I was just thinking...

The two faces of Michelle Bachmann

2011-08-10T11:25:00.001-04:00

Apparently the darling of the "Tea Party" speaks from both sides of her mouth.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/10/michele-bachmann-stimulus_n_922851.html

I swear, this woman has more nerve than a bad tooth!

Christian terrorist?

2011-08-01T05:04:00.001-04:00

There is this debate about the maniac in Norway that killed all those people. He is a "Christian" and a terrorist. Bill O'Reilly made the statement that you can't believe in Jesus and commit mass murder. Hello?? For YEARS "Christians" blew up abortion clinics killing doctors and patients. They had decided it was a bigger sin to kill a fetus than to murder an adult.

Terrorism, people. Same damn thing.

Am I the only one?

2011-06-05T12:10:00.002-04:00

I just saw a blurb on the internet about Leonardo DiCaprio and a woman (apparently associated with "Gossip Girl"). I had always thought he was gay. (Not that it's a bad thing...I just thought he was gay.) I do know for certain that he is a horrid actor.

And THAT is what I am thinking today...

How could I NOT post?

2011-05-20T09:34:00.000-04:00

My thoughts on Judgement Day/ "Rapture":

Matthew 25:13

New American Standard Bible

"Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour.

King James Bible

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

American King James Version

Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man comes.

American Standard Version

Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.

Douay-Rheims Bible

Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour.

Darby Bible Translation

Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.

English Revised Version

Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.

Webster's Bible Translation

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of man cometh.

World English Bible

Watch therefore, for you don't know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.

Young's Literal Translation
'Watch therefore, for ye have not known the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man doth come.

If I am to believe what Jesus said, I think that there would not be a bunch of "hints" in the Bible indicating the day, hour, timezone for the day of judgement. What I gather from Scripture is that because we don't know the time or day that we will meet God, we should always be prepared. There have been dire predictions before and there will be dire predictions in the future. If your heart and mind are ready, it really doesn't matter when, does it?

Let me say this about that

2011-05-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

I caught Donald Trump's announcement and here are my feelings on "The Donald" and his feigned exploration of candidacy for the office of President of the United States:

There are a large number of uneducated, unsophisticated citizens of our country that might have voted for him. I have to believe (I am such an optimist) that sanity would have prevailed and the rank and file of the Republican party would have figured out that he is an ill-mannered, egomaniacal, pompous jerk and he would never have made it past New Hampshire. (Then again, Dick Cheney was the Vice President...)

Personally, I would rather pour gasoline over myself and light a match than watch "Celebrity Apprentice" or any other "Apprentice" show. I would sooner stand in the path of a freight train than go to one of his casinos.

Donald Trump is an ass.

Dinnerware (and other stuff!)

2011-05-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

I think I mentioned on this blog before that I have a real concern with products coming out of China. China is a country that poisons its own citizens. How can they possibly be trusted not to be poisoning ours? To that end, I have been doing some research. One of my greatest concerns about products from China is the manufacture of dinnerware - plates, serving pieces, etc. - and plastic storage containers. I have been moving to storing my leftovers in glass for a while now but it is very difficult to find products that are not being manufactured in China. Yes, I know there are supposed to be inspections and rules that Chinese manufacturers are to follow but I don't trust them. Am I paranoid? Maybe just a bit but I would rather be paranoid than to risk lead (or any other) poisoning. At my age, I gotta hang on to all the memory ability that I still have in my head!

I discovered this website: www.stillmadeinusa.com

I was surprised to find that there are still lots of products being manufactured in the United States. If you have an interest in supporting businesses in our country, please visit the site. (And please continue to boycott Walmart)!

Osama Bin Laden

2011-05-05T15:31:00.000-04:00

I have been reading various comments regarding the termination of Bin Laden. The sqawking that is making me the most crazy centers around the idea that he should have been captured and brought to trial. People are suggesting that the premise of justice in our country specifies that one is innocent until proven guilty. I have just a couple of thoughts about that and this particular terrorist.

Bin Laden admitted his guilt so there wasn't any need to prove his guilt. Where exactly would one find a "jury of his peers"? I am pretty sure if we knew where they were they wouldn't be available for a court date. Where would you go to find someone who has never heard or read about Bin Laden? How could you possibly imprison Bin Laden? Some kooky bunch of terrorists would kidnap some hostages and then want to negotiate his release and the US doesn't negotiate with terrorists.

Seriously, folks need to get a grip on the fact that sometimes there are circumstances outside the norm and there is no playbook. There is a war on terror...or so the Bush administration tried to tell us. In war people get killed. It isn't pretty and it isn't "fair". It's war. Our government did what needed to be done.

Here's what I am thinking today

2011-04-14T09:54:00.000-04:00

Just because you can make something using burlap doesn't mean you should. I'm just saying...

Dear Ms. Palin

2011-01-18T09:03:00.000-05:00

Please just be quiet. I am asking nicely. When you speak you either sound like you have no sense or you say something so bizarre it is scary.

Thank you for your time,

I can't believe I FORGOT to post about this!

2010-10-25T16:00:00.000-04:00

Too bad SF Giants beat the Phillies but just knowing the Rangers are going to the World Series makes me happy. That's it. Nothing else earth shattering that I am thinking about.

Wait! That's not true. I am thinking about bed bugs and the fact that they are in lots of places in NY city. Eeewww. Philadelphia has them, too. I am not leaving Womelsdorf. We don't have a hotel, motel or movie theatre. I feel safe...

Trounced them!!

2010-10-19T09:27:00.000-04:00

I went to bed very early last night so I didn't hear anything about the Yankees/Rangers game until this morning on my way into work. I nearly wrecked the car!! Doing the dance of joy here!

