Open Thread - 03/29
WichitaTell us what you think!
Don't forget:
Instant Spot - WV Forum - Meet and Greet:
Click Here!! http://tinyurl.com/2npghh
Predestined said:
Good wet morning, all!
How are all my ducky friends? Did everyone survive the night of storms?
Has anyone notified God about an ark?
How are all my ducky friends? Did everyone survive the night of storms?
Has anyone notified God about an ark?
lindainks55 said:
I think my cat is still huddled under the bed where he thinks it's safe from the loud scary monsters (read thunder). Was a loud storm! In a perfect world we would be able to spread out this wetness and see some of it next July and August. Ah, but then I would need to look for soemthing to complain about.
Julie said:
Anybody heard from LH? Last night it was looking REALLY nasty by her.
My 4 year old slept thru the hail but came a running when an especially close clap of thunder hit. Between the hubby, the kid and the dog and 2 cats I got squished.
My 4 year old slept thru the hail but came a running when an especially close clap of thunder hit. Between the hubby, the kid and the dog and 2 cats I got squished.
Predestined said:
I must have slept through the worst of it. That could be because of the Nyquil. I love thunderstorms, but not the hail and tornadoes.
Julie said:
I just heard from LH. She's fine. Little bit of wind damage and lots of rain was her look from the window report.
longhorn said:
Thanks for wondering about me. Yep, it got damn nasty here last night. I havent made it out yet for an up close assessment, but a barn hayloft door blew off, I have "trash" all over the farm yard, and tons of limbs blew down, probably still weakened from the big ice storm. Oh yea, and I see the cats are sitting inside the garage where the walk in door blew open. heheheheh. They look a little dazed and soggy.
I had lots of needed rain too. I havent been to the rain gauge yet, but the "puddle in the yard" gauge says well over an inch. :)
And I too slept through it. I guess if I ever get nabbed by a tornado in the night, I'll never know what hit me :)
Nice to know you all care enough to ask!
I had lots of needed rain too. I havent been to the rain gauge yet, but the "puddle in the yard" gauge says well over an inch. :)
And I too slept through it. I guess if I ever get nabbed by a tornado in the night, I'll never know what hit me :)
Nice to know you all care enough to ask!
Predestined said:
Glad to know you're okay and the damage wasn't much worse, LH! Doors can be fixed. ;)
CF said:
Glad to hear Longhorn didn't get washed or blowed away. Crazy-ass Kansas spring weather, ah tell you what.
Oh, and something else: the Senate has passed an Iraq spending bill, 47-51, that stipulates most U.S. troops out of Iraq by March 2008.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/29/washington/29cnd...
The House and Senate have Bush cornered: his veto stops funding for the military.
Congratulations to Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Reid: they've fundamentally changed the terms of the debate.
Oh, and something else: the Senate has passed an Iraq spending bill, 47-51, that stipulates most U.S. troops out of Iraq by March 2008.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/29/washington/29cnd...
The House and Senate have Bush cornered: his veto stops funding for the military.
Congratulations to Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Reid: they've fundamentally changed the terms of the debate.
Predestined said:
I can aleady hear the jeers of "UnAmerican" now. :(
I hope this sends a message, and that our pretzeldent takes a good luck at what Congress is telling him, not to mention the voters of this country. Somehow, I doubt that will happen.
I hope this sends a message, and that our pretzeldent takes a good luck at what Congress is telling him, not to mention the voters of this country. Somehow, I doubt that will happen.
longhorn said:
CF! ((((((((((((((((hugs))))))))))))))))))
In case you couldnt tell, we missed you!
Now if Tracy can just get sprung from his job, the whole gang will be here!!! But I dont think Tracy is gonna have much blogging time for the forseeable future.
In case you couldnt tell, we missed you!
Now if Tracy can just get sprung from his job, the whole gang will be here!!! But I dont think Tracy is gonna have much blogging time for the forseeable future.
lindainks55 said:
He don't need no stewpid voters to tell hime what to do. He isn't running for reelection and even if he was Rove will "fix" it up so it's still no worry.
If Congress gets him stopped he can always go down in history saying he could have won if only he had been allowed to win. He was on the path to victory before those libs snatched it out of his hands.
