Om - pa - loom -pa

Annnd when I returrned - Mary Jo and da caaarr were gawn. 'Ted Kennedy'

People actually listen to this drunk murderer!

The bloated mass of man that he used to be states; that if people vote for Bush we have more of a chance of getting nuked. (This was a rebuttal to Cheney's flub on more homeland terror if Kerry is elected).

Shaking head.

You know what kills me is my boss, W. He has just become a citizen this year - registered as an independent and really, really wants to vote.

He is totally a Nader man - but knows that it would be a wasted vote. So he was excited about the debates tonight.

Well - until I advise him that these questions are not surprises. They already have their answers. Its not toe to toe debating.

He's using words like poppycock and swill to show his displeasure.

I agree - but if you don't know where they stand by now - you never will. This 'function' is just so that they can make it p-e-r-f-e-c-t-l-y clear what they stand for.

They try to look handsome - (anyone see Kerrys tan?) Wear dark colored - broad shouldered suits and power ties.

Believe me, there are lots of stylist behind the man tonight (Kerry, I would fire yours)

What's with the tan? Oompaloompa?

Trump

Money, money,money.....MONEY!

I am a fan of The Apprentice.

I hate all the people that are trying to get the top job and somehow love watching them eat each other. Savages.

People watching this will notice a long time rumor...women don't work well together. At all - zilch and period.

It's a shame because women in a twosome team can rule the world. More than two - you just have hissing.

Like one of the judges said last night - I am embarrassed by being a businesswoman by just listening to them!

The men on the other hand do like each other and if they don't, they pretend nicely. They work together well and don't embarrass the male race at all.

These women are the reason that many employers don't put females in positions of power.

These women cry, lie and belittle. The only one who hasn't done that is on the boys team and in my opinion. I think she may be .... man-like.

I don't know who the winner is yet - its just begun. But - I don't even see a woman on there who has the potential of not acting like a PMS raged psycho.

Another man will win and - that's why they rule the world.

Istanbul in Hollywood

You know that song - Putting on the Ritz. The chorus...Istanbul is Constantinople.

Well - on our second week of HB trying new foods we made a visit to Turkey last night.

Gobble - Gobble.

Once again, he referred to our handy dandy rag mag and picked a place down on Hollywood Beach.

Mostly vegan delights (though there was plenty of meat selections on the menu) - and once again my fave food - eggplant. We had stuffed grape leaves, a Turkish salad that was made from tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and feta. Stuffed cigars with mint and feta and grilled eggplant served with a yogurt sauce. The main course that we shared was a variety of lamb. Chunked, sliced and grilled. The place wasn't much to look at on the inside (very diner like) but the view was great. Who can beat the ocean!

We ordered a bottle of Turkish wine - that still had pieces of grapes settled on the bottom.

For dessert we had some Turkish coffee (once again there was a very thick sludgey settlement from the coffee - what's with that?) It put espresso to shame. It was very tasty - you just couldn't drink till the last drop or you would be sucking on grounds. The owner then gave us two little bites of Baklava so that we could enjoy the flavors together.

I have to give HB credit. Usually - he sticks with the basics and he is really trying to expand his dining horizons.

So far on our second trip of food finds - he's done really well picking new places to venture.

I usually sit there and try to figure out the ingredients so that maybe I can try to make it one night at home. I think I can do the Turkish Salad and I think it would go good with any meat myself!

I am so excited - can't wait to see what country we will visit next week.

Way to go HB!

Perfect Attendance

There is something to be said about perfect attendance.

Not just the little certificate that you get at the end of the year.

It's more like the boss, teacher looks at you and knows they can count on you.

I have come into work - sick, vomiting, hungover, pooping my brains out. But - I show.

I may leave shortly thereafter to prove my illness and my great work ethic. But - I show!

Many people don't realize these little things make a difference.

I will not call in sick on a Monday or a Friday. It looks bad .

If you do it - I don't believe your sick. No matter how much you moan and groan on the phone.

If your sick more than once month - you need to see a doctor and they need to do an anal probe on you - because you are full of crap!

Do I sound angry? Hee Hee (evil grin)

Hurricane Hangover

Now that all the storms have passed - I feel a little like I do after the holidays pass. I think I will name it hurricane hangover.

I don't think it has anything to do with the drinking that occurs when your sitting around the house, with no where to go. I don't think it has to do with the sugar rush you may be coming off of since the only handy dandy foods you have are junk. I don't think it has to do with the lack of sleep either. I remember taking a nap or two while it rained outside.