(Sorry, Chad & Brian - your mama loves you but you KNOW how she feels about the Yankees!!)

At the risk of annoying my sons

2010-10-16T08:16:00.000-04:00

Go Texas Rangers! Put on your big boy underwear and beat those darned Yankees!! (And, yes, this probably has more to do with Alex Rodriguez than anything else. I just can't forgive him for lying to Mariner's fans.)

It's midnight and

2010-09-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

there is one of these in my bedroom

Can you say "eeewwwuuu"? I loathe stink bugs. Ugly, prehistoric, creepy little bugs.

Think I will get much sleep tonight?

Apologize

2010-06-17T15:07:00.000-04:00

for making BP pay for their stinking oil spill? Is it any surprise that the Republican congressman that apologized for the Obama administration's insistance that British Petroleum set aside funds to pay for damages is a ranking member of the Energy committee and represents Texas?

Suppose any Big Oil money has been in his pockets? I'm just saying...

Oil fiasco

2010-06-15T18:18:00.000-04:00

Folks getting all worked up with President Obama regarding the oil spill? Exactly what would they like him to do? Pitch a fit? Please explain to me how that will solve the problem.

Notice Dick Cheney is keeping quiet on the subject? One word - Halliburton.

Sisterhood

2010-04-29T13:42:00.000-04:00

I had an incredible experience last weekend with 3 women whom I have known for years. We were all members of the same parish in Virginia. At present time, one is the wife of a bishop, one is an Episcopal priest and one is the daughter of an Episcopal priest. We gathered at my house for a weekend "Spring Fling" since I am located in the middle geographically.

On Saturday night and over many glasses of wine, my love life (or lack thereof) became the topic of discussion. I knew they were curious but at the same time I also knew these women were asking questions because they are concerned about me. The discussion went from here to the moon and back. Somewhere in the midst of questions and sharing, there was a realization that we were sharing "God moments" and they were ministering to me.

The bond of sisterhood and a common belief system were so incredibly powerful. I felt as though the cloud had lifted and the light was shining on me. We all knew we were experiencing power beyond ourselves, beyond our collective selves. Truly, for the first time in a really long time, I feel like I have a plan and a direction. They assured me of my worth as a woman, as a friend and as a child of God.

I am so thankful that these women remain in my life after years of separation, many miles and life changes. Again, I am reminded of God's grace.

When does the craziness stop?

2010-04-13T15:22:00.000-04:00

He said exactly what I am thinking!

http://www.deusexmalcontent.com/2010/04/rebel-baseless.html

Because it is making me crazy

2010-03-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

I have been reading a lot of blogs that use this phrase when they want to highlight something: "Wa Lah!" For the love of Pete! It is "voila" (with a little accent mark over the a if your computer will do that for you.) It is a French word. It means "to see".

I realize that it is a small matter, especially in light of the craziness going on in our country with homegrown terrorists and inflamed tea baggers. I know that most readers just move past the phrase and keep on reading.

It totally drives me around the bend. Maybe I just need a nap.

Remember when...

2010-03-30T09:35:00.002-04:00

Remember when "family values" was the theme being touted by the Republican party? Apparently not so much anymore: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/03/30/MN3M1CMTME.DTL&type=politics

Reality show?

2010-03-05T06:10:00.000-05:00

Sarah Palin wants to star her family in a reality show. I can't write anything about it. My head is spinning. I think I need to lay down.

Convert?

2010-02-14T06:03:00.000-05:00

In my spam box I discovered an offer to join a Catholic dating service. Wonder if I would have to convert or if they would take an Episcopalian? (My geometry teacher in high school referred to Episcopalians as Junior Varsity Catholics!)

"Tea Party"

2010-02-07T08:20:00.000-05:00

I swear that if I see one more article about Sarah Palin and the Tea Party I will start screaming. Elect new representative for Congress if you don't like what we have. My biggest problem with the Tea Party? Sarah Palin is their hero. For the love of Pete...

And, Sarah - Rush just used the "R" word the other day. When does his castigation begin?

I'm gonna tell you a little secret

2010-01-26T16:33:00.000-05:00

When I am having a really bad day, I check out People of Walmart.

Pat Robertson

2010-01-14T19:00:00.000-05:00

scares me. He obviously does not follow the teachings of Christ. You know, love one another? Not Pat. Pat likes to pass judgement. Pat declared that Haitians made a pact with Satan and that is why the earthquake hit. He said it right there on the 700 Club.

If I wanted to pass judgement on Pat Robertson I could say that he is bat shit crazy. However, I am called by my faith to be compassionate. I just feel very, very sorry for old Pat. Maybe he should retire.

Resolutions

2010-01-03T04:52:00.000-05:00

I don't "do" New Year's resolutions. The past few years I have had no real goals, no real plans, no real thoughts about the future. The last time I was really excited about the beginning of a new year was 2000. It was the beginning of a new decade and the real beginning of my new life in the Pacific Northwest. I started that year with hope and joy and my heart was truly filled.

These many years later I found myself in a very sad place. My heart was not filled with joy or hope. My only goal was to get from one day to the next. I was living in a place surrounded by beauty and could not see it. I could only think about the past and how much I missed Seattle.

Perhaps it is because this is the beginning of a new decade or maybe it is because I am finally finding myself again. For the first time in a very long time, I feel hope. I feel joy. I have a sense of energy. Life is not perfect but 2010 will bring good things.