If Congress gets him stopped he can always go down in history saying he could have won if only he had been allowed to win. He was on the path to victory before those libs snatched it out of his hands.
longhorn said:
heheheheh. I even threw out some pan asian commie food as bait to get you back!! Did you smell it? heheheh
Wassa matter, the smell of roasting flesh yesterday wasnt enough to get you back? :)
Wassa matter, the smell of roasting flesh yesterday wasnt enough to get you back? :)
longhorn said:
Linda, that is the "stabbed in the back" meme the cons used after Vietnam. That's why the Dems in congress STILL pee their pants when forced to make decisions regarding warfare.
Didnt one of the DLC dems say this week that the voters have spoken, the house has spoken, and the senate has spoken, and he hoped Bush would now listen?
Didnt one of the DLC dems say this week that the voters have spoken, the house has spoken, and the senate has spoken, and he hoped Bush would now listen?
Danny said:
A chicken recipe, hopefully all will like to try it sometime:
What is needed
2 to 4 chicken breasts
1/8 to 1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Jalapenos(to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic, fresh minced preferably
Mix the olive oil, red pepper flakes, jalapenos, and garlic together, and then drizzle about half the solution on the chicken.
Cook the chicken as usual. When finished, drizzle the remaining solution over the chicken and serve.
What is needed
2 to 4 chicken breasts
1/8 to 1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Jalapenos(to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic, fresh minced preferably
Mix the olive oil, red pepper flakes, jalapenos, and garlic together, and then drizzle about half the solution on the chicken.
Cook the chicken as usual. When finished, drizzle the remaining solution over the chicken and serve.
longhorn said:
OT, but I am just HOWLING at the conservatives who are peeing THEIR pants about an upcoming casino vote?
WTF? These are the EXACT SAME PEOPLE who said the hate amendment NEEDED to be put up for a vote. They said voters had a RIGHT to determine such an issue by popular vote. They shouted on all media outlets that VOTING on such issues was American!!!
And now? THEY are whining about the tyranny of the majority when it comes to voting on gambling. Hehehehe. A-joles. They were before popular votes before they were against popular votes. Funny how those petards are always available for later hoisting.
As Pre always says, Karma is a bitch, isnt she?
WTF? These are the EXACT SAME PEOPLE who said the hate amendment NEEDED to be put up for a vote. They said voters had a RIGHT to determine such an issue by popular vote. They shouted on all media outlets that VOTING on such issues was American!!!
And now? THEY are whining about the tyranny of the majority when it comes to voting on gambling. Hehehehe. A-joles. They were before popular votes before they were against popular votes. Funny how those petards are always available for later hoisting.
As Pre always says, Karma is a bitch, isnt she?
Danny said:
I'd like to see us(dare I say want to see us) out of this war. I think that states it about as clearly as I can make it. DLC? Whats that?
longhorn said:
... and given that the majority of American oppose bush's war of choice in the ME, and the MAJORITY of voters want abortion to be safe and legal and the MAJORITY of the voters are moving left not right....
.... VIVA LA POPULAR VOTE!!!!!!!!!!
.... VIVA LA POPULAR VOTE!!!!!!!!!!
Danny said:
I'm not against casino's. Sure studies show they do create extra problems. However, I think if we address those in advance of building the casino's, then whats the issue.
CF said:
LH,
Much obliged for that welcome and all. This week at work has been eating my brain, ah tell you what.
I think this is a watershed day. Did anyone see the clip last night where Pelosi told Bush to "take a deep breath" and "calm down?" Wow. Just wow.
Bush is now officially Pelosi's bitch. Check out the pics and visual analysis at BagNews:
http://bagnewsnotes.typepad.com/bagnews/
Man. Pelosi is running the show in a BIG way.
Much obliged for that welcome and all. This week at work has been eating my brain, ah tell you what.
I think this is a watershed day. Did anyone see the clip last night where Pelosi told Bush to "take a deep breath" and "calm down?" Wow. Just wow.
Bush is now officially Pelosi's bitch. Check out the pics and visual analysis at BagNews:
http://bagnewsnotes.typepad.com/bagnews/
Man. Pelosi is running the show in a BIG way.
longhorn said:
Agreed CF. Nancy is no one to screw with. I just love it that she is treating the preznit like the little lord pissy pants he is. He acts like a two year old, complete with foot stomping tantrums, and like the good mother she is, she tells him to calm down, stop the threats and take a deep breath.
heheheheheheheeheheheheheheheh. I was waiting for her to give him a timeout until he could play nice with the rest of the little kids. hee hee hee hee hee hee
I wish Harry Reid had the same guts as Pelosi, but then he has to play a different game with LIEberman always throwing HIS tantrums and such a razor thin margin in the Senate.
