Cool Musings

The Times...They Are A-Changin'

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 17:09:00 +0000

Been a long time since I've posted but my brain has been telling me lately that it is once again to do so. One never knows how different episodes in life will ultimately change them, but they do. We go along happy-go-lucky and suddenly we stumble and everything changes. For about a year or so a dear aunt had an on again, off again cough coupled with what seemed to be some sort of low grade virus or some such thing. She would go up and down in how she felt and so on. Late last summer they discovered the underlying cause of all the troubles she was having. It was T-cell lymphoma. This hand dealt to a woman who always ate right, exercised daily, and did all the RIGHT things...slapped in the face with this THING. In October we lost this beautiful soul. I was reminded that it's three months today! Her sense of humor and her caring disposition is and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Left behind is my dear uncle

and their lovely daughter. These seemingly unexplainable incidents change a person and family.

Rest in Peace, Aunt Cissy. You've earned it.

***********************************************************************************

Life and locations change with tides and events as well. For the last couple of years, my wanderings always have seemed to take me towards my sister's place and the surrounding areas in Arizona. My mother and I have taken several short vacations there, as well. We were fortunate enough to be a the very FIRST Spring Training game at Camelback Ranch...Spring home of the Dodgers. Beautiful place. Well...seems I have been enjoying my trips and the beautiful...yes beautiful...landscapes of Arizona. The sunrises and sunsets in the desert are a sight to behold. Last year I began thinking about getting a small 'vacation' spot there--maybe in an RV park or some such place. My sister's RE agent pointed out that those places wouldn't really give me any equity, etc. So I began the dangerous process of thinking! Maybe she is right. Maybe I should be thinking future and long term. After all...my tax man keeps telling me I need DEDUCTIONS!!! Ok, cp, I hear you! My mom and I have had a couple of very nice stays at one of the newer Del Webb communities, staying in an actual home and living as residents of the community. Tours of the models were quite impressive. Especially with the amenities offered and what they were including as 'standard' features. This last July, I went with my good friend who lives in the area to once again check out the models (I already knew pretty much which one I liked). This was after viewing several homes in my sister's adult community, but NOTHING impressed us!

A decision was made to go ahead and have one built for ME...an easy decision once I was shown what lots were available and there was a nice corner lot that I really liked. At one point, I had been looking to buy a home near my mom in Burbank, but even the 'nice' ones needed work and were well into the 400 and 500k range. It bothered me to think of going into debt for that huge amount!

The new house was finished around Christmas and it's really nice. This picture is of the sky at daybreak. I took it from my front yard. Another trip is about to be taken to the new place and once again my car is loaded with STUFF! Yes...the times they are a-changin'. Never did I ever think I would want to do anything outside my comfort zone of So. Cal. But several events in my life have made me realize that there is really nothing actually HOLDING me here. Social circles have changed or diminished, and what work type things I do for friends can be done anywhere. Some of the things and people that mattered a lot still matter, but they are not as important to me as my own well being. Time for me to look out for me and try some new adventures while I still can. For the time being, I will use the Arizona home as my escape and such, but things here are rapidly changing and my desire to move on is very strong, so....eventually...this will become a permanent place of residence, relaxation, activity, and more. More pictures will be posted in a week or two, as people are now bugging me to see MORE. OK already!

Remembering 9-11

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 18:46:00 +0000

I remember that Tuesday morning vividly. I had just recently retired** and was up early, as usual without a care in the world. Went into the kitchen and turned on the coffee pot and came back into the living room to watch the 6 a.m. news. It was a few minutes before 6, but channel 7 always seems to be a bit early. I heard them say something about an explosion or accident or some such thing in New York. As usual, I stood in front of the set to see what they were reporting. Within about one minute, I saw--live--the second plane hit the tower. I simply could not believe my eyes. To this day--ten years later--that vision is as fresh in my mind as though it happened yesterday.

It was obvious that this was NO ACCIDENT. Slumped on the sofa, I sat glued--as did most of the nation. What in the world was going on? As I was sitting there, it became apparent that we had been attacked...twice. Then--a very short time later--came the news of the crash at the Pentagon.

I continued (as I'm sure most did) sitting glued to the television and then that horrible moment when one by one the towers simply collapsed was almost too much to take. It looked like a war zone, which is exactly what it had become. Those people at Morgan Stanley and the other large companies---they never had a chance. The brave men and women from the fire companies who risked their own lives (some didn't make it) to find and help others that might still be alive under the rubble that was once a New York landmark.

I remember later in the day watching and seeing notes posted all over the place from those in search of loved ones not accounted for in the wake of the disaster.

I had breakfast with a friend of mine in Burbank and we decided we needed to get ourselves new flags (Seems many others had the same idea). We couldn't find one locally and finally ended up somewhere around Venice and Fairfax to purchase our treasures.

The images of the day's events and events in the following days, weeks and months shall ever be embedded in my brain.

In recent weeks, Yahoo News has been posting 9/11 articles and videos of not only the people who were there, but of how America has changed in the ten years. They have done an excellent and very moving job of reporting.

As we now are commemorating ten years this weekend, I hope all will take a moment to reflect on this tragedy and to once again show your support for America by displaying our flag for ALL to see that we truly ARE the UNITED states of America. Peace to all.

**Retired on paper but continued working until 2007.

Governor cheats...just like so many of his species!

