« Home Sweet Home | Main | Stephen King's "Cell" Out »
September 02, 2006
"What I did on my Summer Vacation"
Did anyone really have to write an essay like this for class? I never did. I don’t think my teachers cared what we did over the summer. Not that I ever did much: swim, lounge around, stay under the radar, hang out at the mall, ride my bike down to the beach. There wasn’t much to do until you were old enough to have a job or drive a car.
It’s really an ironic title for the entry, since this summer the only thing I took “vacation” from was Misfitting, and everything else spread out to fill in the gaps. My little crew had a very busy summer. As many of you know, I moved, and I did it without professional movers, so I’m simply delighted to have the agony and sheer exhaustion of that horrible experience behind me. Between the cleaning and schlepping, I used muscles that haven’t been heard from in years, although I became stronger and fitter as a result. There’s always a silver lining. Another benefit to moving is being motivated to organize or get rid of things that you have had packed up for years and don’t want to take with you. In the beginning, I sorted and bagged and drove things to various charities or recycling facilities. Toward the end, when I was going through those last few boxes and that last closet, I became extremely unsentimental, if not downright cold-blooded.
On the kid front, there were the usual swimming lessons, day camps, summer camp, and field trips; but because our new neighborhood is on a private street with a private beach, we had to gear up for lakefront living. The kids got new bikes: one ready to ride, one in a box (yes, I assembled it all by myself. I was ecstatic to find the adjustable wrench), and water shoes to wade in. They collected beach glass, skipped stones, watched the boats or played with the neighbor kids. They were in heaven. Even now that school has begun, they are on the beach or riding around to take advantage of the daylight and warm weather while it lasts.
It took over two years to get into a courtroom, but in late June through mid-August, the California murder trial of Cameron Brown finally took place. After hearing six weeks of testimony and nearly a week in deliberations, the jury deadlocked over the degree in which to convict Brown. From reliable accounts, all but two jurors agreed that Lauren Key’s death was not an accident. Immediately after Judge Arnold declared a mistrial, a new trial date was set for mid-October. Pat and I kept a blog on the Brown case and will update it as events occur. Meanwhile, as in Peterson, the defendant’s apologists have set up their own blog as a venue to discuss the egregious violations against poor, innocent Cam Brown, gnash their teeth over the corrupt court officials, vilify the dastardly DA, and dissect the detritus of the issues, many of which never saw the light of a courtroom. (Big yawn, here.)
The highlight of the summer was my visit from Pat (“CountryGirl), when she flew in from California to drive with me to Michigan as a surprise birthday present to Lisa. Other misfits in attendance included Vero and Barbara; but there were several honorary misfits by the end of the evening. As another surprise, the misfits unable to be there in person organized a group phone call and birthday song in somewhat unison (heh) from cities across the globe.
Naturally, I brought the infamous pastel striped shirt for the requisite photo ops, and eager volunteers at Lisa’s party posed with it. The remarkable popularity of the shirt inspired the idea to send it to misfits all over the world and assemble an ongoing photo essay detailing that damned striped shirt’s adventures. Thus began “TDSS World Tour.”
Late August came much too soon and the kids are already back to school. As I have mentioned in entries past, I long for the summer to dally endlessly beyond its official final weekend. However, there is work to do and we have many subjects to discuss. The agenda here is to have fun, make friends and learn something every day. Welcome back to the journey!
Comments
Great recap! It was a great summer while it lasted. I swear they get shorter and shorter every year!
Here's to a new year beginning this Labor Day weekend with the reopening of your labor of love.
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 11:40 AM
That is a great recap!
TDSS World Tour just cracks me up. I can't wait to see what Nadine comes up with.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 12:05 PM
It's so good to be back!
It was quite a summer, and such a treat to meet you, Barbara, Lisa and Vero (and the hubbys), not to mention how much fun I had with N Boy too!
Let the journey continue!
Posted by: CountryGal | September 2, 2006 12:08 PM
Aaahhhhhhh, making comfy back here in my favorite living room. Bravissimo, Ms. L., it's sooo good to be back home. A cheerful good morning to all MisFits, near and far!
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 2, 2006 12:26 PM
Mornin' Wench!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 12:33 PM
Good Morning.
I have some chores to finish so I'll catch up later. It's great to see everyone again and I just love new beginnings.
Posted by: Peggy | September 2, 2006 01:28 PM
Too cool! It's great to see Misfitting up and running again. Hooray!
Posted by: mtnwmn | September 2, 2006 01:47 PM
Well this is a great surprise! So glad to see Misfits up and running again after a deserved vacation. I tried to check in once in a while, and was dismayed to get the error message. I thought you had gone completely. Great to see the group is back and I am looking forward to the discussions.