I dont know about you all, but I cant WAIT for November of 08. It's gonna be so.much.fun to see the repukes and lieberman lose what little leverage they have. And to see the white house back in safe hands.
No matter WHICH dem wins, it's gotta be better than little lord pissy pants playing war games with live soldiers.
heheheheheheheeheheheheheheheh. I was waiting for her to give him a timeout until he could play nice with the rest of the little kids. hee hee hee hee hee hee
I wish Harry Reid had the same guts as Pelosi, but then he has to play a different game with LIEberman always throwing HIS tantrums and such a razor thin margin in the Senate.
I dont know about you all, but I cant WAIT for November of 08. It's gonna be so.much.fun to see the repukes and lieberman lose what little leverage they have. And to see the white house back in safe hands.
No matter WHICH dem wins, it's gotta be better than little lord pissy pants playing war games with live soldiers.
CF said:
LH,
Indeed. Harry Reid is playing with a very different deck, although I actually think that the Senate Dems on more on Lieberman's page than they like to admit--particularly Chuck Schumer. Still, the Senate is a minoritarian body, and requires a different touch. Up until now I'd been thinking that McConnell had way outmanuevered Reid, but I think Harry finally felt the political wind of 2008 that's at his back, and that the times, they are a-changin'.
But Pelosi--man. She's hard, sharp, and smooth, all at the same time. Man. She's just cut Bush to ribbons, and all he could do is rage and act out.
"A timeout." OUCH.
It's shaping up to be a pretty good week--the week America got its Congress back. If he wants to veto, let him. When he vetoes, Democrats win.
Indeed. Harry Reid is playing with a very different deck, although I actually think that the Senate Dems on more on Lieberman's page than they like to admit--particularly Chuck Schumer. Still, the Senate is a minoritarian body, and requires a different touch. Up until now I'd been thinking that McConnell had way outmanuevered Reid, but I think Harry finally felt the political wind of 2008 that's at his back, and that the times, they are a-changin'.
But Pelosi--man. She's hard, sharp, and smooth, all at the same time. Man. She's just cut Bush to ribbons, and all he could do is rage and act out.
"A timeout." OUCH.
It's shaping up to be a pretty good week--the week America got its Congress back. If he wants to veto, let him. When he vetoes, Democrats win.
longhorn said:
I also think the 08 white house race is going to be, once again, about the "economy, stupid" in addition to iraq and the total enphuckment of our foreign policy.
This mortgage default problem is going to snowball, and the price of oil and healthcare are again going to result in stagflation. Interest rates are not going to go down anytime soon, and I dont see any short term or long term gains in productivity any time soon to calm inflation.
And the whole military industrial mafia is being exposed, unless the bushies do indeed cow tow to the white house and shut down those corruption investigations.
In which case, the wh race will be about iraq, the economy, AND corruption. All issues the dems will whoop ass on compared to the repukes.
I love the smell of wingnut panic in the morning....
This mortgage default problem is going to snowball, and the price of oil and healthcare are again going to result in stagflation. Interest rates are not going to go down anytime soon, and I dont see any short term or long term gains in productivity any time soon to calm inflation.
And the whole military industrial mafia is being exposed, unless the bushies do indeed cow tow to the white house and shut down those corruption investigations.
In which case, the wh race will be about iraq, the economy, AND corruption. All issues the dems will whoop ass on compared to the repukes.
I love the smell of wingnut panic in the morning....
longhorn said:
"But Pelosi--man. She's hard, sharp, and smooth, all at the same time. Man. She's just cut Bush to ribbons, and all he could do is rage and act out."
Indeed. Aint it grand?:)
I think we can expect more of the same until little lord pissy pants either picks up his toys and goes home to crawford, or he gets SENT home to crawford for good. heheheheheh
Indeed. Aint it grand?:)
I think we can expect more of the same until little lord pissy pants either picks up his toys and goes home to crawford, or he gets SENT home to crawford for good. heheheheheh
CF said:
LH,
Indeed--whole lotta stink, that. But I will admit that this mortgage crisis has me quite spooked. Things already are getting ugly, and they look to get a lot uglier in the near future.
'Enphuckment.' When LH is on, LH is on.
Be back in a while.