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:50:00 +0000

Oh look! The latest scandal involving our former governor and the fact that he cheated on his wife, blah blah blah is old news and nothing new. It's a practice that's been going on since the beginning of time and only reinforces a belief that it's STILL a man's world and that they ALL belong to a secret "Good old Boy's" club. It's a practice that I don't think I will ever really understand. It doesn't seem to matter if HE is married or if SHE happens to be married or maybe both. Maybe it's the 'risk' factor and such that makes the game so enticing. The old story about telling the spouse/close friend/girl friend they are either working late, or fishing, or some other such age old story is just that. We women are the fools of the century, for the most part. Why? Well--for one thing, we make the mistake of being entirely too trusting. Whether they are actually getting some action or just having a meal with a potential 'lover' doesn't matter. It's all a form of cheating.
My question to our former governor is why NOW to disclose/admit what you've been up to? Why, after fourteen years or so have you just decided to 'tell your wife' and then -- as a typical male -- you "apologize" for...blah blah blah. What was about to happen, Arnold? Was the 'lover' about to go public now that you're out of office? Is there somebody in the know that indicated the affair was about to be exposed? Why NOW, Arnold?
So you men go about your little "hunting" expeditions, knowing that some nice lady is home keeping the home fires burning and taking care of all that needs to be done while you play and do her dirt. Hey...what she doesn't know won't hurt her. If you or your 'lover' just happen to be married...all the better. No strings attached. No commitment. Just fun and games and....all the sex you can handle. And if your wife finds out, you'll apologize and perhaps buy some nice little thing to soothe her ruffled feathers and make nice. Trust me, ladies...as soon as you turn your back, the fox will be out hunting again.
So the former governor has admitted to cheating on his wife and fathering a child. Who needs the media cramming this old as time news down our throats. I certainly don't!

LAUSD and a drop in the money bucket

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Today's news headlines boast of LAUSD 'booting' 19 consultants, most of which are construction consultants. My reaction to this "big" move is..."Big Whoop"! The few construction consultants are barely a tip of the waste iceberg plaguing the District and the entire educational system in Los Angeles.

Back in the 50's and early 60's the LA City schools were among the absolute top in the country. So what happend, you may ask. A lot, and most of it was not good for the system of education itself. Back in the glory days, the focus was on (gasp) education! We didn't have the bloated with consultants district. We had a district interested in actually educating the youth to become productive members of society. We gave them a "WELL ROUNDED" education, which included such bygone things as Home Economics, and Industrial Arts. It included basic and advanced art classes, as well as music programs. Wow! What a concept! And it's gone. Gone are the days when students learned to appreciate all forms of art and music. Gone are the days when students could make basic projects in wood shop and more. Gone are the days when students learned how to sew on a button. Imagine....what use could those classes possibly have?!? This was probably the precise thinking of those coming into power within the system. Forget education...let's just teach them HOW to graduate. Who cares if they actually understand what the tests are about...just get them to pass them, no matter how you do it.

In the 60's the board member make up also changed. In previous times the members were all members at large, serving ALL students. Some brilliant idiot decided to have the board members represent geographical districts within the system. Can you say political springboard, boys and girls. Now....the board members coming in were only interested in their own little piece of the pie and their own political agendas.

Another tragedy of the LAUSD was to do away with the shop, homemaking, and other practical arts programs. They cut back so far on art and music funding that most schools simply did away with them in an effort to satisfy the "testing" results. The brilliant politicans question why the drop out rate is high. Hellooooo????!!!! Not all are or want to be college students. There are those who actually LIKE working with wood, metal, material, and more. The District has taken away their reasons for attending school, and all that interest that segment of the youth population. From where will we get the carpenters, electricians, glaziers, locksmiths and more. How will we produce musicians? From where will the future Marc Chagal's come? It's sad to watch.

When will they learn that the real TEST is how well the students can function in society and how well they actually understand what's going on around them?

As I read the headlines and constantly ponder the stupidity of the LAUSD, I wonder how much of the 'education' monies produced from lottery sales has gone to pad the consultant levels within the system. It is just short of being criminal, and the ones who are hurt the most are the students.

While I'm on my soapbox, let's ask the real reason why they won't let Jamie Oliver into the schools. It is said that people who have nothing to hide hide nothing. The monumental effort being made on the part of LAUSD to keep Oliver out indicates to me that they have plenty to hide.

As a District retiree, with 40 years experience, I feel bad for the current employees who are facing more furlough time and pay cuts while those in command basically don't suffer at all.

Lose 90 percent of your consultants (especially the educational ones) and get back to the basics of teaching reading, writing, and arithmetic. If the kids understand and master the basics, the rest will fall into place. Get a clue, LAUSD. Get a clue!

90's gals

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:29:00 +0000

Went to celebrate a 90th birthday last evening. It was for the mother of a dear friend. Some years ago, we began (for who know what reason) comparing notes on our moms. They are approximately three months apart in age and have lived. We've been trying to match the two of them up for a long time, without success. I've known about the recent birthday for a couple of weeks, but didn't say anything to MY mother--fearing she would find some reason NOT to go. So I simply called yesterday and told her to meet me out front because I was taking her for a NICE dinner. All was fine except she is still kind of upset with me because she wasn't happy with her attire! We went to Tam O'Shanter--part of the Lawry's family of eateries. Mom felt she was 'under dressed'. She looks cute in most anything, though. That out of the way, the two 90 year olds met...for the first time. When Eloise walked in, I could see why her daughter (Betty) wanted them to meet. They are both about the same height (short), both walk with a cane, both have almost the same hairdo, and more. They immediately began talking about shoes, clothes, and QVC. We made sure the two of them were seated next to each other.

It was interesting to hear them talk about things from years ago and the terminology used then, compared to the present day lingo. What we call a baby buggy was commonly referred to as a 'perambulator' by that generation. It's actually an English term for buggy. What we call a stroller was called a 'tailor tot'. Both use the same terms. The evening was complete with great food, birthday gifts, and some great conversations covering a very wide range of topics. Those two "youngsters" had no trouble keeping up with the rest of us.

