
Honesty
Courage
Vigilance
Arrogance
Strength
Watchfulness
Flamboyance
These adjectives also define pretty much every person who was been voted as president. Nothing cocky about that! For those of you still waiting for the Ribbon Blue Rooster Tassel, here is the replacement. They are no longer making the original. More snow arrives tonight here in Chester County, PA. We will need courage, vigilance, strength and watchfulness. Maybe even a little flamboyance...why not?
"Each day provides its own gifts." Marcus Aurelius

...let there be light

2011-01-19T07:05:00.003-05:00

Our morning walk involved dealt with black ice and lack of light. One smart dog walker had a flashlight in his free hand. Smart fellow. I have no free hand luckily so we felt our way. This time of year, in certain geographic areas, people suffer from a lack of natural sunlight. The easiest way to cure this is to book a flight to somewhere warm and sunny. If you aren't in the mood to fly, stare into a light bulb. On this day in 1883 the first electric lighting system employing overhead wires, built by Thomas Edison, began service at Roselle, New Jersey. Unfortunately it was the first performance of Cirque de Soleil and they should have paid more attention to the location of these wires. The audience was none the wiser tho', as Jacques Deschamps looked as though he was on a trapeze. Have fun today, see the light and avoid electrical wires being used as jump ropes. Talk about light, on this day in 19**( her publicist advised me against using all four digits) Dolly Parton, American singer and the actress, known for her very large uhm, collection of wigs, was born.
"I look just like the girls next door... if you happen to live next door to an amusement park." Dolly Parton

...sheets of ice

2011-01-18T06:54:00.004-05:00

We awoke to an ice covered Chester County and what a walk we had! The boys have built-in 4WD so they led the pack and I slid behind. Friends called me from Naples and it was great to hear how sunny and warm it is down there. On this day in 1778 James Cook was the first known European to discover the Hawaiian Islands, which he names the "Sandwich Islands". Smart fellow. Sounds like a great place to be just about now. Just draw a tiny picture of yourself, cut it out and place somewhere on the map to the left. Have fun, and skate through your day.

"A woman at 20 is like ice, at 30 she is warm and at 40 she is hot."
Gina Lollobrigida

...can you take me high enough?

2011-01-17T07:05:00.007-05:00

Just yesterday I was having lunch with M,E,J,G & M W. Part of our discussion was listing retail venues that have gone out of business including Bonwit Teller, Wanamaker's, etc all having been in our own back yards. I learned tho' that Yang Ming, also in our back yard, was voted Best Chinese restaurant in the US, or something like that. That is something to be proud of. On this day in 1983 the tallest department store in the world, Hudson's, the flagship store in downtown Detroit closed due to the high cost of operating.I personally only like to hear success stories, but reality then sinks in. One of my favorite songs is "High Enough" which I have linked in case you need to hear it. Have a great day, don't get too high ( remember Hudson's) and give it your best shot. And like JO said, if there is an irritation in your life, be like an oyster and turn that irritation into a pearl. Good luck with that!

'Pleated Balloon Valance' shown today. Hang it high enough to create a sense of height in your room.

"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."
Martin Luther King, Jr.

...image is everything

2011-01-15T07:10:00.004-05:00

I'm sure you have all heard about that dastardly stunt pulled by Kate Perry's husband. Russell Brand posted a photo of his beloved wife Katy Perry on his Twitter account, without any make-up. Almost as bad, on this day in 1947 the brutalized corpse of Elizabeth Short ("The Black Dahlia") was found in Leimert Park, Los Angeles. As our Pop Culture seems to need, this American woman and the victim of a gruesome and much-publicized murder, acquired the moniker posthumously by newspapers in the habit of nicknaming crimes they found particularly colorful. Short was found mutilated, her body sliced in half at the waist. Heinous by any standard, at least 'stars without makeup' doesn't result in death...well, maybe to his/her career.
Gotta run now. I am still in my jammies and my apparently "visually offensive" ski cap with ears still adorns my head and I swear that I hear the click, click, click of a camera. Shown today is the photo for Karen Carpenters solo album. This album was purposely styled to help get Karen out of the ridiculous wholesome good girl image that ultimately aided in ruining her life. Note how the record company chose to put her head in a 'square'? Even in death she could not win that battle.