Indeed--whole lotta stink, that. But I will admit that this mortgage crisis has me quite spooked. Things already are getting ugly, and they look to get a lot uglier in the near future.
'Enphuckment.' When LH is on, LH is on.
Be back in a while.
longhorn said:
Oh, and no shit about the DLCers like Shumer. I like him but he is DLC through and through. And that spells HONEY which rhymes with CORPORATE MONEY right here in river city...
.morg said:
Danny,
This is the DLC democratic leadership counsel
http://www.ndol.org/
This is the DNC
http://www.democrats.org/
This is the DLC democratic leadership counsel
http://www.ndol.org/
This is the DNC
http://www.democrats.org/
.morg said:
your daily dose of Al Jazeera:
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/04999562-9F...
Jet almost struck by meteor
must toil in the salt mines have a good day my cheeky little monkeys
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/04999562-9F...
Jet almost struck by meteor
must toil in the salt mines have a good day my cheeky little monkeys
darwinsdisciple said:
Subjectively, to people like me in the middle class, the economy does feel to be sucking badly. But seldom is this reported by the MSM. I heard an exception the other day when NPR was reporting on the surprise number of sales in February houseing market - the guy said it was the best month of several years of bad months - by implication nothing, at all, to get excited about.
Anybody else notice this or am I just paranoid? Tell me the truth, I can take it.
One other thing, while I am on the subject: Didn't Clinton/Gore do something so that we did not have these big spikes in gasoline prices every Spring? What did they do, if anything?
Anybody else notice this or am I just paranoid? Tell me the truth, I can take it.
One other thing, while I am on the subject: Didn't Clinton/Gore do something so that we did not have these big spikes in gasoline prices every Spring? What did they do, if anything?
Vaughn Tolle said:
dd, on the housing market issue; sounds like an attempt to put a positive spin on an otherwise ugly situation. I wonder how many of the sales in February were the result of forclosure inventory being sold by institutions. Of course, I don't know if these are included in the statistics, but I suspect they are.
longhorn said:
DD, you are not paranoid. I cant lay my hands on the poll, but recently there was an article published that households that make over $150k a year think the economy is booming. The rest of us poor bastards are sucking air. And we know it.
Depending on the weather here, (because you know even with all the rain now, it's still a long time to harvest) we were on schedule from Hays to Kanorado to have a record number of farm forclosures. Add to that subprime mortgage problems, and pension and entitlement problems, and you have the ingredients for a perfect economic storm in the midwest, particularly the high plains.
I dont know about price leveling for gas prices. Does anyone else? I just know that we have a little elasticity in the demand for energy right now, but it is dwindling in a hurry.
The price of fuel and the price of healthcare are inelastic demands. We need them no matter WHAT the price. Same goes with food. Do you think that is why corporate america has outsources our food supply?
Anyway, increases in prices for inelastic demand items causes not just inflation, but stag flation if there isnt a corresponding increase in productivity. And we are reaching the top of the curve on productivity from improved technology.
Blah, blah, blah. Is there anyone more boring than a water obsessed economist? :)
Depending on the weather here, (because you know even with all the rain now, it's still a long time to harvest) we were on schedule from Hays to Kanorado to have a record number of farm forclosures. Add to that subprime mortgage problems, and pension and entitlement problems, and you have the ingredients for a perfect economic storm in the midwest, particularly the high plains.
I dont know about price leveling for gas prices. Does anyone else? I just know that we have a little elasticity in the demand for energy right now, but it is dwindling in a hurry.
The price of fuel and the price of healthcare are inelastic demands. We need them no matter WHAT the price. Same goes with food. Do you think that is why corporate america has outsources our food supply?
Anyway, increases in prices for inelastic demand items causes not just inflation, but stag flation if there isnt a corresponding increase in productivity. And we are reaching the top of the curve on productivity from improved technology.
Blah, blah, blah. Is there anyone more boring than a water obsessed economist? :)
Vaughn Tolle said:
Excellent points, lh. That's why, in the health care area, the idea of the "market" is unrealistic, IMHO. With a cartel exploiting the relative price inelasticity of demand in the energy area, combined with the fact that the fossil fuels are a finite resource, can anyone say $5/gallon gasoline soon?
Combine the price inelasticity of demand for energy with scarcity of water, for example, and what happens to food prices?
OMG, reading the above reminds me why I didn't major in Economics.
Combine the price inelasticity of demand for energy with scarcity of water, for example, and what happens to food prices?