As the evening came to a close (a couple of hours later!), it was nice and rather amazing to see these two women, who have seen a lot in their lifetimes. Much of it different, and much of it the same. Both still drive, look sharp and are a tribute to their generation. If I live to be that ripe old age of 90, I can only HOPE to have as much on the ball as they seem to have. Happy Birthday, Eloise. May you and Ruth and all the others of your generation continue going strong for many more years to come.

Paper, Plastic, or Cloth?

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 23:11:00 +0000

I've been giving a lot of thought to the fact that some stores are now going to ban the use of plastic grocery bags. Why? They claim it's an "environmental" issue. The markest want us to buy and bring our own cloth type bags, thereby saving mother earth. I'm not buying into their hype for one minute.

Ok...so let's say you don't have your groceries bagged in the paper or plastic, but bring your own bag. Sounds wonderful and conscientious, but is it really? NO.

Think about your trash at home. Do you place it in a dumpster (or street barrel) in its raw form? Do you place it in a cloth bag? You MAY use paper bags (which the markets don't like either, for some reason). Most of us place our trash in large PLASTIC trash bags and then dump the PLASTIC bags into the dumpsters or barrels. So---how is THAT helping the environment?

Plastic is plastic, whether it be in a supermarket flimsy plastic grocery bag or in a Hefty or Glad extra strength trash bag. Either way, if the markets are correct, why sell the trash bags?

When I go to the store, I ask for paper IN plastic. That way, if anything I toss happens to leak at all, it won't mess up the inside of a cabinet or the floor. It's just something for you to think about.

On another note.....don't know about you, but I'm getting very tired of Charlie Sheen-gate. I think the show's producers should have him killed in a cliff dive car accident, and the entire estate be left to Berta. In could move Rose's father---Martin Sheen. How would that be as a slap in the face to the blame game master, Charlie?

Would he be missed? Maybe for an episode or two, but I think that would be about all!

Have a good one, everybody. cw

We're Mad as Hell, and....

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:50:00 +0000

I received the following from a work friend and really like and endorse its contents.
My brother-in-law decided to post it in HIS blog and I thought that would be a great idea.
So....here it is. Feel free to copy and paste the contents of the blog into an email
and send it on its way to your friends, family, and perhaps....
your congressman/woman! It's time to let the clowns in
Washington know just how mad we can get!

The 26th amendment (granting the right to vote for 18 year-olds) took only 3 months & 8 days to be ratified!

Why? Simple! The people demanded it. That was in 1971...before computers, before e-mail, before cell phones, etc.

Of the 27 amendments to the Constitution, seven (7) took 1 year or less

to become the law of the land...all because of public pressure.

I'm asking each addressee to forward this to a minimum of twenty people

on their address list; in turn ask each of those to do likewise.

In three days, most people in The United States of America will have the message.

This is one idea that really should be passed around.

Congressional Reform Act of 2011

1. Term Limits.

12 years only, one of the possible options below..

A. Two Six-year Senate terms

B. Six Two-year House terms

C. One Six-year Senate term and three Two-Year House terms

2. No Tenure / No Pension.

A Congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.

3. Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social Security.

All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, and Congress participates with the American people.

4. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans do.

5. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.

6. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.

7. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.

8. All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/11.

The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen. Congressmen made all these contracts for themselves.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.

If each person contacts a minimum of twenty people then it will only take three days for most people (in the U.S. ) to receive the message. Maybe it is time.

THIS IS HOW YOU FIX CONGRESS!!!!!

Oh NO! Another Year Gone?!?

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 21:55:00 +0000

No use in crying about it, gut yes--Virginia--another year is just about history. And what a year it's been! You may recall a few years ago when my mother had the relocation issue due to mold in her condo? Well that was remediated, but signs of it began to reappear earlier this year. The writing (if not the mold) was on the wall...time to make a move. Sell and move on! And so the search for a new or newer condo began. We enlisted the fine services of Coldwell Banker and the agent my brother in law has used. What a gem! Went to a few open houses, and general visits. We first looked at this one building, but my mom didn't think she 'needed' the third bedroom. We've told her it's better for re-sale and more. So she passed on the one unit she was contemplating. Onward to find not much of anything to her liking. Finally went back to the original new construction in Burbank. Success. Bought a lovely (in most minds) three/two condo with its own laundry room and more. Problem? On the alley, but----

Ok so now comes the move, which you've read about. After the move, the eventual sale and long laborious escrow in selling the old unit things slowed down...for about a minute! I then began my journey into flooring. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. But--in the middle of all that---I get this frantic phone call from my mother who informs me she has wrecked her car. Nothing I could do right then. In the end, she recently got a brand new 2011 Malibu. Does everything but the dishes and even has a Bose system. Rear seat has a 110 outlet!

These cars have everything now.

OTHER STUFF:

I have a dear friend who also has a mother the same age as mine. We constantly 'compare notes' on what WE do wrong! Know the feeling? Anyhow, we've been talking about how we are going to get these two to meet and get acquainted. We almost had it done this past week when my mom hit the big number 90 on December 7. My friend often goes to Tam O'Shanter and that's where I was

taking Mom. Friend thought...hmmmmm. So off to the restaurant we went on Tuesday. We were sitting at out table when here comes my friend, but not with her mother. She was with another mutual friend! Sort of surprise to me, and total surprise to Mom. The four of us had an absolute ball there! When the waitress made the announcement of a very special 90th birthday, all around applauded! When we left, one of the waiters came up to my mother and said, "Are you REALLY 90, because I find it hard to believe". She told him yes, but didn't have her driver's license with her, so she couldn't prove it to him!

