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It seems most everyone who came in contact with JP, have a horrible feeling about him. I remember reading about people in their neighborhood, after Susan disappeared, saying how they loved Susan but they couldn't go over that house anymore because no one wanted to be around JP. And I remember one neighbor telling about the time they went over to visit and it was very casual and summertime and he was in his bare feet sitting in the living room with others talking to Susan when JP came in the room and saw his bare feet on the carpet and flipped out. He started screaming in anger how he could put his feet on their carpet and now the carpet had to be cleaned. THAT is one mentally ill person to act like that. It is such a shame she married him so young before she could see him for what he was.
Diane
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An old HS friend of mine who lives in Utah, helped to search for Susan... he said Josh was a creep and he hopes he roasts in hell.
Christine
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This whole thing was so avoidable, too. The police said they were short on men so they didn't have the manpower to tail JP in the 24 hours after his wife 'disappeared' -- which is when he rented the car and drove hundreds of unexplained miles. If that one day, they had actually used ONE COP to tail him, they would have closed this case that day!! But because of their "budget", they had to spend thousands of dollars more in the past two years searching for her. The stupidity is astounding. I get so mad.
Diane
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Christine - Yeah, Poor Poor ME. That was JP's song. It was stinky. Poor him. The selfishness stunk like a junkyard. It's time like these when you want to turn back the clock and prevent Susan from ever even meeting this SICK SICK you-know-what.
Diane
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Christine - I also feared for the safety of the grandparents, too. How did so many observers notice how sick JP was yet the courts and police couldn't? In their effort to SUPER-prove everything, look who paid. I am full of grief and horror at what those boys went through when they were locked in that house with that monster with a hatchet. Imagine how the very loving grandparents must feel after learning that. The thing I try and focus on is that those children are NOT suffering now and area actually feeling such love and peace and are with their mother again. JP? no -- he did NOT take those boys with him because he is in the lower realms of hell and those boys are in higher realms with their mother. He must be wondering where they went and why they are not there with him. The selfish you-know-what!
Diane
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And I think that by killing his boys he felt he was getting back at everyone, including Susan. He got rid of her, he was going to take her children too.... I'm surprised he didn't go after her parents as well.
christine
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The terror those boys must have felt.... I don't even have words. They just played his final VM on CNN and I have no idea how those boys were allowed to go see him!!! I hope someone loses their job over this!
Christine
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Some people think Josh used the hatchet because he was full of anger at the boys because he heard they were starting to talk about the night their mother was killed. Apparently, they were forbidden to talk about her at Steven Powell's house and could not even look at her photos. It was only recently, when they felt such trust at their grandparents that they started to open up and look at her photo and talk about "mommy". At Steven Powell's house, if they spoke of her, they had to call her "Susan" so that's what they were doing when they first went to their grandparents. They only started to be happy little loving boys in the last couple months. And then selfish selfish sadist satanistic-Josh stole it from them. The brutal b*st*rd.
Diane
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kmp, rant on, I feel the same way. Maybe, as scummy as he was, no one really thought he would do this? Plus look at the stellar family he had. And what could her parents do, legally they were bound to the visitations, but I agree that someone has some explaining to do!
Christine
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KMP - Thank you for the common sense. You are so right and so many people are saying the same thing. There were LOTS OF SIGNS something was going to happen and I get furious reading "if only we had a sign". What is so stupid about some people?! I was shaking when I read about the hatchet. Who the hell chooses a hatchet as a murder weapon -- and against your two little sons???!!!!! A SICKO!! That psychologist should have strongly told the judge that Josh should not have contact with his two sons at that time until his mental health showed improvement. He obviously sent out some big red flags at his evaluation prompting the psychologist to recommend a psycho-sexual evaluation. AND...if not for Susan's Father, Chuck Cox, there wouldn't even have been the first psychological eval because Chuck is the one who asked the court to do one because he felt Josh was mentally ill.
Diane
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One of my questions is if there were warning signs: emails, voice mail left for more than one person up 20 minutes prior to the end, giving his boys' toys & books away, transferring his assets to another person & leaving instructions for handling his affairs, WHY did none of those close to him who received such messages try to get Josh Powell some help - or at the very least inform authorities of his actions/emails/voice mail messages? It's not like this appears to be a spur of the moment action - but rather a premeditated & calculating action. Despite what his sister & others say, there WERE warning signs that he was going to kill himself. All of Josh Powell's actions in the days - even minutes - leading up the final tragedy are signs of someone planning to commit suicide: leaving good-bye letters, etc; putting affairs in order; giving away possessions.Why would anyone doubt that he wouldn't/couldn't kill the boys at the same time? .....Sorry for rant.
kmp
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It appears he used a hatchet first on the kids... it just gets worse and worse the more I hear. http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hdsmBw-BPyD10-npi2dsPFsqcBiA?docId=13907733c7d442f5a2372e51d6f504f3
christine
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Oscar trivia: Luise Rainer who won two oscars in a row is still alive at 102! wow!
Christine
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Now I am reading the oldest son drew a picture at school of mommy in the trunk.
christine
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I only caught a few ads and wasn't over the moon about them. I guess I have come to expect so much.
Christine
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Saw some talk below of the ads during the Super Bowl. USA Today has a thumbnail and link to all of them on one page, and you can rate them. There are rankings there based on peoples ratings. http://www.usatoday.com/superbowl46/admeter.htm
Mike
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Christine -- thank you for the link. My heart breaks for the grandparents and aunt. Those boys were all they had left also of Susan. KMP - Thanks for the link!
Diane
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Sorry => forgot to paste that link in my last post: http://www.free-tv-video-online.me/internet/chopped/
kmp
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This link will give you the option of watching any episode of the past 5 seasons of "Chopped". You can watch other TV shows or movies also. You don't have to join the site officially to watch any - unless you choose to do so.
kmp
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Lisa, part of what I like about "Chopped" is the insane combinations and foods they come up with. They also use foods I have never heard of.
christine
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Diane: I think you can watch "Chopped" here: http://www.free-tv-video-online.me/internet/chopped/
kmp
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Diane, wait til you see the picture. http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/53454834-78/powell-josh-cox-chuck.html.csp
christine
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Christine -- Do you have the url from the piece you posted below? That article? I want to post it on websleuths. Thanks!
Diane
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It also sounds to me that this was getting to be a ritual with the grandparents having to talk the little boys into going to spend the visit with their father. That shows they no longer wanted to go. That's a BIG signal. Why aren't the rights of the children ever considered even when they are little?
Diane
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Lisa - The Ferris Bueller one is a hoot!! I've watched it twice.
Diane
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Also -- Josh could have killed just HIMSELF and not those children!!! Selfish sick you-know-what.
Diane
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Thanks for the premise, KMP! It does sound better than the usual programming that's out there. CHRISTINE - Oh my gosh, I choked up reading what you posted below about the boys crying and not wanting to go to their father's house on Sunday!!! And the grandparents had to talk them into it by telling them their father loved them -- and they ended up being killed there. I really do think, also, that kids have a strong ESP sense and sensed something wrong was going to happen. Oh my gosh. Those poor poor grandparents and poor aunt. Josh is a vile being who did not even deserve to have kids. I wish no woman had married him or conceived any of his children.
Diane
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Oh, and I thought the Ferris Bueller Honda commercial was the best one! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhkDdayA4iA
LisaG
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I sometimes watch chopped, but it can grate (cooking pun!) on me. I watch Big Bang usually with on demand, but always try to catch Hawaii Five-0 and NCIS LA the day of the show. Other than that, I stick with HGTV home improvement shows and only watch the news for local weather.
LisaG
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Oh darn, Hulu doesn't show the whole show of Chopped. Just 3 -6 minute excerpt clips. Hey....let me see if its on Netflix.
Diane
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Diane, that sauce was for the appetizer round! The show is fun and addicting.
Christine
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As Washington state authorities continued to investigate a Sunday house fire in Graham that killed Josh Powell and his two young sons, the boys’ grandparents said they had warned child welfare workers, their attorney and police that they believed Powell was capable of harming the boys. But Chuck and Judy Cox — who had custody of the boys — said Monday they did not think Powell could do anything bad during court-ordered supervised visits with his sons, 7-year-old Charlie and 5-year-old Braden. On Sunday, however, when the boys arrived with a social worker for just such a visit, the boys ran inside, Josh Powell locked out the social worker, then apparently splashed gasoline throughout the home and started a fire that burned the dwelling to the ground, authorities have said. "I guess it’s just sad it was at his house, which allowed him to set this up," Chuck Cox told The Tribune. Chuck and Judy Cox said the boys were reluctant to go on the visit Sunday. They had been playing with a young cousin and both cried about leaving. But Judy Cox said she and her husband were always able to talk the boys into going by saying, "‘Your dad loves you, [he] really wants to see you’ ... which really hurts, because look what happened." Chuck Cox called the murders "cowardly and senseless... It’s senseless to slaughter two innocent children. ... Clearly he had no interest in his children if he was willing to kill them." Powell was fighting an uphill battle to gain custody of his sons. He also was under suspicion for the 2009 disappearance of his wife, Susan Powell.
christine
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I've read that Nathan Fillion tried to get Robert S. Woods (OLTL's Bo) to join the cast of "Castle" on a re-occurring basis to play his (Castle's) father. Castle's parents are divorced, and his mother (Susan Sullivan) who is an actress lives with him and his college-aged daughter.
kmp
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I think "Castle" is good. It combines drama with humor. NF is a mystery writer who works with the police department. Granted it is reminiscence of Mystery, She Wrote but it also reminds me of the old Thin Man movies, starring Myrna Loy & William Powell. Even though there is a murder in each episode, it is not usually shown. The show also focuses on the relationships (interaction between) of the characters. Personally, I think that it is much more 'family-oriented' than many of the shows currently airing during the earlier 'family hour'. By that, I mean it's less gory, graphic, suggestive, etc. than say 'NCIS' is.
kmp
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KMP - Is Castle good? That Nathan Fillion sure did well for himself on TV. I'm surprised you even lasted that long with Grimm! Oy, what a show. Not for me.
Diane
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That grape juice and goat cheese sauce sounds like it would be good for dessert maybe.
Diane
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YES -- I can watch it on Hulu! Thanks for telling me about that show, Christine!
Diane
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I probably won't watch Smash - unless I watch online - as I watch "Castle" with Nathan Fillion (another former OLTL star) which airs at the same time. It's about my only "can't miss" show right now. I also try to watch "The Big Bang Theory" each week, as well as "The Middle", "Revenge", "The Mentalist", and "Once Upon a Time". Diane: I tried watching "Grimm" the first two weeks it was, but didn't like it.
kmp
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Christine -- Aha, hence the word "chopped"! They get chopped out of the competition. Yuck, frogs legs!!! Ew!!! But it sure sounds like a weird and very entertaining show! I wonder if I can find it on Hulu.....
Diane
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Diane, Chopped is fantastic. Its four chefs competing against each other in 3 rounds, appetizer, entree dessert. One is "chopped" per round. They get a basket of mysteyr ingredients so for example, the appetizer must consist of frog legs, jelly beans and grape juice etc... It actually is fun to see what the come up with and I learn that everything can be cooked. One woman made a sauce from grape juice and goat cheese that looked yummy.
christine
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One other serious thing I want to say is that feel like we got to know these 2 little innocent boys through this whole mess and had compassion for them and loved hearing when they were doing well with their grandparents. And then to see them incinerated in a blast by their 'father' is devastating. But....how many homes in Iraq did we hit with blasts that incinerated the same way with many innocent children inside who we did not know?
Diane
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LOL! "Chopped" -- Good name for a cooking show.
Diane
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We watch big Bang Theory and Walking Dead, other then that I can't think of anything we go out of our way to see. I do like "Chopped" on the food network.
Christine
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Christine - His BIL - Kirk Graves -- said he thinks Josh was afraid the boys were talking and had to silence them by getting custody and when he failed, he killed them. He thinks Josh wanted to hurt everybody as badly as he could, also, so that's why he did it and why he did it the way he did. He only thinks about JOSH. Not the children or anyone else. Susan's father said he suspected early on after meeting Josh that he had a mental illness. He was right.
Diane
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I'm glad I don't have a TV anymore because most of these new shows just are so repulsive. I know someone who was on "Grimm" but I forgot what episode so I went to Hulu to watch the latest one. OH MY. What horribleness. It's pure grotesqueness to the make-up people will probably win an emmy for it. In just 10 minutes, a judge's dead body was found with a gavel jammed down his throat, the next body had the hand sawed off, and the last body - the woman's tongue had been cut out. ACK!!! I could'nt watch another second even if a friend was in it. So I don't know about that show that Thorsten is in, but I'll give it a try on Hulu but I'm betting I won't like it either.
Diane
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Just what I saw on the news, the kids were talking! I am so sickened by everyone who dropped the ball on this. The legacy Susan left on this earth, her boys and now they are gone!
Christine
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Woops -- meant a COP should have been there -- And ONE COP tailing Josh the day after his wife disappeared after his very fishy story would have solved this crime the next day!!!!!
Diane
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Christine - Yes, a copy SHOULD have been with the social worker every time she brought the kids to him since he was their only suspect in his wife's disappearance. And since the boys were talking and it was becoming very clear Josh killed her. A possible murder suspect, and no cops when the children are visiting him? The WA and the UT police failed those children miserably!!!
Diane
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Oh sorry, KMP, I see you already told about that part!
Diane
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Christine - Actually, the kids were starting to answer questions and open up to their grandparents about the night their mother was killed. The older one said, "Mommy was in the trunk. Then Daddy said he and Mommy were going for a walk and then Mommy got lost." I get so danged mad this creep wasn't arrested a long time ago!!! These little boys would be alive right now if the stupid police had been on their toes from the start. I'm so sick of paying taxes to stupid police depts. filled with stupid lazy police!! We have a slew of them in LA who won't do a damn thing except harrass citizens and give out tickets. They will not come to arrest a rapist or protect anyone who calls for help -- not without first waiting 45 minutes. And you see cop cars up and down the street all the time -- but when there is an emergency, they clear the area and you won't see one come back for 45 minutes. What good are they???
Diane
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Y'all will get a kick out of this. On Saturday night, SNL opened with a sketch about 2014's Moon Colony run by Moon President Gingrich. http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/sci-fi-cold-open/1383274
Mike
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I've heard Smash is good, but it just doesn't appeal to me. I'm not a Glee fan and I know this is more of a Glee for adults. It just feels forced to me. I don't think it will do well. I could be wrong, but I don't think I will watch.
christine
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kmp - interesting news about Thorsten. I saw a few commercials for Smash and thought it looked horrible...maybe I'll give it a shot to see what Thorsten is doing!
LisaG
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I read that the Powell children were beginning to elaborate on that night that they went 'camping' with their father. One account said that one of the boys was talking about how they went with mommy and daddy. According to that account, he said that mommy was in the trunk; and then when they got to where they stopped, his daddy & mommy got out and he never saw his mommy again.
kmp
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For those of you who are Thorsten Kaye fans, he will be having a recurring role in NBC's new series 'Smash', which begins tomorrow night (I think @10:00 pm EST). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smash_(TV_series)
kmp
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CNN mentioned that maybe the kids were starting to ask questions.
Christine
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I agree, the visitiations should have been at the courthouse and he should have been searched for weapons prior to seeing them. To just have a social worker stroll up to his front door with the kids is wrong! Were the police there? What the heck? This really angers me! Everything about this case was wrong and creepy anyone with half a brain could see that. Why oh why???
Christine
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Holy c---! I was just coming on to post this. My heart cries out for the Cox family, those two sweet little boys and Susan. At least she is reunited with her babies.
Christine
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Also -- I got to websleuths sometimes, and many people including Susan Powell's good friend were so afraid Josh would do this one day soon the more he was being closed in on.
Diane
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Oh my GOD. I just read that Josh Powell killed himself and his two young sons!!! For gosh sakes, they had his supervised visit at HIS RESIDENCE!!! The social worker brought in the two children and then Josh quickly closed the door so the social worker couldn't get in. The sw smelled gas and called for help. The explosion then came!! What a cowardly self-serving bastard!!!! How much evil can one person have!! Those kids were so happy living with their grandparents and so loved. I blamed this on the d*mn cops who didn't tail him right away because he'd be in jail right now -- and would have been for 2 years or so. And those boys were not protected by the state because Josh was known to be unstable and the visitation with the boys should have been in a government building or something else where it was neutral territory. Can you imagine the horrible grief and anguist of the poor Cox family??
Diane
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Thanks, Cat. Doh! A conference call. That would have helped! :)
Diane
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Diane - Totally understand your frustration. That's what conference calls are for.
Cat
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Lisa, what makes me feel old is alot of these people who are passing away I always saw as the "younger" generation of actors. When I saw that Gene Hackman is 82 years old it hit me.... wow, I am no longer a teenager!
Christine
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Lisa - Thank you. You made me feel so much better about all that. I thought I was alone in all that and am so glad to know I'm not -- especially with someone as intelligent and knowledgeable as you are, I'm in good company. :)
Diane
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RIP Ben Gazzara...I remember him well. I'll say it again, so many of the people I remember watching as I grew up are passing away...makes me feel old. :( ======= Diane = That's a real PITA. I can completely understand you feeling disconcerted about not knowing that technical stuff...it's frustrating. I deal with that a lot in my job, but I figure a person can't know everything and I just ask and learn. I may not know things my peers know, but they also don't know things I do, so I just have to remember to tell myself that...it all depends on what we get the chance to work on. Hang in there!
LisaG
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Lisa - Yes, it sounds like that may be the reason you are having that dream. Maybe your creativity wants to break out and needs a challenge? I don't much care of poetry, I admit, so I don't know if that was it; but I think it may be that, at work, I have to deal with a lot of things I don't understand because I'm not technically-minded. So I was struggling for the past couple days trying to help a programmer on the east coast get his Matlab (which I just purchased for him) to work and Mathworks would only talk to me since they listed my name on the acct since I purchased it, so he kept telling me what he needed (had a thick accent, too) and I was getting so frustrated and confused and thinking "why am I pretending I know what I'm doing??!!" So that's why I think I had the poetry dream. I don't like faking I can understand this stuff but I have to keep trying sometimes so I can help them. But I don't know this stuff and it bothers me -- so the poetry dream where it was revealed I don't know anything about it.
Diane
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Maybe you knew him from Roadhouse, The Big Lebowski or the John Cassavetes canon, but chances are you knew, and recognized, Ben Gazzara. Gazzara, the always-working actor who specialized in tough guys, bad guys and every other kind of guy in between, died Friday at a New York hospital of pancreatic cancer, the New York Times reported. He was 81. R.I.P.: R&B singer David Peaston Gazzara's screen and Broadway credits, well more than 100 in all, date back some 60 years. He considered the 1959 black-and-white procedural classic Anatomy of a Murder to be a breakthough: "I got to work with my first movie star," he told The A.V. Club in 2009, " Jimmy Stewart." His most celebrated work was with Cassavetes. Gazzara starred in three of the revered actor-director's tour de forces, Husbands, The Killing of a Chinese Bookie and Opening Night. He routinely credited the movies with keeping his name alive to new generations of filmmakers. As noted elsewhere, Gazzara's death came 23 years to the day of Cassavetes', who passed away in 1989 at age 59. Other popular Gazzara roles included porn-peddler Jackie Treehorn in the Coen brothers' The Big Lebowski, and the dastardly Brad Wesley, who despite being possessed of the least villainous-sounding name of all-time pushed Patrick Swayze to the limit in the cult classic, Roadhouse. In another lifetime, Gazzara was a prime-time star who put in a three-season stint on the Fugitive-esque Run for Your Life . A one-time Emmy winner, for the TV movie Hysterical Blindness, which costarred his frequent leading lady (and Cassevetes widow), Gena Rowlands, Gazzara also won acclaim for An Early Frost, a 1985 telepic that broached the then-unbroachable AIDS crisis. In a memoir, Gazzara, who was married three times, opened up about a love affair with Audrey Hepburn, with whom he acted alongside in two movies. "So obviously I wasn't in love," Gazzara said in 2004. "I was enraptured."
christine
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Diane - LOL! Well, it was nice to have Thorsten in your dream even if he wasn't very supportive! Maybe it's a sign that you want to learn more about poetry, so that perhaps, you COULD teach it? I keep having these weird dreams about living in a condo/apt that needs renovation and I have all these ideas of what to do, but I can't get to them before I want to sell the place or have people over. Very weird. Maybe it's because of my kitchen renovations, which are nearing the end...I've finally chosen backsplash tile and flooring, now I just have to buy it and install it.
LisaG
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Want to hear my dream last night? Apparently, I don't know what I was dream-thinking but I signed up to teach a poetry class. ?! It was a one-time night-time adult learning class. Then I realized I know nothing about poetry but thought maybe I could learn from the students and I could fake it. The words "iambic pentameter" came to me and I thought I would just ask the students if someone can tell me what it means (acting like I already know). But I doubted this choice more and more and saw Thorsten walking along a path in the fields in the sun. He was walking fast and I was beside him and around him trying to keep up and asked if he could teach me anything about poetry before my class. He said it was good I was taking the class and not to worry because I would learn. I said "But I'm TEACHING it". He thought it was hopeless then. So the students come into this big room (which was chaotic with chairs and tables, etc. all over) and I just was signing up their names as they came in and saying hello. I figured maybe we could just chat the class away. Another class was meeting at the other end of the room. As time went on, the student who were relaxed and happy started to get annoyed and angry realizing they paid for a class with a teacher who doesn't know a thing. I tried to keep faking it, though, and asked if they all wanted to share their own poems -- but, boy, they were too disgusted with me by that point. So glad to wake up and find that class was over and it was all a dream.
Diane
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Lisa, he is also easy to look at!
christine
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I'd love to see a nice guy -- thanks, Lisa! It is helpful to also think of good people and the good things they say and do.
Diane
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Yeah, it looks like the psychologist who examined Josh Powell sees something because he/she told the judge Josh needs a psychosexual exam as well and that the children need to stay with their grandparents until, at least, Josh is further along in his therapy --- which was ordered by the psychologist after Josh's psychological evaluation. So he's a sick puppy. The judge ruled that the children will remain with the grandparents, and the next court date is July 26. A reporter was tweeting from the court room so I'm not sure this is correct but she tweeted that Josh's home was searched in 2009 (didn't Susan disappear in Dec 2009? If so, that would mean the house searched was the one he shared with her in Utah) and that images were found on Josh's computer that were "extremely unforgettable" so I'll bet that Josh is also a pedofile like his father. I also don't think he thinks of his children as his children, but as siblings.
Diane
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You want to see a nice guy? Watch Inside the Actor's Studio interview of George Clooney. I'm finishing up work with a nice glass of wine, some cheese and crackers and watching it on Bravo. He's really a nice, humble and modest guy...at least he appears to be. I hope it's real...it would be nice to know there are nice people like that in influential positions.
LisaG
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Ugh! You are right what a vile man!
Christine
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Is Janet on her way to Finland now? I was reading about 6 people in the US who can remember every single day of their lives. I can't remember what someone told me the other day. That vile Josh Powell and his vile brother put up a website yesterday accusing the children's maternal grandparents of abusing the children. The site was removed, but I hope that is used against that slime and he is prevented from ever getting custody of those boys ever again. They should never be moved again from where they are. They are safe and with saner people and need to get some stability in their lives.
Diane
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I'm sure we will hear more about why he killed himself. I did hear he was very ill. Maybe he decided not to suffer?
Christine
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Rip, Don C. Man, I feel oooooooooold...all these people that I grew up watching are dying. :(
LisaG
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Wow! __________ Shocking news this morning from Los Angeles; Don Cornelius, the creator and host of the classic music and dance show “Soul Train,” was found dead this morning, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the LA Times. “Soul Train” ran nationally from 1971 to 2006, with Cornelius hosting it until 1993. His smooth style and deep voice were signatures of the show, as were the cutting-edge soul and R&B acts whose songs would be played on the syndicated program. When the kids on the show would dance down the “Soul Train Line”, where dancers lined up on either side to witness each pair and its moves, it served as the nation’s first exposure to what would become dance floor staples in subsequent years. TMZ reported that Cornelius was 75. Cornelius was planning a movie about the creation of the show, but no news about it had come out since he discussed it with the LA Times in 2010.
christine
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um...cared = care
LisaG
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I can't believe I just watched an episode of Glee! I really don't cared for the show, but tonight it was a Michael Jackson tribute, so it was nice to hear a bunch of his best hits.
LisaG
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Lisa - Hummers. She's sitting on the nest again and hatch-watch is 2/14 - 2/16. The eagles in the US (not the ones up in BC in Canada) are doing the watoosi with each other in the past week and spending time in their nest again so they should be laying their eggs within 10 days. Not much to see right now but the drama will begin in a couple weeks.
Diane
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Diane - gee, I hope I don't find any dead bodies out there! Ack! The island is in Great Salt Lake near Salt Lake City. Supposedly, there are bison there...would love to see some from afar! ---------------- So what's hatching now? Eaglets or humming birds?
LisaG
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My escape lately as been these cams on the bird nests. It's exhilarating to see them fledge for the first time. Just exhilarating. Of course, tragedy happens, too, so it is quite drama-filled to watch the nests. There is comedy, tragedy, triumph, and tears.
Diane
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There's an island in Utah? Yeah, while you're there, Lisa G, please take a look-about for Susan Powell while you're hiking around. You never know. A hiker just might be the one that finds something. Not that you want to do something like that on your vacation, but it could happen. Hikers are often the ones to find something that's been missing for a long time.
Diane
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Janet - I'll be in SLC May 6 & 7...got any good ideas for restaurants? I'm already looking at possibly going to Antelope Island...any other suggestions for site seeing? :)
LisaG
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Woo hoo! Everything is booked for my hiking trip to Arches and Canyonlands in May.
LisaG
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Puck - I agree. That's why I don't like Newt either. He's a sexist and racist and thinks women are just things for men to use. Pee-u. What a stinky being he is.
Diane
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Mike, I have seen Ferris, it was fun and cute, but I could never quite see the complete adoration for it. It was very popular here because of the city. I look forward to the ad though. My favorite SB ad of all time is Robert Goulet for Emerald nuts. The first time I saw it I was in hysterics and to this day it is so off the wall and unexpected. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPtpo1OuYcs
christine
-

As I said, I am in favor of further space exploration but right now this is not the time to bring it up. None of the candidates on either side should consider it a viable plan for at least the next 10 years. That doesn't mean we compeletly dismiss it, but it really shouldn't be an issue right now. Whatever they are doing on it, they can keep doing it. Just remember the government does have a zombie apocalypse plan ;-) I know its not zombies per say, but I'm just throwing it out there.
Christine
-

Did you all see The Daily Show today? Another good one...they were interviewing Florida women...some were 2 time divorcees, some were 1 time divorcees and others were young not yet marrieds. Needless to say, the divorcee groups absolutely despised Gingrich...the 2 young women kept defending him...even when the older women talked about his ethics charges and later resignation. Ah well, we'll have several more months to chuckle over this as the comedians go hog wild with this stuff.
LisaG
-

Then what about President Obama wanting us to have manned mission to Mars by 2035, just 15 years (max) after the moon-wish of Newt and at dozens of times the cost a return to the moon would cost, especially now that NASA manned launches are dead? Does he know the economy will clear up between 2020 and 2035 while it won't between 2010 and 2020? All I am saying is the Elephants don't have a monopoly on these things many Donkeys complain or snicker about, but the media and mainstream sure does ignore it when the Donkeys do. Frankly, I am in favor of both (Moon AND Mars in the coming decades), but I DO fully understand the controversy and to be honest, am not sure of the timeframe either. Space travel and exploration will ALWAYS be controversial. Always has been.
Mike
-

Not sure if "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" was popular with the ladies or not, but if you've heard recently of a short clip of a new commercial featuring Ferris (full commercial to be in the Super Bowl), well, Honda released the full length commercial. Not sure if the FULL one will air during the game, it's 2:25 long. Ferris' second day off ---> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhkDdayA4iA
Mike
-

Puck - Stewart is fantastic and is having a blast with this Republican primary debacle...I must admit, it's been pretty entertaining...though, it's also depressing that those are the best Republicans have to offer. I think the whole mentioning of the moon base, just shows how out of touch Newt is with what's going on. Really sad.
LisaG
-

Puck, cute, but true to life, joke!
Christine
-

Watching "The Daily Show", and doubled up laughing at this one. RE: Newt's moon base, and why he wants it. Jon said, "Newt did the global warming ad with Nancy Pelosi, realized the earth was very, very sick, and wants to leave it for a younger planet."
Puck
-

I don't dislike Newt for his moon base plans -- I dislike him because he's a narcissist who truly feels women are second class citizens. It's all about him. The world doesn't revolve around him -- the entire galaxy does. He's as corrupt as they come. I find him to be a horrid, horrid individual.
Puck
-

Christine - That guy's behavior says it all then.
Diane
-

Phoebe is sitting on a couple eggs that should hatch 2/12-2/14, if you're interested, Mike. The Decorah eagles have done the 'deed' this weekend so they should probably be laying their eggs within 10 days. Eaglets! So danged cute! Oy, from the moment they hatch and are first revealed, they are walking around like muppet babies acting all goofy and silly. When a fish comes, they eat the flesh the mother gives to them right away. If two eaglet toddlers fight, it looks so funny -- but it's not to the smaller one!
Diane
-

Diane, this guy was pretty nuts... a VERY busy street.... and then holding a sign like that. My friend wanted to run him over, luckily she wasn't driving.
Christine
-

That was a good interview by Erika Slezak. Thanks for posting the link, Mike.
Diane
-

Well, I tell ya. If some of these politicians want to go to the moon, let's give them a one-way ticket.
Diane
-

Nope, just went to the PO. No stamps yet. Although, you can get the ones from the machine but they are not the good quality stamps they sell later on.
Diane
-

any time i hear the words moon base, i think of the old UK show UFO and those women in purple wigs! ;)
LisaG
-

Does anybody know if the new postage stamps are available yet? The PO has been out of stamps for weeks now.
Diane
-

We can't elect anyone really good anymore. Not unless he/she is in the pockets of the corporation because our electoral system is busted and corrupted. 'They' will not allow anyone we want to get elected because the media simply will not cover your candidate. And, if they do, they do it in a negative light and make fun of your candidate.
Diane
-

Christine -- Yeah, those Larouche people are a little strange. They set up tables in places like in front of the PO or just a sidewalk and try and capture anyone who walks by and if you listen and don't go to donate, they GET REALLY LOUD and ask why you can't help them out! Shudder. They seem like a cult. Way too pushy and controlling.
Diane
-

In all defense of Mr Gingrich, it is/was not his idea. It is presently ALREADY a standing US Government policy to return to the moon by 2020 in preparation for the declared planned travels to Mars. So do not drop all the boos, hisses and laughs on him, at least not him only.
Mike
-

LOL! I just realized, I should have said, Newt has TOAD-ally gone around the bend. Bwa ha ha ha ha!
LisaG
-

Newt is certifiable -- always has been (I'm a Georgian -- we have more experience with that nut-job than the rest of you!).
Puck
-

Or 20 years...
Christine
-

I would be cool with a moonbase in the future... but this is the worse time to come out with that. A longterm goal, sure.... in the next 10 years... no.
Christine
-

Oh forget about all that...let's elect a guy who promises to have an American moon base built by 2020...equipped for science missions and even recreational activities! OMG...Newt has totally gone around the bend! We have severe economic issues and he's parading a moon base around as part of his election platform?! The Republicans are in serious trouble.
LisaG
-

My husband says more then likely he is a Lyndon Larouche candidate.
Christine
-

Christine - The man who did that was, most likely, a 'conservative'. For the past few decades, they have been playing the mindgame of labeling 'the other side' with the things that they themselves are actually doing. It's the 'conservative' side who is flounting hatred due to race or religion -- THAT is fascism. The corporate ownership of just about everything is also fascism. I'm not a fan of Obama, BUT he is NOT a Hitler. Many on the 'conservative' side ARE, though. They are practicing Fascism and Naziism but pointing the finger at others for this. I recently read a quote from man who fought during WWII, and he says "We fought Fascism back then and defeated it. And it saddens me now to see it coming back in my own country." Next, they will call Obama racist. It's a dirty and very ignorant political tactic.
Diane
-

I was out with my friends yesterday having lunch, shopping as we were driving down a very busy street near Woodfield mall, this man was walking around with a sign "Impeach Obama" on the other side was Obama with a Hitler mustache and the name HItler underneath. My friends and I flipped! It is an insult on the blood and suffering of the millions of people who died or were persecuted in the Holocaust. Does this man even know history? It bothers me to no end that people so easily throw out the name ofa truly evil man. I wish I had a time machine to send him back to Nazi Germany so he could see just how life really is under Hitler! Disagree with the leader, but leave Hitler out of it.
Christine
-

Christine -- So glad the crime was updated to a felony because that's what all animal abuse should be. JANET - I think the "charming" part alone should put women's antennae up. Also, I've been on the phone with men through singles ads and there are some where I only hear references to themselves and the whole 'conversation' is not that -- it's a solo monologue by them and all about them and they never once ask me a question about who I am. That's a big clue. I think if women can get the 'beautiful wedding' and 'lifetime of happiness' out of their heads when they meet a man, they can see him for what he really is instead of what they dream he could be. But I won't fault a woman for not seeing it either because I've gotten with some really horrible types and I didn't see it coming -- but, when I look back, there were signs early on that I just didn't want to see because I wanted a relationship.
Diane
-

What a sad story: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/manhattan/doggone_shame_1a9XYW8u9ZLlqwRJTa6jrN
kmp
-

Diane: If would wear signs around their necks that say "I am a narcissist" I will surely avoid them.....point is, it's hard to tell because in public life they can also be charming, bright, successful.Scary that deep down they're not what they'd like us to think, but they sure can fool us.
Janet
-

Just saw a news story that sickened me. Last year this University student threw a pot of boiling water on his dog, because the dog was peeing on the floor. The dog suffered second and third degree burns. Since then, the dog has healed and is now with a loving family and the guy's charges have been raised from a misdeamenor to a felony. I think someone should throw a pot of boiling water over his head.
christine
-

kmp, that is a neat story!
Christine
-

Nice new interview with Erika Slezak. (it's dated Jan 28...today). http://www.examiner.com/city-buzz-in-san-diego/erika-slezak-on-the-end-of-one-life-to-live-and-what-is-next-for-her?CID=examiner_alerts_article
Mike
-

KMP, yeah, I heard that on the radio today (John Tyler's grandkids). One of the more amazing things I've heard in quite a while.
Mike
-

I think I also read that the company that owns Costa Concordia/Carnival is based in the US in Miami, FL.
Diane
-

What seems like a long time turns out not to really be as long as we thought, huh, KMP? They say a lifetime seems like a long time but it is really just a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things.
Diane
-

Here is the perfect gift for all those logophiles on your gift list: http://www.hammacher.com/Product/Default.aspx?sku=11995
kmp
-

As a history buff (I minored in history in college), I found this to be astonishing. It's hard to believe that the grandfather of two people living today was born during George Washington's administration: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/former-president-john-tyler-1790-1862-grandchildren-still-191230189.html
kmp
-

We are also developing the same level of corruption in this country now, too, though. On every level. It's sad to see it happening but countries go through stages and some of them are not pretty.
Diane
-

er..."corrupt", not "correct"....
Puck
-

Yes, Italy is correct from top to toes, from government to personal life. In Italy, nothing gets done without graft and bribery. The economy in Italy is in such a mess because in addition to the money to fund a thing, you have to include the money to bribe people and entities. Civic life is in the toilet -- the birth rate is at 1.2, the lowest of the entire European union, and so far below parity that Italy may never recover. And why? -- because Italian women don't want to have babies in a world where women are nothing but bodies to men (especially powerful men), where religion, society, and economics all conspire to keep them powerless and unhappy, where their men have no jobs (unemployment is the worst in the Union), and where their men stay home with their mommies until marriage, which now occurs in their 30s and 40s. The change Italy needs to undergo is earth-shattering -- it needs to change its fundamental belief system -- it needs to change the way even the family is structured, the amount of influence religion has on civic life, and yes, the political and economic system. Probably no society can undergo so much change, on every level of life -- so Italy will probably have to die out as a nation and a people, before whatever remains can be transformed.
Puck
-

this story is soooooooooooooooo cute!!! http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/awwww-read-seven-old-heart-melting-letter-kyle-214810120.html
lisag
-

Diane - Well, just look at the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi...he's on trial for corruption and accounting fraud. And there are all kinds of reports on business and political scandals...heck look at how the police railroaded Amanda Knox for murder and completely screwed up the investigation. It's a real mess over there.
LisaG
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Robert Hegyes, best known as John Travolta's fellow "Sweathog" Juan Epstein on the sitcom Welcome Back Kotter, has died. He was 60 Hegyes died from an apparent heart attack after having chest pains, The Star-Ledger reports. His brother tells the New Jersey paper the actor had suffered a heart attack in the last couple of years and was not well. Hegyes, who was born in New Jersey, played a wise-cracking Jewish Puerto Rican student with an infectious wide grin. He co-starred in the classic comedy with a young Travolta, who played Vinnie Barbarino. Hegyes also acted in Cagney and Lacey NewsRadio, Diagnosis Murder and The Drew Carey Show.
Christine
-

While the Captain is not 100% in the clear, I can so totally see TPTB wanting $$ at all cost. Even at the detriment of the passengers.
Christine
-

Lisa - Really? Wow. Can you tell me a little about that? That's so sad to hear.
Diane
-

Diane - much as I loved my trip to Italy, the country, as a whole, is really corrupt. Very sad.
LisaG
-

More and more is coming out about these companies who own these cruise ships. This captain of the Concordia is not as guilty as he sounds because information is coming out that these cruise companies routinely tell their captains to sail as close as possible to some islands because (1) the passengers like it and (2) it's like an advertisement for the cruise company to those on land. I thought there was something fishy in their blaming the captain for the whole thing because it was revealed that last August they had him sail that close to that island for an 'evening lights show' that was going on there. The captain was also recorded (without his knowledge) when he was arrested but had a visit from a friend telling the friend his bosses were screwing him because they spoke to him while he was cruising and were telling him to sail close to that island and now they were claiming they didn't know anything about it. Typical corporate crime. It starts way up at the top. (Abandoning the ship before all the passengers, though, is a whole other kettle of fish.)
Diane
-

Yes, so sad about Lori Hacking. She was blindsided. He got up and shot the poor young woman in her sleep. She didn't do anything wrong - nothing justifies that shooting anyway, though. He admitted afterwards that Lori found out the truth. But she wrote him a note telling him she would still stick by him but he needed to change. So he got up and shot her. He was a narcissist. OJ Simpson was a narcissist. Scott Peterson was a narcissist. Maybe we should stay away from men who are too narcissistic and selfish. I don't know.
Diane
-

It is scary to think you might not really no someone, especially a spouse! Lori, Laci... and countless others killed by a "loving" spouse.
Christine
-

It's no wonder they take a good look at the family when someone goes missing or worse. #1 son joined in the search for Lori Hacking. Her husband Mark was something of a hero to him, although he only know him slightly; he was headed to medical school, which my son wanted to do, too. But Hacking hadn't even graduated from university. Printed up invites, etc. and sent them to his family, then backed out from graduation "due to illness." They thought he'd really been in school for several years. Evidently Lori got too close to the truth.
Janet
-

Postage went up on Sunday to 45 cents a stamp. I guess that would make a book an even $9.00. I remember when the stamps cost less than a nickel a piece. Yes, old fogie, Diane, keep rocking in your chair.
dianee
-

It's a two-fer, huh, Lisa? :) Two good things in one.
Diane
-

Yeah, plus it helps keep the post office in business! :)
LisaG
-

Oh good -- glad to hear others are sending the junk mail back to them in their postage paid envelopes! That's what they deserve!
Diane
-

LOL. I've also sent stuff back, but nothing with my name on it...i don't want the mailing to be misconstrued as an application in any way...i just mail back the general info stuff.
lisag
-

Diane, I've sent stuff back like that before.
christine
-

Lisa - Sounds like you've got it covered. Those credit card applications they send in the mail are so dangerous for our credit security because they have our information on them all ready to send back to them for the credit card. All someone has to do is to fill out a few things and have the card sent to them. Very scary. I'm doing the rebellion thing I heard about and (after shredding the stuff with my name on it) putting their ads back in the postage-paid envelope and sending them back their junk. The idea is to make the banks STOP sending this crap so much. They have to pay for the postage and also waste the time of the person in the mail room so maybe one day if enough people do this, they will cut it out -- or cut back. I get at least one a week.
Diane
-

I always remember him playing Saint Peter.
christine
-

Actor James Farentino, who appeared in dozens of movies and television shows, died Tuesday in a Los Angeles hospital, according to a family spokesman. He was 73. Farentino died of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Hospital after a long illness, said the spokesman, Bob Palmer. Farentino starred alongside Kirk Douglas and Martin Sheen in the 1980 science fiction film "The Final Countdown." The movie featured a modern aircraft carrier that travels back in time to Pearl Harbor hours before the Japanese attack. Farentino also starred opposite Patty Duke in 1969's "Me, Natalie." In 1967, he won a "Most Promising Newcomer" Golden Globe for his performance in the comedy "The Pad and How to Use It." He also had recurring roles on "Dynasty," "Melrose Place," "The Bold Ones: The Lawyers" and "ER," playing the estranged father to George Clooney's character. In 1978, he was nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal of Saint Peter in the television mini-series "Jesus of Nazareth." A four-time divorcee, Farentino's tumultuous personal life made headlines, too. In March 1994, he pleaded no contest to stalking his ex-girlfriend Tina Sinatra, daughter of Frank Sinatra.
christine
-

We also have a good shredder!
christine
-

I invested in a really good shredder I bought at Staples several years ago. It will shred paper, credit cards, dvd's, etc. I make sure I shred any old credit cards, statements, receipts, plus if I get any credit card applications in the mail or similar things, I shred those, too. Basically, anything with my name and address on it...the other inserts I just toss in the garbage.
LisaG
-

OH - also a good lesson for people to destroy their expired credit cards so they don't get used the way they were in Scenario 1. I cut mine in half and only throw half away in my messy kitchen trash. A week or two later, I throw the second half out the same way.
Diane
-

Christine - Yeah, it makes you think twice now about when a restaurant takes our credit card away and brings it back a few minutes later. Hmmm...I went to CA Pizza Kitchen not that long ago. I placed my order on-line for pickup and used by credit card. I always check the security of a site before I do that and make sure it's encrypted. When you pick up your order, they want to see the physical credit card you used on-line to make sure you have it. The last times, they looked at it quickly and didn't even have to take it from my hand. This last time, the guy took it and did not give it back for quite awhile as he was busying around. He kept it beside the computer and watched me watch it. It gave me an uneasy feeling the way he did that. Maybe it was nothing or maybe that's how my card number got stolen --- or it could be when I paid or gas...etc. But now I'll be more aware at the restaurants as well.
Diane
-

Lisa, Michigan coast along lake Michigan. We went last year right before the colors changed completely. It was gorgeous then, I can imagine in full fall colors! And I love the coastline along there... the dunes.... very nice. ________________________________ Wow the credit card scenarios really open one's eyes. I'm going to pass them along to DH. Luckily we don't use them often, usually when I do it is at a store where it doesn't leave my hand, but I can see restaurants being an issue.
christine
-

Lisa - Thank you about the thyroid news. Gosh, I remember having countless dental x-rays as a young teen for braces. And I think it was before they came out with the lead apron so there was none. I had so many of them especially since we switched orthodonists and went to another and she wanted all her own x-rays done. Mammograms do emit a good amount of radiation, too, so I opt for thermography now. I have Hashimoto's thyroiditis now and a thyroid that is enlarged and has nodules. They keep an eye on it. Thankfully, most thyroid cancer grows very very slowly so it's usually easy to catch before it spreads anywhere.
Diane
-

Anyway, I think if women really are friends with their husbands, they shouldn't have anything to fear.
Diane
-

Christine - I hope the husband is innocent, too, but it's just all so fishy. Yes, it's scary how many women are killed by their husbands. I wish I could see what all their marriages are like to get a clue as to how the husband acted over the years/months. I can't believe that there weren't signs of something to come. I once had a boyfriend, who seemed like the gentle sort but who sooned turned arrogant, face me and put his hands around my throat with a look I didn't like in his eyes. I said "WHAT ARE YOU DOING!" in an annoyed tone. He removed his hands, but I never trusted him again, and the 'relationship' was soon over -- thank God.
Diane
-

Also - on that Scene 1 one, the reason the cr card company didn't contact him on those charges being made was because the person who was using the card was charging small amounts on them, and the red flag only goes up when it's a large charge or when it's out of the country.
Diane
-

And the last: SCENE 3: Yesterday I went into a pizza restaurant to pick up an order that I had called in. I paid by using my Visa Check Card which, of course, is linked directly to my checking Account. The young man behind the counter took my card, swiped it, then laid it on the counter as he waited for the approval, which is pretty standard procedure. While he waited, he picked up his cell phone and started dialling. I noticed the phone because it is the same model I have, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Then I heard a click that sounded like my phone sounds when I take a picture. He then gave me back my card but kept the phone in his hand as if he was still pressing buttons. Meanwhile, I'm thinking: I wonder what he is taking a picture of, oblivious to what was really going on. It then dawned on me: the only thing there was my credit card, so now I'm paying close attention to what he is doing.. He set his phone on the counter, leaving it open. About five seconds later, I heard the chime that tells you that the picture has been saved. Now I'm standing there struggling with the fact that this boy just took a picture of my credit card. Yes, he played it off well, because had we not had the same kind of phone, I probably would never have known what happened. Needless to say, I immediately cancelled that card as I was walking out of the pizza parlour. All I am saying is, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Whenever you are using your credit card take caution and don't be careless. Notice who is standing near you and what they are doing when you use your card. Be aware of phones, because many have a camera phone these days.
Diane
-

Here's the next one: SCENE 2. A man at a local restaurant paid for his meal with his credit card. The bill for the meal came, he signed it and the waitress folded the receipt and passed the credit card along. Usually, he would just take it and place it in his wallet or pocket. Funny enough, though, he actually took a look at the card and, lo and behold, it was the expired card of another person. He called the waitress and she looked perplexed. She took it back, apologized, and hurried back to the counter under the watchful eye of the man. All the waitress did while walking to the counter was wave the wrong expired card to the counter cashier, and the counter cashier immediately looked down and took out the real card. No exchange of words --- nothing! She took it and came back to the man with an apology.. Verdict: Make sure the credit cards in your wallet are yours. Check the name on the card every time you sign for something and/or the card is taken away for even a short period of time. Many people just take back the credit card without even looking at it, 'assuming' that it has to be theirs. FOR YOUR OWN SAKE, DEVELOP THE HABIT OF CHECKING YOUR CREDIT CARD EACH TIME IT IS
Diane
-

Not sure how this will come out, but a friend sent to me on new ways our credit card numbers are being stolen: SCENE 1. A friend went to the local gym and placed his belongings in the locker. After the workout and a shower, he came out, saw the locker open, and thought to himself, 'Funny, I thought I locked the locker... Hmm, 'He dressed and just flipped the wallet to make sure all was in order. Everything looked okay - all cards were in place... A few weeks later his credit card bill came - a whooping bill of $14,000! He called the credit card company and started yelling at them, saying that he did not make the transactions. Customer care personnel verified that there was no mistake in the system and asked if his card had been stolen... 'No,' he said, but then took out his wallet, pulled out the credit card, and yep - you guessed it - a switch had been made. An expired similar credit card from the same bank was in the wallet. The thief broke into his locker at the gym and switched cards. Verdict: The credit card issuer said since he did not report the card missing earlier, he would have to pay the amount owed to them.
Diane
-

I'd say, if you're traveling in the USA, there are a few must sees...New York City, Washington DC, fall in New England, California coastline, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and if you can ride on horseback through grasslands in the middle of nowhere like Wyoming. I'm kinda ticked I didn't start seeing the parks out west earlier...GC is just awe inspiring, it's so BIG! Bryce is absolutely beautiful. I'm sure I'll be adding Arches and Canyonlands to that list once I go this spring. NYC is just a kewl place...so much to do, museums, theater, restaurants, ballet, opera, shopping, etc. Washington, DC is just so historic...I really need to go there again, since I've only gone as a kid and when I was working a while back...I really want to see the Vietnam memorial and revisit all the older ones, plus there's all the museums, too!
LisaG
-

Diane, I only hope he had nothing to do with her death... isn't it terrible that you can't trust anyone anymore??? ______________________ We had wanted to S&R when I was in Vegas many moons ago with my ex, but it was so pricey. We ended up seeing Lance Burton, who was only $35 a person and put on a fabulous show! __________________________ Lisa, very interesting regarding thyroid cancer.
Christine
-

from a viewer of the dr oz show... ----------- Thyroid cancer ----------- On Wednesday, Dr. Oz had a show on the fastest growing cancer in women, thyroid cancer. ----------- It was a very interesting program and he mentioned that the increase could possibly be related to the use of dental x-rays and mammograms. He demonstrated that on the apron the dentist puts on you for your dental x-rays there is a little flap that can be lifted up and wrapped around your neck. Many dentists don't bother to use it. Also, there is something called a "thyroid guard" for use during mammograms. ----------- By coincidence, I had my yearly mammogram yesterday. I felt a little silly, but I asked about the guard and sure enough, the technician had one in a drawer. I asked why it wasn't routinely used. ----------- Answer: "I don't know. You have to ask for it." ----------- Well, if I hadn't seen the show, how would I have known to ask? ----------- We need to pass this on to our daughters, nieces, mothers and all our female friends and husbands tell your wives! I just did, now you send it on to your list. ----------- Someone was nice enough to forward this to me. I hope you pass this on to your friends and family.
LisaG
-

Puck - I saw Siegfried and Roy back in 1981 in Vegas and they were amazing! Yes, I had too much wine -- oy, the place has too many free drinks -- but I was so amazed that a real life TIGER was in front of me yards ahead and then disappeared after a puff of smoke.
Diane
-

Christine -- This story just might make it to Dateline, huh? I notice a quote in the article from her sister that sounds like she doesn't suspect anything. But wait a little while, and she might notice other things and get suspicious and try to get the police in the US to investigate. Remember how Scott Peterson's in-laws swore up and down that Scott was devoted to Lacy and would never be behind her disappearance -- and then all that changed. That story about the red beret father too started out with the in-laws having full trust in him and never thinking he had another to do with the deaths of his daughter and grandchildren. Then all that changed when his behavior got bizarre. That actress' body should undergo toxicology tests. I'm willing to bet they might find something in there. Who better than a psychiatrist to have access to drugs that would sedate someone in a little while. He could have known she was going in the water and offered her a drink or food that had something in it so she would pass out while in the water and drown.
Diane
-