I think it may have to do with stress. I think I am coming off the stress.

HB is a freak when it comes to the storms. I spend most of my time following him around making sure he doesnt bleed from the ears too much. (I told him to put up a board or two if it made him feel better - he did, it didnt)

I am constantly doing dishes and laundry while awaiting the storm. Cooking hot meals three times a day. Hoping that I will be able to take a hot shower before the electric goes out or before I run out of food. (It never does).

I also am fighting a battle with a teen who doesnt understand why nothing is open and she is bored and wants to be entertained....now!

So after constant weeks of this waiting. Anticipating. It's over. (For now)

I am tired and cranky. I feel on the verge of tears.

Is that all there is?

So like the holidays. We wait, we plan, we do. But when its all over with - I think a vacation is in order.

Never mind - I heard those stress people out too!

You don't know...

Once when J was around 5 or 6 she came into the old house with a very green grapefruit. She stated it was a mango and she was going to eat it. My ex and I said - no J its a grapefruit. J proceeded to stand her ground, standing toe to toe with her father.

"Its a Mango"
"Its a Grapefruit"
"Its a Mango"
"Its a Grapefruit"

Both getting redder and louder with each exclamation.

J followed the last bellow of 'It's a Mango' with the phrase..."You don't know!!!"

That has been her mantra recently - as we (the adults) are the stupid ones.

"Jacqui - get up for school" - Me

"There is none - I checked the website last nite" - J

"There is school - They announced on the news"- Me

"No there is not!!! You don't know!!!" - J

My exit was annouced with...If you don't want to go to school - you should just say so. But, because your being such a pain about it - I am not giving you and excused absence and you will have to deal with the consequences.

If you know Jacqui - you know that moving her is not an option.

Looking back - my Mom was the one who got us up. If you didnt get up then Dad was sent in.

I wish I could call my Dad in for backup on this one. I would bet ya - she would move like her bed was on fire.

That I do know!

On a sad note.

My ex mother in law is supposed to getting a heart valve replacement this morning. She has an infectious blood disease that has left vegetation on her valves. They refer to it as vegetation because on the ultrasound it resembles small leaves. These leaves are breaking off and have caused her to go blind in one eye and to lose all feeling in one arm. The doctors would like to get to her soon as they do not want this vegetation to cause a stroke if it goes into her brain. She has lost 80 lbs and has been in the hospital for two months. She has a 30% chance of surviving this operation.

I have not spoken to her in over 6 years. J knows she's very sick and may die. But- she is feeling very indifferent as she has never tried to keep in contact with us after the divorce.

Sadly, J would love to part of her 'other' family. But they disappoint more than deliver.

I am cautious on what to say - as a 13 year old is still a selfish creature. I don't know if the impact of this news has any impact at all. So - I say..."hope she pulls thru".

I don't wish ill will on many. Only those that cause great harm to others. Then I only seek revenge and death. But in this instance - I only feel sadness. Sadness, not because I care for her and she made a difference in my life (or any one else for that matter). But sadness because I feel nothing. I am sure I should feel something - this is very sad. When her father passed about 12 years ago - I was sad. He was a nice man. He had a good laugh and he was gracious. I still speak of him as a good man to my daughter.

I am a blank page with nothing to say except "hope she pulls thru".

I have spoken about my demise before and how my hopes are a party with everyone remembering me with a smile.

I am usually never short on words. I have an opinion. Just ask me....No wait...I will tell you.

Hope she pulls thru.

It doesnt run in the family.

Last night on the way home from picking up my little J. She decides to sing a hymn that they are going to be singing today to all the Grandparents in celebration of Grandparents Day.

I am glad that most Grandparents are old and slightly losing their hearing - because the sweet melody and harmonies that most of her family can carry - has somehow missed her.

I love my J. She has great brain power - she will be something great. I can't feel it. Even if she decides that debate and law (shes very good at fighting that whole equality angle) is her calling. The booming voice of hers will make any jury listen.

God bless Grandparents.

They find the good in everything (when they turn their hearing aids off).

Mean Jeanne

The Dancing Machine.

Round and round without a care - where she lands......

Ok fellow Floridians. Mean Jeanne the Dancing Machine is predicted to make landfall this Sunday at 2.

She's a dancing queen. Turning in circles - sitting and spinning in the ocean.

Actually - we forgot that she was out there. We were looking at Karl and Lisa (see Mom another storm named after a relative - thats two in a row...I don't think we will ever see Shaniqua!!!)