"Time, which changes people, does not alter the image we have retained of them."
Marcel Proust

...making records

2011-01-14T06:43:00.003-05:00

What is it like to make a record? What is it like to break one? I believe that humans are wired for competition, even couch potatoes. They like to win on Atari, right? On this day in 1973 Elvis Presley's concert 'Aloha from Hawaii' was broadcast live via satellite, and set a record as the most watched broadcast by an individual entertainer in television history. Not sure how OJ's car ride ranked.
Also on this day, but in 1989 The NAACP 21st Image Awards were aired. Michael Jackson won Best Male Artist and Best Album Of The Year (for "Bad"). On this day in 1514 Pope Leo X issued a papal bull against slavery.I won't get into Papal briefs on here. We have an entire Universe to help us. Isn't that almost surreal? Get out there, or stay in and make a record of your own. If you feel the need to break one, find a vinyl copy of 'Milli Vanilli' and break that one.
"We know what we are, but know not what we may be."
William Shakespeare

....plebiscite

2011-01-13T06:49:00.004-05:00

...is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal. Examples: voting on where the company Holiday party will be held, which color jackets should be worn in certain real Estate offices, or who wants to be a Nazi! On this day in 1935 a plebiscite in Saarland showed that 90.3% of those voting wished to join Nazi Germany. In all fairness, except for the ethnic cleansing part, this plebiscite sounded good.
The Nazis promised strong, authoritarian government in lieu of effete parliamentary republicanism, civil peace, radical economic policy (including full employment), restored national pride (principally by repudiating the Versailles Treaty), and racial cleansing, partly implemented via the active suppression of Jews and Marxists, all in name of national unity and solidarity, rather than the partisan divisions of democracy.
Have a good day, fight for what is right and shower daily, no matter what your ethnicity.

"He alone, who owns the youth, gains the future." Adolf Hitler

...Queen Of The Sea

2011-01-12T07:10:00.005-05:00

And you thought that this was folklore! Well, it isn't. The "Queen Of The Sea" is very much alive as you can see from her latest Press Release photo. Holding a pink fishing rod brought to her by none other than Santa Claus, she has reigned over the waters for centuries. Way back, on this day in 1899 13 crew members and 5 apprentices were rescued off the coast of England by the Lynmouth Lifeboat. Yes, Nolah led the brigade and while doing so enjoyed a chocolate milk. As recently as 2004, on this day of course, the world's largest ocean liner, RMS Queen Mary 2, made its maiden voyage. Understandably pissed off due to the name change of the vessel, (it was originally supposed to be called The Queen Of The Sea Too!) our brave young lady took it in stride. Only in a few photos can it be seen that the logo on the boat was scribbled out in pink crayon.
"I have laid aside business, and gone a'fishing." Izaak Walton & Nolah L. Pie

...got milk?

2011-01-11T07:09:00.003-05:00

I ran short yesterday, an it was a first. Even at my advanced years I love to drink it, although at this stage of the game it is of the fat free variety. The exact components of raw milk vary by species, but it contains significant amounts of saturated fat,unless it is fat free, protein and calcium as well as vitamin C. Cow's milk has a pH ranging from 6.4 to 6.8, making it slightly acidic. Adding chocolate to it makes it slightly yummier. On this day in 1878 milk was first delivered in bottles. A teen aged Joan Rivers was standing at her front door when the first milk delivery truck pulled up. Without milk, we would also be without cream, butter, yogurt, kefir, ice cream, and especially the more durable and easily transportable product, cheese. Kefir, by the way, is a fermented milk drink. Thanks but no thanks. I will now give credit where credit is due. The "Got Milk?" campaign was designed and implemented by the ad agency "Goodby Silverstein & Partners" for the California Milk Processor Board in 1993.

"There's nothing like sitting back and talking to your cows."
Russell Crowe

...measure twice, cut once

2011-01-10T07:49:00.006-05:00

This rule applies to carpenters, seamsters, wallpaper hangers and probably every other career in the world. You may have to adjust the words a little. No one is perfect, but the more detail oriented we are, the better the outcome. On this day in 2005 CBS fired four executives following the release of an independent investigation about a "60 Minutes Wednesday" story.It dealt with U.S. President George W. Bush's military service. The investigation said a "myopic zeal" led to the story being aired that was neither fair nor accurate. Forged documents had been used for proof in the story. Ouch.
My Grass cloth hallway job became more interesting. The vendor changed the length of a double roll from 8 yards in length to 6.5 yards in length. Surprise! Now how many rolls will it take if you need 29 8'cuts? Get out your calculators everyone! I originally ordered ten rolls. I will start the clock. Measure twice, cut once, plan accordingly and hope for the best.