Yes, indeed!!! I would love to go to Vegas, because I want to see Cirque du Soleil. I wanted to see Seigfried and Roy, back in the day....
Puck
-

And cheers to Melissa McCarthy for her nomination for Bridesmaids.... she is our hometown girl! And she proves you don't have to be a size zero to be talented and recognized!
Christine
-

I budget too and look at the money I spend as entertainment. We have plenty of casinos around here, yet I have only been once. For me they are only about the gambling, whereas Vegas has so many things to see and do. __________________________ Watch the Oscar nominations and at least I have seen one of the nominated movies, The Help, which was fantastic! I really want to see The Artist as I love silent films and this one looks fantastic. I actually read a story that in England some people who went to see it were complaining it is a silent film... duh!
Christine
-

Yeah, I've been on a riverboat casino before in Kansas City, and gambling is tons of fun, if you look at it as entertainment. As with any entertainment, set a budget for it. I went with $20, played and played, and walked out with $19. So for one dollar, I got lots of thrills, a few "big" wins, and a nice buffet lunch. My dad and stepmom who took me that day, budgeted $30 each in penny slots, and played until they lost it all -- which was, to them, very fun!
Puck
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ah, I LOVE Vegas.. casinos and all.. LOVE 'em.. so much fun.. just have to set a budget and know you limits... went for my 50th birthday with my cousins.. we called it the Bicentennial Tour.. 4 of us turning 50, haha! But we did more than gamble.. shopping, shows, the lights.. laughing.. eating..a few cocktails.. laughing.. more eating...oh we had fun the four of us! As for cruises, until you've been on one you don't know what you're missing.. it's all about the journey.. you go to fabulous places.. Mom's been to Hawaii, through the Panama Canal, Colombia, Mexico, Aruba, Jamaica, Honduras, Virgin Islands... all through the Caribbean.. all sort of options for tours once you get there... .. the ships have all kinds of entertainment.. movie theater, ice rinks, rock climbing walls, spas, pools that are like water parks.. shows and entertainment.. and it's all right there.. we never heard out neighbors in our stateroom.. .. the food was awesome, we were invited to have dinner at the Captain's table...now that the girls are getting older we can't wait to go again.. they have so many options for kids as well too... .. I just love to travel though.. I am the one that did 10,000 miles summer of 2010 with the girls and my Mom driving cross country.. that was a blast.. saw 24 of the lower 48 states! we'll see the other half next time :) .. as for the Blue Ridge in full fall peak.. that's my back yard. and IMO.. over rated... but if you ever feel like raking leaves you're more than welcome to visit! :) they get ankle deep in one day! knee deep if we just leave them... DC is nice though... Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands are on my next cross country trek.. The beach though .. ah, is a MUST for me...no matter where I go I have to go the beach .. we started the year at the beach in Florida .. New Year's Day on the Gulf of Mexico. the kids and their cousins were in the water.. ah.. bliss!
Anita
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Diane, I watch enough Dateline NBC and 48 Hours to see something fishy going on.
Christine
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Christine - I'm glad I'm not the only one. I'm so shocked also that the 2 articles that told of her death didn't mention at all why she might have died. Not one word, as if it didn't matter. Just how much she loved the ocean and this lovey 'picture' of how she and her husband went there every year and how they just celebrated his birthday. So what? Was all that to detract attention away from himself of being guilty? Welp, if someone was going to off their wife, why not take her out of the country and make it look normal. I'd like for him to take a lie detector test. It wouldn't be the first time a doctor would have used drugs or something else to off his middle-aged-plus wife. AND him being a doctor would make one think he would be the first person to need to find out what happened.
Diane
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Janet, I know we we spent we spent most of our time just looking around at the hotels (I love The Venetian!), the shops, we saw Blue Man Group.... as I said we do gamble but not much. I agree, there are all sorts of things you can discover. We even rented a car and left the area to see some nature, though it was too hot to hike. Saw some Native American ruins. ____________________________ I agree about Andrea, it pings my danger alert.... how could she just go under???
Christine
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That Andrea Moar story is setting off alarm bells with me, but I hope I'm wrong. It's just too strange. There is no mention of an autopsy or cause of death. Who else besides her husband saw her go from floating to going under the water? You can't go from floating to submerging without uprighting yourself so what happened? If she went from floating to submerged, someone had to have grabbed her and pulled her down from underneath. And she was 55, you don't just say 'ah well. She was floating when she died as she loved to do'. 55 is not old enough to just drop dead. I read something that said that the chances of doing an autopsy over a sudden dead when someone hits 55 drops dramatically and then continued to drop which makes it easy to kill someone older and not have anyone look into it. And it happens way more often than we want to think. I know it was Mexico, but still one would think that a loving husband would WANT to know why his wife died and be distraught at what happened so suddenly. I don't like the whole way this sounds.
Diane
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I've had to be converted to Vegas, too. But the new hotels, etc. and the shows (!) are really great. Hate smoke, casinos, gambling. When you land, it's quite a sight in the daytime - you're parallel to some of the most interesting buildings on the strip. We've attended one university college basketball tournament there - - everything was under one roof. Arena, food court, hotel. Very convenient. And we'll go again in March. We've gone a couple of times recently just to see some shows. Jersey Boys rocks! If you get a good deal with plane, hotel, etc. you can do well. But the sheer volume of entertainment is unparallelled - from cirque de soleil to Celine, ventriloquists and magicians, to so many great artists who have shorter runs. And Donny and Marie put on a fabulous show. The strip at night is something to see, but sometimes the traffic is crazy. The noise is what gets to me. Always the background noise of the gambling. Even at the airport. So I'm enjoying it more as a place to visit (and they have tons of conventions of all sorts) and then it's nice to get home. Some of the downtown malls, etc. are top of the line - Prada, Dior, Chanel, etc. and have outrageous prices. We didn't see many people buying stuff and we were there on Black Friday this year. The outlet malls and other shopping centers away from the strip do well, I think. Oh, and we saw a very good art exhibit at one of the hotels this year. You just never know what you're going to find until you start looking and doing your homework. I pass through Vegas on my way to El Paso when I take my granddaughter to visit her daddy. She notices the noise immediately, too, and asked what the slot machines were. I said, well, you put your money in and you never see it again. a 4 yr old can understand that!
Janet
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There are people who can't tear themselves away from the machines!
Christine
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I went to Las Vegas once 30 years and also did not like it at all. I thought were were in the lower realms of hell and all the souls addicted to money and gambling were playing for eternity. But, yeah, the shows are AMAZING. MIKE -- It sure is something to see at night with all those neon lights. Cool if you fly over it in a plane on the way to LA because you can look down and see the strip from the sky all lit up at night. Amazing. But the gambling I hated. My friend was addicted to the nickel machines but I didn't find any fun in feeding my money to a machine or betting it any other way.
Diane
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That's a strange death of that actress. So if her body wasn't lost, they have it so they can see it wasn't a shark that pulled her under. I suppose one could have a heart attack while floating or something of that nature.
Diane
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God bless her..... http://news.yahoo.com/rep-giffords-resign-congress-week-192109276.html
christine
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http://www.ebay.com/itm/SOAP-OPERA-DIGEST-SEPT-15-1981-ANDREA-MOAR-DOCTORS-/260749424048
christine
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I rremember her.... she was married to Chuck Tyler. Google her professional name Andrea Moar.
Christine
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Don't recall the actress nor the role. "'80s 'All My Children' star drowns" - Andrea Schenck, a cast member of "All My Children" in the early 1980s who left television acting and married a prominent Minneapolis doctor, drowned while vacationing in Mexico. _________ Schenck was relaxing in the water off the coast of Cancun on Jan. 13 and died while she and husband Dr. Carlos Schenck were on their annual vacation there and having just celebrated his birthday a day earlier. She was 55. ______ Schenck, who went by Andrea Moar professionally, was floating on her back not far from shore near the couple's vacation resort, "gazing at the sun, doing what she liked best" when she went under, her husband said Friday. "She loved the ocean." ________ Schenck's greatest prominence as an actress came during her three years in the early 1980s with ABC-TV's long-running "All My Children," portraying Carrie Sanders Tyler. _____ rest of the article at http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/stageandarts/137828548.html
Mike
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Stopping by to say hi. I'm with you LisaG-I hate gambling. It's like throwing money away. I'd rather be outside. But we do visit Vegas every once in a great while. The last time was April 2008. My sweetie won a top prize at our company and they sent us there all-expenses paid for a 4-day weekend at Caeser's. Awesome. And I agree with Mike. We have to go visit Rick, the Old Man, and the rest of the motley crew next time. Love that show.
rebecca
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Mike, Mt. Rushmore is wonderful, but if you can see the Badlands.... it is breathtaking.
Christine
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it's a good thing I decided to call the credit card companies. I learned that one charges 3 percent for each international transaction and the other does not. I have emergency numbers to call, and they said they could help with missing passports, lost luggage, etc. I didn't know that. And one of the companies sent all their international info to me in an email, and said they appreciated knowing where I'd be. We had a card denied once when we were traveling, and had to call to get it cleared. If you do something that's not characteristic on your account, a red flag goes up, so they like to know if you're going to do something uncharacteristic, I guess. Which is for everybody's protection.
Janet
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I'd like to visit Vegas before I visit the Pearly Gates because I just want to see it at night. Plus I have to go see Chumlee and the Old Man at Pawn Stars! As for a cruise, never had the urge. I've only been at a beach (officially) three times in my life and I'd rather spend a week in such an environ than a cruise. As for places in the US, the Grand Canyon is near the bottom of my top 10 or 20. Higher on the list is Devil's Tower, Mt Rushmore, Washington DC, the Blue Ridge Mountains at the peak of the Autumn colors, ANY launch at Cape Canaveral, Hawaii, Yellowstone and the Mustang Ranch ;-) Sadly though I know I shall never see any of them, I am just not a traveler. Although the most realistic would either be DC or the Blue Ridge quest.
Mike
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I was in Las Vegas a few years ago, meeting up with the hiking company when I went to the Grand Canyon, Bryce and Zion. I hated it. For me, it was much too crowded, much too smokey from the casinos...even in the non-casino areas) and not very friendly. I *did* like the Cirque shows I was able to see and a couple of the restaurants, but I don't gamble and I just don't understand the attraction to it. I was so incredibly bored in Albuquerque, when my sister and her housemate went to play the slots at the casino/hotel we were staying at just before heading home. I tried it and wound up winning about $40, so I stopped and kept the money, but I didn't enjoy it. I'd rather be outside hiking, at the beach, etc. But hey, to each his/her own...if we all liked the same things, it would be a dull boring world!
LisaG
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I also like going somewhere were I can get to a store if we need something and not have to pay resort inflated prices.
Christine
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Yeah, I guess it's how you look at it and also a personality thing. I have an aversion to being "trapped" with people I don't want to be with so even a huge cruise ship is too small for me. I see it as a giant jail cell that I can't easily get off of when I feel like it. We had a cranky old curmudgeon that used to work with us and he LOVED taking that Alaska cruise all the time. Hmmm..I wonder if that extra cold air helped to lower the fury and grouchiness he always had simmering.
Diane
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I guess it is how you look at it. I like going to Las Vegas and some people hate the place. And I'm not a big gambler, I'm lucky I blow $20 in a night.
Christine
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Yeah, Alaska cruise would be magnificent! Or a cruise to see whales or something like that. Or a scuba dive cruise, where you go to watery hot spots! But yeah, cruising in boring waters just to spend a few hours in ports is odd.
Puck
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Well, we had at least 6 inches of snow...not to bad, fluffy enough to sweep with a broom vs. having to shovel. It's pretty, but I can't wait for it to melt already! :D It's supposed to be in the 50's on Monday, so that should help.
LisaG
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Also, some of our most fun family vacations have been cruises. You can spend as much or as little time together as you like - - and sometimes just meet for dinner at night and share what you've been up to that day............................................. They make their money on the gambling and casinos and booze. Still, if you're going to be drunk, be drunk on a ship where an employee will escort you safely to your room, instead of getting behind the wheel of a car. I don't ignore the bad things that do happen - in fact, we read about them pretty carefully - - - - and frankly, there was no REASON for this Italian ship's disaster. The captain and crew had poor judgment, poor training - - and deliberately went off course. They had no regard for the safety of their passengers. Inexcusable. That was a tragedy and probably every cruiser's worst nightmare.
Janet
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the STRANGEST weather here. Rain. In January. In the foothills of the Rockies. And it didn't freeze into ice overnight, which is also bizarre for this time of year. We've had flooding because the rain has nowhere to go, as the ground is frozen. We as in some parts of my valley. And now - - - all of a sudden, big feathery snowflakes coming down, covering up the puddles. Travel will be messy but we are so grateful for the moisture. Our rivers and reservoirs need it now for the demands of the summer. .............about cruises, of course those are all very real events and circumstances you've mentioned, and yet we've had some great ones. We will still continue to go. And you have to realize what you're signing up for when you go - - - a floating hotel that stops at interesting places. You don't have the depth of really traveling to that country, but you get a taste of it. And once you get there and unpack, well, there are very few decisions to make - - that's the joy of cruising. And we have rarely, rarely dealt with a crew member who was anything but kind and helpful. Passengers give plenty of feedback, and the employees are very aware of that. Plus, there are options where you can go ashore, do your thing for several days, or a week, whatever, and "catch the next boat" a few days later. There are also options built into Alaska cruises, where you can do some travel by land (train, etc.) and explore the inland areas at your leisure, and then join the next boat. Some cruises also sponsor those expeditions to the more interior areas. We have rarely seen passengers who are out of control. On the contrary, people tend to be friendly and considerate. We were once on a ship where Americans were in the minority - somehow, this particular cruise had attracted a lot of Europeans, Brits and Aussies, with good rates, etc. and we had some fascinating conversations with "the foreigners." You have to research cruises and talk to those who've been on them, and have a good idea what to expect. It's not for everyone. I never wanted to go on one - to spend a week on a big boat with 2000 of my new best friends? No, thank you. And Mr. J was afraid he'd be seasick. Well, some friends came over, literally sat on us and said we've been, we're going again, come with us. And we did. You just have to know what you're getting into, do your homework, and use your common sense.
Janet
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Elizabeth Smart was voted "Utah's person of the year" by . . I'm not sure who. It was a big deal, anyway. She stood there in court and testified against the scum who kidnapped her, never faltering. She was only 14 when they took her, but she kept a journal - - in cryptic FRENCH - - -with dates and events and how she was really feeling. Her other entries were in English in case her kidnappers should read them, and didn't hint at the truth. The only regret she has was that her kidnapper was not in court because she wanted to look him in the eyes when she testified. He'd act insane and start singing at every hearing, so he'd be sent into another room with video, with his lawyers. He was perfectly sane at other moments, even within the same hour as his rants. smart like a fox. They had 2 psychiatrists examine him, at great expense to the state. One said he's insane, not competent, the other said he's very competent and trying to fool us all. Both psychiatrists agreed to abide by the conclusions of a third expert, who said this guy is as sane as the rest of us and playing us for all we're worth. Go ahead and try him. Anyway, Elizabeth had just about everyone in tears as she testified, and, in private, even the people on the side of the defense. Everyone felt she owned the courtroom that day, that she had taken her life back, and handled herself with such grace and composure, we were all overwhelmed, just with the news reports. So she's getting married? No doubt Ed feels he knows this guy pretty well, because Ed is Ed, bless him, so that's happy news for Elizabeth and her family. I have nothing but respect for all of them. And if Elizabeth could take her life back, others may find the support to do it, too.
Janet
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Ladies, I agree. It would be one thing to take a nice Alaskan cruise to see the coastlines, something you can't just do on land, but I like my vacations on land. We like to drive around, stop at local historic or nice lookout points while we are out and about, even cheapo gift shops are fun! When we were in Vegas a couple of years ago, we rented a car and left the city proper to sight see. And as I told DH, if you have a rowdy drunk group at your hotel, you can change hotels or the hotel can kick them out, if you are out at sea, you are stuck with them.
christine
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Time to go shovel a bit...we'll see how much snow we got. :)
LisaG
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I see the cruise thing the same way as you, Christine. Also, the laws while at sea are not the same laws that would protect you on land. I also remember the Achille Lauro where terrorists boarded the cruise ship and took over and demanded all the passports because they wanted to kill all the American Jewish passengers. How scary. And thank goodness this current cruise ship was able to be brought so close to shore so people could swim to safety (those who were able to swim) otherwise an accident like that out at sea would have lost far more lives. Actually, if the captain hadn't turned the ship and brought it closer to land, many more would have drowned trying to get to shore but not able to make it. I'm not defending his other actions, though. And what about handicapped people aboard a cruise ship???!! How is someone infirmed in a wheel chair supposed to walk on the side of a capsized ship and shimmy down a rope to a rescue ship? What about someone blind? Way too scary. Nope, I like LAND. Terra Firma. That's for me. I like looking at the ocean very very much, though.
Diane
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I've never been crazy about going on a cruise ship just to be on a ship. I think it might be interesting to take a round-the-world cruise, where you are seeing the world in a leisurely manner, rather than jetting hither and yon at full speed. But just to circle the Caribbean, and only spent an hour or two in port? -- never understood that one.
Puck
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And I don't want to sound like I am mocking people who enjoy cruises, but there is so much more to see in the US or in this world then the deck of a ship! I wouldn't trade some of the beautiful places I have seen, Badlands, BLack Hills, Gettysburg, Starved Rock... for anything.
Christine
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Make that I'd rather look at them and nature's beauty around us then a ship's pool all day. __________________________ Mike, thanks for the link too!!!
Christine
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Last night one of the news shows had a very interesting piece on cruise ships... about the dangers of drunken passengers, no police on board to stop bad behavior, people going overboard and disappearing etc.... Just more reasons I don't do cruises. My SIL loves cruises, her family is doing their 10th cruise this year. I could see if they were doing an Alaskan cruise, I'm sure the sites are lovely, but they do a Mexican cruise twice a year. She was irate about the news show's piece. I swaer she must get paid by Carnival! When we went to S. Dakota several years back to see the Black Hills and Badlands, she said why would we want to go there and see bikers??? Well, at least the bikers appreciate the beauty of the land. I'd rather that then look at them then hang out at a ship's pool all day.
Christine
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Oy, I worry about my sister in NY State. She has to drive from Rochester 5 hours south to take her eldest back to college. Of course, she has to drive back as well. I think she may have drove it yesterday. I should call her.
Diane
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Thanks Mike! I can't wait!
Christine
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Pic of Johnny Depp as Barnabas Collins! Film comes out May 11th. http://i.usatoday.net/communitymanager/_photos/lifeline-live/2012/01/20/deppx-large.jpg
Mike, Collinsport Maine
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the snow storm is headed this way...they say western PA, new york and eastern ct will get the most...they're saying 5-8 inches. then it's supposed to warm up next week, so hopefully most will melt.
lisag
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I don't know where it is going next, but at least we are all home now. The snow is starting to taper off.
Christine
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Good for her!____SALT LAKE CITY -- A Utah woman kidnapped at knifepoint at age 14 and held captive for nine months is getting married.____A spokesman for 24-year-old Elizabeth Smart says she got engaged last weekend and will likely marry in the summer.______No details about the groom-to-be were disclosed. The spokesman says Smart plans to keep her personal life private._________Smart's father, Ed Smart, tells The Associated Press his future son-in-law is a "fine young man." Ed Smart says he's pleased for his daughter and hopes she has a happy life
Mike
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Christine - oy, be careful. Is that storm moving to NY state, do you know? That's where my family is.
Diane
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Delightful snow storm in our area. My son came home early, but waiting on DH. It is very bad out here.
Christine
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Legendary blues singer Etta James dies in Calif. By NEKESA MUMBI MOODY and ROBERT JABLON | Associated Press – 1 hour 11 minutes ago...LOS ANGELES (AP) — Etta James' performance of the enduring classic "At Last" was the embodiment of refined soul: Angelic-sounding strings harkened the arrival of her passionate yet measured vocals as she sang tenderly about a love finally realized after a long and patient wait. ...In real life, little about James was as genteel as that song. The platinum blonde's first hit was a saucy R&B number about sex, and she was known as a hell-raiser who had tempestuous relationships with her family, her men and the music industry. Then she spent years battling a drug addiction that she admitted sapped away at her great talents. ...The 73-year-old died on Friday at Riverside Community Hospital from complications of leukemia, with her husband and sons at her side, her manager, Lupe De Leon said. ..."It's a tremendous loss for her fans around the world," he said. "She'll be missed. A great American singer. Her music defied category." James' spirit could not be contained — perhaps that's what made her so magnetic in music; it is surely what made her so dynamic as one of R&B, blues and rock 'n' roll's underrated legends. ..."The bad girls ... had the look that I liked," she wrote in her 1995 autobiography, "Rage to Survive." ''I wanted to be rare, I wanted to be noticed, I wanted to be exotic as a Cotton Club chorus girl, and I wanted to be obvious as the most flamboyant hooker on the street. I just wanted to be." ..."Etta James was a pioneer. Her ever-changing sound has influenced rock and roll, rhythm and blues, pop, soul and jazz artists, marking her place as one of the most important female artists of our time," said Rock and Roll Hall of Fame President and CEO Terry Stewart. "From Janis Joplin to Joss Stone, an incredible number of performers owe their debts to her. There is no mistaking the voice of Etta James, and it will live forever." ...Despite the reputation she cultivated, she would always be remembered best for "At Last." The jazz-inflected rendition wasn't the original, but it would become the most famous and the song that would define her as a legendary singer. Over the decades, brides used it as their song down the aisle and car companies to hawk their wares, and it filtered from one generation to the next through its inclusion in movies like "American Pie." Perhaps most famously, President Obama and the first lady danced to a version at his inauguration ball. ...The tender, sweet song belied the turmoil in her personal life. James — born Jamesette Hawkins — was born in Los Angeles to a mother whom she described as a scam artist, a substance abuser and a fleeting presence during her youth. She never knew her father, although she was told and had believed, that he was the famous billiards player Minnesota Fats. He neither confirmed nor denied it: when they met, he simply told her: "I don't remember everything. I wish I did, but I don't." ...She was raised by Lula and Jesse Rogers, who owned the rooming house where her mother once lived in. The pair brought up James in the Christian faith, and as a young girl, her voice stood out in the church choir. James landed the solos in the choir and became so well known, she said that Hollywood stars would come to see her perform. ...But she wouldn't stay a gospel singer for long. Rhythm and blues lured her away from the church, and she found herself drawn to the grittiness of the music. ... "My mother always wanted me to be a jazz singer, but I always wanted to be raunchy," she recalled in her book. ...She was doing just that when bandleader Johnny Otis found her singing on San Francisco street corners with some girlfriends in the early 1950s. Otis, a legend in his own right, died on Tuesday. ..."At the time, Hank Ballard and the Midnighters had a hit with 'Work With Me, Annie,' and we decided to do an answer. We didn't think we would get in show business, we were just running around making up answers to songs," James told The Associated Press in 1987. And so they replied with the song, "Roll With Me, Henry." ...When Otis heard it, he told James to get her mother's permission to accompany him to Los Angeles to make a recording. Instead, the 15-year-old singer forged her mother's name on a note claiming she was 18. ..."At that time, you weren't allowed to say 'roll' because it was considered vulgar. So when Georgia Gibbs did her version, she renamed it 'Dance With Me, Henry' and it went to No. 1 on the pop charts," the singer recalled. The Gibbs song was one of several in the early rock era when white singers got hits by covering songs by black artists, often with sanitized lyrics. ...After her 1955 debut, James toured with Otis' revue, sometimes earning only $10 a night. In 1959, she signed with Chicago's legendary Chess label, began cranking out the hits and going on tours with performers such as Bobby Vinton, Little Richard, Fats Domino, Gene Vincent, Jerry Lee Lewis and the Everly Brothers. ..."We would travel on four buses to all the big auditoriums. And we had a lot of fun," she recalled in 1987. James recorded a string of hits in the late 1950s and '60s including "Trust In Me," ''Something's Got a Hold On Me," ''Sunday Kind of Love," ''All I Could Do Was Cry," and of course, "At Last." ..."(Chess Records founder) Leonard Chess was the most aware of anyone. He went up and down the halls of Chess announcing, 'Etta's crossed over! Etta's crossed over!' I still didn't know exactly what that meant, except that maybe more white people were listening to me. The Chess brothers kept saying how I was their first soul singer, that I was taking their label out of the old Delta blues, out of rock and into the modern era. Soul was the new direction," she wrote in her autobiography. "But in my mind, I was singing old style, not new." ...In 1967, she cut one of the most highly regarded soul albums of all time, "Tell Mama," an earthy fusion of rock and gospel music featuring blistering horn arrangements, funky rhythms and a churchy chorus. A song from the album, "Security," was a top 40 single in 1968. ...Her professional success, however, was balanced against personal demons, namely a drug addiction. ..."I was trying to be cool," she told the AP in 1995, explaining what had led her to try heroin. ..."I hung out in Harlem and saw Miles Davis and all the jazz cats," she continued. "At one time, my heavy role models were all druggies. Billie Holiday sang so groovy. Is that because she's on drugs? It was in my mind as a young person. I probably thought I was a young Billie Holiday, doing whatever came with that." ...She was addicted to the drug for years, beginning in 1960, and it led to a harrowing existence that included time behind bars. It sapped her singing abilities and her money, eventually, almost destroying her career. ...It would take her at least two decades to beat her drug problem. Her husband, Artis Mills, even went to prison for years, taking full responsibility for drugs during an arrest even though James was culpable. ..."My management was suffering. My career was in the toilet. People tried to help, but I was hell-bent on getting high," she wrote of her drug habit in 1980. ...She finally quit the habit and managed herself for a while, calling up small clubs and asking them, "Have you ever heard of Etta James?" in order to get gigs. Eventually, she got regular bookings — even drawing Elizabeth Taylor as an audience member. In 1984, she was tapped to sing the national anthem at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and her career got the resurgent boost it needed, though she fought addiction again when she got hooked on painkillers in the late 1980s. ...Drug addiction wasn't her only problem. She struggled with her weight, and often performed from a wheelchair as she got older and heavier. In the early 2000s, she had weight-loss surgery and shed some 200 pounds. ...James performed well into her senior years, and it was "At Last" that kept bringing her the biggest ovations. The song was a perennial that never aged, and on Jan. 20, 2009, as crowds celebrated that — at last — an African-American had become president of the United States, the song played as the first couple danced. ...But it was superstar Beyonce who serenaded the Obamas, not the legendary singer. Beyonce had portrayed James in "Cadillac Records," a big-screen retelling of Chess Records' heyday, and had started to claim "At Last" as her own. ...An audio clip surfaced of James at a concert shortly after the inauguration, saying she couldn't stand the younger singer and that Beyonce had "no business singing my song." But she told the New York Daily News later that she was joking, even though she had been hurt that she did not get the chance to participate in the inauguration. ...James did get her accolades over the years. She was inducted into the Rock Hall in 1993, captured a Grammy in 2003 for best contemporary blues album for "Let's Roll," one in 2004 for best traditional blues album for "Blues to the Bone" and one for best jazz vocal performance for 1994's "Mystery Lady: Songs of Billie Holiday." She was also awarded a special Grammy in 2003 for lifetime achievement and got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ...Her health went into decline, however, and by 2011, she was being cared for at home by a personal doctor. ...She suffered from dementia, kidney problems and leukemia. Her husband and her two sons fought over control of her $1 million estate, though a deal was later struck keeping Mills as the conservator and capping the singer's expenses at $350,000. In December 2011, her physician announced that her leukemia was terminal, and asked for prayers for the singer. In October 2011, it was announced that James was retiring from recording, and a final studio recording, "The Dreamer," was released, featuring the singer taking on classic songs, from Bobby "Blue" Bland's "Dreamer" to Guns N' Roses "Welcome To the Jungle" — still rocking, and a fitting end to her storied career. [http://music.yahoo.com/news/legendary-blues-singer-etta-james-dies-calif-163709371.html]
kmp
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Diane - Yeah, I use my credit cards more than anything...better protection, plus I get 1% back on one card that i can apply to paying the balance or bump up to more money by getting gift cards with sponsored stores.
lisag
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Very well written and to-the-point piece in that link you posted, KMP. Thank you! That writer hit the nail on the head!
Diane
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Oh, ok, thanks for explaining, KMP!
Diane
-

Diane - the one we get from AAA doesn't. It may be different from other prepaid cards though in that respect. It's not like a prepaid card tied to a specific store, like a gift card is. You DO get charged a transition fee for using it at a ATM but it's no more than what you might get charged using a debit card. It's similar to a debit card in that respect, but you key it in as a credit card.
kmp
-

Lisa - Yes, I have to admit I'm addicted to using my debit card for everything now. You are right -- gas stations can be the worst. I should probably only use my credit card for that I guess. My ATM card number gets stolen about once every 2 or 3 years -- and I do use it a lot. Once --- my number was stolen on the brand new replacement card -- and I hadn't even received it in the mail yet so what was up with that? How could it get stolen when I didn't even activate the card yet? But it was, and that card had to be ditched, too.
Diane
-

KMP - Don't those prepaid credit cards depreciate about 3% a month, though? We got some for a co-worker who was retiring and I looked up the card amounts for him, and they were depreciating about 3% a month so he had to hurry up and use them. And gosh, I wonder why those stores aren't taking debit cards anymore. That's alarming. They aren't only accepting cash, are they?
Diane
-

I only use my ATM/Debit card to withdraw money at my bank. I usually pay cahs or check (yes it is archiac) when I go out.
Christine
-

Janet - OUCH! Sorry to hear about your foot woes...you can't seem to catch a break! I hope they feel better soon.
LisaG
-

Diane - What a PITA! Do you use your ATM/Debit card in a lot of places? I only use it at a bank and very rarely at the local grocery store if I need some cash. They say to try to avoid using it at gas stations, etc where people may be able to see the code you punch in and can get your card number wirelessly.
LisaG
-

Love this review of the show-whose-name-will-not-be-spoken (the one replacing OLTL): http://www.examiner.com/abc-in-national/one-life-to-live-fans-will-never-be-trained-to-watch-the-revoultion
kmp
-

I haven't used an ATM/debit card in nearly 20 years. My husband uses one and at least one or twice a month forgets to log it in his checkbook. GRRRR!!!! There are places around where we live that are beginning to NOT accept debit cards for whatever reason.
kmp
-

Of course, we do still have our credit card(s) to fall back on if necessary. Like you, we notify them that we're going out of the country (and let them know which countries) we'll be in - or traveling through, in case any charges come up. We also carry the international numbers to use to contact them in case there are any issues that come up using them - or if we lose them or if their stolen. The numbers to call from overseas are different than those used to contact them in the USA.
kmp
-

Oh, and it's good for several years. You just put more money onto it as needed.
kmp
-

Janet - instead of a debit card, check into a prepaid credit card. When we travel we get one through AAA. You can put on any amount you want. If it should get stolen or lost, all that is gone is the amount of money you have on it. And another plus is that it isn't tied to your bank account(s) or any other credit card. The 'name' on it is simply 'Travel Visa'. You can get cash from any ATM - either in the currency of the country you're in or in US dollars. We used ours in Argentina over Christmas without any problem.
kmp
-

Yeah, I think they just call it a Debit card these days because when I go to purchase something and tell them I'm using an ATM card, they stop and go "you mean a debit card?" So I guess debit card is the correct term now.
Diane
-

I guess they are the same thing! Okay, so I'll say, "I never use it at an ATM machine."
Puck
-

My debit/ATM number got stolen again so I'm without one until a new one comes in the mail.
Diane
-

Aren't and ATM and a Debit card the same thing?
Diane
-

You're smart and well-prepared, Janet. I wouldn't have thought to call the credit card company to let them know there would be charges from another country so they wouldn't think the card was stolen. So sorry about your foot. Is there any reason why it might have flared up again?
Diane
-

I use a debit card like crazy, but haven't used an ATM card since I had my first checking account. I got in a bit of trouble with it, and decided it wasn't worth it.
Puck
-

Janet - Never used an ATM card???? I can't imagine it. I've been using one for 25 years.
Diane
-

I will be posting from Finland in 2 weeks. Trying to cross items off my to-do list but more keep popping up. Go to bank to pick up euros, get an atm card (we've never used one), bug t-mobile to add international service to my plan (no cost) in case I should need to call (otherwise I'll skype and email), call my credit card companies to tell them yes, if charges come from Finland, it will be me, call insurance company to have some of my prescriptions refilled before their due dates so I'll have a month's supply with me, on and on. I got my hair cut today and have assembled almost everything I'm packing for the kids. ....................Now an unhappy complication has shown up - my right foot, which had 2 complicated and extensive surgeries, is worse than ever. I can hardly walk on it today. Maybe I can get a steroid injection early next week. And maybe I'll have to request a wheelchair at the airports. Dang! I'm headed to the freezer for the ice packs now.
Janet
-

They found that woman already. He was only having dinner with her so I don't know why they are making a big deal about it. Turns out she was on the ship legally (or so I've read) and paid her fare. I think they tried to make a mystery out of it, but it didn't pan out. The carrier also was not so truthful about the whole thing because in August 2011, they had him sail very close to that same island because there was some "Island of Lights" fair or something like that they thought the passengers might want to see. He followed almost the same exact route as August but not quite, and that was the disaster. However, it is true that THIS TIME, he was not given permission to take that route but decided to override the route planned and go near the island again so.....he's at fault.
Diane
-

Now they are looking for the mystery woman that he was dining with. I bet he was drunk.
Christine
-

I don't know if there is a way on that ship with everything being so computerized now to tell that the ship had a huge hole in the bottom right after it happened. Because 40 minutes were lost before the passengers were told to get on life vests and abandon the ship. But by then the ship had tilted and getting most all of the life boats was now impossible. And I was thinking -- if a ship is in trouble so that it has to be abandoned at sea.....wouldn't the only possible scenarios be a huge hole underneath the ship where water was entering? And that ALWAYS causes a ship to tilt because of the weight of the water. So how can the life boats be launched with a tilted ship?
Diane
-

Now the captain says he "fell" overboard into a departing lifeboat. How convenient.
Christine
-

LOL! We had the board game, too, at home! I think it actually had something that looked like an etchorsketch but you rolled it and the next puzzle would come up. So you had a roll of them. It was so fun.
Diane
-

OMG! Concentration! I remember that one! We had a board game of that show...trying to remember the previous picture for matches was fun!
LisaG
-

Lisa - You mean they now fill in letters to start the puzzles off? You know what show I miss -- Concentration. I loved that show.
Diane
-

I agree about the cruises. I have no desire to ever take one because it scares the heck out of me to be on that huge ship and have nowhere to go in a disaster but into the cold dark sea. Just seeing the movie Titanic scares the wits out of me. The ship is so massive and huge and is a danger in itself -- imagine having to jump overboard from such a height (even when it's sinking) into the ocean among sharks and everything else. Plus I love SPACE and no matter how large they make these ships, I wouldn't like being confined to one for so many days.
Diane
-

wow...happen to decide to watch wheel of fortune...i haven't watched in years. how boring! for many puzzles, they automatically fill in the letters for the players vs.having the players ask. yuk.
lisag
-

Christine - I have an ultraviolet water purifier that I take with me everywhere on vacation, except my mom's or nantucket or my sister's. Maybe I should take it everywhere, just in case.
LisaG
-

Oh *sniff!* I just heard that a local CT meterologist, Dr Mel, just passed away. Multiple myeloma...he was only 66. He was a really wonderful CT tv personality and very accurate with the weather. So very sad that so many of the good die much too young.
LisaG
-

My husband and I were saying the same thing last night. Imagine being on a plane for 3 days or more? With no where to go? I know some people who swear by cruises, but if you are out in the middle of the sea, you can't go anywhere. All the stomach bugs, sewage issues, issues with sickos who are out to do God knows what to you (and you have no where to run!).... no thanks!
Christine
-

Diane - amazing sight, isn't it? so sad that people lost their lives for the ego of the captain wanting to wave to his friends on the mainland coast. yet another reason i will never take a cruise...you have nowhere to go if there are problems except into the chilly water. also the problems with the sanitization (or lack thereof) on board...all those people that have gotten sick is scary! ----------- here's a funny bit of news, the mom-ster has booked a trip out west for 2 weeks to visit yellowstone and some other parks during the same time I'm planning to be at Arches and Canyonlands! Bizzaro!
LisaG
-

I can't get over that beautiful cruise ship lying on it's side in those beautiful waters off the southern coast of Italy. Those poor people. I think I would have had a heart attack.
Diane
-

Aha, now I see. Thanks, Puck.
Diane
-

Diane -- I think Todd (who was actually twin "Victor" brainwashed to think he was Todd) was killed by RogerHowarthTodd, but he framed Tomas, Tea's brother and Blair's lover. Yeah, boy howdy that was a twist!
Puck
-

Janet - Are you coming here from Finland? Are you in Finland now?
Diane
-

Question on OLTL -- At the end of the last episode, we see that Allison Perkins has the blonde Todd tied up in bed. Was that "Todd" killed supposedly? And by who?
Diane
-

Oops! Somehow I pasted the URL twice. It's http://www.wbng.com/news/gallery/Living-With-West-Syndrome-137522728.html
Mike
-

OK, y'all have got to read this story. It's about a local infant, just a shade over 4 months old, who has a VERY rare disorder that causes seizures and twitches, and ther is just one medicine that can help him, and it's so expensive I swear to God it is the most shocking thing I've ever seen or read (it's not a typo, various news reports have the same $ value). You have to read it for the shock value, I won't post it here. I just cannot believe it. I've never heard of any medicine cost nearly, and I mean not even remotely this much and this is just for one vial. http://www.wbng.com/news/gallery/Living-With-West-Syndrome-137522728.htmlhttp://www.wbng.com/news/gallery/Living-With-West-Syndrome-137522728.html
Mike
-

Christine: while I would love to see more of her on A Gifted Man, I'm sure the producers/directors want to limit her scenes somewhat, so they'll be even more meaningful (as she's a ghost). I love her as a redhead. Sometimes I wish her ex would be nicer to her :)I've wondered if they'd address possible flashbacks so we could see them when they were married and struggling in Alaska. Again, that could take away from who they want her to be now. I'll just have to be satisfied with her brief moments, good as they are. What a smile she has, and that red hair! Will make a note of the film you mentioned . . . .. The last film I saw with Rosemary Harris was soooooo odd,with Jason Robards, such a strange movie (A Wife for Christmas)that I just couldn't connect with, so I'll be pleased to see her in something else. And what a history she has on the stage.
Janet
-

Janet, I love Jennifer Ehle. If you can see the movie "Sunshine". It is about a Jewish HUngarian family during WWI, the rise of Nazism and Communism. Her mother, Rosemary Harris plays her as an older woman. Fantastic film, long, but it will stay with you.
christine
-

Lisa: yes, definitely avoid a holiday.
Janet
-

Betty is a classic.Such a funny lady. Anybody watching Downton Abbey on PBS? It is splendid, but the character I absolutely adore is played by the one and only Maggie Smith. May she never retire! She gets the most delicious lines, and her hats would be outrageous on some, but she carries them off beautifully. .........another show I really like is A Gifted Man. Good acting, good scripts. Love Jennifer Ehle and Patrick Wilson . . .
Janet
-

Janet - thanks for the info. REI has the trip I'm looking at and they suggested the mid-May trip for the best weather and flora...plus they say I'll avoid the crowds of the last week of May (Memorial Day).
LisaG
-

Happy 90th birthday, Betty White! :)
LisaG
-

Hi, just dropped in for a minute and saw Lisa's question. I would say the later dates would be more promising. The weather can still be unpredictable, so later is better. And yes, you'll be walking/hiking in water, most likely . . . one of my sons did it, loved it. Have you googled some websites where people report on their trips to the area? That might answer some of your questions and suggest how to prepare. .........good point, Puck. Chamberlain was terrific in the original Bourne Identity, and also the miniseries about Japan, Shogun. I have always thought he was a stellar actor with a gorgeous voice....... And yes, these great actors are turning up on TV and we're all glad for that. Michael Emerson? Looks just like a regular guy, doesn't he? But that voice, and what he can do with it, and that face . .. loved him on Lost. Being evil is more interesting when you don't actually look evil, at least for the audience. I would love to see him on stage. Can't say enough about him, though he didn't come to my attention until I saw him on Lost. Then I'd see him in other roles, some small, always well done. And yes, Jeremy Irons was spellbinding on L & O. Without shows such as Law and Order and its spinoffs, some actors wouldn't have as many opportunities to work. They get great parts and good stories and good writing, even if they're just for an episode. .............anybody here a Glee fan? Loved the synchronized swimming, what a hoot, and the girls singing The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - - beautiful arrangement for beautiful voices . . . . . . such a contrast in the musical numbers, and so many numbers - the theme wasn't presented with as much unity (as in music from one group's repertoire for most of the episode - they were all over the map tonight) but it was an episode packed with good music and good fun. I really enjoyed the fleetwood Mac episode, such good songs.
Janet
-

I've been thinking a lot about this lately, because on many of my favorite shows, the quality of the acting and writing has really gone through the roof. Yesterday, we watched our tape of the season finale of "Leverage", a show with an already stellar ensemble cast -- but in the two-part finale, they added Tom Skerritt as Timothy Hutton's grifter father, Wil Wheaton as a competitive hacker, and (most sublime of all!) Richard Chamberlain as a master pickpocket and grifter. Frankly, RC pretty much outshined them all -- and do you all remember, as I do, when he was the most compelling actor, when he was in "The Thorn Birds"? Swoon! And there he was in a small part on a weekly show, and he was amazing. ............................................ In fact, a lot of famous "movie" actors are shining on the small screen. "Person of Interest" is absolutely fantastic with Jim Caviezel and Michael Emerson -- JC's gravitas is off the charts, but the other actors (especially the weekly villain-of-the-week) are able to hold their own with him. Beau Bridges did a few episodes of "White Collar", and Jeremy Irons was flabbergastingly wonderful in several episodes of Law & Order: SVU". I could go on and on -- but what I'm seeing is big-name actors who no longer fear any stigma associated with TV acting, and who bring their obviously higher quality acting to the small screen and to small roles, but who make those roles memorable. And the fact that the regular actors on those shows can hold their own against the veterans speaks very highly to the quality of those actors as well................................................. Which brings us to the issue of James Franco on GH. I am very grateful that an actor of his caliber and popularity has, for some reason, taken a shine to GH, and is doing much to remove the stigma of soap acting, I think his success on the show is a mixed bag. Yeah, he's a great villain, but in most cases, his heavy acting schedule means he usually comes in and tapes stand-alone scenes -- he lurks, he's on a video, he's peering around a corner -- and he interacts very little with the shows regular actors. I wish that, if he's that interested in acting on GH, that he would go full throttle, and actually ACT with the other actors!
Puck
-

I agree that soap actors work hard -- but some of them aren't all that good at their craft. For example, I've always thought Melissa Archer (Natalie) a terrible actress! As was once said of Katherine Hepburn, she runs the emotional gamut from A to B -- she's either sweet and loving, or a hotheaded redhead (and not even realistically). In all the years on the show, she hasn't grown in her craft, and has no more skills than the first day on the show. Sure she works hard and apparently knows how to be a soap actress (I mean, she shows up, can memorize many pages of dialog, etc), but she's not all that great at it.................................... On the other hand, there are some really sublime soap actors out there, but on the other hand, why can't we enjoy excellent on our shows, rather than lose all the "good ones" to the big screen?
Puck
-

And how insulting for the media (who is usually behind the times by a decade or more) to think people are getting more shallow and will flock to their TV's for more garbage on what to wear and how to wear it, etc. instead of wanting a well-written story.
Diane
-

I don't know why soap actors sometimes have such a hard time breaking into prime time TV or movies. Like Cat was describing, they work so hard to put on 5 shows in a single week ---- more work than probably anything else on the screens --- they should be naturally great at any kind of pressure after that. My friend who had bit parts on soaps told me how intimidating it is when you first get there. There are booths up high and voices coming down and bright lights and it can feel like a pressure cooker. And I'm also so sick of the so-called reality shows. Enough is enough! Like Thorsten described once -- it's NOT reality if you put a camera in front of them because people act differently when there's a camera there. People want ESCAPE -- NOT realism. Even fake realism.
Diane
-

Yeah, that new Revolution show sure sounds like a flop!! Yay! Loved the funny review.
Diane
-

That would be "made up". Make up storie are OK, too.
Cat
-

Captain Obvious! Love it. I don't need fake reality. I want real make up stories. Things will get to the point where they don't do daily soaps anymore and will wonder how they ever did it. I always marveled at how they did a new show - and really complex diologue, because, hey, setting up shots like a movie would take too long and some people only listened to it - like radio - five days a week. And really good shows, too.
Cat
-

Its usually OL time and I have no show to watch!
Christine
-

I wonder if that set is going to be safely stored somewhere.
Diane
-

Lisa -- Yeah, I remember during the Luke and Laura days, that college campuses were filled with students so hooked to the TV. I also wonder if college students still watch the soaps like they did back then. Not sure if they did during Patrick and Marty because their affair was so short-lived and didn't have much adventure to it (just frustration)after Michael Malone left. If Malone had stayed, the story would have been so much better and maybe they would have attracted the college crowd like Luke and Laura did.
Diane
-

Mike - Ha! Just wanted to lock in my times. Plus, during the winter, it lets me dream about summer a bit. :) ---------------------- I remember my first big encounter with soaps...it was in college during the GH Luke and Laura and the Ice Princess days. I remember tailoring my schedule around air time, so I would be able to watch it! Oh man, that sounds so sad. Still, I recall one day, I was late getting out of a class and my friend and I ran to the student center to watch, since we didn't have time to get home...it was standing room only!!! That's how hooked people were on that story. I wonder if they were like that with Patrick and Marty on OLTL?
Lisa G
-

Cat - I feel the same way. My memories of OLTL start back when I was still in school. How I hated having to go to work every day when I was 18 and to have to miss OLTL in those pre-VCR days. So I begged my mother (who I begged to watch OLTL every day for me) to tell me what happened each day. But it went like this, "Well, you know the blonde." (Me -- which blonde?) "The one with -- you know, the one married to the guy." (which guy?) "The one who lives in the big house. Well, she cheated with this other guy." Oy, I gave up. Didn't get into OLTL again until I got hired at Fox in 1987 and was urged to turn on the TV (everyone had one in their offices) at lunchtime and watch sometime. So there was OLTL -- Tina going over the Iguazu falls. And that was it. We all got re-hooked on OLTL in that trailer and would take over the conference room at lunchtime to watch on two screens. Ah, the days. The drama could not be matched. You are right, the acting (from most of them) was amazing. Such talent.
Diane
-

Lisa, no one can ever say you don't plan ahead!
Mike
-

Oh, now I know that guy! He's hilarious!
Puck
-

woo hoo! just made my car ferry reservation to nantucket for september!
LisaG
-

Puck, this link is a pic of Albert Brooks circa 1980s. The main reason that Tweet floored me as it sounds just like him in the film I was watching at the time. Sounds like him basically anyway, a nice dry wit. http://movies.shut.net/library/slir/h312/content/person/13/albert-brooks.jpg
Mike
-

OMG! Hilarious! Steven Colbert just announced on his show that since he didn't make the cut off to get on the SC Republican primary ballot and SC doesn't allow write-ins, that a vote for Herman Cain (who is no longer in the race) would be a vote for Colbert! And even better, ANYone can vote in the primary in SC...you don't have to be a registered Republican, so he urged EVERYone (esp Democrats) to go out an vote for Cain! ROTFLOL! He's really showing what a travesty elections are in this country.
LisaG
-

Watched the last week of OLTL, and LOVED it. Totally agree with all pundits and everyone here, who says it was a colossal mistake on the part of ABC. I hope all the replacement shows are tanking, and I'm religiously avoiding them. I even make sure my TV is OFF the ABC channel, just in case they can figure out what I'm watching during the day! (No, I don't have a Nielsen box -- just paranoia about the ratings system!) I don't even want to them accidentally think I watch what replaced the shows.
Puck
-

I think I am mixing him up with someone older. I'm not even sure! -- I have in my head someone who was old in the 1960s, even before the sitcoms were in color. I don't know who I'm thinking of!!!
Puck
-

A review of the replacement show (won't say its name) from the Chicago Tribune-------------------------------------- Don’t let the name fool you: There’s nothing revolutionary about “The Revolution.” ABC’s new daytime talker, filling the time slot of the canceled “One Live to Live,” promises its team of lifestyle experts will help both viewers and its televised “heroes” of the week transform their bodies, minds, style, health and environment. What it actually delivers — besides one long Macy’s commercial — is a bunch of platitudes, lame tips (“embrace color”), television’s millionth makeover and advice from the no-duh handbook. On Monday’s debut, style guru Tim Gunn (“Project Runway”) gave one woman a “Timtervention” by swapping her mom jeans for a miniskirt. He then shared one of the fashion world’s biggest secrets: High heels make legs look longer. Thanks, Officer Obvious. Maybe on Tuesday we’ll learn that hats are worn on the head. The show also focuses on one or two women — sorry, “heroes” — as their lives are changed during a five-month transformation that gets condensed to five days. Each week, the players will change. But you can bet the plot will stay the same, starting with tears and ending in a smaller dress size.
christine
-

Cat, I remember being SOOOOO happy when we had vacation days because I could watch my soaps. Back about 20 years ago, I decided I would only loyally follow one soap and that one became OL. Even when I couldn't watch it, I would catch spoilers and read recaps. I feel such a loss. Tomorrow I am off, it is due to snow, I might be at home in the afternoon.... I have no OLTL to watch. I am at a loss. I refuse to watch the replacement show (I can't even say its name). I might catch GH when our friends are there, but in all honesty, it is too much about the mob. Kind of boring.
Christine
-

Mike sent me some photos and that got me to looking around. Thanks, Mike. I'll try to rotate some of them. Just so sad. So sad. I'm really going to miss the show. I remember watching it almost 40 years ago. Took a break in high school - pre VCR - and then picked back up in college. That's mid 80"s! Watched it through good and bad, great and dull, knowing it was going to come around again. The actors are all so talented, worked so hard, I hate to see the show leave. At least it went out on a upswing. It was going great lately! And no, I won't be watching GH, and no other soaps will do, expecially not those stupid shows ABC is putting on.
Cat
-