I am looking forward to the birth of my newest grandson and all the excitement that entails. I am so happy about my little business and thinking about ways to get my name and my products "out there". I am excited about the changes that are anticipated by the company that I work for and how those changes will impact me. I am looking forward to adding a deck to my house and maybe even adding a fireplace of sorts. I am delighted about the gazillion yards of fabric in my studio and all the quilts that I hope to complete this new year.

2010 brings the "re-NEWed" Suzan. I am pretty excited about seeing her again!!

Electricity

2010-01-02T05:11:00.000-05:00

Effective January 1, 2010, all rate caps came off electric power in the Commonweath of Pennsylvania. Know what that means to me? No more hot water in my laundry, no shower more than 2 minutes long, everything I have plugged into an outlet is on a surge protector unit with a shut off button to totally stop power supply to anything that I am not using. It means no baking and turning off the extra little refrigerator.

It also means that if you come to visit me, be sure to come between the months of April & June and September & October. Winter months you will need to bring heavy socks and slippers, sweat pants and sweat shirt and, for good measure, a blanket. In the summer months, be prepared to remove most of your clothing.

Did I just misunderstand?

2010-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

I read that different US government agencies do not share terrorist information. I also read that persons on the "watch list" do not show up for screening by the airlines. Homeland Security? My ass...

Last Sunday in Advent

2009-12-20T15:05:00.000-05:00

I am sitting in my living room listening to the church bells play a series of Advent hymns. During the next week they will start to play Christmas carols on the bells and I can barely wait. I need a little Christmas - right this very minute!!

Just get it done for Pete's sake!

2009-12-14T05:37:00.000-05:00

Yes, I do believe we need a health plan in this country and I am pretty anxious that Congress finally makes a decision. I think that anyone who is not farsighted enough to think that they might loose their employment and consequentially their heath care is foolish. There is no safety net and COBRA costs a freaking fortune. Say you have had a one of the many "pre-existing" health care issues and you change jobs. No health insurance. God forbid you have ever had cancer and try to change jobs and insurance coverage! This why it makes me crazy when anyone balks against the idea.

Who's gonna pay for it? Hell, who do they think pays for every indigent that does not pay for their hospitalization now? My brother has no health care, had an emergency and went to the hospital. They had to admit him. He was there overnight and had a battery of tests run. Guess who is paying for his trip to the hospital. EVERYONE else! He surely isn't! This happens in hospitals every day all over the country and help created the health care crisis in this country. A plan just makes so much more sense. Working citizens are paying for the health care of the poor, unemployed and uninsured right now. Let's just get real about it.

Sarah's badmouthing Katie Couric

2009-11-13T12:43:00.004-05:00

I read that Sarah Palin badmouthed Katie Couric in her new book. Damn that Katie Couric for using big words and asking what periodicals Sarah reads!

Strangely, nothing bad about that boy that got her little girl pregnant. Could it be that he really DOES have some dirt he could throw around? (I'm just asking the question...)

WWJD?

2009-11-12T16:08:00.000-05:00

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/11/AR2009111126806.html?g=0

Go to this link and note the sign that the protester from Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas is holding. I thought the underlying premise of Christianity is to follow Christ. Could you even imagine Christ telling someone that "God Hates You"?

It's an ugly, ugly world and it hurts my heart.

Need a motivational speaker?

2009-10-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

President George W. Bush is hitting the motivational speaking tour. You can hear him speak for $19. That isn't for each person - that is $19 for your entire office.

I think that is still too much to spend to listen to GW...but that's just me. If George and Laura are looking for some additional income, maybe they can just borrow some from Dick Cheney. The whole war in Iraq (protecting oil fields) has worked out pretty well for him.

Roman Catholic Church to accept Anglicans

2009-10-20T16:12:00.000-04:00

Boy, do I have a lot of questions about this new development! Does this mean Anglicans will have to stop birth control? Can Anglicans still get divorced and remain in communion with the Church? Does anyone else think that Roman Catholic priests will be annoyed that their brother Anglican priests are allowed to marry and have children? Are there no gay Roman Catholics or Anglicans? Where will Anglican's money go...Anglican or Roman Catholic Church? Will young men who are considering the priesthood jump ship from Roman Catholic to Anglican so that they can avoid the celibacy issue? Who will church property belong to...Roman Catholic or Anglican Church?

My head is spinning. I can't wait to ask my Roman Catholic friends about this change!

The Bible

2009-10-18T07:26:00.000-04:00

Hey! Don't like what the Bible says? Well, go ahead and write yourself a new translation! I can only shake my head in disbelief.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/editorialsopinion/2010079847_pitts18.html

“Balloon Boy”

2009-10-17T12:51:00.001-04:00

Apparently there is a special announcement coming from the parents of the child now called “balloon boy” after he supposedly drifted off in the family’s hot air balloon. What I would like to hear is a special announcement from the federal government regarding this entire flaky mess, one with a price tag attached. Helicopters were scrambled, police and rescue personnel were chasing the balloon and the media was eating it up. The family got lots of concern and subsequent publicity.

Just how much did this bit of foolishness cost?

Wacky Weather

2009-10-14T15:16:00.001-04:00

This is our forecast for Friday

Forecast Details:

Rain and snow. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 30s.

We still have lots of green leaves on the trees here. Snow this week? What kind of craziness is that?! We had a very cool, wet summer. It’s like we are skipping a couple of seasons this year – from spring right to winter.

This does not bode well for my electric bill. Think I will order a “Snuggie”!

So here's what I think...

2009-10-10T07:59:00.000-04:00

I think President Obama should acknowledge the Nobel prize for peace and then graciously ask that the award be presented to someone else. I admire the man and the job that he is trying to do (though I do think he keeps biting off bigger chunks than he should attempt at one time). Awarding the prize to him at this point is premature.

