Nagging mothers...gotta love 'em!

So, I called my mom this afternoon. The usual check in so she doesn't freak out and think something's happened to me. I kid you not, one time I didn't call for a couple of weeks and she called everyone who I had called (at the time she was paying my cell phone bill, so he had the numbers), called my teachers, sent the police, and even made the 5 hr drive to find me.

A bit extreme, but I know there are mothers out there that could care less. At least I know that mine does...even if she is a mixture of Claire Huxtable, Annie Camden, and those sitcom moms from the 50s...lol

Anyway, so before we hung up tonight, she asked me who I was going to vote for. Of course, I'm not going to reveal who I'm going to vote for. The only one that will know that is going to be the machine. Since I didn't tell her, she started on this "You need to vote for ______" trip. Then after she finished that, she got on this "Are you even registered?" thing.

After convincing her that I am, she emphatically told me to "Vote! Vote! Vote!" Mothers! Gotta love 'em. Even when they nag. :)

Happy Halloween

Hello to everyone out there in the blogosphere! Just wanted to wish everyone




I found this funny...lol




If you (or your kids) are going trick or treating, enjoy yourself, get lots of candy (save me some), and be safe!

No, No, No

Earlier this week in my Musical Monday post, I psted Michael Jackson's "Thriller". I was doing my usual surfing not too long ago and came across the fact that today is the 25th annoiverary of the release of the "Thriller" album.

Apparently, they are re-releasing it with a bunch of remixes by a bunch of different people.

WTF?!?

Why can't people leave well enough alone. The reason why the album did so well, is becsue it is good music. Remixes are utter crap. Now, I haven't listened to these things, yet, and I will hold my judgememnt until I do, but this should not have been done.

If you're going to re-release an album, fine, but don't go adding remixes. ESPECIALLY, if they're by other artists.

UGH! This is so frustrating!

Huh?

Early this morning, as I was rolling around half asleep and half awake trying to get up, I heard that some town somewhere has passed a law saying that candy cannot be given out on Halloween becuse it's unhealthy.

Ok...enough is enough. I understand the health kick and whatnot, but good grief! Do they really need to take away what is arguably the most fun part of Halloween? If I had a kid, I'd take them to another town and trick or treat!

Some people need to keep their mouths shut

A few weeks back, everyone was all over Dancing With the Stars dancer, Cheryl Burke about her weight. Apparently, she's not the only one who is criticized for being "fat". Her cast mate, fellow dancer, and So You Think You Can Dance alum, Lacey Schwimmer has also been accused of gaining too much weight. What makes it worse is that its not the media blasting her, but rather her own cast mates!

'Dancing With the Stars' professionals Louis van Amstel and Maksim Chmerkovskiy probably don't have many female friends.
The pros are both speaking up about fellow dancers, Cheryl Burke and Lacey Schwimmer, who they say need to lose weight.

"If you want to gain weight, it's your prerogative. We all put on weight because
there was no summer tour. But you have to deal with the consequences," van Amstel tells TV Guide.
"When I first saw these women this season, I said, 'Guys, you know the camera adds 10 pounds. You have to do something about this,'" Chmerkovskiy adds. "[People] look at this show to be inspired and think, 'If I just work hard enough, I can look like that.' If they watch someone who's
dancing her butt off and she's still heavy, they can be discouraged. You have to take responsibility," van Amstel finishes.

Now, I've already defended the gorgeous Cheryl Burke before in a previous blog, but this is what she has to say for herself.



As far as Lacey goes, would someone please tell me when looking like this meant you were fat?



Just like Cheryl, she has meat on her bones. Is that so wrong? To me, it just makes her look more like a real woman and not one of those Hollywood mutants that either starve themselves, live on cigarettes and alcohol, or puke up everything they eat...maybe even all of the above.

I may be alone in thinking this, but these two guys have issues. Perhaps they're jealous? I mean, Cheryl has won DWTS before, and Lacey is a top 4 finalist of SYTYCD. Before this statement, I had never really even heard of these guys other than their introduction on the show.

Don't they just sound so full of themselves, though? If I didn't know better, I'd say this was a sad attempt to garner some publicity for themselves.

NOTE: It has been brought to my attention that these comments were indeed taken out of contest, however, that doesn't excuse the fatc that someone twisted it into this, and as such I stand by my sentiments!

Bring the heat

Well, it dropped down in the 30s last night, so while I had been trying to keep from turning the heater on, because as many of you probably know, heat costs way more than A/C. Not to mention that this is La., and as soon as you get all used to the cold, it'll turn back to summer-esque weather.

For instance, when I was in college and the first cold snap came very year, the dorms would switch the heat on and in the next couple of days it'd be back up in the 80s, but the heat would be on in all the buildings. They said its some switch that has to be flipped in the main office and that they can't flip it back and forth wily nilly because of costs or something. So, they'd rather put all the students, staff, visitors, and faculty in misery. I wonder if any of the other schools in the state, or even the country are like that.

Back to the heat, so last night, I turned it on. I'm not sure if I like the smell of the first time the heat is turned on in the fall/winter, but I don't hate it. Personally, I prefer the smell when you first turn the A/C on in the spring/summer.

Had to happen sooner or later

In my earleri post, "Hate and assasination", I discussed that there could very well be an assassination attempt on Obama. Well, it looks like there may have been a plot in place.

WASHINGTON – Two white supremacists allegedly plotted to go on a national killing spree, shooting and decapitating black people and ultimately targeting Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, federal authorities said Monday.

In all, the two men whom officials described as neo-Nazi skinheads planned to kill 88 people — 14 by beheading, according to documents unsealed in U.S. District Court in Jackson, Tenn. The numbers 88 and 14 are symbolic in the white supremacist community.

The spree, which initially targeted an unidentified predominantly African-American school, was to end with the two men driving toward Obama, "shooting at him from the windows," the documents show.

"Both individuals stated they would dress in all-white tuxedos and wear top hats during the assassination attempt," the court complaint states. "Both individuals further stated they knew they would and were willing to die during this attempt.