It's holiday season, everyone, and that doesn't always mean thrills and fun. I don't especially enjoy the holidays. I've lost too many loved ones no longer able to enjoy the every day goings on. To you, however, I wish a healthy and happy holiday and hope to do a little more blogging in 2011. Hey...if anybody knows of a nice 3 bdrm house for sale (or rent) in Burbank, let me know. Till next time....keep on waddlin'

It all started with...

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 20:22:00 +0000

It all started about a month or so ago, when the light blocking shade from my bedroom woven blinds decided to completely give up the ghost. Two 'strings' broke and well--that was the end of that puppy.
So I called the company with whom I have done business for several years. Told them what the problem was. Oh...and when they come out to re-assess the window and its measurements, maybe they could bring some hardwood samples, too. My carpeting is original throughout my condo and with two cats around here the need was to either replace the carpeting or change to something else. Keep in mind that I've been toying with this idea for quite a while. The window shade was kind of the proverbial 'straw' that broke the camel's back, so to speak.
So the decision was made. Bedroom carpets would remain. The rest of the condo was up for grabs. Hardwood in the living room, dining room, entry hall, and interior hall. Kitchen and both bathrooms would now (finally) get tile. When one has allergies, some asthma, and cats (or any animal, for that matter), carpeting is not the best way to go. Seventeen years ago, when I bought this place, ideas were different and wall to wall carpeting was in style. Not so these days and for good reason.
Okay. Decision and selections made. Material would be ordered and work would start. And start, it did. On Monday, I escorted my two 'girls' (cats) to their vacation retreat---a kitty condo at my vet's office. These two are NOT spoiled. Once they were delivered, that left the rest of the day to pick up and pack away THEIR stash of goodies. Done. Tuesday morning would be the start of....
At about 10 a.m., the work started. Furniture from the living room had to be moved into the dining room area and then the ripping began. Up came the carpet! Up came the vinyl from the front hall and front bathroom. The front bathroom toilet was now residing inside the bath tub. It's really quite a statement, when you think about it. An original 'redneck' design. Shower/toilet combo--take care of two jobs at one time!!!!
So now the vacuuming and sweeping and such commence. Finally--finally we are about to start on glue and hardwood. By the end of the day (6:30 p.m.) a nice portion of the living room had been done. Great! Well...not exactly....
This morning (Wednesday) they arrived at 9:30 to discover that something didn't exactly set correctly. The next two hours were spent pulling up three lines of oak flooring. Things are now moving along again, and we may finish this project someday. When down and in place, the flooring DOES look great. I just hope it will be completed soon. The feline vacation condo is nice, but nothing is cheap. So what all started as a 'simple' shade fix has grown and grown and grown. Keep your fingers crossed that the rest of the project moves along with no more major glitches! Here's what the finished (somewhat) look is. Hopefully YOUR week is going smoothly. webpenguin

Moving right along...

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 23:56:00 +0000

It was an early summer day at the end of June when the world of boxes took over. It didn't take over the world--no--just a new condo on a nice quiet street in Burbank. The movers came to Glendale, saw what they had to do, and then conquered 37 years of what was a relatively comfortable lifestyle. At the young age of 80+, mom left the comfort (not so much anymore) of her Glendale abode and moved to a brand new, smaller complex in Beautiful Downtown Burbank. (You have to remember Laugh In to understand that description). She left her organized sanctuary and found herself wallowing in boxes. Here a box...there a box...EVERYWHERE a box or two or...oh who can count that high! My parents had purchased their two bedroom condo when it was new, back in the early 70's and were quite happy. It was large, light, and all was right with the world. In the last four years or so, things had changed, including some building related health issues and it was simply time for Mom to move on to something better, newer, and fresher.

Part of the box problem was our own fault. Being completely exhausted as we arrived at the new place, and not being used supervising such monumental undertakings, we allowed boxes to be placed where they shouldn't have been placed. Can you find the kitchen sink in the above picture? On Saturday morning, mom awoke and was ready to shut the door and go away for a breather. We simply had to make some sense of all the boxes and clear some pathways.

Enter....SUPERMAN. In his civilian life he goes by the name Dennis, but he is a superman or super hero or whatever other superlative label one cares to give him. Hand truck aboard, the transformation began and boxes were moved out of the way so one could at least navigate. I think MY NAME was 'mud' for a few days, but....

Update to the present: Things still are not all unpacked and put where they will permanently reside, but things are so much better!!! The hallway is clear, living room looks pretty darned good, and things are actually beginning to settle down. Moving soon? I don't envy anybody who does and I just don't understand how some people move at the drop of a hat. Well...maybe they don't have an accumulation of over 50 years of 'stuff'. 'Nuff said!

Absence Makes the Heart......

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:53:00 +0000

They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Absence takes on many forms, as we know it. Some absences are permanent, as when we lose somebody. Other absences might mean anything from friends away on a trip, or close friends who have moved away and are at a distance. Yesterday, April 25, was a day when the absence of some meant a great deal. It was another 90th birthday party. The lady on the right is Lily, and to look at her, you would hardly believe she has reached that number in her years on the earth. She celebrates officially on the 28th, but yesterday was the day for friends and family to celebrate her life and accomplishments. With children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and even great great grandchildren in attendance, the numbers were too high for keeping an accurate count! The lady on the left is MY mother, who is the 'baby' of the high school chums group at 89. Absent and sorely missed were the two living members who were not able to make it due to health constraints--Gertie and Goldie. The other two absentees were two we lost last year. . . Rochelle, and Helen. Helen's daughter and good friend, Marilyn did make it and we had a great time! To see the love in the community clubhouse was amazing. At one point, a slide show had pictures of Lily as a child, young mother, and more. There were some photos of previous gatherings of the 'gals', taken during the last few years.