"The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have."
Vince Lombardi

...crystal gale

2011-01-09T07:53:00.003-05:00

Crystal Gayle is an American country music singer best known for her 1977 country-pop hit, "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue". Actually it was the contact lenses. An award-winning singer, she accumulated twenty number one country hits during the 1970s and 1980s. She is also famous for her nearly floor-length hair and was voted one of the 50 most beautiful people in the world in 1983. She is the younger sister of singer Loretta Lynn (19 years younger) and a distant cousin of singer Patty Loveless. Crystal Gayle has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, near Loretta Lynn's star.
On this day in 1880 the Great Gale of 1880 devastated parts of Oregon and Washington with high wind and heavy snow. Chester County, PA has had lots of snow already this year making the green grass white. AA, UD, BJ and GD are in Naples, Florida missing all of the fun! Stay warm, enjoy the changes in season and if you feel the Winter Blues coming on...give one of the aforementioned initials a call. They would be happy to have you.

"On life's vast ocean diversely we sail. Reasons the card, but passion the gale."
Alexander Pope

...Daylesford Abbey & Candy Man

2011-01-07T18:06:00.005-05:00

I don't understand all of the pedophilia within the Catholic Church. It is a revered institution, and yet it is fraught with stories, and facts concerning sexual acts of impropriety. I know that the church is one of the largest profit-making institutions and remains tax exempt. Lucky them!
I did not attend Catholic School. I did go to Catechism. There was a Priest who used to give me unwarranted attention. He was a freak. His name was Father Hagan. I remember it to this day. It is something that one gets used to, but never forgets. He used to taunt me in front of the class and try to 'handle' me in private. I pushed him away back then and probably would have cut him if I had been older.

One day, and this is going waaaayyy back I called him on his shit. He would refer to me as Mr. Clancey, purposely misnaming me. I called him Father Heathen, ( please keep in mind that I was a mere tot, but thankfully with survival instincts) and wouldn't you know...my parents were called in. I never went back.
What I do not understand is why, after all of these years, this kind of thing can still happen. I also do not understand how, with the huge financial profits brought in by this big business, how they cannot afford to compensate the people whose lives they have ruined by reporting a 'lack of funds.'
These past few years have been monetarily tough for many, but geez. If you want to play with a young boy or girl, and make a major, negative effect on their lives forever, show some compensation...oops....I meant compassion.
"Forgive me Father for I have sinned." Oh, wait. It wasn't me, it was you.
Please read on...

On this day in 2010...well, I have cheated to copy and paste an article from snapnetwork.org:

Victim of pedophile priest speaks publicly for first time

Cleric known as “the candy man” taught in local school

Catholic officials have deemed allegations “credible” but won’t act

Group will try to hand deliver fliers to parents & a letter to school staff

Religious order, claiming poverty, offered man $2,000; he may file civil lawsuit

Self help organization wants principal to “reach out” to others who may have been hurt

WHAT
Holding childhood photos and signs at a sidewalk new conference, a clergy sex abuse victim will, for the first time, disclose and discuss the child molestation he suffered at the hands of a Catholic priest.

He will also try to
-- hand deliver a letter to school officials asking them to use their resources to reach out to others who may have been assaulted by the priest, and
-- hand out leaflets to adults around the school urging them to ask friends and relatives about the predator.

And he’ll beg local Catholics and current and former school staff to ask friends & family if they were hurt by this cleric, and come forward and get help if they were injured.

WHEN
Thursday, January 7 from 1:45 - 3:00 pm (as students leave school)

WHERE
Outside Sts. John Neumann & Maria Goretti Catholic High School, 1736 South Tenth Street (215 465 8437) in Philadelphia

WHO
A Florida man who was abused by the priest, his California attorney, and two-four child sex abuse victims who belong to a support group called SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAPnetwork.org)

WHY
Last year, John Katubi reported to Catholic officials that he was molested as a 10 year old by Fr. Robert W. Gaghan in the late 1950s. Gaghan’s supervisors, the Norbertines, have admitted to Katabi and his lawyer that his charges are credible, but claim poverty and have offered Katubi only $2,000. Katubi may file a civil suit.