I also loved Michelle Williams' purple dress. It looked so elegant yet not overdone!
Christine
-

And also that these people were fortunate enough to do work they LOVE. Studies have shown that Americans die sooner than most Europeans, and they have shown that Americans are the most unhappy at their jobs. In Europe, education is paid for so it is common for people there to change careers (and most do, I read) 2-4 times in their lifetimes so, when asked, Europeans claimed to be happy with their jobs, and most Americans claimed they were not. Being miserable at a job can lead to high bp and heart attacks.
Diane
-

Did anyone watch the GGs last night? I caught some of it. Fashion was okay, some of the women though... how did they sit down? Kate Winslet looked good as always and I like the fact that while slim, she isn't stick thin. She looks normal. And maybe I am wrong buy Brad and Angelina looked very cozy and comfortable with each other. Guess it works for them?
Christine
-

I think it has to do with keeping the mind active.
Christine
-

Interesting, Lisa! I also notice that people who live their lives in the academic community having very high degrees and living their life supporting what they love or doing what they love --- symphony conductors, also live so very old. I read my university's chronical every week and have noticed these people die very old -- in their 90's -- and also never stop working (because they are fortunate to do something they love with all their heart).
Diane
-

maybe you're thinking about mel brooks? but he's still alive, too...will be 86 this year! they say the longest living profession is comedians...interesting, cause betty white will be 90 tomorrow (!), don rickles is still around, etc. maybe they have something there...maybe laughter really *IS* the best medicine! :D
LisaG
-

Puck, Albert Brooks is only 64...what made you think he may no longer had been among us? Or are you mixing up the name with someone much older?
MIke
-

Mike -- that's funny! I didn't even know he was still alive.
Puck
-

Hey Janet - I have a question for you about weather in the SLC area. I'm planning to go on a hiking trip in May to Arches & Canyonlands with REI...there are 3 trip offerings each at different times...Apr 29 – May 5, May 8–14 and May 21–27. Can you tell me which time you think the weather would be best? I don't want to go when it's too chilly and part of the hike may be in ankle to calf deep river water. I sent an email to REI, but haven't heard back from them yet and wanted to see if someone in the area like you might have an opinion. Thanks!!!
LisaG
-

Mike, lol!!!
Christine
-

LOL! Was watching one of my alltime faves today (Broadcast News) and went IMDB-ing during the film and found that Albert Brooks tweets a lot. Decided to follow him. I really don't use Twitter, well, I do not tweet myself, but I figured Brooks would be a hoot. First thing I see from him is this "Not feeling well. What's the cutoff date for "In Memoriam" at the Oscars?".
MIke
-

I just read a story in the Boston Globe. Another explanation on why soaps are good and what TV owes to them: http://www.bostonherald.com/entertainment/television/general/view/20220113epic_one_life_draws_to_close/srvc=home&position=recent
christine
-

That was such a beautiful speech by Vicky -- most likely written by Agnes Nixon herself I'm guessing. It was right on the money. I also hope they will combine the two soaps -- but are they willing to employ all those actors and bring in writers from OLTL to do that? I know all of them are not moving, but maybe they are transitioning a small number at a time. It could fill up an hour and then some, huh? Would love for it to happen, though.
Diane
-

Mike, I saw that.
Christine
-

LOL. On SoapCentral, on the GH forum many there are certain of a GH/OLTL full merge. In a thread to come up with a name or the combo soap, one reply had "Two Soaps to Live, on life support in the Hospital"
Mike
-

Thank you... so well said.... I want my show back! I don't want to be shown how I should dress or lose weight ( I have half a brain, I can figure it out) by some celeb. I want OL!
Christine
-

The fans are so loyal, so passionate, so invested in their stories. I always asked how they started watching "Fraternity Row". Some of them were stay at home mothers taking a break before their children came home from school. Others were college students with free time between classes. Many of them inherited a love for the show from their parents, or their grandparents, who were longtime fans themselves.___________I remember the first time I tuned in to "Fraternity Row". I was hooked instantly. I needed to know what would happen next to these fascinating people. Would the hero and heroine find their way back to true love? Would the villians get their comeuppance? Or would their crimes go unpunished? Would loving families overcome their obstacles? Or would their troubles prove too difficult to surmount?__________Ultimately, that's what soap opera is about - families. Close families. Rival families. Even families that are unexpected. Or the ones we choose for ourselves. And when a show is lucky enough to be on the air as long as "Fraternity Row" has been on, these families become extentions of our own. The audience might be upset when a favorite actor leaves. But they are always willing to welcome a new one, even when that new cast member is quite different than the one being replaced. After all, this is a place where people come back from the dead, go to grade school in the morning and come home from high school in the afternoon. Because for every new face, every new couple, every new family - there are long familiar faces. Some who've grown up before our very eyes. And a few more we hope to watch grow up.____________We know them so well. They've become our friends. We yearn for their happiness - especially when it's hard-won. We laugh as they laugh, we cry as they cry. We can't imagine doing without them. And when things are at the very worst on the show, that's when we seem to enjoy them the most. There's just one thing we have to do to keep them in our lives...............tune in tomorrow.
Victoria Lord Gordon Riley Burke Riley Buchanan Buchanan Carpenter Davidson Banks
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Mike - Oh, NY. Ok, thanks.
Diane
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Diane, Port Chuck is in NY State.
Mike
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Just watched yesterday's ep, and boy that was enough to get the tears flowing. LOVED the wisdom in using Fraternity Row to say all the things they wanted to say to the fans about losing OLTL disguised as talking about FR. Won't be able to watch today's ep until Tuesday at lunchtime but I'll try not to read anyone's comments so you guys can talk about today's. One thing -- wow, sure was and is a lot of baby-having lately in Llanview! I wonder what the story will be how the others end up in Port Charles (which is supposed to be in VA, right?)
Diane
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Rebecca, is was a fitting ending. Enough ends tied up and several still loose. AS I say, it is Llanview, not all things will end neatly.
Christine
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Mike, not spoiling either, I thought that Nora's reaction was so emotional, even I got choked up. Just consider the impact of that storyline.
Christine
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OMG! I cannot wait to get home to watch this. I will be tuning in to GH from now on.
rebecca
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Christine. Trying not to spoil here, but the thing that occured that caused Nora to emotionally cover her mouth with her hand...that to me was the top emotional moment of the show. (especially the first person they showed and HIS reaction to what caused Nora to do that). GREAT show today.
Mike
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I know, Mike, I don't want to spoil it. I had my kleenex in hand. And I screamed at the end!
Christine
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3:02pm Friday the f-in 13th, 2012____ well, that's a wrap. It's over. GREAT final episode, VERY few weak spots. Some surprises, some returns you might not expect, and a doozy of a surpise at the very end. Won't spoil anything for those who recorded, but you WILL enjoy it and you WILL need a box or two of Kleenex.
Mike
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I knew it! Wow! I could see a foot under the blanket and just knew it! Why can't we have another week?????
Christine
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I watched "The View" and was tearing up! Oh my show!
Christine
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Yup....sad day :-(. I first started watching 22 years ago, hard to believe!!! I actually teared up during yesterday's episode. Can't believe the show is ending :-(
Kathleen
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Yeah, me too. I am still having a hard time wrapping my brain around the fact that today, January 13, 2012, it all comes to an end in Llanview. By the way, appranetly two more OLTL folk are moving to GH in addition to the already announced Todd, Blair, Starr and John McB. However WHO has not yet been announced. Was checking the GH forum on SoapCentral and there are VERY mixed emotions there on this development (as well as the AMC forum lamenting that "hey, we have great actors too! WHat about some of ours?). In either case, I was going to start watching GH anyway, this just cements it. Hopefully the show will hold my interest.
Mike
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Hello Patty! Yes, this is it! The last day of OLTL. I am so sad!
Christine
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Happy last day of OLTL! What a lot of great memories the show has given me. I will always remember the Megan/Jake days and Patrick! My kids were so little when I watched every day. They are now 24, 22, and 17. My youngest was about six months old when I found the GB. I am so glad OLTL allowed me to meet many of the GB group. Especially Merf. I still have my GB hat. I haven't had a chance to watch the show very much in the last few years, and I don't know if I can bring myself to watch the very last one. It is like saying a last farewell to an old friend. Best regards to you all, and as Patrick would say cheers!
Patty B
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WE all made it home! But it was rough going..... just watching OL. I like when Vicki is talking and she is talking about characters on Fraternity Row... when shementions actors leaving and being replaced by someone very different and then they showed Blair with an odd look on her face! In that one speech everything we love about the soaps was summed up and all I can say is that these replacement shows will never be close to my heart ever.
christine
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Here's a link to a website by Mike Fairman. At this link he talks about the final OLTL cast photo that has been seen on TV but what's specil here is an HD video filmed live during that last photo shoot. Worth a look. http://michaelfairmansoaps.com/news/behind-the-scenes-of-the-final-cast-photo-of-one-life-to-live-watch-the-video/2012/01/11/
Mike
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Oh - I see you are not at home yet. How far do you live from work? They should close the library and let you all go home. 8 hours of snow is too much!!
Diane
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I'm so glad your son got home ok, Christine. Are you home or still at work? You should be able to leave if its snowing like that.
Diane
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Ugh, it continues to snow for the last 8 hours out here! I can't wait to be home!
Christine
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Waiting until I get my money for sure from this Trust thing because I would like to upgrade from the slowest DSL connection at home to the next fast one so I can watch things like this on the home PC.
Diane
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Tomorrow is the very last ep??? YIKES! My PC gave me trouble today watching today's ep and went silent on me AGAIN while watching. Tried rebooting and the sound back back until I tried to FF a few minutes and gone it went again. But I will have to catch tomorrow's ep next Tues on my lunch hour. I can't believe it -- the last ep of OL. Went to watching some vintage stuff on Youtube of Megan and Prince Raymond in Mendorrah (aka Salzburg, Austria) and also some stuff of Tina at Statesville with Jaime Sanders and the scene where the poison spilled on Maria while she was trying to kill Tina. Maria sure was a nut case. Oh, and how YOUNG Cord and Max were in Argentina! Young sexy guys. Very nice.
Diane
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sorry about the test, what I posted wasn't loading.
Christine
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test
Christine
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Yay! Son made it home and said the roads weren't bad. He was also somewhat aghast that I was calling him. I told him I'm his mom, I'm worried!
Christine
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Diane, tomorrow, Friday the 13th, is the last episode :-( . Going to catch the repeat on soapnet tonight and I'm home tomorrow to watch it as it unfolds. _________________________________ Major snow here.... I'm at work calling home every two minutes to make sure my son got home okay. I'm so nervous. right now he is about 10 minutes late.
Christine
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Does anyone know if today's show was the last show for OL? Or do we have one more week?
Diane
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no spoilers but GREAT OLTL today...gosh, I'm going to miss this show, been watching it since 1971! Loved the "interview" with Viki!
Anita
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Tristan Rogers is coming back to GH!
Christine
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I hope so too, Diane. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Christine
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I was thinking the same thing, Christine -- that OL might come back on the air at some point (not too far away)but with the filming changed to Los Angeles. I liked the NY feel to OLTL, though, but I would really like to see it come back anyway. It shouldn't have been cancelled and I hope the stooges at ABC/Disney realize their stupidity at some point and fix what wasn't broken to start with.
Diane
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I was just remembering and looked it up. Michael Easton (John) played a vampire on the GH spin off "Port Charles". Weird!
Christine
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I am also hearing rumors how this helps to keep OL "alive" maybe ending up as a GH spinoff in the future. Suppose The Chew or The Revolution does very poorly... what if one gets canceled? Perhaps there would be a time slot that could fit a soap. Even a half hour?
Christine
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I think GH has a better chance of staying on the air because there is so much more space for the studio in CA than the space they rent or use in NYC. So many people out of work in NY now because of those cancelled soaps. Not just the actors, but scads of people who work behind the scenes every day have no jobs now. It's just senseless to lay off people. I can bet that the 1% in this country own these media stations so we know there is plenty of money in them -- it's just more obnoxious greed.
Diane
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I'm going to have to tune in, though I am not enamored of the all mob all the time on GH. But I'll give it a go. I just hope GH isn't canceled too soon.
christine
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Anita- thanks for posting that. I'm so glad for those actors!!! And YAY, T&B live on!!!
Kathleen
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And yes, Gabrielle was a bit too lusty. I wasn't that thrilled with that.
Christine
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Thanks for the link Anita. I had heard some rumors about that. So if John is going, what about Natalie? Will Jack and Sam go? Interesting. Yes, the end with Mitch was great! Loved it!
Christine
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http://abc.go.com/shows/general-hospital/OLTL-Stars-Join-GH?cid=facebook_oltlarrivals OLTL stars going to GH.. as the SAME characters... sounds interesting.. we'll see John, Blair, Todd and Starr on GH
Anita
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van der sloot plead guilty, huh? i guess karma finally caught up to the SOB. i hope he gets all he deserves in prison.
lisag
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I thought all the actors and actresses looked great, too!! Rebecca - I loved seeing Luna, too! I also love that these well-deserved actresses got an acting job and at least a little money in this hard-to-find-work business. The one thing about the story that bothered me was how they made Gabrielle possessive of Bo on that side as if she were alive and feeling lust in a physical form. But, oh well, I'm going too much into it. She should have been more like Megan, though, being ok with whatever the soul they were helping decided. Plus, souls do not have a gender -- only bodies do -- so I wish they had written that a bit differently because I don't think it was fair to the character of Gabrielle to be like that unless she was one of the beings in hell -- which she wasn't. Oh -- LOVED the two evil-robed ones coming for Mitch at the end and Mitch thinking he was going to be with God on his throne! Ha ha ha -- nope, Mitch. Your boss is satan.
Diane
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Christine - I wonder what it is about that date that he killed both women on a year apart. Yes, a Peruvian jail is JUST what he deserves -- and then some.
Diane
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Just saw this: Joran van der Sloot has pleaded guilty to the 2010 murder of a 21-year-old Peruvian woman he met at a Lima casino who was killed five years to the day of the unsolved disappearance in Aruba of an American teen in which he remains the main suspect.________________________ Good! Believe me a Peruvian jail won't be much fun.
Christine
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I loved yesterday's episode. I loved seeing Luna again.
rebecca
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Some people were complaining how old they looked, but I thought they look fantastic... and really would we have wanted new people playing them?
Christine
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According to TV Guide Magazine, SOAPnet departs cable and satellite systems on March 23 and will be replaced by Disney Junior March 23. As previously reported last year, Mickey Mouse made the decision to axe the soap channel in favor of a 24/7 preschool channel.
Mike
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This link is to a video about 9/11 covering an angle to the lower Manhattan evacuation efforts story I never really knew about. Quite interesting and uplifting. The text from the video "Tom Hanks narrates the epic story of the 9/11 boatlift that evacuated half a million people from the stricken piers and seawalls of Lower Manhattan." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDOrzF7B2Kg
Mike
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Watching 1/9 ep on imdb right now. Jessica Tuck and the Luna actress look amazing! So beautiful! And so does Gabrielle!!
Diane
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Kathleen -- Yeah, it's like hitting the lottery with old characters and faces on OL! I don't have a TV anymore at home (by choice) so I have to wait one more day and watch the ep's on imdb on my lunch hour. But I'm enjoying them so much!
Diane
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You can sign here to protest those racist math problems in Georgia: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/410/725/984/
Diane
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Not wanting to spoil yesterdays OL. but I loved Stacey's last lind to MItch!
Christine
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That is okay Puck.
Christine
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Christine -- sorry I didn't read down far enough. I'm so sorry about your uncle.
Puck
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Yesterday's episode was great, too! Wow, on all the old faces! I should have started watching several days ago, instead of just Friday.
Puck
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Thank you for the condolences on my uncle. It is greatly appreciated. __________________________________________________________ I watched OL on Friday and today (I was home ill) and what episodes! So many old faces, some newer..... fantastic.
Christine
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Diane- That was like a whole bunch of sweeps all in one episode on Friday!! Did you see today's?? It was nice to see those faces from the past!!
Kathleen
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Christine - your uncle sounds really neat. I hope your fond memories of him help you through this tough period.
LisaG
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Actually, it doesn't surprise me that it's in Georgia. Many teachers are REMARKABLY ignorant here, especially the older ones who have been here forever. When we owned a computer store in Dogbreath, GA, an older black woman teacher came in, wanting me to help her research something on the Internet (this was in the early days of the 'net, and not everyone understood how to do it). She wanted to prove that black people were the majority in the USA, and such were entitled to have most of the jobs and positions of power. This was a woman who had lived all her life in that town (city pop. 60% black and county pop. 75% black). She didn't believe me when I pulled up the census and showed her blacks comprised about 12% of the US population -- she knew only what she had lived and seen -- a place where blacks were everywhere. She didn't understand that there are some parts of this nation that have ZERO black people! Can you imagine what she might have taught her students? -- through her general attitude and demeanor, what errors she may have passed on? And oh, BTW, she was a history teacher.
Puck
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Watched Friday's OLTL. WOW. So many people getting shot at the same time made my head spin but I still enjoyed so much drama. Nice how Star sung her prayer at the end in the hospital chapel.
Diane
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If these racist teachers were females, I would like to see how they would feel if the questions were used to denigrate women such as "If Paul raped two women on Saturday, and then raped three more on Sunday....." Then maybe they'd get it!
Diane
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Thank you for the link, Mike. I am so grateful this issue got to the public. That alone should scare those racists a bit.
Diane
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I meant --- home COUNTY (not country)
Diane
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Lisa - Thanks. There are people actually in my home country who already have reported Juan to INS, ICE and Homeland inSecurity to no avail. But they are trying again since Juan admitted on the stand that he obtained drivers licenses from states he did not reside in. The county I lived in is a nutty place and it getting nuttier by the year. It's the most frustrating place I ever lived in trying to get anything done so I think Juan would have been deported by now if he lived anywhere else.
Diane
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Christine - I'm sorry I missed your post. I'm so sorry about your uncle passing on, too. He does sound like he was an outstanding human being.
Diane
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Those math questions are beyond outrageous and would have been so 50 years ago in most areas of the country, as schools are to "lead the way" in making progress. Christine, sorry for your loss. Sounds like he was a great man and lived a life he was proud of.
Janet
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Diane - I still think you should call INS about that Juan guy...he's here in the US illegally and is basically being a criminal by fabricating that whole story about your aunt leaving her place to him. He doesn't deserve to live here if he's going to break the law. JMHO! ------ And no offense intended to the people of Georgia...I only meant the bone headed teachers that created those insulting questions. And yeah, imagine if you're a black kid in that class and you saw those questions?! Unreal.
LisaG
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Opps. Dreaded typo. lacks = blacks
Mike
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Diane, here's a link to the yahoo article. It has a video news report. Yes, there are/were lacks in that class. http://news.yahoo.com/frederick-got-two-beatings-per-day-parents-outraged-214539350.html
Mike
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Mike - I also wish that if cases like yours (and mine) are thrown out or denied by the judge, that we should be reimbursed our legal fees by the people or person who brought up this money-wasting and time-wasting matter. My lawyer tried to get the judge to have Juan's half of the money pay for my very high legal bills, but the judge didn't go for it. Juan cost me so much money by FABRICATING his story that I think that money should have come out of his half, and not mine.
Diane
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Mike -- What a horribly sad story. Burns me up that these idiots (what's it to them anyway???) did this to your father and gave him one ounce of grief at the end of his life. And it's so horrible in this country that people like you (and me) get stuck with such high legal bills to defend ourselves when we did nothing wrong and these senseless motions get thrown out. Those people have very very bad karma. I hope it comes soon for them.
Diane
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OH MY GOD, LISA, I am just appalled by those math problems. Are there any black students in these classes? If I were black and my student were in that class, I would raise the roof BIG TIME about this racist CRAP. Who the hell wrote that book? Talking about inept people, besides teachers, working in schools, I was so shocked to read a couple weeks ago about a 7 year-old boy who choked to death in the cafeteria while several kitchen workers watched helplessly not knowing the Himelick maneuver!!!! How the hell can you have ANYONE working around children and not know how to help them if they are choking??!!! Especially where you serve them food! That child did not have to die. It was so sickening to me.
Diane
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Rough weekend here. My uncle by marriage passed away this morning (late Saturday night with time change) in the Dominican Republic. He was 85 and was VERY ill and pretty much the family gathered to be with him in his final moments. IMy mom flew down there early last week. He had been married to my aunt for over 50 years til her death. What a character he was. Not perfect by any means. He was the secretary of the armed forces in the 80s. The president of the country visited him in the hospital, he made local news. He even consdiered a run for their presidnecy before he took ill. An era is really over for my family. Its like I told my dad, he had a good long life, he lived it to the fullest, we wish people never had to die, but it sadly happens. I will hold onto my fond memories of my many vacations there and how well he treated me. Time is really marching on.
Christine
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hey, hey! Georgian here! But yeah, when the purpose of education is pass a standardized test, then you're never going to keep the best and brightest teachers in your schools. You're going to be stuck with dumb bunnies like this................................. But then again, it's hard to know the full truth. I find it hard to believe that a set of teachers smart enough to try to do cross-curriculum lessons wouldn't have devised a test that, while having "slave" questions, might also have "master" questions. In short, while the entire lesson might have been boneheaded, I can easily imagine that the news reported only the offensive questions out of context. Would we have been okay if the following question was on the test: "If four plantations consisting of 50 slaves each free their slaves after the Emancipation Proclamation, how many slaves have been set free?"
Puck
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Nevermind Lisa, I searched it on Yahoo.com. SHould have thought of that. Lots of hits on it.
Mike
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Lisa, wow on that Georgia article. Can you post the link?
Mike
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LisaG, $276 a month for the association?!?!? Heck, in 2004 when I moved out of my old 2nd floor apt (which I was in since 1982) the rent was $335 a month! But yeah, I see you detail what that goes towards, but still...wow.
Mike
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Diane. No, they did not get away with it. When they filed suit, my dad was having the beginnings of pain that ultimately was diagnosed to be the cancer that took him in late-1994. Through all the mystery of the doctors visits and then the cancer treatments, he was very upbeat and the ONLY thing that bothered him and got him down was this silly lawsuit (which I handled with his lawyer).______ After he passed, a judge through the lawsuit out, but I had to then pay lawyers fees upwards of $6,000 (if I recall correctly), which ate up most of the money left after selling his place (which still had a large mortgage). _______ It always irked me that these idiots who brought the suit forced up to ring up a bill that was four times what us three kids each eventually got ($1700) after paying off all the bills and sold the house three years later. ______ While it was for sale, I rented it out year-round and even wrote a letter to the lake association mentioning the three or four that had sued telling them to "go ahead and sue me, I dare you". They didn't. And I didn't pay any association dues those last hree years either. Refused to.____ Oh, I also recall that THEIR excuse for renting out their places in the fall (none were winterized for living) was they were grandfathered in before the "no commercial" clause was put into the lake association. As if renting full time to a 2nd floor tenant while the owner lived below was considered "commercial"? Really? If so, just about every piece of property in this country could be considered commercial.That's why the judge threw it out, but we stil lhad the lawyers bills. Didn't want to counter-sue for that amount, I wanted to wash my hands of it and walk away.
Mike
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Here's a link to a nice long article in today's NY Post about the demise of New York City's once thriving soap opera business. http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/tv/nyc_soap_bubble_bursts_77jXTowUItYBOhVbhCN41M
Mike
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I read this Yahoo article and couldn't believe my eyes...are people...TEACHERS(!)...in Georgia really this stupid??? ----- Outrageous questions on math homework: ----- Third graders in in Gwinnett County, Ga., were given math homework Wednesday that asked questions about slavery and beatings. ----- Christopher Braxton told ABC News affiliate WSB-TV in Atlanta that he couldn't believe the assignment his 8-year-old son brought home from of Beaver Ridge Elementary school in Norcross. ----- "It kind of blew me away," Braxton said. "Do you see what I see? Do you really see what I see? He's not answering this question." ----- The question read, "Each tree had 56 oranges. If eight slaves pick them equally, then how much would each slave pick?" ----- Another math problem read, "If Frederick got two beatings per day, how many beatings did he get in one week?" ----- Another question asked how many baskets of cotton Frederick filled. ----- "I was furious at that point," Braxton said. ----- "This outrages me because it just lets me know that there's still racists," said Stephanie Jones, whose child is a student at the school. ----- "Something like that shouldn't be imbedded into a kid of the third, fourth, fifth, any grade," parent Terrance Barnett told WSB-TV. "I'm having to explain to my 8-year-old why slavery or slaves or beatings are in a math problem. That hurts." ----- "In this one, the teachers were trying to do a cross-curricular activity," Gwinnett County school district spokeswoman Sloan Roach said. ----- Roach said the teachers were attempting to incorporate social studies into math problems. ----- "We understand that there are concerns about these questions, and we agree that these questions were not appropriate," she said.
LisaG
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Then she put this on the FB page as "reminder"______________________________ The association page was created for the betterment of the community; to provide the residents a link to share information and to strengthen a bond of friendship. Postings are to be informative of upcoming events, organize social events, and share positive ideas and statements. Any negative postings of a disrespectful, harmful, derogatory, or threatening nature will be removed. Any person who continues to use this site as an avenue for personal attacks or any of the above will be blocked from future postings. We encourage a free exchange of information and sharing of ideas in order to work cooperatively to build a safer and better neighborhood. It is our intent to provide the residents an easy and convenient way to communicate constructively with each other,
Christine
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Lisa, they sy our fees have gone up due to foreclosures in the area. When we moved in we paid $75. There are townhouses in our subdivision but they take care of their properties. So what do they do? I don't know. DH said watch out she might be skimming from the top. I knew we had dues when I moved in, but I'm still trying to figure out what they do. AFter muchh hemming and hawing how the budget issue doesn't belong on FB (someone else brought it up too) she agreed to post a link to it.
Christine
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Mike - Goodness gracious! That association sued your father with all that other stuff going on with people do more renting than he was attempting to do??? They didn't get away with it, did they?
Diane
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Christine -- yeah, is there a detailed sheet on just what that $183 a month is for??? And she it was just raised last year and she claims it wasn't raised in years? Does this woman drink or do coke? She sounds like others I've known who have a substance abuse problem. She COULD be in the position to actually STEAL money like the bldg mgrs we have at this apt. complex are did and are doing. Also, that french woman I told you about was jobless for so long and she took up supposed "fund raising" for one of the rescues to help a dog get a needed surgery. She was actually taking half of the money for herself! She wouldn't let anyone see the books and then when the rescue head demanded it, she got mad and verbally abusive and left. When they got into the acct, they found she had made several withdrawals -- all for herself. Now -- get this -- she's on a local town board in her town. I hope they've been watching the case. I'm a suspicious person, but since she said the amt hasn't gone up in years and it went up $23 last year.......could she be finding a way to pocket that $23 from each homeowner and keeping the $150 on the books?
Diane
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Christine -- If that disgruntled treasurer says she doesn't serve you, how does she justify charging you? Sounds like a difficult personality person -- feels SO sorry for herself and is very self-absorbed. A spoiled brat comes to mind. We had a woman from France here who was a former bronze medal Olympic winner decades ago. She was HORRIBLE! Me me me me -- poor her! And she bilked money off of everyone (including me) in the rescue community. And then proceded to heap the verbal abuse on you -- saying SHE was the victim. Treasurer sounds like this sort and is only the position because she thinks she deserves it. She should be ousted. Clearly a very unhappy person.
Diane
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Janet - Yeah, my father was the president of his fan club when my father was a late teen or early 20-something. It may have been just a NY chapter or something, I'm not sure. I think that was the early 1940's.
Diane
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Christine - then what the heck do they use all that money for?! I currently pay $276 a month...a little more than others because I have a garage...that pays for garbage removal, recycling removal, maintenance of all the grounds (mowing, pruning, leaf removal), exterior maintenance of all the townhomes (we just had all the buildings re-roofed and vinyl sided a couple of years ago (it really needed it). The fees also go to pay for the pool maintenance (though I never use it any more), road maintenance including snow removal. So I guess we get a lot for our money, but the management co isn't very responsive and has hired some questionable contractors...the tree removal company who tried to not do their job recently is a good example. I also think they're rather wasteful in some things like too many mailings and I also think they don't enforce the association rules enough...more people need to buckle down and follow them or be fined. Regarding your budget...they should be mailing (or emailing) it to ALL residents...you should NOT have to attend a meeting to get a copy. I mean, what if you own a place, but rent it out and you live out of state? They should be freely sharing that information with you and it should show a breakdown of all income, expenses and should really give you at least a 2 year listing of them...last and current/new year. Just tell them to mail you one.
LisaG
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We pay $183 a year and we have ALOT of homes. And she insisted fees hadn't gone up in years, but I looked back and I paid $150 last year._____________________ Mike, this is an elected position. ______________________ Lisa, they don't plant flowers or anything. We are single family homes and clean our own areas, mow our own lawns etc... we have 3 common areas, 2 ponds and a park. The city plows our streets.....
Christine
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we don't have "loonies" in our association...it's the management company that sucks. Christine - just for your comparison/consideration, our board never puts up any kind of holiday decoration...anything like that is up to the individual townhouse owner. personally, i prefer it that way, so they aren't wasting money on something that only some (ok most) of the residents celebrate. they DO spend money on planting flowers for spring/summer/fall...very pretty and i don't mind that...makes the place look nice. considering how tight everyone's budgets are, including our association, i'm all for no holiday decorations...our common fees are also going up next year, but that's because we got slammed with big and unexpected bills for the snow cleanup & repairs from last winter, the Halloween storm and hurricane Irene, etc.
lisag
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Christine, curiously, how many homes in the association? AT 30$ more a pop, just wondering how much they are raking in and of course, what the fees go towards. Anyway, it certainly sounds like you descibed it right (hornet's nest). Maybe if y9ou are lucky the malcontent will quit? Is this treasurer post an elected position by the association members? I recall how the lake association where my father last resided was a bunch of idiots that ended up suing my dad while other suing members were virtually guilty of the same thing. (They said my dad violated the "no commercial" policy when he rented out his second floor to a tenant while others on the other side of the lake (who sued my dad) often rented out their entire place in the fall before they closed up their place for the winter. Neighborhood associations sure seem to be full of loonies some times. Didn't Lisa post once about loonies in/running her association?
Mike
-

The latest People has a section on OL.
Christine
-

Well now, DH and I apparently make her sick and should be ashamed of ourselves... My original comment "wow association fees went up and we didn't get any holiday decorations" She had the audicity to say she doesn't serve us. Still trying to figure out what she is doing on the board then?? And I am nice!
Christine
-

Did I do anything wrong? Every subdivion around here puts up at least a measely wreat at their entrances... so when I see nothing going up and my bill is nearly double of what it used to be.... what is wrong with asking? And if this board member hates being on the board so much and is all "woe is me", perhaps she should leave? And if she doesn't like "Christian" holidays... maybe they don't want us to put up lights for the holidays or Easter?
Christine
-

Janet, yeah. A while back Disney announced they were axing SoapNet it in favor of their new Disney Jr.
Mike
-

Okay ladies and guy... I started a hornet's next on FB with our association. Back in early Dec. Someone posted on their page if anyone was going to put up some holiday decorations at our front enterance. No one responded (our board memebers started the page). So I get my association yearly bill that went up $30 and posted about what a high bill (we are single family homes, they don't do very much) and how we had no decorations. I ended up getting blasted from the treasurer as to how there is money in the budget and if I would attend meetings (they are on nights I work) I would get to see the budget and how she has put them up in the past (later she said we never have decorations) out of her own wallet. When I volunteered to round up people for next year to use extra decorations we have laying around, she said why should she bother with a Christian holiday? I told her I wasn't suggesting a Nativity scene, but maybe a wreath, some lights?? I also called her out on how someone had asked about them and no one responded. She said she is too busy, hates being on the board... we should feel sorry for her etc... and we can decorate anytime we want. I told her if I would have put up some holiday decorations, I could see myself getting called out be the board about not getting permission. Needless to say, she compared me to people who have made threats against board members. A few people came to my defense.....
Christine
-

soap net is going off the air? Hadn't heard. Too bad. . . . for a couple of months we've been griping that we haven't had enough snow (we need the water from lakes and rivers and reservoirs in the summer). Woke up to 3-4 inches of the white stuff and everybody is complaining. I'll save my errands until the afternoon when the roads should be clear.
Janet
-

Yeah, I'm really kicking myself for forgetting about the OLTL marathon. I really wanted to see the eps they aired before I started watching in 1990. Hopefully, maybe they will re-air the all before SoapNet goes off the air in February. Can't see any reason they won't for OLTL and AMC. Oh, and I go back to work Monday! Boring, but still yipee!
Mike
-

Yes, thank you to whomever posted about the New Year's Day marathon! I haven't watched them all yet, but I did watch Megan's death episode....sobbed just as much (if not more!) than when it originally aired. When Jake carried her to the window to see the tree...:-(....
Kathleen
-

Just stopping by to say thanks to whomever posted about the OLTL marathon on New Year's day. Watched every one of them. Was so exausted from my visit to my granddaughters that I needed a day in bed. And I have to admit my crush on TK was renewed after seeing the Brown Penny episode. Why oh why can't this man get real work. I am going to write Nathan and tell him to give TK a guest spot on Castle this season. That would be awesome.
rebecca
-

cw gave great updates. She can type so fast. Lisa, glad your mom is doing OK. Diane, your dad was pres. of Bing's fan club? I just don't see him as having the depth and humanity that Stewart brought to the part. Sometimes I'll see a film and think of several actors who could have done the part well, but there's no question on this for me. And originally the film didn't do too well as it was perceived as too "dark." Stewart also testified before Congress re Ted Turner colorizing black and white movies. And had a distinguished military career.
Janet
-

It's been my pleasure and my honor, ladies and gentlemen. OK, we keep the name. Works for me. I can't be sure when I took over, but it's close to 18 years. That's scary, so I'll stop writing about it.
Cat
-

Hi Kathleen! So nice to see you! I also had not watched in awhile and have been tuning in on my PC during my lunch hour to watch it on imdb. JANET - Ack, so glad it didn't work out with Crosby playing that part. Jimmy Stewart owned that part in It's a Wonderful Life. I can't picture anyone else doing as well. I detest Bing Crosby with a passion since I learned how he used to beat his sons whenever he felt like it. One or two of them ended up committing suicide as adults because they could not get over that abuse. Crosby was a coward. My father was head of his fan club, but I never got a good vibe from BC so my intuition was working. LISA - Thank goodness the surgery is over for your mom! I'll bet she really wanted it to be all done with. I hope she continues to do well.
Diane
-

according to Wikipedia, Bing Crosby was the director's first choice for It's a Wonderful Life. I can't picture it. Jimmy Stewart was perfect. And Donna Reed was cast after about 5 other actresses turned down the part. i thought she was great, too.
Janet
-

Lisa, how nice of them... that would scare the you know what out of me too!________________________________ kmp, I saw the OL updates and plan on watching it tonite on soapnet. I am already crying just thinking about it.
Christine
-

Well, mom-ster's surgery is over...whole thing took about 20 minutes, but we had to wait an additional 2 HOURS (!) past her appt time...that did NOT help with her nerves and stress. Too bad I didn't bring a flask of scotch with me to help!
LisaG
-

I watched today's episode of OLTL...WOW! What an heart-wrenching episode!
kmp
-

I agree on Van Sloot, he is a psycho. The guy should have been locked up years ago. What a shame 2 young women are dead because of him, I only hope there are no more.
Christine
-

When I came on here it was hosted by Ian. Cat, I agree, thank you for maintaining this wonderful site for all of us wonderful people! I remember the live updates. I would be at work refreshing the site, throwing up my arms at the events unfolding in joy, shock or disgust! _________________ Kathleen, I don't think Carlo is slated to appear, but Meghan is, in heaven. I wonder how they will explain her aging? I miss the show already! *sob*
Christine
-

Remember when cw used to give live updates? And sometimes Puck would fill in when she couldn't? That would hold those of us who couldn't view the show live over until nighttime!!
Kathleen
-

It's so nice to see all the familiar names :-) I'm all for keeping the identity too...like a few have said, it's what brought us together so many years ago!
Kathleen
-

Hi!!! Had to drop in, it's been a LONG time!! I stopped watching OLTL a few years ago (life just got busy, LOL), but have picked it up in the last few weeks. I'm SO SAD to see it end :-(. I'm really enjoying the return of all the villains. Do you think there's any chance we could see Carlo Hesser??
Kathleen
-

Mike: Van Sloot cannot utter the truth. He is a total psychopath, IMO. He is on trial? What a laundry list of crimes. I hope they put him away. Imagine, trying to extort money from your victims (as in revealing where Natalie Holloway's body was) and that was bungled by the FBI, as far as I can tell.
Janet
-

Cat would know for certain, but I believe Cat's rendition of this GB commenced in the middle six-months of 1996. I know I first found Ian's original version in either late 1994 or sometime in 1995. Anyone recall if anyone on the All My Chidren side create a new GB for them when Ian dropped both his guestbooks?
Mike
-

And, of course no name change here, other than perhaps a clever past tense reflection to further honor this great show (most of the time) and it's legacy.
Mike
-

ANyone else watching this Vander Sloot douchebag's trial on HLN right now? My god.
Mike
-

And a very grateful THANK YOU to Cat for hosting and maintaining this GB for so many years. How long has it been now? 16 or 17?
Diane
-

And our GB should always be OL... it brought us here, I've been on this site for nearly 18 years... you ladies (and guy) have been my friends all this time and OL brought us together. Lets not change it!
Christine
-

Just watched today's OL... wow... what I liked.... Todd grabbing Sam and runnung out of the room to save him, go Todd!... Vicki and Clint holding hands and saying they loved each other, Ford (Good Lord yes!) coming in to save Jessica and her willing to sacrifice herself for Natalie. I had tears in my eyes and regret in my heart that this show is almost over! I will never watch ABC's shows in the daytime. I want my OL, I want AMC.... and as we know I'm sure GH will be gone soon... I want GH.
Christine
-

I'm for keeping it, too! It's our identity.
Puck
-

Christine - good description of it all. You are right -- escapism is what is wanted in the middle of the day for stay-at-home women! I used to watch OLTL on my lunch hour and when my lunch hour time changed, I would never watch anything else in its place because I wanted drama and romance with characters I knew. CAT - I think keeping the name might be a good idea because that was what brought us all together. What do your or others think? I hope no one else watches those new shows ABC puts on either in the formerly-soap time slots. They deserve to lose viewership big time.
Diane
-

Diane = ICAM on the show. I think it's the best it's ever been. I will never watch either show ABC puts on, and won't watch other soaps. I"m savoring the remaining shows. and dreading the final one. It really is going to be a loss. What do we do about the guestbook? Keep the name? Change it?
Cat
-

Diana, you are not the only one feeling that way. I am of the viewpoint, if I want self improvement, I can seek it. There are enough of these shows out there. And many women who don't work and are at home don't want to be told, you need to do this and that, they want escapism. For many women (and at one time this was me), when the kids are napping or at school, it is my turn to watch tv. I don't want to hear that I can create a gourmet dish for my family with ingredients I don't have or I need to read such and such book... I want an hour of escape and juicy fun. Again, self improvement is fine, but during the days that I am home, if I am not watching OL, I watch trashy court shows. My former manager, now a library director, when battling breast cancer, would watch escapism shows. I stopped watching Oprah for the most part becuase I was tired of being told how I had to dress, eat and behave. I want cute men, juicy murder plots, switched babies!
Christine
-

Watching a very recent OLTL ep, and is at its BEST. The Mitch Lawrence stuff and Troy stuff is as creepy as ever. ABC is despicable cancelling a show like this. I don't get it. Cancelling a very popular show for the cr*p they put on it its place? Has the media LOST ALL their common sense?
Diane
-

It was an awesome morning on Phoebe's nest today, Mike. Rose was still in the nest but did a lot of wingersizing and did some levitating above the nest a few inches. Bob fledged on 1/2 -- and what do you know -- he came back this morning to be with Rose! They cuddled together and everything and he has even gained some of the green color. So he hogged the nest and Rose decided she'd better fledge so up and up she went! Bob looked straight up to watch her and then, after a good rest, zipped off the nest like an old pro. And just one month ago, they were still incubating in a teeny tiny little egg.
Diane
-

Wow, what a story, LISA. That poor woman -- husband dying on Christmas day and these two despicable beings using that to take advantage of violently entering her home. I'm also against guns, but sometimes......I don't know. It's the only thing that saved her life and that of her baby. I like the 911 responder's answer to her ques too, whether she should shoot the intruder or not. It was like telling her -- Legally, I can't tell you that but you know what you need to do.
Diane
-

In addition to OL, I watch Walking Dead.
christine
-

LOVE IT!!! Yep, recognize #10, and I watch #2 as well, but that's about it. I guess "Mad Men" didn't make the cut because it didn't air a single new episode in all of 2011. I have to disagree with one missing show -- "Person of Interest" is one of the best new shows on TV.
Puck
-

Here's one writers list of the ten best shows on television PERIOD for 2011. And you'll never guess what he has at #10...one hint, it's the ONLY show I know for a fact that we've all watched. ;-) http://www.courierpress.com/news/2012/jan/03/breaking-bad-community-among-years-top-tv-series/
Mike
-

That Okla/911 story pretty much leaves me at a loss for words. Totally amazing and I cannot imagine being in her shoes especially considering her husband's recent passing, on Christmas no less.
Mike
-

I saw that story on the news. Can't say I blame her. I would have done the same... I like how she asked if she could shoot him, she did not treat this lightly. Very brave of her.
Christine
-

I'm not an advocate of guns, but in this case, more power to this woman! ...------... Okla. Woman Shoots, Kills Intruder: 911 Operators Say It's OK to Shoot - By KEVIN DOLAK and RYAN OWENS | Good Morning America – 16 hrs ago ...------... A young Oklahoma mother shot and killed an intruder to protect her 3-month-old baby on New Year's Eve, less than a week after the baby's father died of cancer. ...------... Sarah McKinley says that a week earlier a man named Justin Martin dropped by on the day of her husband's funeral, claiming that he was a neighbor who wanted to say hello. The 18-year-old Oklahoma City area woman did not let him into her home that day. ...------... On New Year's Eve Martin returned with another man, Dustin Stewart, and this time was armed with a 12-inch hunting knife. The two soon began trying to break into McKinley's home. ...------... As one of the men was going from door to door outside her home trying to gain entry, McKinley called 911 and grabbed her 12-gauge shotgun. ...------... McKinley told ABC News Oklahoma City affiliate KOCO that she quickly got her 12 gauge, went into her bedroom and got a pistol, put the bottle in the baby's mouth and called 911. ...------... "I've got two guns in my hand -- is it okay to shoot him if he comes in this door?" the young mother asked the 911 dispatcher. "I'm here by myself with my infant baby, can I please get a dispatcher out here immediately?" ...------... The 911 dispatcher confirmed with McKinley that the doors to her home were locked as she asked again if it was okay to shoot the intruder if he were to come through her door. ...------... "I can't tell you that you can do that but you do what you have to do to protect your baby," the dispatcher told her. McKinley was on the phone with 911 for a total of 21 minutes. ...------... When Martin kicked in the door and came after her with the knife, the teen mom shot and killed the 24-year-old. Police are calling the shooting justified. ...------... "You're allowed to shoot an unauthorized person that is in your home. The law provides you the remedy, and sanctions the use of deadly force," Det. Dan Huff of the Blanchard police said. ...------... Stewart soon turned himself in to police. ...------... McKinley said that she was at home alone with her newborn that night because her husband just died of cancer on Christmas Day. ...------... "I wouldn't have done it, but it was my son," McKinley told ABC News Oklahoma City affiliate KOCO. "It's not an easy decision to make, but it was either going to be him or my son. And it wasn't going to be my son. There's nothing more dangerous than a woman with a child."
LisaG
-

well, at least 2 of the scarier Republican candidates are gone...Bachman and Cain. Dodged those bullets!
LisaG
-

Listening to the idiot politicians who are now 'ruling' this country and listening to the idiot decisions they are making while listening to the radio in my car this morning made me say aloud "These people should be in playpens -- not in office of anything!"
Diane
-

Oh Puck!
Christine
-

Oy Puck. What a mess that sounds like.
Diane
-

Speaking of giving politics back to the people -- went to the city council meeting yesterday, because we heard rumors that several employees of over 30 years' service, including the volunteer fire chief who got our ISO rating dropped from a 9 to a 5. Sure enough, despite raucous cries from the galley, and despite two upstanding councilmen arguing vociferously, the new mayor and his two newly elected cronies got rid of them. Oh, and they had "replacements" already on their lips, who were voted in. The guy who is now the new police chief AND fire chief used to be the fire chief, and did such a horrible job that he was fired -- equipment missing, drinking in the station, and an ISO rating that was about to drop to 10 (which is unheard of -- it's a punishment rating, but it means homeowner's insurance rates skyrocket). I hope to high heaven a recall election is on the way!
Puck
-

this is the petition site... http://democracyisforpeople.org/
LisaG
-

For those of you who are interested in giving politics back to the people, you may want to read this article and sign the petitions.... http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/bernie_sanders_explains_why_congress_fears_citizens_united_20111216/
LisaG
-

it's been one of those days.
Janet
-

Puck - I wonder, too, if the love between Patrick and Lisa could have been sustained as strong as it was if they had children. Children can put stress on a relationship sometimes. I also know so many people whose death resulted fro the radiation or chemo and not from the cancer. I lost my good friend John a few years ago because the chemo he took many years earlier finally took his life even though there was no more cancer in his body. My good friend Mickey who is a loving father of two children was found to have intestinal lymphoma, which they caught early and removed. But they insisted he needed the very strong stuff so the poor guy has been sick as a dog for the past few months. He looks just horrible -- and he looked great before. My Chinese doctor teacher used to throw up her hands and say "If it make you sick, how can it be good for you?"
Diane
-

Sometimes, children kill love between people! I always thought their love was so potent and powerful BECAUSE they did not have children. .................................................... I agree about cancer. When my G-pa was battling lung cancer, they told him it was a race -- kill the cancer before the chemo killed him. He lost So did my FIL, but he had a very aggressive soft tissue sarcoma, so more "gentle" methods were out of the question. Still, two experiences with cancer, and in both cases, I (we) was left wondering whether it was worth it, when we should have stopped (heck, when we should have started!), whether there wasn't some other alternative, etc.
Puck
-

DIL is 8 months along and they plan to let nature take its course and try for a normal delivery. Baby boy is at least 4.5 pounds, so all of this is very encouraging! Thanks for asking, Diane.
Janet
-

I read something so interesting last year about the so-called "battle or war on cancer". I found it so enlightening. It said that perhaps we are thinking wrongly about the whole thing. Cancer cells are not enemies -- they are OUR cells and they belong to us. They have gotten a code messed up due to toxins, radiation, stress or whatever and the body actually needs help (not poison) to correct this error. It was saying they studied a few people who chose not to think of their cancer as an invader but as a part of themselves that needed to be thought of in a loving way because our cells were 'sick' and the body needed our attention more than ever. They did no chemo and only used non-toxic methods to clean out their bodies and only put the purest ingredients into their bodies. They did amazingly well. It was not only the non-toxic methods they used, but their THOUGHTS which helped their conditions. I think they may be on to something here because chemo is a vile poison that also destroys the healthy body cells and not just the cancer cells. Like my Chinese MD teacher told us as acupuncture school, "Chemo kills healthy cells, too. Cannot kill cancer without killing patient!" and on that word, she'd slam her hand hard down onto the desk. So I think in the future there will be no more toxic ways of dealing with cancer. I have even heard that its possible sound waves may be used to break up cancer cells in the body. There are so many possibilities.
Diane
-

I think Patrick and Lisa would have made wonderful parents, too. You could just feel the love between the two of them. Janet - How is DIL? My co-worker is still carrying her child and is thrilled that last week she finally entered her pregnancy in the "late term" stage. It's her 4th pregnancy, and she is so happy to finally be able to suffer from swollen ankles, etc. and to have a full-term baby.
Diane
-

I think Swayze and his wife also were very disappointed that they were never able to have children. They seemed like one of the truly devoted show biz marriages. I think she was a dancer, too.
Janet
-

I was just looking up someone on IMDB and his links lead me to Simon MacCorkindale's page...how sad, he passed away in October of last year at age 58. I had such a crush on him in the show "Counterstrike". RIP, Simon.
LisaG
-

Lisa Niemi Swayze has written a memoir called 'Worth Fighting For' which chronicles Patrick's fight with his cancer. This article on it contains a nice photo gallery included in the book. I know several here were fans of Patrick and admired him for how he fought his illness. http://www.usatoday.com/life/books/news/story/2012-01-03/interview-with-lisa-niemi-swayze/52341758/1
Mike
-

Janet - I have one of those things, too, as part of a flashlight. I guess we could test it in a junk yard! ;) I hit a bonanza when I went back to CVS for batteries. I found several more of the mini LED light up snowmen and also 2 LED light up Christmas trees...they all change color when plugged into the USB port on the laptop. So I've already done some Christmas stocking stuffer shopping for this year! :)
LisaG
-

I have a little tool that's supposed to help you break a window and cut a seat belt. But how do I know if it really works? These people on the scene acted so quickly and decisively and knew what to do and how to do it. I am still amazed that 3 children were saved. And, as you can see by the snowy banks, that river is cold.
Janet
-

What a way to start the new year - - -an incredible rescue, again less than 20 miles from me . . . . . God bless all those who stopped to help. http://news.hjnews.com/news/article_2a3df430-34d4-11e1-b858-001871e3ce6c.html Makes me proud to live in Logan. That's where this rescue happened, too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IAKaQqsjFc
Janet
-

oooooh, Brown Penny . . . . . sigh.
Janet
-

>>"Watching Soapnet's OL marathon"<< Dagnabbitt! I forgot about it! I was looking forward to seeing episodes that aired before I started watching. DRATS! Hopefully they will show up on YouTube.
Mike
-

Watching Soapnet's OL marathon.... Brown Penny!!!
christine
-

Happy New Year to all my GB friends and their families!
Christine
-

Christine: I think you'll like The Help.
Janet
-

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Here's to a year of great health, happiness and prosperity for everyone...after the last year we all deserve it!
LisaG
-

I usually get suckered into the half priced candy. I just can't resist it. I also buy greeting cards for the next year. _________________________ Janet, I haven't read The Help, but plan on it after this.
Christine
-