"An Obama spokeswoman traveling with the senator in Pennsylvania had no immediate comment

I know that there are those in this country that are backward hillbillies that think that only white men should be entitled to everything, but this is ridiculous. First of all, these men were talking about killing children on the way to an attempt to Obama. If they don't want him to be elected, then cast your vote for McCain, don't plot to kill children or the man himself. This just makes me sick, but the way race realtions are and have been in this country, I'm not surprised, and I hate to say that.

Sad, sad, sad.

Mascot decision

A few of my students this morning came to me crying saying that they're parents don't want them to go to a certain school becuse of the mascot. WTF?!?

How can you prohibit your child from going to a school just becuse of the mascot? The MASCOT!!!! Now, my college mascot was a Demon. A girl I dated told me that her parents didn't want her to go there because of its...um...demonic nature.

People, wake up! It's just a mascot! It's not like we went around sacrificing virgins, bathing in goat's blood, and engaging in Pagan rituals. Well, it is possible that stuff happened with some fraternities...lol

Now, I will excuse not wanting to go to a school like Ole Miss whose mascot is a REbel, but that's more about the fact that they fly the Confederate flag around like it's the US flag and not so much about the mascot.

Also, I can undersdtand not going somewhere that has a Native American mascot, if you're offended by them, however, just becuse the parents are offended doesn't mean the children will be.

This is their future we're talking about here. These schools are some of the best in the South, and they could possibly be denied the chance to go becuse the parents don't like the mascots.

Instead of possibly having the next Supreme Justice of the Supreme Court and Surgeon General (just picked a couple things off the top of my head), there will be a couple of professional grovery baggers.

Good job parents!

So, tell me, what do you think? Would you deny your children an education just becuse fo the school's mascot?

Musical Monday 9

Well, this week is Halloween, so for this week's Musical Monday, I figured I'd give you some Halloween songs. Enjoy "Monster Mash" by Bobby Picket & The Cryptkickers, "Somebody's Watching Me" by Rockwell,"This is Halloween" The Nightmare Before Christmas, "Ghostbusters" by Ray Parker, Jr., and of course Michael Jackson's "Thriller".

Just when I was about to get on my little soapbox

I was all set to rattle off a rant about how this year it seems like it's a cardinal sin to have 2 NFL games on at the same time down here this year, but just as I was getting my thoughts together, I flipped over and saw that there are indeed games on both stations, so I'll save that rant for another time.

Howver, I have to say, who decides which teams we get to watch? Down here in south La., they tend to believe everyone is a Saints fan. I'll get back to that in a sec. Usually, they also show the (Houston) Texans, or (Jacksonville) Jaguars. I know this has something to do with the area and whatnot. However, am I to belibe that Jacksonville is closer than Dallas or Tennesse? Why, man, why?!?

Back to the 'aints. I've lived in this state since 1988. Never have I been a fan of the team from New Orleans. Becuse of this, I have felt ostercized many times. Especially a couple of years ago when everyone thought they were God's gift to football and that they deserved to the Super Bowl. Here's a little tid bit of info. Not everyone that lives in a given area is a fan of the area team, and it is no team's birthright, if you will, to go to the Super Bowl.

Of course, as I write this, they are playing over there in London, while the more important team (Dallas Cowboys) are playing at home. Guess which one I'm watching! I'm actually surprised they're showing this game. Seems like they do all they can to NOT show the Cowboys in these parts. It's a conspiracy I tell you!

Ok...I forgot what else I was going to say, so I'll post this and maybe it'll come to me after a bit. Hope you all have a nice day!

Eye Candy vol 10

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Lunchtime humor

For all of you out there about to eat lunch remember to practice safe lunch. Use condiments! lol

yeah, bad joke, but can't we all use a little levity these days?

An alarming realization

This afternoon I was taking a walk as a way to get some exercise and fresh air. No big, right? Well, I passed by this house and all of a sudden the alarm goes off on the car and out comes the owner. She accuses me of trying to break in it and says that she's seen me try before and take off running. WTF?!?

I'm willing to admit that maybe I looked a bit suspicious seeing as how the alarm went off and I was the only person in site, but to say that I was trying to break into the car, let alone that I had tried before is a bit much.

Can we say paranoid?

I hate to talk bad about someone, but this woman seemed like she was just looking to start trouble. Guess that's what happens when you look like Dog the Bounty Hunter's Wife's long lost sister...lol

Anyway, I won't dwell on it. Just watch my step next time I walk over that way. It is a shame that people are like this these days, though.

Moving On?

First of all, let me say that high school football should NOT be played on a Thursday night. It just throws off the routine and makes Friday seem like a Saturday that you have to be at school or a Monday! Just wanted to get that out. I'm sure there are those of you out there that agree...or disagree with me.

Now...onto the point of this blog. Last night after returnign from the game and getting all my sudents on their way home the little woman and I headed home. She then proceeded to drop the bomb on me and get my thoughts on moving to Washington, D.C. becuse she found her dream job up there. Ofcourse, it's a government job, so there's all kinds of interviews and such. not to mention she has to apply for it.

I'm not opposed to moving to D.C., but I'm not exactly jumping up and down for joy. While Louisiana has its problems, it is much cheaper to live down here then it would be up there. On top of that, I'm not familiar with the school systems up there and as such I am not aware of any tests and certifications I may or may not have to have in order to teach up there. Also, there is this little thing called grad school that I am still looking into. The weather will also be a problem, not so much for me, but she's a HUGE Fan of hotness, and hates the cold.

Like I said before, she hasn't even applied for the job. I've been living down here in La. quite a while now. As a military brat (my dad was in the Air Force), moving is no big deal, but that was as a little boy. I've grown attached over the years. I guess if it comes down to the big move, it'll be just like it was when I went off to college. Time to move on.

Leave it to ESPN...

I was watching ESPN First Take which I recorded this morning and they got to talking about the University of TExas' quarterback, Colt McCoy and his decision to stay in school for his senior year next year.

Now, I don't know about you, but I alwasy thought that the thing that shoukd be first and foremost on your itinerary when you go to college is getting a degree. I know it was for me...even if it did take a little longer than expected.

So, you can imagine my chagrin when I hear them chastise him for his decision. What is so wrong with wanting to stay in school. I'm sure he does want to go to the NFL, but maybe, just maybe he wants to get his degree first. Everybody that goes in the NFL is going to be Peyton Manning, after all. It's good to have something to fall back on.

