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November 22, 2006
The Secret

For the past week or so, I have been recommending the movie, “The Secret” to friends on and off the blog. Several of the producers of “The Secret” appeared on Larry King Live last week, and the broadcast can be viewed here:
Most of the principles outlined in “The Secret” were not new to me. In my various journeys down rabbit holes of myths, religion, history, art, music, conspiracies and the occult, I had picked up a few tips along the way and utilized them with success. Nevertheless, this movie inspired me to take more direct action in my life to set goals, visualize and feel the goals being achieved, focus on the positive outcome of every circumstance rather than entertaining the negative possibilities, and declare my intentions to the “universe”.
Every day since viewing the movie, I have found a way to use the “secret” tools with people in my sphere of influence, including family, friends, neighbors and email pals. There really is no limit to where you can apply the law of attraction; and once you understand how it works, you can teach others to use it in their lives as well. I wake up now looking forward to the new day, eagerly awaiting the next wonderful thing that will occur!
The keys to living in the secret are simple: first, begin your day with an attitude of gratitude and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving; it must be a daily habit. Before heading off to school, my children share a list of five things for which they are thankful. They bring that feeling of gratitude with them to their environment, instead of any feelings of dread or worry about tests, homework, rules, and little social squabbles. This new attitude has produced some amazing results.
Next, we set real goals with real visuals: we write down the goals and post them on the refrigerator to remind us. We cut out pictures of things we want and tape them in a place we can see them. We write down our intentions in our plan books and on index cards to carry with us. I read affirmations while sitting at red lights. I visualize events occurring or the outcome of an unknown situation and wait for it to happen. And, it does. I ask for what I want and encourage others to ask for what they want. I believe the universe is conspiring to help me succeed and to give me everything I want, and each day several things happen to bolster that belief. I attract people and things into my life that propel me to high levels of creativity and happiness.
After only ten days, I can absolutely testify that this works. If you’re ready to make your life more incredible than you ever dreamed possible, watch “The Secret” and use the tools immediately. The results will surprise you.
Comments
Here are just a few examples of how this works.
I walked into a store yesterday in a rather bad neighborhood (after doing some business stuff I had to do), and as the automatic door opened, I thought, "The universe is conspiring to fulfill my needs!"
I did some long-overdue food shopping and read the People magazine in line (who the heck voted for George Clooney as "Sexiest Man in the World?")... and as I walked out to get my car, a 30-something Hispanic man with a little girl walked up to me and said, "I think I found your cell phone. I have it in my van."
I hadn't even noticed my stupid phone was missing. It must have dropped out of my purse on the way into the store, as I probably swung the purse over my shoulder, la la la la, whistling a happy tune ... whheeeeeeee out flies the cell phone, me, blissfully ignorant, walking into the store thinking, "La la, the universe loves me!"
And there he was, my guardian angel of the day, handing me my phone. He smiled at me and I smiled back and said, "Thank you!"
It was a little miracle.
Posted by: loretta | November 22, 2006 07:03 PM
Then, there is my parking karma. I have this incredible parking mojo where, even in a really crowded parking lot during a crazy event, I find a spot right in front.
Yesterday, I had to go to a store that was mobbed. I didn't want to shop, but there was something I had to get, so I said to myself, "I will get a good parking spot and I will get in a short line."
I drove up one aisle, some guy pulled out right in front of me next to the handicapped spot. I said, "Thank you!" to my mojo. I found the items I needed, walked casually to the lines, and got behind a person who had very few items. I thought I was in the cash-only line for a minute, but I wasn't. Anyhoo, it took 10 minutes, tops.
People in there were frowning, crowding, filling carts, yelling at their kids. I was "La la la la," enjoying myself immensely.
Posted by: loretta | November 22, 2006 07:04 PM
Good evening, everyone.
This is a fantastic entry, Loretta. I woke up this morning only to find an IM on my computer from my daughter. She told me that the new print that she had picked up for me in her college town and was bringing to me tonight had been stolen along with her bookbag and car radio. I had given her the money four months ago to purchase this framed print because it was beautiful and would go wonderfully in my freshly painted house. It was a black and white three dimensional of some trees and clouds. I LOVED it. I was really angry about the theft, but decided to apply "The Secret" based on an encouraging email from you and at the end of my day (which turned out fantastic, btw) I stopped at the Salvation Army Church up the street from me and picked up two pies for tomorrow. I felt moved to ask the volunteers if I could donate an extra 10 dollars extra for their soup kitchen. I don't know why I did that. Only that I was compelled and wanted to help.
Anyhoo, I want to wish each and every one of your readers and you a very Happy Thanksgiving.
I will continue to pray for those in need and a resolution to the murder cases being discussed in your previous entries.
Posted by: Monica` | November 22, 2006 07:09 PM
When I was in that store in the bad neighborhood, I had to leave my cart full of stuff on the sidewalk because there are barriers to prevent you from taking the carts in the parking lot.
I had to go get my car (which is when the guy with my cell phone walked up to me), and drive to the curb to get my groceries.
At my cart was some disheveled guy pulling out my bags. I know he wasn't stealing them, he was going to help me put them in my car. I know it's a scam, but I felt so sorry for him. I didn't need his help, but I felt bad that he had to do that for a few bucks. Or nothing.
The smallest thing I had in my wallet was a $5. I thought - what the helf. Tipped him the $5. He about fell over.
Posted by: loretta | November 22, 2006 07:16 PM
When you read or hear people say, "Why do these things always happen to me?" when they are complaining about a series of negative events, you have to realize that by focusing on bad things happening, you attract them.
The law of attraction works for everything. If you are negative, you attract negativity; paranoia begets more paranoia; liars attract lies; distrust breeds more distrust; fear draws cowards. So when you wake up in a cesspool of shame, fear, paranoia, hate, negativity and malice, you have to look around at who you attracted and where you are hanging out! You have no one to blame but yourself.
Posted by: loretta | November 22, 2006 07:24 PM
One of my mother's biggest pet peeves is when people say, "With my Luck..." and then proceed to talk about negative things coming their way.
It's as if they are actually wishing bad things on themselves and pegged themselves as doomed.
I constantly remind my 20 y/o assistant to not down talk herself. Positive affirmations work wonders.
Posted by: Monica` | November 22, 2006 07:29 PM
I can tell you that today has worked out perfectly. I had Thanksgiving a day early because my daughter can't be with us tomorrow. It was pretty darned good, if I may say so myself.
I have been a big believer in the power of positive thinking for a long time. It serves me well.
I prefer to associate with positive people or at least people who look for solutions rather than contributing to the problem.
Posted by: Barbara | November 22, 2006 08:12 PM
I mentioned last year the possibility of running away for the holiday. No turkey, no gathering, no nothing.
Then, Nessa's chin started to quiver, and she said, "No turkey?" in a tiny little-girl voice, and her eyes teared up.
So I guess we aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
Dang, she's good at that!
Posted by: vero | November 22, 2006 11:01 PM
Happy Thanksgiving to you all. We of course celebrate ours in October here but it's one of my favourite holidays. Hope you all enjoy good food, friends and family.
Posted by: CanadianGirl | November 22, 2006 11:07 PM
Thanks, Canadian Girl.
I grew up in Canada. Thanksgiving, there, always seemed more like a Harvest celebration than it does here.
Posted by: vero | November 22, 2006 11:16 PM
Good morning!
Wishing you all a very happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 03:56 AM
Hello there Mgt. I'm still up for a bit. I think we've all been baking today.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 04:20 AM
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 05:25 AM
Nadine, I didn't think to check back this morning. No-one is ever here until about 2:00 PM my time on a normal day.
Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
I'm going to be lonely today. Maybe CanadianGirl will be around to keep me company. Maybe our hostess, too.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 07:58 AM
Meh. I'm around. We're not cooking till later, and most of my prep work is done.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 08:12 AM
I doubt whether Michelle Young's family will find much to be thankful for, this year.
They don't even have their granddaughter with them. Jason will probably keep that child well away from that side of the family. How sad!
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 08:14 AM
Hey Vero! Nice to see you up and about.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 08:16 AM
Good morning, Mgt! It's a beautiful day out there. The lake is rippling and blue, the sky is very blue, and there is a little frost on the grass, but it's already starting to melt. It's supposed to be mild today.
Your buddy, Nathan, wanted leftover pizza for breakfast, and he's delighted with that. Now, he's having a special cake donut with chocolate icing.
He doesn't eat turkey, stuffing, cranberry, etc. He might eat mashed potatoes and gravy and a little corn, and that's it. So, cooking any kind of traditional T-day food for him is a waste of time. I can take or leave it, myself.
My mum is in the hospital right now, so she's not going to be doing T-day, and generally this is an "in-law" day, and Lauren is not home for the weekend, so I usually get myself adopted out.
For years, I'd go out of town or celebrate in some unconventional way. For awhile I went to the same place, but the couple broke up and now she's caring for her elderly parents.
So, today, I will repeat what I did last year which was to get a few movies and have a cozy movie marathon. Last year it was Star Wars (we watched all 6 episodes) and this year -- who knows? I know the video store is open and I have a gift certificate for free rentals. Yee haw.
If you'd like, I'll go down and take a few pictures of the November beach for you.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 08:37 AM
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.
The only comment I can add to the MY story is "what a tragedy". Unfortunately I am afraid it is going to play out like others we have seen, although I would like to think not.
Great entry Lo. That is the way I chose to live my life several years ago and what a difference it has made.
Great to pop in and see lots of familiar posters, as well as new.
I hope all of you have a wonderful day with family and friends.
Posted by: Anne-SC | November 23, 2006 08:43 AM
I can relax today because all the housework is done, I did laundry yesterday, and I don't need to go out and get any food.
Right now, I am sipping a really wonderful cup of coffee made with a combination of Doe's home-roasted birthday blend and a little bit of hazelnut. Wow. I wish I could share some with you right now, Mgt!