Perhaps it is a call to leadership in the world and the promise of a better future for all. I believe he will prove himself a great leader but an award of this nature needs to be earned. The President has not earned it...yet.

Thankful

2009-10-07T12:58:00.000-04:00

I am having a very good day today. I am thankful for a dear friend, happy memories and very, very long telephone conversation. Hope you are having a great day wherever you are!!

Fox "News"?

2009-10-04T06:55:00.000-04:00

They play the Fox "news" channel at work every day. Most days it is all I can do to keep from screaming and running out of the room. Not necessarily because of what is actually being said on the television but the follow up comments coming out of the mouths of the mental giants eating in the lunchroom...but I digress.

I read the Seattle newspaper on line every morning. Call it a link to the past if you will. At any rate, I read Leonard Pitt's piece this morning and wanted to share in case you had not seen it in your newspaper.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/editorialsopinion/2009990542_pitts04.html

Fair is fair.

Apparently I have been in a coma

2009-10-03T11:18:00.000-04:00

Did you know about Hulu.com? I didn't until I read about it on someone's blog and I am officially hooked. No more missing something on tv that I didn't see because I fell asleep on the couch or went to bed too early. No more feeling sad because I don't have the cable upgrade to watch HGTV and the Food channel. This morning at 3:30am I watched last Thursday's episode of "Grey's Anatomy" and then "Private Practice" because I crashed at 7:45 Thursday night and missed them both. Later today when I am sewing in the studio I am going to watch "The Office" and "The Mentalist". I think I will watch a little Vern Yip tonight...like all of the episodes they have!

Check it out and save a bundle on your cable bill!

Eeeewww!

2009-10-02T04:25:00.000-04:00

David Letterman just admitted that he had affairs with women on his staff. Affairs with women means there was more than one...with David Letterman. Can you wrap your head around that? I can't. I mean he is funny and he makes me laugh but do the horizontal mambo with him? Eeeewww!

Just one of those days

2009-10-01T12:35:00.000-04:00

This morning my cell phone was charging in the dining room. I left for work and stopped in at McDonald's for a sugar-free, non-fat, vanilla latte. I suddenly remembered that I didn't have my cell. I pulled out of MickyD's and zipped back up to the house. I parked and reached for my keys. Crap! I grabbed the wrong ones this morning - the ones WITHOUT a house key. So my cell phone is still on the dining room table and the cat is probably freaking out.

Thankfully, my parents have a key to the house so they are going over to unlock for me. If I would have had to call a locksmith I think I might have cried. It's just going to be one of those days, all day!

Something a little different

2009-09-30T05:06:00.001-04:00

I have worn acrylic nails off and on for years. I have soft nails that tear and growing them out to a decent length just doesn’t work. I also have a problem with nail biting (I know – disgusting habit!!) that goes back to my childhood.

With my crazy schedule lately, I have not had time to do the upkeep on my acrylics so I pulled them off. My hands looked terrible until last night.

About a month a go, my daughter in law told me about Kiss glue on fingernails. For $5 a pair I thought I would give them a try. I got the short length since really long nails make me crazy.

Here is the link to their website. (They have prettier pictures on their site. I think the box shown here is old packaging.)

If my camera wasn’t 2 floors below I would take a picture of them on my hands. They look fabulous! The package says they last for 7 days but my DIL says usually 10 days. They also have them for your toes so you can have a pretty French manicure on your little piggies, too!

They go on really easily because they have little tabs to hold them in place while you glue them (no glue stuck to the ends of your fingers!) It took me about 10 minutes to glue them on since I had to try the different sizes to see which ones fit which fingers the best. So much nicer than sitting in a chair with nail dust flying around you for 60 minutes. For convenience alone, I think these guys are totally worth giving a try!

Now, admit you are surprised that I am not making any snide comments about Sarah today!

Sarah’s memoir

2009-09-29T13:06:00.001-04:00

Sarah’s memoir is finished. She had a co-author and then spent several days at Harper working round the clock with the editors. Wonder how much of Sarah is really in this book?

She has difficulty stringing together several words into an intelligible sentence. How could she write a book? (I’m just saying…)

Sarah's globetrotting...

2009-09-23T15:31:00.000-04:00

I read that Sarah Palin is in Asia (getting some much needed stamps on her passport). Wonder if they would like to keep her?

My Keds

2009-09-12T09:32:00.002-04:00

When I moved to Seattle I discovered Costco. I love Costco. We don't have one near here. Well, there is one in York but that is a heck of drive to pick up groceries and whatnot.

I moved to Seattle a little over 10 years ago. Not long after I moved there, I purchased a pair of leather Keds at Costco. I love these shoes. I love the way they fit my feet. I love the classic look of them, sort of timeless. I just discovered that the leather has pulled away from the rubber on one side. I will keep my shoes but only for yard work. I will miss them being part of my weekend wardrobe. I think the thing that bothers me the most is that they are another piece of life in Seattle that I am losing. That hurts my heart.

Maybe I should make a trip to York.

9/11 Remembered

2009-09-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

I was living in Seattle. We were sleeping soundly when the phone rang. He jumped out of bed to answer the phone. He listened for a moment, had a very strange look on his face and then handed me the phone. "It's your mother." I said hello and my mother's first words were "It's bad out here. We are under attack. Turn on the television." I quickly hung up, grabbed a robe and headed downstairs. He had turned on the tv and was sitting in front of it with that same strange look he had when he talked to my mother. We watched, barely comprehending what we were seeing. It was surreal. It was confusing and frightening.

And then we saw the towers fall. The horror took my breath away.