Iv just can't believe how both analysts said that he is making the wrong decision and should take the money. It was like they were saying he should take the money now and go back later. Wonder if they know that most people that leave college never make it back, including professional athletes!

So, as a native Texan and longtime Texas Longhorn fan, I tip my hat to Colt McCoy for making the right decision and putting his education first. ESPN analysts need to remember that while the guys on that field every Saturday are athletes, they are students first!

Confused and weary

Am I the only one who thinks that, judging by the media coverage, Sarah Palin is running against Barack Obama and Joe the Plumber and McCain are vice presidents? lol

It seems that way. I mean, everywhere I turn, its Sarah Palin this, Barack Obama that, Joe the Plumber this, John McCain that...oh, and Joe Biden scratched his head today!

There is such a thing as overexposure, and I think we've far surpassed that. I will admit that it has dyed down a bit since earlier this week. Part of that spike was due to her appearance on SNL, but still, enough is enough.

Let's just set up the polls, vote, and be done with this all. I know I dubbed her a MILF when she first got tapped as McCain's running mate, and I still give her that distinction, but one can only take so much!

Intriguing

I came across a video the other day that said that women's breast can be increased by drinking beer. Something about the hops reacts with the hormones or something.

In contrast, this morning I heard that drinking coffee results in losing cup sizes. Something to do with the caffeine and the same hormones.

I'm intrigued. Supposedly, these have been proven. Not qite sure how much truth there is to either, but hey, it's still intriguing that someone actually took the time and spent the money to fund research into this stuff...lol

Rank

woohoo!

Those of you that use entrecard know that ads pretty much run the site. While this is true, I don't go around buying up random ads just to improve my rank. I was reding someone's blog this morning and saw that they realized they were in the top 5 on the mixed bag category.

This blog falls in the same category. I was curious, so I looked for myself and foud that I was on the second page in terms of most popular and page 5 in terms of biggesrt advertisers. Not to shabby if I do say so myself.

So, thanks to everyone that advertises here, has advertised here, or hasallowed me to advertise on their blog. Without your help none of this would have been possible.

Now, let's see if I can get up to the top!

They can't be serious!!!!

With the release of High School Musical 3: Senior Year this week, there has been nothing but talk about how big it is, blah, blah, blah. I don't deny the fact that it is a money making machine and is probably responsible for the resurgence in movie musicals. That being said, I've heard and/or read many tales of how it is this generations Grease. Even worse, they think it's better.

The comparison is not without merit. I can see the correlation, but to say that it is better is just not right. For one thing, Grease was a legitimate Broadway musical first. Second, the songs and music are more memorable. Third, Grease was a one shot deal. (Grease 2 was some anomaly that shouldn't have been made). It was not meant to be a money making machine as High School Musical has turned into.

I don't want to sit here and sound like I totally hate High School Musical, because I don't. I don't love it, but I don't hate it. I think it would have been better served as a one shot deal, though, but because it was so popular, they thought it needed a sequel. Seems to me that is the thing to do in Hollywood nowadays. A movie has a bit of success,and studios scramble to make a sub par sequel. This was no exception. High School Musical 2 wasn't anywhere near the level that its predecessor had attained. It felt like it was rushed, but that could just be because of the high expectations it had to live up to.

Yeah, you can make a case for High School Musical as this generation's Grease, but you won't catch me making that comparison. HSM just doesn't measure up to the standard of excellence that Grease attained. Not to mention that fact, Grease didn't need 2 sequels and constant shoving down every one's throats to leave it's mark. Tell me, in 20 yrs, which will still be remembered, Grease or the High School Musical movies? My money would be on Grease.

They can't be serious by comparing these two!!!!

Annoyances

Am I alone in saying that I'm ready for this election to be over. Seems like its been going on forever and there is no end in sight. Well, I take that back, 13 days left, but mark my words, they're going to drag on forever and a day. On top of that, as soon as it's over, we'll be forced to analysis of every move that the winner is made and how the loser lost. Basically, we won't be through with this stuff until the man is inaugurated!

As much as I wish the election would just be done and over with, I think I'm more annoyed with those notices about the big TV switch over. Apparently, the governement has nothing better to do than make a law that says all televisions must switch over by February 18, 2009. These things have been coming on for about a year now and are even scrolling across the bottom of the screen like its something majorly important. I think by now, people that are goingto switch will switch. If not, then they'll just be out of luck when they turn their TV on in February. No need to make the rest of us be subject to these things. Enough is enough!!!!

Thin, but non-anorexic actresses do exist

Maybe some of you out there in blogging land can help me out. A friend and I were having a conversation about the state of actresses in Hollywood and such. We both agreed that we're fans of curves, as most guys are. However, we got on the topic of actresses that are too skinny. The issue is, as much as people defend actresses that put on a pound or two and chastise those that lose 20 lbs in a week, we totally forget those that are naturally thin. This caused us to rack our brains. What actress can you think of that is naturally thin and not anorexic?

There were only 2 1/2 that we came up with.

Cameron Diaz


Not really sure how naturally thin she is, but she was a surfer girl back in the day, so that may be a reason, but as you can see she's very thin, but no bones sticking out and she's far from being anorexic.

Stacy Kiebler



Legs for days! She was in WCW and WWF(E), competed in Dancing With the Stars, now she's an actress, but before all that she was a dancer and model. Like Cameron, she's thin, but not anorexically thin.

Bet you read earlier and saw the 1/2, right? Well, its debatable about Kierra Knightley.



She says she's naturally thin, and she very well may be, but she seems to be shrinking with each role she takes on. Just look at the three Pirates of the Caribbean movies. She's noticeably thinner in the third installment, then she was in the first. So, it's a toss up on this one, whether she's a healthy thin, or borderline anorexic. Mayhaps its a mix of both?

Other noticeably thin, non-anorexic actresses that I just thought of, Anne Hathaway, Kate Beckinsale, Diane Lane, Eva Longoria,Debra Messing, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Sarah Jessica Parker, Uma Thurman, and Gwenth Paltrow. These are all women that are thin...although Anne hasn't always been as thin as she is now.

Guess what I'm trying to say is that we forget that each woman's body is different and that we can't just assume they're anorexic because they're thin!