Gaghan was the victim's uncle, pastor and teacher. Gaghan abused both of Katubi’s brothers too.

Gaghan, who died in 1989, was known as the "Candy Man” because he gave candy to kids who came to mass on Sunday at St. Gabriel and possibly St. Edmonds. Gaghan taught at Southeast Catholic - Bishop Neumann - Saint John Neumann High School from the 1950s through the 1980s. An alumni publication indicates that Gaghan was principal of Bishop Neumann (then called Southeast Catholic) in 1981.

The Norbertines have refused to turn over their ‘investigation report’ to Katubi despite numerous requests.

Some of the crimes occurred at a vacation home on the New Jersey shore near Atlantic City.

Katubi, now 64, is a Philadelphia native. He’s now divorced and works as a charter boat captain in Key West FL. He is represented by attorney Michele M. Betti of San Diego CA and New York NY (760 500 5451, mbettilaw@gmail.com).

The Norbertines operate Daylesford Abbey in Paoli PA. They are represented by Philadelphia attorney Michael D. O’Mara (215 564 8121).

CONTACT
David Clohessy 314 566 9790 cell, Barbara Dorris 314 862 7688 home, 314 503 0003 cell

...conflicting holidays

2011-01-01T19:52:00.003-05:00

How would you like to be born on a special holiday? It is hard to top the birth of Christ. Even Moreso to get top billing over a New Years Eve celebration. How does one handle this? Answer: be especially smart, beautiful and able to eat pretty pink cake wearing an ebullient smile. Did the ball drop at Midnight? Whatever. Pink rules. And so do CD, ND and KD. Pretty in pink? Yes. Happy everything. Pass the icing. I need seconds.

"Most of us can remember a time when a birthday - especially if it was one's own - brightened the world as if a second sun has risen." Robert Lynd

...what are you doing New Year's Eve?

2010-12-30T20:06:00.005-05:00

Ok, here we go. On this day in 1904 the first New Year's Eve celebration was held in Times Square (then known as Longacre Square) in New York, New York. And then on this day in 1909 the Manhattan Bridge opened. A few years later, in 1923 the chimes of Big Ben were broadcast on radio for the first time by the BBC.
There are many myths and practices that parallel New Years Eve. For instance, Blackeyed Peas, Rice and cornbread are a few foods that remain tradition for many.
A New Year's Day meal is considered to bring good luck.
Dried Blackeyed peas in your wallet or purse promises to bring extra money for the new year. Collards, Mustards or Turnips Greens eaten at this time are believed to do the same.
Kissing at midnight is apparently a good omen, because 'lore tells us that you will be kissing that same person for a long, long time. Choose carefully.
On New Year's day, and let's add some sexism to this just for fun?... do not allow a woman to be the first person to enter your house, as it is bad luck. It is believed, the first person to set-foot in your house should be a good man carrying a sprig of evergreen. Try not to choose one who has obviously been rolling around in the woods before he visits you.
General Hygiene. Do not wash on New Years Day! It is bad luck and believed to wash-out a family member. You can add sweeping to that. I guess that could work in your favor for a family member you do not like.
Loud noises, Bell Ringing, Fireworks and Shooting.
At 12 midnight, on New Year's eve, "Shooting in the air" and making loud noises at the stroke of midnight is believed to have scared demonic forces away. Safety first, what goes up, must come down.
Cleaning house and outstanding debts:
It's not good to carry them over into the new year, if that is possible. Start out on a clean slate. I suggest you make a large pitcher of Martinis, get a nice buzz on and push the vaccuum until the ball drops...or you do.
Aside form all of the above, take a moment to be thankful for what you have, ask the Universe for what you want and try to be satisfied in knowing that you have what you need.
Peace, abundance, health and happiness in 2011.
Jim

"New Year's Day is every man's birthday." Charles Lamb

...best friends

2010-12-29T20:08:00.001-05:00

"The only way to have a friend is to be one." Ralph Waldo Emerson

...Radio City

2010-12-27T08:16:00.004-05:00

I have been hearing this catchy, old school-esque song on the radio for quite some time now. It is one that I have to own, called "Forget You". I went onto YouTube to find out who it was, convinced that it sounded like Gnarles Barkley and boy, was I surprised! Gotta love the radio, especially 88.5 WXPN who always play the more unique tracks. Radio Gaga everyone as, on this day in 1932 Radio City Music Hall opened in New York City. Their opening number was not F*ck You tho'. It snowed last evening and we now have a blanket of white over Chester County, PA. The radio sure comes in handy for weather and traffic reports. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Christmas night came and went in a flash. I had a great time, happy that everything was done in a timely fashion. Now, how many days until next Christmas?