Peki
Posted by: Peki | September 2, 2006 02:12 PM
Good morning/afternoon/time for brunch, everyone!
Chores, ugh. Do they never stop? I had so much laundry piled up waiting for the plumber, I thought I'd never be finished.
The guy found a hunk of that gawd-awful carpet I didn't want in the drain. How it got there, nobody can figure out.
Posted by: Nadine | September 2, 2006 02:14 PM
Nadine, come spend a week with me! I guarantee peace, quiet, fresh air and REST. You, too, Verio. Both you girls need a little R&R.
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 2, 2006 02:27 PM
Oh, we'd all have so much fun! Your new place sounds wonderful, Wench!
Posted by: Nadine | September 2, 2006 02:57 PM
Here's an interesting story on mainstream MSNBC that reveals the crux of the false flag operation issue:
With that bogus airline scare in the UK and various other fake operations coming out, it's all starting to unravel.
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 02:57 PM
Greetings all!
I'm late to the party but ever-so-glad to have Misfitting back.
Summer with kids is always busy and fun. Summer around here seems to be just like the rest of the seasons, except there are thunderstorms, and it's warm.
Posted by: Deege | September 2, 2006 03:15 PM
Well, I'm off to TarJay to get storage containers and get things organized downstairs. Ugh! I'll check back in this evening.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 2, 2006 03:38 PM
BTW Loretta--I love your new digs and the picture of the lake. You have the most awesome view ever.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 2, 2006 03:39 PM
I second CountryGal's sentiments on Loretta's gorgeous digs.
Pat yourself on the back, girlfriend, you have arrived!
Posted by: Nadine | September 2, 2006 04:18 PM
Thank you for that. I was lucky to find it. The picture at the top of this entry was taken from the private beach. I used a zoom lens on a rather rough day. Today the lake looks like the Atlantic Ocean during a storm. Batten down the hatches.
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 04:20 PM
It's beautiful no matter what the weather. I'm green with envy!
Posted by: Nadine | September 2, 2006 04:23 PM
It really is pretty.
Now all you need is a sailboat!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 04:41 PM
I'm watching Penn State play football. I know, Ohio State is on too but one of our former students is a senior at Penn and I get a kick out of watching him and hearing his name on national TV.
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 06:08 PM
That's awesome, Barbara!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 06:13 PM
I love the view you have from your living room, Loretta. Those pics you sent were wonderful. It's a great house and a great area.
Lucky kids! They have a huge yard to play in and the beach just a block from the front door!
Posted by: Deege | September 2, 2006 06:30 PM
What a way to start a new month - Misfits is back!
Looking forward to "seeing" everyone and reading again. I've really missed the entries and the comments. So many interesting subjects - new babies, school stories, and a wide variety of daily happenings....
TDSS World Tour is hilarious. Hmmmm..I live about 40 miles from the White House. Wonder if I could somehow get it close enough to Dubya for a photo op?
Posted by: Jo Ann | September 2, 2006 06:32 PM
LHAT, Jo Ann!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 06:38 PM
I don't know where they are getting this "global warming" idea, because it's downright chilly out there today. We did a little running around and took a nap. It's a nap-takin' kinda day for sure.
JoAnn, that would be great to get some shots of TDSS at historical monuments. TDSS has already been to places I'll never see!
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 06:59 PM
Must-see video:
From Iraq to Katrina, to flu vaccine shortages, to the entire "Fog of Fear" which continues to envelope this nation - he, Mr. Bush, Mr. Cheney, and their cronies, have - inadvertently or intentionally - profited and benefited, both personally, and politically. And yet he can stand up in public, and question the morality and the intellect of those of us who dare ask just for the receipt for the Emperor's New Clothes.
Posted by: Astrologer | September 2, 2006 07:47 PM
Home, sweet home!
It has been a very ong day, with the entire cast of "Anything Goes" coming in the shop to pick up their costumes. Up to 9 per actor, with several major roles double-cast, requiring a complete second set of outfits for the doubled actor. It was fun, but tiring.
This summer. Let's see.
Brendan got his driving permit (look out!), Vanessa found out she will have a boy in January, I costumed "Merry Wives of Windsor," and got cast in "Arsenic and Old Lace."
The trip to Michigan for Lisa's birthday was awesome, and it was wonderful to see Loretta and N-boy again. Also terrific to meet Lisa, Mia, Martin and his parents, not to mention Pat, Barbara, Barbara's DH, Lisa's sister and a bunch of Lisa's friends and fellow bloggers.
Then, there was the trip to Hell.