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 08:44 AM
Hey, Stranger! I was thinking about you recently, in fact, yesterday, and lookee here! The law of attraction working again! You were drawn to my blog to say hello. LOL
I hope you are doing well. I have missed seeing you and hearing from you. Don't be a stranger.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 08:46 AM
Pictures of the beach is a wonderful idea.
The weather will help you have a fun day, today. Wish I could think of some movie suggestions but we all like different things. My grandson really enjoyed "The Fastest Indian" with Anthony Hopkins.
It was exciting and heartwarming. There is a transvestite in the movie, but in the best possible way. The Nboy might ask a few questions, if you are okay with that.
Hopkins played a wonderful character in the movie.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 08:52 AM
The last time I watched a tranny movie with Son, it was "The Birdcage," and he kept saying, "Oh, that is so wrong! It's just so wrong," while he laughed his head off!
He was about 14 at the time. Every once in a while, it's good to answer a few of those questions, and, as far as I can see, if the child asks, it's time to answer. At Nathan's age, a lot of detail wouldn't be necessary.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:07 AM
You are so right, Vero.
My grandson had a good giggle when my daughter told him that some men like to wear ladies clothes. All he said was, "but he still looks like a man, mom". That was the end of it though.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 09:12 AM
My youngest daughter and her fiance came over last night for an early Thanksgiving dinner. The brought "The Da Vinci Code" with them so after dinner we watched that. I thought it was really good. Both hubby and daughter were a little disappointed but they had read the book and I didn't.
Today I will go to my sister's house and have the big meal there with my dad and the in-town siblings (along with Christy, her husband and William). It's going to be a great day!
Posted by: Barbara | November 23, 2006 09:12 AM
I, too, am drinking Misfit coffee, and running the first load of dishes. The Devilled eggs are made, and just need a sprinkle of paprika, the bread is dried for the stuffing, and the gauze is well-soaked with butter. Vanessa is going to call when she and Mike get home, at which point, we shall all descend on her house with stuffed turkey, Jim's Confetti Dip (already made), and fixin's for everything else.
We shall probably eat around 6, which is just about right for her, because she has dinner around noon at Michaels's mother's.
I'm excited this year, because I'm roasting a turkey again. The past three years, it has been done in the rotisserie oven. Someday, I'd like to barbecue one that way, but oven roasted is definitely better than those little counter-top rotisseries.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:14 AM
I hope you have a wonderful time, Barbara.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 09:15 AM
Also, in keeping with holiday eating, and throwing the diet out the window for a few days of guilt-free indulgence, my Misfit Coffee is accompanied by a Cadbury's Fruit and Nut bar.
Just thought I'd share.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:16 AM
Well, I asked Nathan what movies he wanted to get, and he said he wanted to have a Star Wars marathon again. Heh
We own Episode III, but we'd have to get the rest from the video store. I gave him three viewing choices: the little TV that plays videos brought down from L's room and put in front of the fireplace; the big TV in the playroom with the stereo, or on my new laptop with head-foams.
He wants to watch the marathon on my laptop! Ha! It has a 15" screen, so that should be cool. I watched a DVD of Pat Metheny's concert on my laptop last week and it was great. Watching movies on my laptop is going to be my next daily habit.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 09:19 AM
This is quite cruel, you know!
Coffee AND Cadbury's
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 09:19 AM
Good morning, Misfits. We are hosting T-day at our house and having our next door neighbors over. They will be moving out of state soon and this will be their last Thanksgiving on our street. They have lived here for 37 years. When I invited the matriach of the home over (only a couple of days ago) I thought she was going to cry. She is 80 y/o. She readily accepted and told me that she had cooked this meal for over 60 years of her life and she was done. Then she asked me if she could bring her son and a homemade chocolate pie.
I still have some cooking and cleaning to do. Dinner is at 4:00. Those deviled eggs are to die for. Thanks for the recipe.
Posted by: Monica` | November 23, 2006 09:24 AM
Both sons and family visiting today. Eat vast quantities of food, and watch Cowboy game. Happy TG everyone.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 23, 2006 09:30 AM
I suppose it's only fair that I share that deviled egg recipe here on the main blog. I shared it with the others elsewhere. If anyone wants my secret to perfect mashed potatoes and perfect gravy, let me know. I can cope and pastie the instructions from the kitchen.
The BEST Deviled Egg recipe came from a cookbook called Beat This! It really is a killer recipe.
12 large eggs, hard-boiled, peeled and sliced in half
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon prepared white horseradish, or to taste
8 oz. bacon, cooked very crisp, crumbled fine (drained)
4 scallions
paprika for garnish
Put yolks in a bowl, mash, add mayo, sour cream, mustard and horseradish. Mix in bacon and chopped scallions lightly. Use spoon to stuff yolk mixture back into empty whites.
Cover and chill until ready to serve. Makes 24. Double this recipe - you'll need them!
~~~~~~~~~~~
So far, the misfit friends who have made this are really pleased with it.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 09:33 AM
I have used turkey bacon in this recipe with good results. I don't know about using BACO's, though. LOL
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 09:36 AM
I did just the opposite vero; I went downstairs and worked out so I could make more room for today's food.
Posted by: Barbara | November 23, 2006 09:39 AM
Yup. These may be perfect. My mom's were too bland, and Jim's mom's, too vinegary. These are et up with yum.
Good to see you, Joe. I'm glad your family is with you.
Brendan is at his grandma's and his dad's inlaws this year. I finally realized I was putting my family through a lot of stress by insisting we all get together every year. Turns out, they were running themselves ragged trying to be in two or three places at once. I am touched that they wanted to please me, but don't want holidays to be a source of stress.
Hence, we are cooking later in the day, at Nessa's, and whoever wants to show up, will. Whoever can't make it gets leftovers tomorrow.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:41 AM
I'm going to eat leftover spaghetti from last night's meal. I might eat it cold, I might fry it up in a pan. I like it fried, too.
I also have garlic bread and chocolate. It's a perfect meal.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 09:42 AM
Now, see, Barbara, that's why you can walk around in a mini skirt, and I'm in oversized T-shirts and jammie bottoms.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:42 AM
Monica, it's so nice to have neighbours in. My dad used to round up strays--he would just ask anybody he saw that looked as if they didn't have a dinner to go to.
I'm too paranoid to do that, in this day and age.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 09:44 AM
Good Morning and Happy Thanksgiving!
No Thanksgiving day here, no special cooking, just a regular day.
Wish I had Doe's coffee to drink, too.
After making the lots of phone calls I have to do, I'll post some Blog entries (pictures) from the Beach.
Cheers!
Posted by: Anne | November 23, 2006 09:46 AM
The funny thing is, Vero, this old woman has given me a lot of grief over the past 11 years. She was nice to my face one minute and stabbing me in the back the next. I have always been very kind to her because I adore her grandchildren and her son. Her grandchildren are the same ages as my children and we have gone on many vacations together. Her granddaughter is my assistant and surrogate daughter.
Betty, (the 80 y/o) turned over a new leaf this spring. I'm not sure why, although I suspect it had something to do with her ex husband passing away and her realizing that she might not be long for this world.
Anyhoo, it doesn't really matter. I've thoroughly enjoyed her friendship and change in attitude this year. And, I'm happy to be sharing my home and food with them this Thanksgiving.
Posted by: Monica` | November 23, 2006 09:50 AM
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
We have a busy day planned here. We'll see if I can survive cooking fore 21 people. Hubby came home early yesterday to help with the prep work for which I'm truly grateful! He's a champ.
Anne, we're just going to have to fix that.
The deviled eggs are wonderful. I made a double batch. Thanks so much for the recipe!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 23, 2006 10:20 AM
Your all making me very hungry. lol I have the sudden urge to build a fire rent movies and have a English Toffee Cappuchinno from Tim Hortons (Canadian of course). Hope you all have great days whatever your doing.
Posted by: CanadianGirl | November 23, 2006 10:38 AM
Thanks, Canadian Girl! I'm about to make the stuffing. This new and relaxed Thanksgiving is a bit mind-boggling.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 10:41 AM
Psst, CanadianGirl- you have to try the deviled eggs. To die for!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 23, 2006 10:45 AM
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Those deviled eggs are something else. I have a really simple very tasty cheese ball recipe that puts store bought to shame if anyone is interested as well.
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 11:03 AM
Um, me please, Lisa. Haven't the foggiest idea how to make cheese balls or what they look like.
I love cheese, though.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:11 AM
CanadianGirl, don't know about you but I'm starting to get a major craving for turkey.
Do you have an Uncle Sam's near you? I used to get a great turkey sandwich in Vancouver.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:20 AM
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar (I like sharp)
1 cut chopped walnuts
Dijon mustard, fresh ground pepper and garlic, fresh and chopped or powder to taste.
Just mix it all up and form it into a ball and refrigerate until firm.
Great with crackers, bread, etc.
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 11:23 AM
I would add a little dill weed, a few shots of seasoned salt, some chopped parsely and chives. It's a great cheese ball as is, too.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 11:28 AM
Thanks, now I can imagine what they look like.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:28 AM
You can really get creative with it. I've also used a few shots of hot sauce and mixed in baby shrimp chopped up.
Cheese and crackers and the deviled eggs would make a meal for me, they are both so good.
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 11:30 AM
No Uncle Sam's here unfortunately Mgt. wish there was lol. I have copied both the deviled egg and the cheese ball recipe they both sound yummy, thanks for sharing!
Posted by: CanadianGirl | November 23, 2006 11:30 AM
Yes, I can see a "Fiesta" version of it - hot sauce, minced red pappers, a little bit of minced jalapenos, and a couple of teaspoons of taco seasoning or a little cumin and coriander.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 11:31 AM
Good day to you, CanadianGirl.
I love cheese and crackers. This is going to be a treat for me. All I need to buy are the walnuts.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:32 AM
ooO, we had chopped jalapenos on our quesadillas last night, Loretta. "Hot" with cheese is delicious.
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:35 AM
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving day and evening, everybody.
I will check in tomorrow and see whether any of you can get off your butts. LOL
Posted by: Mgt | November 23, 2006 11:57 AM
Happy Thanksgiving!