Don't you agree?

Obama's grandmother

Apparently, Barack Obama's grandmoher has fallen ill and he will be suspending the campaign this week to return to Hawaii and visit her. This is very commendable, but we all know that McCain will turn this into some kind of negative and twist it into something else so that he can attempt to get som momentum. That's just the way this campaign has gone. It's a shame. I hope i'm not right.

Soundtrack of my life (jazzy version)

I had so much fun with this thing, that I decided to do a jazz/musical/TV, movie, cartoon theme version

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE SOUNDTRACK BE?
So, here's how it works:

1.Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2.Put it on shuffle
3.Press play
4.For every question, type the song that's playing
5.When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend your cool... and alot of the songs fit with the setting

Opening Credits:
Joy Spring- Clifford Brown

Waking Up:
Turn Me On- Norah Jones

First Day At School:
Cut the Cake- Tower of Power

Falling In Love:
Dreamgirls from Dreamgirls

Fight Song:
Latin Dance- Bob Mintzer Big Band

Breaking Up:
Johnny One Note- Ella Fitzgerald

Prom:
Channel One Suite- Buddy Rich Big Band

Life:
El Nino- Michale Brecker

Mental Breakdown:
It's De-Lovely- Cole Porter

Driving:
Sweet Sue, Just you- Miles Davis

Flashback:
Time Out- Count Basie

Getting back together:
So This Is Love from Cinderella

Wedding:
It's Been a Long, Long Time- Harry James

Birth of Child:
Lady of Spain- Les Paul

Final Battle:
Back Bay Shuffle- Artie Shaw & His Orchestra

Death Scene:
Stompy Jones- Duke Ellington

Funeral Song:
Lucky Man- Dave Koz

End Credits:
Santa Fe from Rent

how odd. as much Louis Armstrong as I have on this playlist, none of it came up. oh well. Bet most of you never heard of most of this, but oh well, I had fun with it! :)

Soundtrack of my life

Just a little something to pass the time. Hope you enjoy!


IF YOUR LIFE WAS A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE SOUNDTRACK BE?
So, here's how it works:

1.Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2.Put it on shuffle
3.Press play
4.For every question, type the song that's playing
5.When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend your cool... and alot of the songs fit with the setting

Opening Credits:
This House- Tracy Spencer

Waking Up:
Out of Touch- Hall & Oats

First Day At School:
Famous- Puddle of Mudd

Falling In Love:
Longer- Dan Fogleberg

Fight Song:
The Jump Off- Lil Kim

Breaking Up:
Just a Girl- No Doubt

Prom:
Midnight Train to Georgia- Gladys Knight & the Pips

Life:
Paradise City- Guns N Roses

Mental Breakdown:
Let's Chill- Guy

Driving:
Falling Down- Duran Duran

Flashback:
Heartbreaker- Pat Benatar

Getting back together:
Life is a Highway- Tom Petty

Wedding:
I'm Gonna Love You a Little Bit More- Barry White

Birth of Child:
Ebony & Ivory- Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder

Final Battle:
Dancing on the Ceiling- Lionel Richie

Death Scene:
Diggin' on You- TLC

Funeral Song:
Paranoid- Black Sabbath

End Credits:
Survivor- Destiny's Child

***NOTE: I have nearly 5000 songs in my library, so these are wha came up with this particular shuffle. Sorry for the lack of newness.

My debut album

1 - Go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random
The first random Wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.
2 - Go to Random quotations: http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3
The last four words of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album.
If you want to do this again, you'll hit refresh to generate new quotes, because clicking the quotes link again will just give you the same quotes over and over again.
3 - Go to flickr's "explore the last seven days" http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days/
Third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover.
Put it all together, that's your debut album!!

This is what I got:

Marton Railway Station: "The Blindness of Strangers"


Thanks to Bass-ically Speaking for this. Pretty cool, huh? Don't forget to tell me what you get!

Musical Monday 8

This week's entry into the Musical Monday series is another feel good song. Those of us who grew up in the 80s will remember El Debarge's "Rhythm of the Night." Enjoy!

Debarge Rhythm of the night

Wicked Weather Woes

Ok...nothing really wicked, but with cold temps comes a laziness that doesn't exist when it's warmer. Maybe I'm just weird, but when the temps drop, it gets harder for me to wake up becuse I'm all snug in the blankets. How about you?

Eye Candy vol 9

Female Hottie: Britney Spears


What guy didn't drool over Brit back in the late 90s? Then she got married, had a couple kids, let herself go (thanks K-Fed) and was in a downward spiral. Recently, she's gotten divorced, returned to the studio, and has been back in the gym working hard to get her rock hard bod back.

Male Hottie: Hugh Jackman


Best known for his role as Wolverine in the X-Men movies, Hugh will be reprising that role in the spin off film in the spring. Hope you gals enjoy his beefed up bod!

Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Dania Ramirez


The random hottie for this week first came to my attention in X3: X-Men United. Currently, she plays Maya on NBC's hit show (and one of my faves), Heroes.

MILF: Brooke Burke


Can you believe this woman has 2 kids? Currently atop the leaderboard on Dancing With the Stars, and best known for her modeling work and host of E!'s Wild On, Brooke is some tasty eye candy and a true MILF!

Classic/retro Hottie: Carolyn Jones


You probably know her as Morticia Addams from The Addams Family. How can anyone who has watched her float in that show not say she's a hottie? She's gorgeous! That willowy figure was slightly exaggerated, but not much. Does anyone else think she resembles Christina Ricci?

Learn to drive

I am not the best driver in the world. I admit that. As a matter of fact, I hate driving. Today I was nearly in a wreck because of some hot shot.

People need to learn to drive! First of all, it's dangerous to be weaving through traffic, especially when driving through the city. It's a little more acceptable on the interstate where one has more room.

Secondly, if you're driving a piece of tin, save your money and get a newer, better model, or at lest some decent work done on it. I don't understand why this person's car looked like Frankenstein, but had a shiny, new pair of mufflers, complete with noise polluting loudness!

While he was weaving, it seemed like he was in the biggest rush to get somewhere, yet when all was said and done, he ran smack dab into all the red lights, and then a train. A lot of good all that weaving did you, dude! tell you this, though, if he had caused me to have a wreck,I would be tracking him down!