As these ladies age, and as some are no longer here for us to enjoy, we witness a constant reminder of just how short life is and how precious it is. Just as life is precious, so too are cherished friends. The meetings have become few and far between. What used to be almost a monthly gathering is now....when those involved feel up to it. The two pictured above are symbols of what we would all want to be like if we should be fortunate enough to reach 90. Their bodies may be a little weaker, and maybe they don't do quite as much as they did 40 years ago, but what a testament!

Not only does absence make the heart grow fonder, but so does witnessing these amazing events of celebration. To those we've lost--we miss you terribly. To those who are just away, may we meet again soon...very soon.

Happy Birthday, Lily! Where is your 100th party going to be?

A Tea Party for the Moneycrats

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 20:13:00 +0000

For some reason, the moneycrats in Washington, Sacramento, and other cities and states just do NOT get it. Apparently there are a lot of common citizens who also have no clue or are just turning a blind eye to our growing problem of too much government...a government which keeps passing laws and levying taxes upon us and considers themselves exempt from all of it. There is talk and movement throughout the country gearing towards another Tea Party. Not a bad idea at all. Originally, the colonists were fed up with King of England making them pay for all his little projects and such. The British felt that the colonies were created to be used in the way that best suited the crown and parliament.
Britain ordered that colonists were to house and feed British soldiers if necessary....kind of similar to us granting so many benefits for the illegals currently in our country. Another factor leading up to the revolution and the Tea Party...was Britain granting a monopoly to the British East India Company--kind of the way a few extremely large (WM) companies are running the common neighborhood businesses out of town, creating their own kingdom of wealth. In large part, the American Revolution grew out of increasing restrictions placed upon the masses.

We have caved in, producing very little on our own, and relying on shoddy imports because they are 'cheap'. Cheap, at what price. We now have massive recalls on products made abroad that are proving dangerous to use or consume.

Our professional politicians have cut back on our Social Security, while granting themselves nice hefty pay raises. The voters have consistently told President O. that they do not WANT the health care plans he is proposing, yet he is determined to shove it down our throats. Some do still read and understand what it would do to our independent choices.

It's high time we did have another tea party. It's high time we amended our constitution to include language that would force ALL in congress to live by the same rules and pensions as do the people who put these people in office.

Wake up, people! We are NOT being represented. Hopefully, the teapot will reach boiling in short order and then the party can begin.

Valentine's Day and money matters

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 02:30:00 +0000

So here we are at another Valentine's Day. A day when women expect to be waited on, pampered, fed and loved unconditionally. It's a day when the poor men of the country scramble about, spending a fortune on candy, flowers, perfume and such. See's Candy must be literally raking in the money. I didn't buy anything for anybody this year. Why, you ask? Well...I guess that's a good question. I just don't think that spending gobs on frivolous things is how you prove you care about somebody. Oh...it IS nice to get a little something. I did get a small box of candy from a friend of mine this year, which was totally unexpected and very much appreciated. I hope it was because he wanted to give it rather than feel he'd better give it. Speaking of candy, as I digress, I have been trying--with some success--for the last year to shed the sandbags I carry around, known as weight. I think, however, my friends and family are trying desperately to sabotage my efforts. I say this because for the last few months, these kind (not really) people have been giving me nothing but candy, cookies and other stuff that I should NOT be eating. But if it is around here....well....

ENOUGH, people! Food is one of my strongest weaknesses and even on a good day, it's almost impossible to resist yummy foods.

Back to the holiday and showing love. No--I don't think that flowers and candy show real love. What shows it is being there for somebody, even when you really don't feel like it. It's listening to them vent. It's showing compassion and understanding on a daily basis. Loving somebody should not be something of a convenience...only being shown by materialistic things.

Have a friend that doesn't do much cooking? Bring them a meal from time to time. See something in a store that you just know they've been looking for? If it isn't going to break your budget or take food (there's that word again) out of your mouth, buy it for them...just because!

It's called paying it forward.

For Valentine's Day this year I'm just sending love, in the form of cards...mostly e-cards, telling the people I care about that I DO care about them.

Next month is another one of those birthday things coming up to hit me in the face. Last year was NOT a good year for birthdays. A series of small but significant 'little' things happened to make me feel very low. One friend, whom I've known for many many years, claims to have 'forgotten' my birthday, which is not quite true. The decision was made to simply not acknowledge it. This year, maybe that person will have a new memory chip put into the brain. I hope so. Some who read this will know to whom I am referring. If so...tell that person that instead of candy or perhaps another 'stick', they can surprise me and invite me to dinner. Maybe a cute teddy bear or something along those lines. Tell my other friends and family to lay off the options of CANDY....please. I really need to shed the weight.

I'll close by sending each of you air kisses and hugs and hope you are shown love by all. There is NO better gift than that. Hugs are nice, too. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone. cw