It's so nice to see it so lively here again.
Vero, I am very interested in this buttered cloth for the turkey. Can I use cheesecloth? I want to try this.
The movie marathon sounds good! I think we'll do that this evening. I thought I would be kind of sad today since our original plans fell through, but it's turning out to be a very peaceful day. I have so much to be thankful for, after all. If I can manage to rummage up some chocolate, it'll be perfect.
Posted by: Abby | November 23, 2006 12:07 PM
Yes, Abby. Soak a cloth in butter, butter the turkey, and put the cloth over it. Start your oven at 500, and drop the heat to 325 as soon as you put the turkey in. Baste frequently. Baste over the cloth, peel it gently back, baste under. Replace cloth. Repeat every 20 minutes to half an hour. The result is the crispiest-skinned, moistest turkey you have ever eaten.
It has to be butter.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 12:23 PM
Have a lovely evening, Mgt!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 23, 2006 12:27 PM
I'll bet that stock makes great gravy, Vero. You don't need to make a roux with butter, you can just use 1:1 on the renderings. Yummy!
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 12:33 PM
Good morning. I've never heard of Vero's method, but it must work wonderfully.
I've got our turkey soaking in brine with orange and pineapple juices and a healthy shot of Tequila.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 12:38 PM
You are right, Loretta. Plenty of butter in the drippings!
Nadine, it's what people did before there was tinfoil! Sort of in between the Colonial spit roasting, and our modern methods.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 12:41 PM
Thanks, vero. It sounds delicious. There's nothing worse than a dry turkey.
Posted by: Abby | November 23, 2006 12:43 PM
I just use a slice of turkey to hold the gravy and ground pepper. It's a little neater that way.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 12:51 PM
Happy Thanksgiving to all. This is my favorite holiday because it is so simple and so unlike all of our other holidays.
I am going to try the gravy as I simply cannot do it. Perhaps it's because I don't care for it. Any way, my son has learned what to expect(and it's not pretty) so he bought a container of gravy at the grocery store.
Now I am challenged and will be holding a gravy-off at about 5pm CST.
Thanks for the recipe. You have saved us from the tackiest Thanksgiving ever.
Vero, is it cheese cloth that you use on your turkey? And the turkey is never in the 500 degree oven?
I am thankful for all of the people in my life(especially my Misfit friends) which is the root of my good fortune. As always, I am most grateful and humbled by our magnificent armed forces who are away from home this holiday.
Posted by: Peggy | November 23, 2006 01:00 PM
Well, you have the recipe. You really don't need to use butter, just use the renderings from the turkey. 1 part juice (about a cup or so) to 1 cup flour. Toast the flour first. Add the stock and make a roux. The consistency should be like tomato paste. Then add the hot potato water, about the same amount, whisking the entire time. Let that come to a boil. Once it boils, the gravy should thicken with the consistency you like.
It's really fool proof.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 01:03 PM
Oh, and don't forget the Gravy Master! It has a long shelf life. You should get a few T-days out of it, I promise.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 01:05 PM
Cheesecloth works. The store was out of it when I looked, so I bought a pkg of birds-eye diapers. I washed the sizing out of them, and used one. I put it in a bowl with a stick of butter and nuke it until the butter melts. I then roll the cloth up so that the butter gets evenly distributed, and just spread it over the turkey that has been smeared liberally with soft butter.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 01:15 PM
You put the turkey in the hot oven and immediately turn it down. It never gets a chance to heat up that hot, but the skin gets seared.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 01:16 PM
Here in Hooterville, we're going to rotisserie our 10.5 pound bird on the BBQ. Red onion in the cavity and basted in wine (or beer).
When we cook in the firepit out camping, we just use beer and wrap the entire roaster pan in heavy foil, put it in the coals and cover with coals. Go ride the horses for 3-4 hours and then it's dinner time.
Since it's just DH and I this year we'll just have turkey, green beans, wheat dinner rolls, mashed potatoes and pie. I got him a boysenberry cobbler and a dutch apple crumb pie for me. Yummy!
Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!
Posted by: CountryGal | November 23, 2006 01:29 PM
Boyenberry cobbler sounds wonderful!
My MIL is making trifle for dessert. I'm eh on it but I have some German chocolate stashed from Sam's visit as back-up.
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 01:32 PM
Lisa, have you had Claim Jumper's chocolate layer cake? I think it's 6 layers and it's fabulous! They sell it (frozen) at some grocery stores as well as their restaurants.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 23, 2006 01:44 PM
A trifle needs copious amounts of sherry poured over it, and a good dollop of real whipped cream.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 01:56 PM
I'll have to look for that, CG. I don't eat a whole lot of chocolate but when I do, I like it to be extra good.
The turtles Anne sent for my birthday were high on the list.
Sam brought me fruit and nuts (raisins and hazlenut) in rum soaked milk chocolate and a bar each of dark and regular chocolate.
He also brought me a pack of German cigarettes that come 17 to the pack. Isn't that an odd number for a pack?
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 02:01 PM
That's a very odd number, Lisa. Interesting.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 02:06 PM
copius amounts of sherry
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Love it, Vero!
I love freshly ground black peppercorns too, Loretta. I like it more than most people, so I have to be careful when adding it while cooking.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 02:17 PM
Did I say that? OMG! I meant "copious."
And I haven't been drinking any at all!
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 02:19 PM
I'm a freshly ground black peppercorn freak, myself, Nadine. I can't have too much of that or garlic.
Bob has an old grinder from his mom and dad's house that's really cool. The only problem with it is we are constantly having to refill it. It's too small for the peppercorn lovers in this house.
Posted by: Monica` | November 23, 2006 02:19 PM
No, Vero, I was the one that spelled it wrong. I just got the giggles over the sherry. Sounds yummy!
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 02:20 PM
Monica, I'm the same way with fresh garlic too. No vampires around here! That's probably why we rarely have colds, too.
I've got several pepper grinders around here.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 02:22 PM
Any old way to use up stale cake. It's sort of like a bread pudding, only with cake.
I've got the turkey stuffed and ready to go, and the extra stuffing baking in a casserole.
...shh...don't tell Mike, but I snuck some mushrooms into it.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 02:24 PM
Welp, plans have changed. The wind is howling so we won't be taking the chance of using the BBQ. Turkey is now in the oven and that means turkey gravy!
Posted by: CountryGal | November 23, 2006 02:26 PM
We didn't stuff our turkey. I just made a batch of stuffing on the side. It was a real labor of love. Hot sausage, onion, celery, day old bread crumbs (white & wheat), fresh parsley, sage, rosemary & thyme (Scarborough Fair, anyone?), granny smith apples, and dried oceanspray cranberries.
It's the first time I've ever made stuffing from scratch. I hope it turns out.
Posted by: Monica` | November 23, 2006 02:29 PM
Sounds great, Monica!
Turkey in the oven sounds good to me, CG.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 02:30 PM
Those dried cranberries are excellent in oatmeal cookies with white chocolate chips.
Posted by: Lisa | November 23, 2006 02:31 PM
Nadine, Monica, get thee to Costco! Hehehe, they have a pepper blend called Telicherry that comes with its own grinder on the bottle (big bottle) and the flavor is swoon/worthy.
Happy Day to all. My wish for you is that you go to your beds this evening full, warm and wrapped in the love of your families.
Posted by: Wench | November 23, 2006 03:12 PM
Taking a break from watching "The DaVinci Code" which I find actually laugh-out-loud funny. The movie is a little better than the book, which I threw across the room twice because the dialogue was so LAME.
It's a pretty funny movie, but I am demented that way.
The food conversation in here is making me really hungry. I have cheesecake and chocolate for later as solace. heh
Nathan is halfway through Episode II. He and I are sitting side by side on the sofa. He's got headphones on watching his movie, and I'm watching mine on the laptop with headphones.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 03:17 PM
There is only so much Star Wars I can watch at a sitting.
Posted by: vero | November 23, 2006 03:21 PM
Mmm, cheesecake! I love that stuff.
Thanks for the pepper grinder tip, Wench, and your kind Thanksgiving wishes. I think it would be wonderful if every person had those wishes for everyone every day. What a different world it could be.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 03:24 PM
Hubby just finished hooking up the Very Early Christmas present to US. It's a LinkTheater High-Definition Wireless Media Player.
We can now watch all the great movies Hubby's got on his computer from his Dad on the TV in the front room where it's comfortable, and on a bigger screen. It's wireless and really COOL.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
http://www.buffalotech.com/products/product-detail.php?productid=96&categoryid=18
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 03:29 PM
This thing also plays all the VCD movie CD's I burned myself, and any other professionally recorded DVD disks.
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 03:34 PM
Ever try having a shrimp platter with cats in the house? The only one I'm worried about is the new kitty. We named her "Bonkers" for a reason!
Posted by: Nadine | November 23, 2006 05:04 PM
Is anyone ready for some pie?
I have enough leftover to feed all of you. Your choices are apple, pumpkin, blueberry or apple. I'll even brew a fresh pot of coffee. LOL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 23, 2006 08:43 PM
Our movie marathon continues. Nathan is watching Pokeman and I just finished watching "Seabiscuit." What a GREAT movie. I can't believe I haven't seen it by now.
I read the book a few years ago and LOVED it. I rented the movie last year and never got around to watching it. It's so good, I think I'll watch it again tomorrow. It's rare for me to watch a movie twice.
I returned "DaVinci Code." I didn't like it nearly as much, but it was pretty good. It was free, so what the hay.
Posted by: loretta | November 23, 2006 08:56 PM
BIG thumbs up on the turkey and gravy recipes! Thanks, vero and Loretta.
Hope everyone is having a great Holiday!
Posted by: Abby | November 23, 2006 09:53 PM
As for me, I'm watching football on this fantastic Thanksgiving Day. (I know that shocks you all that I'm watching football.)
One of our former students is playing in the BC/Miami game. He is very good too. His name gets announced often so that makes the game even more interesting to watch.
Posted by: Barbara | November 23, 2006 09:54 PM
Oh Loretta, Seabiscuit is one of my favorite movies.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 23, 2006 10:28 PM
How 'bout them Cowboys?