So brace yourself - I still have my beefaroni from last go around!

Damn - and I just got my cable back!

Banks

Banks make me nervous. I haven't been in one for years. That's what ATM's are for. I also utilize the phone system and internet. Today - I had to walk in a bank. TWICE!

no way you say....

YES WAY!!!

Banks are not as stuffy as I remember them. They used to be very formal. You had a line that inched toward tellers (all dressed nicely) behind huge panes of glass and paneling. The person that sat at the desk in the corner was dressed in a three piece suit and always seemed to peer at you over their glasses.

Now - they wear uniforms. Matching shirts and slacks that look like I have entered Casual Friday at a regular business. The guy behind the desk. No glasses and get this..SMILING!


no way you say....

YES WAY!!!

One of my major concerns was that a bank robber would come in an jump the counter and empty my vault-o-money before my very eyes. But - they can no longer do that. There are no counters. They are in pods. Little podiums - with little room to write, much less jump on top of.

Get this - they no longer have bank drawers. The money comes out of this mini ATM machine attached to the pod. Change is given from a recepticle that reminds me of an old cash register.

no way you say.....

YES WAY!!!

I still prefer my method of banking now. I don't miss the actually having to deal with eeekkk...tellers.

But it's kinder and friendlier than I remember.

no way you say....

YES WAY!!!

Speaking of birds...

I don't know if it's because my neighbor just cut down a huge Bogenvilla (I know its spelled wrong) and I can actually see past my fenceline now. But the birds that are out are amazing. I don't know the names of them - but they are lovely. I want them all to think my patio is a bird sanctuary and have them all come hang out with me on the porch so I can get a closer look.

Red and Blue and Yellow and Green.

Lovely.

Indian food and a bottle of wine

Last nite HB and I went in search for some Indian Food. They just opened a place nearby our home - but I tried to introduce Jacqui to Indian food there and it was terrible. Say no to Bollywood. So we came across a place listed in the New Times rag. They mentioned it would be hard to find - they werent kidding. Right off Ocean Ave and Oakland Park. Across from the beach - tucked away at the end of an empty strip mall with no parking to be had. We finally found it.

My nite was supposed to take place at the Wine and Design walk that my neighborhood throws once a month. For $12 you buy a glass and then they give you a map of different stores that you need to go visit to continue filling up your glass. In the meantime, they are hoping you will buy something at the stores. Or, maybe notice a store along the way that has just opened. Well, we havent been in a few months because the last time we went the crowd was huge. They were only giving sips of wine because they were running out (total jip). The huge groups of people made it hard to look at the shops wares. When you have a lot of folks in a small space with merchandise included. It makes for a bad night. So we have pretty much avoided it. But, I wanted to give in another try.

No go - HB suggested dinner. He has an interview coming up soon and he was excited about the potential of his new position. So - I sighed and asked where. I really wanted to drink and browse. It was a pretty nite out. I wanted to walk the streets like the barfly I am.

Now lets start with the fact that HB is particular about food. Not that he doesnt love it - he just doesnt like anything that has spice. He likes salt. But - spice is a different story. I guess when you have to take different meds for your stomach every night - I would be picky too.

But - he said Indian. I repeated him (just to make sure I heard him right). Yep - he said Indian.

Well - I am all in for that. I love Indian food. Not the spicy burn your mouth and stomach on the way down. I am talking flavorful. The combination of flavors in every bite you take. The different chutneys provided which cool your mouth and enchance the flavor of your meal. Mmmmm - so good!

HB was a trooper. I ordered very mild things (I am not crazy - I want him to go back) from Chicken Tandoori to Lamb Kebab. I fed him Nan bread stuffed with chicken and introduced him to mint chutney to take away the sting in his mouth. He also liked my fave dish of Eggplant Bharta. We had a bottle of wine - to take care of the boozehound in me. It was a lovely night and he liked it. So - I think I have a chance to maybe talk him into it again (crossing my fingers)

Now - if I can just get him to eat Thai Food.

Its the first day...

of Fall! I told you I felt a slight chill in the air. Now - with the rain...its freezing! I am such a Floridian. Can't stand it under 78 unless I have a blanket nearby.

Today was picture day in the Casa Del Jacquimarie. So needless to say - we were very late. Gotta get that hair just right- don't we???

Well, lets cross our fingers that it comes out as pretty as the last one did.