Save America Bumper Sticker from Zazzle.com

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 02:48:00 +0000

Save America Bumper Sticker from Zazzle.com

Age---it's only a number

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 20:51:00 +0000

The age of 90 may seem old to many, and by most accounts, it is a quite advanced age. Last Saturday, January 2, was a celebration of 90 years of life--life and living. From time to time, I've written about my mother and her school chums who have been continuous friends for over 70 years. The lady seated in the picture to your right is Gertie, Gert, Gertrude, Trudie...Hoffman, and on January 3 she attained the age of 90. In the last several years, she has endured much, from the loss of a long ailing husband to the fiery destruction of her home, located in that mobile home park in Sylmar that saw over 500 homes in the park destroyed by that nasty Sayre fire. All wiped out in a breath. She has seen two close schoolmates lose their lives this past year, as well. That's what happens to your close friends as you all age. As I reported a month or so ago, the group of six is now down to four. All four pictured above are...from left...Gertie, Ruth (my mom), Goldie, and Lily. Although all have some sort of aches and pains and such, they are a spunky bunch of gals who still act like teens when together. Their love of life and of each other has endured the test of time and tragedy. Gertie, after losing her home, has now taken up residence in the Jewish Home for the Aged, and seems quite happy. Her two daughters, Gail and Michelle, threw her this birthday bash in the Rec Center of Gail's apartment complex. It was attended by MANY and there was enough food for an army. Everything from appetizers to two --yes two--birthday cakes. All even sang to her.
After watching these incredible ladies interact with each other as I have for years, I can only think of how lucky each lady has been to have such long lasting relationships in this day and age of disposable things and people. I raise my glass in a toast to them that they all continue to thrive and enjoy each other and may we learn something from them. The lesson? Quit thinking of how old we are and feel. After all--age IS only a number. Happy Birthday, Gertie, and may the four of you enjoy many more years of friendship and love. cw

When You Play with Fire...

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 23:19:00 +0000

The latest front page news involving Tiger Woods is a sad statement to the morals that are lacking in this country, and probably elsewhere as well. He recently went on record apologizing for his 'indiscretions', blah blah blah. The ONLY thing he is sorry about is the fact that he literally got 'caught with his pants down'. But let's be fair here. He is not the only player. There are other women involved in this age old tale of relationships, infidelity, and so on and so forth. I will never understand why a woman (or a man, for that matter) would even CONSIDER getting hooked up with a person who is married. Men and women have been telling each other for years that their spouse just doesn't understand them, or that one or the other is never home, or that they have grown apart. If all this is actually true (which most likely is NOT), get a divorce and go your merry ways. Maybe it's the intrigue of risk and...'let's see how much I can get away with'. Or perhaps it's the mentality that says, What she (or he) doesn't know won't hurt. Bull! What starts out as 'innocent', such as just having a cup of coffee or a drink after work is anything but innocent and is simply a prelude to other things. Some men feel that a 'slight' flirtatious relationship is okay with a married/separated woman because she is 'safe'. The same goes for the women who do the same thing. They also have the mentality that says, "we're different...we're careful and won't get caught". Uh Huh! Right.
Now that Mr. 'schoolboy' Tiger has been found out about the current 'friend', others seem to be coming out into the open.
Maybe it's the danger element that lures these people into these situations. Maybe it IS because one thinks the other is SAFE. No such thing. It is simply wrong. It's wrong to play around, and it's wrong to carry on a lie. It's CHEATING! Period.
Most who really know me are well aware of my feelings towards lying. Not just out and out lying, but lying by omission is just as bad, if not worse. When the omission is discovered, it can be more hurtful than the original 'lie'. Tiger --and his women-- are playing a game that's as old as time. What they all fail to realize from the get go is this....When you play with matches/fire, you will eventually get burned--one way or another. For those who read this and are somewhat guilty of some of these little things like just having coffee or lunch or a drink with a person who is married--even if you know the family...remember this: What you may perceive to be innocent and just a nice friendship may be viewed quite differently in the other person's mind. And there is no such thing as a "safe" flirtation. Okay. I'll step down now and go finish my online holiday shopping. Have a good weekend.

And Then There Were Four

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:53:00 +0000

Last year--as some may recall--I wrote an article entitled "Four Plus Two Equals Seventy". It was about my mother and the school chums who have been good friends for over 70 years. I wrote about how they have managed to stay in touch and even get together quite often since the 30's. They've witnessed births of children and grandchildren, deaths of all but one spouse and still are vital women. Women of age, if you will. Last year we saw how fire destroyed a lifetime of living and memories for one member of the group, who is now living in a retirement home in the west valley. Some of the mobile home community in which she lived have returned or soon will in brand new homes, but she will remain where she is.
Early this year, we lost our little gal seated in the picture. Rochelle went quietly and peacefully to join husband Harry. Rochelle did not have an easy life, but always made the best of things and was rarely seen without a smile on her face. Actually, she ended up being the hit of MY wedding reception. Go figure.
I received a call last evening from my mother, informing me of another tragic loss from the school chum group. After a rather brief illness, we've just lost Helen (standing...far left). Helen was the 'senior' member of the cast and crew and leaves behind two daughters, grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Daughter Marilyn is a good friend.
Helen and Rochelle will be missed by all....the members of the group, as well as the adult children of those ladies. I can still remember many gatherings at our house. The food, the laughter--all are with me in my head and in my heart. Those times may be gone and the visions a bit faded, but they're still there....at least in my mind.
We've watched and witnessed the deaths of the family patriarch's (only one husband remains) and now--as age and illness come visiting--we are slowly losing the group. There is a lot of truth to the saying that youth is wasted on the young. It's especially true as I have watched these ladies laugh and giggle like schoolgirls well into their upper years.
So now, as we bow our heads and bid a good-bye to the 'senior' member of the cast, we are reminded of how precious life really is and how valuable friendships can be. We watch as these healthy, vibrant women slowly decline and wither. It isn't an easy thing to watch, but it is all part of the cycle of life.
Rest in peace, Helen, and know that you will be missed by all. You will be with all in spirit.
----And then.....there were four.