Posted by: vero | September 2, 2006 07:48 PM
I only wish that we could have gone to hell with you vero. I'm sure it would have been more fun if we could have gone together.
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 08:30 PM
I'm disappointed that you met more of the other denizens than we did.
Posted by: vero | September 2, 2006 08:32 PM
When TDSS arrives in Michigan, I'm sure Lisa and Martin can take it to Hell.
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 08:33 PM
That trip sounds like so much fun, Vero. The two of you, together in hell, would have been priceless.
I hope TDSS makes it there!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 08:40 PM
My summer vacation:
Work. Go birding. Go fishing. Work. Visit Washington DC. Work. Go birding. Turn 41. Go fishing. The end.
Posted by: Vix | September 2, 2006 08:44 PM
Addendum: Broke the blog on September 2.
Posted by: Vix | September 2, 2006 08:53 PM
The video you linked Astro is worth watching twice.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 08:55 PM
Don't feel bad Vix, I did it twice today already!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 08:57 PM
ha! No, you didn't break the blog, but I almost did when I installed a plug-in for a new blogroll and it didn't work.
Luckily, it didn't affect the rest of the blog.
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 09:07 PM
I agree, Doe. His piece was beautifully written.
Posted by: Astrologer | September 2, 2006 09:20 PM
I would tell you what I'm doing but you already know. (And nobody wants to hear about this football game except me.)
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 09:21 PM
It was beautifully written, Astrologer. Thanks again for the link.
That football game isn't over with yet, Barbara?
OK-I'll bite, what's the score?
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 09:35 PM
10-0, Georgia Tech vs. Notre Dame. It's only the second quarter and the Irish are looking a little better on this offensive series. They could yet pull it out. (Was that TMI?)
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 09:39 PM
Here's a review of a book I'm going to read as soon as possible:
Posted by: loretta | September 2, 2006 09:44 PM
Oh, that's not TMI for those of us who only watch Sunday & Monday NFL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 2, 2006 09:55 PM
I can go to bed now. Notre Dame won 14-10.
Posted by: Barbara | September 2, 2006 11:32 PM
I know my fellow cat lovers will enjoy this site:
Posted by: Astrologer | September 3, 2006 12:16 AM
Be sure to click on "Best Kitlers."
Posted by: Astrologer | September 3, 2006 12:20 AM
Happy Sunday afternoon, everyone. Sorry it took so long for me to reopen today. DD#2 and I were having a long foam chat about trading in her car for something new. She has that beautiful 99 Honda Accord EX with leather interior and sunroof, but she's put a lot of miles on it in 3 plus years.
So, we are going car shopping soon. Any suggestions? She wants a little SUV like a Pilot or RAV4x4.
I'm going to look around online. We have a lot of equity in the Accord, but she wants to lease. She has a much shorter commute than she had last year, so that will work.
It's still chilly out there, but at least it's not raining. I hope it warms up a little.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 12:41 PM
Good morning! I hope she finds a car that workd for her. Just out of curiosity, why does she want to lease?
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 12:48 PM
You can get a much nicer car with a lease, and you have a short-term commitment like 3 or 4 years. It's not a bad option if you don't drive very much. She has a short commute as opposed to her longer one before she moved.
It's not a bad idea if she takes good care of the car (which she does) and has a short commute.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 12:52 PM
That makes sense. I hadn't considered the mileage factor.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 01:01 PM
You know what my vote will be for. I'll send you a picture.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 3, 2006 01:06 PM
Leasing is great if you like a new car every few years, don't put a lot of miles on them, and don't mind a car payment and higher insurance limits (at lease in CA).
They used to have a 5 to zero lease out here and you basically owned the car for just a minimal amount at the end of the lease, but they did away with it right after I leased my last car.
The best value if you are buying is a low mileage car that's 2 years old. It has depreciated but it's still new enough to be a great value. That is the end of my lease/buy knowledge. LOL!
Posted by: CountryGal | September 3, 2006 02:18 PM
Beats heck out of mine!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 02:25 PM
I don't like leasing, I'm from the "Church of the Holy Buy It" and I will try to convince her not to lease if we can find an affordable used or new vehicle.
I am looking at Hondas and Toyotas. She doesn't like the Corolla (but I LOVE it and had a wonderful experience with it in California), but she might like the new Honda "Fit," (gotta love that name). It looks like Honda's version of the VW Bug; definitely geared toward the younger set.
Definitely affordable. They don't have any used ones because it's a new model.
I think it's adorable.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 02:29 PM
That's just cute! What fun!
Vanessa is looking for another affordable vehicle--something to put a carseat in. She has a Ford Ranger pickup and Mike has a Mustang. Not much of a family car, either one.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 02:36 PM
Very interesting story on mobile phone thief posting pictures on the victim's website because of built-in software:
Hard to explain, so just read it. Very funny.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 02:43 PM
Off to read the article. Sounds like a doozy.