So - last post I spoke of somethings I need to improve in the house. For those of you that have been there and have noticed things that can be done to help me along in my real extate venture - I ask you to please speak up! I am serious. I need every eye to help me.

Last night was reality tv nite. I was very bummed about the outcome of the BB5 finale. I really didnt want either one of the bozos on the block to win. But - one did. Wonder if he will still stay with Diane? Also - did anyone notice the amount of face makeup on Jase? His overblushed cheeks? Like a corpse done bad!

I also - flipped between that and Trading Spouses. This family doesnt excite me too much.

So as far as TV nite goes. Snoorreessville.

I wish I was creative enough to think of a reality tv show. Put a few cameras around our house. Watch alot of naked girls running around and watching ourselves on TVs. Woo Hoo - people would love it.

Now - speaking of naked girls. How come when a girl is naked running thru the house she covers her boobs? Everything else - exposed for the entire house to see. But - we need to cover the niblets? I don't get it.

Spend, spend, spend

A few years back in my before life I was a credit nightmare. I had debt coming out of my ears. I worked very hard to get out of that financial crunch and I now consider myself fluid. I only buy things with cash. It works for me. Credit cards are evil (that's my mantra).

But - as everyone knows. You need credit to get along in the world today. I hardly carry cash. I have a bank card. It's just like cash and I have no problem using it for a 2.95 purchase. There is no extra fee for using it and it saves me from having to make sure I have money in my pocket.

So due to my hard work - I am now credit friendly. My score is high and the credit card companies keep killing trees to get my business. Their mailings land in the trash adding to the landfill.

I don't need your stinking money.

But - now I have a problem. I need some cash. I own a home that has doubled in value over the past few years. I want to invest in my property and do somethings to it as I have decided to make it my home for the next few years.

Mr. Bank comes over last night and tells me what he can do for me. This is what we will give you and this is what you will pay every month.

I am freaking out!!! It's not the bottom line as mortgages are way low and the way they play with the numbers - makes it feel like it stealing.

But its the fact that the little voice inside me is screaming....Owe. Owe. Owe. Owe.

I do not like to owe anyone. Maybe it was because of my freedom for the past few years of not having to worry about the credit collector on the other side of the ringing phone. The mountain of bills I received every month that were payed by order of importance and not when they were due.

I know what Mr. Bank is offering is fair. I know that what he is giving me will afford me to get a few things done that will not only up the value of the home - but make it nicer for me to be there.

But I can't help feeling that with the handshake - the noose around my neck is just a little tighter.

And just like the Flintstones cartoon - when Fred had a gambling problem and someone asked him if he would like to bet. His eyes turned to dollar signs and he spun in circles screaming...Bet,bet,bet,bet!!!

I am now pulling at that noose - crying... Owe? Owe? Owe? Owe?

Brrrr...

I can feel a chill in the air. Yes- I know that we are far from winter. But its 75 degrees here and a little rainy. I had to wear a jacket.

Another tell tale sign that a chill will be arriving soon. The malls. Ms. J (who never, ever, ever wears shorts) has decided she wants a pair of Sophies. Sophies are cheerleader shorts. Apparently, they sound like something I wore for gym in Jr. High. Though they arent made of think poly they are more cotton. The have a thick elastic waistband that can be rolled down so that it doesnt make marks on your tummy. Well - I am THRILLED that she wants to venture outdoors in a pair of shorts. Her typical dress is a pair of jeans and tee shirt. I am talking , everywhere. Even the beach. He legs havent seen sunlight in forever!!! So - I am on a mission. I walk the entire length of the mall. There are no shorts to be had. Macys just packed up all their summer stuff. Bloomies never had shorts. Penneys stuff was all on the clearance rack, picked over nicely. But, if I was in the market for a jacket, a trench or a sweater. No problem. If I wanted slacks, jeans or sweatsuits. No problem.

So - I will venture into a store I never go into...The Sports Authority. I am not athletic. The walls of gear are all foreign to me. I know I sound stupid everytime I walk into that place. But - for my little J. I will proudly be an idiot.

We might be able to find some shorts!!!

My Dad is a cowboy...

Nahhhh, he's just crazy!

He is what James Dean would have been all grown up. He's a mixture of Elvis and Cool Hand Luke with a little pinch of Sinatra. You see my father and you don't see a older man. You see the kid that we see in the pictures. With the tight white tee shirt with the pack of Winston rolled in the sleeve. You see him and you know he likes fast rides and good times. He will scare you silly, all with a smile on his face and his voice just above a whisper.