UGH!!! I hate people that get in such a rush that they ignore the rules of the road and everyone on it!

Cool

Finally fall has arrived! Cool weather is here. Well, what passes for cool down here in Louisiana...lol

I walked outside this morning and it was quite pleasant. Then at lunchtime it wasn't much warmer. I can't tell you how ecstatic I was about tht. Tonight's game will definately be jacket weather.

Of course, knowing me, I'll end up sick next week! Let's hope not!

Hate and assasination

In my relatively short amount of time on this Earth, I have witnessed varying acts of dislike, distaste, and distrust. Hate has happened, but it's never been malicious, unforgivable hatred. Now, I have stated before, and will say it again, this is not a political blog, and I plan to keep it that way. There are plenty of those out there already. However, I can't sit by and let this pass without some type of acknowledgement.

This election has definitely brought about some of the underlying issues we have in this country that have never been addressed before now. One must wonder, if Hillary would have been running instead of Obama, if issues pertaining to gender would have arisen.

The candidates both promised to run a clean campaign when they unofficially won their nominations this summer. However, since then that has not been the case. As a matter of fact, McCain has run almost all negative ads since then. CNN had a chart up yesterday and it was like 61% negative ads to Obamas 41% (don't quote me on those numbers).

I understand that you want to make your opponent seem unfit to win this election and whatnot, but some of the tactics McCain has been using have caused what can only be described as a scary turn in people.

Don't believe me? Read this article by Frank Schaeffer (a Republican, btw):

John McCain: If your campaign does not stop equating Sen. Barack Obama with terrorism, questioning his patriotism and portraying Mr. Obama as "not one of us," I accuse you of deliberately feeding the most unhinged elements of our society the red meat of hate, and therefore of potentially instigating violence.

At a Sarah Palin rally, someone called out, "Kill him!" At one of your rallies, someone called out, "Terrorist!" Neither was answered or denounced by you or your running mate, as the crowd laughed and cheered. At your campaign event Wednesday in Bethlehem, Pa., the crowd was seething with hatred for the Democratic nominee - an attitude encouraged in speeches there by you, your running mate, your wife and the local Republican chairman.

Shame!

John McCain: In 2000, as a lifelong Republican, I worked to get you elected instead of George W. Bush. In return, you wrote an endorsement of one of my books about military service. You seemed to be a man who put principle ahead of mere political gain.

You have changed. You have a choice: Go down in history as a decent senator and an honorable military man with many successes, or go down in history as the latest abettor of right-wing extremist hate.

John McCain, you are no fool, and you understand the depths of hatred that surround the issue of race in this country. You also know that, post-9/11, to call someone a friend of a terrorist is a very serious matter. You also know we are a bitterly divided country on many other issues. You know that, sadly, in America, violence is always just a moment away. You know that there are plenty of crazy people out there.

Stop! Think! Your rallies are beginning to look, sound, feel and smell like lynch mobs.

John McCain, you're walking a perilous line. If you do not stand up for all that is good in America and declare that Senator Obama is a patriot, fit for office, and denounce your hate-filled supporters when they scream out "Terrorist" or "Kill him," history will hold you responsible for all that follows.

John McCain and Sarah Palin, you are playing with fire, and you know it. You are unleashing the monster of American hatred and prejudice, to the peril of all of us. You are doing this in wartime. You are doing this as our economy collapses. You are doing this in a country with a history of assassinations.

Change the atmosphere of your campaign. Talk about the issues at hand. Make your case. But stop stirring up the lunatic fringe of haters, or risk suffering the judgment of history and the loathing of the American people - forever.

We will hold you responsible.

I'm not writing this to tell you to vote for Obama, or to denounce McCain. My sole purpose is to get my feelings about how his negative campaign has brought out the worst in people.

On top of all this, a friend of mine brought about an interesting point. Martin Luther King, Abraham Lincoln, John F. and Robert Kennedy all were involved with getting all people civil rights. Now, Obama isn't exactly a civil rights activist or anything, but he is a black man, and we know that there is someone out there plotting to assassinate him, especially if he wins.

Scary part about what my friend said is that he may be right. Shh...don't tell him I said that, though. Hopefully though, that won't happen.

Well, thanks to all of you that have read this. Sometimes, even I have to make a political statement.

Offended by the autism chapter in Dennis Leary's new book

Dennis Leary has a new book that is coming out, or has already come out which includes a chapter where he more or less says that parents of autistic children or liars.

"There is a huge boom in autism right now because inattentive mothers and competitive dads want an explanation for why their dumb-a-- kids can't compete academically," he writes in the tome (as excerpted by the New York Post), "so they throw money into the happy laps of shrinks to get back diagnoses that help explain away the deficiencies of their junior morons."

Oh wait, there's more

"I don't give a [bleep] what these crackerjack whack jobs tell you -- yer kid is NOT autistic," he says. "He's just stupid. Or lazy. Or both."

Now, I'm overly-offended by this due to the fact that my little brother is autistic. My parents aren't lying about that, Mr. Leary. Just because he's a bitter, cynical, man whose career is stalled so much because he's no longer relevant, doesn't mean that he has to go around making these accusations. Perhaps he should do something about getting Rescue Me's ratings up, rather than saying that a serious medical condition doesn't exist.

The Autism Society of America has taken issue with Leary and have released the following statement:

"to suggest that families or doctors conspire to falsely diagnose autism is ridiculous . . . [His] remarks reflect the same misconceptions of autism being caused by bad or unemotional parenting that were held over 50 years ago, misconceptions that have been completely disproven by the scientific community."

I wholeheartedly agree. Just goes to show you how uneducated some people. Maybe he should have done some more research on the topic before making it a whole chapter that will no doubt piss off people with more power than lil' ol' me!

I've never been a fan of Leary, and this surely doesn't make me want to see any more of his work. As a matter of fact, it makes me sorry I paid to see the Ice Age movies!

Must be the thin air

There must be something about that thin air up there in Colorado, because I know I wouldn't have chopped off my finger to play football, especially when I could have had the option of surgery instead. This dude is just crazy!