We watched for hours and then he went to the Southcenter Mall as it was reported the Red Cross was there taking donations. Originally he was going to give blood but they said they didn't need that. They needed money. So we gave. And we prayed. It was all we could do.

I am remembering those today who lost their lives and those who lost their loved ones. I continue to pray for our nation and our leaders.

I love it when this happens...

2009-09-10T08:28:00.000-04:00

Looks like Mr. Wilson (Republican, South Carolina) my have stepped on his own foot!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20090910/pl_politico/26970

What's all the noise about?

2009-09-08T11:58:00.002-04:00

President Bush (younger) addressed the school children in 1991. It was available to all the schools across the nation. What's the big hooey about President Obama addressing school children? All the noise is nothing but right wing politics and bigotry.

Once again, America looks foolish in the eyes of the world.

New Phone

2009-08-30T19:04:00.002-04:00

I have a new cell phone. We changed carriers at work since the coverage we had with our other carrier wasn't adequate. Small problem - for the old phone I had two wall chargers and another one for the car. New phone came with one charger and guess where I left it? Yep, at the office. Now the phone is dead (the battery doesn't hold a charge worth a darn) and I am feeling pretty disconnected from the rest of the world. On the other hand, it is really quiet here!

Stupid is as stupid does

2009-08-18T08:21:00.004-04:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090817/ap_on_re_us/us_obama_protesters_guns

Why do you think these folks are showing up at rallies where President Obama is present? Bet they would want to shoot me if I burned the US flag which is a right afforded me by the First Amendment.

Read...

2009-07-30T06:56:00.001-04:00

Maureen Dowd's column on "Screechy, preachy" Sarah Palin today. All points well taken.

Weird happenings

2009-07-22T15:30:00.002-04:00

My house was originally built in 1900. It was sort of "rebuilt" last year. I have noticed something really odd since I moved into the house. Things unscrew. For instance, I cannot tell you how many times I have had to tighten the screws on the door knobs. I have had to readjust the float thingy in the toilet nearly every month. The handles on the bi fold doors to my closet have been tightened every week since I moved in. The handles on my dresser have unscrewed. Light bulbs get more and more loose until they don't turn on. So far, if a light bulb doesn't work, I just screw it tight and it is fine.

Wonder if I am sitting on some kind of strange magnetic field... Maybe I am just living in the Twilight Zone!

Team Sarah?

2009-07-07T11:48:00.002-04:00

From the Boston Globe:

Her core supporters, however, remain behind her. Team Sarah, a political networking site, claims 70,000 members.
"Team Sarah members anxiously await Palin’s next decision on how she believes she can best serve our nation. Since the 2008 election, the continual presence of personal attacks on both Governor Palin and her family indicate that she remains a threat to the liberal feminist political establishment,” the group's co-founder, Jane Abraham, said in a statement. “Despite criticism, Governor Palin’s success will endure. Team Sarah’s thousands of members remain as engaged as ever on TeamSarah.org. The Governor has inspired millions, and her audience of enthusiastic support will only grow in the future.”

Perhaps this group is "semi" correct. Sarah Palin is a threat. She is a threat to those of us who want an articulate, insightful, educated and diplomatic leader. Sarah Palin and her ilk are the reason we suffered through 8 years of George W. Bush and his miserable presidency.

Got me wound up now!!

Stuck in the 50s

2009-07-05T05:24:00.001-04:00

I know that I complain about where I live in Pennsylvania. It is an area that seems to be trapped in the 1950s. Conservative, misogynistic, racist, suspicious … all the worst parts of the 50s. Yesterday, however, I was thinking about the best part of the 1950s. Things like family, patriotism, faith and community spirit.

My little town has a church on the corner just 2 blocks from where I live. Every day, on the hour during the day, they ring the chimes for the number of hours and then play 2 or 3 hymns on the bells. Yesterday, the first hymn I heard was the “Navy Hymn”. Following was “God Bless America” and then “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”. Later in the day I heard “America the Beautiful”, “Faith of our Fathers” and a variety of other hymns that bring thoughts of God and country to the forefront. In the center of town is a very nice park. At the front is a memorial to those who have served in the military. Flags are always flown there but yesterday there were many, many small American flags and flowers in shades of red, white and blue. As I drove out of town to visit a friend for dinner, the entrance area and median strip were covered in American flags blowing smartly in the breeze. Last night when I returned home I saw children with sparklers and heard firecrackers late into the evening.

On days like yesterday, it really isn’t a bad place to live. I hope you had a wonderful Independence Day.

Just when you think you have heard it all...

2009-06-27T20:20:00.002-04:00

Rush Limbaugh has explained that Governor Mark Sanford went down to Argentina to meet with his mistress because President Obama drove him to it. Yes, the sleazy affair of the Governor of South Carolina is the fault of President Obama. It is ok to cheat on your wife, destroy your family because you don't like the administration.

Does anyone really take Limbaugh seriously? Apparently they did at C-PAC. Scary, very scary!

No, thank you!

2009-06-24T06:11:00.002-04:00

Some confused soul has subscribed me to Fred Thompson's PAC newsletter. It comes via email. Thankfully, it was easy enough to unsubscribe. I am pretty sure I know who did it as she has plagued me in the past with subscriptions to magazines. I was able to get that stopped by writing to the USPS fraud division. She was contacted and the subscriptions stopped. It would appear that this is her new method of asserting her less than sane behavior.

The only excuse I can give for her efforts is that she is young, immature and has trust issues. Sad when someone has too much time on their hands and no creative outlet. Maybe she should take up quilting!

I don't think so!!!