My father is the type that you gotta keep an eye on. He will surprise you at every turn. You will never know whats coming from this 'Cool Dude'. Cool Dude a name that he chose to be called. It brings a smile to everyones face when a little and big kids call him that. Because, it's true.

He was a great provider and a good father. We didn't need a guard dog like a pit bull, we had my Dad. When a great song came on - you either had a dance partner of someone that would join you to perform in front of the family. If you were in the car with him and a song came on that he loved, we would circle. Circle the block. Round and round while dancing and harmonizing in our seats. If American Pie came on and you had to pee - cross your legs.

So why the thoughts of my Dad? Well, he is in the middle of a storm. I am watching it on TV and all I see is this huge circular storm pounding on the place he now calls home. It's hard to watch. He is with my Mom and I know she's safe. Why? You call and you get a man with a little giggle in his voice. He has figured the storm out.

Nothing can beat him. He has a fireplace and a bathroom. It's like camping!

And if the storm thought it might get the upper hand - it has another thing coming.

I wouldn't mess with my Dad.

Beverage

Ahhhh - Starbucks. It's a concept that has produced a gajillion dollars worth of revenue for Mr. Starbucks.

I remember fondly my first cup of Starbucks. It was in 1992. I was in Seattle and my BF (best friend) brought me in for a steaming cup. When I returned I inquired about franchises. The lady that answered the phone said that they don't franchise. So, I waited patiently until they came to Florida. Slowly, first in Barnes and Noble bookstores. Then the mall. Then in every 10 block radius my little car could take me.

It is my beverage of choice if available. I spend a lot of money there - but I am happy with my product. Now - sometimes it depends on the Barista (the coffee maker person behind the counter) just how good it is. But, its never, ever bad.

So - if I had to make a list of things I like to drink it would be:

Diet Coke

Starbucks - Triple Grande Almond Latte (am) / Grande Ice Coffee, 2 splenda, not shaken (pm)

Then - I would have to move to lovely girlie concoctions made up of a few alcoholic choices.

Then of course - water. (Not my first choice mind you but nothing quenches your thirst better) .

I am sure you could care less about my drink choices but as I have just returned with the nectar from my recent break. I couldn't help myself.

I love, love, love Starbucks.

BB5 Update

I have it on good authority that the final HOH contest between the 3 contestants is over. Cowboy fell off helping Diane with her ponytail. Diane then pretended to fall off after her and Drew kissed and made a pact to go to the end.

Hey Cowboy...aren't you glad your a man of your word?

Say it aint so...

Nakomis - my favorite player on the BB5 house has left the building. Due to her pinkie swears and totally honesty policy she was played.

So now - I have three people in the house that make me sick. I don't like Diane and Drew. Cowboy was a whiney snakey suckup most of the time. Why don't the good guys ever win?

I guess the lesser of all the evils is Cowboy. He didnt win a thing (except POV last night). He never was head of household. The only thing he ever won in the house was a phone call from his family (that was a tear jerker). As much as everyone has made fun of him and he seems like a stupid redneck...he is in the final three.

I think he made a grave error though picking Diane. I think when it gets to the final two - Diane will pick Drew (If I were her) then it would be choosing from the lesser of two evils when the jury decides. I wouldn't go to the end with Cowboy - they would pick him just despite it all.

Well - we will see what happens as this is the final week for BB5. Then we will have...Survivor!!!

Trading Spouses wasnt too exciting. I like it when you have a parent that truly a horror. Neither were. The husbands were the worse of it all.

Next week looks like it will be a good one - so stay tuned!

Guess What

My Gramma has been named a Tropical Storm.

Neat, huh?

It would be nice if I was named after a storm.

My mom was named a Hurricane.

If only my parents hadn't been smokin the big rock when they named me.

I am named like a Nubian Queen.

Mom: "Honey, Jennifer sounds pretty"

Dad: "No, we need something more ethnic, to go with our last name. Trust me, we will get a good giggle from it when she goes to school"

Mom: "Well, lets put all the pretty names we can think of and pick from a hat and then mix the names together"

Dad: (While sipping the last of his 20 something glass of scotch) "Excellent"

TV nite and sleeping with the enemy

Ok -

I have to get out of my funk and stop reading about beheadings, hostages and hurricanes.

That stuff will bring you down. No wonder on the season finale of my most fave HBO show 'Six Feet Under' the hubby decided that he was going to live in the bomb shelter for the rest of his time on earth. Life will get to you.

