Looking back upon the last year, examining all my choices and accomplishments, there seemed to be only one conclusion I could come to, with regard to the next path I should take in life. It's not that it's been lacking. After all, I have a wonderful husband, a house full of cats, and a job that hasn't quite yet, forced me to the bottle...not yet. However, despite all these things I have to be thankful for, there is still room for improvement, which leads me to my one and only New Year's Resolution...
I resolve to become more like Wonder Woman.
Now, I know what you're thinking...Come on Cathy, dare to dream! But hear me out. You see, she is my hero...I love her more than anything...she's so smart...and beautiful...and gracious...and everything I could ever hope to be.....
Oh! Uh...Cathy! I didn't see you there! Umm...I was just keeping your blog warm for you, while you get your computer fixed...what am I writing? Uh...nothing...nothing at all...
Yes folks. I'm afraid it's true...I am an imposter. However, little does Cathy know that by asking me to sub for her, while she weeds through her technical difficulties, she is playing straight into my eeeevil plans for ultimate world domination. First this blog - next, maybe yours....MWAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAA....
The Wonder Woman action figure I sent her for Christmas still does my bidding, and has been very busy, initiating the sabotage that allowed me to assume control of this blog, and Michael's. And don't laugh Rob - you're next!
So, who knows how long Cathy will have me dancing on this stage - I used to get paid for this, Cath! But, for the time being, my mission here is to wish you all a Safe and Happy New Year, from Cathy and Michael...and the house full of cats!
This post brought to you by the smart, beautiful, gracious and maniacal Wonder Woman from A North American Patriot
Saturday, December 31, 2005
My New Year's Resolution...
Come on.... click it...sign it... this will stay at the top for now...
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
crash and burn
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
For Sunday:
Rain Hi 64 Lo 46 for Baghdad, Iraq
Rain Hi 40 Lo 29 for Northern Kentucky
Song of the Week: Christmas in Sarajevo, Trans-Siberian Orchestra (Thanks to Rob for the suggestion)
My friend, Rob has posted the story of the birth of our Christ, Jesus.
Be sure to read the following story to your little ones and "not so little" ones tonight. OH, and don't forget, you can track Santa and his reindeer here. Thanks NORAD!
The Night Before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse,
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their bed,
While visions of sugarplums danced in their heads,
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap...
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on Cupid! on, Donder* and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes -- how they twinkled -- his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly
That shook, when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his teams gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
Clement C. Moore
Now, I'd like to take a moment and wish everyone a Merry Christmas. This is a time to be with family and friends and to remember those that can't be with us. I want to thank those of you that have stopped by and said hello over the past 6 months since I started this blog. Michael and I want to share Christmas "cheer" with men like Michael O'Rourke, Capt. B and Major K and countless others. We sleep safe and sound in a most amazing country because of brave men and women like them. I will remember them on this most holy of nights.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on our troubles will be out of sight
Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Make the yuletide gay
From now on our troubles will be far away
Once again as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more
Through the years we all will be together
If the fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now
Once again as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more
Through the years we all will be together
If the fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough
And have yourself a merry little Christmas now
Happy Christmas to All and to All a Good Night.............
Thanks to:
SmplySoft , 7 Oaks , and Wonder Woman
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Festivus
The most important holiday of the year is this Friday. Yes... Festivus is upon us once again. As you know, Festivus has been around for a very long time. Here are some of my favorite traditions:
- Festivus always begins with The Airing of Grievances.
- At the Festivus Dinner, the entire family gathers at the table. The head of the household reviews the past year and all the disappointments he/she has with each person seated.
- Christmas has the tree (not to mention that whole baby Jesus thing). Chanukah has the menorah. Festivus has the pole, which must be tall, skinny, aluminum and devoid of tinsel (too distracting) and have a very high strength-to-weight ratio."
- Feats of Strength is the high point and the final part of any Festivus Celebration.
The Festivus Dinner is the most important part of our holiday celebration. The food must be perfect and since Michael was a chef in a previous life, we are the envy of many estranged relatives (which gives them suggestions for their personal grievances). 