Posted by: Nadine | September 3, 2006 03:05 PM
Remember my little ordeal in LV?
Posted by: CountryGal | September 3, 2006 03:12 PM
That is a funny story.
I read that story this morning, CG. No matter how much money is spent, we still can't seem to figure it out, can we?
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 3, 2006 03:17 PM
I'm watching "Sleeping With the Enemy." I remember reading the book, but I have a hard time watching movies about abuse and stalking. Jim, knowing that I like Julia Roberts, turned it on, and now I'm fascinated.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 08:28 PM
It's only about half an hour into it, and already, it looks as if they are making him out to be some sort of madman, instead of acknowledging how common this behaviour is.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 08:33 PM
Remember when I did a little article on Stephen King and his book On Writing?
I am readingCell right now, and it's kind of a combination "Night of the Living Dead" and "The Stand."
So far, I'm not really all that impressed with it, but I'm going to give it a few more chapters.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 09:52 PM
OMG- Am I glad to see you back online. I just by chance clicked on the shortcut (you're on my favorites) and there you are. I am glad you had a nice summer. I am here getting ready for year two of nursing school.
Good to see everyone again.
greenie
Posted by: greenie | September 3, 2006 09:59 PM
Hey, Greenie! Good luck with nursing school! More power to you! There's no way I could be a nurse--it's a blessed calling, as far as I'm concerned. We need all the good nurses we can get!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 10:08 PM
My birthday was the best! I was so thrilled to be able to see so many of my Misfits friends and so many friends from so many walks of my life. My friend Ellen goes back to middle school, as do Tammy and Missy and Darr and it was such a great moment to see them all together, interacting.
As an added bonus, we all got to see The World's Largest Baby, Darr's son.
I hope everyone had as much fun as Martin and I did. We especially were happy to host Vero and Jim and Martin was lucky enough to take them to Hell.
Posted by: Lisa | September 3, 2006 10:25 PM
I'll call Martin next time it crashes, unless it's the middle of the night. I know he is sometimes a night owl, but still...
We SO enjoyed our visit, Lisa, and hope to return the favour. Unless, of course, you are allergic to cats, in which case, I'm afraid it's the Bates Motel. LOL!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 10:30 PM
We used to make a game of it, going to Renfest, we would leave after work on Friday, and stop at the cheapest motel we could find along the way.
I won the prize with one that charged $18/night! It was tiny, old, many-times remodeled, and yet scrupulously clean. I'd have to look at a map to get the name of the town, but it was about the size of Hell.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 10:53 PM
Hi Greenie!
Lisa and I (and husbands) just got together, last night to enjoy Steely Dan at the Knob. I refuse to say DTE, but whatever.
I'm so glad that RN school is marching on for you. I think you will make an excellent nurse.
Hope you and the family have enjoyed your summer in this great state.
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:00 PM
Hey to Greenie! I wish you had been able to be at Lisa's. We had a great adventure, between the trip there and the party. We missed you.
We'll have to get together this fall in October before it gets too cold. Although that November party wasn't too bad staying inside.
Cheese ball. We need that cheese ball, Lisa.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:05 PM
I didn't get to see Steely Dan at Blossom just before they went to Michigan, because Blossom has really changed a lot, and I don't like going there anymore.
In the old days, we went to 3 or 4 concerts a summer. I saw Steely Dan there a long time ago when they toured with the "New York Rock & Soul Revue" with Phoebe Snow and Michael McDonald.
And, I don't agree with Bob, Monica, that Mike McDonald ruined the Doobies. LHAT! I really like his voice.
He was a backup singer on several 'Dan albums.
You all know I'm a big Steely Dan freak from way back.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:09 PM
I can do a cheese ball in my sleep.
Cheese ball, yummmmm.
Posted by: Lisa | September 3, 2006 11:13 PM
There's a nice outdoor venue here called The Backyard, where Natalie Merchant plays when she is in town. I really like her, and we usually get in free, because Jim's stepson and his wife travel with her, running her lights. He is a lighting designer out of New York State.
Now that I figured out how to post my own links, I'll link his site.
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:14 PM
I'm laughing hard at that. I never said that McDonald ruined the Doobies. That's Bob's claim.
Actually, McDonald played with Steely for the last half of the concert. Bob even said, "I really like his voice, but I just don't like him." LOL
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:14 PM
I think "Takin' it to the Streets" is a CLASSIC. I always crank it up whenever it comes on the radio.
I have one Doobie Brother's CD - The Best of (one of them), and I have worn it out.