TV lineup today is Trading Spouses part 2. BB5 at 9 and Dog the Bounty Hunter at 10.

Today we will see how the Mom that is living with the ciggie commie will do. If Nakomis gets POV (please everyone, cross your fingers) and if Dog catches the bad guy. If these shows don't take your mind off the world for a few hours, nothing will.

On the homefront - you know we all have a little ragamuffin living with us for a few days. She is very tiny and she likes to sleep with you. As all moms know - you have a little extra sensory feeling that there is someone sleeping with you. This occurs when your new baby is hungry and with your lack of sleep you can actually go thru the motions with your eyes closed. Awaking to a bundle of joy at your side - belly full. It's a very rare occurance that a child is smothered in bed with the mother, unless the mother is not a mother at all .

So - I know she's there at all times. I know she is tiny and I know my thigh is large enough to squash her but somehow...I manage.

Other bed partners of our guest are having serious problems dealing. They awake in the middle of the night. Patting the bed. Looking for her and calling her when she's safely nestled on the pillow above your head. The panic runs thru them. It makes for a terrible sleep. (Hey, maybe thats what our problem is we just need a solid nights sleep). So - the little girl may be banned from the bed.

But - I guess it's for a good cause.

Horrible

I guess it's times when the world is in upheavel and people just decide to pray a little louder.

Some might question their faith when all they see on TV is death and destruction.

I read an article about the hostage takers in Russia. It was a very sad article.

A mother and her two children are taken hostage in the school. They let her leave, but with only one child. If she didn't leave they all would have been killed. How do you choose? Or do you? She choose to leave her older daughter behind and take her small son.

It reminds me of the story of the two mothers that are fighting over one baby. The King says well cut the baby in half. One of the mothers agrees. The other mother told the King to just give the other woman the baby - so that death would not occur. The King looked up at the mother who wanted the child split in half and knew she couldnt have been the mother. No true mother would have agreed.

But - someone was watching over this family.

She survived.

Mornings suck

I have never ben one for mornings. Ask my Mom - if you stood too close you might get a foot in the tummy. But - becoming a Mom many years ago has made me "tolerate" them.

J is usually a good morning person. She sets her alarm. She has a plan. Don't get in her way or try to deviate from it though. You will get a mouthful.

Well, these storms have really screwed with our schedules. We have finally taken down the plywood off the windows so that we can tell the difference between night and day. Schools are open for now. Traffic is a little worse. I don't know if its because of the weather or everyone is just running behind.

But - these are the days where I wish I owned my own business and didn't have to report in at a specific time.

I think Americans work too hard. I am one of them. We never take vacation. We are in early and we leave when we cannot take it (work) anymore.

I am in contact with Europeans. They get many, many days of vacation. They use them.
I am in contact with South Americans. Long lunches are the rule, not the exception.

Why are we so afraid to take time off? Are we concerned that the company will fall to the wayside without us? Are we scared that they will see that they don't really need us and we will be replaced?

I don't know the answer and I really wish I knew.

Prison Pete

Do you ever go to the Dashboard and take a look at the Blogs of Interest? Some are very hard to read - others are captivating.

Prison Pete. I don't know why this has caught my attention. I also liked Aziz's blog (mainly because he was in India and spoke of his time there and the constant poops he endured). Prison Pete speaks of poop time too. Maybe, its the poop talk that warms the cockles of my heart.

Nah, it's probably because I am waiting for him to tell people what he did.

The whole premise of his blog is the daily things that happen in Federal Prison. Its actually kinds of the same stuff. Heck, he's in prison, not a whole lot goes on. But - the thing I am finding most fascinating is that people write him words of support (he's is supposed to be released in November if he doesn't have to do another 10 year term in NYC) and they don't even know why he is there!!!

His editor and friend is the one who posts the blog for him as inmates do not have access to a computer and email. He has said that Prison Pete deserves to be in prison for what he did. He said that what he did was creepy (he won't say what it is - just creepy). But over 26 thousand people have visited his blog and hope he gets out soon because they enjoy his writings. They hope he can get on TV - they hope he writes a book. Hell, why don't you just invite him over for dinner?!?

What in the hell is the matter with these people!?! Doesn't the word creepy make you hope he doesn't get out of prison? Ted Bundy was very articulate and Manson can talk teenage girls into killing people. If Ted was still alive - I wouldn't hope for his release. Manson can't get out - ever...Why...???

Because he's...CREEPY!!!!!