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 23, 2006 11:05 PM
Joe, I use to be a HUGE Cowboy fan when I was in highschool and Tom Landry was the coach. I never missed a game.
Hope you all had a wonderful dinner. Mine turned out very nice. It was very low key and relaxing.
The turkey is doing a number on me, though. I'm off to dream land.
Good night.
Posted by: Monica` | November 23, 2006 11:17 PM
A Happy Thanksgiving to all!
The Secret is such powerful stuff. My daughter and I saw it and have had great results with the principles. The possibilities are endless!
Posted by: Lily | November 23, 2006 11:28 PM
Night, Monica!
Captain, those Cowboy's did pretty good today. We caught the end of the game.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 23, 2006 11:34 PM
Good morning!
There are pink skies this morning. It is not quite light yet but I'm hoping for a bright day. It is dry but freezing cold.
Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Now, to catch up..
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 03:29 AM
I've just sugared up my latte and unwrapped my buttered toast.
Feeling good today!
Loretta, did that gorgeous boy of yours enjoy his movie fest?
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 03:33 AM
Seabiscuit! Fantastic movie. I nearly stomped a hole though the floor with excitement watching that film.
I agree with Vero about Star Wars. I can only take 'so' much of that stuff.
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 04:14 AM
Good morning, Mgt and all. It's not nearly as pretty today as yesterday, but it's still early. It might get better. Yesterday was exceptional.
Today the library is open, so if Nathan wants more movies, we'll get them there for free. He's now watching the third of three Pokemon movies from ones we got yesterday.
I'm going to watch "Seabiscuit" again before I return it. Then, I'm going to get a few movies at the library. There are a lot of movies I haven't seen in the last 5 years. Before that, I had seen most of them.
Years ago, we used to watch 3 or 4 movies a week. Not anymore!
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 08:47 AM
I you happen upon an obscure movie called "Cellular" with Kim Bassinger, take a chance on it. It was edge of your seat stuff. Unexpectedly good.
Sometimes word of mouth can be good advertising.
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 09:00 AM
I just finished doing quite a bit of my Christmas shopping. No, I did not get up at 4 a.m. to go fight with crazy people in stores. I got up late and shopped online. Who needs "Black Friday"?
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 09:25 AM
I'll need a couple more cups of coffee before I venture out there!
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 09:41 AM
They had places opening at midnight. I know for a fact that I could name people who were standing at the doors when they opened.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 09:59 AM
Loretta, if you enjoyed Seabiscuit, you would also enjoy Dreamer, with Kurt Russell and Dakota Fanning.
Another fabulous movie.
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 10:01 AM
Have a good one, everybody.
I'll be checking in on Monday. Ciao!
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 10:58 AM
Bye Mgt! See ya Monday.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 11:02 AM
I'm off to purchase pain relief!
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 11:04 AM
That doesn't sound good, Vero. I hope you are okay.
Posted by: Mgt | November 24, 2006 11:08 AM
I'm fine. Jim's back is giving him gyp.
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 11:42 AM
Glad to see this entry on The Secret! :D My life has changed in so many ways for the positive since applying these principles in a more directed and conscious way. Recently I was in a conversation on my cell phone that I wanted to continue having but I was in my car on a dark highway without a car charger. My phone was beeping and ready to shut off but something about the positive nature of the conversation kept it alive for over an hour! Then, as soon as I started discussing something from my past that was making me feel bad reliving it...beep beep beep...the phone cut me off. What an obvious lesson...getting rewarded for staying in the now and visioning what I want and getting cut off from focusing on the fear from the past. WOW!
Happy Thanksgiving today and all days. :)
Posted by: katie | November 24, 2006 01:58 PM
Thanks for the reminder Katie. It definitely is a healthy way of living, mentally speaking. And since 70% of all illnesses are caused by negative mental stuff, it helps the physical body too!
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 02:04 PM
Morning all! Is anyone besides myself considering investing in a treadmill after the holidays? Hehehehehe.
Posted by: Wench | November 24, 2006 02:09 PM
The sun burned away the clouds and we now have another gorgeous blue sky out there. It's a little chilly, of course, but the bare trees now give me an unfettered view of the lake from every angle. And you can see across for miles and miles and miles.
It's a little bit of infinity out my window.
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 02:10 PM
A warm welcome to Katie, btw. I am reading a rather entertaining but strange book by Robert Littell called Legends. It's a spy book, of course. If nothing else, it makes me really grateful to be a mousy little hausfrau in Pleasantville. My life is so good, it would be a sin not to get on my knees and kiss the newly poured macadam of my perfect little street.
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 02:13 PM
Pretty warm here.
Katie, I love that kind of syncronicity!
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 02:14 PM
Here is another book that fits with what you said Barbara and that my friends just turned me on to over Thanksgiving. The Biology of Belief by Bruce Lipton. He's a cell researcher.
Gotta get out and enjoy this gorgeous day now..cheers!
Posted by: katie | November 24, 2006 02:23 PM
I haven't watched "The Secret" yet, but from what I've been hearing, it sounds like it employs the power of positive thinking in a big way. That can only be a good thing.
It's a gorgeous sunny day here.
Posted by: Nadine | November 24, 2006 02:44 PM
If our brains generate electrical impulses as we think, then it's not a stretch to see that what we call "energy " is exactly that. I agreee with Katie and think that any skeptics could if they let themselves be receptive to the idea.
Today I am in the turkey coma. I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know someone personally who was in line for the Nintendo Wii at 2:30 am.
Posted by: Peggy | November 24, 2006 02:55 PM
I went to Walgreens, and turned right around and came back.
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 03:05 PM
I went to the Discovery Store, Brookstone and Plow & Hearth and never left my house.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 03:13 PM
That's the way to do it, Barbara. There is nothing that could coax me out shopping today, not even for groceries.
The only Christmas shopping I've done so far is online.
Posted by: Nadine | November 24, 2006 03:20 PM
I'm at my office typing words like "kidney bean" shaped intranuclear inclusions and Cellular "gigantism". Zzzzz
I'd rather be at Walgreens. Just shoot me now.
Posted by: Monica | November 24, 2006 03:22 PM
You probably don't want to read this link then Monica:
http://www.beliefbook.com/page.php?id=23
It's an excerpt from the book that Katie linked above. It's a fascinating topic and written in a way to make it interesting.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 03:30 PM
Here's a new theory on JFK assassination. George H W Bush involved.
http://tomflocco.com/fs/FbiMemoPhotoLinkBushJfk.htm
I guess that old Skull and Crossbones network is active. You know, a lot of people from Yale were recruited for CIA after the war.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 24, 2006 06:57 PM
Hey, Joe. That's not really a "new" theory. There was a movie I saw that linked that series of events (GHWB in Miami) and the assassination, as well as other interesting things. I can't think of the name of the video, but I'll see if I can go find it for you. A must-see for sure.
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 07:10 PM
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4315024059102108031&q=Kennedy+conspiracy
Here it is. I think there's another.
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 07:13 PM
Well, I braved the shopping day from helf and got one present. Had lunch and headed home. Yikes!
Parking lots out there--and those are the roads. Nope. I'll go some other time when it isn't so crazy or I'll do like Barbara and shop online.
We did get a new World Market up here and I just had to go. It's now my newest favorite store.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 24, 2006 07:23 PM
I like World Market. I can get English stuff, like Marmite and Coleman's mustard,and Dutch licorice.
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 07:38 PM
I really need to turn you folks onto online shopping. I bought 10 presents today in less than one hour. And I don't have to carry them to or from the car. They will be delivered right to my front door. For free!
It's the way to go.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 07:39 PM
You're brave, CG!
I've never gone shopping on Black Friday. We always stay home and put up at least one Christmas tree. There is nothing in those ads that I'd get up that early for, wait to find a parking space, or stand in line to purchase. I don't have that kind of patience I guess.
Evening all!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 07:45 PM
Oh I got up early, but not to go shopping. I wanted to find an onion slicer for hubby and see what was out there present-wise and ended up at the new WM. They had everything but a slicer!
Posted by: CountryGal | November 24, 2006 07:48 PM
I woke up really early this morning too, CG. You'd think I'd sleep in today.
I was just on Cabela's site to look for something for FIL. I didn't see an onion slicer though.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 08:04 PM
I know that nobody here cares about the LSU/Arkansas game but it was pretty interesting. While I was watching I got curious as to why Arkansas is pronouned "Ar-kan-saw" and Kansas is pronounced "Kan-zass". I didn't get a definitive answer but there is at least one really funny website out there with an explanation. The only thing I found is that they are the only state where it's been legislated how it is pronounced but not why.
Anyway, it was pretty interesting.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 08:26 PM
I watched it. I think. It has all blurred into one endless game.
Posted by: vero | November 24, 2006 08:29 PM
I'm all about New Word Market, CG. I did my last decorating adventure there 5 years ago.
I've since repainted and have NOTHING hanging on my walls. I'm sure it will be fantabulous, once I figure stuff out.
Bob's got a charge at NWM. I may need to go back there after the holidays are over and sales are in full force.
Posted by: Monica` | November 24, 2006 08:32 PM
Oh, I'm not watching football tonight. We're watching an oldie but a goodie: To Catch a Theif with Cary Grant and Grace Kelly.
I will be watching football tomorrow! (Notre Dame/USC) I'm hoping to see an upset.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 08:32 PM
Oh, I meant to add, Bob only goes there for his Jamaican Jerk Seasoning.
He jerks chicken for the annual office pot luck.
Jamaican Jerk seasoning takes/makes hamburgers soar to the next plain.
Posted by: Monica` | November 24, 2006 08:35 PM
Monica, that sounds really good. I'll have to look for it the next time I go.
I'm still trying to find CG an onion slicer. LOL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 08:36 PM
Speaking of movies, has anyone seen Déjà Vu yet?
If so, what did you think?