2009-06-17T06:16:00.003-04:00

I just saw the poster of a woman protesting outside studio where they tape the "David Letterman Show". Her sign: "We are all the Palins" just about sent me around the bend. Me, a Palin? Sorry, no! I read, I can string more than 2 sentences into an intelligent conversation, I am not a bigot or hate monger and I don't believe in hunting animals except for food. (I could go on and on but I won't!)

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-23T05:45:00.005-04:00

I am an Army brat. My father retired 42 years ago but I am still an Army brat. That is something that stays with you for your entire life.

I was raised on and off Army bases in the US and in Japan. I watched my dad jump out of airplanes. I played touch football on parade fields and swam in the officer's club pool. I went to 5 different schools when I was in the second grade. I played with other grubby kids and made forts in the woods near our quarters in Virginia. I discovered my first fossil when we were living in Kansas. I saw my dad in his dress blues and my mom in a beautiful formal going to the General's ball. I rode in a HU1D helicopter and was amazed that my dad knew how to fly that thing. I got out of bed very early one morning and watched my father leave for Viet Nam. I know first hand how scary it is when your father is half a world away, in danger every day and the only real communication you have is a letter in the mail.

For a number of people, Memorial Day is nothing more really than the kickoff of the summer barbecue season and a good opportunity to gather with friends and family. My hope is that everyone takes at least a moment today to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served and are serving in defense of our country and our freedoms. Please also remember the families of those that serve.

God bless America.

Please go away

2009-05-22T05:37:00.001-04:00

Know how former President GW quietly left office, moved back to the ranch and started bringing Laura coffee in bed? Why can't Dick Cheney just go away?

Please...

Got rain?

2009-05-04T14:51:00.002-04:00

We sure do! I do love rain so it isn't much of a hardship for me but it does make driving more of a challenge. Have you noticed there are still some bozos driving around in the rain without their headlights turned on? It is one of those things that makes me crazy.

On another subject entirely, on my way this morning to one of our company's other branches I saw a female mallard that had been chased onto the road by 3 male mallards. Some fool hit her which was awful and then I saw the males swarming around her trying to help her. I was informed they were not trying to help - they were trying to mate with her. I had a really tough time holding back the sexist comment that came to mind...

I've been biting my tongue for a while

2009-04-23T19:50:00.003-04:00

Am I happy that President Obama chooses to be in dialogue with foreign leaders as opposed to saber rattling and outright aggression? You betcha!

2009-04-10T06:12:00.001-04:00

40th Anniversary

2009-03-26T08:04:00.003-04:00

Today is the 40th anniversary of the release of "Give Peace a Chance", written by John Lennon. Isn't it about time?

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T05:50:00.002-04:00

I work in the beer industry. St. Patrick's Day seems to be the day for "pub crawls", green beer and Beamish/Guiness/O'Hara's. For me, it is the day for a glass of a nice white wine when I get home and that is just about it. (Actually, every day is a good day for a glass of wine when I get home!)

At any rate, I am not Irish so I do not wear green on St. Patrick's Day...and I dare anyone to pinch me!

My sweet baboo

2009-03-13T04:46:00.002-04:00

Today is my youngest son's 36th birthday. How can he be so old when I am so young?!! He is my "not normal" son (conservative vs his mother, "the crazy liberal"). He challenges me, makes me think and makes me laugh.

Happy Birthday, sweet boy!

GM and bankruptcy

2009-03-06T10:34:00.002-05:00

I posted this erroneously on my quilting blog. Sorry if any of you read me in both places. Suzan

Know what? Sometimes bankruptcy is the only option. The government gave them big money and that didn't work. How much more do we need to throw at them? Chapter 11 would force them to re-structure and new union contracts could be written. I can only hope the Obama administration hangs tough.

Constitution

2009-03-03T11:56:00.004-05:00

I think it interesting that the Republican Party has now decided to support the Constitution...considering how it was trampled on during the Bush administration. I also think it interesting that conservatives have no problem supporting the portions of the Constitution that they like and blatantly ignore the ones they don't.

Wind

2009-02-12T05:12:00.002-05:00

When I was a child, we lived for a time in Kansas. I have had a fear of high winds since that time. Certainly not comparing the winds we are experiencing here to tornado winds, I am more than a little freaked out this morning. It is dark outside and it is very windy. The house is moving with the wind and I don't like that.

I don't like it one bit.

And it begins...

2009-01-21T09:23:00.002-05:00

This is on the front page of the Huffington Post this morning

Can you feel it? A new beginning for our country. I feel such a sense of patriotism and energy and excitement. I know the tasks ahead are daunting but the possibilities and dreams for the future color my world for the moment. And I am thankful!!

Anyone going to the Inaugural?

2009-01-06T05:54:00.002-05:00

I would love to go but I think it is going to be totally crazy in DC and I will see much more by watching on TV. I am taking off on the 20th to spend the ENTIRE day in front of the television. My parent's will arrive about 10am for breakfast and mimosas. This will certainly be a party day for us!

(I was seriously thinking about putting bunting up on the front porch. Too much?)

Thanksgiving - January 1, 2009

2009-01-01T06:00:00.003-05:00

I greet this very cold morning with thanksgivings. I am thankful for shelter, warm clothing and food in my kitchen. I am thankful for employment, friends and a family that supports and loves me. I am thankful that I discovered a creative outlet that both entertains me and feeds my soul.

I hope you have much to be thankful for as we begin this New Year.

"Just plain wrong"

2008-12-31T04:48:00.002-05:00

Sounds like Bill Clinton, doesn't it? Anyway, I have a bug in my ear about something right now so I am going to share. (Such a treat!)