I have a new love

I am watching a doggy while her Daddy visits lands far, far away. She is a little Yorkie. I think I am in love. She is quite the princess. She prefers pillows instead of the cold floor. Her little stump of a tail wags quickly when you enter a room. She is quite the little guard dog as little noises from outside make her stand and growl to scare any intruders away.

She actually has won the heart of HB who said she was smaller than our Pig and looked like a rat. I think she prefers male company as she makes herself at home on his lap when available.

She is quite bright and knows the names of her toys. She loves to play tug of war and likes to be chased around the house. She tried to act tough but the teeth she shows is always accompanied by her squirming behind.

We like Ginger - I don't think we will be giving her back.

Farewell Dear Karen.

We gather here today to bid a fond farewell to Karen (The Loon).

She has been voted off - cast out. Shunned by her fellow-housemates.

Drew is now the HOH. Only 4 housemates left.

If Ivan news gets in the way of my show next week.....

Oh God

You know - I knew it would be too good to be true. As many of you know J now goes to a new school. Well, she not feeling well and I went to get her early.

We are discussing the storm and I told her to make sure she doesn't eat our rations when she gets home and she said she knows they discussed it in school.

"Really?" I say. "Tell me what they think."

"Well, he says that it's Gods wrath because the government no longer allows prayer in school."

Ummmm...Ok

"He also said that American Express is the Devil because they are putting chips in children in Switzerland."

Ummmm....Ok

"He also said that when this Pope dies that the one that replaces him will be the Anti-Christ and he will be marked with the symbol of the Devil 666. But no one will know until it's too late"

I knew that it was a Christian school. I know that its Baptist. But, I also know that I was assured that many people of different religions attend and they do teach and preach Christianity but to this extent?!?

Ummmmm...Ok

"Well, how do you feel about what they said?"

"Well, a Catholic kid in class was upset."

I am sure he was. Thankfully, J has attended different functions and knows about many different religions. She knows that no one is right. She knows that many people die because of religion.

I don't even think I can go to the school and complain. I signed her up for this.

"So, what class was this in?" I say.

J replies "Math, but it was very interesting to hear his views."

Ummmmm....Ok

Oh geez!

Last night we entertained HB's family. They are from Jupiter Inlet. They have no electric and no water. The air is so humid at the house the cork board on the boys walls has buckled. The smell of mold in the air. The little boys are very grateful and they think that we saved their life. We didnt save them. But - we have given them an opportunity to take showers, cook a hot meal and wash their clothes. We had them over so that they could take their mind off the storm for a while. So burgers and dogs and a beer or two. By the end of the night they were laughing and I hope they slept well.

So - I awake this morning and put on the weather channel. They don't mention too much and on the way into work, the news radio station talks briefly about it. What am I talking about? Ivan.
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
Please find the 5 am advisory from the NHC. Notice how the 'cone of death' has shifted. Yesterday, it was supposed to go into the Gulf.

Someone is messing with me.

Back to reality

Though my cable TV is down - my Satellite TV is working. It just so happens that they are offering a free month of local channels. This is a good thing, because when I had TV, the news was on every single station. I missed my regular programs. I am so behind that I just got on the web to catch up on who said what.

Last night I watched the first of the two shows they call "Trading Spouses". Nice lady from Dallas, TX goes and lives with a family in Long Island. She seems very sweet, she reminds me of my Aunt Cookie. The family she is visiting is the Messina family which she cleverly renames Mess-in-a-family. The father of this family is a ciggie commie. So I hate him already. The oldest son is teetering on fairydom. But - he the oldest son is actually a likeable kid. He seems to need a hug.

The other Mom goes to the home in Texas. The family is nice. The husband of the family is 35 going on 10. She's not having a good time because he put a bug in her soup. Not funny - leaning on the mean side. But hey, he didn't let her eat it!!!

J and I were talking about living in the Ciggie Commies house. He was looking for a maid. That's what his wife does. He not bashful about telling the lady what her wants her to do.

I guess its 1 week - $50,000 prize. Maybe you suck it up?

I want to see what comes of this next week.

Then came BB5. Like I said - my viewing TV was held hostage by the hurricane and boy did I miss a lot.

A (the second twin is gone). I didn't see it, but apparently upon her departure she channeled Natalie and spoke for both of them at the same time. Creepy.

Then Marvin - poof! A lot happened while I was away.