Hair-raising

A while back, I blogged about how schools have stubborn dress codes. Well, guess what, there is more to that. The Tampa Rays have made the playoffs for the first time in their short history. Needless to say, the city of Tampa is excited about that fact. One of the characteristics of the players is a "Rayhawk"(fancy name for Mohawk or fauxhawk, depending on who's wearing it). A student at a jr. high in the area decided to cut his hair in this style and, guess who decided to freak out about it and put him in suspension until it grows out? That's right, his school! WTF?!?

Last I heard, his parents pulled him out of the school and enrolled him in another one that doesn't have a problem with individuality. Of course, the school released some sort of politically correct statement saying that it was understood in the dress code....blah, blah, blah, yada, yada, yada....and we support the Tampa Rays wholeheartedly. What a load of b.s., huh?

Would someone please tell me how hair can be distracting? I mean, unless it's like 10feet in the air and the person sitting behind you can't see the board or something, then I don't see the problem.

You can read the article here

Hump Day

In looking through many blogs, I come across entries entitled "Wordless Wednesday". Fear not, I'm not going to add those to my weekly series, but I have become curious. We tend to call Wednesday, "Hump Day". Has anyone ever bothered to ask or wonder why?

Wedensday is the middle day of the week, so the term "hump day" is meant to signify that we are getting over the hump. however, some of those that have their mind in the gutter, have turned it into a sexual connotation. Isn't that sad?

Well, to everyone, I wish to...um, wish you a



Hope you have a good day!

The infinte wisdom of children

What is it about kids? Does their lack of worldliness make them see things through different eyes and thusly give them infinite wisdom?

Last night, I had the oh, so pleasant task (note the sarcasm) of going to a school board meeting. Near the end, a little girl went up to the podium and addressed all that were there about voting.

Now, the fact that a little girl is talking to what was mainly a senior citizen audience about voting was odd enough, but what she said is what prompted this entry.

She urged everyone to vote for the right person, not because of their political affiliation, skin color, what gossip they hear, impersonations done on late night TV, religion, to keep the the other guy from winning, to see more of Sarah Palin, or who they're friends are voting for.

Wow! If only us so called "adults" would listen and take heed.

She then went on to inquire about what it is about a person's skin color, age, and sex that makes them worthy or not worthy to be president. She then concluded with a rundown of what politics has become and basically called out the school board for being just as corrupt as the government.

Afterwards, everyone except the members of the board gave her a standing ovation. I don't need to tell you that they looked like they had just eaten a bag of lemons!

I must say, I was very impressed with this little girl. She's getting taught something at her school or at home, or both. Guess public school isn't as bad as they make you to believe down here...lol

Children are wise, maybe we should do more listening to them, before they become stupid teenagers...lmao

TV curse

After the major power outage that resulted from Gustav, those of you that actually pay attention to these entries will remember that I was having problems with my television.

Well, the TV phantom has returned as this afternoon when I came home, I tried to turn on my TV and for some reason it wouldn't come on. For some reason, I pressed the menu button and miracukously, the set comes on. Now, we're back to those funky issues that it was having last month. UGH!

Hopefully I can remember what it was I did to fix the issues last time. I think it's just striaght up time to invest in a new set!

It's a holiday?

Does anyone else know that today is Columbus Day? I didn't know until they said it on the news this morning. How sad is that? This is supposed to be a holiday, but it gets very little recognition, unless you work at the post office or something. Damn...that means my Netflix DVD for this week will be a day later. GRRR!!!

Anyway, I was just wondering. I kinda feel bad for not knowing its a holiday. Maybe I need to get a calendar...lmao

Musical Monday 7

Remember Beetlejuice? If so, then I'm sure you'll love this week's entry into the Musical Monday series. Another feel good (and calypso) song. Let's all "Jump in thr Line"

Eye Candy vol 8

Female Hottie: Beyonce


What can I say about this woman that hasn't been said? She burst on the scene at the end of the 90s with the group Destiny's Child, then after a few years struck out on her own with a solo album, acting gigs soon followed, as did the cover of Sports Illustrated. Did I mention the girl is successful and has curves?!? Jay-Z is a lucky man!

Male Hottie: Jake Gyllenhaal


Ladies, wipe up your drool. You know Jake. He's been in quite a few films. If I'm not mistaken, he even went full frontal nude in Jarhead. His sister doesn't look to bad. I'm sure she'll be making an appearnace in the future.

Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Kirsten Dunst


Kirsten's a child actress that has grown up on screen in front of our eyes. Remeber the little girl opposite Tm Cruise and Bradd Pitt in Interview With a Vampire? Look at her now! She earned this spot becuse this week I watched Spider Man 2. Personally, I think she looks better as a redhead.

MILF: Catherine Zeta-Jones


Why she married Michael Douglass is beyond me, but CZJ is definately a MILF. Think I'll go watch Chicago sometime this week, or even better The Legend of Zorro.

Classic/retro Hottie: Bo Derek


The woman that was once revered as a perfect 10. Last I saw her, she was playing the mother in law on 7th Heaven. Didn't look like she aged more than maybe 5 yrs. It's no wonder they called her a perfect 10. As long as she keeps those beads out ofher hair, she gets no less from me!

Warning block

Ever notice how that when you watch a DVD and you get to the FBI warning, they don't let you fast-forward through it (or the 50 other languages they translate it into). That little red warning sign just pops up in the corner when you do. Why is that?

I started to watchPulp Fiction this afternoon, and I happen to have it on VHS. Don't ask me why I haven't upgraded to the DVD of that classic yet, but rest assured I will. Anyway, the FBI warning came up and I was so happy to be able to fast forward through it and get on to the movie.

Seriously, does anybody really read that thing? Why do DVD makers feel the need to block being able to fast forward or skip through it? AS far as I know the only way to skip it is to go through the scenes and, if necessary, back up to the beginning. Just my observation. Am I the only one that's noticed this?

Poor Cheryl

I've made it no secret that I don't care for reality TV, but there are a select few that I will give the time to. Dancing With the Stars is one of them. Aside from the celebrities, I enjoy looking at the women. Hey, I'm a guy, what do you expect. MY favorite is Cheryl Burke


I was watching GMA this morning and she was basically having to defend herself for taking some time off and gaining 5 lbs! 5lbs? Apparently, people are so fickle that if a woman gains 5 lbs these dyas, she'll be called fat! It's almost as disgusting as the AIG CEO's!