Tell Bob that my favorite Doobies are the early ones - and I loved their first vocalist (can't think of his name, but I can look it up.)
McDonald changed the entire sound of the group and made it much more pop. But I like some of the later Doobies stuff.
McDonald is a good keyboard player. Did he play organ on stage with 'Dan? He did at Blossom.
Donald Fagan is amazing (ding) on the piano. They had this humongous grand piano onstage that he POUNDED. He's really good.
His voice is awful, but you gotta love it.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:18 PM
Dang! I can't do an October or November get-together unless I come alone. Football season you know.
Posted by: Barbara | September 3, 2006 11:18 PM
I was an excellent concert. Those guys didn't miss a beat. And they had to female backup singers that were superb. The girls actually sang "I'm a fool to do your dirty work." That were fantabulous.
Steely didn't sing "Reelin' in the years!" Bummer.
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:19 PM
Tom Johnston
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:20 PM
Yes, McDonald played organ.
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:21 PM
My favorite 'Dan songs (not in any particular order) are:
Caves of Altimara
Deacon Blues
Katie Lied
Ricki Don't Lose that Number
My Old School
Gaucho
Aja
(ok, pretty much ALL of Aja)
Bad Sneakers
The Fez...
oh, nebber mind. HA!
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:22 PM
I like all those!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:23 PM
I had most of it on vinyl at one time, but I only have 6 Steely Dan CDs.
I would have a hard time picking any favorites. They are all really good.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:23 PM
I've never seen Steely Dan, but enjoyed their music on the radio in the late 70's.
I haven't been to a concert in a couple of years now. Turns out I missed some of the good ones at the CA State Fair. Tesla was there already, as well as LoverBoy, REO Speedwagon, Lifehouse and Collective Soul. Why did I not know about these before they were gone? I feel like a dork.
Posted by: Nadine | September 3, 2006 11:25 PM
They didn't do Cousin Dupree which is one of my current favorites. I love it! I was bummed!
But they did everything else and it was tight and great and they are amazing. Such a great cool groove and such incredible musicians.
It's like a little slice of history, to see the Dan in concert.
What an interesting diverse group of concert-goers, as well.
Posted by: Lisa | September 3, 2006 11:26 PM
I'm on page 154 of Stephen King's Cell, and it is getting a little better.
I will probably keep reading it, now. It's a li-barry book, so I have to finish it by next Monday. No problema, if I get into it. I should have it read in two days.
It's not exactly a brain teaser.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:26 PM
I'll bet! Talk about a band that appeals across the generations!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:27 PM
Since I invested this much time into it, I'll probably finish it and post a book review of it. I haven't done a book review in months.
I should also review "Crazy Thing Called Love," which was really good. The writing style was a little stunted, but you get used to it after awhile.
Talk about name-dropping; holy cow, even Nick Dunne's name is dropped all over the place. He wrote a "fiction" book on the story, but apparently he made it into a spouse murrrrder theater instead of an accidental shooting.
No doubt in my mind that it was an accident.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:29 PM
Cell is one of Stephen King's I haven't read. I never could get into The Dark Towers, either.
I've been reading about mmmuuuuurrrders lately. 'Night all!
Posted by: Nadine | September 3, 2006 11:30 PM
I learned a lot of things about those elite rich folks on the east coast from reading "Crazy Thing..." - did you know that Brooke Shield's grandfather was a famous tennis player?
It makes sense that she would hook up with Agassi, now.
Oh, speaking of Agassi, he retired today; as you probably know.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:31 PM
Night, Nadine! Have fun tomorrow!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:31 PM
I remember when he was the new kid. I must be getting old! Tiger Woods is 30; can you imagine?
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:33 PM
That s/b "Shields's's's." Lisa will remember this. Brooke Shields's's grandad was a great tennis pro who was also a drunk. He married some countess-type Italian woman, which is where Brooke gets those exotic looks.
Also, speaking of Brooke, did you hear that Tom Cruise apologized to her in person recently? I guess they patched things up.
Cruise's's's publicist had a disclaimer, though - he said, "This does not mean that Mr. Cruise has changed his views about anti-depressants!"
God forbid!
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:34 PM
I saw the Agassi farewell. It was very touching. He is a genuine person and I think that's more admirable than any athletic talent.
Posted by: Barbara | September 3, 2006 11:35 PM
Carzy Thing Called Love is such an excellent book, Loretta. The socialogical aspect is incredible. All those interlapping families and the social givens.
The author was a bit dry and impersonal, though. No editorial whatsoever.
Wahhhh. It would have been much better with that.
Posted by: Lisa | September 3, 2006 11:36 PM
I agree, Lisa. It's like reading a police report.