Ever have one of those weeks

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:58:00 +0000

Ever have one of those days or perhaps one of those weeks where you just wish you could hit the infamous Ctrl + Alt + Del buttons and restart the entire thing? Well--that is just the kind of week I seem to be having. Only it started over the weekend. I should have known then that I was on my way to the depths of...
Sent a communication to somebody near and dear, in an attempt to explain some things. I may now be sorry because that person is now trying to hold me accountable for things I never knew I did...years ago! I should have known. Monday wasn't much better, as I managed to oversleep and miss an appointment. There is a message here--somewhere. Today was no different. Started off with traffic problems. What normally takes me twenty minutes took forty-five. Another message? Also had an invite of sorts to join friends for breakfast. Ever get the feeling that somebody in the group is doing little minute things just to get to you in a round about way? It's happened more than once, so...well... Exactly. Another message there, too.
From there, I had some business in another part of the valley...or so I thought. Like everything else this week, that fizzled out. So now I am at home where the only ones I need to answer to are my two cats who seem to enjoy fighting so that I will yell at them to stop.
Think I'll just go curl up in a fetal position and hide from the world for a while. No...not looking for pity. A hug, however, would be nice.
Hope YOU all have a better week.

Thanksgiving Reflections

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:36:00 +0000

I had an opportunity to be with some very dear and close friends last evening and now I'm sitting here and thinking about the upcoming events in what's left of 2009. We're always asked at this time of year what makes us thankful. At every Thanksgiving feast is the usual array of answers, which include good friends, family, etc. Thanksgiving usually means a day filled with football and FOOD! This year will be no different for most, but very different for those who have been directly affected by the current economic issues. Some find themselves wondering where the next meal will come from. Some worry about the swine flu thing and others just worry.
Like most others, I will find myself with family, pigging out on turkey and all that goes with the meal. I think my assignment is some sort of salad. No big problem there. I sit here now waiting for the washing machine to quit and wondering what else I should be doing that I am not.

It's a time to reflect a bit on the year and its ups and downs. Like most of you, I have seen my investments drop in value. I hear talk that the recession is "over". I find that rather difficult to believe. They claim home sales are up. Maybe so, but WHO is buying the homes? Most likely it is those who buy for speculative purposes. I'm reflecting on health issues right now, wondering about the swine flu, and also about the aging process and the problems that go with it. There are people I know well and some only in name who are suffering with illness. Some visible, and some not so on the surface. Some of these people who are in ill health are elderly and one not old at all, by today's standards. I keep thinking about these folks and the fact that we just NEVER know how much time we have and/or how our own health will continue or decline.
So am I thankful? Yes. I am thankful for this mess I need to clean up and I am thankful for the laundry being done at the moment. I have a roof over my head. For that I am also thankful. As most know, I am the president of my condo association. I'm thankful for that and its 'problems' , too. I am thankful for the great HOA board I get to interact with almost on a daily basis. All are intelligent people with much to offer.
Some of my mom's long time friends aren't too well these days and that makes me sad. It also makes me grateful to have a mother who does not look her age. She is a vibrant and intelligent human being with much to offer. My close friends (they are few) mean the world to me. These few know that they can call upon me at any time, and the same goes for me calling upon them. We are there for each other. Period. For that, I am extremely grateful.
So I guess this will be another Thanksgiving like most others except for the absence of those no longer with us. Life is so short. It's also quite unpredictable. So...keeping that thought in mind...remember....Life is uncertain, so EAT DESSERT FIRST! May you end up with the large part of the wishbone this year and may it work wonders for you. Happy Turkey Day, All.
Webpenguin

Joy to the World Coffee Mugs from Zazzle.com

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:17:00 +0000

Joy to the World Coffee Mugs from Zazzle.com
Here's to a Melodious Holiday Season. Check this out and more...
http://www.zazzle.com/webpenguin

Mer E-Christmas Mugs from Zazzle.com

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:03:00 +0000

Mer E-Christmas Mugs from Zazzle.com

Buy Me...and MORE!

www.zazzle.com/webpenguin

Silent Night Card from Zazzle.com

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 04:54:00 +0000

Silent Night Card from Zazzle.com

Memory..Where has it gone

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:47:00 +0000

Here's a new song, sung to the tune of "Where have all the Flowers Gone"
See if you can identify with it:

Where has all my memory gone
Long time passing
Where has all my memory gone
Long time ago
Where has all my memory gone
Gone to aging---every ONE
Will it ever return....Will it ever return

Where has all my eyesight gone
Long time passing
Where has all my eyesight gone
Long time ago
Where has all my eyesight gone
I need glasses---STRONGER ones
Oh my--these eye drops burn....Oh my--these eye drops burn

Where has my good hearing gone
Long time passing
Where has my good hearing gone
Long time ago
Where has my good hearing gone
Now folks whisper---EVERY ONE
This isn't any fun...this isn't any fun

Where have all my good times gone
Long time passing
Where have all my good times gone
Long time ago
Where have all my good times gone
To my memory--every ONE
And they will not return...they just will NOT return

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone...webpenguin

Get MAD AS HELL

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:34:00 +0000

The following was sent to me by a dear friend, who received it from his brother. It's powerful and I felt it needed to be shared. We've been on a path of self destruction for years and yet we don't seem to be stirred up enough to actually change. Our government was set up to be a government of, by, and FOR the PEOPLE. Let's take some action and take back OUR COUNTRY!

An open Letter to AARP

AARP

This gal can write! Pass it on and boost her credibility.

This letter to the AARP says it all. It is a must read regardless of your age.

This was sent to Mr. Rand who is the Executive Director of AARP

Dear Mr. Rand,

Recently you sent us a letter encouraging us to renew our lapsed membership in AARP by the requested date. I know it is not what you were looking for, but this is the most

honest response I can give you. Our gap in coverage is merely a microscopic symptom of the real problem, a deepening lack of faith.