Cheryl has always been the curviest of the dancers, which maybe why I like her the best. I like curves, not bones. However, she took some time off and gained a few lbs. What's so wrong with that? For that matter, who says she has to look like the others? Her curviness makes her unique.

Whatever bloggers, pundits, critics, or whoever that think she's fat need to get over themselves. Chances are they're probably 400 lbs living in their parents basememnt just looking for something to criuticize to make up for their miserable life!

You can read the articale about Cheryl here

Disgusting

While I'm getting ready for work in the morning, I catch a bit of Good Morning America. This morning, they and the usual stuff...weather, debate recap, the economy is going to hell and this.

Am I the only one who's totally disgusted by this? These fat cats running AIG have used that government money to take trips and get pampered. And for what? What do they do that entitles them to a pampering? Oh, I know....they drove their company to financial ruin and had to be saved by the government.

I know one thing, if I was a CEO, I'd be more worried about saving my company than running off to a luxury resort...on taxpayer's money, nonetheless!!! How's it feel to know we're paying for these idiots to get the royal treatment?

I don't know about you, but I'm quite disgusted. Not just because I'll probably never be able to afford such a retreat, but because it's my dime they're going on. Someone's head better roll for this. That bailout money wasn't to be used for this. This is like using a student loan check to but nothing but alcohol rather than pay for books and tuition! UGH!

Defending the Disney Princesses

I'm a fan of all things Disney(not so much Hannah Montana, but hey, I can't like everything, right) So, last night I was looking up some info on upcoming movies. In my search, I cam across an article saying how racist and unrealistic movies are today. Specifically referring to each Disney princess. WTF?!? I can't find the site, but here's what I can recall about what was said about each princess.

Snow White

She's fat! WTF?!? I'm not 100% sure, but I seem to recall her age being between 14-16, so of course she's gonna have some meat on her bones. When did that become so wrong? Also, she's far frm being fat.


Cinderella

Can't remember exactly what was said about her, but it was something about the blonde hair and blue eyes. Is there something wrong with that? Was she supposed to have the same hair and eyes as Snow White?


Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

She's a clumsy, lazy bitch! Apparently, pricking your finger on a spinning wheel makes you clumsy and lazy.


Ariel

She's too skinny and needs to put some clothes on. I agree she could do with some meat on her bones, but she swims around all day. Is she supposed to look like Ursala? As far as the needing to put some clothes on...well, when was the last time you saw a mermaid swimming around with a flannel shirt on or something? Seriously!


Eilonwy

Chances are you dont know who this is. She's from The Black Cauldron (not exactly the most poular of the Disney movies)
Anyway, the comlaint about her was her name wasn't easily said and she was another blonde. Her name!?!? Seriosuly?!? Next!

Jasmine (my personal fav princess)

I remember this one almost word for word...She's showing too much skin, she's not dak enough, shes not weairing a veil, her hair isn't long enough, and she doesn't have a mid-eastern accent, and she's too volumptous and bouncy. My guess is that whoever wrote that article I was looking at last night must've been of Mid Eastern/Indian decent or has some issues with those that are becuse it sounds like he was deeply offended by the site of her.


Meg

She's a slut. Umm...not quite sure I agree...but I don't totally disagree, becasue that's her character.


Esmarelda

She can't dance and there wre no gypsies in France. I'm not so sure about there not being gypsies in France, since she is a character in the actual book, and as far as the not being able to dance...well, that sounds like he was just trying to find something to pick on her about

Mulan

She's too "mannish". OMG! She's impersonating a man to save her father, of course she's gonna be mannish. WTF?!?


Pocohontas

I don't too much care for this movie, but still, there's no need to say she needs to lose some muscle tone becuse she looks like an Amazon bodybulder type rather than a Native American princess. She's supposed to have some definition, like Ariel, she doesn't just sit around a castle all day, but to call her an Amazon is ridiculous.


Lilo & Nani

As with Snow White, he seems to think they're fat. Unlike with Snow White, they're supposed to be a little more "realistic". Of course, the artist that drew them also seems to like drawing big butts...lol

coming soon...
Tiana (The Frog Princess 12/25/2009)

yes...this will be a 2-d hand drawn movie *GASP*

His complaint was that she looks like an ape from the side and has too many ethnic features. Of course, I could go on for a whole differet blog on the stuff I've heard and read about people complining about this one and how many times they've changed it. My personal opinion is ther'es nothign wrong with her, and until the movie actually comes out, there's no reason to complain

Rapunzel (2010?)

She's not blonde, she looks too fat, her hair is too short, and Kristin Chenowith's (Glinda from Wicked and she also is in Pushing Daisies) voice is going to drive him insane. Ok...dude complains about the others being blonde, but has a cow about Rapunzel? From this pic, you can't even reall see ho long her hair is. I would wager this is early on and her hair gets longer later on. Not goingto diginify the weight comment. She thiiner than Snow White. WTF?!? As far as Kristin Chenowith...I can see how it can get annoying, but so can anyone else's.

So, as you can see, the guy that wrote this had some issues. Notice Tinker bell was left off. He had nothing bad to say about her. It was actually quite grpahc in the praise he gave about her and what he wante to do to her. I'll leave it at that.

I respect other people's opinions and all, but good grief, there's no need to go about criticizing stuff just fr the sake of it. Each of these characters was created by different artists ant different periods of time and also represent different cultures and eras. The Disney people knew what they were doing when they created them. Besides, they're for enjoyment and entertainment, not criticizing.

Paris and dogs

I was flipping through the channels this weekend and came across two shows that just irked me to no end. One was the Fido Awards.

I'm not a dog person in the least. As a matter of fact, I detest the dirty little creatures. Don't judge me, I'm a cat person. My feelings aside, what have dogs done to get an award show that other members of the animal kingdom haven't? Nothing, that's what. Since this was on Nickelodeon, I'm sure it was kid related, but still. What was the point?

The next thing that got my goat was a show where Paris Hilton is looking for a new "bff". As if we need to see this parasitic, no-talent hack more than we already do, they decided to give her a show!!! Not just any show, a reality show where she's looking a for a bff. I thoguht shows where they search for true love were bad, but to search for a best friend in this matter might just be worse! Ugh!