I'm so excited about this year's menu, I just have to share:
hors d'oeuvres:
Creamed Corn Tacos (the first taco consumed without corn oozing out and spilling is considered the first Festivus Miracle)
Limburger Cheese and crackers
Skyline Chili Dip (a Cincinnati favorite)
Salad:
Arugula, curly endive, nasturtium salad with vinegar (symbolizes the bitter spirit possessed by all)
Main:
Ham with a Mountain Dew and black strap molasses glaze ('nuff said)
Mashed potatoes (a reminder of all our mashed hopes and dreams)
Asparagus spears (representative of the Festivus Pole- no tinsel)
Braised Bulb Fennel (can't wait to watch our guests squirm when they try to eat this crap)
Dessert:
Fruitcake (but you haven't tried myyyyyy fruitcake....)
I have 2 grievances to share... (I'm saving the best ones for Friday)...
- Albany, Oregon guy... You are still creeping me out... make your presence known man... We know your creeping around other places too... we've seen ya over at Michael's, Master Jedi Rob's, and Wonder Woman's.
- The left lane is for passing.... GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- OK... 3 grievances.... LEAVE A COMMENT!!!!!!!!!
How do you celebrate Festivus? Have you experienced a Festivus Miracle? I want to know!
HAPPY FESTIVUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks to:
CrazyGirl.com, Wikipedia, Seinfeld-fan.net
Musical Suggestions
Also, a quick little sidenote... Don't forget the 23rd is Festivus!!! Prepare for The feats of Strength and The Airing of Grievances!!!!
Merry Christmas and Festivus for the Rest of Us!!
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Goodbye Mr. A, I'll Miss You
Sunny Hi 69 Lo 50 for Baghdad, Iraq
Scattered Flurries Hi 25 Lo 15 for Northern Kentucky, USA
Song of the Week: Daughters, John Mayer
OK... couple of things...
- With the help of Michael's friend, Ahmad, I have decorated SMC and Scootertrash Conservative for Christmas... Please note, the occasional snowflake you see... (its supposed to be a heavier snowfall than what it actually is...it looks great in preview!!) Anyway, hopefully more snow will fall next week... and hopefully it isn't taking forever for my blog to load...
- Will the person from Albany, Oregon, leave a note, say hi... say you hate my blog, say you like the polka dots, find my rambling amusing and confusing, something...anything. I completely appreciate you spending time here... after all, that is what a blog is for... however, you are freaking me out with your extended visits and not writing anything... come on.... say something... I don't bite.... swear! :-)
- I now have 9 folks that have signed my map! I'm nearly in the double digits!! WOOHOO! Just for that... it stays at the top!
- Monday begins Thank a Soldier Week. Please take time to show your appreciation. I saw a few guys in the mall and was able to shake some hands and thank them. Don't be shy... If I can do it (I am the most shy person on the planet- swear) you can do it... I promise you will make someone's day... Don't forget our vets too... a lot will wear ball caps showing that they are a vet... thank them... too...
I was going to wait until Father's Day to make the following post, but tonight, while Michael was at work, I went out to dinner with my family- My grandparents, mom, brother and Kamae, Caleb and Cory. Watching my brother with his daughter convinced me to write about this tonight despite the events below just occurring and are too fresh... the emotions too raw... but it dawned on me, that I needed to write about this now... In hindsight... I should have written this in a Christmas card... last year... but I didn't...
As long as I can remember, I have always been an observer of people- Not just "people watching", but attempts at sneaking glimpses into the souls of those around me... people I love, as well as perfect strangers. I've always paid particular attention to the relationships between fathers and daughters. Since June, when I started this blog, I've danced around the story of my own father (my brother refers to him as the sperm donor-- and that is most assuredly the only thing he contributed to Terry and me). The Reader's Digest version is Mom and SD met when he was a Marine stationed in Okinawa. He met and fell in love with my mom, brought her here, they had me and then Terry... He ______ (fill in whatever excuse you prefer) and then left us... I think I was 5 or 6 and Terry was 3... He disappeared and did not show up again until the day O.J. Simpson was aquitted.... At some point I'm sure I will write about him... It is inevitable... I use this forum to exorcise my demons... and that man has created a lot of demons and baggage for me... So... anyway... that explains my curiosity of relationships between fathers and daughters. In fact, I get twinges of jealousy and melancholy when I steal a glimpse of a father and daughter sharing a moment...