"It's not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on." Marilyn Monroe

...Happy Birthday

2010-12-25T08:33:00.004-05:00

"For the church's first three centuries, Christmas wasn't in December—or on the calendar at all." Elesha Coffman

For many of us, Christmas and December are inseparable. But for the first three centuries of Christianity, Christmas wasn't in December—or on the calendar anywhere. The celebration of Christ's birth was usually lumped in with Epiphany (January 6), one of the church's earliest established feasts. Some church leaders even opposed the idea of a birth celebration. Origen (c.185-c.254) preached that it would be wrong to honor Christ in the same way Pharaoh and Herod were honored. Birthdays were for pagan gods.
Not all of Origen's contemporaries agreed that Christ's birthday shouldn't be celebrated, and some began to speculate on the date (actual records were apparently long lost). Clement of Alexandria (c.150-c.215) favored May 20 but noted that others had argued for April 18, April 19, and May 28. Hippolytus (c.170-c.236) championed January 2. November 17, November 20, and March 25 all had backers as well.

A Latin treatise written around 243 pegged March 21, because that was believed to be the date on which God created the sun. Polycarp (c.69-c.155) had followed the same line of reasoning to conclude that Christ's birth and baptism most likely occurred on Wednesday, because the sun was created on the fourth day.

The eventual choice of December 25, made perhaps as early as 273, reflects a convergence of Origen's concern about pagan gods and the church's identification of God's son with the celestial sun. December 25 already hosted two other related festivals: natalis solis invicti (the Roman "birth of the unconquered sun"), and the birthday of Mithras, the Iranian "Sun of Righteousness" whose worship was popular with Roman soldiers. The winter solstice, another celebration of the sun, fell just a few days earlier. Seeing that pagans were already exalting deities with some parallels to the true deity, church leaders decided to commandeer the date and introduce a new festival.
Western Christians first celebrated Christmas on December 25 in 336, after Emperor Constantine had declared Christianity the empire's favored religion. Eastern churches, however, held on to January 6 as the date for Christ's birth and his baptism. Most easterners eventually adopted December 25, celebrating Christ's birth on the earlier date and his baptism on the latter, but the Armenian church celebrates his birth on January 6. Most—but not all—of the Christian world now agrees on the Gregorian calendar and the December 25 date.

I remember 336 vaguely. Still in my jammies I felt the excitement of this special birthday. Older now, I still love this day. I hope that whatever your belief system, this time of year still brings magic and happy times.

"Let's be naughty and save Santa the trip." Gary Allan

....RB and NORAD

2010-12-24T06:58:00.006-05:00

Last evening RB was driving with her 2 friends in HB's Volvo. This is not an official report of the accident that ensued, but perhaps one of her friends tried to change the radio station during Mariah Careys "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and RB leaned over to slap her a good one. The car rolled and one of her friends was listed in serious condition. RB chipped a fingernail. Except for the Volvo that rolled over, everyone else survived. Thank God. And Thank God that there is a manicurist open today. On this day in 1955, NORAD Tracked Santa for the first time in what has become an annual Christmas Eve tradition. Can you keep an eye on RB also NORAD? We want everyone to be safe, and that includes goth black nail wearing lovelies.Hug your loved ones. Life tends to happen in a split second. "Bashful" trim shown today. Nothing ironic there!

"How a person masters his fate is more important than what his fate is."
Wilhelm von Humboldt

...under the mistletoe

2010-12-22T06:40:00.004-05:00

Mistletoe is the common name for a group of hemi-parasitic plants in the order Santalales that grow attached to and within the branches of a tree or shrub. They are easily recognized by their smooth-edged oval evergreen leaves borne in pairs along the woody stem, and waxy white berries in dense clusters of 2 to 6. We all know mistletoe as the branch that you use as an excuse to smooch under! Pucker up, it's that time again! This time of year brings out warm feelings and the home and hearth attitude. It also brings out the crazy if you imbibe too much spiked egg nog. So watch who you are smooching underneath the mistletoe at you company Holiday party. Interestingly, on this day in 1809 the Non-Intercourse Act was passed by congress. Google it. It is not what you think.