Dry as dust. Needs lots of salsa.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:38 PM
Ahh, that makes sense re the Brooke and Andre connection!
Agassi's send-off was a tearjerker for me, as well as the anchors on my local TV. He was so heartfelt and open when he bid farewell.
Posted by: Astrologer | September 3, 2006 11:39 PM
Ok, time to go back to my book. It's getting pretty scary, now.
It only took 150 plus pages.
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:39 PM
So, I'm off to B&N again? Or might I find this one at Half Price Books? Who wrote it?
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:39 PM
Brooke Shields looks so much like her tennis playing grandfather who is absurdly handsome.
Okay so Endless Summer was a totally stupid movie but Brooke has earned her chops on Broadway and she is still an incredibly beautiful woman who OH MY GARSH for Hollyweird, has a couple brain cells that fire.
Posted by: Lisa | September 3, 2006 11:40 PM
It's a really old paperback. I got it used on Amazon for like $3 plus shipping. I'll send it to you, after I scotch tape the binding!
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:40 PM
Then you can send it to Moi, if it's still in one piece. She will like it a lot.
It might not last 2 more reads, though!
Posted by: loretta | September 3, 2006 11:41 PM
I think it's especially interesting that Shields and Cruise's latest children were born twelve hours apart on the same ward! That's a Karmic connection!
Posted by: Astrologer | September 3, 2006 11:44 PM
I need to hit the hay, but I did want to share that on the way home from the concert, I saw the biggest and brightest shooting star that I have ever seen in my entire life. I felt blessed.
Hey, maybe those weren't cocktail shrimp after all.
Goodnight, friends. It's good to be back.
Posted by: Monica | September 3, 2006 11:45 PM
Night, Monica!
Thanks, Loretta, I'll do my bestest to keep it together for Moi!
Posted by: vero | September 3, 2006 11:48 PM
It's pretty chilly in here tonight. I'm going to get a blanket and read a little before bed.
Time to shut down, but there's still plenty of snacks in the kitchen. See you there later!
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 12:12 AM
Good morning, Mgt! I'm working on something new to post.
Probably everyone here already read or heard that Crocodile Steve Irwin, the dude who dangled his baby son in front of the jaws of a croc, died of a stingray sting.
That's a crazy life.
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 10:42 AM
William was just talking about Steve Irwin at dinner Saturday night. It was a really freakish accident. With all the dangerous things he did, it's strange that he died from something that is not often fatal. I feel very badly for his wife and two children.
Posted by: Barbara | September 4, 2006 10:51 AM
I read it was a stingray barb that went into his heart.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 4, 2006 11:04 AM
“He came on top of the stingray and the stingray’s barb went up and into his chest and put a hole into his heart,” said Stainton, who was on board Irwin’s boat at the time.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 4, 2006 11:05 AM
You'd think he'd have a rubber suit on or something.
One crap shoot too many.
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 11:14 AM
Good day to you all! This is seriously exciting!
I've been gone too long, so, hopefully these "sneaky Petes" leave things alone.
Hello, to our wonderful Hostess - I've missed you!
Posted by: Mgt | September 4, 2006 11:20 AM
G'morning all.
I heard about Steve Irwin on the radio last night as I was falling asleep. That was a truly freaky accident.
Posted by: Deege | September 4, 2006 11:26 AM
Mornin' all!
I feel very bad for the family he left behind. In a video that was on earlier, the reporter from Australia said that the cameraman that was filming him didn't know he had been stung until he saw blood in the water.
Good to see you Mgt!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 4, 2006 11:29 AM
Lovely to be here, Doe!
I was really sad to hear that Steve had been killed by a creature that is known for its mild temperament. Of all the crazy, dangerous things Irwin has survived, the way he died is ironic.
Rest in peace, Steve
Posted by: Mgt | September 4, 2006 11:42 AM
There was mention of "seeing the house". I missed that so if someone could help, please!
Posted by: Mgt | September 4, 2006 11:45 AM
I was reading on my pug board and one of the posters said he was actually filming a segment for his daughter's show:
On 4 September 2006, Irwin was fatally pierced in the chest by a stingray barb, while off the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia while filming a segment for his daughter Bindi Irwin's (8 years old at the time) upcoming series.
Irwin was in the area filming his own documentary, to be called Ocean's Deadliest, but weather had stalled filming. Irwin decided to take the opportunity to film some shallow water shots for his daughter's program.
The BBC reported that this was only the second known fatality in Australian history from a stingray attack.
The Sydney Morning Herald lists it as the third known death; the other two deaths being in 1938 and 1945.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 4, 2006 11:46 AM
Okay, that's me for the day.