So, like anything else, I don't consciously think and dwell and obsess (ok, maybe a little obsessing) about these things... It's just something else about me that explains some of my "quirkiness".............. (I love that word... quirky...rhymes with perky... I'm neither of those things... make no mistake...) So, why am I writing about this? I'm making my way there... (ramble ramble I know)... This past Monday I got to work... happy to be there (riiiiiggghhhhttttt) and I open an email from an old friend, Jimi... It started like this:
"Cath,
Well, My dad passed away yesterday[...]"
Crap...
Jimi continued with:
"I wanted you to know how much I appreciate you sending my dad Christmas cards over the years. You have been a dear friend. In September, when I visited, he mentioned the cards and asked how you were. We talked about your car accident and I avoided telling him that I argued over politics with you before the election. Having seen the heated discussions I've had with my brothers over the years, Dad kept our conversations centered on spirituality and making the most of life while we are here..."
Jimi was my first true love... we dated in high school and for reasons probably still unclear to him, we broke up while we were in college... Jimi is another one of those talented artists that passed through my life and left a mark that will last my lifetime... I adored him and his family... I even went on vacation with them to Myrtle Beach... at least that is my memory of the past. That is how I have tucked away that part of my life...
So, I read this email from Jimi a few more times...The few times we had seen each other included 2 funerals--his older sister Mary and later at Rodney's. Upon reading Jim's email, I was unbelievably grief stricken--a complete and utter sadness rushed over me unexpectedly and I couldn't fathom why. I mean, Mr. A was a nice man, but good grief, I hadn't seen him for over 20 years! I had talked to him a few times throughout the years, but really, why was I so upset?? I remember Jim telling me some time ago that his father had been diagnosed with cancer. Why did I think it was not that serious? Good grief, Cath... Cancer! Why did I not ask any questions? How unlike me... I called Jimi and we talked, he and Myrna, his lovely wife, were headed back to Cincinnati for the funeral. They had just been home the week before and at the time he realized it was the last time he would see his father.
It took me all day to realize why I was so distressed and I tried to articulate this to Michael. I hate crying in front of Michael, because it hurts him to the core to see me upset. He held me and let me cry... Do you realize what an amazing husband I have?
Later after I pulled my act together, I tried to explain to Jimi and I will try to explain here as well... Throughout my lifetime, I have always adored men...I prefer the company of men (gross out habits and all) over women. I have never been good at small talk and being delicate and supportive of "women" things... I can not stand those stupid chain emails that start off "the difference between men and women... blah blah blah..." As I have gotten older... it has become more difficult for me to relate with most women... Conversations typically revolve around children... Michael and I don't have children...so, I am always odd man out on those conversations, However, at times these conversations can be amusing, because women tend to do this weird competition thing... but I'm rambling in the wrong direction...
My grandfather has always been here for me... He is my grandfather and he has always treated me like a princess, but our relationship has always been that of grandfather and granddaughter... I am the oldest of his grandchildren and the only girl... I am not his daughter (I thought I did a post about this, but can't find it... maybe I just thought I did...If I find it, I'll link it-in any event, my namesake, Aunt Cathy died of leukemia at the tender age of 5), but I can never replace her, nor would I want to, In any event, being the eldest grandchild and only granddaughter has had its privileges over the years... In my childhood, I created relationships (in my mind) with some of my uncles that was a father/daughter type of relationship... but, in reflection, those relationships were more polite than anything else... and maybe, just maybe a little pity on their part.