OMG, reading the above reminds me why I didn't major in Economics.
longhorn said:
hee hee hee hee VT!
That's why it is called the "dismal science". The allocation of scarce resources is never pretty.
I think though, that economics can be a most optimistic study if you do it from a perspective of abundance, not scarcity. But that is a trick you have to learn yourself, post grad, 'cause you know the academic economists are gonna pooh pooh it at every turn, and they DAMN sure wont teach it.
That's why it is called the "dismal science". The allocation of scarce resources is never pretty.
I think though, that economics can be a most optimistic study if you do it from a perspective of abundance, not scarcity. But that is a trick you have to learn yourself, post grad, 'cause you know the academic economists are gonna pooh pooh it at every turn, and they DAMN sure wont teach it.
.morg said:
http://calculatedrisk.blogspot.com/
CR has followed housing since 2004 they have been right on the money
http://www.rgemonitor.com/blog/roubini
Roubini has been very accurate in his predictions some sectors are in a recession now.
CR has followed housing since 2004 they have been right on the money
http://www.rgemonitor.com/blog/roubini
Roubini has been very accurate in his predictions some sectors are in a recession now.
darwinsdisciple said:
I read somewhere that when the economy is good everybody wants to consume business news, when it is not so good, people don't want to purchase the coverage. That could have an influence on how such info is disseminated.
Vaughn Tolle said:
Thanks for the links, dot. While I guess it's good to receive confirmation for my "gut" on this, the projections are disturbing.
longhorn said:
OMG, breaking news.
The REPUKES have invoked a little used proceedural rule to STOP the hearing today on the USA firings. It seems it was planned by getting the hearing off to a slow start with a series of freakin' roll call votes that made the dems suspicious.
Then according to this little used rule, if the committee has been meeting for a certain length of time (which was exceeded today) the minority can call to stop the committee meeting to attend to business on the floor. The rule was designed to keep committee business from interfering with full body floor business, but it is rarely if ever used.
Heheheheheeheh. The smell of wingnut desperation anyone?
The REPUKES have invoked a little used proceedural rule to STOP the hearing today on the USA firings. It seems it was planned by getting the hearing off to a slow start with a series of freakin' roll call votes that made the dems suspicious.
Then according to this little used rule, if the committee has been meeting for a certain length of time (which was exceeded today) the minority can call to stop the committee meeting to attend to business on the floor. The rule was designed to keep committee business from interfering with full body floor business, but it is rarely if ever used.
Heheheheheeheh. The smell of wingnut desperation anyone?
.morg said:
Right you are VT,
Asset bubbles are killing us. Greenspan opened up the credit spigot in the 90's which gave us the dot.com bubble instead of letting us go into recession in early 2000 to rebalance, he lowered interest rates to 1% and we got the housing bubble. Add rampant speculation and banking fraud we are in this spot.IMHO the world financial system is horribly imbalanced.
Asset bubbles are killing us. Greenspan opened up the credit spigot in the 90's which gave us the dot.com bubble instead of letting us go into recession in early 2000 to rebalance, he lowered interest rates to 1% and we got the housing bubble. Add rampant speculation and banking fraud we are in this spot.IMHO the world financial system is horribly imbalanced.
lindainks55 said:
From Froomkin: "Rove is indeed the Bush era's master of ceremonies -- and its leading beat-the-rapper."
If you can stomach watching this video of Rove dancing and prancing it does make him look pretty stewpid.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video...
If you can stomach watching this video of Rove dancing and prancing it does make him look pretty stewpid.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video...
Danny said:
.morg
Thanks for answering what DLC was. I was just thinking it was a typo. and thought it was DNC.
LH,
LH said, "DD, you are not paranoid. I cant lay my hands on the poll, but recently there was an article published that households that make over $150k a year think the economy is booming. The rest of us poor bastards are sucking air. And we know it."
I'd agree with that assessment, however my father in law who makes less(but has no debt now, so this make a HUGE difference I know) thinks that the economy is just fine. However, like I said, I'd agree with you that the economy isn't doing great.
Which is why part of me wants to just make videogames, which strangely enough seems to be doing fine. Videogames, get to entertain people and get paid for it. ;) However, I've never been one who has had much, and as a result I've learned that controlling my spending and my debt are two things I had to do.