Mike - yeah, I really had to go slowly and dig into the shelves to see all the stuff. The little LED snowman had fallen on the floor...I'm so glad I found him! :) One woman went nuts with all the kids games and stuff that were on sale.
LisaG
-

Lisa, I always like to peruse the half-price etc Christmas stuff at CVS too...did so this morning but nothing caught my eye.
Mike
-

Janet - thanks for the warning about War Horse...I think I'll skip it. My mom saw the play in NYC, which she said was excellent, but also probably easier to handle since the horses were life sized puppets. I hate watching stuff that shows animal suffering...the scene where the army guys shot Two Socks in "Dances With Wolves" was disturbing and even though I told myself it was a movie and not real, it was heartbreaking. ----------- On a lighter note, I was at CVS looking through all the half price Christmas stuff and got some great deals, including this small LED color changing snowman that plugs into the computer USB port. He's got a long cord, so I can put him just about anywhere nearby...he's only about 4 inches high, but he's so CUTE with a clear beaded body and a little blue and white striped hat and scarf. The colors change between white, green, blue and red...and he was only $2.50! :)
LisaG
-

Mike: glad you are still with us to enjoy 2012!
Janet
-

12/31/2011, 16:54 ET - Wishing a slightly early Happy New Year to everyone! And good riddance to 2011! I am extremely glad to see you go and will embrace 2012 with open arms...it's gotta be better than 2011, even if Planet Earth comes to an explosive and violent end next December 21st! ;-)
Mike
-

Christine: exactly. My grandfather was gassed in France and had permanent lung damage. And horses - how terribly we've treated them. I'm a softie. Now, the Help, I loved the book and look forward to seeing the movie.
Janet
-

WWI was very brutal, I think people don't think of it as being that... throw in a horse and I'm a mess. I did watch "The Help" the other day. Highly recommended! I was aghast that people actually would build outdoor bathrooms for The Help (African Americans)... of course this was Mississippi. But it had an uplifting message in the end.
Christine
-

We didn't really have a choice - -- I knew it would be a tough movie to watch, and we both nearly veered into Mission Impossible instead. But a friend bought us tickets, said we needed to see it . . . . several times I just shielded my eyes until a scene was over. Realistic depiction of war - - - I suppose I'd rather escape at the movies, most of the time.
Janet
-

Lisa, no big surprise. The press has been reporting that for months and they kept denying it. ___________________________________ Janet, I told DH I will NOT see that movie as I know I will cry. You have confirmed that.
Christine
-

If you are an animal lover, I wouldn't recommend War Horse. I was far too tenderhearted for that movie.
Janet
-

gee, what a shocker....NOT! ----------------- APNewsBreak: Russell Brand, Katy Perry to divorce ------------- LOS ANGELES (AP) — British actor-comedian Russell Brand is divorcing "California Gurls" songstress Katy Perry after 14 months of what had appeared to be one of Hollywood's happier marriages. ----------------------- "Sadly, Katy and I are ending our marriage," Brand said in a statement to The Associated Press on Friday. "I'll always adore her and I know we'll remain friends." ------------------------ Brand, 36, offered no other details, but in papers filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court, he cited irreconcilable differences.
lisag
-

Thanks for the tip, Lisa. I will try that next time.
Diane
-

Well OL had a prison break and it looks like 3 very important people broke out. I have read that it is Cole, Mitch and LIndsey, but they didn't show them at the end of todays episode. Oh the waiting!
Christine
-

Lisa! Ow!!!! ________________________________ Getting ready to watch OL. I am so bummed. I can't remember a time I didn't watch a soap. My mom used to watch telenovelas when I was little, and then started with the ABC soaps. I used to love Ryan's Hope. This lead me to watch AMC, OL and GH. Not that my mom didn't watch them, but I started to pay more attention.
Christine
-

Diane - try just reloading/refreshing the page (pf9 or control + R)...it may ask if you want to resend the info, just reply yes.
LisaG
-

Do you guys think this problem is my slow connection speed --- When I post to the GB from home and hit "send" (or whatever), I get an error msg and it says to try again. If I try again, I see a double post on the GB. For other things, I'll order something and hit the last button to place the order and get an error page. In those cases, though, the payment did not go through. (I know the dangers of ordering on-line but........) ANYWAY, does this sound like it could be due to my slow DSL connection? I have the slowest one available which is so much faster than the dial-up I had, though. This doesn't happen on my work PC so it's something about this PC.
Diane
-

Boy, you must have strong bones, LISA. OUCH! You might also find you have a sore neck later because that hit probably jerked your neck backwards really fast when it hit your nose.
Diane
-

Mike - yeah, i'm 99% sure it's not broken and boy am i glad i didn't get bloody nose...it's just sore, which i keep forgetting about until i wash my face, blow my nose, etc. oy. :o/
LisaG
-

and sorry for the nose boo-boo. I've never had a broken nose, but from what I've been told if you got one you easily know it.
Mike
-

Ya got my vote for the HOF Lisa! ;-)
Mike
-

ok...i think i need to inducted into the klutz hall of fame. i'm always bumping and knocking into stuff, probably because i'm doing things too fast, but last night, i was taking down 2 empty decorative storage boxes from the top shelf of my tv wall unit, to put the new frank lloyd wright stainless glass panel my mom got me for christmas. well, i forgot that i put a framed sand painting i got in santa fe on TOP of the boxes and, of course, as i'm tilting the boxes towerds me, the frame slide off the top and slams into my nose! freakin' OUCH!!!!!!!!!!! i guess i should be glad the glass didn't shatter, etc...now my nose is sore...i'm icing it to try to keep any swelling down. i don't think it's broken, but DANG that hurt!
lisag
-

Mike - Thanks for the heads up. I will start watching the episodes again when I get back to work and am on my lunch hour. My home connection isn't fast enough to watch them. I started watching OLTL in 1968 while I was in the 5th grade. I went home with a friend after school and she told me we just HAD to watch Dark Shadows. She turned the TV on early so we saw the ending of OLTL. She said she always watches the last 5 minutes. So I started watching DS at home and the last 5 minutes of OLTL until I was hooked on OLTL and started watching the whole 30 minutes of it. So I'd turn on the TV 5 minutes early and watch the last 5 minutes of GH. Then I got hooked on GH. So it was GH, OLTL, and DS every day after school. I really feel ABC/Disney is making a GRAND MISTAKE in cancelling this soap and they will pay the price (as they deserve to). To try and get it together to put it back on the air in another year or two will be a mess for them (one they richly deserve).
Diane
-

hi all...just a reminder that the HGTV dream home giveaway is underway! you can enter twice a day starting today until feb 17th. ----- http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv-dream-home-2012-giveaway-enter/package/index.html ----- and ----- http://www.frontdoor.com/buy/dream-home-2012-sweeps-enter/56094
lisag
-

OLTL - don't know if anyone has given this any mathematical thought, but as of now there are just TEN new episodes left of One Life To Live and then that's it. It joins the realm of past tense. While it bums me - I've been watching off and on since just 1990 - I can't imagine how it feels for those that were watching since a full year and a week before man landed on the moon.
Mike
-

Diane, no, I haven't been keeping tabs on the h-birds.
Mike
-

Mike - Have you seen how big the baby hummers are getting? But brrr....I wish the mating season for hummers was only spring and summer. It gets so cold here at night -- into the 40's -- that I'll worry when they fledge. But they look so healthy! I feel for them when those molting baby 'feathers' itch so much because they are being replaced by real feathers. But they are ready to go next week I think. We are having a couple really warm days Sunday and Monday -- into the 70's -- so that will be nice for their practicing!
Diane
-

Hmmm....think I can borrow some poop from a chimp and throw it at some politicians?
Diane
-

Thanks, Cat, and everyone! Sweetie is second on the POA (if the other sister "cannot perform the duties, etc"). We are trying to think of a way to convince her to give up her power on the POA, and give it over to Sweetie. He would do what is right and fair, but yeah, the g-kids wouldn't be getting a penny until she's gone AND the will is opened AND if there's anything left. Under the sister, money will go straight to the g-kids, regardless of whether or not the mother needs it. It's very sad and frustrating.
Puck
-

RIP, Cheetah....Chimp from 1930s US 'Tarzan' films dead at 80 ------ Cheetah, a chimpanzee said to have performed in the "Tarzan" films of the 1930s, has died at the age of 80, according to the Florida sanctuary where he lived. ------ "It is with great sadness that the community has lost a dear friend and family member on December 24, 2011," the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary in Palm Harbor, Florida announced on its website. ------ Cheetah was said to have performed in "Tarzan the Ape Man" (1932) and "Tarzan and His Mate" (1934), classic films about a man reared in the jungle starring Johnny Weissmuller and Maureen O'Sullivan. ------ Similar claims were made about another very old chimpanzee, named Cheeta, which lives in California. But a writer researching that chimp in 2008 found considerable evidence it was too young to have appeared in the films, and its owners have accepted the findings on their website, cheetathechimp.org. ------ The average life span of a wild chimpanzee is around 45 years. ------ Several chimpanzees were used in the filming of the "Tarzan" movies and subsequent films, during a period when the primates were widely used in Hollywood and often mistreated. ------ The Florida chimpanzee -- which reportedly arrived at the sanctuary in 1960 -- loved finger-painting and watching football, and was soothed by Christian music, the sanctuary's outreach director Debbie Cobb told the Tampa Tribune. ------ "He could tell if I was having a good day or a bad day. He was always trying to get me to laugh if he thought I was having a bad day. He was very in tune to human feelings," Cobb was quoted as saying. ------ Ron Priest, a sanctuary volunteer, told the Tribune that Cheetah stood out because he could walk upright with a straight back like a human, and was distinguished by other talents. ------ "When he didn't like somebody or something that was going on, he would pick up some poop and throw it at them. He could get you at 30 feet with bars in between," Priest said.
LisaG
-

sorry about the double posting
Diane
-

Cat - Interesting about the pickles and ice cream thing. In menopause, I have eaten pickles and gone right for the ice cream container. I thought about how strange that has always seemed but it seemed perfectly fine for me at that time. I needed the supplements that were in them that I was losing. I've also craved leafy dark greens. Once at a buffet where there was steamed chard, I could hardly contain myself and grabbed the spoon and hungrily heaped it on my plate -- to the wonderment of those around me.
Diane
-

Diane - I think the salt helped. When you think of it, that old joke about craving pickles and ice cream. Well, that's salt and calcium and vitamin D. Things you definitely need when pregnant. I remember craving leafy green salads. Well, that's folic acid among other things. Puck - see if you can get hold of the documents. Whatever the bank can or can't do is covered in the loan docs. If her name isn't on the loan as a guarantor, I don't see how they can go beyond the CD. I'd suggest you move all the accounts to another bank, except for the CD, of course. Check and see how extensive the power of attorney is. It may give Sweetie more rights than you think.
Cat
-

Make that the 4:40 mark
Mike
-

The Kennedy Center Honors is on tonight. Last year when they honored Sir Paul McCartney when they did a medley of his songs, it was STUNNING. With Neil Diamond being honored tonight, gosh, what are the odds that they'll have a group sing of "Sweet Caroline"? If youy have 17 minutes to kill, here's a bit of last years with McCartney. The music kicks in at about the 7 minute mark. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z0qUDNXkZU
Mike
-

Mike - Amazing you escaped never having seen It's a Wonderful Life at all! So glad you enjoyed it! I think the first time I saw it was in my early 20's at a night class -- English Lit -- at the local community college. The teacher liked to show us films. I enjoyed it so much. CHRISTINE -- Things can taste so much better warmed up sometimes! Warmed up roasted veggies the next day are awesome.
Diane
-

Mike, I have to admit, I like that SNL skit, Not a fan of Its a Wonderful Life... so i Do like that skit.
Christine
-

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas yesterday! Was MY most meaningful one in quite a while to say the least. Had a great day at my cousin's where she fed and entertained 23 of us. Wowzers! Having never seen it, not even one scene, I made a point Saturday night of dropping everything, head to the living room and watched "It's A Wonderful Life". Liked it lots and lots and can easily see how it's so popular. Wasn't overly fond of the final scene though, what with seemingly the entire town in Bailey's living room, but I accepted it. VERY glad I watched it. Even recorded it and will watch again in case I missed anything. Saturday Night Live's version had the town heading over the Potter's and kicking the beans out of him. (mosly Dana Carvey as Jimmy STewart/George Bailey kicking him around).
Mike
-

Puck. Ouch, can't help you with that one. All angles of that are way out of my element.
Mike
-

Diane, yes, more herbs. I heated them up yesterday with more salt and they were quite yummy with the ham! We knew we were getting a kindle. Right now, DH is reading a book he has wnated for a year. When he is done, I'm reading a xombie book by an author I am friends with on FB, who is a really nice guy. I can't wait!
Christine
-

I'm getting the Dr Quinn series via Netflix these days and just saw the episode where Brian's wolf "Pup", who is now rabid, bites Ingrid and she dies. This episode continues to be such a tearjerker especially at the very end where Brian find "Pup" in the woods and tries to shoot him but then Matthew comes and takes the gun from him and orders Brian to turn his head (which Brian won't so Matthew can't go thru with shooting Pup) and then so Sully takes the gun while Matthew hugs Brian's head into his torso so he is spared. And the two brothers cry so hard with grief because of Ingrid's death (who was bit by Pup) and now Pup's death. They both had intense grief -- one for a fiancee, and one for a dog/wolf. That show was top notch. And Joe Lando was SO swoonworthy and I now see what LISA meant when she said that Thorsten reminded her somewhat of Joe Lando. They do have many qualities (especially in the looks dept) that are alike.
Diane
-

I hope everyone had a nice Christmas. LA is so quiet this time of year -- how nice. CHRISTINE - Cool! Was the kindle a surprise from Santa? On the B sprouts, maybe some more olive oil and some fresh herbs of your choice or dried herbs de provence might help and then you would only need to salt a little. I like using a bit of coarse salt for roasting vegetables.
Diane
-

Puck - That's a tough one. I haven't a clue about the legal stuff. I know so-called lucid people like myself and a couple friends of mine who also mix up nouns these days so I'm not sure how bad it is that she confused liquor for potato -- although I think Vodka is made from potatoes so there may have been a thought connection there -- unless she didn't catch herself and continued to use the word for awhile.
Diane
-

Friends, we are in such a quandary. Someone in the family talked MIL into using some of her CDs as collateral on a loan for a house that was purchased at the top of the market and which they cannot now afford. I'm worried that the bank -- like many banks do -- uses all her accounts as collateral for the others, and that when the house goes into foreclosure, she will lose not just the CDs she used as collateral, but all of them, plus her savings and checking accounts -- all total nearly $200k, almost all the liquidity she has! She largely has her right mind, so attempting to force a guardianship over her through the courts won't be possible (although it might fairly soon -- she's slightly "sundowning", and she has aphasia sometimes, and now she's substituting the wrong words -- she talked about "liquor" when she meant "potato".). But she has no financial intelligence -- her husband handled all of that. Sweetie has helped her a lot with her finances, to help her understand them, and on some of the accounts she doesn't understand, she has given Sweetie power over them. And then she does something like this. The bank isn't open today for me to ask if Cds are collateralized in the same way other accounts are (I know if you have, say, a bank credit card and a checking account at the same bank, they will be collateral for each other). I'm so worried those idiots (this would be the irresponsible sister's daughter and her husband) might have ruined her! And I'm equally bothered by the fact that she kept it a secret from us, didn't consult us, did something stupid without knowing all the ramifications, and that we have no legal options to help her, and no standing within the family (apparently -- or she would have consulted us) to talk her into voluntarily giving up her power over her money. Any ideas, friends? Any thoughts?
Puck
-

Merry Christmas to you all! Going to play with my kindle today!
Christine
-

Merry Christmas everyone. I miss Merfuff too. I was filling out cards earlier this week and was sending one to a friend in Prescott AZ, when I accidently wrote Prescott, WI. I knew Merf was "in the room". vbg.
rebecca
-

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!! :)
LisaG
-

Sprouts were okay. I should have added a ton more salt!
Christine
-

That is cute Janet.
christine
-

Darling Granddaughter #1: Daddy, is Rudolph real? (answers own question). He must be real. He talks.
Janet
-

Well, sloppy joes are in the crockpot, salads in the frige (until they're ready to top). #1 son and Darling Granddaughter #1 are going to make rice krispie treats. Then to tidy kitchen and rest of house for party tonight. It is 2 degrees here. Happy holidays, everyone!
Janet
-

ooooo....balsamic and vanilla ice cream! What a cool combination - wow. Mike - I've noticed the unsalted don't taste badly either. I guess it's all that oil. Also -- I dipped them in ketshup like potato fries. Cat - Interesting that S&V chips helped with nausea. It must have dried up the extra fluid down there like crackers would or something. Or maybe it was something about the vinegar because it has so many healthful benefits. Christine - If I ever make those figs, I will let you know how it turns out. Good luck with your brussel sprouts! Merry Christmas Eve, everybody!
Diane
-

When I was pregnant, S&V helped with the nausea. Then, I had an excuse. Now, I have to stay away, or I"ll just keep eating them. Balsamic - my favorite vinegar. I've never tried it, but I've heard it's good with vanilla ice cream
Cat
-

Agree on S&V potato chips. Never could eat too many though...would leave my lips numb. Still, my all-time fave chips are good ol' regular Wise. Will be a long time though before anything like them cross my lips again. I've had the unsalted before, not bad believe it or not. Could always have them with a small sandwich.
Mike
-

12/23pm - Just watched Monday's OLTL (Fraternity Row OLTL send-up), yes, what a hoot! Merf would have snorfled throughout it uncontrollably, especially Nigella!
Mike
-

Diane, I'm drooling just hearing about it....
Christine
-

Janet - So glad Kevin and your grand daughter will be there for Christmas!! I'll think clear roads for you.
Diane
-

I'm just getting into using balsamic. There's a cool recipe I have in a magazine that I might want to try if there is an occasion. It's stuffed figs -- stuffed with goat cheese and something else -- and there is a sauce that is made with the figs and it is predominantly balsamic vinegar. Reading the directions makes me drool.
Diane
-

CAT - The best salt fix --- salt and vinegar potato chips!!!! Anyone still have Charles Chips trucks in their area? We used to have them here coming to all the office and they disappeared. They used to have DILL potato chips. Oh my gosh. It tasted like potato salad AND a dill pickle at the same time.
Diane
-

I like balsamic vinegar because of the sweetness to it. I usually do balsamic dressings with salads too.
Christine
-

Salt and Vinegar potato chips. Need I say more?
Cat
-

I've never been much of a vinegar fan. So pickles, etc. don't appeal to me. Wish they did. Vinegar's great for hundreds of things, though - I always have some on hand. Headed for college basketball game tonight - I suspect we may win. It's a tourney we sponsor every year. Then tomorrow I'll pick up Kevin and his little girl and bring them home. So - think good thoughts for clear roads here tomorrow.
Janet
-

I've always loved vinegar. Someone actually wrong an entire book on the health benefit of vinegar. I also read it's good to eat pickles when you have a cold because of the vinegar in them. A great thing to help the sinuses is to drink some tomato juice with vinegar in the morning. But I just plain love the stuff. All kinds - rice vinegar, cider vinegar, malt vinegar.....
Diane
-

there is even a recipe from Ina Gartner that is basically the same, but you don't use the vinegar.
Christine
-

I forgot an important part about the malt vinegar and potatoes -- the sugar. You put 3T of sugar in with the malt vinegar and cook it down to a syrup in which to dip the browed roasted potatoes. OH MY GOSH. This is SO GOOD. It's never enough to matter how much I make.
Diane
-

Yes, certain nuts with brussells sprouts go so well! I've seen walnuts used a lot but pine nuts would really be delicious, too. They have that nice smokey flavor.
Diane
-

Safe travels, LISA! CHRISTINE - Yes, that sounds delicious and easy to make! Thank you for typing that whole recipe. My old oven would take twice as long but that's ok. Thank you! Another simple but delicious thing is roasted cut small potatoes with malt vinegar to dip them in to eat. It was in the Veg Times for their annual "Super Bowl Buffet" theme. I think it was an Irish theme last year hence the roasted tatos and malt vinegar. I'm addicted to that combination now. MMmmmmmm!
Diane
-

Happy holidays and safe travel to all!
Janet
-

Yes, that is what the recipes I have read say you can do. Even almonds or walnuts... and bacon!
Christine
-

Well, I'll be heading to the momster's soon for the holiday. I hope you all have a truly wonderful Christmas! :)
LisaG
-

Christine: add pine nuts just before serving, right? That sounds delicious.
Janet
-

You can also add toasted pine nuts to it.
Christine
-

Its a fairly simple recipe.
Christine
-

2- 3 cups brussels sprouts, sliced in half dash salt and pepper, to taste 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp olive oil________________________ Preparation: Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees.______________________ Whisk together the vinegar, salt and pepper together in a small bowl. Slowly incorporate the olive oil until a dressing is formed._________________________ Place the brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the oil and vinegar over the sprouts and gently toss to coat.________________________ Bake for 25 minutes, turning once. Sprouts are done when they are lightly browned.
christine
-

Christine -- It sounds like I might like this recipe, too! Aren't brussel sprouts so good?! Mmmmmm......I've seen Lydia on Lydia's Italian Table saute them in a large skillet. She cuts the end off so they are all leafy. It looks like they get so tender and delicious. Oh boy. Now I really want some brussel sprouts. I kind of like everything organic, though, and it's not easy to find them that way sometimes. They opened up a "Sprouts" nearby here now, though, so I may go in there because they say they have a lot of organic produce.
Diane
-

Mike, I saw the trailer! I cannot wait either.
Christine
-

I have it at home. Its using balsamic vinegar and roasting them in the oven. I just started eating them recently and want to try this.
Christine
-

Christine - YES!!!! Tell me about it!
Diane
-

Should I try a new brussel sprout recipe for Christmas? I am so tempted!
Christine
-

Christine: I think we already had that phone call, detailing all the reasons he can't make it home . . . until yesterday he had his plane tickets reserved. I'm going to miss his presence on so many levels. Did not realize how much I was depending on his unique role in our family. But - - - good things may be happening for him.
Janet
-

!!!!!! The first trailer for The Hobbitt!!! I CANNOT wait for this movie (even though [sigh] it means I'll be another year older...but then, I'll be 80 lbs lighter too!) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0k3kHtyoqc
Mike
-

Thanks Rebecca
Mike
-

Lisa, all the shows will air New Years Day. _______________ Janet, a shame about your son. I foresee a long phone call in your future.
Christine
-

You do have to wonder. It also makes you think how many people have led secret lives for the sakes of their image or what their social circle tells them to be. I remember that movie with Julainne Moore and Dennis Quaid set in the 50s (the title escapes me now). They play a suburban married couple, nice house, he has a good job, she is a wonderful wife and mother... then she finds out he is gay and can't stop himself. I always wonder in the case of the rich and powerful, just how much the wife knows and keeps quiet about.
Christine
-

Sometimes you just have to wonder: what were you thinking???????? A situation here ended a teacher's career early, when discretion would have kept his situation private. Maybe this mayor, at some level, didn't want to keep his orientation private any longer, but this has got to be so hard on his family. I guess you just never know what's really going on in someone else's head, or why they do the things they do . . . .
Janet
-

Toronto sex shop purchase outs Republican mayor ----- Mississippi politician's expense receipts trigger public statement ----- A Mississippi mayor's purchase at a Toronto sex store with public money has pushed him to reveal he is gay, a Tennessee newspaper reported. ----- Southaven Mayor Greg Davis' expense receipts showed that he spent $67 of taxpayers' funds at Priape in Toronto, as well as thousands of dollars on liquor and expensive dinners, the Commercial Appeal newspaper reported. ----- After details of the purchase at the Church Street store, described as "Canada's premiere gay lifestyle store and sex shop" on its website, emerged, the Republican politician conceded for the first time that he is gay. ----- "At this point in my life and in my career, while I have tried to maintain separation between my personal and public life, it is obvious that this can no longer remain the case," Davis told the newspaper in an interview at his Southaven, Miss. home last week. ----- "While I have performed my job as mayor, in my opinion, as a very conservative, progressive individual — and still continue to be a very conservative individual — I think that it is important that I discuss the struggles I have had over the last few years when I came to the realization that I am gay." ----- Davis, who is mayor of Mississippi's third-largest city, told the newspaper he did not remember what he bought at the store during a recruitment trip to Toronto. ----- As well, Davis would not discuss the receipts, which were obtained by the Commercial Appeal under a Freedom of Information request. ----- Davis, who ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2008 on a conservative, family-values platform, told the Commercial Appeal he couldn't discuss specifics on the advice of his attorney. ----- State auditors have demanded that Davis repay the city approximately $170,000 for improper charges to his city-issued and personal credit cards, the newspaper reported. The receipts were given to auditors with the hopes of reducing that amount. Davis has paid $96,000 so far. ----- Unbelievable...first this guy is a massive hypocrite running on a family values ticket...then he's a creep for doing this to his wife and children, plus the taxpayers of Miss...then he's a complete moron for submitting the receipt as a travel expense! If you're gonna do something like this, at least don't be dumb enough to try to expense your personal private purchases! ----- http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/12/20/mississippi-sex-store.html
LisaG
-

Also, thanks for the heads up for the OLTL special on Soapnet. I haven't watched any of them since Port Charles went off the air. But I would love to see any thing with TK again. So I am setting my DVR right now.
rebecca
-

First and foremost, Mike!! So glad you are alive and still our GB buddy. What a scary thing to happen. So glad to hear from you. Life changes on the horizon, right? And next, Happy Birthday LisaG!! Sorry I missed it.
rebecca
-

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/20/cat-soothes-crying-baby-video_n_1160759.html this is really priceless - what a sweet kitty. And baby.
Janet
-

Diane - what's weird is my sister also has had water issues...in TX they don't have basements or crawlspaces, so the flooding water came into their living room...terrible! They had flood insurance, so luckily it was repairable, but still, what a pain. The community builder was finally forced to install culverts to divert water, so their flooding issues should be fixed. If I ever move someplace else, it will be on TOP of a hill/mountain or up on a raised platform...anything to avoid water problems!
LisaG
-

plumBer
Diane
-

Plus, the plummer was just at my place last month because it was leaking water under my bathroom sink. Yeesh, I'm so sick of this! LA has so many old apt bldgs with such bad plumbing and they never re-pipe these places. They let them just fall apart and then they sell the land so someone can build expensive condos that the existing tenants could never afford to live in forcing them to go to the next old bldg and go through the same thing all over again. The rents here have gotten a bit better but they still could go down lower since our salaries have stagnated for so many years now.
Diane
-

It's not good to have water problems according to Feng Shui rules. I think its not good in the money area of life when you have water problems. Glad you fixed yours. I'll be glad when my tub is fixed though I really do not like calling over to these bldg mgrs and I also don't like my apt entered while I am not there but I must be at work tomorrow so.....I just hope Phoebe hasn't made a super stinky messy poo on her wee wee pads in 'her room' (the walk-in closet)before they come, which is right across the hall from the bathroom.
Diane
-

Lisa - Sometimes our moms just won't listen to our great advice. Waddagonnado, right? I agree about getting a UPS so it doesn't happen again in that situation.
Diane
-

The mom-ster also has a drain system and sump pump and her pump went this year. Hers doesn't go off as often as mine, so it lasted a bit longer. When she lost power from hurricane Irene, she started get a little water backing up into the basement. I've been pushing her to get a battery backup system, but she says it's too expensive...to me, it's less than replacing damaged stuff she has stored in her basement. Then I suggested she get a secondary pump in her water pit...again, no. I don't understand why she's so opposed to these kinds of backup/safety systems...she b*tched when she had to deal with the water intrusion, but then won't do anything to help avoid it. I give up.
LisaG
-

Diane - the one pump that went lasted 5 years...not great, but considering it was the primray, it got a workout over the years. I kept the old backup pump because it was technically still working, but I felt better replacing it with the new primary. I'll keep just in case I ever need one in a pinch.
LisaG
-

I have a clogged tub at the apt. Yuck. I'm so tired of old buildings having old pipes and this type of thing being so frequent. The apt I lived in in Phoenix for 2 yrs never once had any kind of plumbing problem. Why won't these owners of these older apt bldgs invest the money and replace the pipes when they are 50 years old? These pipes are 54 years old and they are still in place. The plumber is always there. There are constant water and pipe problems. Wish I could afford something with new plumbing.
Diane
-

Lisa - How long did your last sump pumps last? I seem to remember you buying them. ? JANET - So sorry about #3 not making it home for Christmas. :( You were probably counting on it since Christmas is only in 5 days.
Diane
-

Oh -- Tina going over the waterfall was great!!! I sure hope they put all these on imdb because I don't have a TV at home anymore.
Diane
-

Wow, I hope they do that great Valentine's Day episode when bare-chested Patrick was shot and up in Marty's attic --- and Rev. Andrew and Maggie are hosting the Loveline and they do Brown Penny which morphs into TK's voice after the first line or two.
Diane
-

That's neat that they're going to play favorite eps from the past...does anyone know if they're going to provide dates of what will be playing when? I'd only really be interested in the TK stuff. -------- BTW - my "joy" of buying myself 2 sump pumps for my birthday was extreme sarcasm...I would have preferred to spend the $588 bucks some other way, but it's bought me some peace of mind that the crawl space is hopefully now all set with the new pumps and double battery back up. My last couple of to do's is putting some sound proofing insulation in the floor joists to not hear the pump and also figuring out how to get two 70 lb. marine batteries out of the crawlspace and to the recycling center! This is when a boyfriend or husband would come in handy! ;)
LisaG
-

Shoot. #3 son cannot make it home for the holidays. We will miss him . . .
Janet
-

Sunday, January 1 10 am EST | On the witness stand, Karen Wolek (played by Judith Light) stuns everyone by admitting that she was a prostitute (original air date 3/6/79). 11 am | In Argentina, the boat Tina was on goes over the waterfall. Distraught Cord takes out his anger on Max. Kate feels it’s her fault; Gabrielle tells Max that she can get along just fine without him. (OAD 3/9/87). Noon | The Buchanan clan goes back in time to the old west for Clint and Ginny’s wedding; Asa and Cord can’t figure out why pictures of Bo are missing (OAD 5/13/88). 1 pm | Jake is devastated as Megan dies in his arms (OAD 2/7/92). 2 pm | OLTL’s 25th Anniversary show: Viki and Dorian are locked together in a secret room; In the hospital, Tina sits by Cord’s bedside and reminisces about their history; Luna is adamant that Max is alive (OAD 7/15/93). 3 pm | Viki leaves her wedding and walks in on Dorian’s affair with Joey; Powell holds Todd at gunpoint; David asks Tina to accept his proposal and secretly marry him (OAD 11/28/94). 4 pm | Todd and Blair are married and celebrate with a private wedding reception; Marty and Patrick sleep together; Kelly asks Joey to help her lose her virginity (OAD 11/14/95). 5 pm | Viki realizes that she (or, rather, Tori) killed Victor Lord, while Dorian is arrested for his murder (OAD 12/8/95). 6 pm | All of Asa’s wives* turn out for his “funeral.” Adjusting to the news that she’s a Buchanan, Natalie makes an angry appearance at the service (OAD 11/16/01). *Watch for a subtle-yet-classic Mia Korf nod. 7 pm | One of the show’s live episodes: Niki is desperate to get out of Viki’s marriage to Ben; Blair confronts Todd for lying to her that her baby died; Natalie warns Jen about Al. Angry Al tells Max he wants nothing to do with him; Antonio defends Keri to his mother re: her financial issues (OAD 5/14/02). 8 pm | In the hospital after being rescued from the pit, Natalie shares her feelings with John; Jess tries to tell Nash that she’s not Tess, but Tess takes over; Rex thanks Evangeline for saving Natalie (OAD 8/22/05). 9 pm | As he awaits his execution, an emotional Todd gives final goodbyes to his loves ones. Meanwhile, John has the evidence to prove Todd innocent, but can he get to the prison in time? Antonio pleads with Tess, as he tries to get through to Jessica (OAD 5/29/06). 10 pm | After Starr gives birth to Hope, she bonds with Blair and Marcie; Todd decides not to steal the baby, but Bess does instead; Viki saves Natalie and Jared from the bomb in the secret room; John reveals to Marty that it was Todd who raped her (OAD 11/10/08). 11 pm | In front of friends and family, Bo and Nora are married by David (OAD June 7, 2010).
christine
-

Soapnet will be airing classic OL episodes on January 1st! We are talking Megan dying, Karen admitting to being a prostitute on the witness stand, TK in all his poetic glory... and not just excerpts but whole episodes!
Christine
-

Cat - I just saw yesterday's OLTL, and I so agree! What a hoot! How imaginative the whole thing was and how great everyone was at playing these weird parts. But there was such a sadness to it all, too, as the whole thing was alluding to the end of OLTL. How sad to watch the two actors walk off the OLTL soundstage at the end. When is the airing date of the last episode of OLTL? ABC is cutting it's own throat, and I hope it never recovers.
Diane
-

Janet - I am so happy to hear how well Marica is doing and how much the baby inside her is thriving! I have a co-worker who is in the same situation right now. Her first two babies came so very premature. She was very unlucky with the first one, but the second one did well and is now 2 years old. Right now, as it is with Marica, she found out her baby inside is just over 4 pounds. She is so happy and this is the longest she has carried a baby inside so all the prayers coming from everyone are really helping with both of them. I have seen such amazing things with prayers.
Diane
-

Mike, so glad you are home. Take care of yourself! Lisa, your home repair/maintenance skills amaze me. Glad your mom's doing OK. Diane, thank you for keeping Marica on your prayer list. I know every prayer helps. Baby is over 4 pounds now (however they measure baby weight in utero, not sure!) and that is very good.
Janet
-

I was watching Vintage Loving on Youtube yesterday at lunch. It was an ep from 1984 just before I started watching it. I LOVED that show. I'd come home from work and eat my lunch and watch it since it was only 30 minutes. It was so dramatic and the characters were such a hoot sometimes.
Diane
-

Hi Cat - Thanks for the heads-up! I'll watch OLTL on my computer during my lunch hour. Yesterday's ep should be available today.
Diane
-

Lots of news here! Mike - so glad you are well. Just wasn't your time, but don't cut it so close! Lisa - I'm glad for the good news on your mother. Did anyone see yesterday's OLTL? Have to say, that was the funniest episode ever, and you could tell the actors were just having a great time. What a riot.
Cat
-

I've been thinking of a Hoover windtunnel. Or a Kenmore. I had one that lasted so many years. They seem to make so many of them now with this cheap cheap weak plastic, though.
Diane
-

LOL! Hey Lisa - let's go out someplace and get carded. :) MIKE!!!! So great to see you! So glad you are home and resting now!
Diane
-

Woo hoo! Sump pumps have been replaced and boy were they FAST! Company said they'd be here between 8am and noon and they were here exactly at 8, which was nice. The guy replaced both pumps in an hour and the price quote was exactly as stated on the phone...and HALF of what another company quoted me! The guy was very nice and we were chatting about work and he asked how long I was with my company...when I said 26 years, his eyes bugged out. LOL! Then I told him I celebrated my 51st birthday yesterday and his eye got even bigger! ROTFLOL! He was flabbergasted and said no way I looked that old, then walked to his truck shaking his head...so that sure started my day off nicely! :D Too bad I FEEL like an old biddy sometimes! ;)
LisaG
-

Lisa, glad to hear she is doing fine. ______________________ Mike, thanks for checking in!!!Rest up!! ____________________________ I am not sure what kind of vacuum I want. I had a dirt devil for years and really liked it. DH wants a Dyson, but they are expensive!
Christine
-

Mike!Good to hear you're home and recuperating already. Good news all around today!
LisaG
-

Oh, mom-ster also went for her consultation today...report sounded positive. They want to do a little more surgery in January to get a bit more of the edges and depth of the melanoma mole, but from what the nurse and dr said, it sound like they got it very early. WHEW! Best birthday present I could get! :) Thanks again for the positive thoughts and vibes everyone was sending...keep it coming! :)
LisaG
-

Hey all. Tried to post again last night or this morning from the hosp, but the GB locks up the browser on my iPhone most of the time and I just couldn't get here and forgot the addy for the add comments page. Anyway, I got discharged today and am home resting and posting from the iPad (It must have more RAM than the iPhone). Need the rest too, man I'm bushed! Happy birthday Lisa!!!
Mike
-

Just got back from TK's and free hot wings. Unfortunately, not enough people showed up to eat them all...bummmer! Still it, was good to get out. Re: vacuums...I have a Hoover Windtunnel...awesome on carpets...it really sucks...in a GOOD way! :)My mom has Miele...very expensive, but it lasts forever and has great settings and tools.
Lisag
-

Christine - What brand of vacuum cleaner are you interested in? I have a Shark cannister and I am very unhappy with it. The tiny handheld Shark, though, is great.
Diane
-

Lisa, you know you are an adult when a sump pump is a great gift. I wanted a new vacuum cleaner for Christmas but DH refused to get me one, saying his co-workers (most female) would be scandalized he got me that! Well, Valentine's is always coming up. I really want one too!
christine
-

Hey Mike -- Get back here when you can so we know you are still ok! Where did you go? I know, you should be resting....but we're a restful bunch most of the time...
Diane
-

Lisa - LOL! I thought you were just giddy with the excitement of new sump pumps! Something is in the planets, I think, this week because my blow dryer quit after 2 seconds and my tub clogged.
Diane
-

oop...'scuse the double postie! i swear i haven't started drinking yet! ;)
lisag
-

Thanks, Diane! For my birthday, I'm buying myself 2 new sump pumps...oh joy! :P I managed to find a local company that can come out tomorrow morning and replace the pumps I have...WHEW!
LisaG
-

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LISA!!
Diane
-

Oh and by battery backup, I mean in the crawlspace for the sump pumps in case of a power outage. We've had enough of that already, so hopefully no more this winter. Ok, I'm off to start wrapping Christmas presents! Fa-la-la-la-la...la-la...la...la!
LisaG
-

Wow - I'm glad you're doing better, Mike! I hope things continues to improve for you. --------- Janet - good news on your DIL and the baby. Also good to hear your sister is doing better. -------- Sounds like it's been a rough month for so many people...I know I keep trying to look on the positive side of things because most things bugging me can be fixed/taken care of (knock-on-wood). I am happy to say I didn't fry myself when installing the 2nd battery backup set tonight. ;) On the down side, when in the crawlspace, I realized that one of my 2 sump pumps is no longer working. So now, I have to pay to replace it after just under 5 years...I left a vmail for the company that installed it and I'm hoping they may give me a break on the price. I would also feel better if I can get it installed before I head to NJ for the holiday...it shouldn't be a huge effort, but may be more of a scheduling issue.
LisaG
-

Janet, I also am happy DIL is doing good. She will stay in my prayers.
Christine
-

Mike, wow... I am so glad you are still with us! Unbelievable. You probably are around my age and things like this really strike home. Thank you for keeping us up to date, but please, take care of yourself. Whatever they say... do.....
christine
-

Janet - So happy DIL has gotten this far along in her pregnancy! Prayers really work! :) I'm so sorry about your sister. What a hard situation to be in. How long will you stay in Finland once you get there?
Diane
-

Mike -- so glad you are OK! So glad you've got good treatment . . . my DIL is about 5 weeks from her due date and baby (boy)is a little over 4 pounds, so all is going well, even if she should go early. I will go to Finland in feb, I think, to play Grammy for a while. So that is great news. Just got home from 3 days at my sister's. She was hospitalized for pneumonia and then her hematocrit dropped dramatically so they thought something else was wrong, and as her husband has Alzheimer's and can't make medical decisions, I was needed in case decisions had to be made. She is doing much better, crit is going up now, and she's home. So I am home, too.
Janet
-

Mike - When we they be releasing you from the hospital -- which seems to happen too soon for everything these days.
Diane
-

Thank you, Rebecca!
Diane
-

Mike - OH my gosh -- Thank GOD, you are all right now! I am putting you in the Healing Prayer Circle!! I'm so glad you came on to let us know from your hospital bed. So when they are doing the shent thing, you are awake I take it? How do they do that when you are awake? Was it painful? Do you have nitroglycerin tablets now for if you ever feel any angina coming on?
Diane
-

Oops. That should be 12-18.
Mike
-

12-16: Well ladies, I cannot begin to tell you how happy I am to be able to post today, because, simply, I am lucky to be alive today.____ Thursday morning while at work I had a heart attack, and while it has been termed as mild, subsequent testing and the size, location and contents of the blockage indicates I am indeed a lucky man. The blockage was, and I quote, 99.99% blockage right at the point the left coronary artery branches into two. Both branches blocked with a large portion of calcium. ______Right then and there they normally go into emergency bypass, but they figured with my risk factors (very overweight and poorly controlled type 2 diabetes), that I probably would not survive the bypass. So they battled the block for 3.5 hours (normally just 30 minutes even for 4 stents/blockages) and got three stents in at that branch. ____ I gotta tell you, the 3.5 hour procedure, with which maybe 45 minutes of intense pressure during balloon expansion, made the pain of Thursday's attack (which I labeled 7 out of 10) , seem like a walk in the park. Believe you me, I ain't NEVER going through this again. Wake up call placed and taken. Still in the hospital, will likely get out Monday or Tuesday.
Mike :-)
-

{{{Diane}}} I am so glad to hear your good news. You certainly deserve it.Hugs all around. @LisaG- it'a good that your mom caught it early on the mole. I had one removed about 4 years ago. I just have to have everything checked every year now. No cancer has come back but it's good to be safe.
rebecca
-

I usually get him a couple of cans of yummy food (he east low fat from the vet, so it really is a treat to get nine lives), but one of his toys broke. It is battery powered with a dangling feather that they chase around. DH originally bought it. I was at the pet store and it is $27!! Still I'm going to get it. He better play with it. I'm off starting next Friday and come back to work January 2nd. I can't wait. I'm going to lock myself in my room this weekend and wrap. DH already has my gifts under the tree!
Christine
-

christine - yeah, it caught up to us, huh? luckily i'm on vacation starting today until the new year, so i should have time to wrap before i head to nj to the mom-ster's. you go buy that present...cat presents are the most important ones!!! >^..^<
Lisag
-

I can't believe next weekend is Christmas already! I have to wrap! I still have one more gift to buy, granted it is for my cat, but I still have to buy it.
Christine
-

Janet - How is your DIL? How many weeks along is she now?
Diane
-

I think the whole family next door is struggling. The son is a student and they have 2 kids and I think they moved in to save on expenses. The husband, as I mentioned, is unemployed, but won't take jobs "below" him. It's tough. They may be getting some govt assistance, don't know. don't know how they make the house payments.
Janet
-

janet - that guy sounds creepy to me. it's one thing to think about doing something wrong like that, another to actually do it, but to ASK someone else if it's ok to do it...to basically condone it for them? ewwww! i would warn the other neighbors about what he said if i were you.
lisag
-

Happy birhtday Puck!_----------------------------- Janet, that neighbor sounds weird!
Christine
-

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PUCK!!! Hope you have a wonderful day!
LisaG
-

Janet - I think that's a heck of a lot of nerve for him to suggest you do that when this is HIS problem. I wonder if maybe the other family members moved in to help him out financially then.
Diane
-

That news event this morning of the 41 year old woman dying in that elevator accident in NYC was quite scary. We don't think of losing our life going into an elevator much. That poor poor woman.
Diane
-

We keep the cans in the garage. One for green waste, one for recycling, and one for garbage. Yeah, why he thought we should take our garbage across the street to the neighbors' cans is a mystery to me. He has been unemployed for some time. That's tough but there are many jobs he will not take. His wife is working full-time.
Janet
-

Happy Birthday, Puck!
Diane
-

Janet - Do they recycle in your area? Do you have the same kind of blue cans we have here for recyling? I generate so much less garbage these days because I recycle everything that can be recycled so my trash is just paper towels, dumped cat food, and scraps. Neighbor should use his recycling can a lot more if he is filling up his garbage can too often.
Diane
-

Hey, it's Puck's birthday today! Hope it's been a good one!
Janet
-

Janet - It does sound like there's some loose bananas up that tree. I don't blame you for feeling a bit creeped out. For one thing, WHY is he asking YOU about the trash can of the women across the street? Why not go knock on their door and ask if they'd mind if he threw his garbage in there? Why is he involving you in this? Do they seem to make a good living over there? If so, he should tell the city he needs another can and then pay for it. How much can it be --- unless there are a few unemployed people over there making it hard to make ends meet. STILL, I fail to see why he made this your problem. I think you can get a garbage can lock for the days the trash man doesn't come. I've seen them in LA here.
Diane
-

i had a strange conversation with my neighbor yesterday. He knocked at the door (he had stood at the end of the driveway after I pulled in, and then I shut the overhead door, wondering what the heck . . . then he came to the side door of the garage). That was strange enough. But then he said "do you think those girls across the street fill their garbage cans every week? There's just the two of them. I said probably not. He said his was overflowing because his son and family are living with them. Then he said " do you think those girls would mind if you put your garbage in their can?" I must have looked dumfounded, wondering if he'd really said that, and then he said "or do you fill yours every week?" "Oh, yes, we generate a lot of garbage," I said. Indirectly he was trying to comandeer our garbage can because he needs it more than we do. These are provided by the city and he'd have to pay to get another one, but geez........................... So now I'm going to be paranoid about my garbage can on Wednesdays, which is gargage day. Will he slip out and dump stuff in our can before we can take it back into the garage? Now, I've never cared much about garbage one way or another, but this was really, really odd. I've had some strange conversations with him, but this one tops it.
Janet
-

it just unbelievable how people try to take advantage of others...it's really terrible.
lisag
-

Leave it to Lisa to put these guys in their place! Good for you, Lisa, making them do the job they were well-paid to do!!! Good thing you were home to see it.
Diane
-

unbelievable. i caught the tree trimmer people trying to toss all the piles of cut brush, tree limbs and trunks back up into the hill behind my and other people's townhouses! ----- i called out to the guy asking why it wasn't being taken away to be chipped up and removed properly and he said he was just told to toss it up the hill. i said it made the place look like a dump...it was horrible...he agreed. ----- i told him i was going to call the townhouse association because that's not what we paid for. well, 15 minutes later, i see him talking to some guy and then he starts to pull all the brush BACK out! ha ha ha! ----- i just went out myself and pulled the pieces (big trunk chunks) and brushy limbs out from behind my place that were still there. 45 minutes later and his pile on the curb for chipping just doubled in size! ----- we paid these jerks $12k (!) to do tree trimming and brush removal and they try to pull that crap...i'm going to report it to the board, too.
Lisa G
-

To see what the course is like, click on your state and then click on the preview button.
LisaG
-

I was able to get a discount price on the course through my insurance company. You should first call your insurance co and ask if they give a discount on your premium if you take the class and also ask if you can get a discount on the course price through them. I only paid $20 back in April, but it looks like the regular price is just over $41.
LisaG
-

diane - the online defensive driving course is at www.nscddconline.com
LisaG
-

I went to this site: http://www.defensivedrivingus.com and -- get this -- in the state of CA, you MUST get a ticket before being allowed to take the course. This is one nutty world, isn't it?
Diane
-

Hey, Lisa -- where can we find how to take that on-line defensive driving course you took? I think I might like to take that also. The drivers in this city are getting worse and worse. I am at a point where I just loathe pulling out of our apt driveway every day. If I don't put my headlights on all day, people will pull out in front of me just feet from my car. Sometimes they just rush out of their driveway right out into the road without looking.
Diane
-

well, it sounds like she was a reckless driver whether she was aware of it or not. that's why everyone needs to be up on the defensive driver techniques...trust no one!
lisag
-

Of course she might have just been a reckless driver!
christine
-

My doctor was also really good when I had my last surgery. She prescribed the pain pills for me on my last visit so I could get them and have them on hand in plenty of time for the surgery. And, like Lisa said, the day surgery clinics refuse to release any patient until there is someone there to pick them up and drive them home. They also do not allow the patients to take the bus or taxi home. I don't know what was going on with that woman but it could be that she was in horrible pain with no one to pick up her meds so she drove herself. Pain makes people desperate and self-absorbed so she wasn't thinking about anyone else when she did it. OR, if she just got out of surgery, that place that released her to drive herself home could get their pants sued off if she hit anyone.
Diane
-

Christine: When I wanted to pick up my pain meds a day before my foot surgeries, you'd have thought I was asking for the moon. But they allowed it . . . . so then the pills were right there on my nightstand when I got home. One less thing for Mr. J to do, and no waiting in line while I was home, needing them. Yeah, there are plenty of times you just should not drive. Sometimes social workers are the ones who come in and arrange for aftercare, and some folks really do need help but don't ask. ..............my sister is in the hospital for pneumonia. 2nd time this winter. She said they were doing so many tests all they hadn't done was DNA and I said, oh, no, they already have your dna in the blood samples if they want to analyze it :). Hopefully she will be home in a few days, but I don't know how much help she'll need and if her 4 sons (three live within half an hour of her home) will step up to the plate. Her husband has always been the responsible one, but now he's dealing with Alzheimer's and they will need some help.Until recently he had her medical power of attorney but depended on his daughter to interpret it. Now they've updated all of that, thank goodness.
Janet
-

I agree. The clinic I go to has an in house pharmacy that many people take advantage of. I used them once. The doctor sends the prescription electronically to them and they usually have it done fairly quickly.
Christine
-

Christine - if that woman had surgery and needed meds and had no one to help her, she should have told the dr...they can often get the prescriptions for patients and let them leave with them after their appt. Still, you also wonder if the dr/clinic where she may have had her procedure even made sure she had someone driving her afterwards. When I went in for my back injections, they wouldn't let me leave until they confirmed I had a ride home and wasn't trying to drive myself. That woman could have taken a cab or even had the meds delivered to her. Now-a-days, people rarely think beyond themselves and their own needs.
LisaG
-

Janet, I told him that maybe she had no one to drive her to get medicine. Who knows? She could have even hit a pedestrian.
Christine
-

If you get into gingerbread house decoration this time of year... http://www.thedailymeal.com/12-over-top-gingerbread-houses-2011-slideshow
LisaG
-

Christine: your husband was quite kind about the woman who nearly hit him, being bandaged and all . . you're right, should she have been driving in the first place?
Janet
-

Diane - that's scary! people are in their own little worlds with those stupid cell phone calls and texting. it's unbelievable how many drivers still use it when it's illegal. i took an defensive driving class online to get a discount on my car insurance...there was a lot of really good information and i notice i'm much more cautious of other drivers...i see each one as a potential threat and do all i can to avoid them.
lisag
-