This crouton, the governor of Illinois (Rod Blagojevich), decided to appoint a new Senator to fill Obama's seat regardless of the fact that Blagojevic has been arrested for political corruption for trying to "sell" that same Senate seat. He named a man who appears to be decent, hard working and honest. Sadly, Roland Burris will most likely not become a Senator regardless of his attributes because of Blagojevich. Everything the governor touches at this point turns to poison. It wasn't bad enough that he tried to "feather his nest" with money and perks in his attempt to sell the Senate seat. A man who may have been a very good Senator will not have the opportunity to serve because he is tainted with the stink of association.

It's wrong, people. It's just plain wrong.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T13:19:00.001-05:00

WHAT?

2008-12-21T05:04:00.002-05:00

What is up with this? Snow all over the place in Seattle and we can't get a decent snowfall here in Berks County, PA? Oh, we are going to get a measly 2 to 4 inches today and that's it until who knows when. They changed the forecast from wintery mix on Wednesday to all rain as the temps climb into the low 40s. I am SO disappointed.

When I lived in Seattle we had about 2 decent snowfalls in a 3 year period. My mother would call me from Pennsylvania and say "It's snowing here!" just to annoy me.

Truth be told, I am just looking for a reason to have a couple of days off from work without it cutting into my vacation time. I hope it snows like crazy in January!!

Time for a change

2008-12-08T09:57:00.003-05:00

I have decided to stop coloring my hair and go "au natural". This has become an adventure as I am not really sure what color my hair is supposed to be. I have been coloring it since I was about 16. I LOVED me as a strawberry blond so (mostly) I have been blond for about 40 years. I looked closely at my roots, looked at my niece's hair and finally decided on a shade of brown that should closely mimic my own.

Yesterday, I dyed my hair "Acorn" brown. I started with the roots, smooshed it through my hair and waited out my 35 minutes. I jumped into the shower, rinsed and conditioned and then I pulled out my hair dryer. At first I wasn't looking too closely but then I saw patches of a blondish color. By the time I finished drying my hair, I resembled a leopard. Clutching my chest in a panic I remembered that a drug store is close by. I pulled on a hat and zipped across the highway. They didn't have any "Acorn" but they did have "Truffle". Close enough. I decided to wait 18 hours before re-coloring which I did this morning.
As I was exiting the shower, I was offering up supplications that the color was even, that not too much of my hair had fallen out, that I wouldn't look like an old hootchie mama. Then I stopped myself and said out loud "Don't be ridiculous!" I suddenly realized that there were lots more important things in this world than my hair and certainly people who are praying for heat, shelter and restored health. Praying for my hair color? I felt like an idiot!!

Next weekend I am having silver highlights added to my hair so that the "transformation" will be complete. Maybe I really AM an idiot!!

What IS it about "Thomas"?

2008-12-03T14:12:00.003-05:00

My grandson (My Little Sweet Potato) is a huge fan of Thomas the Train. I have discovered that there are lots and lots of little boys out there that love this train car and his friends. I have watched the program on PBS and several videos with MLSP. He is so delighted with the show, sings along, knows all the character's names, etc. When the program is on the television he is mesmerized. What is it about this train?

Am I the only one that thinks this program is a little creepy? (Maybe it is the narrator's voice.) It totally freaks me out!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T14:33:00.002-05:00

Have a wonderful holiday!

My computer

2008-11-23T07:36:00.003-05:00

My computer has started making some very strange noises. It sounds like a Cessna reving up for take off. I have a bad feeling that the hard drive is about to crash. Now I will have to unplug everything, drag it all downstairs and take it into my office so the IT woman can check it out for me. I guess it would be better to copy all the files off BEFORE it crashes.

I think I will be at Best Buy purchasing another hard drive this week. It's always something...

Anyone see "60 Minutes" last night?

2008-11-17T08:10:00.002-05:00

Barack and Michelle Obama - finally a "real" couple in the White House! I loved their easy bantering back and forth. I love the true affection and dedication they have to their daughters. I am so happy this man is going to be our President...or have I mentioned that before?!

The countdown to Thanksgiving has begun. Dinner is a my house with my youngest son and his family, my parents and my brother and his daughter. I already know who eats what...or won't eat whatever. I have lists with the menu and recipes. I have a list of what china pieces I will use. I have a check list with a timetable down to what linens need to be ironed and by what day. (I am SO anal about stuff like this. I keep notebooks with dinner party guests, menus, what worked and what didn't going all the way back to when I lived in Seattle.)

I do the 2-1/2 hour turkey baking recipe. Have you seen it? It is truly amazing and the turkey comes out so moist and delicious. If you don't have the recipe and would like a copy, let me know and I will send it to you. The best part is that if you only have one oven, you can get the turkey done and kept warm while you use the oven for other things!

Nothing

2008-11-07T05:45:00.003-05:00

I am not thinking about anything! I could bemoan the state of our economy or gloat over the in-fighting in the RNC. I won't - but I could. Maybe the Presidential campaign wore me out. Maybe I am still caught up in some post-election euphoria.

It's just not like me not to have something to bitch about...

OBAMA!!

2008-11-05T06:03:00.002-05:00

For once, I am nearly without words. I feel such a sense of joy and hope. I am uplifted and am so thankful that this historical event happened in my lifetime.

What I will be doing today...

2008-11-04T06:38:00.001-05:00

Anybody see Doonesbury today?

2008-10-31T08:41:00.001-04:00

http://www.uclick.com/client/wpc/db/

All I am going to say

2008-10-31T07:56:00.002-04:00

Did you see it?