As a kid, when we first moved to Anderson, we lived in a neighborhood where there weren't any fathers.... tons of kids... tons of moms... all divorced... I never realized it..not until years later. My best friend back then was a girl named Julie, she lived here until the end of 6th grade, but her Dad was THE Dad to the entire neighborhood... He was the only man around and Julie's family was quite literally my first exposure to a "normal" family where there was a Mom and Dad and 2 brothers and 2 sisters and a German shepherd named Princess. Mr. B was great! He did Dad things... ahhhh... but he wasn't my Dad... Later, I was friends with a gal named Amy, and I adored her family too... Mr. and Mrs. T... They were childhood sweethearts... As I recall, they got married when Mrs. T was 14. They are still together... happily too. Mr. T was Grizzly Adams-- remember that show? Big Guy with diverse interests--boat building, muzzle loaders airplane pilot... Best memory... Amy invited me to dinner with her Mom and Dad... We got in Mr. T's Cessna and flew to a little restaurant in Louisville... How cool is that for a 14 year old? Mr. T would always joke with me... torment me just like he did with his own kids... Because of my heritage, he'd always ask me to walk on his back... Too funny!
So, fast forward to Jimi... His family treated me as part of their family. Mr. A always treated me like a daughter.... always... He was interested in what I had to say, in what I thought... I remember he would side with me against Jimi...all in good fun. He would make sure that his son was treating me with respect-always. He even gave me my first office job...I blew up his computer...
So, that's why I am sad... Besides my grandfather, Mr. A was one of an elite group of men in my life that I had placed in that father figure role... and now he is dead.... and I didn't get to say good bye... I didn't get to thank him for the gift he gave me... I had lost touch with someone that made me feel special... made me feel like someone's daughter.... What a wonderful thing!! And I will be forever grateful.
So, the point of my story (because there always has to be a point...) is that it is ok that my Dad wasn't around, Terry and I are pretty convinced we would have ended up being white trash had he stuck around. Yeah, I have times when I feel bad that I didn't have a Dad growing up, but I pity him more because he missed out on so much... including 4 amazing kids that could have called him grampa... besides there were and are plenty of people in my life that fill that void...
My point to Fathers... pay attention to your daughters...we women can be so complicated, we have run amuck, so help raise your little girl to be a beautiful responsible bright woman... Don't like high maintenance? Don't spoil her... teach her the value of the word "no", yet put her on a pedestal and teach her to accept nothing less... a fine balancing act...Teach her to respect men and not bash them... But above everything teach her to respect herself...
so
fathers be good to your daughters,
daughters will love like you do...
-John Mayer
Maria, Terry and Kamae
Sam and AimeeHave a great week everyone. Take time to wish folks a Merry Christmas... enjoy the season...
Friday, December 16, 2005
Tagged... the pressure!!!
Cutie pie Joshua over at Peakah's Provocations tagged me with a meme here. What on God's green earth is a meme? Well, thanks to girlfriend Diane who was tagged also, I now know... Thanks Diane. I am supposed to name my 5 weirdest habits... OK... "we" are going to give this a go... not sure if this is my thing....Once I have completed this task... I then in turn get to tag someone else... who will then curse my name and mumble "what the heck is a meme?" Well if they had just clicked above... they'd know, now wouldn't they? I tend to take things of this nature way too seriously... and it is all in fun... right? Riiiigggghhhhhtttttt........... I will obsess over something like this... Should I be funny? Should I go serious? Should I just ignore it? OK... what if I try to be funny and it's not... funny... OK... well, then I could be serious... divulge real weird crap about myself... Yeah, now that's a great idea... really expose my jugular for all to slash... yeah... brilliant... I could of course just ignore it... and potentially subject myself to being an outcast... "does not play well with others" type of thing. I've been called "intense". What the heck is that supposed to mean? HUH? Can we make this my first one? I think we can! WooHOO 1 down 4 to go!!
#1 I ramble. See above.
#2 I burp loudly whenever or where ever the urge hits me.... Michael always follows it up with, "Better?.... My delicate flower?" Michael is so proud...