Diane, don't get me started on people on their cells or even worse people texting!
christine
-

Mike - The second egg hatched, too!!! If anyone else is interested: www.phoebeallens.com
Diane
-

Sorry -- should has wrote "someone in that car yelled at the DRIVER about the red light"
Diane
-

You all are in good company with getting the creepy vibe from the Powells. There are some people on the Websleuths site that cannot tolerate hearing either of those two men talk because they say they feel like they need to take a shower afterwards. Definitely unhealthy for those boys. I sure hope they quickly can find something to arrest Josh on for murder so he stops playing with the children's minds on his visit once a week.
Diane
-

Thanks, Lisa, I'll add her right away. Christine -- So glad DH is ok! I swear, some people are just crazy maniacs on the road and it seems to be getting worse and worse these day. A few years ago, I was going to my car parked across the street after church. It's a windy fairly quiet road (for LA). I got the "walk" sign at the light and proceeded to walk across. It's two lanes in each direction so I had cleared the first lane and was in the second lane when suddenly a small expensive sports car (so common in that area for the super rich to drive like speed-racer!!) comes careering around the corner. I froze. Never thought I would, but I did. I froze and my knees bent in preparation for being hit. Thankfully, someone else in the car yelled at me about the red light and he put on the brakes and stopped just about 6 feet from hitting me. I would have went flying into the air if I had been hit. THe next time, a woman was on her cell phone. I was in the crosswalk again (pedestrians have the ride-away here but I still try be very careful because I'm from NY) crossing a nearby wide street. Apparently, she was gabbing to someone and didn't realize she got the green light, so she gunned the gas and was coming straight for me in the intersection. Suddenly, she sees me, but to avoid hitting me, her car careened all over the place as she tried to steer suddenly to the right to avoid hitting me. Whew.
Diane
-

DH almost got hit by a car yesterday. He was driving out of the Jewel Osco parking lot, when this woman speeds out of the drive through pharmacy going at least 40. She missed him by only a couple of feet. He was angry, but isn't a road rage guy... especially when he looked over and saw her face was covered in bandages as if she might have had a nose job... he figures she was either not able to see well or on meds that made her out of it... but why was she driving??
Christine
-

I'm sure they do.
Christine
-

Just came home from a wonderful concert. My favorite a capella group. It never quite feels like Christmas until I hear them sing. I wonder if they realize how much their music means to others? Hope they do.
Janet
-

Diane - her name is Magda...thanks! And thank you to everyone sending their positive vibes. She goes to the dermatologist every year to be checked, so it sounds like it was caught very early...knock-on-wood.
LisaG
-

Happy birthday BJ!
Christine
-

My #2 son, BJ, is 32 today!!!!!!! Happy birthday, BJ, so proud of you. Love, Mommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Janet
-

Not sure why I am calling Josh, Steve..... but hopefully you all know what I mean. I am glad the boys are with her parents too. I hope they weren't exposed to anything by those sicks.
christine
-

On a much happier note, pun intended,tonight we attend the annual Christmas Concert of one of my favorite a capella groups, who started here at our university about 15 years ago - - and they still get together to record and give concerts a couple of times a year, though most have moved out of the area. And last year when we went, I was on crutches, no weight at all on my foot, so this year is better all around!
Janet
-

The Powells are indeed sick. And we had Mark Hacking (whose brothers sat him down and made him tell them where Lori's body was - -- - the defense attorney said he had never seen such betrayal in his life - - - - - whatever happened to doing what is right?) and Elizabeth Smart - - all in our area. I think Josh is indeed narcissistic and everything else, but you know what? I think he will never, ever tell. He's just smart - - and self-involved enough to keep that to himself. So glad the grandparents got custody of the boys!
Janet
-

Diane, the father creeped me out and Steve creeps me out. Something just not normal there. In my area we have Drew Peterson, who is a creep, but I can see where he can manipulate people into doing things for him. He is quite narcisstic. There is also the Lisa Stebic case. Another woman who "ran off" with a man. Her husband still lives int he same house and still has his kids. He lays very low. He struck me as creepy, but neither of these men set off such a creepiness in my as Steve Powell (and his father). Its not just "oh he is a killer" but more along the lines of how you feel about a Dahmer or Gacy... there is something more then just whacko about the guy.
Christine
-

She looks cute!
Christine
-

Here's an cute photo ID mentioned in a USA Today article. Jennifer Grey's Jr High School ID. The article states Ms Grey is "mortified" by the photo. http://i.usatoday.net/communitymanager/_photos/lifeline-live/2011/12/09/jennifergreyx-large.jpg
Mike
-

Mike - We have a hatch! YAY!!!
Diane
-

Lisa, I am not a religious man, but your mother will be in my thoughts and hopes for a complete positive outcome of this.
Mike
-

Christine - I think I might have seen that drawing of John welcoming George up into heaven. I can picture it in my mind. It is so touching and gives such a warm feeling -- and a sad one, too. On the Powell case -- I agree about the husband and father being very sick men. Susan was only 20 years old when she married Josh, and her parents did not care for him from the get-go but said they let her make her own decision, of course. Yes, I think it's possible Josh was molested by his father -- at the very least, he was very affected by his father's sick mind and sick game playing. Thank GOD those two little boys are finally with their maternal grand parents. I read that they get very upset and angry and obstinate after their Sunday visits with their father. Josh says they are turning his sons against him -- it sounds like the other way around! -- and wants his sons removed and put in a foster home. Me thinks he is scared his sons will TALK and TELL ALL. He is not mature -- he is selfish. He does not care about their welfare no matter how much bull he spews. Josh cares about Josh. Steve Powell cares about Steve Powell. It doesn't extend to anyone else, I think. It kills me that Josh wasn't arrested two years ago. If only the cops had spared a couple cops for one freakin day to tail Josh, he would have led them to Susan's body. We may be coming to an arrest sooner than we think, though. THe cops aren't saying what they have learned with newer evidence and the judge even said "We'll meet in ______ again on this custody case unless this whole thing is resolved by that time." That makes some people think the judge was told they are getting closer to an arrest. I get all this from that Websleuths site! LOL
Diane
-

Lisa - I sure will. What is your mother's first name or first initial if you prefer? I also have seen a guy at work who had a melanoma mole removed from his face, and he has been ok for years now so I pray the same thing for your mother. Does she regularly go to the dermologist for checking? If it only recently became melanoma, she should be ok. But lets get those prayers going anyway. So thankful you were with her when she got the news.
Diane
-

Wow, 10 years since George died. I remember one illustration showed Lennon with Harrison in his arms saying welcome up in heaven. It was quite moving. _____________________________________ Dateline had on the Powell case last night. That husband and FIL are both creepy! Both were blaming the church for their woes and something in the husbands demeanor suggests a VERY mentally ill (beyond murder) person. I wonder if his father molested him and twisted him mentally? The lies, the stories... it was truly unbelievable. DH said how all of these women who are missing are said to have run off with some man.... I said boy there must be an island filled with couples somewhere that they are all at!
Christine
-

Lisa, I will keep your mom in my prayers.
christine
-

Melanomas can be treated very successfully, and I hope that's the case with your mom, Lisa. Hopefully it's been caught early. Glad you were with her.
Janet
-

hey diane - can you add my mom to your prayer circle? she just found out today that a mole removed was melanoma. :( they say it's "superficial", but they're going to do an additional surgery to remove more tissue to be sure they got everything. no chemo or radiation therapy is needed at this point, but it's still pretty scary and sucks to find this out right before the holidays. luckily, i was home with her (setting up her christmas tree) when she found out.
lisag
-

Yeah, was weird for me too about being reminded about Harrison passing ten years ago. Today at work five of us were listening to a 60s station on AOL Radio and when a Beatles song came on I asked everyone who their fave Beatle was and four of us five, including me, said George. John got the last nod. We then went into a Fab Four trivia session. I threw my favorite one at them. It's "When did Paul McCartney record Silly Love Songs?". The answer? The answer is 1971-1981 ;-)
Mike
-

Mike - Has it really been 10 years already? I can't believe it. How 'funny' because just yesterday on my lunch hour, I had the urge to go to Youtube and listen to some of George Harrison's Indian bajan that he learned from Ravi Shankar. I also wanted to hear My Sweet Lord. 10 years went by so quickly. I don't remember it being close to 9/11 either.
Diane
-

Wow. I hadn't realized it was ten years ago last week that George Harrison died. Saw a special edition Life mag on George. Still doesn't ring a bell tha the passed shortky after 9/11.
Mike
-

Mike - I'm so excited about the baby hummers coming! I haven't watched this early in the year. I read that sometimes the eggs are nonviable due to the cold weather. I'm concerned about egg #1 because she left the nest for quite awhile one day -- so long that viewers got worried -- and it was chilly that day so I hope the egg is ok. Someone said she sits longer after she lays the second egg, which she did. Reading Phoebe's Facts, I see that sometimes she has had non-viable eggs. Once was in January and another time it was in April Don't know if weather was a factor but I suppose it could have been.
Diane
-

Thanks Janet. Ain't hooped probaby since that very filming. I's need a much bigger hoop now a days. DIANE - our fave hummingbird will likely have a couple of hatchings this weekend, first of the new season. Hatch-watch starts this weekend.
Mike
-

Mike: you were a good hula-hooper!
Janet
-

Puck - I agree. So wasteful and sad. I wish someone who could have appreciated that home had purchased it.
Diane
-

Mike - Maybe Beverly Hills has some for that price. But in the real world with the rest of the 99%, nope, bras don't cost that much. The most I've seen a bra cost was between $30 - $40. But I don't spend that much on mine. I like the $10 sales. :)
Diane
-

Mike: Nope, haven't seen anything close to that price.
Janet
-

OK ladies. Question for you. I'm watching a re-run of Two And A Half Men and the guys mom (Holland Taylor...GREAT in this role) mentions her $300 bra. Now, I am not surprised they exist at that price, but have any of you ever even seen one that cost at least that much with your own two eyes? If so, what's the most expensive you've seen? Guess we guys got it easy, my 7-packs of BVDs ain't even 10 bucks.
Mike
-

Diane -- oh, that's horrible!!! When will people ever learn?
Puck
-

Janet, that's the exact same flash mob video I posted below :-) 35 million hits. It was even mentioned on a few news shows last year and I think The View showed it.
Mike
-

This is another really good flash mob video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=SXh7JR9oKVE#!
Janet
-

oh, no, I just caught a yahoo headline about another tragedy at VA Tech. No way! Not again.
Janet
-

sorry, I did forget the link: here it is - it's a promotional video for the teacher certification program he's pursuing in Finland. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q6Hw7Zvz4Q&feature=related ............I think his old high school teachers would say huh? I remember him, a good/mischievous kid, an athlete, a chick magnet, but graduate degrees in Finland????? I guess it goes to prove that you never know what opportunities may come their way.
Janet
-

No Diane, she DID forget to put the link in her post ;-)
Mike
-

Thanks, Puck and Janet! Janet - I think maybe you forgot to put the link down?
Diane
-

Diane, great, great news!!!!!!!!! Aw, I loved Colonel Potter. ...........here is a link that features my #2 son, BJ, about a teacher certification program he's taking in Finland . . .
Janet
-

Puck - The house was already sold a year or so ago. The money was held in an account by the estate lawyer. And it's so sad about the people who purchased that beautiful pine house (inside and out). They bought it and BULLDOZED IT DOWN!! It's such a shameful waste. That was the most beautiful wood and that home had been shown in many home magazines for it's beauty. So they bulldozed it down to build a shoddy McMansion. What a crying shame.
Diane
-

Diane -- YAYYYYY!!!! Now what? -- will you sell the house?
Puck
-

Thank you so much, Everybody!! Yes, it is a HUGE relief and it will be nice not to be haunted anymore by dark fear if I lost which would have meant I was in deep financial trouble. Thank GOD for this decision. Lisa - my lawyer's closing briefs (I don't know the correct term for them) state that Juan A..... admitted to knowingly committing two crimes on the stand when he obtained drivers licenses in states he did not reside in. I don't know if that's enough to get him deported, but it should be since all the immigration services in NY kept telling us he had to commit a crime first. MIKE - What a sad photo. :( It's such a shame they did that to such a great show. I also loved what they did yesterday with them all watching Fraternity Row!! OLTL was always coming up with new ideas from time to time and thrilling the audience. I keep picturing that sound stage full of the sets and the actors who have come and gone doing their scenes in those spaces.
Diane
-

Diane - AWESOME news!!! Merry early Christmas to you, huh?! I really hope that SOB guy gets what's coming to him in spades...I hope they deport him...the US doesn't need scum suckers like him around.
LisaG
-

Congratulations, Diane!!! What a great early Christmas gift. :)
kmp
-

oops...didn't scroll down far enough to see someone had already posted the news about 'Colonel Potter', Henry Morgan.
kmp
-

"M*A*S*H*" Col. Potter, Henry Morgan, Dies ....By GREG RISLING Associated Press ..... Published: Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 1:57 p.m. Last Modified: Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 1:57 p.m. ..... LOS ANGELES | Emmy-winning character actor Harry Morgan, whose portrayal of the fatherly Col. Potter on television’s “M-A-S-H” highlighted a show business career that included nine other TV series, 50 films and the Broadway stage, died today. He was 96. ..... His daughter-in-law, Beth Morgan, told The Associated Press the actor died at his home in Brentwood after having pneumonia.... "He was side-splittingly funny, a very gentle and loving father-in-law,” Beth Morgan said. "He was very humble about having such a successful career.” ..... Morgan appeared in mostly supporting roles on the big screen, playing opposite such stars as Henry Fonda, John Wayne, James Garner, Elvis Presley and Dan Aykroyd. ..... On television, he was more the comedic co-star, including roles on “December Bride,” its spin-off “Pete and Gladys,” as Sgt. Joe Friday’s loyal partner in later “Dragnet” episodes and on CBS-TV’s long-running “M-A-S-H” series, for which he earned an Emmy award in 1980. ..... Yet acting wasn’t Morgan’s first career choice. ..... Born in Detroit in 1915, Morgan was studying pre-law at the University of Chicago when public speaking classes sparked his interest in the stage. Before long, he was working with a little-theater group in Washington, D.C., followed by a two-year stint on Broadway in the original production of “Golden Boy,” with Karl Malden and Lee J. Cobb. ..... Morgan made his way to Hollywood in 1942 “without any assurance that I would find work,” he said in a 1976 interview with The Associated Press. ..... "I didn’t have enough money to go back East, so I stayed around finding jobs mainly out of friendships.” He signed a contract with 20th Century Fox after a talent scout spotted him in the one-act play, "Hello, Out There.” ..... One of his earliest films was "The Ox Bow Incident” in 1943 with Fonda. Other films included: "High Noon,” “What Price Glory,” “Support Your Local Sheriff,” “The Apple Dumpling Gang” and “The Shootist.” ..... Morgan began his television career in 1954 when the medium was in its infancy. ..... "Television allowed me to kick the Hollywood habit of typing an actor in certain roles,” Morgan said, referring to his typical sidekick or sheriff portrayals on the big screen. ..... In “December Bride,” his first TV series, Morgan played Pete Porter, a perpetually henpecked neighbor. The CBS series lasted from 1954-1959, when he went on to star in his own series, “Pete and Gladys,” a spinoff of “December Bride.” ..... Demonstrating his diversity as a character actor and comedian, Morgan also starred in "The Richard Boone Show,” “Kentucky Jones” and “Dragnet.” ..... But it was his role as Col. Sherman Potter on “M-A-S-H” for which Morgan became best known. ..... "M-A-S-H was so damned good,” Morgan told the AP. “I didn’t think they could keep the level so high.” ..... His acting career didn’t stop after the popular series left the air in 1983 after 11 years — one of television’s most successful primetime runs. Morgan went on to appear in several made-for-TV movies and other television series, such as “AfterMASH” and “Blacke’s Magic.” ..... When he was not on the set, Morgan enjoyed reading books about the legal profession and poetry. He also liked horses, which he once raised on his Northern California ranch. ..... Morgan is survived by three sons, Charles, Paul and Christopher; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. ..... No services have yet been planned.
kmp
-

OK, here's a sad picture. It was posted by Eddie Alderson. It's what the stage that had the set of OLTL looks like now. http://instagr.am/p/X1eq-/
Mike
-

FABULOUS news Diane! Wow, what a weight that must be off of you now. You'll have a great night of sleep tonight!
Mike
-

Great news Diane!!! this has got to be a big relief! A shame it had to get dragged out like this.
Chrisitne
-

Good news for me, everybody. WE WON THE CASE! THANK GOD! My lawyer just called me this morning. I was so scared waiting for the decision, so I am so grateful for this outcome. Now I don't have to live at the beach with a blanket wrapped around me.
Diane
-

I'll have to see more of these flash mob singers -- I find it so fascinating! Goodbye Colonel Potter, Harry Morgan. I really liked him. In 2004, I was helping to host a Democratic political event at someone's nice home where Dennis Kucinich was the speaker for the evening. I sat at a table near the door and checked off the expected guests on a roster and welcomed them to the event. A couple came in, and the man started to give me his name. I said excitedly, "oh, you don't have to give me your name. I know who you are -- Harry Morgan -- Colonel Potter!" He looked at me surprised and said, "Please don't tell me I look THAT old! That's my father -- I'm his son!" Oy. He looked exactly and sounded like his father when his father was just a tad younger. He was a Morgan all right, but he was not Harry Morgan. From then on, I kept my hunches/guesses to myself!
Diane
-

M*A*S*H' star Harry Morgan dies at 96, Dec. 7, 2011, 12:06 PM EST, By Brent Lang ----- "M*A*S*H" star Harry Morgan died at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday morning. The character actor was 96. ----- He was best known for playing Colonel Sherman T. Potter on the long-running army comedy. ----- In a 2004 interview with the The Television Academy Foundation's Archive of American Television, Morgan acknowledged the profound effect that the iconoclastic sitcom had on his career. ----- ""He was firm," Morgan said. "He was a good officer and he had a good sense of humor. I think it's the best part I ever had. I loved playing Colonel Potter." ----- Although "M*A*S*H" made him a television icon, Morgan first came to attention for his role as Officer Bill Gannon, Joe Friday's partner on the revived version of "Dragnet," which aired on NBC from 1967-70. ----- Morgan's gruff demeanor made him an in-demand character actor for nearly five decades. ----- He appeared in supporting roles in over 100 films, many of them classics such as "The Ox-Bow Incident," "High Noon," and "Inherit the Wind." ----- His resonant voice and irascible verve made him a natural for parts as authority figures, and he was frequently called upon to play judges, lawmen and military officers. ----- In addition to "M*A*S*H" and "Dragnet," Morgan scored small screen success playing a henpecked husband on "Pete and Gladys" (1960-62), which originated out of a supporting part he played on "December Bride" (1954-59). ----- Morgan did have one notable off-screen scandal. The character actor was arrested in 1996 and booked for spousal battery after police responded to a 911 call from his wife. Morgan's wife had a cut under her right eye and a swollen foot, according to reports. Charges were dropped after Morgan agreed to attend a six month domestic violence program. ----- Morgan was married to Eileen Detchon for 45 years until her death in 1985. ----- He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bushman; three sons from his first marriage, Christopher, Charles and Paul; and eight grandchildren. ----- Morgan's son, Daniel died in 1989.
LisaG
-

I think this is our first ever flash mob that I'm aware of in our valley. It was professionally recorded and edited (because it was planned) - - and of course it's fun to see a few people we know in it. They even got a special arrangement written by Kurt Bestor and practiced at 7 a.m. several mornings beforehand, so they'd get it right, and in one shot I can see the choreograper, our neighbor's daughter. I love the shot of the conductor, as we know him well. He never does anything halfway. The dancers were from the university, I believe, and the chorus is community and university combined. There's a great flash mob on youtube that was done in a huge Macy's, I think in Minneapolis, with singers at different balconies, with an organ in the background.
Janet
-

Diane, this flash mob from last year is really great. 35 million views since last November. I like it better than most of these as the singing is all live. I do like the one Janet posted too, but I am wondering why they did not go with the live singing in the published video and decided to use a recorded version overdubbed. Takes away from it IMO. Anyway, the flash from last year http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXh7JR9oKVE
Mike
-

LOL! Just started watching the beginning of today's OLTL (Tuesday, 12/6) and so far it's a hoot. About 12 scenes of EVERYONE in Llanview watching a soap (turns out to be Fraternity ROw). It's hilarious. House ridden Clint yeling at the screen. Star going apeshit over something that happens. Everyone at a diner glued to the set. Rex and that blonde bimbo not believing what tey are seeing. Something tells me the rest of a show is a tribute to OLTL's fans and wil lcarry on this way the entire episode with Llanview watching Fraternity Row. It'll of course be on ABC.com in a day or two if anyone not watching/taping OLTL anymore wants to check it out. Now, back to the show....
Mike
-

Janet - That is so cool! So they just do a seemingly-impromptu performance right in the middle of the mall while people are milling around shopping? They just mix in with the crowd and then start singing? Loved the Irish dancing, too! Do they do this flash mob thing every year?
Diane
-

Gosh, Mike, yikes. Our film might be ruined then. We so wish he had taken better care of it since he's the one who took it when my mother sold the house. I'll talk to my sister about getting it from him. Thanks.
Diane
-

OK, you gotta watch this - our own local flash mob. The conductor (you'll see him in a utah state university sweatshirt with a slightly wagging finger) is a friend. I thought they did a wonderful job. http://youtu.be/ZAdDSsnWafY
Janet
-

Diane, one thing to note, a lot of our film, having not been used in a quarter century, had to be cleaned by the guy that did the transfer. That added to the cost, although I do not know how much. Of course some footage was lost because of this. All of our were always in my apartment. Not sure how the hot/cold of your brother's garage effected your film.
Mike
-

Mike - That does sound like a good amount of film and splitting between the 3 of you sounds like it was worth it, like you said. My sister and I would like to find what happened to our old home movies. She thinks my brother probably has them in his garage somewhere but getting him to look for them is like pulling teeth.
Diane
-

Diane, I can't recall for sure how many reels ( was the caretaker but shipped them to my brother in Calif), but I am guessing less than two dozen total. Most were the smaller reels (equal to one roll of film), but several were large reels that we had spliced smaller reels together on. The $1000 was a lot, but we had three of us split the cost. More than worth it.
Mike
-

Mike - Thanks for the look of you hula hooping back in the 60's! How many reels of film did you transfer? My sister and I would love to do that with ours, but wowow, is that expensive.
Diane
-

While I'm at it, one of my fave videos ever on youtube. A fabulous Northern Lights display using still photos taken in HD by a photog in Norway. Watch in full screen if you can and select 720p HD (just left and above the hit counter) . Great music via Lisa Gerrard. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBWPCvdv8Bk
Mike
-

OK, not sure if I ever shared this here before or not. My brothers and I had our family's old 8mm home movies put on DVD about a year ago. Wasn't cheap. 3 DVDs worth and it cost about a grand, but we went high quality. Anyway, here's one of me (at maybe 11 years old) that I played on my computer and filmed with my iPhone to upload to YouTube. I haven't yet tried to figure how to make snippets for direct uploads. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emqjMTmRn2A
Mike
-

RIP, Alan Sues...aka Uncle Al, the kiddie's pal! Thanks for all the laughs! :)
LisaG
-

Wow. Hadn't thought of Alan Sues in probably decades. I'm thinking the 70s or very early 80s. Nice vid of one of his Laugh In pieces http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOBBPoODZFY
Mike
-

Alan Sues of Laugh In fame passed away at the age of 85 on Dec 1... here's a link to the story: http://www.alansues.com/Home.html
Anita
-

I think I'm the only person around who hasn't seen it!
Christine
-

watching "it's a wonderful life"...what a great movie. :)
lisag
-

This is the 3rd one we have held, I think, and everyone seems to look forward to it. Of course it's jut a good excuse to get together with friends, too.
Janet
-

Janet - that sounds like a ton of fun! You could probably also find some interesting stuff at garage sales. One person's garbage is another person's gold...or visa versa if you're going to a white elephant party! :)
LisaG
-

Oh Janet, that is too funny!
christine
-

One year we found some trophies at a thrift store - engraved with other people's names of course, and some of them were for ridiculous achievements. they were a hit. this year we are recycling one of last year's funny gifts, which is always fun. What I really wanted last year was a T shirt from the county jail . . . . maybe tonight! The plaid skirt would be perfect. Especially if a guy got it. One year I found some bodice-ripper romances at the thrift store and wrapped them up and an 80 year old gentleman got them. He wasn't even sure what they were, being a huge fan of Horatio Hornblower.
Janet
-

I had to smile reading this... http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/12/jr-martinez-after-photos-iraq-army-military-sexiest-people
christine
-

Lisa, those are gorgeous!
Christine
-

That's a great way to get rid of stuff you hate! Hey, Diane - you could get rid of that plaid skirt! :D
LisaG
-

Diane: that's about it. Something funny or useless - and then if you choose not to open a present you can take one that's already been opened by another person, and then they have to open another - we have a lot of fun being creative.
Janet
-

If you want a neat side gift to the Kindle, check the site out below...I got my mom the ginko leaf leather cover...beautiful stuff. http://www.oberondesign.com/shop/cart.php?m=&pageNumber=&viewAll=1&c=
LisaG
-

Janet, I also can see the sleds under the tree... oh how simple our gifts were back when I was younger. Now its electronics, many of which are so pricey. I was an only child, so I received a lot of gifts, but I can't think of anything that I would call expensive. Mostly Barbies and accessories. My mom would sometimes buy me clothes, she has great taste so most of the time I LOVED what she got me! To this day she can pick out great things. Her only thing is she thinks I am a size extra small and I try to tell her a large or extra large please.
Christine
-

Lisa - I know what you mean. When I was a teen, my poor mother would buy me things like a long pleated paid skirt. It was the 70's and everyone was wearing jeans so what was I going to do with a skirt like that? It broke her heart that I wanted to return it but I really never could have worn it -- ack, I loathed it, too. She always bought me clothes SHE wanted to see me in that I did not like. But once, when I was 30, she got me a pretty green jacket that I LOVED! I couldn't believe she actually bought me something that I loved so much. But....that was when I had moved out to CA and she wanted me to move back home. Just shows she KNEW what I really like, though.
Diane
-

Janet - I can just picture those boys running out and seeing those 3 bright shiny new red sleds under the tree!! What exactly is a white elephant party? Is that where you bring something from home you don't want and put it in a gift bag and all the other guests to the same? And then everyone gets to pick a bag?
Diane
-

lisag: you wouldn't have any luck with a wish list on amazon? Sounds like your mom will do what she wants to do anyway . . . .
Janet
-

It wasn't really a policy . . just a habit the families had, I think.
Janet
-

Husband's company of 12 attorneys used to have an unspoken policy to exchange small gifts or goodie plates. Family to family. Usually something edible. It really became too much (too tempting to have so many edibles around) so I suggested the firm do one gift to charity instead of doing anything for each other. So they chose Sub for Santa and sent out memos in October so nobody planned on gifts. It's been great. This year our youngest said "we're all broke so why don't we each donate $5 to the university scholarship fund?" He is not broke but his brothers are. A great idea. They will still get filled stockings from mom . . . . fun and useful things, and Darling Granddaughters will of course get some presents. They're the fun ones. We are having a white elephant party tomorrow night and will have a lot of good laughs then. I was just thinking of one Christmas when 3 red sleds were under the tree, and how exited the boys were . . . gift cards to grocery stores (which are all supermarkets these days) are great gifts and we tuck them in wedding cards, too. So useful and people can get what they need.
Janet
-

i have no problem giving or receiving gifts if it's what a person/I want or have asked for. my mom, however, likes to give things that SHE likes us to have. I can't tell you how many chachkas (sp?) i have from her...i usually wind up giving them to good will, because i don't like it or can't use it. she INSISTS on getting me and my sister stuff like that all the time and we try so hard to stop her, but she won't listen. i put stuff on my amazon.com list all the time and she won't buy it because it's not something she likes to give...i'm like huh?! it's what i want or need, so why not get it for me? i give up with her.
lisag
-

I think its fine to still exchange gifts, but maybe just down scale it to something small yet meaningful. Of course, its not for everyone. I still bought my husband a boatload of DVDs this Christmas. And a Sonic Screwdriver from Doctor Who. He has been wanting one for years. I can't wait to see his face when he opens it!
Christine
-

It really is a great idea...Diane E. gave me the idea and this year I asked 2 friends that I normally exchange bday gifts with if they wanted to do the charity thing instead...they LOVED the idea. We still exchange Christmas gifts, which is good because I often find fun things that I know the other person will love, so I can still give it to them.
LisaG
-

I know what you mean. I hate coming up with things I want for Christmas or my birthday. This year my parents are buying me and my husband a Kindle. I asked my dad what he wants and he says "nothing". I managed to come up with a CD and a stuffed sock monkey for my husband to get. I really don't have anything else I want. Usually for my birthday, I have him take me out for dinner. We do give every holiday to charity. He has several he gives to, I donate to a local animal no kill shelter, but I think that is a wonderful idea for a birthday!
christine
-

Donating to a charity in honor of someone's birthday or for Christmas is a great idea. The charity benefits, the honoree doesn't get more "stuff" that they may not need and the donator gets a tax write off! You just get to a certain age or place in life where you really don't need more things, so it's nice to do something for someone else. My mother HATES the idea unfortunately. For my 50th, I asked for NO presents and only donations to charity...most people did it, but my mother still got me "stuff". *sigh*
LisaG
-

I think a donation to a charity in someone's name is wonderful. When my Uncle died from heart disease, my Aunt asked that instead of flowers to please donate to the American Heart Association. I thought that was a wonderful idea.
Christine
-

KMP - That is so sweet! Good for you! When my nephews are older, I would like to ask them what charity they would like me to donate to in their name. I can't wait until that happens. Right now, they are still youths with starry eyes, so.......
Diane
-

I give our neighbor lady who comes over daily & tends to our cat while we're gone, a gift certificate between $25-50 at our local grocery store. Gift certificates are something I normally do not give but I figure one can always use extra grocery money around the holidays, especially if they have family coming home. .....For years now, during the holiday season, my siblings & I have made donations to a charity or organization of our choice in their name. We figure that we all have more things now that we really need.
kmp
-

Diane - thanks for the input. that's nice of you to treat the receiving people.
LisaG
-

Lisa - I think that is a very nice thing to gift your hair dresser. I think that is a nice amount for a Christmas gift. I give our two people who work in the receiving dept at work $25 each every year because I have to get my personal shipments sent to work. So, for that extra work for me personally, I give them that gift.
Diane
-

I enjoy gambling but I don't like to go to the riverboats out here because that is all there is. I am a small $ gambler. I allot myself a certain amount of money and play mostly for fun. Sure its nice to win, but I play more for the enjoyment. I don't do tables, only machines. I will pay nickel or dime slots to stretch my $20 and just have fun with it. Once I went to the riverboat in Joliet and was absolutely boared as that was all there was. At least in Vegas I can play a few bucks and then go for a walk and sightsee, or get some yummy snacks to eat. I did win $500 once (on a quarter) and right away considered that "treat" money, put it away and brought it home.
Christine
-

I guess Celine is back, and Elton John is coming. They host some huge conventions such as home shows, etc. which are very popular. low vibe? I think it's a loud vibe and hard to escape. Everywhere you go there is piped in music (they started with some awful Christmas stuff)and the constant jarring jingle of the slots. So short trips with a quiet hotel room for escape work for me. The Cirque de Soleil acts are terrific. We saw the "ka" one last year which is genghis-khan themed (I think - lots of warfare, etc.) special effects up the wazoo but I'm sure I would have liked one of their other shows better. We saw Donny and Marie last spring and they are fabulous. She's a hoot with the audience and he never misses a beat - when something goes wrong or she misses a cue he cracks a joke, says "sing, Marie!" and off they go. When she lost her voice he did a one-man show, even donning her costume and singing Paper Roses. Such seasoned professionals. That's about all they've known all their lives. We may go to Vegas in March if our school plays in the WAC tourney. That's a fun trip to take with friends, though there isn't time to take in a show. I don't know how people can actually work on the strip - they must be able to compartmentalize very well, or shut out the constant noise . . . Oh, I saw a blackjack dealer urging people to come to his table . . . he was a drag queen dressed as Tina Turner. He turned and gave me a wink. When Jeff (#3) was there for New Years with friends, they somehow got a fabulous suite in the Trump Tower and the only card games were the ones they played in the suite - - for pennies. No casinos. They got standing-room tickets for one club and when the folks left their $15,000 table near the front, the waiter let them just sit there at the pricey table and enjoy the rest of the evening for free. Somehow they got a lot of perks free and had a blast together and nobody was interested in gambling. And at the airport when you go thru security there are some very funny videos that explain the screening - done by magicians, celebrity impersonators, you name it. Very entertaining. Nice to be home where it's quiet, though.
Janet
-

Oh and the Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center is tomorrow night at 8pm ET.
LisaG
-

Oh and head's up! Rudolph is on CBS right now, 8pm!
Lisa G
-

Question for you guys...I tried to do a little research on this online, but so many sites have different guidelines, so I thought I'd ask real people. :) Every year, I give my hairdresser a Christmas gift of cash...she does all the work (wash, color, cut, blow dry), but all in her home...no salon. I give her $30, which is a bit more than double of a single visit tip. Do you think that's too much or not enough?
LisaG
-

I also get VERY bored with gambling...my sister and her housemate go to casinos every year in Albuquerque. I met them after my hiking trip last Sept and spent a couple of hours with them in the non-smoking slot rooms...what a snooze fest. I'd rather go to the show and the restaurants. When I went on my Grand Canyon hiking trip, we met the tour company in Las Vegas and after the hike was over I stayed a few more days and took in 2 Cirque du Soleil shows...that was the best part of Vegas...the rest was awful.
LisaG
-

Janet - I feel the same way about gambling. The sounds and lights and smells of a casino make me sick. I detest the low vibe. I went there only once when I was 23 and never wanted to return BUT I totally agree that their shows are the best. I'm sure I would probably like a lot about Vegas if I had seen more than casinos when I was there.
Diane
-

We stayed at the Aria. Gambling has never interested me in the least. And I hate the cigarette smoke, though I think as a new hotel it must have a good air filtration system as it wasn't too bad. I hate walking through casinos to get anywhere. The constant noise and all the lights and losing track of day/night are all issues, too. Even the airport has noisy slot machines. I had an audio book at the airport so it helped with the noise.
Janet
-

Cat - That's a healthy way to think of Thanksgiving --- being grateful for the meal, and that's what it's supposed to be all about.
Diane
-

Cat, its just a tradition, family all together etc... for me its not just family but its about eating turkey, stuffing and all the other goodies! It is the one time a year that all the goodies come out and you can stuff yourself. My stomach loves the holiday. Even if I were gone somewhere, I would want to eat that.
Christine
-

I wonder why people get all rigid about how things ar done on Thanksgiving? I'm always grateful to get a meal. I understand that it's a lot of work to get everything together, and when people who aren't together much get together, personalities and past history can flare up. I just find the whole thing can be so stressful, it defeats the purpose.
Cat
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Janet, where did you stay? I do agree, Vegas is more then just gambling. That is still the big draw, but one can spend hours (or days) just wandering around the casinos and malls, without spending much... just looking and taking pictures is enough. I always love walking around the Venetian. It is so breathtaking.
Christine
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lisa: very inventive. Such funny pictures.
Janet
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Yeah, just Mr. J and me in Vegas. It's not a long flight and we got a great hotel package with Delta. I'm not sure why, for 20 years I'd wince at the thought of Vegas - everything so tacky and fake and noisy, etc. but of course it's changed a great deal over time and the quality of the entertainment (in most cases) is top notch. And the malls, good heavens, as exclusive as I've ever seen. Beautiful Christmas decorations went up as we were there. I don't own anything by Gucci or Tiffany, but you can certainly get top of the line in Vegas if you like. Christine, we planned a trip to Chicago once in December just to see downtown decorated. It's such a beautiful and classy city. We loved living there for 3 years as grad students. We didn't have kids yet so we didn't have to deal with a lot of issues. Just living in a small apartment and going to school.
Janet
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Puck: Or you could write it as Ibsen. Were you "thirteen at supper?" He could make it sufficiently dreary and dark . . . . or Faulkner could have done a splendid very dark play based on your family dinner. I'm just glad you survived it.
Janet
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Puck: could everybody end up dead on the stage, as in Hamlet? Really, your dinner is an absolute classic. I've never ever had one even one tenth as dramatic as you describe. Bestly dull, I guess you'd say, in comparison. Is it because of the southern thing ? (?) Last summer and fall's festival included Midsummer, Music Man, Richard 111, Glass Menagerie, Romeo and Juliet, Noises off, Winter's Tale, and Dial M for Murder. I had seen everything before but that doesn't keep me away. My least favorite was R and J because I felt it was a bit rushed. Not a moment at the masquerade ball to even take a breath and really look at each other - to let time stand still for a moment - - before the funeral plans are necessary, and an athletic balcony scene where Juliet just bounced from one side of the balcony to the other, while Romeo never even tried to climb up the trellis. What fun is that? In The Winter's Tale they did indeed have a very good bear actor (evidently back in the day they had a bear in the company as a pet so when Shakespeare wrote the play, he worked the bear in-- not logical at all, but - "exits and is eaten by a bear"). I've often wondered about that. Now I know. It was really a splendid production and set in pre and post WW1. I'm not often a fan of Shakespeare being set in other times or places, but this was terrific. I'd seen such a bad production a few years ago it was really a pleasure. I think next year's festival's coffers just went ca-chink when they got the rights to Les Mis. It should be a big favorite. Interesting, just before 9-11, they'd almost reached fundraising goals for a new theater, etc. But 9-11 set them back nearly 10 years in their long range plans. I'm sure that happened to many businesses just because of that one event.
Janet
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ROTFLOL!! For those of you looking to buy a gift for the person who has everything... http://carlashes.com/
LisaG
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Janet -- I always eagerly await your report of the Shakes Festival. Hope you two have a great time!
Puck
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I think so long as MIL is alive, we are stuck in this pattern. Janet, love the idea of a play! But Act 3 would have to be more Sartre-esque....maybe James Joyce, or Thomas Wolfe.
Puck
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Janet, Vegas? I could see that. If it would be just the two of you, why not? As long as you are having fun!
Christine
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Oy, Puck. Wouldn't it be easier to just eat at home next year? It couldn't be worse, huh? Just you and Sweetie and the dog(s).
Diane
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Wahoo! Utah's Shakespeare Festival has obtained the rights to present Les Mis this summer. That should be a crowd-pleaser. I'm looking forward to that. I never tire of it . . . .. oh, and on pbs sometime this week is a group called Human Nature in concert. They're a great group - we saw them Sat. night. You will see lots of Motown and great dancing - and they are 4 Aussies! So if you do see that in your pbs listings, you're in for a treat. Gorgeous voices and super choreography.
Janet
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Oh, Puck, that could be written into a play. First act: the planning. 2nd act: the dinner. 3rd act Each character reflects deeply on his/her life and vows that life is too short and they'll never spend Thanksgiving that way again. Of course they don't have anything to take its place, but . . . . Mr. J and I skipped Thanksgiving, sort of, and went to . . . Vegas. We ate at a great buffet (so crowded, it was crazy) and saw 4 shows.......... I highly recommend Jersey Boys. As soon as we saw a scene from it on the Tony Awards show we knew we'd try to see it sometime. Other than the language (blech) it is an uplifting story, and of course the music is worth it all. Since I cooked a turkey and the modest fixings about 10 days ago, we had the leftovers for a while, too. Whatever floats your boat . . . . none of the boys came home so we just played for a few days. Beautiful weather, too.
Janet
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Puck - what a nightmare! there's something to be said in favor of small families (like mine...me, my sister and the mom-ster) and also about people living too far away to visit! ;)
lisag
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Oh Puck, what a holiday!
Christine
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Diane, I make thinly sliced chicken breast rolls with stuffing inside and also a faux pot pie with stuffing instead of dough. Neither is fancy but I love both.
christine
-

The long and the short of it is that they are old and less mobile, and thus they are losing power and control -- meal was not at their preferred time, nor at their preferred location, nor consisting of their preferred familial mix of people. And why Sister decided that the communal dressing platter had to be soaked in gravy is a new wrinkle -- perhaps she was so angry she decided to control SOMETHING...ANYTHING!!!! Then MIL made the rest of the day miserable for the rest of us, with petty demands, with favoritism (Middle Sister was not present when she needed to go to the bathroom, so Older Sister and I handled it, but she's mad at OS, so I became the favorite, until OS provided her painkillers, then she was the favorite). Sigh.....................
Puck
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Thanksgiving was godawful, on so many levels. UGH! Okay, so, MIL had to have an amputation of her leg, so she's being hauled around in a wheelchair. And normally her sister (who lives next door) hosts TG at her house, but she's been overwhelmed with her son going into a nursing home (stroke during a surgery), and her hubby is slowing down badly. So, their first cousin (20 years younger than them), who owns the Ancestral Home (a large four-over-four fully restored, all except the separate kitchen behind the house). It was a perfect solution........................UNTIL!!! -- Cousin decided to invite two friends from Key West, where he and his partner were staying before coming to town, and Partner's niece, plus three or four others from town who are friends of everybody. Well, MIL hit the roof, and threw the biggest hissy fit -- TG is for FAMILY ONLY!! (never mind that her best friend from childhood is invited every year, and was here this year as well), and not for strangers to come, or townspeople to come traipsing in, etc. ANNNND -- highest crime of the day -- they served at 2:30!!!! Not noon!!!! Well, between MIL and Sister, we got a double helping of octogenarian hissy fit-ing, with dire threats that they would eat at noon, dire threats that NEVER AGAIN would this arrangement be allowed in future, etc. When none of us kids stood with them, they grudgingly gave in................................................... It was DELIGHTFUL! The day was cool enough to open the entire house. Some ate in the formal dining room, some ate in the outdoor kitchen, me and Sweetie and Partner ate at a picnic table in the breezeway between the two, caught all of the breeze, and enjoyed Sweetie's reminisces about sitting at that table to eat watermelon every summer with Other Momma was alive (this is MIL and Sister's grandmother, who died about 17 years ago age 105). ................................................... But there were more ill moments with MIL and Sister. Sister has always done most of the cooking (usually days or weeks ahead of time), and she started acting very bizarrely about the food. For example, she cut the dressing into squares and piled them on the plate (as usual), next to the gravy boat so people can coat it in gravy (as usual). what was NOT usual was that she insisted the gravy had to go on the platter! She soaked the pile of dressing squares so badly that the bottom later was a solid mass of mush that no one would touch. And when they decided to leave early, they interrupted the socializing by demanding back their dishes and serving spoons at once, instead of waiting for when we did the dishes later. Sigh......................
Puck
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Christine - What do you stuff? I see recipes to stuff all kinds of things -- tomatoes, eggplants, squash.....oh no, now I'm hungry.
Diane
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I make stuffing year around.
Christine
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You don't even need the turkey to make stuffing. I have no trouble making it without a turkey and the people I serve it to always rave about it. I put hazelnuts, mushrooms, celery, etc. in it.
Diane
-

We are going to make turkey etc... for Christmas!
Christine
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oh man...i can't imagine thanksgiving without leftovers! well, you can always make a small turkey for yourself if you really get to craving stuffing and such.
lisag
-

That is the bad thing for us. We went out to my cousins and had no leftovers :-(
christine
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Oh yeah...and tonight, the leftovers were even better! :P
LisaG
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Lisa, I take it you were "stuffed" last night?
Christine
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*BURP!* Man, that was good stuffing! ;)
LisaG
-

Here is an interview with Hillary B. Smith (Nora): http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/11/23/one-life-to-live-actor-on-shows-online-demise/
kmp
-

Great post by KDP. Thanks for posting it, Mike. It just chills me so much to hear that em they all received that if they didn't completely clear out by 12/9, their stuff would be thrown out. How RUDE and COLD is that??!! After so many years of these amazing actors giving it their all and making money for ABC, to be treated like that. That's why I do NOT trust the media any longer. It has another agenda, and it's not for the good of the people. They are doing high-stakes gambling like they do on Wall Street and don't give a twit who suffers because of it. SHAME SHAME SHAME.
Diane
-

I am sure it will be wonderful.
Christine
-

Stopping by to say Happy Thanksgiving to all my GB peeps. Watching the parade and getting the stuffing ready. Did most of the prep yesterday so I can sort of kick back today. Used a homemade brine for my turkey. Fingers crossed it turns out. Have a wonderful day everyone!
rebecca
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I read that someone would die adn that Matthew would awaken. Now I'm not sure what they meant by that. I really thought it was effective though. I am going to miss this show. I didn't always watch it, but I knew I could always go home to Llanview.
Christine
-

Post by KDP on her Facebook_____Words just don't express how sad I am at hearing that Prospect Park has dropped the deal to move forward with "One Life". I think what upsets me the most is how this whole deal has been handled from the get go. I wanted more than anything not to have been cancelled by ABC. I find it mind boggling that a company can spend 45 years building the strongest brand in daytime... launch a cable network to support it and then decide to cancel both broadcast and cable airings leaving the beloved fans with no where to turn for that brand. Then PP shows up out of nowhere as the great white hope promising to continue these shows.... I was happy to sign on. I love what I do and I'm proud to go to work everyday. I was asked to take a cut in pay and was happy to do it if it meant our show would go on. That was the first week of September. But other than a very quick speech on the studio floor by PP in late September the company did not give out any information regarding when and where we would be working. Last Wednesday the cast received an email telling us our dressing rooms must be cleared out by the 9th of Dec. or ABC would be tossing things out... and then to hear the official news today via a media report.____________The last 2 weeks have been emotional for me. The stories are rocking and show is so good. It is must see TV. Don't miss a day... don't miss a scene. My hat goes off to Ron Calivarti.... he has written really powerful stuff and I think the fans are going love it. I especially want to shout out to Frank Valentini... who has fought the hardest to make the transition happen. He has been amazing and I want you fans to know how hard he worked to continue giving you fans the show you deserve. He found out this wasn't going to happen just like I did...via a media report.____________Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I have so much to be grateful for but I must say I wish things had worked out differently. It's been the best 18 years of my life. I hope you will continue to watch "One Life" until the bitter sweet end.
Mike
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Yeah, here's the article from EW confirming the rumors that have been flying for about 2 weeks now. http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/11/23/plans-killed-to-take-one-life-to-life-and-all-my-children-online/
Mike (and Happy Thanksgiving everyone!)
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Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, too!
Diane
-

Oh no, really??!! They are not picking up OLTL?! I thought that was a done deal! What happened? Oh, and Matthew died? CAT - I know what you mean. Llanview was a part of my world since I was 10.
Diane
-

I think Bergeron was sad to see him go, too. Said something about how he'd miss the zaniness Carson would have continued to bring to the show.
Janet
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Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Christine - I'm sad, too, about no online versions. The whole thing is just too bad. And watching today's show, I wasn't prepared for Matthew to die. I hope it's a cliffhanger, but it might not be. I know it's a soap, but it's just too sad. It's been part of my daily life pretty much since college. Hard to believe, but there you are. What a shame ABC took that decision, but corporations are all about money, and it was money driving the deal.
Cat
-

Well it looks like AMC and OL will not be continuing online. Prospect Park will not be broadcasting both shows. OL will be gone forever! What will I do without Llanview??
Christine
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I found Carson alot of fun and he was very gracious to come on at the last minute even though, and he acknowledges that often, who livened up the show.
Christine
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I found Carson far more entertaining than I imagine O' Neal would be. Plus, O Neal is not coming across as Daddy of the Year. I'd rather see somebody else. And they say Pee Wee Herman is a possibility, that he attends a lot of the live shows . . . . .ewwwwwwww. They can find some classier people. Look what it does for careers! I'd think a lot of celebrities would like the air time.
Janet
-

Ever used problem-solving "chats" with service representatives to solve problems? These are online text chats . . . last night they helped me with my email and today with my cell phone account. Plus you can print the transcript. Very convenient.
Janet
-

Carson was a last minute replacement for Ryan from what I read. Rob K. improved dramatically over the course of the show. I thought he was deserving of 3rd place. Ricki was fantastic, but I sense there was a bit of backlash for Derek. I have read that one many a board. I was thrilled with JR winning. He had the background, the story and the moves to go with it. WAs he always perfect? No. But I thought when he was on he was 100% on.
Christine
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One would have thought the popular vote would have kept Ricki and Derek in the top 2. Rob did grow up a lot. The first couple of weeks he was kind of immature but Cheryl wouldn't put up with it. He really made progress. Now let's see . . . he graduated from USC (he mentioned it 20 times) but what was his major and does he have any kind of a job? How much FACE TIME did the Kardashian family get? That ws so over the top. I enjoyed Chaz, Laci and her dad - that was a hoot of a dance. And good for Chynna Phillips - getting it right this time. They played her mistake so many times! Poor thing, she was just traumatized when it happened. Nice that she got it right!
Janet
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Karina worked her heart out - that lift was incredible - and JR was great. Technically, the last couple of weeks he's not been perfect, but I felt that overall he was certainly deserving. And now he's been named one of the sexiest men alive - - - how cool. I honestly thought Ricki's level of technical performance was incredible - flawless - - that tango was awesome. Everybody seemed to be a good sport (at least in the top 3). Rumor has it that Ryan O Neal was going to be on season 13 but pulled out in advance due to injury. However, he's got a nasty feud going with Nancy Grace (imagine that). I don't see him as much of a dancer OR as being very teachable. I was impressed that Nancy could keep her mouth shut and accept criticism though she was hard on her partner!
Janet
-

I had tears in my eyes when he won.
Christine
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May everyone have a very SAFE and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
kmp
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Just watched my recording so can I spoil???? YAYYAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!! Karina and JR won!!!! Yes, super-shocked at Ricki. That was very weird.
Puck
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Janet, I agree about DWTS.
Christine
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since i'll be spending most of my time tomorrow, cleaning the house for the mom-ster who arrives thursday, i wanted to wish you all a very happy and safe thanksgiving. hope you all get to enjoy some fun time with family and friends! :)
lisag
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Anybody see the finals of DWTS? To avoid spoilers, I was surprised at 3rd place, happy with first.
Janet
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I got online with comcast and should be OK. It doesn't appear that the emails harmed anyone else's computers. That's what I really fear - not just sending junk but unknowingly sending something damaging. I now have a new password.
Janet
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Lisa - It can just happen with an e-mail account. A Gmail and Yahoo account is very vulnerable to that as I've heard of a couple cases where it has happened. I'm trying to switch to a GMX account.
Diane
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yet another reason i will never join an online social network.
lisag
-