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 08:45 PM
I have not Doe. I only see about two movies a year at the theater and this is not the time of year that we go. I see lots of movies on cable but no new releases.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 08:51 PM
I hear ya, Barbara. It's on our list (a very short one) to rent when it comes out on DVD.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 08:58 PM
Evening all. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!
Posted by: stacey | November 24, 2006 09:32 PM
Stacey, ours was a very nice Thanksgiving. Mister Turkey came out perfectly delicious and moist. The brine method is a keeper.
Posted by: Nadine | November 24, 2006 09:35 PM
You too Stacey! I hope all the "elementary" germs have vacated the premises and all is well. Happy Thanksgiving and beyond to you and yours.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 09:35 PM
Hi, Stacey! I hope you and your family had a wonderful day.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 09:40 PM
Barbara, we're still working on evicting those "elementary" germs, but they should be gone soon.
Thanks, Doe. We had a good day. Hey anyday I don't have to cook is a GREAT day! We went to the in-laws and then out to a movie.
Nadine, brine?
Posted by: stacey | November 24, 2006 09:42 PM
I agree. I won't be cooking for quite some time, Stacey.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 09:46 PM
I'm turning Doe into a convert to "The SisterHood of Dining Out". She is taking baby steps, but she's getting there!
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 09:51 PM
Yep. I'm lovin' it too!
It's really nice to have a full tummy and walk back into a sparkling clean kitchen Barbara!
I slowly subscribing to the theory that kitchens are meant to be looked at and not messed up.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 09:58 PM
I just need to get a brand new stove, cabinets, counters and floor and then it will be the perfect, beautiful room too pretty to mess up.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:00 PM
I had spaghetti Wednesday night and yesterday I had leftover spaghetti and cheesecake.
Today I had leftover cheesecake and tonight I had --- heh --- spaghetti.
I am riveted to this Robert Littell book. I will probably finish it tonight and start my next Robert Littell book tomorrow. I got a copy of The Company, which is 894 pages long, so it will take me more than a day to read it.
I thought I had read it before when Harriet mentioned it a few weeks ago, but looking at the reviews on Amazon, I realized that I hadn't read it. I have read most of Littell's books, but not the two I am reading this holiday weekend.
I am on a Littell marathon now that I ran out of movies.
I'll have to write a book review of Legends when I finish it. It's kind of goofy in parts, but I really like this author. This book is not as good as a few others I have read.
I highly recommend The Sisters, The Revolutionist (awesome, awesome book), The Visiting Professor (very funny book), and reall just about any Littel title you can find at the library.
That is, if you like spook fiction like I do. I used to read about 12 spook fiction books a year for many, many years. So, take that for what it's worth!$$
Posted by: loretta | November 24, 2006 10:01 PM
Tom Clancy is spook fiction but I have a feeling it's not the same. I really like Tom Clancy books.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:16 PM
The record so far is four consecutive days dining out and I was one happy camper.
After cooking the meal I cooked yesterday, I'm back in the zone. LOL!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 24, 2006 10:16 PM
I have five consecutive days: Monday-Friday. Sometimes we cook on Saturday and quite often we have soup and sandwiches on Sunday because we eat out for lunch after church. It's a rough life but somebody has to do it. I figure I'm just doing my part to keep the economy going.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:36 PM
Hi all.
Barbara, in Kansas the Arkansas River is pronounced "Ar-KAN-sas". In Colorado, Oklahoma and Arkansas, it's prounounced "Ar-kan-SAW." I don't know why; I must have been dozing during my civics lesson that day.
Posted by: Vix | November 24, 2006 10:42 PM
That was discussed in the websites a looked at Vix.
The basics is that "Kansas" was named after the Kanza native americans. The rest is very unclear but there are many "theories". It's a pretty interesting (and short) little research. I don't want to give any of it away because you still have to pretty much form your own opinion. It was a nice diversion today.
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:47 PM
Oh, and people in Kansas call themselves "Kansans" and people in Arkansas call themselves "Arkansawyers".
(Not all the Brits are CONVINCED we are nutz!)
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:54 PM
I meant "now".
Posted by: Barbara | November 24, 2006 10:54 PM
I haven't read here yet, but I think I know the direction of the message.
You know, Lo, those many years ago I found John through manifestation. I also found or refound # 2 that way, I have also found the meaning of my life that way and also have my children done.
As you know, I sent you a few years ago those Visualization tapes for your children. 1980 is when I first realized the power of that through Jonathan Parker Which ever is your cup of tea and what ever way you see it, there is a power of the Universe to manifest what you want and need in your lives. Want/need is not a needy thing it is a necessary thing that happens when you will ask for it. The visualization is a tool to bypass those blocks of negativity. We have all had them. The process works and I will endorse or testify whatever works for you! xxoo as usual
Posted by: meehatmahghosties | November 25, 2006 12:28 AM
Learn meditation and learn about your chakras and learn how to channel energy. Visualization is another helpful tool that got moi started, listen, hear and learn about the universal energy that is just waiting to be utilized. I will try to find the truth movie and see what I think. It is not necessaire to pay a lot of money for the experience. Reiki is good after you have the energy channeling gorn awn. I use it and my children use it. We have never gone wrong with that. moi
Posted by: moiremahghandish | November 25, 2006 12:33 AM
Alone again. Quite nice.
Recently, I have delved into the curatives for the fibromyalgeecks of which I gottem and I am on the cusp of my own curation. Always seek and never be still about pain, loss, angst remorse regrets and never guilt. Always seek.
Pour moi, the essential oils, the meditation, the exercise of the water and the channel of energy and love from the universe.
You are already calling moi hacky and slacky and wacky, but hey, it works for me.
Posted by: moiremahghandish | November 25, 2006 12:37 AM
Moi is a wise bird.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 12:44 AM
I just saw that there are two little boys missing up in Minnesota. They've been missing since Wednesday.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15881304/
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 08:43 AM
I just watched a piece on ESPN (yes, I know I'm sick. I'm watching ESPN and my husband isn't even in here). It was about the Wake Forest football season and how they've been inspired to perform much better than anyone thought they could. It was a really good example of what Loretta, Katie and Moi have been discussing here.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 10:39 AM
Good morning!
That's so sad, Barbara.
Tristan has a medical condition that requires medication, and he didn't take it Wednesday morning, White said. He "loves water" and had wandered off before, "but we always found him. This is the first time we didn't find him."
"Dive teams equipped with underwater cameras checked lakes and ponds, although McCabe said ground searches had found no breaks in the ice where the boys might have slipped in.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/11/24/bc.missingchildren.ap/index.html
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 10:41 AM
So let me get this straight. The boys are outside, being supervised from inside.
OK...I used to do that with my four-year-old, but not the two-year-old. I had a small, sturdily-fenced yard, every bit of which was visible from my kitchen windows.
Of course, being as cold as it must have been, I'm sure that their parents didn't expect them to stay outside very long, and neither could a prospective kidnapper.
I'm glad they haven't found holes in the ice. I'm wondering if they have just wandered off and holed up somewhere. I hope they have found a place to stay warm, if that's the case.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 11:31 AM
I hope they are found safe. It's disturbing that they haven't had any clues as to where they may be. If they wandered off you would think that someone would have seen them. Maybe the tracking dogs can find something.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:36 AM
Really. How far can kids that small wander, anyway?
How isolated is the community?
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 11:45 AM
On the other topic of the Wake Forest football player, here is a good article:
http://www.ajc.com/gatech/content/sports/gatech/stories/2006/10/31/1101abbate.html
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:47 AM
I'm still on the little kids. Do you have Google Earth? I've been trying to find the area in google maps, and I'm scared to download anything onto this wonderful new computer of mine, not wnating to a) slow it down, or b) import something I don't wanna.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 12:04 PM
I don't, Vero.
I sure hope they are checking the cars in the area. Remember the kids that crawled into the trunk?
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 12:08 PM
Haven't read the article, but I hope they check the trunks of any cars. I remember that one tragedy where they found the boys in the car trunk.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 25, 2006 12:09 PM
I sure hope so, too! It's getting late to find them alive.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 12:12 PM
Great minds think alike.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 12:12 PM
It's extremely rare to abduct children in pairs off the street or from a playground. I know of cases where families were taken hostage at gunpoint, but not children off the street.
My guess is that they got trapped in something or fell into something.
Vero - Google Earth will not hurt your new computer! It's a really neat program. However, you don't have to download it to use it. Just type in an address on Google or a location, and use the "satellite" view option.
It works the same way.
Posted by: loretta | November 25, 2006 12:13 PM
They could be buried under some leaves or branches or something. Unlikely they were kidnapped. I think they are out in those woods somewhere. Piles of fallen leaves are irresistable to little kids.
I hope they find them alive.
Posted by: loretta | November 25, 2006 12:16 PM
They weren't dressed to withstand harsh weather. I hope they find them soon.
"Tristan is about 3 feet 6. He was wearing a dark blue Spider-Man jacket with yellow trim, jeans and winter boots. Avery, about 2 feet tall, had on a gray pullover sweat shirt with "Timberland" on the front. He was wearing faded jeans and Spider-Man tennis shoes."
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/831593.html
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 12:38 PM
From another article:
"The searching Friday was done primarily by professionals, including five dog teams from the Minnesota Search Dog Network and several members of Team Adam, part of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children."
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 12:46 PM
How far could little boys like that get on their own? They're only 2 and 4, right? I agree with the trapped or fell- Ihope they're found soon.
Posted by: Abby | November 25, 2006 01:04 PM
I hope those little guys are found safe. They can be awfully adventurous at that age.
Posted by: Nadine | November 25, 2006 01:25 PM
Another clue to where they are could come from whatever favorite TV shows or movies they've seen recently.
Kids have pretty vivid imaginations. There's no limit to the mischief they can get into.
Posted by: Nadine | November 25, 2006 02:05 PM
Those who followed the Michael Peterson case have probably already seen this site but I just came on it today:
http://www.peterson-staircase.com/index.html
It debunks the movie made by the french filming crew. It's quite an involved site but it has some really interesting information.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 04:01 PM
Here is an article I thought Captain Joe and others might find interesting. I haven't checked it out yet so I don't know if the site is still having bandwidth problems.