While we have proudly maintained our membership for several years and have long admired the AARP goals and principles, regrettably, we can no longer endorse its abdication of our

Values. Your letter specifically stated that we can count on AARP to speak up for our rights, yet the voice we hear is not ours. Your offer of being kept up to date on important

Issues through DIVIDED WE FAIL presents neither an impartial view nor the one we have come to embrace. We do believe that when two parties agree all the time on everything

presented to them, one is probably not necessary. But, when the opinions and long term goals are diametrically opposed, the divorce is imminent. This is the philosophy which

spawned our 200 years of government.

Once upon a time, we looked forward to being part of the senior demographic. We also looked to AARP to provide

certain benefits and give our voice a power we could not possibly hope to achieve on our own. AARP gave us a sense of

belonging which we no longer enjoy. The Socialist politics practiced by the Obama administration and empowered by AARP

serves only to raise the blood pressure my medical insurance strives to contain. Clearly a conflict of interest there!

We do not understand the AARP posture, feel greatly betrayed by the guiding forces whom we expected to map out our senior years and leave your ranks with a great sense of regret. We mitigate that disappointment with the relief of knowing that we are not contributing to the problem anymore by renewing our membership. There are numerous other organizations which offer discounts without threatening our way of life or offending our sensibilities.

This Presidential Administration scares the living daylights out of us. Not just for ourselves, but for our proud and bloodstained heritage, but even more importantly for our children and grandchildren. Washington has rendered

Soylent Green a prophetic cautionary tale rather than a nonfiction scare tactic. I have never in my life endorsed any militant or radical groups, yet now I find myself listening to them. I don't have to agree with them to

appreciate the fear which birthed their existence. Their borderline insanity presents little more than a balance to the voice of the Socialist mindset in power.

Perhaps I became American by a great stroke of luck in some cosmic uterine lottery, but in my adulthood I CHOOSE to embrace it and nurture the freedoms it represents as well

as the responsibilities it requires.

Your website generously offers us the opportunity to receive all communication in Spanish. ARE YOU KIDDING??? Someone has broken into our 'house', invaded our home without our invitation or consent.

The President has insisted we keep the perpetrator in comfort and learn the perp language so we can communicate our reluctant welcome to them.

I DON'T choose to welcome them.

I DON'T choose to support them.

I DON'T choose to educate them.

I DON'T choose to medicate them, pay for their food or clothing.

American home invaders get arrested. Please explain to me why foreign lawbreakers can enjoy privileges on American soil that Americans do not get? Why do some immigrants have

to play the game to be welcomed and others only have to break & enter to be welcomed?

We travel for a living. Walt hauls horses all over this great country, averaging over 10,000 miles a month when he is out there. He meets more people than a politician on

caffeine overdose. Of all the many good folks he enjoyed on this last 10,000 miles, this trip yielded only ONE supporter of the current administration. One of us is out of touch

with mainstream America . Since our poll is conducted without funding, I have more faith in it than one which is power driven.

We have decided to forward this to everyone on our mailing list, and will encourage them to do the same. With several hundred in my address book, I have every faith that the

eventual exponential factor will make a credible statement to you.

I am disappointed as hell.

I am scared as hell.

I am MAD as hell, and I'm NOT gonna take it anymore!

Walt & Cyndy

Miller Farms Equine Transport

P.O. Box 1702

Cheraw , SC 29520

Music, Music, Music

noreply@blogger.com (webpenguin) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:56:00 +0000

I need to get a pet peeve out in the open, but first--since today is the 25th, I'll start by saying there are only THREE MONTHS till Christmas. Start shopping NOW! Ok. Now then, it's time to 'air' some things and feelings. I don't know about the rest of you but I can't stand these disk jockeys who feel it is their duty and God given right to talk over the beginning of a particular song.(ok...just about EVERY song, except...YOU TALK TOO MUCH) It doesn't matter whether you are on AM, FM, or Sirius/Xm. These people are so enamored with their own voices they can't just start the music and simply SHUT UP! For me, sometimes the first part of a record is the best part of it. The intro simply MAKES it. But these airwave egoists seem to feel the need to drown out the intros in favor of their own voices. Enough is enough. Does it bother anybody else, or am I the crazy one. Wait. Maybe you shouldn't answer that.

While we're on the subject of annoying things, TV commercials are another thing. I've gotten to the point of simply recording the shows I really like so I don't have to view ten minute interruptions of commercials. Some of the commercial breaks are LONGER than the segment being shown. The break is so long that you could easily forget what you were in to! Especially at this stage of my life! LOL! An hour show is only about 22 minutes long in reality. Speaking of reality....the reality shows are simply NOT REAL!

Anybody ever watch the comedy network? If you do, you'll notice that swear words (some of them) are bleeped out. Why? It's cable, it isn't being aired during the 'children's hour' and on and on. They bleep out swearing, but on network television they practically show you an entire act of intimacy. Nothing seems to be taboo anymore. Do the writers really believe that sex is the only thing that sells a show? Get real. Since this seems to be a good day for bitching about stuff, here's another one. . . Movies will always show naked women, but why don't we women get to see NAKED men. A bare chest does NOT qualify. Hey--maybe we like to look, too! Knowing how the network exec's think, they may be a bit self conscious. Ya think!?!?! Ha ha ha.
Don't guess there's much more to gripe about except...why don't people pick up after their dogs? Maybe every neighborhood needs a poop patrol. My condo community is constantly dealing with people who think there is maid service to pick up after their animals. Wonder if they let their kids poop in the living room and walk away from it. Our lawns are OUR living rooms, when you get right down to it.

Ok. That's it and that's enough from the gripe department. September is just about history and so is another year. Here's to good times and good health for all of you.
webpenguin