That seems to be happening to alot of my FB friends. So far my account is okay, but I'm keeping an eye out.
Christine
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Holy cow, I've been hacked. Please ignore emails from me and do not click on the link. Hope to get it fixed tomorrow.
Janet
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Pictures from the OLTL Wrap Party http://platzer-twinimages.photoshelter.com/gallery/One-Life-To-Live-Wrap-Party-Nov-18-2011/G0000QbiuZKecJBY/0/1
Mike
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I just checked and I do!
Christine
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Thanks.... I hope I have the day off.
Christine
-

Christine, believe it or not, OLTL's last day on ABC is....Friday the 13th in January.
Mike
-

When is OL's official last day on TV??
Christine
-

Thanks Mike!
Christine
-

Article and pics about the last day of taping at ABC for OLTL. http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/11/18/one-life-to-live-exclusive-final-taping-abc/
Mike
-

Diane, yes we do... he had the right idea!
Christine
-

Viggo was a big Dennis Kucinich supporter, so he's OK in my book!
Diane
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Although.....VISUALIZING is supposed to be very effective if you do it with a strong enough will! I suppose we'll be hearing about a new dinner date for Lisa soon. :)
Diane
-

LOL! I think the person has to "out of the blue" pop into your mind because that's your intuition telling you it's going to happen. LOL! It's so neat, though, isn't it? CHRISTINE - It's so scary what was considered commonplace and no-big-deal when we were kids, huh? I remember I had a girl in my 5th grade class who I had never had in my class before. I was surprised to see all the kids act like she had cooties and would go "ew, run away it's Lisa" when she would just quietly walk into the room. I couldn't figure out why. Apparently, neither could our 5th grade teacher so, one day, he asked Lisa to go to the library because the librarian looked like she could use her help. Lisa often worked in the library helping out so this wasn't unusual. She was a very smart girl. When Lisa was gone, the teacher confronted the class and said he noticed their behavior and he thought he would observe to see why this behavior was going on -- but he said he saw NO REASON why they were behaving like this towards Lisa. Everyone got quiet and then one kid said, "well, in first grade, she used to put her hair over her face and say she was a monster". That was it. Mr. Bates said, "That's it???!!!! For something she did as a little kid 4 years ago you are still not letting her forget it?!!" He then told everyone the behavior was to STOP immediately and if he ever caught one student acting that way again, they would heard from him and also - it was major homework essay time (which everyone hated!!!) I knew Lisa until 12th grade, and I never witnessed her being teased or taunted again. We need more teachers like Mr. Bates all over this country, I think.
Diane
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Bakc when I was a kid, bullying wasn't seen as an issue as it is now. that is why I am surprised when I hear about cases where it has been allowed to happen for so long.
Christine
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Lisa, I'll try that with Johnny Depp!
Christine
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Ok, this is really super spooky. During my 5 hour dinner with Diane C., we of course talked a bit about the guestbook and I told her there were still several of us around and posting. I also mentioned that I was wondering how Jennifer in Boston was doing because we hadn't heard from her in years. Well, today I get an invitation on my Linked In account from, guess who?! Yep, Jennifer! Looks like she's doing really well as a print artist now. This kind of thing happens to be ALL the time...out of the blue, I think of someone I haven't seen in a long long time and then BAM! I hear from them or something about them...very other wordly. Gee, maybe if I constantly think about Viggo Mortensen, I'll meet up with him somehow! ;D
LisaG
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Lisa - LOL! I can see the both of you doing that!!
Diane
-

Also -- bullying is bad karma. The soul inside everyone is perfect. Some people who are adults and lived through that as a child want to tell all these children that it DOES end and life does get better. And they need to realize that it's the bully with the problem. There is nothing wrong with child being picked upon. If I were a principal, I would have zero tolerance for it. I would order counseling for both parties for awhile and then have counseling sessions together so they can see each other for the people they are with no peer pressure around.
Diane
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Diane - Yeah, just about! Diane said next time we should meet for breakfast and just keep going through lunch and dinner! :)
LisaG
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Lisa - 5 HOURS???????????????????????? You were probably there for the waiter's whole shift! LOL!
Diane
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Hi all...just got back from a FIVE HOUR dinner with Diane C. :) A new record! She looks fantastic, as always, and we probably could have talked for hours more. Amazing how you can not see someone for a year and then pick up as if no time has lapsed. She says "hi" to everyone here.
Lisag
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Woops - I meant KMP! Not just KP!
Diane
-

KP - Interesting theory about her death. Seems pharmaceuticals are still poisoning people these days.
Diane
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Uck, I get so disgusted reading that article, Christine. No one helped that child and that is the same thing as looking the other way when a child comes IN to school with bruises. Their bullying policy is so severely inadequate and sucks period. Their policy is for the child to tell the bully to stop (yeah, that always works, yeesh), if it doesn't stop -- walk away (another thing that really works NOT!). These are probably the same people that tell women just to "walk away" from a rapist. Anyway, their 3rd step is to "tell the teacher". These teachers told her she was a tattle-tale. These teachers need to be hauled into court for doing this. Apparently this bullying has been allowed at this school for a long time as her 19 year-old brother was also bullied there when he was a child and suffered a deep depression from it. There was NOTHING the matter with this little girl as there is NOTHING wrong with any child who the kids decide to pick on. She has a huge heart and saved all the strays. She wanted to be a veterinarian one day. We NEED people like her in this world and less of those bullies. My nephews never bullied another child and were upset if they ever saw another kid doing that to someone. So I think there is a lack of character in these children -- I don't know their home lives so maybe that's where this starts. My sister also taught my nephews CONSIDERATION for other people from the time they were tots and that stuck.
Diane
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There was a reunion between a bully and victim on one of those morning shows once. The young woman was bullied badly by the girls in her school -- similar names to the ones Christine was called. She cried at home all the time. As a young adult, she wanted to confront one of the bullies, and that woman came to the studio for the reunion. The victim told the bully to her face about what she had done to her, and the bully started to cry. The bully apologized profusely for causing that kind of pain to her and told her that she remembered in school being afraid of being bullied herself. So she joined in those doing the bullying so she would not be a victim, and she was so sorry she did that. This woman had also gained a lot of weight. The two women became very good friends after that show and became very close realizing how alike they were inside.
Diane
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Christine - Oh, my heart breaks for you and every other child who goes through this. Adults need to pay more attention to this and not allow this to happen. I liked a teacher's lesson to her students and she teaches her students every year. They have a piece of paper. That paper represents another child and to notice how smooth the paper is. They are then told to crumble up that paper and put it on the floor and step on it, etc. Then they are told to pick up the paper and try and get the wrinkles out. The teachers show them that the paper is forever changed and cannot be made smooth again because the wrinkles from the 'abuse' remain with that child throughout their life. The observer to this lesson said she could tell the kids 'got the lesson' by the looks on their faces. THAT is what is needed to be taught to all children from the earliest age.
Diane
-

I don't usually watch the show, but might tune in for the last one. Did they name a replacement yet?
Christine
-

11/16/2011 - DVR/TIVO alert if anyone hasn't been tuned in. Thursday and Friday are Regis' last two shows, then he's gone to Retirement Village.
Mike
-

A very sad story. I was bullied growing up, especially in elementary and middle school. It was never physical, but I was made fun of, called fat, called dog... you name it.... oddly enough most of the kids who were mean to me are really nice to me now. Alot of them are fat themselves! HA! And many have their own troubles....I thank God for my friends, Debbie and Judy, who were my rocks! _________________________ http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-funeral-today-for-girl-10-whose-family-says-killed-herself-because-of-bullying-20111116,0,3663336.story
Christine
-

An interesting article on what may have caused Jane Austin's death: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/upshot/theory-death-jane-austen-215024956.html
kmp
-

Anita - Really? Ack, who started that rumor!
Diane
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I don't see her having a baby at this point... I think she is too busy and knows she is too old (not that she is OLD per say)
Christine
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http://www.gossipcop.com/michelle-obama-pregnant-november-2011-third-baby-child-first-lady-rumor/ not true Diane, an internet rumor..
Anita
-

Rebecca -- LOL! I love that version, too, even though the age disparity between Emma and Knightley is curtailed too much. The book has one of the first instances (in the English language) of women watching a man's body, and includes sexually suggestive language (more suggestive in the modern era perhaps) -- this line is during that same dance you mention -- "He could not have appeared to greater advantage perhaps anywhere, than where he had placed himself. His tall, firm, upright figure, among the bulky forms and stooping shoulders of the elderly men, was such as Emma felt must draw every body's eyes; and, excepting her own partner, there was not one among the whole row of young men who could be compared with him.--He moved a few steps nearer, and those few steps were enough to prove in how gentlemanlike a manner, with what natural grace, he must have danced, would he but take the trouble." -- tall, firm, upright indeed!
Puck
-

WOW, if that's true, I hope it gives him a boost for the 2012 election! I know, it's bad to think of a child as a political plus, but when others think of it so, how can we not?
Puck
-

I read that Michelle Obama is pregnant and expecting their third child. She's 48!!! Yikes, I can't imagine having a baby at that age. Best wishes for both of them. Hoping this little one will be a leader for the PEOPLE one day -- and not the corporations!
Diane
-

Diane; it's so hard seeing her walk into walls, etc. At least she's not going fast so she doesn't get hurt. She is still very affectionate. I am trying to make her final months as comfortable as possible but after 17 years - you all know how attached we get to our pets. We still have Lita, who's about 11 - border collie mix. I think she would be Ok as an only dog . . .
Janet
-

So great to hear these oils are helping people's eye problems! Amazing. JANET - I guess Chevy enjoys her quiet life right now knowing she is safe in your home. She probably also enjoys your light touch knowing you are there. At least she still has her sense of smell as I've heard that is their main sense they rely upon.
Diane
-

Ugh, I meant NEXT fall on the show taking the General Hospital time slot. I read below some taking Flaxseed Oil. I've been dropping two 1000mg softgels a day to aid in an eyelid problem I've been cursed with the last several years. Knock on wood (Mike rapping his skull right now) it's been working for me for at least a year now!
Mike @ 11/14, 2011 A.D. 5:00am
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Uh, make that "mighty red"
Janet
-

There is a Might Red form (something like that) of fish oil that does not taste fishy. I have found Omega -3 Krill Oil 300 mg at Walgreen's. It's their house brand. I give the smellly old caps to the dogs and they crunch them right up. Congrats on the new pets, Anita! They are in for a splendid life with your family. My chevy is 17 now, deaf and blind, but still has a pretty good quality of life. it's so hard to see her decline, but the vet and I are watching her carefully.
Janet
-

My dog, Paco, was supposed to be mine. I really think he despised me, but he LOVED my dad!
Christine
-

Good for you--- boycott ABC, Anita, if you've had it with them. I boycott all TV now but do watch old sitcoms on DVD and some old dramas like Dr. Quinn and swoon-worthly Joe Lando. I kind of really like that idea of combining AMC and OLTL! Maybe we could move the towns even closer together. Good idea.
Diane
-

Anita - Maybe if Lizzie first promises to take care of 'her dog' and proves her sincerity in that promise, maybe that would be the time for her to get one. I was only 3 yrs old when my parent's dog had puppies (it was the 60's - oy), and they decided to keep the littlest mutt. I used to wear my cowgil outfit and rock my puppy to sleep after she ate -- which, of course, made her throw up! What a dopey kid I was. Anyway, I made her mine since she was a puppy. I have to admit, there were many times when my mother called to me saying, "Diane, will you PLEASE take care of YOUR DOG?!" I loved that dog so much but just needed the reminder that my dog needed something so then I would go and feed her or whatever she needed. Thankfully, in those days, the dog could just be let out the door in that part of the country so I didn't have to walk her until I got to be a teen and dogs had to be on leashes because too many homes were built around us. But a dog might make Lizzie grow up a bit faster if she realizes the dog is her responsibility since she had to wait to get him/her. Maybe watching Katie be responsible for the new dog for awhile might be the coaching she needs.
Diane
-

The Chew? What is that? Never seen it? lol!
Christine
-

Sad to read that AMC is being shelved but I'm not surprised. Would be interesting if they combined the 2 shows into one? Pine Valley and Llanview are close to each other and the characters used to cross over from time to time. Would be a good way to save both shows if they don't get enough to sign on with either. I refuse to watch the Chew.. and anything else ABC puts on during the day. Real shame to be losing OLTL too because it's been really good the past few months too...I'm going to miss it. if they cancel GH too then no more ABC for me. I've been watching Y&R and like it. it moves pretty well and the characters are interesting.
Anita
-

Diane, we discussed getting a dog for Lizzie too but that would be a 4th dog.. so we're waiting till Lizzie is a bit older and bit more responsible. She's your typical kid and kind of a mess :) LOL! And thanks for the kind words. We love our new dogs Molly and Princess.. and don't mind that they are 12 .. these little ones can live a long time, some as long at 18 or 19 years. While not typical we still think we have quite a few years left with them.. 16 or 17 is not uncommon in toy poodles. And they are healthy. Lily is 7 and also a small do so she is only at her mid point too. And yes, she's been at the foster home for 6 months already. I'm sure it's her age that had a lot to do with her not getting adopted sooner. Sad. Just like kids, everyone wants babies, yet there are so many out there that need homes and still have so much love to give. Really thankful for the rescue folks that get these dogs..they do amazing work.
Anita
-

Mike - I think corporate American is signing its own death warrant and hurray for that demise. ABC and the other mainstream media outlets are making horrible decisions and only thinking of getting richer and not caring about what their viewers want. The banks did the same thing and now look. 700,000 people transferred their money from the big banks to the credit unions in the past month. What is more insane is that the banks are calling to have people arrested when too many of them come in at one time to withdraw their money. Citibank wanted a man arrested outside on the sidewalk who was handing out leaflets about the ill-dealings of Citibank. When the cop came, he told the bank president "As long as he is not impeding traffic or physically impeding your business, he has the right to stand out there and hand out leaflets." And he followed with this gem, "It's free speech! If you don't like free speech, leave the country! And don't call me back again unless he's doing something illegal!"
Diane
-

Anita - Lily really looks like she loves Katie. She looks so bonded to her already. Are you still going for a third so Lizzie has her own, too? I remember how happy I was to have my own dog as a child. My job was to feed her (and play with her, which I loved!). Trouble was that she got to where she would ONLY eat if I fed her so my mother was at home fretting waiting for me to get home so my dog would eat. Bless you for adopting the older dogs and slightly older dogs. When I was in rescue, everyone wanted a dog less than 2 years old. A 5 year old dog waited and waited for a home getting older each year until finally FINALLY an angel came along and gave them the best home. I also prefer the older and slightly older cats because the kitten behavior is not something I'm a fan of. The slightly older ones and older ones are also SO grateful for the home because they know you rescued them.
Diane
-

This is pretty funny to watch...but for a good cause. DUBUQUE, Iowa - The owner of a T-shirt store said he would take on the challenge of beating a world record and he finally did it. Tom Rauen from Dubuque spent Friday night putting on t-shirt and t-shirt until he wore 247 of them. http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/Dubuque-Man-Beats-World-Record-133739758.html
LisaG
-

Soap news I just read. It seems that due to lack of All My Children actors signing with Propsect Park, they've decided to shelve AMC for now and focus on AOLTL. Also, ABC has announced a new show starting this fall in the 3:00pm ET time slot presently occupied by General Hospital. Yet, they have not announced a cancelation of GH. Speculation is they may be waiting to see how OLTLs replacement and The Chew do in ratings and if either tanks, GH moves to that slot -OR- gets shown the door if the new shows do well enough.
Mike
-

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a261/anitastreet/molly%20and%20polly/2011_11_08thankful.jpg -------------------- you know I never told you all we lost our sweet Susie poodle earlier this year.. It was a very sad time.....she had kidney disease and I had been giving her subcutaneous fluids at home every other day.. she did great for almost a year but started going downhill in mid September.. we just couldn't keep her kidneys flushed anymore.. we said our goodbyes on 9/23/11....but we had been in the process of finding another dog to add to our home before she took a turn for the worse.. we had always had 2 and it had been over a year since we lost Sasha to lymphoma.. so I found a pair of toy poodles.. they were bonded and really needed to stay together.. the rescue said they were 7 years old.. we decided to go through with the adoption after Susie was gone and brought them home on Oct 8.. they are however MUCH older.. our vet says they are at least 12.. but that's okay, we love them to pieces and they are a very healthy 12, strong hearts, clear lungs.. but we really wanted a dog the girls could play with too.. and two senior toy poodle at 5lbs each really don't fit that bill.. so we are bringing home a 3rd next week.. her name is Lily and she is a Chinese Crested Powder Puff.. she is 7 years old (and yes, we know that for a fact, have her birth info and the rescue had her parents as well)...the link above is to an image for a scrapbook page I made for all my dogs.. from left to right Princess.. the tiny toothless wonder (she has 4 teeth) and is just the sweetest little thing.. in the middle Lizzie, Katie and Lily when we went to meet her this week.. and Molly.. good golly is she the kissiest sweetest little girl.... it's puppy love around here, even if they aren't puppies!
Anita
-

Janet - Thank you - I will put her in the healing circle today. We can all give a sign of relief with each week she passes keeping that little one nourished inside of her. Yay -- 27 weeks soon!
Diane
-

Rebecca - Oh, capsules -- great idea. It's so easy to take them that way. I may see if I can get the vegetarian Ovega-3 because I have dry throat and mouth several times a night and have to keep sipping water. We both may have that immune disease called Sjogren's. I haven't been tested for it but I read you have to test up to 5 or 6 times to get a definitive diagnosis. It attacks the salivary glands and the glands in the eyes that keep them moist. Nothing can really be done about it anyway much so if the Omega oils work, that's the best solution.
Diane
-

I love the movie Emma with Paltrow and Northam. My favorite part (really? there are too many to count) is at the dance when her friend is shunned and you can see Emma is very distressed by it. The music tells the tale. When Mr. Knightly comes to her friends rescue and asks her to dance the music swells to a very happy refrain and Emma just lights up. I love that scene.
rebecca
-

@Diane- no I use the ones in the clear capsules that look just like Vit.E's or Omega 3's. Istarted using one Omega 3 at bedtime and my dry eye is going going nearly gone. Yay.
rebecca
-

Diane: her name is Marica. Thanks! So far so good . . . she reaches 27 weeks this weekend, I think. My sister has a 6 grain hot cereal that is wonderful. And she adds chopped pecans or walnuts to it. I topped it with a banana this morning. I need to find some locally.
Janet
-

*sigh* and *sniff* Just finished watching a free On Demand movie..."Emma" with Gwenyth Paltrow and Jeremy Northam. The end always makes me tear up, when they finally profess their love for each other under those gorgeous spreading oak trees. If only life was really like that! :)
LisaG
-

Rebecca - Do you buy the flaxseed oil in a bottle already made? I've seen flaxseeds and they say you have to grind them up to digest them. I once had no breakfast and borrowed an instant oatmeal packet from a co-worker that had flaxseeds in it. But they were whole so now I'm wondering what the benefit was to put them in the oatmeal like that. Also, gag, ugh, to me, they looked just like FLEAS in the oatmeal. I tried to eat it but I couldn't get to the halfway point. I felt like I was eating fleas. :( But I've read so many great things about flaxseed OIL and how many things it is good for.
Diane
-

Lisa - Ack, gag me, too, about those wedding vows. Haven't seen them but I can imagine. Yick. And, having 20 children is selfish selfish, in my opinion. You cannot listen to each of them and give them the parents' attention each one needs each day. You cannot be attuned to signs that there is something going on bothering that child when there are so many --- even though I know this is even hard with having a small number.
Diane
-

You're welcome, Janet. I pictured your DIL and your grandson in there every time I did the healing prayer twice a day on retreat. If you want to give me her first name, I can put her in the worldwide healing prayer circle and she'll continue to get those prayers twice a day for 3 months.
Diane
-

Mike, I am so looking forward to it! I just love Billy Crystal!
Christine
-

Thank you to all veteran's and their families for your service!
LisaG
-

Great news! They signed Billy Crystal to host the Oscars! First time since 2004.
Mike
-

holy cow...look at this video!!! http://abcnews.go.com/US/hawaiian-daredevil-surfer-survives-90-foot-wave/story?id=14924860
lisag
-

Aw... I always found it cute.
Christine
-

I liked Family Circus when I was younger, but found it insipid when I was older. But I give him props and credit for creating such a long lasting comic strip! And it's too bad he's gone. ................... My sister and I hated FC so much, we would compete to see who would be the one allowed to draw crosshairs over the daily comic.
Puck
-

Diane- I was taking the Omega3 but switched to Flaxseed oil. But I am willing to go back to the O3 if I can find one that doesn't come back on me, if you know what I mean.
rebecca
-

*A Desert Love Story* ----- Once upon a time there was a very handsome male camel with two huge camel humps. ----- He fell in love and married a beautiful female camel who had one perfect camel hump. ----- As time progressed, they became the proud parents of a wonderful baby camel who had no humps. ----- They contemplated long and hard on what to call their beautiful little boy. They finally decided on.....You ready for this????? ----- ----- ----- **'Humphrey'!**
LisaG
-

I love Family Circus! ------------- Bil Keane, creator of ‘Family Circus’ that entertained for nearly half-century, dies at 89. Jeff Keane, his son, said his father died of congestive heart failure. Bil Keane has a home in Paradise Valley, near Phoenix, but it was not immediately clear where he died. Keane said in a 1995 interview with The Associated Press that the cartoon endured because of its consistency and simplicity. “It’s reassuring, I think, to the American public to see the same family,” he said.
christine
-

Derek is really good and does get the great partners. Pretty much every season. But this season, I think JR is the best and he isn't dancing with him!
christine
-

oh - I don't follow The Singoff but a group from Utah is doing very well so I catch their numbers via the internet. They're from Brigham Young University but I don't hold that against them. I have a long and not so happy history with BYU but it led me to find Utah State, which is where I belonged. Anyway, I'm so proud of these guys and they can do any style they're asked to do. Good choreography and excellent voices and arrangements. I hope they take the big prize, I really do. BTW, the Houghs and Chelsie Hightower are natives of Utah and Louie teaches at Ashley del Grasso (sp)'s studio in Provo, so Utah is well represented at DWTS. It must be something in the water. As I was born in CA that explains a few things. Now poof for real.
Janet
-

Derek is in a class of his own in terms of choreography and the magic he can work with his partners. Plus (as Maks so kindly pointed out), Derek has had some pretty good partners! But Katrina has been fabulous with JR and I hope that's how it ends up. Dance Center can be a bit campy (a lot campy) but when they ran the "credits" with Max's name in every slot, what a great comeback to his remark that he "is the show." LOL. Loved the Cirque de Soleil salute to Michael Jackson. Ms. Grace has gone home to her full time job and her adorable redheaded twins. All is as it should be. And the turkey was good. Good night. Poof!
Janet
-

I missed the show last night, but I saw the recaps. I am so cheering for JR! He was spectacular! And two perfect wcores in one night! Wow. I like Ricki too, but he is so good. And Dererk could use a loss this season, it is Karina's turn!
Christine
-

Diane: technically a pregnancy is 40 weeks. I always thought it was 9 months which would be 36 weeks but what do I know? I really don't know how it's calculated though I should ask #1 son, who has now delivered over 200 babies so far in residency. #1 was induced and then came by c section 10 days early (problems with mom) and the other two were scheduled c sections, so I have no clue how long my pregnancies really were, according to the 40 week standard. Seeing what #2 and his wife have gone through, I'm very, very grateful we had 3 healthy ones.
Janet
-

OK, changing the subject, did anybody watch DWTS last night? JR and Ricki will be the top two, I think, and both are deserving, but it's Karina's turn to win that ugly trophy, and she and JR were terrific last night. That instant dance was seamless. Great technique and method on Karina's part. I think Nancy ("you don't have a full time job and twins and I do") Grace will go home tonight. She's been hard on her partner and he's new on the show, too. In the end I hope it's JR. What a super job he has done, and I think he's raised the bar in a number of ways this season. And yay for Karina!!!!!!!!!! Just sayin.'
Janet
-

And when JimBob and Michelle renewed their vows on their 25th anniversary for all the world to watch, with Michelle (pregnant) in a modified dress from Kleinfeld's. I'm just sayin.'
Janet
-

And JimBob made such a fuss about "first kiss at the altar" when his son got married, but he looked rather experienced to me. And Jimbob's "now is the moment they exchange their first kiss, everybody, come and look" was really gagworthy. I'm just sayin.' I wouldn't mind it if one Duggar ran away and wrote a tell-all, really I wouldn't. Well, no, I'm sure they're fine people and devoted to their family but they do come across as so smug and I'd better stop here.
Janet
-

Janet - yeah, if only. The problem with the Duggars and their religion is that the women are completely subservient to the men. I almost threw up when I heard the wedding vows for their eldest son and his bride. Set women's rights back 100 years!
LisaG
-

Lisa: what you said.
Janet
-

Christine - Maybe it's "God's will" for Jim Bob to get a vasectomy! They obviously believe in medical help since they are using it for her current pregnancy and for the poor baby that was born prematurely, so why not use it to STOP having high risk pregnancies? Seriously, enough is enough.
LisaG
-

That is a great idea with amazon for people who live far apart. Much easier for delivery etc....
Christine
-

I am taking omega 3 (the tablet has no aftertaste) for joints, dry eyes. I need to remember to give it to the dogs, too. Don't know what it does for my cholesterol or BP, but they are under control.
Janet
-

of course I'll send Peter Paul and Mommy . . . and now all that's going through my head is "I'm in love with a big blue frog, a big blue frog loves me . . . . . " then there's a line that says "I'm not worried about our kids, he's got good family sense - his mother was a frog in Philadelphia, his daddy an enchanted prince." etc.
Janet
-

I just knew there would be a #20. Gotta keep the show going, you know. What risks to mother and baby! Little Josie seems to be doing well after her early start, but aren't 19 enough? .............my ears must have been burning because after my last post my finnish kids skyped with me . . . baby was happily watching a Winnie the Pooh DVD. They'd like more English DVDs and CDs for her. Done! Amazon, here we come, because amazon delivers in Finland! Yahoo!It seems they can send me links to Amazon with their Christmas lists . . . . . so that's much easier than shopping, packing, and trying to do all the paperwork (guessing all the while) so customs will be happy. amazon will do the job. Baby looks cute as a button, so fun to see her. Well, gotta vote, then tutor my literacy student . . . then cook turkey #1 son bought when he was here, planning to serve it Fri or Sat. It's just now defrosted . . .. sigh . . . will he ever listen to mom? I'll use a turkey roasting bag so I guess we'll have an early Thanksgiving.
Janet
-

You know, I think they are nice people, but I think they are obsessed with having as many kids as they can. I know they believe in God's will but use some self control! I know their family friends, the Bates, are expecting their 19th, so I guess they want to out do them. And this family friend has to take hormones (they do not have insurance, as opposed to the Duggars that do) in order to maintain her pregnancy. When asked about "God's will" she said it is God's will she becomes pregnant so of course she has to take hormones.... Perhaps God is trying to tell you no more kids???!!!
Christine
-

Don't these people know when to stop?!? They're endangering the life of another child because they can't seem to practice birth control. >>>>>> Michelle & Jim Bob Duggar Expecting 20th Child ----- "We are so excited," the Duggar mother, 45, who is three-and-a-half months along, told the mag. "I feel good. I am past the sickness stage now." ----- The couple's most recent child, Josie, born on Dec. 10, 2009, is doing well after being born premature at just 25 weeks. ----- During her last pregnancy, the Duggar mother was diagnosed with preeclampsia and is now under the care of a high-risk pregnancy doctor. She is eating very healthy with plenty of protein, vegetables and skipping the caffeine - along with getting plenty of rest. "We are just going to do the best we can," she explained. "I am taking a nap every day, and we are just taking good care."
LisaG
-

Anybody see Anderson Cooper last night, with pics of New York police horses gently nuzzling and licking dogs? So cute. The dogs liked it.
Janet
-

thank you, Diane and Christine. The twins were born at 23 weeks 5 days, so she has carried this single baby longer. The surviving twin has some disabilities and they are getting excellent services, but they are facing challenges with her, probably always will. She is 18 months old and physically is at 6-9 months development level, and only uses her voice a little. I sent sign language materials to them but haven't gotten a response (though they said I could send them). So far there is little communication except holding her arms up to them to be picked up, and giggling in a few games. She doesn't really imitate anything yet. She crawls unevenly as her left side is weaker, and doesn't use her left hand, though they do a lot of work on it. She likes music and rocks back and forth to it. She'll push a button on a musical toy and look at Dad, who has to sing the alphabet song. Another challenge is solid food, which she can't handle yet. Everything is pureed and she's on a high nutrition supplement as the drs. would like to see her put on a little more weight. She's a sweetie and their health care system is excellent, for which we will always be grateful. I miss her - will probably to to Finland when the baby is born, not sure when that will be. She is due first week in Feb., I believe.
Janet
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Amazing story/images of a Bengal tiger trying to 'play' pat-a-cake with a little girl: http://the-salfordian.com/moment-tiger-beast-tried-to-play-pat-a-cake-with-a-toddler/
kmp
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Janet, I will keep your DIL in my prayers. ____________________________ Diane, interesting. I would have to do some research before I would try it though.
christine
-

While cleaning my apt so that my petsitter doesn't faint when she comes in here ;), I found a note I had written when talking to my 62 year-old cousin on the phone this summer. She also was diagnosed with high bp. She has suffered a lifetime, though, of Rheumatoid Arthritis and has been on disability her whole life due to her joints being destroyed by her immune system and has enough trying to stay afloat financially. She was on the bp meds for a bit and then wanted to try to do without them so she stopped taking them and put herself on Omega-3's. It was something she read. It worked! Actually, since she's a vegetarian, she takes a product called OVEGA-3 but it works the same. So when they tested her again, she had a normal BP reading and the doctor was amazed. So anyone with high bp, might want to give it a try. REBECCA - is that what you used to control it, too?
Diane
-

Janet - I am going on my annual meditation retreat and we send healing prayers twice a day so I will include your DIL in my prayers while I am there. 26 weeks is like 6 months pregnant? I also so hope that baby can remain in her womb for as long as possible to give him the best chance.
Diane
-

4 yr sentence seems light. The Penn State Athletic staff who resigned could get 7 years for perjury - that whole episode is very distressing. Wonder what kind of sentence the ex-coach could get.............some good news. After 3 wks in hospital My DIL from Finland is home. She is 26 weeks pregnant and is carrying a boy. I'd assumed they would keep her in hospital until she delivered, but she is happy to be home, and darling granddaughter #2 is happy to have her home, too. We are just holding our breath that she can stay pregnant as long as possible to give the baby the best chance.
Janet
-

I don't understand...Dr. Murry is going to have his medical license suspended and COULD have it revoked. Um, any dr that did what he did should NEVER be allowed to practice medicine EVER again!!! His license should ABSOLUTELY be revoked!
LisaG
-

Christine- I totally agree with you. The doctor should have known better. But if it wasn't him, it would have been someone else. Money talks.
rebecca
-

You know it also shows if you try to pay for unethical medical care, you are going to get an unethical doctor who is going to do a half lame job taking care of you.
Christine
-

I think Michael's family did know what he was up to and I thought I had read that they tried an intervention. Then again, he has been supporting the family for years (other then Janet) so perhaps as long as he was making money, they were fine with it. Lets face it, his dad was pretty horrible to him his entire life.
Christine
-

A doctor's oath is "first, do no harm"...how can MJ's doctor say that? He did incredible harm not only for giving MJ the meds, but also for not trying to get him help. He could have warned MJ's family of a potential problem and they could have intervened. Maybe it might be questionable for dr to disclose their patient's health info, but in this case, he would have been saving a life...and I have to believe there's a way for a physician to do so leagally.
LisaG
-

Just look at octomom... didn't she pay her doctor $$ for what he did, which was completely unethical?
Christine
-

Christine - I see it all the same way you do. If Dr. Murray turned MJ down, MJ would have found another doctor who would have given him that drug. Like you said, maybe this is a good lesson to all doctors out there that they will be held criminally responsible no matter what the celebrity paid and begged them to do. Doctors should not be bought -- gee, story of this country right now with all the judges and politicians we have now that are bought. Welp, justice has to start somewhere.
Diane
-

So the verdict is guilty. I think he is, but I also think MJ is part to blame as well. He was paying off doctors to give him a drug that is only to be used at a hospital. Yes Dr. Murray compromised his ethics and was bought, but if it wasn't him it would be someone else. Many people have a price. But maybe this will send a message to the doctors of the wealthy, you can't do everything your patient wants for money. Doctors shouldn't be bought.
Christine
-

A ten dollar difference is worth the wait!
Christine
-

Christine - I try and avoid the PO, too, but I have to mail my rent registered mail because I can't trust them. Last week, though, UPS wanted $15 to mail a small box to MN, and it was just a little over $5 at the PO.
Diane
-

PUCK - What a find!!! What a priceless antique those old sewing machines are!
Diane
-

Ugh, I avoid the PO at all costs. If its naything like the grovcery store it will be a mess.
Christine
-

Rebecca - That's horrible that doctor put you on those meds so quickly after just one visit and reading on the test. Only canoli, I couldn't afford $56 a month in meds and would have to go without. I thought they weren't supposed to put you on meds unless it was shown to be chronic -- testing you at least one more time at a slightly later date. Now, if it was sky high, then he should have sent you to the hospital maybe, I don't know what the readings were. But, still, it could have been temporary and happened for some reason. My cholesterol is high but my doctor said it was ok as long as the HDL was high because the HDL takes care of it. I'm glad you were able to lower your BP naturally. My sister tried but it didn't work but maybe it takes a longer period of time to get it down. Well, getting away from her current husband would lower it, too! They are actually getting along great now that they decided to divorce -- isn't that odd? He was so verbally abusive and now is kind and considerate.
Diane
-

Christine -- So happy the quinoa dish was such a success! I know what you mean about so many people being out of work -- and our youths are the highest unemployed group in the nation. It is SHAMEFUL for any nation to be this way. It shows something is very very wrong going on (as if we didn't know already). And what we are seeing is massive unemployment while one employed person has to sweat and do the job of 3 people lest they lose their job! The local PO used to have many waiting on us and now there is ONE person, and the line is way out the door! And it's not even Christmas. It's not unusual to wait 40 minutes to get up to the window at the PO now. I don't believe they can't keep at least 2 windows open and keep one other person working since the customers are clearly there and on-line with a million things to mail and ship. They are causing the further demise of the PO by doing this because people can get to the window much quicker at the UPS store.
Diane
-

That is so COOL, LISA!!!! You take the best photos so I'm so happy they are being noticed by other people and used! You may be in demand one day soon and receiving paychecks for them for calendars, travel brochures, etc.
Diane
-

Rebecca, I am lucky as the doctor was very nice and didn't try to scare meinto anything. He was just matter of fact that we had to get it down (it was VERY high!!). I don't want ot make the meds a lifetime thing, just at least for now to control it and get better. Then we will reevaluate how I am doing in 3 months an go from there. I'm hoping the diet and exercise will be beneficial for me. _________________________ Puck, how neat! That really does sound like a treasure.
Christine
-

LisaG, congrats on the Wayfarer pics.
Mike
-

Puck- that is very exciting. I would treasure something like that.
rebecca
-

Puck - I remember those...my mom had the one her mother used when she was a seamstress. She sold it many years ago.
LisaG
-

I bought an antique pedal Singer sewing machine at an estate auction for $35. It needs cleaning, a good inspection, and some wood glue on the veneers, among other things, but it's pretty cool. And the neatest thing -- it appears this may have been used in a school, because when I managed to unstick the center tilt-out drawer, we found the scrawls of a dozen or so girls' names/initials and dates! the earliest is 1935, and the latest is 1974.
Puck
-

I would like to chime in on the high blood pressure thing if I may. I had mine checked 2 years ago and the dr. scared the hell out of me. Told me I was a walking heart attack waiting to happen and made me go on BP meds right away. Also put me on high cholesterol meds too. So basically I was spending $56 extra a month that I was not used to spending. I did this for a year. Then I quit. Went a whole year on nothing. I started eating oatmeal every morning. And eating a Del Monte pink grapefruit cup every afternoon. I walk 20 minutes every morning on my mid morning break. I've lowered my BP by 20 points. It was very nerve wracking for me. And I feel my dr. was a jerk to scare me like that. I don't think I had a good night's sleep in a year for fear I would have a heart attack in my sleep. Surely there is a better way to approach someone that is at risk?
rebecca
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{{{Mike}}} I am very sorry for the loss of your building. It sucks. LisaG- I'm glad you are back to normalcy in your life, and kudos for the catalog cover.
rebecca
-

Christine - I never add salt to anything anymore when cooking because of all the salt already in most other ingredients. I never salt anything after it's plated, too. I think some foods require salt, like french fries and popcorn and pretzels, but people are just too used to oversalted everything, it's a hard habit to break. My father used to put salt on EVERYthing...drove my mother nuts, when he wouldn't even taste the dish first, he just automatically put salt on it. Maybe that's one reason I don't salt anything anymore...I'd rather have the taste of the actual food I'm eating.
LisaG
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The quinoa came out quite good. I ate two portions, DH ate one big one. I just mixed it with corn and black beans (rinsed), seasoning, olive oil and lime juice. I liked it so much, I'm having leftover for lunch! I told DH that by all means if he wants to add salt to anything I cook, he should. I don't want to deprive the guys because of me. The right seasonings doesn't mean a lot of salt. ____________________________________________ Yes, I hope there is work out there when my son is ready to work. He can't find a part time job right now. He has applied to several stores (we are avoiding fast food because he has had a history of acne and we don't want to stir it up again). Why is it no one is hiring, but I have to stand in line to check out for 20 minutes because there are only 2 or 3 registers open? On a Saturday? It is crazy.
Christine
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Kewl! I just found out The Wayfarers used another one of my photos in their new travel catalog for 2012. I get a free logoed piece of clothing for it! Funny thing, too, the cover of the 2012 catalog is a picture of me and another hiker from last year's Santa Fe hike!
LisaG
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I was always excited for my boys' college experiences as it was such a good time for me (my undergrad years were good, my grad years a relief to be done). And we do need to focus on education and jobs for the young people who are such a valuable resource.
Janet
-

Christine - Good luck with the quinoa! I roast potatoes with just olive oil and herbs de provence. Mmm...good! Last week I roasted white potato cubes with sweet potato cubes and an onion, olive oil, and herbs de provence. Didn't miss ths salt at all. Herbs have a way of picking up the flavor in food so that really helps to cut down on salt. I LOVE dill with potatoes, too. Fresh dill. YUM.
Diane
-

That should read SALT not sald! ________________ Yes, my son is pretty excited. I do think he is ready to take that next step in his education. I think he will do very well. A Junior college is a good start. One he can get core credits out of the way inexpensively and two, its a nice slide into the college lifestyle. I am excited for him.
Christine
-

I am cutting down my sald intake quite a bit. Really reading labels, trying to make my own healthy side dishes vs. the salty prepackaged ones... tonight, we are going to try quinoa. Wish me luck!!! I'm not going to make the men suffer too much. If I make something like roasted potatoes that are salty, I'll make myself a baked one that I can top with no salt seasonings (I bought a chipotle that I can't wait to try). I do feel different. It wasn't something that I was aware of before, but now I am. My head feels less tense, if that makes any sense. Not really a headache, but just a tightness that is gone.
Christine
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Christine - LOL! My sister said the said thing while visiting my son's college before he ended up going there. She wanted to be going to college so badly with him since neither she nor I got to go. So happy for your son's new beginning! I hope this country can clean itself up enough so our youths can have those jobs they study so hard for, etc. My sister resisted the meds, too. If you don't have to be on something and can control it with diet and exercise that's great. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, it doesn't work out that way. My sister tried hard to change her diet and added more exercise and it didn't move her BP at all. :( So sometimes you just gotta take that pill. So glad you got quick results! Do you notice a difference in how you feel? On this pill, can you now eat salty things or do you still have to avoid them?
Diane
-

And he is okay with that.... he just would rather not see me take anything and just eat better and exercise more. Which is right, but some things need immediate attention.
Christine
-

Woo hoo! After only 4 days on the medication my BP is normal! DH doesn't want me to take the meds, while I am not happy about it, I do want to at least be on it so I can run consistent and then see where I am at.
Christine
-

Well the extra hour of sleep meant I was up an extra hour early. Well I have plenty to do today, so it works out.
Christine
-

Wizard of Oz is on TBS again (9:30pm)...it will be on again tomorrow night at 7pm and again at 9:15pm. Don't forget to set your clocks back tonight...an extra hour of sleep! Woo hoo!
LisaG
-

When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way, from your first cigarette to your last dying day.
Puck
-

For those of you interested in seeing classics on the big screen, they're showing "West Side Story" one night only, Wed, 11/09 in some theaters. Here's the web site... http://www.fathomevents.com/classics/event/westsidestory.aspx
LisaG
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One of my co-workers strains plain Greek yogurt and makes his own cheese. I am not that creative... I just eat it as it is.
Christine
-

Opps. missed some of the copy & paste: Greek yoghurt is yoghurt which has been strained in a cloth or paper bag or filter to remove the whey, giving a consistency between that of yoghurt and cheese, while preserving yoghurt's distinctive sour taste. Like many yoghurts, strained yoghurt is often made from milk which has been enriched by boiling off some of the water content, or by adding extra butterfat and powdered milk.
Mike
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Anita, wiki says: Greek yoghurt is yoghurt which has been strained in a cloth or paper bag or filter to remove the whey, giving a consistency between that of yoghurt and cheese, while preserving yoghurt's distinctive sour taste. Like many yoghurts, strained yoghurt is often made. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strained_yoghurt
Mike
-

We spent the morning at the junior college my son plans to attend. Had a tour, saw the planetarium show... good stuff! Made me want to go back to school!!!
Christine
-

Janet, my son was not too fond of the flying monkeys when he was little. I seem to remember crying going on!___________________ Anita, Greek yogurt is thicker then the regular and besides tasting better, it is more filling. I can't go back to regular after eating Chobani. I keep the frig stocked as my son likes them in the morning with breakfast. They cost more but are worth it. Besides the pineapple, I like most of the flavors. Fage is also good too. But the way you mix the fruit with the yogurt is a pain. ________________________ I heard hibiscus tea is good for HPB so I rediscovered a health food store by me and bought some.
Christine
-

oops, not a gift from HP but from Packard Humanities Institute, while part of the same family Packard isn't actually part of HP.
Anita
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All the movies are FREE.. they built it with a donation from Hewlett Packard.. it's an old bunker that was used by President Hoover then the Federal Reserve then HP bought it. now it's part of the Library of Congress.. they had Indiana Jones this summer.. think they also had the Wizard of Oz.. recently had Star Trek 4... they come out before the show and tell you about the movie, it's history.. you make reservations in advance for the free movies...really neat... a bunch of old movies too...the schedule comes out about 6 weeks at a time.. missed getting a reservation for today..ET... I see Singing in the Rain is playing soon.. will take the girls to see that.. I always loved that movie...and for years Katie thought I made that song up as I would sing it to her when I rinsed her off in the tub when she was a toddler .. LOL..
Anita.. who has no idea what Greek yogurt is.. I still eat yoplait...what's the difference?
-

Sad about Andy Rooney...complications of minor surgery.. last on 60 Minutes on Oct 2...Mike, you'd love the Library of Congress free movies we get in our local town.. classic movies on the big screen for free! ____ http://www.loc.gov/avconservation/theater/
Anita
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Wow, Andy Rooney died with his boots on, didn't he? Kept his mind until the end. That's how I wish to go, too, as I guess most people would. LISA -- Poor Scooter. Is he just sneezing or is his nose running? They say if it is clear, to let it be. If it gets thicker or gets a color to it, he should get some antibiotics from the vet. Good luck! Yeah, make sure there isn't a draft or wind blowing directly on his face. I hope he feels better soon.
Diane
-

and Christine, the pineapple Chobani Greek Yogurt is my fave of their offerings too. Black cherry takes the silver for me, blueberry gets the bronze. Their a local company too...about a 45 minute drive that-a-way ---->
Mike
-

LisaG...if I am channel surfing and run into the Wizard Of Oz, still to this very day I then drop the remote and just watch. That is one film I'd LOVE to see on the big screen. I've long felt that the owner of these 12 screen film venues should sock away a screen or two on Monday or Tuesday evenings and have 7:00pm showings of classics from at least 25 or 30 years prior. Especially with all these remastered versions having come out. The Wizard Of Oz one week, the Ten Commandments another, the Sound Of Music, The Godfather, even Star Wars and CLose Encounters and the like. Big screen? I'm there in a heart beat! They surely would not fill less seats than they normally have on a Monday or Tuesday at 7:00pm.
Mike
-

Andy Rooney. Wow. What a treasure that man was. I was so looking forward to his occasional "stop bys" at 60 Minutes while we still had the pleasure of him being among us. Guess it was just not meant to be. But 92. Wow. He lived a good one.
Mike
-

Andy Rooney was one-of-a-kind. We were big fans. . . . . . . woke up to snow here . . . Mike, so sorry about all the changes at work. Hope you will all get settled again soon. Wizard of Oz? I have one grown-up son who's still afraid of flying monkeys. And since darling granddaughter #1 is here (age 4) I think we'll skip it.
Janet
-

Andy Rooney has died at the age of 92. He was just on 60 Minutes not that long ago... working to the end.
Christine
-

Diane - I think Scooter has a little cold...poor guy. You have any recommendations other than to keep him warm, give him treats and lots of luvin's?
LisaG
-

YAY! I am *FINALLY* whole now...cable was restored about an hour ago. Now I have to call them tomorrow and convince them to give me a 6 day credit on my bill. An the Wizard of Oz is on TBS! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
LisaG
-

Diane, I would think he would get in trouble somehow. I hope INS goes after him! ______________________________ I love Greek yogurt with honey too... I like all flavors.
christine
-

check it out...amazing... http://www.weather.com/weather/videos/news-41/top-stories-169/giant-sequoias-crash-to-the-ground-22441#loc=41/169/22441
lisag
-

Mike - sad to hear. i hope they go with the nearby solution.
lisag
-

Mike - I'm so sorry about that. A third of a century, huh? That sure is a long time. I can understand your feelings. It must be similar to when someone has worked in a place as long and is retiring and leaving all those surroundings behind but there are so many memories. I sure hope they open up close by so everyone doesn't have to move to another state. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you on that.
Diane
-

The yogurt discussions are making me crave it! CAT - I love it with just honey, too! In the 70's when I babysat for a neighbor, I would see she was making her own yogurt because there would be a couple bowls on a heating plate sitting there covered with cheesecloth I think. I didn't realize it was easy and that all you need is a heating plate. Good to know in this economy. As for the trial, it's in a waiting phase because all the lawyers are supposed to write their closing briefs and have them to the judge by next Friday. The estate attorney said the judge was going to make his decision right away, but my lawyer is saying the decision might come just before Christmas. So I don't know whose right. They are all in that part of the country with the power outages this week so I haven't been able to try and pin down the decision time yet. Thank you so much for asking. My lawyer told the handyman's lawyer that his client just admitted to a crime on the stand (obtaining drivers licenses from states he didn't live in) and he's lucky if the INS doesn't come to his door. My question is, if a witness on the stand reveals that they did something illegal, does the judge have a responsiblity to report that?
Diane
-

Oh Mike, that is too bad. I am sorry. ______________________________ On a lighter note, Chobani pineapple rocks!
Christine
-

Well, sadly, but not unexpectedly, my employer announced that we will not be staying in the plant that got ravaged by the floods in early Sepember. All things considered, it's clearly the right call, but it's hard. I've worked in that building for thisclose to a third of a century. I stopped by there this morning and, with many tears in my eyes, I took a final long stroll around the place (many places one can still not walk because of the floor damage), taking in the utter destruction just 42" of standing river water can do to a structure. Lots of caked mud still evident throughout, still has a bit of that river-stench (and we're 3/4 of a mile from the river!). I took a lot of pictures - was not supposed to, but f*ck 'em - I just had to I guess. Found a loose brick and some old flooded floor-board that was cut away, so I have couple of pieces of the building too. This does NOT though mean I am out of a job, not just yet anyway. The work has to be done somewhere, we have many military and commercial contracts and right now we have our 1300 people in 8 different buildings in a neighboring town (old IBM buildings long vacant from when they left). We are setting up temporary offices and manufacturing while the guys in the suits determine where everything will move, whether it be local (which they DO want, we have 1,300 trained professionals aferall), or whether it be in Indiana or New Hampshire...where it all would move to if a local place is not found. Odds are the final place this one we all know of in in another neighboring town, strong rumors attest to that being the place of choice (plus, it makes a lot of sense, we'd chose that new building I bet if the company was moving into the area as a new business and had a choice of our present building (in undamaged condition of course) and this other building. So I've got me fingers crossed.
Mike (eating some black cherry Chiobani Greek Yogurt!)
-

I love Greek yogurt. Its the only yogurt we eat at our house.
Christine
-

I like Greek yogurt, too. You can make that obviously. Just drain off the whey. I like it best creamy with just honey. I was reading somewhere online that the "land flowing with milk and honey" was a Biblical reference to yogurt with honey.
Cat
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Cat, interesting on the yogurt making. I mysekf am a big Greek yogurt fan (and not because I'm Greek either!). It never ceases to amaze me at the simple ways it is to make some things. One of my faves was one episode of Good Eats where Alton Brown (dude is hilarious) grabbed a window fan, ran to the cellar to grab two furnace filters and surprised us with a "let's make some beef jerky". All he did was prepare the meat, put it between the two filters, tied them together tightly on the outer side if the window fan, turned the fsn on and stuck it in the window and about 18 hours later he had beef jerky! I still sin't tried that way, I'll stick with my American Harvest food dehydrator. Oh, and trust me, none if ya's has had raisins until you made your own. It's nothing short of smazing hiw great they come out drying your own. Astonishingly plump & juicy. (the drawback is that, for me at least, making raisins leaves the toughest cleanup job on the dehydrators racks)
Mike
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Just popping in to say hello. Diane = what happened with your case? And speaking of making things and yogurt, has anyone tried to make her own yogurt? It's dead easy and you don't need any special equipment. I use a heating pad, an old pot, a wheat germ jar and some towels and a another pot for a lid. Leave it overnight and in the morning you have the most delicious yogurt.
Cat
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LISA - I love Greek yogurt. Actually, Mike, you might like my version of 'hummus' although I call it vegge-tuna. The only thing the same is the creamed chick peas. Then I add mayonaise, a little vinegar, some sweet relish and a lot of chopped celery. When I put it on a buffet table with pitas, people are surprised and go, "Wow, that's the best hummus I've ever eaten". LOL! I meant to make "veggie-tuna" but, oh well. Everyone calls it hummus.
Diane
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LOL! Mike!! You crack me up! You really don't like hummus, huh?
Diane
-