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/1125mydeathspace1125.html
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 04:17 PM
Barbara, Dateline is doing a story on the Peterson case tonight. I don't know if this is a repeat or something new. I'm going to be watching 48 hours on the JonBenet Ramsey case. I guess her dad is going to be interviewed about his thoughts on Karr.
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 04:19 PM
Darn! I hope that someone can watch and post some notes. I'll be watching ND/USC tonight.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 04:22 PM
I'll be at the theater until 10-ish, so I'm not going to be available.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 07:31 PM
So far I would have been better off watching Dateline. This isn't much of a game.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 08:36 PM
It's gotten better.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 09:42 PM
On the Michelle Young case, one of the posters on CTV, Serpico2, posted that the automatic garage door opener was broken. In a later post he mentioned that he attended the funeral. This leads me to believe that he may well be a family member and would know if the garage door was broken. It may be the way that the killer entered the house.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 09:58 PM
That had to be someone who knew that the garage door was broken. Was it just the garage door opener that didn't work so the door was never locked or did the garage door not close all the way?
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 10:03 PM
It's a noisy and conspicuous way to enter a house late at night, especially if Jason wasn't expected home.
Nope. Don't buy it.
Posted by: loretta | November 25, 2006 10:11 PM
How did the killer get out of the house without being seen. Where was his vehicle? Where was the blood? What was he wearing?
I suppose it's possible to open the garage door just enough to get through, but how would he know it wasn't electric?
How did he know it hadn't been fixed yet if it was electric and on manual? Unless you think this person staked out this house for several days, knew everyone's routine, knew Jason was gone for th night, knew the garage door wasn't fixed, knew the dog wouldn't bark, etc.
Those are coincidences that just don't happen with random serial killings or cult killings or teen/goth killings or home invasion killings.
Besides, what is the motive for some stranger to do this and leave the child alive? It makes no sense.
Posted by: loretta | November 25, 2006 10:17 PM
It may well be a plant and disinformation to throw off the police or even the jury pool. The Jasonites have suddenly become quiet lately and maybe the lawyers have told them to STFU, that their misleading statements ain't helping their buddy's case.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 10:19 PM
Plus, I'm sure they dusted for prints on all the doors, the garage, Michelle's car, the windows that open, etc.
I mean, these aren't the Keystone Cops, according to Lesa, who says the Raleigh police are not amateurs.
Posted by: loretta | November 25, 2006 10:19 PM
I would also think that if items were stolen they would make that public. If somebody tried to pawn that stuff, they would want people to know what to look for.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 10:37 PM
I think the most damning evidence is the 911 tape. I think the toddler names the dad as the perp. I think the tape released to the public has a couple of deletions on it to take out the phone number that also deleted a key statement by the toddler. I'm sure that the virgin tape will nail Jason.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 10:44 PM
If that were the case, I have to believe they would have arrested him already.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 10:48 PM
I'm quite sure that the toddler's statement probably is not considered eligible by most judges to be used at a trial, but the tape may be played before a jury for other reasons. I'm sure any defense attorney would object to it's admittance. That doesn't mean the jury pool can't hear it. It's already out there.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 10:54 PM
I don't know about that Joe. I can't buy that. The family would have fought to keep him from taking that little girl away if that were true.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 10:57 PM
I'm just saying that the toddler's statement is probably not admissible but it still is a telling statement. Since it can't be admitted, it doesn't make any difference where the toddler is placed. If the toddler has an "accident" I'm sure that it's curtains for Jason. It's in his interest to keep the child alive.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:03 PM
That's not exactly what I meant. Michelle's sister was right there with the toddler. If the child had told her aunt that her daddy did it, the father never would have seen that child. He would have had to file charges to find out where they had taken her. I just can't find any reason to believe that the toddler implicated her father.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:06 PM
You can hear Cassidy on that 911 tape talking in the background. As I've said before, I sure wish I could hear what she was saying to Michelle's sister.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 11:10 PM
http://www.4shared.com/file/6418651/2580f135/daddy.html
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:12 PM
I'll have to play detective and question where you got that tape. Why just that little clip and not the entire 911 call?
It's too easy to fake stuff like that.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:19 PM
Websleuths had it. I don't know its origin.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:30 PM
I agree. Where did that come from?
The 911 tape was linked a couple of entries ago. You can hear Cassidy in the background.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 11:34 PM
I don't believe it's legit.
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:35 PM
Here is the originall 911 call. You can hear that "Daddy Did It" very clear at the end of the tape or around 5 min 22 secs into it.
The clip that Joe linked hasn't been altered just enhanced or isolated.
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:35 PM
Sorry about that. Here's the link ~
http://www.wral.com/news/10252313/detail.html
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:35 PM
In the background and very lightly Cassie says "Daddy did it".
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:36 PM
Here it is:
http://www.wral.com/download/2006/1106/10255907.mp3
Posted by: Barbara | November 25, 2006 11:36 PM
Curtains for Jason.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:40 PM
On the MP3 it's right at 5:00 into the tape. You can clearly hear her say "Daddy did it" and the Meredith says "Okay".
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:40 PM
The family would have fought to keep him from taking that little girl away if that were true....
There is nothing they can do until Jason is arrested/convicted. Meanwhile he is keeping her away from Michelle's family, and is still "hiding" in Bravard.
If they had physical evidence he would have been arrested already - my guess is that they are still trying to find it.
Posted by: lurker | November 25, 2006 11:44 PM
It sounds like the baby says it the first time at 2:00 min into the call and repeats again at 5:00 into it.
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:46 PM
I think that when the child is sent to the Fishers, it will signal the arrest of Jason.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 25, 2006 11:49 PM
Maybe the word of Cassidy on a tape is not considered sufficient evidence? It sounds clear to me, but only after I heard it isolated.
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 11:51 PM
I guess I need a hearing aid. I did hear her early on saying something about Daddy. I didn't hear that later in the tape.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 25, 2006 11:52 PM
The one at 2:00 sounds to me like, "she's got booboos."
Posted by: vero | November 25, 2006 11:55 PM
It's very damning if you ask me. Right after she says "Daddy did it" at 5:00 spot she says something about "Boo boos everywhere".
He wouldn't want the baby to be with Michelle's family so they could question her. Maybe that's why he took her away from them. I think it's odd that he would take the child away from his wife's grieving family, even if he was grieving. I thought it was very self absorbed and uncaring.
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:55 PM
Doe, the second time is shortly after the 911 operator connects Meredith to the sheriffs dept. She is waiting for the connection and you can hear the (pretty clearly) the baby saying her daddy did it. I only needed to turn up the volume a little.
Posted by: Monica` | November 25, 2006 11:58 PM
Doe, it got by me, too, because it's so much quieter than the adults' voices. You have to turn it up loud to hear it.
She says more after that, but I'd have to hear it really loud, too.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 12:00 AM
Thanks, Monica. I'll try it again.
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 26, 2006 12:00 AM
Still and all, unless her mother screamed and woke her, wouldn't Cassidy have been asleep in her own room?
Unless Michelle allowed Cassidy to sleep with her while Daddy was gone.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 12:03 AM
With my Sony head foams, I could hear her mention "Daddy" twice for sure.
But, he has enough time to reprogram her, if she, in fact, implicated him.
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 12:12 AM
And THAT's why he took her.
Son of a B@#ch!
Oh, he is SO guilty.
You posting that just made it all click. I was a "probably," until I read that.
B@st@rd!
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 12:41 AM
o/t: Barbara, I love your sports updates! Sports Illustrated comes in my name, not hubby's. LOL
Re: Michelle Young - scared to post this anywhere but here goes:
) Are airbags safe for pregnant women? I have read that during the accident the airbag on the passenger's side was turned off? There is no verification of this. If it is true, there is no way to know if MY chose to do it. Could the force of an airbag deploying harm an unborn child?
2) The press harassment: Maybe there is not much new but not for a lack of trying? Just because there is no story does not mean that the family (the Youngs and Fishers) are not being hounded by the media. The press is relentless. I can recall many local crime stories that were just as sensational, IMO. There can only be so many "sources close to the investigation" or "friends of...." The reporter loses credilbility if no one goes on the record with information.
In light of the investigation of the 3 Wake Co deputies and the debacle of the Durham Co DA, I can imagine the sheriff does not want any unnecessary negative publicity.
3) Meredith talking to the child during the 911 call was not necessarily her first conversation with the child. It is my instinct to hug nephews/nieces upon seeing them. IMO, after seeing the child's footprints all over the house, I would have picked her up. Meredith may have done the same. IOW, there may have already been dialoge btwn MF & CY that led to what was said on the 911 call. Perhaps Meredith gave LE more information than has been disclosed.
Posted by: lurkyloo | November 26, 2006 02:38 AM
Good morning!
Lukyloo, I was thinking about the 911 call and what the baby might have told Meredith a lot last night. Meredith seemed so distracted with talking to the 911 operator and discovering her sister that I'm not sure what Cassidy said was sinking in during that desperate time. Maybe. She said that she was normally good under pressureful situations. Regardless, her compassion for her neice was very evident in the call.
After thinking about the call, I feel certain she discussed with the arriving officers what Cassidy had told her. The officers may have even witnessed the baby it saying again and put that in their notes.
I doubt that Cassidy would ever be called testify, but the first officers on the scene could definitely say what she said to them.
With all that being said, don't you find it interesting that Michelle's mother said the following when she was interviewed?
"I need to take care of my Cassidy," she said, referring to her young granddaughter, who was unharmed during the attack. "That's all."
Had JY already taken Cassidy away from them when she said that? Had Meredith already told her mom what Cassidy said at this point?
I'm thinking so.
Posted by: Monica` | November 26, 2006 10:24 AM
Good morning!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 26, 2006 10:50 AM
The "Daddy did it" tape has been pulled. Hmmmm.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 11:47 AM
Hi Joe. Do you mean the full 911 version or the isolated one or both?
Hmmmm, indeed.