#3 I get sayings wrong... For instance... "A watched pot boils eventually" ... or "A shut mouth gathers no food" ... or "Count your chickens before they hatch"... Nice, huh?
#4 I have conversations with my cats... When Michael is out and about and it is just the cats and me... I will talk to them... and sometimes they talk to me..................................... I'm serious.
#5 I love to swear... Four letter words are not only a habit... it's a hobby...This is an awful awful awful thing... I really have to keep it in check at work... in front of children... here...
#bonus I love to use ".............................." a lot.
OK... pretty painless... now it's time to pass this meme to others....
I pick:
Michael
Rob
Roberto
Wonder Woman
Chrys
Go to it... share your 5 weirdest habits...
Sunday, December 11, 2005
My Picks for 2005 Weblog Awards...
OK... I know what you are thinking..."Thank God, Cathy is finally weighing in on her choices... Now I can go vote with confidence!"
Yes, the wait is over and although I am not a finalist in any category... I'm not bitter, no not at all..I find it important to express my opinion... because there are some mighty fine blogs out there.
As a sidenote, it is this author's humble opinion that the nomination round was rigged...Afterall, I did nominate myself...Not to mention I even had a sponsor! Ahhhwww.... go figure...
OK the real reason I did not make it to the finals is due to the simple fact that MY category does not exist.... That's right... There isn't a category for "Best Pointless Rambling Blog That Takes Forever to Download". I'd bet big bucks that I'd win if that were a category...
Here we go.... My picks are:
Best Blog: Michelle Malkin When does she sleep?
Best New Blog: Wuzzadem He makes me laugh.
Best Conservative Blog: Ace of Spades . A tough choice until I saw Ace's campaign. No kittens will be killed on account of me...
Best Media/Journalist Blog: Michael Yon It doesn't get better than this guy...
Best Culture/Gossip Blog: The Llama Butchers. I like saying Llama...
Best Photo Blog: Japan Window No matter how chaotic my day has been, I can visit Andy and be instantly calmed by his photography.
Best Military Blog: This is a tough category for me... I visit nearly all these blogs faithfully... I've narrowed it to 2... Major K and One Marine's View. I connect with these 2 more for whatever reason. I am rallied and angered and encouraged and saddened and hopeful because of the inspired words these two men write...
Best Podcast: Morning Coffee Notes. Voting solely because I will occasionally have lost souls show up at my doorstep looking for my "pod"... Thanks for the traffic...
Best Canadian Blog: A North American Patriot Wonder Woman is a unique gal and should be read daily. Besides, we started our blogs at the same time and I believe I was her first "fan". I'm not a stalker though...
Best UK Blog: The Policeman's Blog Does he even know he is a finalist?
Best European Blog non-UK: OK... this is another tough category for me... simply because I love all the Italians listed and visit all of them and I don't speak or write a lick of Italian! I am rotating my votes between Otimaster, Robinik, Right Nation, and Free Thoughts. These folks are loyal friends to the United States... Don't let anyone tell you otherwise...
Best 251-500 Blogs: Nickie Goomba Why is he lagging in the numbers?
Best 501-1000 Blogs: Vince Aut Morire This is the first guy to add me to his blogroll... sometimes it's all about loyalty.
Best 1001-1750 Blogs: The Rebelution A couple of teenage twin Christian brothers...How do Christian teenagers stay true to God. It ain't easy... not in the world today... Great blog!
Best 2501-3500 Blogs: Diane's Stuff I like Diane 'cause she is one tough chick and writes about things that I think about... without the rambling...
Best 3501-5000 Blogs: The Reign of Ellen I just adore her.
OK... I think that's it... now go vote....vote often...
I think Kevin @ Wizbang should get a special award too... What a great guy, all the work...Holy smoke!!
Now... this is all in fun, I ask you to remember... Monday is an important day for the fight for democracy and freedom in Iraq. Remember and pray and stand in solidarity with them.