Come to think of it, I'd rather have some of Diane's brother's leftover Dinty Moore Beef Stew than hummus ;-)
Mike j/k
-

Hummus???? Yuck with a capital Y!!! Cannot even begin to stand the stuff. Ever seethe Tom Cruise version of The War Of The Worlds. In it he unknowingly puts some of that glop in his mouth expecting a nice dip of some sort and if you see his face and reaction...well, that's me!
Mike (gagging at the thought of hummus)
-

a really delicious breakfast or lunch for me is some Fage 0% greek yogurt mixed with trail mix from my local grocery store. the mix has sunflower seeds, walnuts, almonds, peanuts, dark & light raisins, and dried cranberries...nothing is salted...really yummy.
lisag
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Lisa - Thanks for the link. yes, I'm in the market to buy some Christmas cards on-line. CHRISTINE - I haven't made it myself but I've had quinoa salads made with cranberries nuts and things. Good for you trying new recipes! The Vegetarian Times on-line has great ideas for so many things and so many recipes that are FREE to look up!
Diane
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Oh Diane! Yuck! But they do say there are plenty of things we eat that we would be mortified to know what is (and is allowed) in them.... we have a saying in Spanish, "what doesn't kill me, will make me fat". _________________________ Has anybody ever made quinoa? I'm hearing how good it is and found some basic recipes that the family might like. DH doesn't know it yet, but his dinners are changing. Not that I cook deep fried foods, or frozen dinners.. but I see new experiences coming. Luckily, he is open to lots of stuff.
Christine
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Hey there...if anyone is looking for some nice Christmas cards, here's a good website: http://www.pomegranate.com/christmascards.html --------- They also sell Sierra Club cards at a good price and the photographs are beautiful...be sure to look at the "single title" Sierra Club cards, too. http://www.pomegranate.com/sierclubchri.html
lisag
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Lisa - Yeah, it makes you wonder how much stuff we eat in prepared foods that are stew-like where anything could be hidden in there. I have to get my 'chef' brother back to cooking himself. His son needs that. I'm thinking of getting him a Jacques Pepin cook book to get him going. I hope it does the trick. They eat only prepared foods and no one cooks in that house. ?! I hope this disgusted him enough to go back to cooking because he was excellent with making his own recipes with sauces, etc. that he would think up himself or amend from an existing recipe. The nutrition value in canned and frozen foods is just horrible, anyway. A waste of money these days -- but I know the rush we are all in with time being short.
Diane
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Diane - OMG...that's disgusting!!!
LisaG
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DO NOT EAT RIGHT NOW WHILE READING THIS -- My brother got a can of Dinty Moore Beef Stew. He saw something odd in there and had it analyzed. It was rat feces! He's going to try and sue, but I think they'd be happy to settle.
Diane
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Christine - Carrots and hummus sounds good. I've found that if there's enough garlic in some things, I don't miss salt. Sounds like you are doing good and trying hard to stay away from salt. I've tried to stay away from things in the past for various reasons, and it's not easy. Having a snack table at work makes it hard, too. My sister loves salt (also has high BP) and when I gave her one of those Himalyan Salt Lamps, she LICKED it. I was like, "Ew, I don't know how many people touched that!"
Diane
-

Lisa, wow! Mike, it makes you wonder....
Christine
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LisaG, so what that tells me is that the air quality must have been really, really, really bad during the winter months in the 1800s with all that wood burning going on ;-)
Mike
-

Check this out...we have an air quality alert for tomorrow and check out why... THIS FORECAST IS DUE TO A COMBINATION OF SNOW PACK, LIGHT WINDS AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, ***INCREASED NUMBER OF WOOD BURNING USED FOR HEATING HOMES RESULTING FROM A RECORD NUMBER OF POWER OUTAGES CAUSED BY THE HISTORIC HEAVY WET SNOWSTORM OF OCTOBER 29TH AND 30TH.***
lisag
-

Sting is as beautiful as he always was.... wow! Jon Bon Jovi too. He is one handsome man who gets better with age.
christine
-

Wow! Grace Slick looks like someone's grandma! She was so striking when she was young.
christine
-

Well, I am really trying to eat well and will try even harder... time to stop or eat in moderation a lot of the salty treats I enjoy. I have to avoid the "snack" table in our work office that is loaded with goodies (thus the Doritos). I have been eating a lot of humuus with carrots lately. I'll have to check the label on that, though they say its very good for you.
christine
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Diane - I know...some looked better like Stevie Nicks and Joan Jett and others were just plain scary...poor Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers!
LisaG
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Ack, Doritos! Those are killers. And you ate 3 and stopped? You have good will power, Christine. If I buy those and start, I have to take the bag and walk it down the hall and put it on our kitchen table at work so everyone can eat the bag before I do. I used to get homicidal when I was in menopause when I ate those things. It was horrible. Now it makes me just irritable.
Diane
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I use a salt substitute on many things like veggies and meats. I even buy low sodium cheese. And here I sit at work having Doritos! The last couple years my body changed. I gained some belly fat and now this. I wonder if some of it is menopause. I don't eat that much... I don't snack often, and when I do its not much (I just had 3 doritos).... as I had a partial hysterectomy, I might not know I am going thru it. Oh the joys of old age!
Christine
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LISA - I think the boss still looks great! :) The Stones, oy. I think drug use or abuse really ages the skin and the face like alcohol does so maybe that's why many look so bad. A few look even better than they used to, I think. Like Meatloaf.
Diane
-

scary stuff... http://www.nbcnewyork.com/entertainment/music/NATLRock-Stars-Then-and-Now-97329329.html
lisag
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I try and stay away from salt because it causes the kidneys to expel calcium out of your body into your urine. I can't afford much more bone loss. Since menopause, salt also makes me a witch and edgy and angry so that's another reason I try and avoid it. When I don't eat it so much, I stop missing it. But I've been falling lately and eating potato chips which gets me hooked again so I have to try and stop that.
Diane
-

Christine - Have you tried olive oil with some fresh or dried herbs in place of salt on things like vegetables or a slice of bread? I've done that and afterwards was shocked to realize later that I ate no salt -- but it was so delicious! I didn't think there could be flavor without salt, but it's really a tastebud pleaser to switch to different herbs -- Herbs de Provence is a nice blend that goes so well on so many things.
Diane
-

And I know at our library we have a small business center, a genealogy room and we answer every known question you could ever think of.
Christine
-

Diana, I am a salt-aholic. I love salt. I tried cutting down, even buying low sodium products, but it doesn't seem to help. The nurse who was at the office has been on meds since she was 36.
Christine
-

Janet, I read that article and saw the news coverage as well. People have to know that the libraries aren't just warehouses for books, there is programming, compunter access, children's story times. Not every person has a computer, people need them to create resumes and apply for jobs. We also offer free computer classes, in English and Spanish and they are quite popular. WE offer free yoga and zumba lessons.... our programming for teens in addition to fun things, are about getting into college, practice ACT. People losing access to their libraries is a big detriment to the average person.
Christine
-

Wow, good for them doing their sit-in, JANET. It's so exhilarating to see the people in this country so active now in response to all these cuts they are laying on us all because the money went and is still going straight up to the super rich. It's shameful, just shameful how greedy these people have gotten knowing others are losing their jobs, and their homes, and their benefits; and hospitals, schools, and libraries are closing. The people have had enough and it's about time. All people in all countries have a limit of how much they will tolerate, and they hit our limit. And the police had better check that police brutality because it is only fueling the people's fire and the numbers GROW when people learn of the brutality to innocent peaceful protestors.
Diane
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Thank you, Lisa! Yum in advance! :)
Diane
-

Christine - The same thing just happened to my sister at the age of 50. She is also on meds now. She tried to control it with exercise in diet but it didn't work. She noticed that eating salt makes it very bad so she stays away from salt as much as she can. She can actually feel the pressure rise and the heat come into her face. But she's on the meds now and it is going ok. I feel for you. It's hard to face something like that that our parents had and knowing that you now have it, too. But I hope they can get it under control for you.
Diane
-

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/31/chicago-librarians-suppor_n_1068281.html?ref=books&ir=Books Chicago librarians protest budget cuts with read-in outside mayor's office.
Janet
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Diane - pkg headed your way...don't eat it all in one sitting!
LisaG
-

Well my family history finally caught up with me. I am now one of the many who has high blood pressure. The doctor put my on meds and advised me to buy a bp cuff to monitor myself. I guess making it to 46 wihtout any major issues is the best that I can do.
Christine
-

Boy, would my stray and feral cats have loved a nice little house like that when the weather got rainy and cold here. I always dreamed of having a shelter room for them somewhere.
Diane
-

Oh.... so I 'can' rent it. :) LOL! What a beautiful photo with the snow. That could almost be a Christmas card photo if you photoshopped a red bow on a wreath above the door.
Diane
-

And yes, that was taken midday on Saturday. The snow is thankfully mostly gone by now. Lots of downed branches, but no damage on my property.
Cat
-

That's a playhouse. It's probably 8x16 inside with plenty of head room. When I bought the house I fixed it up. It's a big open room inside. Very cute.
Cat
-

Boy, would I love to rent a little cottage like that.
Diane
-

Didn't see the new photo until I refreshed. Is that a doll house or a real house? How cozy looking!!!
Diane
-

Thanks, REBECCA! EVERYBODY - Sounds like a strange Halloween everywhere and I am so glad you finally got your power back on, LISA. The county I'm from still has thousands without power and they aren't expected to get it back on for 90% of the people until midnight Wednesday! You all suffer so much at that part of the country. It doesn't seem fair.
Diane
-

We managed to get through 2 bags of candy! A record for us! Usually we go through one.
Christine
-

Oh, and I heard of no power issues around here. We were on the fringe of the storm and thus lucky. :-)
Mike
-

2:00am, 11/1 (Boo! November, boo, hiss, boo!). Cute pic Cat. Are we to assume it was taken this past weekend during Snowtober? Lisa, glad things are getting back to normal electically out there. All in the NE effected can be glad it was now rather than say, later November when the temperatures would be lower longer and no heat/electricity would be much more adverse. Here, we just had maybe 5-6" and it was all literally gone by noon Sunday.
Mike
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Only 8 trick or treaters...wow. I bought 6 bags of candy! I hope I can return 2 of them that I didn't open. Hopefully, they'll have the town party this week and will take candy donations.
lisag
-

Cat, thats a cute playhouse!!
Christine
-

Lisa, we don't realize how much we depend on our conveniences until we lose them. I'm not surprised you aren't getting many kids at your door. By me the hours were from 3:30 to 6, not many kids were out as the middle schools don't even get home until after 4, but by you, its a whole different thing!
christine
-

wow...6:30 pm and only 2 trick or treaters. normally, i'd have had at least 50 by now. majority of the towns are without power, so i guess that makes it hard to prepare the kids and take them around. poor kids! :(
lisag
-

I wonder what's going to happen with trick or treating. With so many people still without power, all the snow and ice, so many trees, tree limbs and power lines down, it's dangerous for kids to walk around. The town even sent out a broadcast phone message telling parents so consider not going out and that they were going to organize something at the town hall this weekend.
LisaG
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i'm tellin' you, i don't know how those pioneers survived with just fire for heat and cooking and stuff. those were sturdy people!
lisag
-

Yay! Lisa!
christine
-

the power is back on!!! the power is back on!!! OMG...the heat feels SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good!!!
LisaG
-

Nope - just me moving too fast. Anyway, it's a shot of the playhouse in my back yard.
Cat
-

This is a first Tried to change the photo, but it won't let me! No idea why.
Cat
-

Saw the news and just wanted to drop by and say GOOD LUCK to both LisaG and Miss DianeE. What you are going through right now sucks. Hang in there.
rebecca
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I had to get 2 more extension cords and really wanted heavy duty, just in case, so I headed out and was able to get two 50 ft 12 gauge cords which is perfect for getting to the kitchen. I also stopped by McDonald's to get something for dinner...it was PACKED...as was every other fast food place...they're going to do well with this situation. As I was driving, the roads right near my complex seemed ok...in my complex, the power lines are buried, luckily. But on one road getting to Lowes, it was a MESS! Lots of tree limbs down, some over power lines, some just sticking into the street, making it hazardous to drive...in several places there was only one lane and of course no street lights, so it was kinda hairy. The mom-ster got her power back...man, I hope ours is restored soon, too!
LisaG
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Hi all...update time...I got my DSL up! WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!! :) Thankfully, the land line phone service was restored this afternoon, but I had to think of something to do so I could work tomorrow, so I moved all my DSL equipment and land line phone to the kitchen, kicked on the generator and voila! I also have my frig plugged in and a heater, so I think I'll be ok for a while.
LisaG
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Lisa, glad you are okay! _____________ Cat, I have a feeling it is going to be a LONG winter! I don't mind a bit of pretty snow, I just hate driving in a snow storm or cleaning it all up. *sigh* I think I will make sure we always have plenty of toilet paper and bread this season.
Christine
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what a doozy of a storm! This is WAY too early. We were fine all day until later in the evening, then no TV, Internet or phone. Power at this house stayed on, thankfully. It's really melting now.
Cat
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4pm...whew what a day! started with shoveling the final few inches from the driveway and around the compressor (for whenever we get power back). then spent a while figuring out how to get the generator to work...it's been running in the driveway since noon and is running the sump pump, recharging my sump battery backup (thank goodness for that thing!) and i have a heater going in the bedroom. was able to recharge my cell, but we got our phone lines back and also recharge my laptop. tomorrow will be interesting because i'm not sure where i could go to work that has power. i'm going to see if i can refill the gas tanks and my car wherever the pumps are working and then i should be able to work a bit at home. lots of tree damage here in my complex...i haven't ventured out because i don't want to get stuck anywhere. what a mess!!!
lisag
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Janet, it makes you wonder how we ever got by before computers and cell phones. You used your land line and you sent letters with pictures. Seems like ages ago.
Christine
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We skyped with darling granddaughter #2 today and Grandpa got her giggling. She is so cute. I just want to reach out and touch her and of course she's in Finland . . . skype is a great thing.
Janet
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I really hate to hear trees cracking. . . . what a terrible sound. When we play in snow, they usually keep the field cleared . . . spectators wear waterproof gear if they're dumb enough to come, but we usually don't get DUMPED on the way the east coast has had it.
Janet
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12.8 inches of snow in Hartford..record for the day and month...38 days ahead of average snowfall.... 6 in 10 homes in CT without power.. will be 5 to 7 days before it's restored... schools closed......
Anita
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NJ, PA and CT over 3 million without power.. CT has unprecedented damage...on the Weather Channel now..19 inches of snow in West Milford, NJ...green leafed trees snapped in half, heavy with snow.. heavy wet snow...snow came down at an inch an hour...will be at least Wednesday before power comes back....Harrisburg, PA 9.7 inches of snow... no report from CT but I they got hit the worst of these 3 states.. Lisa may be without power for a while...hope eveyone with generators keeps them outside and in a well ventilated area.
Anita
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Yes, I hope Lisa is okay! I saw some footage on the news and it looks bad.
Christine
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Just saw a photo from another friend in CT.. looks like a blizzard.. lots of heavy wet snow.. power lines down everywhere.. tree branches down.. I'd guess close to a foot of snow in her photo... hope you're okay Lisa! I know she's in the western part of the state, think you're closer to NY.. but still, they reported the Nor'easter picked up intensity as it moved up that way and was MUCH worse.. we lucked out.. only got a dusting on the ground as it was too warm to collect...but it did snow all night, had over a couple inches on the dog's ramp once it did get cold enough to accumulate. It all melted by mid day though. Weird to see snow, green grass and fall leaves at the same time.
Anita
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JANET -- LOL! on you playing football in the snow! Mike -- Gosh, how do they see those yard lines with the snow -- or is that part of the fun? SO -- is it still cold there everybody in the east? I tried to look at the Tappan Zee Bridge cam in NY, and it was 2/3 blocked by snow! I almost ever see that on that cam. And I see it's not melting even with the sunny day!
Diane
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I remember an NFL game on Thanksgiving were it was snowing so much you could barely see the players, let alone the ball or field.
Christine
-

still snowing. i can hear trees cracking all over. getting a bit chilly inside with no heat. :( will try out the generator tomorrow if we're still without power. this really sucks.
lisag
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWdZO1EDhic Check this out to see our students predict a win. It's quite an experience to be in the arena when they start this chant.
Janet
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had to laugh last night. We had a pre-season basketball game with UC San Diego. the coach and players NEVER looked at the rabble-rousing student section. Not once. The students went crazy trying to engage them. The coach said it was his 10th trip to our campus, and he was well aware of our student cheering section. So he turned his back to them, and instructed his players to do so also. So funny. We are kinda famous for enthusiastic students.
Janet
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We usually have a very cold spell before Halloween here in the Rockies and it isn't unusual to have some snow by now. But then it often gets mild again for a few weeks before winter really sets in. Snow before Thanksgiving is what the ski resorts pray for as it means they'll have a good year. Oh, yeah, we play football in the snow. Well, not ME, but the university here. There is a home game here the weekend of Thanksgiving and I expect it to be very cold, possibly snow. I'm thinking of ways to get out of it. My boys really enjoyed muddy soccer games. In soccer season you pack your trunk for all 4 seasons, as you may experience them in one game. Bundle up, Lisa! Hope your power returns soon!
Janet
-

Diane, weather-wise, typically only two things stop a football game. An extreme heat and humidity mix (they have rules and formulas now), or lightning. Snow? We guys PRAY to play in a blizzard some day. It's what we live for.
Mike
-

How cold is there now, Lisa? Boy, thrown right into winter mode in every way! The weather in that part of the country has gotten so very strange in the last several years.
Diane
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Ok, so we've had at least 4 inches of snow so far, with more falling. I went out and shoveled the driveway and around my compressor out back. Trees with leaves are bent completely over next door and at some other areas...some branches have broken off. Unfortunately, as of 2:30pm, we have no power. I'm on dial up with my computer which will run out of battery power soon. I turned all the faucets on to drip, so pipes don't freeze because I'm not sure when the power and heat will come back on. :( Glad the cats have fur coats and I'm super glad I put in those new batteries for the sump pump backup...WHEW! Wish me luck that the power returns soon...so weird that Irene didn't affect me at all and now this has wacked the power. *sigh*
LisaG
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Thanks for the best wishes and sentiment and sympathy, Janet and Mike. I am so confused about laws concerning illegal aliens and Trusts and Wills. We never thought it would get this far either but my lawyer told me they sure made the handyman sweat while he was on the stand this week revealing his illegal status. On the snow thing -- WOW!!! I can't believe the cams in NY!! My nephew's campus in New Paltz is white blitzed. LISA - Yes, it must be some kind of record. I don't remember that snowfall in 1979 but I remember it snowing on November 1 or something back when I was in Jr. High in the early to mid-70's. MIKE -- So they are actually playing a game in all that snow?
Diane
-

this is so funny...watch! http://animalvideos.yahoo.com/video-detail?vid=27095138&cid=24037714
lisag
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1pm...mom-ster just woke me up with a phone call...YAAAAAAAAAWN! she said they have a little less than an inch sticking in NJ...here in CT, it's a dusting so far. it's just really weird...i can't remember the last time it snowed this early, but they said it was in 1979! i was only 19. looks like we might break some records...i just hope it's not as severe as they're now saying and that all the northeast towns have enough time to prepare. i'm sure they usually don't get plows and salt and sand ready for several weeks yet!
lisag
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10/29. 12:49pm - Snow. Yes, unusual this time of year, but not at all unheard of around here. I'd wager a guess that once every 12 to 15 years around here we get an October heavy snow warning. (Heavy as in damp/wet flakes). It'll be gone by this time Monday, but what damage will it bring? Watching Yale/Columbia right now (game in NYC) and it's a major whiteout.
Mike
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Gosh Diane, don't know what to say other than this just ain't right. My first thoughts were, with this ^#%@er being an illegal alien, that he could not own any prperty, so how could he legally be named in a trust for the house? (unless the trust includes a third party selling the home). It just sucks. Best of luck with this. You know we are all sending good vibes your way!
Mike
-

No snow here, sun shining, a bit cool with rain tomorrow. I have heard that this will be a horrible winter snow wise.... blechh!
christine
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I am trying to see the cams to see if the snow is materializing. I don't see much but a little dampness in lower NY yet. LISA --- Did you get the snow yet? This is so crazy for October! LOL! We had't thought about writing to a republican about this. That might be the best idea yet. The trustee's husband tried everything to get him deported but NY tends to protect the undocumented. He went to the INS, ICE and Homeland insecurty and they all were interested and said they'd look into it. They never did anything as far as we know. Keep us posted on the snow.
Diane
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Oh, and speaking of the weather. I took vacation days Thurs and Fri to head to the mom-ster's for a long weekend...she wanted to take me to the Sugarloaf Craft Festival. Since I got there late Thursday afternoon, we were able to go the first day on Friday morning and basically spent the whole time there, shopping, lunch and more shopping. We did really good with almost finishing Christmas shopping. Anyway, Saturday, we were going to try to go to an apple orchard, but we heard it was going to rain, so we thought we'd hit a movie instead. Well, I'm on my town's emergency contact list and I got a call about the storm and worry about power outages, so we tune into the weather stations at 9:30pm and they're saying 5-8 INCHES!!! It was only supposed to be passing rain showers and now it's half a foot of snow! So, instead of trying to get home on Saturday in whatever precipitation mess we're going to have, I packed up real quick and left at 10:45pm...got home at 1am. WHEW!. I managed to make room in the garage for my potted plants and also my car. Then I spent an hour in my crawlspace switching out old marine batteries for new ones for my sump pump backup in case of power outages. What a workout! Those things weigh a good 70+ pounds, but I managed to lever the old out and new in and reconnect all the wires, so I'm all set...hopefully I won't need it. It's now 5am and I'm exhausted. zzzzzzzZZzZZzzzzzzzzzzZzzzZZZZZZZZZZz! Hope all you fellow north easters make out ok!
LisaG
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Diane - That really stinks! Is there any way to get that scum deported back to Guatemala? I'm serious!!! Find a nice conservative republican political official and write to him/her to help. I think that's what flabberghasts me the most...the dude is here illegally...he shouldn't even be in the country, let alone trying to take off with someone's inheritance! Good luck...sending positive winning vibes your way....OOOOOOHHHHHMMMMMMMM!!! :)
Lisa G
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Diane: I can't see how the handyman ever got the case this far and I'm really distressed that it has cost you so much. That is just wrong. I hope you win and that in the end it was worth it . . keep us posted.
Janet
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Cat - You are so right that he abused by aunt and her trust and Trust. She tried to help him by employing him and giving him work and trying to get him citizenship. And this is what he did in return.
Diane
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Thank you, Cat and Christine. I finally just heard from my lawyer so I'm feeling a little better. The trial is over and now they just have to write legal briefs to summarize their positions and give them to the judge in 2 weeks. Thankfully, the judge threw out their claim that my aunt was under undue influence to change her Trust at the end since he didn't see any evidence of that in court. Now it is just up to her state of mind. The doctor they brought in was chewed up and spit up my my lawyer and the estate lawyer. He never even saw my aunt or spoke to her doctor. He even admitted to them afterwards that he shouldn't even be there and that he hopes we win. My lawyer is still hopeful we'll win but he said, God forbid, if he rules against us, there is a list of things that would easily make them eligible to appeal. My lawyer is so sharp and competent and he said the other side did not prove their case so he would be surprised if we lost but he wouldn't rule it out either because he has seen how this judge works before. So I won't have to borrow that big loan just yet.
Diane
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Diane - my God, what a nightmare. I hate stories like that. So sad about your aunt - she obviously wanted to do something nice for someone, and he abused her generosity and her family. I fail to see how no will would benefit the handyman. He's not in the line of intestate succession.
Cat
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Oh, Diane... I hate to say it, but it really wasn't worth it. Morally yes, finacially no. I am so sorry this happened to you. Though, just remember, in the long run the handyman will have to account to someone. You won't. :-(
Christine
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Just looked at the maps -- so many of you are going to get SNOW!!! Wow, is that early in the season --- too early, huh?
Diane
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Hi Everyone. Remember the case of my aunt's trust where she left me half of the worth of her house and the other half to her handyman? And how the handyman (who is an illegal immigrant from Guatemala) got a lawyer to try and have that trust removed because in the 1st amendment to the Trust he managed to coerce my aunt into leaving everything to him? Well, after 3 yrs, it finally went to trial this week. My $13K in savings (took me 13 years to save it) is totally gone and my lawyer's last bill will be about that much. If I ever was told this would cost $23K to defend, I never would have done it because I don't make that kind of money. Anyway, my lawyer is super and so is the estate lawyer. The handyman's lawyer is horrible, is impulsive, and makes numerous mistakes as if he never went to law school. He is trying to say my aunt's signature was forged OR the lawyers had her sign a blank piece of paper to fool her -- the motive? Geez. Anyway, my lawyer and the estate lawyer are doing outstanding, but.....the judge is definitely favoring the handyman's side because he seems to like his lawyer. Alot of people in the county also think this particular judge takes bribes and is corrupt. My lawyer and the estate lawyer do not think the judge will rule in our favor and are already talking about appealing. However, the account we were to split originally is almost done to zero and the house money is dwindling as well. For me, I am 10 years away from retirement, and I lost the $13K I had in savings for retirement or if I get laid off. Not only am I broke, I have to take out a personal loan for 13-15K to pay off my lawyer which will take me 5-6 years to do. If I lose, this will be my life. I also still have my car loan for another year so this will be a very tough year for me to get through paying 2 loans and my rent. It's more than half my take-home pay. I will probably never get the chance to get a savings account that will help me in times of trouble before I retire. So I regret ever going to fight this because it has not been worth it. I'm not a gambler and when they contested this, I sadly should have pulled out because I just do not make enough to hire a lawyer. Thanks for listening to me through all this. It turned into the nightmare it has been all along. I don't know what the verdict will be, though, but my lawyer has not called me in 2 days and he only likes to call me with good news.
Diane
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What a wonderful story!! ___________________________ http://gma.yahoo.com/blogs/abc-blogs/real-life-slumdog-millionaire-first-win-big-133931964.html
Christine
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very true!
Christine
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clods WHO don't (sorry)
Diane
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I guess the ones that send the big baskets send them so big to make up for the clods you don't, Christine! :)
Diane
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It really was... and then there are the countles sothers that we bend over backwards to help and don't even get a thank you.... ah well... such is life....
Christine
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Christine - What a thoughtful and grateful and thankful gesture!!! How wonderful she went back and remembered all of you who helped her!
Diane
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Thanks, Mike - I'm a Fiona Hutchinson Gabrielle fan!
Diane
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I have some of that! My co-worker and I who do the actual interlibrary loaning of materials (the other person is on vacation)split alot of the goodies. Things like cheese, sausage and smoked salmon. We kept out at our office crackers, munchies and fruit. Things that can sit for a bit.
Christine
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Christine - Oh yum!!! They make really good Moose Munch...caramel or chocolate covered popcorn
lisag
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Wow, this was really nice of one of our patrons. As a thank you to my department for all we have done for her with getting her doctorate, a patron sent us a huge Harry and David gift tower. I looked it up and it was $149! Wow!
Christine
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If you ever wanted to visit Hawaii, better go within the next 2 years! Check this story out.... Up to 20 million tons of debris from Japan’s tsunami moving toward Hawaii ----- By Laura Rozen | The Envoy – 7 hrs ago ----- Some 5 to 20 million tons of debris--furniture, fishing boats, refrigerators--sucked into the Pacific Ocean in the wake of Japan's March 11 earthquake and tsunami are moving rapidly across the Pacific. Researchers from the University of Hawaii tracking the wreckage estimate it could approach the U.S. West Coast in the next three years, the UK Daily Mail reports. ----- "We have a rough estimate of 5 to 20 million tons of debris coming from Japan," University of Hawaii researcher Jan Hafner told Hawaii's ABC affiliate KITV. ----- Crew members from the Russian training ship the STS Pallada "spotted the debris 2,000 miles from Japan," last month after passing the Midway islands, the Mail wrote. "They saw some pieces of furniture, some appliances, anything that can float, and they picked up a fishing boat," said Hafner. The boat was 20-feet long, and was painted with the word "Fukushima." "That's actually our first confirmed report of tsunami debris," Hafner told KITV.
LisaG
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Wow!
Christine
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From Fiona Hutchison - "Brace yourselves, I have some wonderful news to share with all of you. I am returning to One Life to Live as Gabrielle. I have two shooting dates. Keep in mind, these are not air dates, but shooting dates. The first shoot date is Tuesday, October 25th; the second shoot date is Tuesday November 15th. If you happen to be in New York City {DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT PUT YOURSELF OUT AND FLY IN, I'M SERIOUS!} please, by all means, feel free to stop by the ABC Studios and chat. Obviously, for fire safety reasons as well as security reasons, I cannot bring any of you into the studio. But I do take breaks and I will be sure to slip away as much as I can to come out and 'hang' with my 'posse' {Bridget thinks it's hilarious and always dares me to say 'posse'}. I Have ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA what they have in store for Gabrielle. She is dead but with daytime, who knows? I swear I would tell ALL of you if I knew what was going to happen. I have no script as of yet."
Mike
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I saw this on yahoo and found it interesting. http://news.yahoo.com/285-indian-girls-shed-unwanted-names-122551876.html
Christine
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I hope your girls will see that in their lifetime too. The promise of a good future for the people of China is there.....
Christine
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you're welcome Christine..and no problem Janet..............I also wanted to mention when you see things on TV about China you have to wonder what the intent of the program is...... do they want to make China look bad? If so they will do their darndest to do so...........all media does this.......they can take the same story and make it work for them.. my Mom was recently interviewed in Florida about in incident that happened in her neighborhood.. on local news station made her look like a disgruntled neighbor siding with the the ousted business person.. the other station made her look like she backed the local sheriff 100% percent.. she told them both the exact same thing.. it was all in the editing! Right now so many want to villianize China...yes, they aren't a free democracy.. they don't have the freedoms we have but they have a lot of good things going too.. I felt safer in China than in a lot of places here.. I took cabs by myself to go shopping...the people treated me kindly.. (and I didn't have a baby with me at all times either, sometimes I went solo shopping while Gary stayed in the hotel with a sleeping baby)..... yes, they have their problems.. lots of them....personal freedom and human rights are up there at the very top... I hope that changes...I think in their lifetimes my girls will see the end of communism in China like was saw the fall of it in Eastern Europe...and I think great things are in store them the country.....
Anita
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Thank you Anita, I knew you would be able to weigh in on the situation with your experience. Terrible things happen everywhere. We cannot just say it is the Chinese or another culture because this incident could have happened here as well.
Christine
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Anita, thanks for the info. I hope I didn't sound like I was stereotyping, and China is indeed a far more complex country than I will ever understand. And growing so quickly, and advancing in leaps and bounds. I do find it sad when any culture prefers one gender over another. I have two granddaughters and can't imagine life without them. Mr. J had no clue what little girls were like, but he's wonderful with them. It's been so fun to have little girls in our life. It does sadden me that people who want to adopt are having a harder time of it.
Janet
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OMG...Watching OnDemand of The Daily Show from Wednesday...Jon Stewart is cracking me up with his analysis of the latest Republican nightmare...er...I mean debate. They're all a bunch of children...ridiculous.
LisaG
-

International adoption in general has taken a big hit.. for one, the Hague Convention has made it very hard to adopt.. and UNICEF has a lot of pull.. they feel a child is better in their land of birth and culture than with a family in another country...yeah, like a street child in Guatemala is learning about his or her ethnic heritage.. and in China most of the kids in orphanages are there for reasons not typical (it's the one child policy, not usually poverty) .. As for the unbalance in China, they still have girls, the ratio is skewed but getting better.. but you have to remember that's for documented girls.. there are thousands, more than that of undocumented "illegal" girls, in rural areas.. the people of China do love girls.. yes, there are a lot of girls in orphanages.. boys too believe it or not.. but even if the number is a million (I've heard anywhere from 100,000 to 500,000)...it's still a very small percentage of the population in general. China is a big country with a population over 1.3 BILLION people..... the orphanages are not as crowded as they used to be either.. with a growing economy in China more families are able to afford to pay the fine for a second child.. in rural areas families are allowed to have a 2nd child if the first is a girl...many times if that 2nd child is a girl her birth may not be registered..sometimes those second daughters do end up in orphanages...in the cities there does not seem to be a preference one way or another...and China gives a subsidy to families that have daughters.. the numbers for girls has actually increased in the past couple years... also as there is a new middle class forming in China they have seen families adopt some of the Chinese orphans.....these days a lot of the babies coming to the orphanages are the undocumented children that need medical care..no other way to care for them.. Katie's orphanage is all special needs now.. Lizzie's orphanage used to do a lot of adoptions a month, now they do a small about a year...times are changing in China.. ... And please don't say they hate girls in China...... it's such a complex situation...and even with 10 years of studying this there is so much I don't know and don't claim to know but I cringe every time I hear this and I never want my girls to say this... the majority of the people of China LOVE children.. all children..that's what brought about the One Child policy.. too many children, they were growing too fast... They really aren't that different from you or I.. lots of good people.. but some bad ones there too.. would you want all of China to judge all Americans based on Casey Anthony or Susan Smith? .. how many times have we heard reports in this country about a baby found in a dumpster? I wouldn't say Americans hate babies....just something to think about....need to get back to my new poodles...hard to type with my laptop on the arm of the couch...but the girls have my lap :)
Anita
-

http://ethicsalarms.com/2010/12/08/unicefs-unethical-war-against-international-adoption/
Anita... and this too
-

http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/red-thread-adoptive-family-forum/2010/nov/30/unicefs-effective-attack-inter-country-adoption/
Anita...read this for why adoptions are down
-

Just horrible, I guess they are hoping one day men can give birth! Or perhaps they think people develop in a test tube only (though that would be a big tube)
Christine
-

I wonder if there has been an increase in abortions in China then -- gosh, I remember a 20/20 episode which was chilling showing the abortion of female fetuses in India just because males were the favored child because a female child meant they have to save money for her dowery. This world is still so archaic in so many ways when it comes to favoring males over females. I hope that whole thing flips around or at least evens out soon. Just how the heck did everyone get on this planet if it weren't for a female incubating them for 9 months??? Hmmm....???? And just where would our whole society be if not for Mother Earth?? Hmmmm....????
Diane
-

Janet - You're so funny! Yeah, me, too. I share your feelings about that.
Diane
-

Janet, I think all overseas adoptions have tightened greatly after several incidents, especially that little Russian boy the mother sent back after several years. As for China, probably the lack of female births has slowed adoption.________________________________ I, for one, am glad the troops are coming home, I wish it could be all, but its a start.
Christine
-

Are all the troops really coming home from Iraq by the end of the year? Really? Obama says so . . . . it can't happen soon enough. Next, bring them all home from the middle east. Soon. I'm patriotic and I support our troops, but not the conflicts where they've had to serve. End of political message. Back to our regular programming.
Janet
-

One reason Americans were able to adopt Chinese girls was that they filled the orphanages. Now I understand it's much more difficult to adopt them. I wonder why?
Janet
-

It is just beyond words for me to even try to understand.
christine
-

Christine - Yes, interesting what will happen when all the boys have no girls to marry. A society cannot get rid of half of itself and still expect to thrive.
Diane
-

I just saw the video of the mother and father finding out their child was hit. Oh my God. They really loved her so much and were beyond upset. The mother fell right to the ground in grief. And, in China, it means a LOT to keep a girl child so these parents were unusual. Christine, yes, that van stopped and then continued to drive over her again with his back tires!! And another truck comes along and runs over her again! It seems like the parents were at a nearby shop. The mother kept hitting herself in the head with her fists - she must feel so guilty for letting her child wander off. Yes, I hope this DOES make a change in laws in China. Look at the sick society that gov has created with making people too scared of losing all their savings for going to jail being accused of causing the crime. The garbage lady had nothing to lose and didn't even think that way so bless her heart. Another woman came right after since the lady moving trash was small and unable to carry the child. The other woman scooped up her rag-doll-like form and rushed away with her. I don't think that was the mother, though, because the clothing was different.
Diane
-

I've heard about them not having the Good Samaritan law, but it looks like this incident will put that into effect. I thought I read that the mother was at work nearby or something. Still, if you hit a child with your car stop! Or if you are passing by and don't want to get too involved at least call the police or authorities of some sort. _________________ Interesting about the lack of girls.... what are all the guys going to do when there are no women to marry?
Christine
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Ack, sorry I made so MANY typos in that first post! Didn't even proofread.
Diane
-

Also, as we know, there are not very many girls in China at all anymore because most all the parents want a boy because they still go by the old tradition that the son AND the wife take care of the boy's parents -- and not hers at all! There was a 60 Minutes show on it once, and in a classroom there was only one girl and all the rest were boys. The boys said they miss the girls and when they see one, they can't help but keep looking at her because they never see them. And here was one little girl -- but where were her parents since she was only 2? Didn't they care about her? I would like to know what the video shows about just how this tot got in a place where she would get hit by cars.
Diane
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Christine -- I know, what a tragedy. It was like she didn't even count. However, I read also another possible reason why the passersby didn't help. In China, there are no good samaritan (sp?) laws and people are afraid to get in trouble which could land them in jail. A recent example was a story of a man who stopped to help another man who felt to sick while was walking and didn't think he could make it back one. So the first man got his car and drive the second man(who was not well) back to his home and family. First man was ARRESTED for (get this) "Operating an unlicensed taxi service" !!!! This is why people in China are reluctant to help each other. The gov. over there treats the people so horribly and seems so heartless. Never mind that this guy did NOT charge a fee to the sick man for bringing him home, he was arrested anyway.
Diane
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you really wonder what the heck is wrong with people today...i can't believe no one tried to help her by at least calling for help.
lisag
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Not sure if you had all heard about the 2 year old girl in China who was run over twice and repeatedly ignored by passersby as she lay bleeding in the street. I just read the poor little one has passed away. How heartbreaking! I had so hoped and prayed she would make it. All those people who left her out there are just as responsible for her death as those who ran her over.
Christine
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Lindsey Lohan is a mess. ITs a shame because I thought she showed quite a bit of promise. Look at the paragon of parents she was raised by! No wonder she is such a mess. And yes, she needs to do jail time. She is old enough to know right from wrong. I mentioned that I wouldn't be surprised to see her reach an early end like Amy Winehouse.
Christine
-

Lisa, had me some of that ice cream last week. Wasn't bad, but I won't go out of my way to get it again. Be careful if you get it. They have two different kinds of balls in it and one is a lot harder than the other type. Could hurt a tooth if you are not aware. Saw what I believe is their first pumpkin ice cream ever tonight, Pumpkin Cheesecake. I checked their "Dearly De-pinted" listing and saw nary a mention of pumpkin...ever.
Mike
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ROTFLOL!!! I don' know if I could eat this, but it's pretty funny. http://www.benjerry.com/flavors/feature/schweddy/
LisaG
-

Is it just me or does anyone else wish they would just throw Lindsay Lohan's butt in jail and leave here there for at least a year? Love this story quote... "The report says Ms. Lohan has reached a turning point in her accountability and maturity," Holley [Lohan's attorney] argued, while the less-than-impressed Judge scoffed: "Failing to show up nine times [to the shelter] is reaching a turning point in her maturity?"
LisaG
-

Christine -- Yes, how quickly that little boy could have been taken. I get mad when people are so lax about leaving their pets in hot cars or even tied outside a supermarket -- and no wonder -- look how they are with even their children.
Diane
-

Just this afternoon, a child was crawling under the shelves, I saw a gentleman seated reading a book next to him and thought that was the dad. Minutes later the actual dad, whom I had not seen anywhere around the child, carrying him around. Delightful.
Christine
-

My son loved to sit in his umbrella stroller wherever we went and read a book or play with a toy. He never wandered off or ran off. I remember the first time I let him look at video games while I went into the next aisle. He had to have been around 9 and I was nervous!
Christine
-

Christine - I completely understand about your employee rules there and not being able to say something directly to warn those parents. It sounds like the library has done everything short of putting up signs about it but people just don't listen. It is SO SAD when I see parents of young children so absorbed on their palm units or laptops, that they don't pay any attention to their children at all. Don't they realize how precious they are?? Don't they realize how many kidnappings happen in this country on a daily basis and the children are never seen again?? Poor little innocent children. If I ever had a child, people used to get so mad at me when I would tell them I would hook my child up with one of those tot-leash things that attaches to their suspenders. I wouldn't care what people think, I've got my kid at the end of that leash and that's all I would care about in public area.
Diane
-

He reportedly said to one of his captors: what have I done to YOU?
Janet
-

They already have the death photos out. Amazing. I knew when they said he was dead but wouldn't confirm it, he was dead!
Christine
-

Reuters has confirmed the death of Ghadafy (ssp?)
Janet
-

Not officially confirmed: Ghadafi has been killed. It is confirmed that he has been captured, however.
Janet
-

Oh Lisa that is hysterical! And the music is so perfect!!
Christine
-

Nope. Same version. Y'all do have to check out this vid.
Mike
-

Yeah Lisa, love that video!! Whomever did it did a great job with the music and timing. I think there's a longer version out there. Could have sworn I first read of it here, but guess not.
Mike
-

This video is an absolute riot...be sure to have sound on and full screen the picture! http://www.carbonated.tv/wow/kitten-scared-of-two-apples
LisaG
-

And I just saw two parents on their laptops busy at work, not looking up as there 2 or so year old is running around! I did approach the parents and put it as "he is so small and cute, I would hate for anything to happen to him" I saw him run off and they didn't even look up. What is up tonight??
Christine
-

WE have cameras, we have handouts regarding unattended children and we have a policy against it. As I type this we just had a wandering tot no mom in sight, then the mother minutes later hysterical looking for her. She managed to get lost from 2 adults and 2 siblings! This is the third time we have had this happen today! You can't turn your back a moment. We can't really say anything on my part (security handles it) as we could get in trouble for "overstepping" our boundaries. Security gives the lecture on these issues. As for that man, unless a witness says something, I can't go under a heresay.
Christine
-

Christine - Do you have a videocamera in the library. I would ask someone who has seen that man come in every day to point him out to you or someone in management. The police should look at the video because he could be a pedophile with a record like Garrido was. They are not supposed to be anywhere near children but they can find ways around that by visiting libraries and going in sections where children might be. This man could have kidnapped before and even killed so I really think that library (and all public places) should have signs telling parents to keep their children closeby at all times.
Diane
-

Christine - Oh my gosh, Christine, how scary a man came into the library to coax a child to go with him! These parents need to realize that pedophiles could be anywhere and often go where children might be. You might want to give a quiet and concerned warning to a parent about that next time their little one is running off by themselves. Maybe the library should put up a sign for parent to please NOT leave their children unattended. This is very serious for the well-being of that child. People here who go in stores and tie their dogs up outside often need to get told that dogs thefts are rampant and their dog could end up in a dog fighting ring. I will someones do it in a very concerned way and it goes better that way. Some people just don't THINK.
Diane
-

The Broadwayworld website needs a proofreader check this headline "Peter Hermann, Mariska Hargitay Adapt Baby Boy"
christine
-

WE have wee ones so often on their own. We also have parents come to the desk asking us if we saw their child. I'm being paid to work and assist people, not run after children. Its a library, granted, but it is open to all. I have heard rumors that one gentleman who comes in everyday, was seen trying to lure a child outside. The child didn't go, thank God, but the person who saw it never reported it.
Christine
-

Christine - It's maddening watching so many parents let their kids go free and wild in public places. Like you said, ANYONE could be there and it's not a babysitting place where everyone is watching your kid for you. I live on a busy street, and I can't tell you how often I see a toddler running down the sidewalk or a little guy on his bicycle on the sidewalk just 3 feet from the busy street -- and dad is WAAAAAAAAY behind that I rush to the window and crane my neck to see that he's there. Their kid could be on the street in a second and they couldn't get there in time to save them!
Diane
-

Janet - Sure was and is an amazing young woman, isn't she? I feel for her reading romance stories as she was never able to have a boyfriend or a date or a first real romantic kiss and she dreams of finding that special someone. She does have doubts, though, that she can ever let someone touch her again. And, sadly, I read that adults with this kind of childhood abuse most always are not able to have romantic adult relationships. But she still says she is ok if it never happens because she will still be happy. Being free must be the most wonderful feeling so she will always have that. Yes, and how she raised those girls as structured as she could with their studies, etc. and how she was denied hearing the word "mommy" coming from their lips because they made them think demented Nancy was their mother. The one saving grace is that she still has her life and was able to see her mother again because so many stolen children lose their lives in this kind of situation. At least he never took that from her and she was able see her mother again and her mother was able to see her again (no thanks to the parole board!). Yup, thank God for those 2 campus police women.
Diane
-

Mike - Ok. I look forward to reading about the surreal clean-up.
Diane
-

Mike, that is really creepy. I always say you don't know the real story about the people you may see regularly. At the library, people let their children roam free and I just want to shake them ad say "this is a public building, you do not know who can be walking around in here!". The book is a hard read. I barely could get through it I felt so bad, but she is one remarkable young woman.
Christine
-

Diane, I have been back wat work since about 10 days afetr the flooding. Many were at work 4 days after, and all were 17 days after. FEW were doing their normal jobs. My guess is 95% (of 1,300) were in the recover phase the first week or 10 days. Recovery meaning extracting and cleaning the stuff pulled out of the building. There were also about 600 to 800 workers from other facets of the recovery, including the military. I stil lwant to find the time to write up something describing all I and others did and what I witnessed at our plant. Very surreal.
Mike
-

It is a hard read, and it makes you so angry that the probation people failed Jaycee again and again by not doing their job and not really investigating the guy and the back yard . . . . inexcusable. And it was two women campus cops at Berkeley who immediately knew something was wrong with the "family" and separated them for interviews. THEY had instincts and listened to them. One of the things that amazes me is how well Jaycee raised her daughters in that back yard. Set up schedules and school periods and taught them what she knew. She's remarkable. Her "rehab" has been a fascinating process but I'll wait until you read that part to comment further.
Janet
-

MIKE - LOL! on the Maytag repairman! I'm glad you are back to work, anyway, and I sure hope the rest of your co-workers can make it back to work at some point. What a tough tough Christmas material-wise this will be for so many families. Maybe we can go back to hand-making gifts in families for each other like they did long ago. You are going to be one well-read, man, Mike! Yup, Jaycee's book is tough in so many parts. I can't imagine having to live through that and for so long.
Diane
-

MIKE - Wow, how creepy that your young niece used to have the Garridos as customers. It is all such a tragic inexcusable shame that those two people walked around for so many years - nearly 2 decades - while no one knew they were harboring a prisoner and that prisoners 2 children born in captivity. Since she never saw Jaycee or the girls that goes along with Jaycee saying how rare they ever got out of that backyard.
Diane
-

Gosh, something else on Jaycee. I do not think I ever told you all this. My brother and his family live in the town right next to where Jaycee was held captive all those years. The scariest part of THAT is, my 16-year-old niece Jennifer worked in a frozen yogurt place and the second she saw a picture of Garrido and his wife Nancy she recognized him as a regular customer. She does not think that Jaycee and her daughters were ever in the place as Garrido and the wife almost always got a lot of it to go and rarely sat in the place to eat it. She just never recalled seeing them with what could have been JayCee and her daughters.
Mike
-

Oh, another thing on the book. Interestingly, and very helpful, while she writes this book primarily in chronological order from what she can recall being her perspective and thoughts at her age of that section's timeframe (i.e. written through an eleven-year old's eyes in the beginning), in most sections she has a "Refections" area, where she, well, reflects back to it from today's perspective. I imagine it will get quite interesting in the Reflections regard when she give birth for the first time (at 14?). I just got to that part last night when I stopped for the evening.
Mike
-

Hey all. Work for me (not everyone, not by a long shot) has slowed down to the point where I am now on on loan for Security Detail in the same vein as the Maytag Repaiman...the loneliest guy in town. In a HUGE warehouse (while maybe not this big, but think the last scene of Raiders Of The Lost Ark) on 2nd shift, guarding stuff while being the only person in the building most of the night. Gotta tell ya, the iPad sure comes in handy for this assignment! Not being much of a book reader, I decided to download some books to read. WHen I typically bought books in the past, they'd be either biographical/autobiographical in nature or a book a movie I liked was based upon. This time I went with something totally different, and I downloaded Jaycee Dugard's book, A Stolen Life. I knew it would be a rough read and it turns out it sure is. A few times I felt I just couldn't keep reading what this absolute creep did to her. But I did. She lived this horror, so I can *read* it. Got through about a third of it last night. Can't say if I reccommend the book or not, I don't really think it's that kind of book where one says "you have to read this!". We all know or at least can imagine what she went through, and only you can decide if it's something you feel you want or even can read. Of course this is all from a male persepctive, I really cannot of course speak for the female side nor can really figure what all of your feelings and thoughts are on this in regards to reading the book.
Mike
-

I missed DWTS last night, but saw the recap with JR Martinez. Wow! Did he move or what!
Christine
-

Mike - we'll be buried until May if it snows like it rained. Meanwhile, I'm enjoyng the waning Indian Summer. Today was one of the nicest of the year. This week is supposed to be lovely.
Ca
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Mike - I know...I'm hoping I don't have to take out the roof rake at all this winter!
LisaG
-

Mike, I agree... the weather has been very odd. I heard yesterday how the fall colors are muted this year as it has been so warm in our area. I was wearing shorts last week!!
Christine
-

Thanks LisaG (woolly bear info). After the very wet August, September and October (so far) we've had, the thought of what that continued rate of precip would mean in November, December and January scares the %#&@ing hell out of me. Literally.
Mike
-

I want a freezing cold winter here in the south. I'm tired of the heat. I need plenty of snow to break down my hated for heat and the sun!
Puck
-

And I have been hearing it will be a BAD winter! I think I prefer to believe the caterpillar!
Christine
-