Posted by: Monica` | November 26, 2006 11:49 AM
The site that had the small isolated snip
http://www.4shared.com/file/6418651/2580f135/daddy.html
W/S is saying that LE had it pulled.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 11:55 AM
I can see why.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 11:57 AM
Well, if that's the case, the fat lady is singing. The full version is still up. Cassidy says *daddy did it* two times in the full version.
LE would have no reason to have WS take the small version down unless they are planning on using that tape as evidence against JY in my opinion. They probably can't get the full 911 tape removed as it was reported via the media and freedom of information act.
Very interesting.
Posted by: Monica` | November 26, 2006 12:03 PM
Happy Sunday, all. It's another beautiful day out there and I have to go finish the yard work. I am grateful to have yard work, because that means I have a YARD.
I will be hiring landscape type guys next summer, though. For sure.
Every day when I think of it, I'll be sharing the thought of the day! (We used to have KN post "Just For Today" but now we'll have something more focused on the laws of attraction.)
Today:
Happiness is a "STATE OF BEING".
In today's world we make it a condition.
In being happy, only YOU have the power within to ALLOW HAPPINESS AS YOUR STATE OF BEING.
And don't forget the gratitude game.
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 12:18 PM
Do you mean that you're going to hire ILLEGAL ALIENS?
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 12:27 PM
Ummm. This is not Texas! LOL. The guys who do the neighbors' lawns look legal to me. heh.
I'll just piggy back onto the neighbors' lawn service.
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 12:35 PM
What, Joe? No teenagers in your neighbourhood?
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 12:48 PM
The Home Depot is lousy with illegals waiting for people to come by and pick up a couple to work on projects etc. Every little town has a corner where they hang out for farmers to pick them up for work. The foundry where I work (one day a week) is 90% mexican. Many of them leave and come back with a different name (and different SSN). Yeah, Texas is lousy with 'em.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 01:06 PM
I listened with headphones on this time and I definitely heard the "daddy did it" comment coming from the child. (Major apologies for my skepticism last night, Joe!)
This is probably going to turn out to be like the background comments during the 911 call in the Peterson-east case. It's meaningful to all the armchair detectives but it will never come in to the courtroom.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 01:09 PM
What puzzles me is the silence by the media. You'd think that they would be playing this up on Greta or NG. Surely they have audio people who can enhance this tiny utterance by the lovely child who witnessed this horrible event.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 01:16 PM
Maybe they have been told by LE to lay off.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 01:23 PM
That's a distinct possibility (that she witnessed it) or she could be talking about something totally unrelated that her daddy did. Two year olds are known to change the subject frequently. The police know a lot more about it because they have the sister who was there to hear everything in context.
The reason that I'm inclined to agree that it is significant and implicates her father is because the very first words out of Meredith's mouth on the tape, once she is connected with the sherrif, is "I'm also here with....." and then the tape is cut off. Her voice sounds just a bit more excited at that point as well.
I don't think any of the talking head shows can touch this unless they want the possibility of a lawsuit.
The additional voice heard on the Michael Peterson 911 call was never dealt with by the media to my knowledge.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 01:24 PM
Barbara, one of the first officers on the scene at the Christa Worthington murder was able to interview little Ava (2 1/2 y/o) and relay what she said on the witness stand. I'm not sure if it varys from state to state, but little Ava's comments were allowed in at her mother's murder trial via the investigating officer.
If Meredith did relay what Cassidy said to LE when they arrived, I'm sure that Cassidy would have been questioned on some level of the investigation.
Just my two pennies.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 01:35 PM
I think you're right about that. I think they can testify as to what the child told them without calling the child.
I just meant that I don't think they'll make an issue about what is heard in the background on the 911 tape.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 01:42 PM
Maybe they will use and enhanced version of the 911 tape in tandem with an officer relaying what Cassidy said? I dunno. I just can't figure out why in the world LE would ask the person on the other forum to take down the isolated part of the tape when the full version is readily available for everyone to listen to and hear with the volume turned up. It doesn't make any sense to me.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 01:46 PM
Your guess is as good as mine Monica. Maybe Canadian Girl will shed some light on the LE thought processes.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 01:49 PM
CG had to go to work. Duty called>
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 01:52 PM
The other things that they know that we don't know is if all pieces of his alibi check out. That would include but not be limited to the phone call, the hotel check-in, the business meeting and the print out/fax.
I think just like in the Peterson-west case that they can be patient and build a solid case.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 01:59 PM
Good afternoon!
Very interesting information. I'm wondering though, if this is true, why would he be allowed to keep the child with him?
Posted by: Abby | November 26, 2006 02:05 PM
I understand that it's a different situation but Michael Peterson kept the house and the whole family, including his wife's daughter. They can't remove the child from him without charging him. It just makes it that much more difficult for the family. If I was the grandmother I don't know how I would survive if I knew he killed my daughter and he still had my grandchild in his possession.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 02:09 PM
Tony Jackett was allowed to have visitation with Ava during the entire time he was under an umbrella of suspicion. Had Christa not appointed a gaurdian prior to her death, I'm sure Ava would have been placed with Tony. I know he turned out to be innocent, but I'm just saying when LE wasn't sure who murdered Christa, Tony still got to visit his little girl.
I think that Michelle's mother was being cryptic in her message to the public when she said that she needed to help Cassidy and "that's it" and pleaded for tips. Why not say she needed to help Cassidy and her dad (Michelle's husband)?
I might be reading too much into her statement, but I don't think so.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 02:22 PM
Regardless of what some people think, it's really not that easy to take a child out of his or her legal home. You have to prove that something illegal and/or severely detrimental to the child is going on.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 02:24 PM
Add that comment to the lack of any contact between the family and the husband at the funeral and I think it's a pretty good guess.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 02:24 PM
When I brought it up yesterday I wasn't talking about doing anything legal. I would have taken the child illegally and the father would have to find me before I would give up the child.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 02:26 PM
I would have taken the child illegally and the father would have to find me before I would give up the child.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have to agree with you there, Barbara. If for one moment I thought Jason was responsible for Michelle's death, that's what I'd have done. It's not looking good for him at all.
Posted by: Nadine | November 26, 2006 02:37 PM
Not to change the subject but as much as I don't like the Browns, I'm feeling really sorry for them today. (But I'm still REALLY happy that the Bengals are winning!)
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 03:30 PM
There was a case recently in MI, the Florence Unger murder that Monica will remember well that involved grandparents and custody and it was heartwrenching to see the grandparents go through that on top of their daughter being murdered.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 03:42 PM
I would be in jail before I would give up the child. That's easy for me to say because I'm not in that situation and I pray that I never am.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 03:44 PM
What was the outcome Lisa? Did the grandparents get custody of the child?
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 03:45 PM
They did and I'm not positive of the sequence but I don't think it was until after he was convicted.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 03:47 PM
Back to the "daddy did it" comment, that isn't reliable even if it was said in context. I remember one time when my daughter was convinced that her father had done something that never happened. She had apparently had a dream but she was just sure that her memory was reality. It was very real to her.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 03:49 PM
In the Unger case, both young boys stayed at the maternal grandparent's house until the outcome of the trial. Their father was convicted and I believe he got LWOP. His parental rights were recently terminated after his conviction, although the boys did not visit their dad in jail while he was awaiting trial.
The paternal grandparents are now trying to receive visitation through the courts.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 03:59 PM
You are right, Barbara, at it's very best the statement would be circumstantial. But, if it were to be added to other compelling circumstantial and physical evidence it will be devastating for JY.
One time I dreamed that my aunt's exhusband, Uncle J, had died of high cholesterol. He raised chickens and was a big fan of eggs. LOL
Anyhoo, I thought he was dead for years (because of my dream) until my mom set me straight on the matter. It was pretty scary to see him walking around my granddads funeral when I was convinced he had died. Hahaha.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 04:03 PM
I knew you would remember, Monica.
That was such a sad case all the way around.
Oh! Don't anyone waste your time/money of Internal Combustion, the book about the Seaman murder.
It's a total hack job. The author didn't even attend the trial and I knew more from following it than what's in the book.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 04:05 PM
Hannibal Rising is out December 5 and although after moving all my books twice in the past two years I vowed I would not buy anymore books, I've got it on reserve at Borders.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 04:12 PM
I take it that's a Thomas Harris book.
I will probably get it out of the li-barry!
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 04:22 PM
I was hoping you would put together a book on the Seaman case, Lisa.
I read the review about Internal Combustion in the Free Press. They gave it a horrible review. It was such an interesting case I'm surprised that author did such a poor job.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 04:34 PM
Don't think that isn't whilring around my little tiny brain, Monica.
I sent Nancy a letter and got no reply but I think I will send her a holiday greeting.
It appears that the only person who has any contact with her anymore is her younger son.
What she did was bad, but I think she deserves some sympathy. I do believe she was a battered woman.
Am I crazy for thinking that?
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 04:38 PM
It is a Thomas Harris book and what's up with him writing it so quickly? He takes ten years between books!
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 04:44 PM
I think I've probably felt sorry for less deserving people. I can't say that it's a bad thing.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 04:44 PM
FWIW, I think she was battered too, Lisa.
I don't think it was bad enough for her to snap and murder him. And since we know that she went to Home Depot to buy the stuff she used in the murder, I have to believe it was premeditated big time.
But, she's not so creepy that I think you shouldn't send a card, lend and ear, and see if she wants to put her side of the story out there.
I know I'd buy a book you wrote, for sure.
Posted by: Monica | November 26, 2006 04:48 PM
Yada yada yada, zzzzz re 5:33.
Thanks for the vote of confidence, Monica. I've only got 3 going on that I don't have enough time to devote to, not to mention the neglected blog.
I wish more would come out on the Michelle Young case.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 05:37 PM
I wonder how much the value of the homes in Enchanted Oaks has declined since the murder of Michelle Young has taken place. That has got to have P###ed off the neighbors there. Gotta think that JY will not get much help from them.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 26, 2006 06:12 PM
I'm not sure Joe. As sick as some people in our society are, it may have increased the values.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 06:14 PM
If something invades my "Enchanted Oak," and its name's not Merlin, I'm outta there! LOL!