Open Letter from Bill Bennett
October 2005
Good Will Toward Men
Sunny Hi 76 Lo 54 for Baghdad, IraqMorning Snow Hi 32 Lo 22 for Northern Kentucky, USA
Song of the Week: Little Drummer Boy, David Bowie and Bing Crosby. This is for you, JoAnna.
South Park rendering of JoAnna
courtesy of her husband
Thanks to Diane @ Diane's Stuff, Ann @ Spiced Sass, My honey @ Scootertrash Conservative, and Cherry @ The Book of Secrets for stopping by here and leaving a comment for Mike. If you have not left a comment of encouragement, please do...OUR guys are being pummeled by crap they don't need to worry about... This time of year far from home in harm's way feeling unappreciated... They need to know we have their back... Please go now.
OK... now I need you to send some cards to these injured soldiers... (I know... demanding today, aren't I?)
Something wonderful has happened... My two favorite beverages have merged to form one...
"NEW YORK (Reuters) - Coca-Cola Co. (KO.N: Quote, Profile, Research), the world's No. 1 soft drink company, on Wednesday said it will launch a coffee-infused soft drink called Coca-Cola Blak in various markets around the world in 2006"
more here...
Michael and I had our Annual Power Shop Til You Drop Day...Michael hates to shop-- and I mean with a capital H.... hates it. Because of this, we have figured out a way to get it over with in one clean swoop. It is a carefully orchestrated event. It takes a lot of prelimary planning and decision making-
1) a list of everyone and a few "fill in the blanks" for those "unexpected" folks.
2) a theme for each person- if a specific item is available, we'll go with that. These ideas are typically kept in my head and not shared with anyone.
3) a list of stores to visit and the order that makes the most sense. (Michael and I hate malls so we avoid them whenever possible)
4) Michael is the the coat and bag holder.
5) I am the check writer (no credit cards... cash only)
6) a generalized budget...
With the advent of the wonderful world of the internet, I already completed a lot of shopping... What a wonderful thing... So, anyway, Michael and I set off at 11:30AM- I wanted to get started earlier... but that didn't happen...we don't push things on this day... there isn't a set time (something that I can get weird about)... We have 3 simple rules that must be followed to make this "power shopping event" a success...
*Rule# 1 - Be patient while driving, this includes highways, back streets, and parking lots.
*Rule# 2 - Be nice to everyone - sales help and other patrons- even when they don't deserve to be treated nicely.
*Rule# 3- Be nice to each other - the most important of the rules.
All 3 rules can be extremely difficult to follow, but because we have done this for a number of years now, it is something we both look forward to. Michael's version of the rules can be found here........please go check them out... So anyway, we left home about 11:00AM-ish and got home about 9:00PM-ish. This included a trip to Jungle Jim's... the only place Michael loves to shop... other than Lawrenceburg Motorsports.
(Wonder Woman: Jungle Jim's is in Ohio, Lawrenceburg Motorsports is in Indiana.) We have completed our Christmas shopping with the exception of my Grandfather, but we know what we are getting him and Michael will pick it up on Monday. So as far as I'm concerned, we are finished! Wahoo!
We had a lot of fun today, including a late lunch at P.F. Chang's. Mmmmm... lettuce wraps....
After reviewing the events of the day... we accomplished our mission: Shopping complete, good will toward men...
I'm pooped... Now... we still have to finish decorating the house...1st floor still needs to be finished. Last year I made our Christmas cards and had them mailed right after Thanksgiving. This year, they are store bought and I haven't finished all of them... Now I have wrapping to do. I'll wait until I get everything I ordered via the internet before I start on that. Michael wants to make cookies....
I hope you are in the Christmas spirit. It is the season for giving. 2005 has been a year that has been trying for so many folks. There are so many people that Michael and I know, that have suffered loss this year... loss of good health, loss of loved ones, loss of personal possessions, loss of faith, loss of hope... We as Americans must persevere... This is what we do best... we give of ourselves...we reach out with a helping hand... Give of your heart, give of your time- so as you are fussing over there not being enough time to get everything done before Christmas, take a moment. There is no such thing as the Christmas blues, even if you are lonely... give of yourself to someone who needs more than you and you'll see... you will feel better...