So - this week Nakomis puts up Drew and Cowboy. Diane comes up with a plot to overthrow Nakomis plan and wins the POV and puts Karen in his place. The plan is that now they will vote off Karen in a few days. They can do it. They have the numbers.

Now the scary part for my dear Nakomis. She will not be able to play for HOH again. She will be next on the block unless they come up with some type of sudden death competition. She's will do better than Cowboy - he's a little slow.

We will have to stay tuned. I like Nakomis. I would like for her to win. I have liked the way she has played. She makes great decisions and her honesty is amazing.

But - I think if the final jury makes their decision based on calculating moves. Diane.

We will see folks.

Ok - as a final note. If your into Bounty Hunters. A&E has a new show that follows around Dog the Bounty Hunter. He's amazing.

You can run but you can't hide from the long arm of the Dog!

Whew - Its over.

The storm has passed. Thank God. What a horrible thing it was. HB family got hit the hardest. He has family in Ft. Pierce that have lost their home. His sister is on her way down with her kids now as she wont have electric or water for some time.

Frances was a very scary storm. I asked her to go a different way - She came anyway.

I faired well. Lost cable and telephones are acting wierd.

Ivan is looming for this weekend coming. I don't think many people can handle a third.

It was very trying in my home. It was the cause of some tears and some fights.

Drama rules in the Casa de la Jacquimarie'.

Ok - now your pissing me off.

Dear Frances,

I know that you are a hurricane. It seems you are having your period as your PMS seems to be raging. But as I tell my daughter when she's in her flowers - you need to hurry up and get over it because your pissing me off.

Frances, I know that there is a nice Tropical Storm named Gaston that is really wanting to make your acquaintance somewhere in the North Atlantic. Maybe you can find it in your heart to finally make a decision and move that way? I am just sayin'.

Florida has nothing of interest for you. We have mosquitos and alligators. We have little creatures called lizards and spiders. Girls don't like these things. These things are yukky. Can't you think of another place you would like to visit? I am just sayin'.

Plus, we just had Charley come thru here and he was a bit of a slob. We are still pickin up after him.

You are truly a bad houseguest Frances. First of all, you can even decide when you are coming. Will you be coming Friday? Saturday? I am just sayin'.

Then, like Charley you will make mess and pee on everything. I'm just sayin'.

So make like a tree and leave. Vamoose, scram and take a hike.

Thank you for your time. I know you will make the right decision. Sisters gotta stick together.

I'm just sayin'

Arnie

Arnold spoke last night at the RNC. I understand that he is a professionally trained actor but like Reagan, the man can give a speech. Arnold said something last night that made me remember a conversation I had with my Dad about registering as a Republican or a Democrat.

I was 18 and in high school. My history classes were taught by a slew of football and basketball coaches and they were not afraid of playing a movie to teach us. That along with the bringing (excuse me, donating) VCR tapes in and buying cartons of doughnuts for extra credit - I made it thru the class. So needless to say, history and current events to me...snoozer! I did have to pick a party for my voters registration card and I had no clue.

So we, (my father and I) had a lovely conversation and it went EXACTLY like this...

"Hey Dad!"

"Yes, my little princess that I love more than my odd shaped headed son."

"What's the difference between a Republican and a Democrat?"

"Well, my pretty daughter that is the most fairest of them all.... A Republican likes steak and a Democrat likes hotdogs"

"Oh Father, you know that hotdogs give me a bellyache. Remember that time I threw up?"

"Yes, yes I do. I felt so badly for you. I remember picking up the vomit with my bare hands just so that it wouldn't spoil you."

Or something like that.

So - I picked Republican. But - pretty much voted Democrat because they stood for the issues that I felt were important for me at the time.

My dear Father was always pained at election time. We would discuss the issues and a little vein in his forehead would bulge and his smoking would increase. But he understood that I had a vote. Though he didn't always agree - he respected my decision.

"Well, my daughter that is more brilliant than the world (and your odd shaped head brother) I know you will make the right decisions. But, just is case you may have any questions, I have made notes in this voting pamphlet. I have highlighted my, I mean the right, I mean some choices just to make it easier for you and your dainty fingers."

"Aw shucks Daddy. Your the best!" Kisses and hugs would follow and he would slip me a few bills for my troubles.

Or something like that.

So back to Arnold. He was doing the whole..."You know your a redneck..." mantra and I listened.
You know your a Republican when....
You know your a Republican when...

"If you believe we must be fierce and relentless and terminate terrorism, then you are a Republican."

Well Daddy was right and I guess it finally answers my question.