Ciao, everyone!
(Yay!!!)
Posted by: Mgt | September 4, 2006 11:48 AM
Have a good evening, Mgt!
Next time you'll have to stay longer. LOL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 4, 2006 11:55 AM
I was a little startled when I saw the headline, too. When you think of all the close calls he had, you wonder how he lasted as long as he did.
But, hey, the guy lived life on his own terms, and you have to respect and admire that.
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 12:22 PM
I'm very sorry that they printed that part about him filming the segment for his daughter's show. She doesn't need that guilt laid on her head.
Posted by: Barbara | September 4, 2006 12:25 PM
It's finally a nice day out there, the only one in this long weekend. I had to cut the side lawn (I need a goat), and do some major weeding. The yard of this house was not very well tended by previous tenants. I'm going to have to work next spring to get it up to par.
I could always hire a lawn service. That's the ticket!
I have to take a break from the cutting, since the backyard is still too wet. (excuses, excuses)
I'm about 3/4 of the way through Cell, and so far I cannot honestly recommend it to anyone. It's really quite a disappointment.
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 01:28 PM
I've completely ignored my back lawn this season since I have been redoing/painting the interior of my house. I'm not sure I even have plants left out there. If I do, I can't see them for all weeds. Alas.
I'm waiting anxiously to hear word from my MSU girly who has decided that she needs to jump out of a perfectly safe airplane this weekend. Pulling weeds is probably the distraction that I need right now. LOL
Posted by: Monica | September 4, 2006 01:43 PM
Good afternoon, everyone.
Loretta, I have to say mowing the lawn is one of my least favorite things to do, and we have a big back yard.
It's good to see Mgt here again! Waving "hello" in advance for tomorrow!
Monica, lots of people jump out of planes. For the life of me, I don't understand the need to do it. My hat's off to those with the nerve to do it.
Posted by: Nadine | September 4, 2006 02:12 PM
I don't blame you for being a little nervous, Monica!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 4, 2006 02:26 PM
I'm checking back in to see if you've heard from your daughter, Monica.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 4, 2006 06:25 PM
I never got around to finishing my new entry, since I read the rest of Cell, had to weed and cut the lawn, and do other housework, but I'll put something up tomorrow.
Good morning to Mgt - I'll be checking in later in the AM.
Posted by: loretta | September 4, 2006 10:18 PM
Good morning to all, on this dull, wet, typically Scottish day! Urgh!
I wish I was home tucked up in bed with something other than "Cell"!
Just being cheeky, Loretta. Apologies!
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 07:59 AM
Good Morning, Mgt! I enjoy similar weather here, hehehe. That is, I will when this nasty drought ends. I always tell people who kvetch about the rain that it is oh sooo good for the complexion. And it is...that's why you and I are so cute. GGwwaaahhhh, did I say that? I've got my "morning face" on,hehehe.
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 08:52 AM
Mornin' to ya, Wench. We had a most unusual summer over here, with tropical temperatures, so, I can't really complain.
Geez, I feel like a kid, being able to interact again.
Now, where's my Ritalin?
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 09:04 AM
Temporarily un-froze, here. Computer problems. Hi, all. I may get to Vanessa's later, so will be more chatty. Just trying to get something in before this piece of garbage Fry's computer fries itself again!
Posted by: vero | September 5, 2006 09:08 AM
Wench, NOW you tell me that rain is good for my complexion, after I have been "sanding" on a weekly basis, along with plastering Ponds dry skin cream all ober my face. Crikey!
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 09:09 AM
This is lovely Lo - I love the new look.
Morning everyone!
Posted by: Justin | September 5, 2006 09:11 AM
A quick thank you to Lesa, for keeping me up to date on a regular basis.
She has a heart of gold, and is awake really early in the morning, which is a big "plus".
Thank you, dear lady!
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 09:40 AM
Good morning!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 5, 2006 10:01 AM
Mgt, just get yer sweet self out there in it and let it fall all over you! Hubs thinks I'm 6 kinds of crazy for doing it but every season change finds me dancing out under the dribbly. Can't help myself, I just love the way it feels. Hmmm, Robin, do you suppose it's the Pisces in me?
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 11:24 AM
Arglebargle, ratzafrackers, piss and poo!!!! I'm angry.
My comforter won't fit into my washer, so now I have to don my cheesiest and hump my carcass to a (eeuuwww) laundromat! Life sux at brief moments.
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 11:30 AM
...and I'm a bit of a sissy, it seems, LHAT!
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 11:31 AM
Wench, just drop it off at the dry cleaners and pick up tomorrow. I hate laundromats too!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 5, 2006 11:35 AM
I hate them too - there is always some haggard toothless old fart who has a gleam in his eye when you are folding your undies.