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 06:45 PM
I just want to say how much I enjoy coming here and being able to discuss topics (even when we disagree), share off-topic (like football) and enjoy each other's company.
Thanks again, Loretta. (And God bless Michelle and her family.)
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 07:01 PM
There is a 60 minutes segment on tonight that is making me very nervous. They have a drug that can eliminate the "memories" of traumatic incidents. I think that could be a good thing but some bad things that happen teach you life lessons. I'm not sure if I think it's a good idea to erase those lessons.
If you didn't get a chance to see it, maybe you can catch it on a rerun. It sounded great but it was kind of disturbing to me.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 07:34 PM
The memory is such a fragile thing.
I certainly don't want the government legislating whether or not I can have a drug, though.
I have plenty of traumatic memories, as most of us do. However, then I got hit by the car, I remember nothing between seeing the car coming and being wheeled past the waiting room at the hospital. They say I was conscious the whole time. One of the friends who witnessed it asked me about 10 years later if I had ever recalled it, and the answer was, "no." I have to think that's a good thing.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 07:53 PM
One of the people they helped had been in a severe car accident and they removed the trauma of the incident. She still remembered it but she was not longer traumatized by it. Another had been raped by a doctor at the age of 12 (she was middle aged) and she was able to sleep and no longer relive the trauma after the drug. It seemed like a miracle. It just made me nervous.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 07:56 PM
I've been in two serious car accidents and I don't remember either. The first was the one that gave me the (still ongoing) panic attacts on the freeway.
I don't remember the accident at all but I wonder if that would help me forget the trauma?
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 08:19 PM
You may want to check out the 60 minutes site and find out about it Lisa. It was scary for the implications, but impressive. In your case, I think it would definitely help.
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 08:21 PM
I'd do anything to not have the freak outs on the expressway and to be able to drive on it again.
Heck, I used to drive from Bethlehem PA to MI and back and think nothing of it. I used to enjoy it.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 09:10 PM
I didn't get my license until I was 45. I would have some sort of anxiety attack whenever I took the test, and I failed it 9 (nine) times.
When I was growing up, it was before there was drivers' ed in schools, and my dad wouldn't teach me, being a nervous driver himself. He also refused to allow my friend's father to teach me. I'm not entirely sure how he thought I was going to learn.
Anyway, several people tried to teach me, over the years, and I finally passed the test. Yay, me!
I had to swear that I would never attempt to parallel park in Williamson County for the rest of my natural life, but I passed. For years, I was terrified to get on the freeway. It wasn't until I had to drive the Miata 4,000 miles around the country behind the motorhome that I got over it.
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 09:17 PM
I taught driver's ed one summer before the panic attacks.
It was a huge slice of hell but it paid well.
Teen-agers should not be allowed to drive. Period.
I think the graduated license system they have now is a God send.
Posted by: Lisa | November 26, 2006 09:21 PM
For anyone interested, here's the 60 minutes report on the memory blocker drug:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/11/22/60minutes/main2205629.shtml
Posted by: Barbara | November 26, 2006 09:31 PM
I never did learn to drive a stick shift. My uncle tried teaching me, but he yelled a lot, and that didn't help much.
Barbara, that memory blocker drug sounds interesting. I'm sure there's potential to use it for no good, but I can see its benefits as well.
Posted by: Nadine | November 26, 2006 10:05 PM
Ok, this is totally ludicrous:
I think I'll send that woman a donation!
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 10:29 PM
Oops. The link didn't work:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15912456/
It's about a peace sign wreath that is costing a homeowner $25 a day in fines if she doesn't remove it from her OWN HOUSE. Good grief.
Posted by: loretta | November 26, 2006 10:30 PM
If it's a BP pill I wonder what that would do to someone with high or low BP?
Posted by: CountryGal | November 26, 2006 10:31 PM
That's worth raising a little Cain over! Reminds me of 1939 Berlin!
Outrageous!
"Peace on earth!" Whatever happened to that?
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 11:10 PM
Some of the rules those associations create are just ridiculous.
Anything that makes an idividual statement is considered "unacceptable".
Posted by: Nadine | November 26, 2006 11:30 PM
So I guess they wouldn't appreciate a six foot bunny decorating the front yard at Easter?
Posted by: Nadine | November 26, 2006 11:40 PM
I bet they don't even allow flamingos!
Posted by: vero | November 26, 2006 11:59 PM
Good morning. I hope you all enjoyed your weekend.
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 05:17 AM
Good Morning. Weekend good. Food good. Holiday good. Excercise, not so much.
Posted by: vero | November 27, 2006 09:13 AM
A big 'thank you' to the person who posted the Michael Peterson link.
Okay! It's Barbara. Thank you, Barbara!
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 10:01 AM
That's interesting, isn't it, Mgt?
Posted by: vero | November 27, 2006 10:06 AM
I've only read the main piece so far, Vero.
This case really intrigues me because I can't for the life of me imagine why he did it.
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 10:10 AM
There is the internet trawling and all that, I know. Unless, it was all down to his rage, of course.
He got found out and couldn't stand it.
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 10:14 AM
BTW, does anyone know whether Jason's fax/printout ever actually existed?
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 11:02 AM
Possible reasons why he did it:
1. He was a failure while his wife was very successful.
2. For the insurance, rumored to be $1,000,000.00
3. He was in the closet and his real love wanted her to go away.
4. He didn't want another child, as evidenced by his causing the death of a previous fetus.
5. He was about to lose his job, and wife was about to go on maternity leave.
6. Another woman.
7. He wanted a divorce but murder was quicker with no financial penalties and some rewards.
8. JY had a huge drug and gambling problem and was in deep financial debt.
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 27, 2006 11:59 AM
I agree, Joe.
Ciao, everyone
Posted by: Mgt | November 27, 2006 12:09 PM
I started browbeating the news writers on this case to get us some more news. Here's one response:
"Agreed-we're trying to get people to go on record and talk about him. They're afraid. Believe me we're working it hard."
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 27, 2006 12:47 PM
Good morning. I broke down and bought hubby a Mandolin slicer this weekend (with the shield/holder) and warned him about cutting himself. He rolled his eyes at me so I left the room. When he came in later he had a bandaid on his thumb. Yep.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 27, 2006 01:07 PM
Agreed-we're trying to get people to go on record and talk about him. They're afraid. Believe me we're working it hard."
What on earth do they have to be afraid of? Him?
I think he did it for the same reasons Scott Peterson did it. Marriage is hard and he gave it a try and didn't like it. He didn't want another child and didn't want to stay married. But, since he had lived such a good lie at being the *happily* married partner, he didn't want to be the bad guy in the divorce.
I still think you might be right about him being bis*xual, Joe. Only time will tell.
I just wish there would be a break in the case soon.
Posted by: Monica | November 27, 2006 01:13 PM
Good morning!
CG, I'm glad you found the slicer. Sorry it worked on Hubby as well.
Has anyone found out what type of "special equipment" they had to bring into the Young home? Joe?
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 27, 2006 01:30 PM
Phew. That font was so small. Now we can read it again.
Posted by: loretta | November 27, 2006 02:11 PM
CountryGal, I'm telling you, just get a ladyfinger machine!
Posted by: Nadine | November 27, 2006 02:18 PM
Interesting list of why Jason may have done it, Captain Joe. All valid reasons, if true.
Posted by: nadine | November 27, 2006 02:19 PM
I like this look!
"Officials call end to air, land search for Red Lake boys"
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/834863.html
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 27, 2006 02:23 PM
In my post above, I meant "all valid reasons for Jason to be suspect, if true, not valid reasons for killing Michelle".
Thanks for the link, Doe Eyes.
Posted by: Nadine | November 27, 2006 02:28 PM
Testing this comment box to see if it will save the personal info. La la la...
Posted by: loretta | November 27, 2006 02:29 PM
It's so hard to think of the search for those little boys being called off.
Posted by: Nadine | November 27, 2006 02:34 PM
Those little boys are either trapped somewhere they wandered off to play, or someone took them. I just don't see any other explanation.
Posted by: Nadine | November 27, 2006 02:39 PM
Where is those kids' dad?
Posted by: loretta | November 27, 2006 02:50 PM
Good question, Loretta. I've been looking through all the articles, and haven't seen any mention of the fathers.
I'm assuming they have different Dads, because of the last names.
Posted by: Nadine | November 27, 2006 02:54 PM
That's a really good question!
Posted by: Doe Eyes | November 27, 2006 03:08 PM
Love the new look Loretta!
Posted by: CountryGal | November 27, 2006 03:16 PM
I everyone seeing squashed up comments against the left margin on the screen?
I'm feeling clostraphobic.
Posted by: Monica | November 27, 2006 03:17 PM
No. It's your dang AOL.
It's nice and centered and roomy in here!
Try browsing with IE7 or IE6.
Posted by: loretta | November 27, 2006 03:28 PM
Nope Monica, not me. But it isn't saving my info.
Posted by: CountryGal | November 27, 2006 03:41 PM
Mine has a case of amnesia, too, CG.
Posted by: Monica | November 27, 2006 03:46 PM
I thought maybe the equipment brought in would have something to do with luminol but they should have had that already. I have no idea what other equipment they would need.
Posted by: Barbara | November 27, 2006 04:17 PM
My guess is something to process blood or fingerprints.
Posted by: Anonymous | November 27, 2006 04:51 PM
Anony = me
New format screwed me up
Posted by: Captain Joe | November 27, 2006 04:53 PM
Well, isn't this nice.
Posted by: vero | November 27, 2006 06:12 PM
Yes, it is Vero. I just got in from work and logged on to my home computer. The margins are all nice and roomy now.
Thank goodness that anonymous was only Captain Joe. Heh.
Posted by: Monica | November 27, 2006 06:42 PM
Is it ever going to remember our info?
Posted by: vero | November 27, 2006 07:17 PM
I just put my name in there every time. I don't bother with an email address or URL.
It only takes a half second more.
I haven't figured out why the code f