"I'd luv to kiss ya, but I just washed my hair." Bette Davis

...good company

2010-12-19T08:26:00.005-05:00

Last night was the 23rd annual Christmas Party at the Qualms. Prior to that was a quick drink and time well spent with co-workers. Back to the Qualms. It was great to see everyone, many nestled on the sofas by the tree by the time that I got there. KJ taught me a back way to get there and she is terrific. There is something to be said about the safety and warmth of a safe haven. I felt quite at home as did probably everyone else there. I also took a huge slice of what I thought was chocolate cake but ***whammo*** it had more alcohol in it than my Grandma's Manhattan. The drive home was uneventful, thankfully, if you know what I mean. On this day in 1777 George Washington's Continental Army went into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. I drive through the park on my way to work every day, am thankful for troops that continue to protect us and wonder also how the Revolutionary Warriors made a home from unheated log cabins. I guess we do whatever it takes.

"It is better to be alone than in bad company." George Washington

...cologne wars

2010-12-17T07:03:00.003-05:00

Have you recently been to a shopping mall where they insist on spraying you with the latest fragrance? I have just learned that this practice dates all the way back to 1583. Forces under Ernest of Bavaria defeated the troops under Gebhard Truchsess von Waldburg at the Siege of Godesberg. It was called the Cologne War! Ernest had a large sample aerator of Chanel For Men; Gebhard chose Bod. I'm not sure how it all panned out, but reportedly the air around Germany was scented for days! Many of you have already received cologne and perfumes as a Hanukkah Present, many others will have some in their stockings come Christmas. Make love, not war...especially if you are buying the generic take-offs.

"The fabled musk deer searches the world over for the source of the scent which comes from itself." Ramakrishna

...the cost of Holo

2010-12-13T07:38:00.004-05:00

Hanukkah ended on the 9th of this month this year. EW's carpet was installed just in time and I am going to her home today to choose wallpaper for her hallway. One of the most generous, positive and tasteful person that I have every met, one day some cretin etched the work "f*ck" on one of her large outside windows. How disheartening to think that some people still have a problem with different religions. On this day in 1938 the Neuengamme concentration camp opened in the Bergedorf district of Hamburg, Germany. Thus began the Holocaust. I don't understand people, and the more years that I spend on this earth, the less I comprehend. But that won't stop me from doing my best to educate and I truly hope that others do the same. This world keeps getting smaller and all that we have to do is realize that there is a sameness to everyone. A Universal Rule that should govern all of us is a Golden One. Apply it now if you haven't in the past. "Swirl" wallpaper shown today.
"Don't overestimate the decency of the human race."
H. L. Mencken

...Christmas Turned Blue

2010-12-12T15:37:00.005-05:00

...don't let it happen to you! On this day in 1937 a Japanese aircraft bombed and sunk US gunboat Panay on the Yangtze River in China. Several years later, Seiko recorded this Christmas tune. Put the bombs aside and enjoy our differences. If your loved one is far away, if you have no cash to pay, enjoy. Donate your time or toys or food. Many people have more, many people have less. Please keep this in mind when you are complaining that your Range Rover is in the shop for a brake repair while others have no heat and no food to eat. The wallpaper shown today is blue. No arguments, right? But isn't it a beautiful shade of blue?
サヤ師匠、堂藻

さっそく米下さり蟻蛾糖です

今回100件記念（自己(笑)）としまして初めて真面目に取り組んでみました。

って言っても寄せ集めの絵を並べただけですが(笑)

今の僕のスキルではこれが限界です（爆）(@^^)３９●～*

"We do not remember days, we remember moments."
Cesare Pavese

...turn on the radio

2010-12-10T07:07:00.003-05:00

IPods are great but there is nothing better than turning on the radio and catching a brand new song that knocks your socks off. What a simple, and free, pleasure. On this day in 1927 the Grand Ole Opry premiered on radio. It is one of the longest running broadcasts in history. Reba McEntire is one of the longest running female vocalists in history. Her new song is, in my opinion, one of her best. Please use that as an example of how things can get better. Long into her career she is heading towards another #1. That can happen to all of us. Maybe not on the radio, but in other aspects of our lives. Keep striving, don't let the stress turn you into an a**hole and forge ahead.

"Create each day anew."
Morihei Ueshiba