Woolly Bear caterpillar siting...my mom said she saw a woolly bear caterpillar while walking today in the park and he/she had a very thick brown stripe in the middle of the black ends...nearly an inch wide! I looked it up online and they say "According to legend, the wider that middle brown section is, the milder the coming winter will be. Conversely, a narrow brown band is said to predict a harsh winter." Sounds good to me! After last winter, we could use a break!
LisaG
-

It was perfect! WE did go on fall colors weekend and the place was mobbed. WE joked about getting to our restaurant at 4 (when he opened) and being the first ones there, but we ended up getting the last table. I'm tired, full and happy.
Christine
-

Christine - sounds like a lovely day...enjoy!
LisaG
-

Gorgeous day out! We are going for a hike at Starved Rock! Then dinner at the best restaurant ever, Ron's! Need to make up the lost calories ;-)
Christine
-

Diane, there were many years I would end up dumping out his Halloween candy. __________________________ And yes, alcohol has alot of sugar. I think Vodka is one of the few that doesn't.
Christine
-

@Diane- I know, about the cravings of our mothers. Your post made me smile. Mydaughter ate everything when she was preggers with Sophia. Now Sophia can pick out the veggies in my V8 Splash drinks.
rebecca
-

Christine - Oy, your son must have been a gourmet diner in France in his last life or something to like such things at an early age! Yeesh, frogs legs? Ack, shudder big time! LOL! on your husbands sweet tooth. I hope he doesn't get diabetes one day. Your son sounds like a childhood friend I had. My sister and I would swallow up a candy bar or Ring Ding in a second, but this girl would keep her Easter and Halloween candy until July. And her Ring Dings were never eaten and had time for the creme inside to turn into a clear gel. She ended up dying of alcoholism, though, as an adult and I hear there is a lot of sugar in alcohol, isn't there?
Diane
-

She really is an elegant, beautiful woman.
Christine
-

Did you see Michelle Obama's latest gown? Check yahoo. It is gorgeous and she really carries it off. I imagine Obama felt like second fiddle . . . .
Janet
-

there are some highlights on yahoo. I will have to check them out.
Christine
-

if you wait a few days, the show should be available online to watch at... http://www.cbs.com/late_night/late_show/
lisag
-

I wish I would have watched!
Christine
-

Hilarious moment on Letterman tonight. President Clinton is the only guest, and he said "One of the best things about America is that we don't resent others success" to which Letterman replied "Uh, what about Leno?". It left Clinton speechless and brought the house down. Love this show when he has politicians on. ALWAYS a good and fun watch. My fave was Al Gore (when he was VP) and he demonstrated to Dave how the White House ashtrays had a manufacturing rule that they could only break into 4 pieces (or whatever) maximum. It had something to do with safety, secret service etc. VP Al took out a hammer, put on goggles and a safety/work bib, put a nail to the ashtray, struck the nail and viola, the ashtray broke into three or four pieces. Dave quipped someting along the lines if this kind of testing was a normal part of the VP job description and Gore replied that stuff like this is pretty much what he does all day. Was hilarious!
Mike
-

Diane, I can't remember much that I ate when I was pregnant with my son. He has always had such a good palette. He taught me about sushi! AT age 7 or 8! He ate frog legs at around 5 years old... I still can't get myself to do that.... when he was born, I had read that when introducing food, you should start with veggies then fruits otherwise they won't want the veggies. His first meals were squash and carrots. To this day he rarely eats dessert. My husband claims something is not right with him when he can let a candy bar sit all week. DH will eat it the same night. He has a big sweet tooth. The other morning he had pop tarts, ice cream and a brownie for breakfast!
Christine
-

Cat, very true... the audience does get to vote. This has never been only about the dancing, but about the personalities as well. Even though I was shocked last night, I just try to enjoy the show for what it is. If the celebs are out there trying, having a good time and have a good attitude, its fine with me. It is entertainment! I survived enough American Idol shockers and have finally come to that conclusion!
christine
-

I read something this morning in the Whole Life Times magazine that was so interesting. It said that studies have shown that babies actually develop a taste for certain foods according to what their mothers ate in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy because they actually can taste the amniotic fluid. They gave mothers in their 3rd trimester carrot juice every day and the second group just drank water. When the babies were 6 months old, they gave them cereal mixed with water or carrot juice. The babies who tasted carrot juice in the womb really enjoyed their cereal with the carrot juice much more than the babies whose mothers didn't drink carrot juice when they were pregnant. So it said what you ate in those months largely determines what the toddler wants and could influence food habits for their entire life. No wonder my mother and I would look at each other with excited delight when we ate things like cabbage or pickled herring. I couldn't get enough. She must have eaten them when she was pregnant with me. With my sister, she must have eaten red steaks and ring dings.
Diane
-

Christine - Chaz must be so happy he's still there! I need to go to Youtube to watch some of their dance numbers. I just saw the first one.
Diane
-

jennifer: happy birthday to you! Visit us once in a while!
Janet
-

diane - i have it down as the 12th of oct.
lisa g.
-

HI all - I too am watching DWTS, and would like to have seen other dancers leave earlier. BUT - that's why the fans get a vote. Some of the dancers just don't have a big fan base, so they go. It's too bad about Chynna, she really could have gone farther, but she did make a big mistake. Look at Kirstie Alley - she overcame those mistakes, but she has a huge fan base.
Cat
-

I took the fastest shower of my life! lol! ___________________________ Happy birthday Jennifer!!____________________________ Diane, Chaz is still there.
Christine
-

Christine - ugh, that sounds like that was a horrible shower experience. I remember that from when we would go to a cabin on vacation as a kid and the shower curtain used to do that. What a horrible feeling for that heavy plastic wet curtain to blow in on you and stick to you.
Diane
-

Janet - Is Chaz still on or have they been booted off already?
Diane
-

Lisa - Is her birthday today? I thought it was tomorrow?
Diane
-

Happy Birthday, Jennifer...wherever you are!
LisaG
-

I have to agree, last night was a shocker. No offense to those who stayed, but the person who left shouldn't have. And I don't think Derek and Ricki should have gotten 10s so soon. JR Martinez was excellent and should have scored higher.
Christine
-

Drat! Does anyone else think the wrong people are being voted off on DWTS? I'm also confused by the judges' comments praising less than stellar performances that even I can see aren't that praiseworthy. Derek and Ricki? Definitely stunning, deserving of top marks. That music was nearly impossible but he did it and she could follow him! Fun to see Julianne back for a performance. Can Rob Kardashian remind us one more time that he's a college graduate? What else is on his resume?
Janet
-

I usually have no problem with the ones from the dollar store near me, but they recently changed their name and must have gotten cheaper ones.... I now have magnets and was able to take a comfortable shower this morning!
Christine
-

Christine - I buy the heavy weight liners from Bed, Bath and Beyond...they last a very long time and are nice and thick, so they stay put when showering. What a gorgeous weekend, especially today! It was so nice, I decided to take a vacation day tomorrow, Monday, to enjoy the last dregs of this India Summer. I think I'll head to the nursery and get some mums and maybe try some ornamental cabbages...they're so kewl. :)
LisaG
-

Christine- I always buy the linen ones so I don't need magnets or the outer one. I love them. Janet- I have a lovely bag from the Utah Shakespeare festival. It's painted burlap with big wooden handles. It has those well known painted faces of laughter and sadness. I can't remember what they are called. Comedia del Arte?
rebecca
-

I learned a valuable lesson today--- to stop buy shower curtain liners at the dollar store. It has no magnets and is a big shorter then the others... when I went to shower it was blowing into the shower/tub and I had it clinging to me as I tried to bath. Needless to say I went out and bought a new one--- with magnets!
Christine
-

It was. I always love going to the festival. They have an outdoor theater modeled after the Globe and actors love being there. Ground will soon be broken for a new outdoor theater - this one with a retractable roof so no rain delays or moving to the auditorium in case of rain.
Janet
-

That is a pretty good line up!
Christine
-

Utah Shakespeare Festival Fall Season gets A + from me. The Winter's Tale, Dial M for Murder, Noises off. Great seminars and orientations, too. To top it off, a little snow! Hmmm. They are making changes to next year's already published schedule. Wonder what's going on?
Janet
-

Great story here! 16 year-old girl is now driving the car she was born in. http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2011/10/06/dnt-sweet-16-car.wcpo
Mike
-

Joy Behar is 69? I thought she was in her early 50s!
Christine
-

I so agree.
Christine
-

Wow...what a shame...he was only 56! Imagine the things he could have come up with if he'd lived longer.
LisaG
-

RIP Steve Jobs.. the Thomas Edison of our generation, a brilliant man. May he rest in peace.
Anita
-

Christine - Wow, he sure IS an amazing soul! And how sweet he is!
Diane
-

It really is. I was so reminded of New England. We didn't research as good as we should have though. ON Sunday we went to Holland and almost all the stores were closed. On Monday we went to Muskegon and the two museums we were interested in seeing were closed! Though that was kind of a last minute decision to go there.
Christine
-

If anyone wants to see "The Book Of Mormon", someone posted the live show on YouTube in 9 parts. ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vic_1f8Ab7k&feature=related ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMTWJhkwe24&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQh6F0pIfkE&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNlxsbTs4oM&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKlGMqb8Hbg&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rw5uaHXE-bw&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjTaRde1kHc&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tb6BIRup9sQ&NR=1 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPproygW10o&NR=1
lisag
-

Christine - That is a beautiful area of MI.
kmp
-

What an amazing boy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfL2U0BJ48g
kmp
-

LOL at "Les Mis" without music. In my field, we call that "a book by Victor Hugo".
Puck
-

Here are a couple of videos of R. Crowe singing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e5hIu6fvC8&feature=related; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnsNjXFwW74&feature=related
kmp
-

kmp, we stayed in Grand Haven... we visited Muskegon (Buster Keaton!!!), Holland and Saugatuck as well. The beaches were incredible! It was cool but sunny the whole time and most importantly not crowded. The Best WEstern we stayed at was fantastic and we ate well.
Christine
-

Well, I know Jackman can sing, but Russell Crowe? Then again, wasn't he in a band, so maybe yes. But Anne Hathaway as Fantine??? That's a very difficult part to sing.
LisaG
-

Christine - where in Western MI? My husband & I love that area of MI.
kmp
-

From the articles that I have read it is indeed going to be a musical adaptation of Les Miz. Cameron Mackintosh is going to be overseeing the movie adaptation of his musical. http://www.broadway.com/buzz/157626/russell-crowe-confirmed-for-les-miserables-movie-release-planned-for-december-2012/
kmp
-

Les mmis with no music?????? awwwwwwwww.
Janet
-

this is pretty funny... http://wimp.com/nasasatellite
lisag
-

Just got back from vacation! 3 days in Western Michigan on the lake. Gorgeous area! And super expensive homes!! It was really neat to be on a beach that isn't salt water (I never go to Chicago beaches, so it was a new thing for me.)
Christine
-

Oh bummer...it's not a musical. I can't be with Russell Crowe as Javert and Anne Hathaway as Fantine. Not sure how I feel about that.
LisaG
-

Janet - The Les Miz movie with Jackman is the musical? Kewl!!! The remake they did with Liam Neeson was horrible.
LisaG
-

Lily Tomlin is on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. She's 72 and she looks AMAZING!!!!!!!!! I want to know what moisturizer she uses or the name of her plastic surgeon!
LisaG
-

uh, the last 2 sentences were mine.
Janet
-

Wow! LOS ANGELES, CALIF. -- CaptionHugh Jackman is no stranger to countless hours in the gym and shoveling heaps of protein in his mouth for his roles, but for the upcoming big screen version of the musical “Les Miserables,” the actor will enjoy some dietary freedom. “Tom Hooper from ‘The King’s Speech’ is directing it,” Hugh told AccessHollywood.com’s Laura Saltman at the “Real Steel” Los Angeles premiere on Sunday when asked about his next project. “I’m very excited about that.” The actor, who plays Jean Valjean in the musical, is looking forward to letting go of his usual big screen beefcake status. “I have to kind of age 19 years during the movie, which is pretty much how you feel during a movie, so it should just be all natural,” Hugh explained. “But this time, instead of eating steamed chicken during the movie, I’ll just eat whatever I want. Perfect. You’ll see me at the craft table!” Fans might also be seeing the actor in another musical setting. “Someone asked me the other day if I would be on ‘Glee’, and I said, ‘Yeah.’ I’m trained to say yes to everything.’ We’ll see,” he said. “[Matthew Morrison] is fantastic. I’m a big fan of his… I’ll use [Les Mis] as a warm up [for ‘Glee.’]” “Les Miserables” is slated to hit the big screen in December 2012. I hope it's spectacular as it's my all-time favorite musical. Heavy vocal load, too . . . .
Janet
-

Well, DWTS really rocked tonight. I really want everyone to win. JR was incredible. Sometimes the judges (often) forget to compliment the pros and their choreography. ..........
Janet
-

Diane - not quite as cold here in CT as in PA...that snow must have been at a higher elevation. Then again it's been in the mid to upper 40's overnight lately...good sleeping weather. :)
LisaG
-

YAY! Amanda Knox is free!
LisaG
-

CAT - LOL! on Max's comment! Yeah - remember it and ask that of him in about 5 or 6 years. 31! Wow, how nice to have such a small graduating class!! I'm so glad you had a good time seeing everyone again. My class size was 635. YUCK. I've never gone to a reunion because we never got that warm feeling of being in the same class. The same cliqued group goes to the reunions and when I see the "no shows" list, I see all the kids I was friends with back them.
Diane
-

Lisa - Sounds like you have a good set up there. Bless you for feeding the hungry birds in the cold. Did you have any snow flurries? Amazing how it got so cold there -- and we finally got hot summer weather out here. It's hot as hell in the car.
Diane
-

Wow Cat! 31? That IS small. You'd have to be a world champion wallflower to ever get a "I don't remember you." from a classmate. :-)
Mike
-

They graduated 31. I switched schools junior year. That class had 100. A number of us left the first school and more came after I left. Still, pretty small. Great group of people, though.
Cat
-

Cat, how small was your graduating class? I've known people that thought their class was small (like 650) until I told them mine was 156. I've known people from senior classes of 35 and others from senior classes of 1,400. It's all relative :-)
Mike
-

Lisa, hear ya on the snow! At work I WAS prepared for snow last night as the predictions earlier in the week were for a low of 31 last night, but luckily it only went to 39 for the low. Tonight we'll have a low of a balmy 45 or 46 so I'm confident I won't see any white stuff tonight.
Mike
-

HI all - went to a high school reunion last night and night before. Friday was drinks with a larger group, and Saturday was dinner just for my class. What fun to see so many classmates. We had a pretty small class - but everyone was so friendly. Everyone looked great, too. Got home both nights around 12. Max was wondering if I could stop going out now. I can't wait until it's his turn to be out.
Cat
-

ugh! there = they're...sheesh!
lisag
-

there saying some towns in western PA are going to get SNOW (!!!) tonight! If so, it will be the earliest recorded snowfall in recorded history for that area. Yeow! I've been getting a LOT of birds at my 2 fat cake feeders and I wonder if the weather is affecting their food sources. I've been going through a fat cake a week, so I bought a bigger one that I can load four fat cakes into and it allows feeding on both sides. The boyz love it...they sit on the kitchen table and peer out the window and get all excited about the birds they'll never be able to catch! ;)
LisaG
-

Yikes, that's cold Mike!!!! 39 degrees on Oct 1?? Seems like that part of the country got cold and we suddenly got HOT.
Diane
-

10/1, 21:00 - Lisa it's more than chilly! Working outside in a tent tonight until 2am. Most nights it was OK but right now it's like 39 here. Hopefully during the week I'll post about the recovery process here at work. its amazing what is going on here. like a scene from several movies all rolled into one. and the cost. estimates say to get us back to where we were before the flood will be between 1.5 to 2 billion dollars. probably more if we have to move in the end.
Mike
-

Wow was it chilly today! It flipped to fall from summer in overnight! But I love this time of year, where you need just a light jacket to be comfortable. I just saw a preview of a new Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock movie...it looks great. http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/extremely_loud_and_incredibly_close/
LisaG
-

Oh, I remember Rosemary Harris, who is (was) a very good actor, too.
Janet
-

Happy freaking October. :-( Can't believe it. Ugh.
Mike, the years be flying by WAY too fast...
-

Jennifer Ehle is her name (from P&P). Her mother is Rosemary Harris who is also an actress. When I saw the ad for the new show I kept thinking that I had seen her somewhere and then I saw her name.
Christine
-

Aha! I knew I had seen that actress - beautiful in a nontraditional way - and there is a certain radiance about her. Something akin to "the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow." And speaking of fine eyes, Wilson has them, too. Very blue. He comes from a background on stage, sings very well, and his dad and brother are in TV news. He does a hilarious takeoff of "dinner with the Wilsons" where dad and bro pass the mashed potatoes as if they were a segue to a news story. Tonight's episode could have gotten too sentimental but refrained. Though it was quite heroic that the good doc could pause in the middle of brain surgery to do an emergency c section to save the mother's 26 week old fetus - - and both mother and baby are doing fine. That's a day's work! But Wilson's a high caliber actor and I hope the show does well. I think I'll skip Pan Am altogether because the implications are soooooooooo sexist - - at least they were at the time, and the show seems to capitalize on that.
Janet
-

I liked "Gifted Man" -- and the woman is Elizabeth Bennet from the Colin Firth "Pride and Prejudice"! She's still incandescent!..............Of the new shows, I also liked "Person of Interest" very much. I'm still unsure about "New Girl". I have "Suburgatory" taped but haven't seen it yet. I recorded "Charlie's Angels" for Sweetie's sake, but I have little hope for it. I watched "Pan Am", but I'm not feeling it yet -- everyone wants to capitalize on "Mad Men", but MM plays the sexism right, while Pan Am (and the Playboy Bunny show I assume) are using it gratuitously. I mean, MM reminds us that sexism really wasn't confined just to gorgeous women -- it was an endemic part of the culture, fed by both men and women's attitudes -- Pan Am (so far, at least) aims it at the gorgeous women, making you want to say, "well, OF COURSE, because she's so pretty!".
Puck
-

That's touching that the boys would respond to a mother figure. I hope they are safe now. I wonder if an arrest is pending, as Josh lost custody?
Janet
-

Just watched A Gifted Man tonight - Christopher Wilson is such a good actor. Hope the show gets a following. .................and today I learned that #2's baby-in-waiting is a boy. 21 weeks along, this pregnancy seems to be going much better than the last, but we are still counting the days, as the twins were soooooo early . . . . their little girl is doing very well. Behind, but making progress every day. She is so adorable. And too far away.
Janet
-

I think "affect" is used in different ways by different professions - it's just a term I'm used to . . . you just don't see emotion from Joshua. Not what you'd expect, anyway. What a sick upbringing he might have had, and yet he brings his kids to live with his dad? No wonder Susan's parents have fought so hard to get the boys. I hope she's a grandma with a huge heart- grandpa seems quite determined to be there, too, so I hope the boys get lots of love.
Janet
-

Janet - And I agree with you -- flat toned with no emotion --- can't believe him. I don't believe he's capable of loving anyone really -- just uses them. Those boys are a shield to him. So sad. Well, let's hope things keep getting better in this situation.
Diane
-

Thanks for explaining, Janet. I see exactly what you mean by his affects now. Sorry -- my brain was gone for awhile again. Yes, definitely a creepy place to live much less raise two little boys. They must miss their mother terribly. One cop said he was brought to tears when the got to that house with the search warrant and the two little boys were in the backyard. A female cop came with them, and the boys recognized her right away and ran to her and gave her big hugs. This cop said it brought tears to his eyes. How they must miss their mother and her loving energy. Now, I hope they can have some of that with their mother's mother and their mother's sister. SP's ex-wife lives in Utah and I read that Susan liked her very much. CHRISTINE -- Yes, you do wonder if those children were molested. He used to like to tell them about sex when they were only 5 or 6 years old - the sister Jennifer said. She also said it was in a creepy way and not in an informative way. That's abuse, no doubt about it.
Diane
-

With what you are all saying, it sounds like that whole family dynamic is sick. It begs to wonder if the father molested his own children at some point.
christine
-

by his affect I mean his facial expressions, etc. He is flat. "I loved my wife. I want my wife back. I did not kill my wife." Monotone. Doesn't use her name. Does that sound like a normal person? No emotion, no expression? Also, moved quickly back to Washington after his wife disappeared, says it was the police's job to find her. As in not making himself available to help. WHO DOES THAT? I'm saying he seems a little off. As in his personality is not what we might term "normal" by the behaviors we see. Taking the kids camping in a van in sub-zero weather at midnight. And his dad is a sicko. His sister holds him accountable for his wife's disappearance. Where is his mom, I wonder? Did you see the picture of the NOOSE in the basement? It's "art," they said. Well, a noose in the basement with little boys (who can be curious) is not acceptable. Even if they don't know what to do with it. Adults do. The message is scary. how many computers in the house??????? Sheesh. No wonder Susan's parents have been fighting for the kids, but why has it taken so long for all of this to come up? How could Josh live with a sicko dad and think it was a healthy place for his kids?
Janet
-

Oh, and I heard Susan only gave Josh a deadline on when he would get himself together or she was leaving him. There's some confusion on whether the deadline was the end of the year (3) weeks from her disappearance of their anniversary in April. I know, I need a life! I'm too into these things.
Diane
-

Christine - I read that Susan had told one of her friends that Josh was spending a LOT of time talking to his father on the phone lately. This was 3 weeks before her 'disappearance'. She said he was always talking to his father on the phone and for long periods. So yes, I think so, too. The father had something do with Susan's 'death'. He was obsessed with her and angry at her that he could not have her. He even wrote songs about missing her. SICK SICK SICK. THANK GOD those two little boys are with Susan's parents. I agree with Janet -- what took so long! One mentally-ill brother of Josh's walks around naked all the time. With two little boys around!
Diane
-

Janet - I noticed also that the judge ordered a psychological evaluation and a determination on whether he is a fit parent. At least that's what I heard and I hope it's true. What does it mean "Josh's affect is off"? So many have noticed what a liar he is. He's not good at it either. There is a list long of lies and inconsistencies. He tries and plays dumb and no one buys that. He said he didn't know about his father's desire for sick porn -- yet later when they talked about HIS computer, he said there was nothing bad on there -- oh, but, he says his father may have download some "stuff" to his. Oh BULL. There were 15 computers in that house. Also, if he shows awareness of porn being on his computer, he DID know about his father's habit! He also said he's been willing to talk to the police and FBI, and they say that is not true. They are calling his bluff, now, though, and are inviting him in and they will pay for his whole trip.
Diane
-

LOL. Today's OLTL had a definite Line Of The Century candidate. Today's show. Todd and Irene are on the docks, she has a gun on him. Todd does something that REALLY ticks Irene (his mom) off. Irene say : "You son of a bitch!". Todd: "Well said."
Mike
-

She really could dance in Hairspray and she probably was about 100 lbs more when she did the movie. And Chaz is like Bristol... not really a star, but then again there are plenty of people who have been on the show who aren't really "stars". I kind of expect those "fringe" people every season. I don't think DWTS is exactly stars but celebrites and psuedo celebs. There are stars who appear on the show, Kirsie Alley, Florence Henderson, Cloris Leachman, to name a few, but there are alot of questionable "stars" _______________________ Re: the Powell case... right, he had "no" idea his dad was into that stuff. A sick group of men in that family. One is a perv the other a killer. I wouldn't be surprised if the father was involved in the murder.
Christine
-

re Susan Powell: It appears that as Josh is a person of interest, the court has determined that the grandparents should have the children. What I don't understand is why it took so long. Josh's affect is off. It has always been. And he claims he didn't know anything about his father's hobby. I'm not buying that.
Janet
-

I didn't see her in Hairspray. She has good footwork and knows the performance angle as well. I think it's time for Chaz to go, poor guy. It seems that Laci has been a very good partner for him, adapting as much as she can to his abilities. Still, you have to ask, is he a star? I know that he's recently been the subject of a documentary and written a book about his life, but still? If Cher ever shows up to watch him, holy cow, will there be a stir! They don't get more super-starish than Cher. I think his celebrity is more like Bristol Palin's - he's a child of a famous person. I'm not sure before his gender reassignment if he did anything to make him famous? Poor guy, he's smiling while he's dancing, but there's pain in that smile! I understand Bristol has written her autobiography. Which always amuses me when a 20 year old does that.
Janet
-

Ricki Lake was wonderful dancing in Hairspray, so I knew she would adapt pretty quickly. I just love JR Martinez! Rob K. is also starting to grown in me. I can tell he is really trying. I agree about Chaz, I don't think his body will hold up (my knees wouldn't!), but I can see him sticking around longer, he has a fan base. Perhaps slower dancing would be easier on him?
Christine
-

that clip re DWTS was funny. Yep, we've had some notorious contestants (not that their legal issues are ever addressed when they're introduced "ex con - - and her partner" and some who didn't qualify as stars. re Chaz, I imagine he'll stay for a while because of audience votes but his body is just not up to it. I hope he'll get voted off soon so he can stop hurting! re Nancy Grace, she insists there was no wardrobe malfunction. Bergeron, ever the gentleman, quickly turned her around to adjust whatever, and the camera moved away and he quipped that on the european version, "that" wouldn't have been a problem. He's done that before with wardrobe malfunctions. And when I first saw nancy's costume, I thought, uh-oh, we're squishing too much in there.Maybe put a sheer panel to the neck so it's a little more . . . . secure? Chynna is a contender, very graceful. I didn't think she held back on the jive - left us wanting more, actually. Rikki Lake is a surprise, has good footwork and musicality and attitude. Rob Kardashian is growing on me a bit as he's trying, and working on self esteem. Imagine growing up in that household. But what is he famous for? Arquette is trying but doesn't have much rhythm. JR Martinez - what a delight. He's doing a great job and with that dazzling smile - - - well, I'm just really impressed. He says he's not well known but I think he's got lots of new fans. Karina is coaching him well. He's pretty athletic!
Janet
-

this is still the best lewis black segment ever ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1s4fj-5zlk&feature=related
lisag
-

Lewis Black is a riot...I don't know how Jon Stewart doesn't collapse from laughter.
LisaG
-

Yeah, it was really funny. Always liked Lewis Black. _____ OLTL, watching Brody and Clint, from a profile view, the actor portraying Brody looks a bit like Joe Lando to me. ___ Oh jeez...great move Todd, now Starr will have a crimminal record. Brilliant. Even a Llanview judge can't overlook this.
Mike
-

LisaG -- that was hilarious!!!
Puck
-

That is good news!
Christine
-

The Coxes get the kids (Susan Powell's parents).
Janet
-

For those of you that enjoy DWTS, you may enjoy this...I think it's absolutely hysterical: http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-september-22-2011/back-in-black---threats-to-america-s-children
LisaG
-

Christine: he gave me the creeps. Posted a love song to her on his website. Holy cow. I had assumed he was married, but he is single and that's even scarier. If Josh were to move out, I wonder if the court would still let him have his kids? I hope Susan's parents trump him. I really do. I've got a bad feeling about this.
Janet
-

ABC had an update on the Susan Powell case last night. They said her FIL had pictures of her that were obviously taken without her knowing! They showed him all smiley and slimey looking.
Christine
-

I usually don't watch SNL. I think I have seen bits and pieces over the last several years. Saw some Betty White, Justin Timberlake, and a bit of Alec Baldwin a few years back. I usually forget its on.
Christine
-

So here I be watching the DVR recording of the season premiere of Saturday Night Live, yawning uncontrollibly and not laughing once, even not suring Weekend Update, when they had this "25th Anniversary Edition Of Top Gun DVD" including unseen screen tests and it was pretty good. It's at the first URL. WHile looking online for it, I found another clip showing some that were not aired (it's what they showed at the dress rehearsal version). Aired tests - http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/top-gun-25th-anniversary-dvd/1358167 Bonus tests - http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/extra-bits/bonus-more-top-gun-screen-tests/
Mike
-

I hadn't watched AMC in years but I did watch several episodes last week, including the final one on Friday. One thing that got to me [having lost both my parents this spring] was something that Angie Hubbard said: "One day our family and friends will be gone and they won't be back. They'll be gone for good. What if that day were today?"
kmp
-

AMC has been picked up but Susan L. isn't going from what I read nor is the actor that plays JR. I think he either shot her or shot himself. You have to watch it, I found myself getting teary eyed a few times... so many old faces...
Christine
-

I'll have to catch that last episode of AMC on-line! I can't imagine how hard that must have been for long-time viewers. Is AMC also picked up by that cable station -- or was it just OLTL?
Diane
-

Thought they did a good job on AMC, actually. How do you wrap up 40 years? And Mike - never thought about the who JR shot angle!
Cat
-

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/52624724-78/dna-powell-wood-police.html.csp .............more info about the forensics re Susan Powell.
Janet
-

We had Target brand, white chocolate cranberry, this morning. Yummy!
christine
-

Ok, it's officially fall...Green Mt pumpkin spice flavored coffee is being served at the local gas station/mini mart! YUM! :)
LisaG
-

Poor kids, all this going on and they are in foster care. They need to be with her family. I'm sure the police are sitting on soemthing and just going making sure it can stick.
Christine
-

fyi...nathan fillion is on the late show with david letterman tonight.
lisag
-

The Cox's have petitioned for custody of the children. In it, there says something like "due to the impending arrest of Josh Powell". Makes you wonder if the police let them in on something about what might be coming next week. The boys are in foster care until next Wed. when it will be decided where the go from there.
Diane
-

Brody and Shane working together? ________________________________ The case thickens with Susan Powell, hopefully they can get something solid on the husband. Good Lord her FIL is a sick man. And he was claiming she was coming onto him? What a scum!
Christine
-

Can you imagine those two little defenseless boy in that home with that pervert??? Susan Powell had said she feared if something happened to her because she did NOT want her children around Steve Powell.
Diane
-

Christine: Maybe they'll re-think custody of Susan's children at least. Her FIL sounds like a sick guy.
Janet
-

Love the homage to Gone With the Wind in Erica/Jack ending. Not happy with the ending though.
Puck
-

Christine, I do think Brody killed Vic. Today's ep just shows Brody was not the one who knocked Jack out. I liked the All My Children finale. A little Gone With The Wind, a little Sopranos, a little Dallas.
Mike
-

It is a soap after all... there had to be a cliffhanger!! OL was interesting.... don't be so quick to blame Brody for Victor's death.
Christine
-

Interesting end to AMC. Instead of "Who shot JR?", they left us with "Who JR shot?"
Mike
-

http://abcnews.go.com/US/susan-powells-father-law-arrested-child-porn-voyeurism/story?id=14590503
Christine
-

It seems the meteorologist once played "nurse #1" on an episode of AMC. She was so cute, as they ended the newscast, she was crying.
Christine
-

My local ABC news had on the actor who played "Bobby Warner". I guess he is at a big bash in Chicago to watch the last episode.
Christine
-

Mike, too bad I missed that. I plan on watching today.
Christine
-

Christine, I've been half-watching AMC this week. Hadn't watched more than a half dozen eps this century until this final week on ABC. Sarah Michelle Geller was on Tuesday or Wednesday. Not sure if she was supposed to be her old character, but she was in a wheelchair in a hospital, perhaps the looney ward as she was going on about seeing vampires. :-)
Mike
-

Diane: I'm not sure what has led to these recent searches for Susan Powell, when it seemed dormant for so long. Someone told the media that remains had been found, were human, less than 1o years old, and that anthropologists were studying them. Well, not quite. There are areas search dogs are finding that have been "disturbed" at some point, but no actual remains have been found. Egg on faces of TV news reporters who were fed the wrong story. It's an area known to rock hounds, and I guess Joshua Powell liked to search for rocks. I think that's the only connection we've heard about.
Janet
-

Janet - Do you know why suddenly this summer the police are doing so much searching to try and find Susan Powell? Last summer, it didn't seem like they were doing anything at all about trying to find her. I wonder why the sudden push? Do you think they got new information or know something they aren't revealing yet? Or did Josh and his father's recent character-assassinating comments about Susan stir them up to try and find her body?
Diane
-

tomorrow is the last show, I plan on tuning in then. Was Sarah Michelle Geller on? I'm curious who she would be.
Christine
-

Watching AMC - I think this is the last week. Hard to believe. What's a riot is that practically everyone who died is coming back from the dead, in true soap fashion.
Cat
-

this video is super adorable if you love penguins...i especially loved 2:10 to 2:38 ----- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkY03n0_sD8
lisag
-

Mike - He does sound more like himself in that clip. If you watch a later clip of that same interview, though, see what you think. His voice gets very deep and, to me, doesn't sound like the Joe Lando I remember.
Diane
-

My husband, son and I went to one of those never ending skewers of meats restaurant for my birthday. We had a $25 gift certificate and a buy one dinner get one free for my b-day through their e-club, so we couldn't pass it up. We saved $79, so you can imagine it wasn't cheap to begein with. I don't want to look at red meat for about a week.
Christine
-

Thanks Diane!
Christine
-

Diane, I watched this one, which I think is about a eyar old and I don't think he sounds much different. The sound quality ain't the best, but that certainly sounds like Joe to me, especially when he's louder. A little different perhaps. Now, if I were blindfolded and you cut out Jane Seymour and played a "guess who", not sure I'd get it but that could happen with a lot of OLTL voices I have not heard in quite a while. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eViyp6uEGVY
Mike
-

Diane is exactly right. It's so expensive to make movies, they make crap they think are safe bets. CatCat
Cat
-

Best line of today's OLTL episode (Sept. 20th): Todd Manning (RH) to his mother Irene: "You make Joan Crawford look like Donna Reed!"......One of Irene's lines today was a nod to Norman Bates & his mother: "A boy's best friend is his mother."
kmp
-

Not only does Joe Lando look so different now --- where did his old voice go? This voice sounds nothing like it used to. Usually voices don't change this much. Go to Youtube and watch a recent interview and listen (if you haven't heard his voice lately). I don't think I would recognize him if I saw him and even heard him talk!
Diane
-

Happy Birthday, Christine!!
Diane
-

Lisa - The film industry in the US is one of the worst in the world. No imagination? YES! I worked with those people and they couldn't create their way out of a paper bag -- as my co-worker Marlene used to say. They think of movies as a MONEY DEAL and nothing more. They don't care about your stellar script that is GOOD or a whole stack of scripts that are good -- those are in the "NO PILE". The "YES PILE" consists of garbage -- sex sex sex and the "f" word in the first few seconds of the script and then every 3rd page thereafter. If sex sells, that's the movie they make. If a past movie like Gidget or Footloose made money, they make another one. Kills me when people thing they are writing a good story (and lots of times they are) and they just KNOW this is the script Hollywood is looking for. They aren't looking for anything except the same old stuff that proved to make money before. That's why I almost always only go to independently-made films or foreign films.
Diane
-

I know. The movie was fine just as it was.
christine
-

they remade the movie "Footloose"? really? does no one in hollywood have an imagination anymore?
lisag
-

Christine: my opinion, too. JR was so graceful, and so was Chynna. Loved the fashion guy. I don't know if Chaz is up to it physically, but Laci is the perfect partner for him. And I like the new pro, Tristan, and his Irish accent!
Janet
-

Well, he was fine after that play. The ball is far away from him. It's a good shot of how big the other team was, though. They lost again today. Max said he took a hit while tackling an opposing player. I think he's OK, but it's unsettling.
Cat
-

Darn I wanted to see 2 1/2 Men! WAtched DWTS, Chaz was pretty good. JR Martinez was wonderful and I really liked Chynna Phillips, but Clooney's ex can't dance! Wow! I did think she looks alot like the actress who plays Dani on OLTL.
christine
-

as i'm waiting for the season 2 premier of Hawaii Five-0, i decided to check out 2 1/2 Men...ashton was actually very good. :)
lisag
-

And Castle is back tonight, too!
puck
-

Excited to see DWTS tonight... for once I'm home on a Monday night to watch!!
Christine
-

I'm gobsmacked that neither Jon Hamm nor Elisabeth Moss won for Mad Men's "Suitcase" episode. It's one of the finest hours on television I've seen in a long, LONG time.
Puck
-

Janet, welcome back! Glad you had a good trip!__________ Did anyone catch teh Emmy's last night? I saw the a bit of it and then watched the last hour. Wow, does Kyle Chandler look nice or what? I can't believe he is my age! I was also surprise to see the woman from Mike and Molly who won is from the twon right next to mine (like less then a mile!).
Christine
-

Hello, home from San Francisco/Berkeley. Had a great weekend visiting #3 son. He likes his job and apartment and that was fun to see...........Cat, the first time I went to a game #2 played, and I heard the sound of two bodies colliding, I thought I might get sick. It's very different when you're the mom, no?
Janet
-

Holy canoli, FOUR guys headed all at once in Max's direction??!! That must be hard for a mother to watch, huh?
Diane
-

Holy cow, Cat! Its likea scene out of a horror movie!
Christine
-

If you want a good shot of the size differential, replace guestbook.html with football.jpg in the uRL bar. It's a wonder Max wasn't crushed.
Cat
-

With those factors, I would have been surprised if they won that one.
Diane
-

After you explained that I'm surprised no one was hurt! I hope all the teams they play aren't quite so "advanced"!
christine
-

That photo doesn't even do the size differential justice.
Cat
-

They lost 44-0. There were 25 players on the other team, ours ha 14. There were at least 5 of them close to or over 6 feet. One was over 6 feet and close to 200 pounds. Sheesh. They are all supposed to be 7-8 graders. They had fun, but it was a rout. I'm just glad no one was hurt.
Cat
-

Yow! There are some big kids in that picture! They might have lost, but hopefully he had fun!
Christine
-

I see what you mean, some of those kids are huge. Are they all the same approx. age?
Diane
-

Great photo of Max, Cat! So how does Max feel about playing today in general? Does he think he likes the sport? CHRISTINE - I'll bet you are right about them having to have a physical or some kind of health clearance before being on that show.
Diane
-

Well, the team got crushed, but the players survived! Some of those kids were HUGE!
Cat
-

I know, but I wonder if they have them take a physical before they do the show. No one wants to have someone fall over and die out on the dance floor. They just have to get some type of doctors clearance.
Christine
-

Christine - I hope this isn't too much a strain on Chaz because I don't imagine all those hormones are good for the heart. Losing weight from exercising, though, sounds good. He is too heavy. I worry about his heart. I hope he does well on DWTS!
Diane
-

CAT - Good luck to Max!! My nephew Sam also had started football but quit soon after because he didn't like "running into each other" part. Let us know how Max does!
Diane
-

How exciting! Good luck!
Christine
-

Max's first football game today. Exciting, but he's so small and the kids around here are so big and play so rough! Wish us luck!
cat
-

I have heard he is losing weight.
Christine
-

How is Chaz doing on DWTS?
Diane
-

I guess I didn't pay that much attention until I saw on tv just now that JR Martinez who is on DWTS plays Brot on AMC. Good for him! Perhpas Chaz Bono kind of erased the other contestants from my mind?? I must have been so focused on him being on.
Christine
-

omg, this is hysterical! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJ-YErKiUVo
lisag
-

I heard they are trying to get the IDs of the rescuers to honor them.
Christine
-

That video is so cute!
Puck
-

I meant to say - the children's MOUTHS (not Josh's) He says the police were putting words in his children's mouths.
Diane
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Janet - Yeah, Josh is really mad about that remark and is trying to say the pollice told him what to say and put words in his mouth. Many think this is why they've sequestered the boys away from anyone in the Cox family. That comment is very revealing because Josh obviously told it to his boys that very night -- which means he did NOT come home and find her gone -- he already knew she would never be home again when he had those boys out in the van. Let's hope they keep digging today and find something. The dogs say something's down there but they have to dig inch by inch I think, just like on archaelogical digs.
Diane
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They just showed a bit of the interview with the young man who was in the motorcycle accident. He really was so lucky!
Christine
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Mike, I saw that on the news yesterday!! How cute! I got a kick out of the "dress" comment!
Christine
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9/16, 6:30am - Gmorn all. Juat a quick post before I run off to work recovery/cleanup. Dunno if this video had been posted here, it went online in August, but it is a great one of a couple of grandparents tryying to figure out the webcam on their new computer, and they have no clue the camera is recording. Precious stuff here. http://youtu.be/FcN08Tg3PWw
Mike
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wouldn't it be interesting if one of the boys' innocent remarks (about mommy being where they went hunting for crystals) leads them to her remains? But if that is true, what did the boys see and what do they know? Were they traumatized?
Janet
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Off to the Bay area tomorrow to see #3 son. Can't wait. He loves his life there. So y'all take care, and no more flooding or hurricanes, etc. OK?
Janet
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Apparently, they haven't actually seen any remains yet with their eyes. 4 cadaver dogs trained to only identify human remains all gave the sign that human remains were at that exact spot. From what I understand, they are digging now to actually unearth the remains but it has to be done slowly -- I guess so as not to disturb evidence if they can help it. They've gone down 2 feet so far and say this is a shallow grave so I would say they should hit something soon. The archeologist was called in to examine the earth and the vegetation and determined the grave was "recent" as opposed to ancient.
Diane
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Isn't sad when you hope they found someone's remains? Its a tough thing to have to deal with. At least her soul is at rest.
Christine
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Diane, I sure hope so! Someone said if she were a guy, she would have gotten life. I don't care if it is a male or female, whoever would do something so horrific to a child, deserves life in prison, no exceptions!
Christine
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Just heard that the remains in the desert are not ancient. The area has been disturbed by humans (don't know how they know that) "recently". The desert changes very slowly so "recently" means the human remains have been there anywhere from 10 months to 10 years. It could be Susan Powell's remains, but they say it will take several days to move the human remains and get it to the lab. Apparently, they found an e-mail on the computers that Josh and Susan and the kids went to this area a year earlier to look for gem stones. So he lied when he said he was never in this area (big surprise NOT).
Diane
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Christine -- I think we can only hope the judge decides to charge her with everything in sight -- which he told her was a possibility. That would be 60 years or more. And let's hope NO parole ever lets her out -- like they have done in the past, and then the pervert gets right out and kills again.
Diane
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This case still makes me sad and sick. She deserves life for what she did!! __________________ A North Carolina woman pleaded guilty on Thursday to second-degree murder in the death of her 10-year-old stepdaughter, a cancer survivor whose prosthetic leg and other remains were found scattered at several sites. Zahra Baker, a freckled Australian native who also had a hearing impairment as a result of cancer, was reported missing last October in the small town of Hickory. The girl's stepmother, Elisa Baker, entered into a plea agreement with prosecutors that called for a prison sentence of between 177 to 222 months. Baker also pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice, admitting to writing a ransom note to support her initial claim that Zahra had been abducted.
christine
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Janet - It seems they got some new info. lately. Someone (I go to websleuths.com)said there was a man and his son who live in that area and they went to the police to report something strange they had seen there but didn't put 2 and 2 together about Susan Powell until recently. Let's hope they can find her body. On another note --- Can't believe that evil stepmother is getting OFF with second degree murder in a plea bargain that can have that witch out of jail in as little as 9 years!!!! (with time served that's 8!) Let's hope she never gets out and gets sentenced as much as possible and the parole board NEVER lets her out (like they do with Charlie Manson)
Diane
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Rick Perry had dinner with Donald Trump.... I knew there was a reason I didn't like him!
Christine
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I wonder how soon they can identify the remains. And how they decided where to search.
Janet
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One thing I read (not sure how true or not) that they found a makeshift cross nearby somewhere. If that cross was for the dead body, that usually means a family member did the ditching as strangers do not do things like that when they dump a body.
Diane
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Human remains were found while searching for Susan Powell today! They do not yet know if they are hers or not, though. They are bones and lab tests need to be done to determine the DNA. Let's hope somebody's family gets some answers or closure even whether those are Susan Powell's remains or not.
Diane
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My good friend just became a grandmother. Her grandson was born at 9lbs 4oz, that is one big baby! It makes me feel old because I remember her daughter being 10 years old!
Christine
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It is so hard when no one gets convicted for murder when a child is missing. Janet - When Elizabeth Smart was missing, I was sure they would never find a trace of her ever. Thankfully, I was so wrong. So I hope that Susan Powell's remains will be found -- sooner or later. It's such a good thing Hacking confessed because Lori's body never would have been found if he hadn't told them where it was. I remember how long and how much they dug to find the -- what, like 15 lbs of her that was left? They never would have done that if he hadn't told them where to look. So I hope Josh cracks -- I think the father has him with him to keep him from confessing -- much like they have the boys -- to keep them from saying what they witnessed that night. But, I hope something gives really soon and we find something of her. I don't think her soul can rest with things like they are.
Diane
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Horrible case out my way. A disabled 14 year old boy was found dead from pnuemonia in a house filled with over 200 animals. The mother had pretty much kept her kids out of school and cut off contact with everyone. I sometimes watch animal hoarding shows and this really is so sad that no one stepped in to get this family help. The other two children are also sick and some of the animals are in really bad shape.
Christine
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They mentioned he was okay. God was with him on this one. Wow, it looked so bad. ___________________________________________ There are several missing wives out our way, of course everyone knows the Drew Peterson case. There was also a girl who disappeared in the same town over 10 yeas ago. The stepfather was always a "person of interest" as he was the only one home with her. She disappeared on a frigid day, without her coat... he said she ran away. i heard alot from the middle school kids at work that they thought he did something, but they never found her. He and her mother made a big to do about staying at their home to wait for her to come back. After a couple of years, they cahnaged their names and moved down state. So much for that. Her biological father has never given up, but at this point, I don't think anything will ever be found.
Christine
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Good news- the motorcyclist will be OK - several broken bones, bruises, burns, and surgeons put a rod in his leg, but he remembers the whole thing, thought he was a goner. The BMW evidently cut him off unintentionally so he deliberately laid his bike down to lessen the collision's impact so he wasn't thrown in the air, but slid under the BMW instead, and then his cycle burst into flames and the BMW did as well, so he didn't think he was going to survive until the rescuers rolled the car to the side and pulled him out . . . . no brain injury - amazingly - but I'd happily buy the kid a helmet. Obviously his number wasn't up. Remarkable and uplifting story, as he should make a good recovery. Maybe he'll have to drop out this semester, maybe not. Kids are so resilient. But what a relief to know he'll be all right, and still it's amazing to see the quick and efficient rescue on video.
Janet
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I honestly thought they'd find Elizabeth Smart - - when hunting season started. As in hunters would stumble on her remains . . . . . but I think with Susan Powell, somehow I don't have any hope. I can't see a mom abandoning her kids, and knowing of the marital problems, husband is definitely a person of interest. Coincidentally, Lori Hacking "disappeared" in a park area not far from where Elizabeth Smart's home is . . . although HER husband was an early suspect, too, and of course he did it. #1 son knew them, though not well, and helped in early search efforts.
Janet
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hi cat - no, no gas...i have electric heat which is why i'm leaning towards just replacing the current tank with a new one. it's only me, so it's not like i have to supply a lot of hot water in a day and i like the idea of having a hot water in the tank reservoir in case of an outage. i think the tankless is a great environmental idea, but i think the technology is still probably too expensive, but it's hard to find a lot of information about it.
lisag
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how about a gas heater? They make tankless ones as well. How do you heat your place? i take it this is only for hot water?
Cat
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Lisa, I wish I could help, but I am so ignorant as to that. We are dealing iwth scholarships at out end.... what to apply for... etc....
Christine
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Poor Susan Powell, I hope they find her soon and take care of those who did it.
christine
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Hi all...sending out a homeowner question to you. I think I'm going to have to replace my hot water heater soon...it's old (25 yrs) and I'm trying to figure out 1) should I switch to tankless which is more efficient -or- 2) if I stay with the regular tank heater, what brand is a good one? My biggiest issues with tankless is the higher price and the fact that if my electric goes out, there's zero hot water...at least with a tank, there's hot water in the reservoir until you use it or the temp dissipates. Any suggestions?
LisaG
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Lisa - I know -- I have NEVER seen so many sick SICK people in all my life. They say the Republican party is no longer a Republican Party. It is becoming more and more strange and more and more Fascist. Of course, neither of the parties are what they used to be or are supposed to be anymore. The people have little to no representation AND those d*mn politicians need to be told they are PUBLIC SERVANTS -- and NOT KINGS!!!
Diane
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Janet - I feel they will eventually find her body as it seems all bodies seem to unearth at some point whether by weather, hikers, or animals. I just hope it is SOON in this case because of the way these people are acting and because those two little boys are innocent and in bad hands.
Diane
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You want sick? Read this... http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/audience-tea-party-debate-cheers-leaving-uninsured-die-163216817.html
LisaG
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Diane: Yes - - - where are they coming up with these locations, I wonder? Will they ever find her remains?
Janet
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I see they are looking in an area called Topaz Mountain today with dogs in the Susan Powell case. Gosh, I hope they find something soon. I'm so tired of the circus Josh and his wacko father keep putting on to torture Susan's parents. How SICK can people get?
Diane
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Now it's on NPR. Such a remarkable story of selfless and quickly organized action.
Janet
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I thought it might go viral - everything happened so quickly and it was caught on film - both vehicles were on fire, too. The video was so amazing. People were heroes yesterday, that's for sure.
Janet
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Janet, they just showed the footage on my local news here in Chicago!
Christine
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Oh my gosh, Janet!
Christine
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http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=17220387#.Tm7Xlw3htE4.facebook................. I couldn't take my usual route home (grumbling about my throbbing foot). Little did I know volunteers were lifting a car off of a trapped motorcyclist - - they saved his life. Amazing footage. I am humbled. This happened only half a mile from me, across from a USU dorm. Cyclist is in surgery tonight, was not wearing helmet . . .
Janet
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Mike, hope you can weather all the disruptions and destruction at work . . . . must be mind-boggling.
Janet
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Mike - OMG that' s just awful. I am just aghast reading that. Does your company even have insurance for that?
Cat
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janet - ouch! hope you feel better soon!
lisag
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home from getting steroid injection in my ankle. Foot elevated and being iced. Ow. Feeling kind of icky all over but that will pass.
Janet
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I think also maybe that the masks might be a good idea for the mold that must be developing. Or maybe mold is something that grows after the water has receded and the dampness lingers inbetween floor boards or under carpeting and things like that. Lisa - Now they are coming out with how bad that air was in NYC during that time. So many fire fighters dying of lung cancer. Why can't the government pay ALL the medical bills for these people??!! Especially know that they know the air was so bad.
Diane
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Wow, an anti-war speech on a soap. The 60's were surely a