I'll watch these while wrapping gifts...
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The Little Drummer Boy
Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Spongebob Squarepants Christmas
The Powerpuff Girls, 'Twas the Fight Before Christmas
I have a couple of additional items that I want to post because I value my own opinion, I'll be putting up a separate post of my picks for the 2005 blog awards...
In addition, I now have the added pressure to get my 5 weirdo personal habits posted because of this man.... Actually, it should be fun... Rob feel free to make suggestions...
So... with that said... I bid you all good night and I'll see you in the morning with a cup of java in hand... look for additional posts from me... in between decorating and Christmas cards, that is...
"It came without ribbons!
It came without tags!
It came without packages, boxes or bags!"
And he puzzled three hours, `till his puzzler was sore.Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before!
"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store."Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!"
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Christmas Card List + 1 + 9
"This morning on the FOX morning news/talk show, there was a story about Col. Ollie North and Col. Hunt (both members of the FOX news staff) visiting wounded US mil service members at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. They were talking to a recently wounded in Iraq Marine, a Joshua Sparling, who is recovering/re-hab'ing. On a wall next to the young Marines bed was a single card that said something akin to "die Marine".....
Some anti-war and anti-US military puke had sent this Marine an "I hope you die" get well card. It was the only card that this brave kid had received. True to form, he put it on the wall next to his bed as an inspiration to recover, rehab and get back to his unit and USMC buds.
Both the Colonels and the FOX news people thought this brave kid was an inspiration and certainly deserving better than a one time "go die" card....
Very likely written by a liberal democrat........
So, FOX put out his name and address at Walter Reed so he can get some Get Well Cards...... Bet you a $100 that his Xmas stocking is going to be overrun with cards and another $100 that he shares them with the other WIA's at Walter Reed. If there was ever a reason to go out and by a card this is it......Send it on to everyone you know. "
Joshua Sparling
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Ave NW
Bldg. 2 Ward 57
Washington, DC 20307-5001
Go here for the Fox news story. Good Lord! What is wrong with people. My worst enemy, the one person on this planet that I truly can say I detest, loathe, even hate... I do not wish death upon... [big sigh]
Go send this man a card... NOW (please)!!!
Michael, thanks for bringing this to my attention. (Yet another Michael in my life... I know...)
Also... I typically don't blog this much throughout the week... Sunday is the only day I have made a personal commitment to blog (hence the name...Sunday Morning... blah blah blah...) Remind me later that I need to do a rant about how ignorant we are in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area when it comes to snow... good freaking grief....
Update: Here are other wounded troops that could use some words of encouragement
Capt. James Ollinger
Sgt. Zavian Simspon
Specialist Brian Radke
Specialist Jason Braase
Sgt. David Nevins
Sgt. Jose Ramos
Cpl. Todd Bishop
Sgt. Ryan Donnelly
Sgt. Eva Diane Cochran
Send cards and care packages
c/o: Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20307-5001
(hat tip to Michelle Malkin)
One Marine's View
"Many people leave comments (thank you very much by the way) and send emails about what they can send us, what do we need. What do we need? Really? Its more armor right…..nope. Its more troops right?..........nope. Its gotta be the stooper idea of pulling us out of here, right?..........mention that again and someone’s getting hurt, NO.
We simply need your support. Think back during past holidays. How many American flags have you seen flying? Cmon think!!!! Oh I know you see the usual holiday decorations and flags at the post office and bank but how about your work place, neighbor’s house or even your house? Im not trying to drive up my stock in American flags but the fact that they arnt that expensive and cost about as much as a lunch at McDonalds why don’t you have one flying??? Well???"
Go visit him.
More...
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Bombs Bursting in Air
"Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of American was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan."
USS Ronald Reagan in Pearl Harbor
For audio or transcript of President Roosevelt's Infamy speech visit History Matters.