2008-10-30T08:24:00.002-04:00

I was so touched watching Barack Obama's campaign "infomercial" last night. My heart swelled and my eyes filled with tears. I am so excited to be alive at this time in our country's history.

I cry when I hear the sound of "Taps". I cry when I see the color guard walk by in a parade and hear the "Star Spangled Banner". I get emotional when I watch Navy jets launching from the deck of a carrier. I love to listen to someone read the "Declaration of Independence" on July 4th. I think of myself as a patriot. I love my country and I know that I am blessed to live in America.

I truly believe my proudest moment as an American will be the day (God willing) we elect Barack Obama to the Presidency of the United States.

I am not above bribery...

2008-10-28T08:40:00.003-04:00

I just called my niece away at college. I told her after classes on Tuesday she needs to drive home to vote. If she does (I know whom she supports), I will give her a case of beer.

Is that wrong? (I don't care...)

Dan Quayle?

2008-10-27T12:48:00.003-04:00

I attended a wedding this past weekend. At the reception, I was talking with a friend and he said something that had not occurred to me. Sarah Palin is John McCain's "Dan Quayle".

Now - think about it - can you just imagine what would have happened if President H.W. Bush had been incapacitated in any way and Dan Quayle became president? Shudder to think about it?

Two words...Sarah Palin. To quote Yogi Berra, "This is like deja vu all over again".

Palin Problems

2008-10-24T09:55:00.003-04:00

Article entitled "The Trouble with Palin" from CNN:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/23/mann.ct.palin.clothes/

Another economic stimulus check?!

2008-10-23T06:11:00.003-04:00

I could use some new clothing and I definitely need a hair cut. Since the RNC won't send me any cash, maybe Congress will slip me a few bucks...

Gotta share...

2008-10-22T12:12:00.002-04:00

This would probably funny if Sarah didn't think it was true...

Discovery

2008-10-21T04:13:00.002-04:00

I woke up a litte after 3 this morning. I went downstairs to make coffee and empty the dishwasher while I waited for my first cup of consciousness. That took all of about 7 minutes. I hiked up to the studio (third floor), turned on the computer and read my email. Another 8 minutes or so. Then I read all the blogs I follow and made comments where I felt so inclined.

Now it is a little after 4am. Grace crawled up on my bed as soon as I got up so I have no cat issues. I could sew but I am totally unmotivated and I only sew when I feel like it. My house is clean, no dishes in the sink and I have nothing to do. Zippy...nada...zilch.

My discovery? It's damned boring at 4:15am when you live alone. Maybe I should get a dog...

The war in Iraq has nothing to do with my freedom

2008-10-15T15:59:00.004-04:00

There...I said it. Sarah Palin told a heckler today that her son was over in Iraq to protect the gentleman's freedom to protest (and presumably free speech). Damn it! The war in Iraq has nothing to do with freedom of speech in the United States. More freedoms have been trampled by this administration and their war on terror than have ever been upheld.

The underlying reasons for the war in Iraq are oil and oil profits. Securing Iraqi freedom from oppression and a pompous dictator was secondary.

I do support our troops. That is why I want them to return home. They are overworked and overburdened. I do recognize that they have done much to help the Iraqi people. I simply state that has nothing to do with my freedom in the United States.

Remember?

2008-10-12T09:11:00.002-04:00

Do you remember when the Republicans wanted to crucify Bill Clinton because he sought out the advice of Hillary and she was working on health care reform during his first term as President?

Todd Palin (First Dude, First Gentleman, whatever...) has full access to Sarah's office as Governor of Alaska, sat in on closed door meetings, made appointments to meet with various departmental heads referring to "we" when wanting something done, etc.

Guess that kind of access is only a good thing if you are a Republican and the husband of a pit bull in lipstick...

What a shocker!

2008-10-09T09:53:00.001-04:00

The NRA endores McCain. Like there was anyone else they were going to choose?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081009/ap_on_el_pr/nra_mccain

What about the AIP, Sarah?

2008-10-05T06:57:00.003-04:00

Have you seen this?

The unmitigated gaul of this woman to cast dispersions on Obama's loyalty to our country is so typical of this campaign. She makes me absolutely sick to my stomach.

Sarah and her husband were members of the Alaskan Independence Party (until the mid-90s, I believe). This group has been calling for Alaskan's to secede from the United States. There motto is "Alaska First - Alaska Always". Loyal to America, Ms. Palin? Apparently just for the past few years...

VP debate tonight

2008-10-02T06:23:00.005-04:00

and I will not be watching. I know that I would work myself into such a state of craziness that my blood pressure (which is excellent, by the way) would go through the roof and I would start talking to the television. Probably I would be screaming at the television. Someone once told me, "You know, Suzan - It's a TV and they can't hear you."

That very same person told me that he loved the degree of passion I felt on almost any subject...family, God, politics, life, etc. Sometimes I like the passion, too. Other times, it just is overwhelming. This political year it is killing me.

Am I the only one surprised by this?

2008-10-01T12:15:00.003-04:00

Sarah Palin was a journalism major.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h21ZbzgPbTVRftcJPT5vkHkonY5QD93HPC3G0

I would have thought that journalism and language skills would go hand in hand. Apparently I was mistaken.

Ya think?

2008-09-30T08:59:00.003-04:00

"Texas town votes to remove registered sex offender as mayor"

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080930/ap_on_re_us/mayor_abuse_case

Guess what I did!

2008-09-29T04:32:00.002-04:00

I didn't watch one minute of news or anything that resembled news all weekend. I ignored the news services on the computer. I didn't discuss the election or the candidates. I feel so rested, de-stressed and renewed.

Now if I can just figure out how to hide my head in the sand for another 5 weeks...