Thank goodness the last one I had to go to was when our dryer pooped out 15 years ago.
May the force be with you Wench. Throw in a couple of pairs of thongs, just for fun.
Posted by: Justin | September 5, 2006 11:41 AM
I know that feeling, Wench! There are quite a few of mine lying at the dump.
When you buy cheap duvets, you don't have to worry about bin-ing them and replacing them with new ones! LOL
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 11:43 AM
'Morning,
Nice to "see" you, Mgt. And thank you for the lovely visits and comments on A's blog.
I am a morning person too (and a little ahead of US time-zone).
Regarding the main events from this weekend, I should say that I was really touched (and yes, I cried) watching Agassi say goodbye to his wonderful career. Big fan of him, here. And I think I saw a couple of tears at husband's face, too. He is into tennis and plays at least 4 times a week with his early morning friends (at 5:30 AM, can you believe that?)
My sister once did a little teasing, asking me if I wasn't afraid he was into something else (meaning girlfriend). My answer was: if he found someone who is willing to "date" regularly at this time of the morning, kudos to him!
Of course it was a joke. She is the one who meets him everyday when he is leaving the Country Club, around 8AM, showered, shaved and dressed to work, by the time she and my other sister are arriving for their daily workout.
I am the only lazy sister - no working out, sports, anything. Just some good walks with husband during weekend.
Posted by: Anne | September 5, 2006 11:46 AM
Aha! Mgt, you are spot-on, as usual. Hehehe, more shopping fodder, a duvet cover. Now THAT, I can fit in this machine. Would do the DC thingy but for one thing. I absolutely loathe the chemicals they use in the dry-cleaning process. I seem to be allergic to just about EVERYTHING. Toothless old fart would be preferable to the smelly nasty freaky tweekers we have here. I wish they'd all overdose.
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 11:48 AM
Have you all been over to CG's to see the beautiful family picture?
Well, you should!
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 11:54 AM
Wench, dry-cleaners would be my advice, as well. We don't have much of laundromats here (because of the "maids" tradition), but I don't like them, too. To much people looking around.
Last time I tried to wash my monster comforter, I broke (seriously) my washing machine!
Posted by: Anne | September 5, 2006 11:56 AM
Hi Anne! "A" is just beautiful. I can see how happy he makes you. Well done, to you and dad.
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 11:57 AM
I need to go, now. Ciao, everybody
Posted by: Mgt | September 5, 2006 11:58 AM
Dis be me favorite down comfy and I refuse to part with it!
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 12:00 PM
The DC here has a huge commercial washing machine and dryer just for down comforters. That's where I always take mine, no DC chemicals at all. Anyway, if do venture out to the laundromat, I hope you take Justin's suggestion on the accompanying pieces. LOL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | September 5, 2006 12:10 PM
If Mgt is commenting over there, I will, too. I wasn't sure that it was a good idea, thinking your family might wonder about all the Yanquis posting! LOL!
Posted by: vero | September 5, 2006 12:11 PM
Well, I have to fess up, Justin. I'm not a wearer of the evil underwear...since 1973. Heh, will have to find something else w/shock value. Maybe my li'l Smith&Wesson with the BIG bore.
Posted by: Wench~Mad Hatter Extraordinaire | September 5, 2006 12:17 PM
Vero, you are always welcome. Thank you too, for visiting it.
One day, in the future, I will show him all the comments and and welcome messages. But you don't need to do it over there. I have saved all the lovely comments from the kitchen, as well. I also did some shots of the sitemeter to show him from where people were coming (as we have family all around the world).
Posted by: Anne | September 5, 2006 12:24 PM
I have a pair or two Wench that I wear when necessary. I don't understand these girls that can wear them every day, but then their arses are much smaller than mine, you know.
Maybe if you go at a weird hour it will be empty there. I wouldn't wait until 5 or so.
Posted by: Justin | September 5, 2006 02:31 PM
Off topic, but I know some of you were following this local (to me) story a while back. Wow, this development in the Ricky Holland case really surprises me.
http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/9789513/detail.html
Posted by: Monica | September 5, 2006 02:55 PM
TNX, Mgt! My mother would have turned 84 today. That was a rare photo of all 4 of us kids~~even then, Chuck was always globe-trotting.
BTW, he was extended and sent to Iraq for 2 weeks so he won't be coming home now. He called me from Kuwait on Saturday morning as he was catching a flight into Iraq.
Posted by: CountryGal | September 5, 2006 03:26 PM
New entry ^^^^. A little book review.
Posted by: loretta | September 5, 2006 05:05 PM