We can not forget...
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you.
Tonight... take a few minutes and watch A Charlie Brown Christmas....celebrating 40 years... an American tradition. Aren't we all a little bit like Charlie Brown? I know I am.
I have been watching this my entire life (I'm 40 too)... I don't remember crying as a kid... Am I the only one that cries? please tell me I'm not the only one...
Charlie Brown:
Isn't there anyone out there who can tell me what Christmas is all about?!?!
Linus:
Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you. Lights, please. (A spotlight shines on Linus.) "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you this day is born in the City of Bethlehem, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men'". That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
I Will Remember You
**Thank you to everyone that posted a comment here for a discouraged soldier. I will make sure Mike sees them all. Please, if you have not done so, please leave a comment for Mike here. Uh... you too, honey... please.
Thanks to my American pals:
Chrys @ Pettifog Jots and Tittles
Joshua @ Peakah's Provocations
Diane @ Diane's Stuff
And of course thanks to my Canadian friends:
Paul @ Blue Blogging Soapbox ---I voted for you for Best new Canadian Blog.... :-(
Lindsay @ United Right
As usual, girlfriend Wonder Woman gave me some link love here. Vote for her here for Best Canadian Conservative Blog.
And wow... what about my friends in Italy: Go visit these folks... it is so cool to know we have friends and allies this strong and loyal. Yahoo offers a translator to make reading easier.
Roberto Nicolai @ Robinik
George Walker @ Pro American Movement
Carlo @ I Diavoli Neri (The Black Devils)
Elena @ Robinik
and Lo Pseudosauro
George also sent this link If I Die Before You Wake, a sobering tribute.
**OK, on to older business... The correct answers to last Sunday's quiz here and here are as follows:
Since You Went Away
A Christmas Carol
Little Women (June Allyson, Elizabeth Taylor version)
Big Fish
Wizard of Oz
Serendipity
Sound of Music
White Christmas
Scrooged
Holiday Inn (the Song White Christmas was performed in this movie first)
Planes Trains and Automobiles (watched at Thanksgiving)
Auntie Mame (watched New Year's Day)
National Lampoon's A Christmas Vacation
A Christmas Story
Miracle on 34th Street
Elf
It's a Wonderful Life
Rob was the closest... missed by one, but Right Girl was on it. The movie that stumped everyone was the first one- Since You Went Away. Wow... rent it! The wonderfully talented Claudette Colbert, the beautiful Jennifer Jones and the lovely teenager, Shirley Temple. Joseph Cotten and Lionel Barrymore are also in it. In fact, there will be other faces you will know and recognize. The story takes place during World War II, but no battles are depicted except the one on the homefront...The hardships and struggles, dreams and fears of one family. This is a perfect movie to reflect today on the families of our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. Yes, it is full of smaltz... and I love every second of it. The movie was made in 1944, so the realities of war are throughout this piece. It's a long movie so make extra popcorn. Let me know what you think.
**Last night, we were supposed to go to a benefit dinner and dance for Marine Nick Erdy who was killed back in May while serving in Iraq- An IED . I have been looking forward to this benefit since October. I would be able to pay my respects to the parents of a fallen Marine. Unfortunately, weather was not agreeable and we had to "abort" our trip due to icy road conditions. Quite frankly, I am very disappointed and I feel like a major wimp- I mean, here is this guy, Nick... his parents... his family... his friends... the hurt, pain and suffering, the loss of someone so young... and I couldn't make it because of weather... I'm a big loser and I don't feel like writing anymore. Not looking for an "it's ok, Cath..." Just let me sulk. I should have gone.
"Remembering The Sacrifice"As the Helmet is designed to shield us from harm... Lord, we ask that you hold Nick in your loving hands. Comfort and shield him as he did us as he served.
Bless him and his family for the selfless acts they performed for us in our time of need. Our brothers and sisters ask this in your name. Amen.
-Milford Community Fire Department
2005
Fire Chiefs Helmet Retired