Needless to say, I didn't give either the time of day other than a quick glance during my flipping. I didn't want to lose any brain cells by watching them!

The art of Sara(h)

At one time I was engaged to a woman named Sarah. She had blonde hair and blue eyes. Last night, I was watching Chuck, and the character Sarah on there had blonde hair and blue eyes. Almost all of my friends named Sara(h) have blonde hair and blue eyes. This got me to thinking. What is it about the name Sarah that all but requires you to have blonde hair and blue eyes? A friend of mine and I were talking about this last night, and it's not just me. Wonder if it spreads to other parts of the country and even the world!!!!

Sarah Palin, while she doesn't have blonde hair, does indeed have blue eyes.

Musical Monday 6

I figured this week, I'd lighten things back up, especially with all the negativeness that went down last week with the econonmy and today doesn't seem like it's going to be any better. Enjoy and remember, "Don't Worry, Be Happy!"

Band kids gone wild!!!

An article posted here really bothered me. As a former band student, I know the rush one gets from performing in front of thousands of fans every Saturday. Not to mention, the recruiting that each performance does for the school.

According to the article, the Badger band has the equivalent of a rap sheet and these latest activities were just the nail in the coffin. While I understand the decision to suspend the band, I can't help but feel for those that kept their noses clean. They're being punished because of the stupidity of others.

I can just hear that phone conversation to their parents. I would imagine some irate parents and alumni will do something about this, but then again you never know.
It's really sad this had to happen, but you know what they say, any publicity is good publicity.

Can't argue with that logic. Why else would there be an article about a band on ESPN.com? The only time they mention the band is when they show clips of the California running back running through the Stanford band or they show clips of the Bayou Classic between Southern University and Grambling State University.

Of course, this will all be forgotten by Tuesday at the latest, except for those that attend Wisconsin. Hopefully they'll learn from this.

Eye Candy vol 7

Female Hottie: Scarlett Johansson


Sadly, fellas, she just got married last weekend, but we can still bask in her hotness, right?

Male Hottie: David Boreanaz


Probably best known as Angel from TVs "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Angel", he is currently starring as Special Agent Sealy Booth on Fox's hit show "Bones". Hope you enjoy ladies.

Random Hottie from a movie or TV show seen this week: Tiffany Amber Thiessen


Who can forget the wholesome girl next door from "Saved By the Bell", Kelly Kapowski? Well, as you can tell from this picture, she's all grown up! After "Saved BY the Bell" Tiffany went on to various other roles in shows such as "Beverly Hills, 90210" and the recent "What About Brian". She also had a major role in "The Ladies' Man." She earns this spot, though, for the role we all know her for, playing Kelly Kapowski on "Saved By the Bell".

MILF: Melissa Joan Hart


The world was first introduced to Melissa on Nickelodeon's hit show, "Clarissa Explains It All." She then went on to star in "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch." Since that show ended she has mainly been focusing in her family and production company, but has graced us with her beauty on screen in bit parts and guest spots. She has 2 films set for release in the coming year, and judging by this picture, having 2 kids didn't make her lose her hotness. I still can't believe she's a mom, though!

Classic/retro hottie: Lynda Carter


In case you don't know Lynda Carter, her big claim to fame is that she played Wonder Woman in the 70s TV series. Also, I believe she was a spokeswoman for contacts in the late 80s. Would you trust those baby blues to just anyone? She is definitely a classic beauty!

Oh, how I miss high school

As a high school teacher, I get to see first hand all types of things that I didn't get to experience during my times in those days. Watching these students makes me miss high school.

Today is Friday, we had a pep rally, and there's a game tonight. The football players are in their jerseys. Cheerleaders are wearing their uniforms. Band kids are in the band t-shirts.

I swear sometimes I wanna pull my horn back out, out in a uniform and get out there with them. Sadly, those days are over.

I know I'm not alone in thinking this, but high school was some of the best times of my life. not to mention the fact the the country was in better hands back then...lol

Oh well, its always fin to reminisce, right?

Layaway

I kinow in this time of financial uncertainty it's probably not the best to ask this, but does anyone remember layaway? I remember going to Wal Mart and being able to put stuff on layaway. A while back I saw a sign on Wally world that said layaway would stop layaway services. I wonder why they did that. Something tells me, this holiday season, they're really going to be missing it. Just a thought.

Wooden waste

It's been just under a month since Gustav came tearing through here. Things are back to normal. Well, at least over here, but we weren't affected to bad except for the power going out for the week.

During that week, I listened to radio (what else was I going to do?), and the mayor-president kept saying that the debris would be picked up ASAP. well, it still hasn't been picked up. However, that's not what this blog about. I don't live in a house, so I have no debris (or yard)...lol

Everyday I take a walk after I get home. It's very relaxing and good exercise, if you haven't tried it. Anyway, I noticed all the wood on the side of the road, and got to thinking. Why not chop it up and use/sell it for firewood?

I don't know if it would make good firewood, but these trees look like the kind of logs most people use in the fireplace, so I don't see why not. On top of that, it would get the stuff off the side of the road.

I guess that would make too much sense.

Pull up your pants!

A few weeks ago, I actually wasted 2 hrs of my life watching the VMAs. One of the performers on there was Lil Wayne. This man is a very talented rapper and I believe he won quite a few moon men that night. His performance appalled me, though. It was good, don't get me wrong, but he had no shirt on and his pants were hanging below his butt!

I realize that I'm coming off sounding like an old man here, but I don't care. As an educator, I have to enforce the dress code. I guess today is sag day, because I've already sent like 7 or 8 boys and 1 girl to the office for dress code violation.

Now, they have to wear uniforms down here. I'm not a fan of that, and usually give them a bit of leniency, but I can't ignore pants hanging off your butt. Baggy is ok. Hell, I even wear baggy pants. But, there is a difference between saggy and baggy.

Whoever it was that started this "fashion" needs to be drug out into the street and shot. While you're at it, take whoever it was that started the trend of cocking your hat to the side, too.

...and for goodness sakes, PULL YOUR PANTS UP!!!!!