Some people don't like unions, I don't think unions are all bad, but I don't think they are all good either. I do think the government helping companies provide healthcare(through tax incentives specifically for that purpose only maybe?) could help businesses bottom line and maybe hire more people. Further, for those unemployed healthcare that is free would be good(doesn't have to be the greatest, just something that will take care of the person), and for those working at small businesses that can not afford to cover health care costs, use the same program for those not able to work, but have a very small cost associated with it per month.
I don't think we need to completely nationalize healthcare, and granted I know as a result we'd all end up paying for it in more taxes in the long run... or some other programs will have to dropped/revamped. But I think it could work, but would need more "detail" if you know what I mean.
Further LH,
Could you send me some info. on the water situation? Like you said MSM doesn't cover it all that well. (And I did figure out MSM on my own... damn that took a few weeks).
Thanks for answering what DLC was. I was just thinking it was a typo. and thought it was DNC.
LH,
LH said, "DD, you are not paranoid. I cant lay my hands on the poll, but recently there was an article published that households that make over $150k a year think the economy is booming. The rest of us poor bastards are sucking air. And we know it."
I'd agree with that assessment, however my father in law who makes less(but has no debt now, so this make a HUGE difference I know) thinks that the economy is just fine. However, like I said, I'd agree with you that the economy isn't doing great.
Which is why part of me wants to just make videogames, which strangely enough seems to be doing fine. Videogames, get to entertain people and get paid for it. ;) However, I've never been one who has had much, and as a result I've learned that controlling my spending and my debt are two things I had to do.
Some people don't like unions, I don't think unions are all bad, but I don't think they are all good either. I do think the government helping companies provide healthcare(through tax incentives specifically for that purpose only maybe?) could help businesses bottom line and maybe hire more people. Further, for those unemployed healthcare that is free would be good(doesn't have to be the greatest, just something that will take care of the person), and for those working at small businesses that can not afford to cover health care costs, use the same program for those not able to work, but have a very small cost associated with it per month.
I don't think we need to completely nationalize healthcare, and granted I know as a result we'd all end up paying for it in more taxes in the long run... or some other programs will have to dropped/revamped. But I think it could work, but would need more "detail" if you know what I mean.
Further LH,
Could you send me some info. on the water situation? Like you said MSM doesn't cover it all that well. (And I did figure out MSM on my own... damn that took a few weeks).
Predestined said:
Something in my long-forgotten memory says that at one time there was a cap/maximum on how much fuel prices could rise within a certain amount of time. Unfortunately I can't remember when this was or if it's a figment of my very wild imagination.
Danny said:
You know, I just realized I didn't go into why I'm not a big fan of unions. Part of me says, they get our workers what they should have(or at least try to), but our competition for those jobs(in our global economy) offers the same for a heck of a lot less.
This leads me to ask, do unions intentionally try to get our workers more, knowing that the job could likely end up, south of our borders or overseas? Did that make sense, now this could reflect on issues I really know nothing about.
This leads me to ask, do unions intentionally try to get our workers more, knowing that the job could likely end up, south of our borders or overseas? Did that make sense, now this could reflect on issues I really know nothing about.
Danny said:
Pre,
I think that maybe something similar to price gouging. But may only apply to at the pump prices and limit how much they can raise at a given time in one day. So prices can go up day by day, but only so much on a given day.
I think that maybe something similar to price gouging. But may only apply to at the pump prices and limit how much they can raise at a given time in one day. So prices can go up day by day, but only so much on a given day.
longhorn said:
I dont have anything to "send" on water. It's all in my head, and I have no intention of becoming John the Baptist anytime soon! The google is always my best friend.
Danny said:
LH,
Fair enough. Was just wondering if you had any links or good articles. I'll do the google thing.
Fair enough. Was just wondering if you had any links or good articles. I'll do the google thing.
longhorn said:
I see the AG AG hearings are back on. The "lone anonymous republican" was convinced to back down on his demand to end the hearing. I'm tellin' ya, if I were Kyle Sampson? I'd have protection between today and the next time I testified. He almost called AG AG an outright liar, and the damage was just as deep with what he did say.
I wonder if Monica Goodling was waiting to see what Mr. Sampson spilled before she testified? I saw today that Liberty Law School has 150 grads employed with bushco. I'd say their alumni services group better gear up their job search support services... hehehehe
I wonder if Monica Goodling was waiting to see what Mr. Sampson spilled before she testified? I saw today that Liberty Law School has 150 grads employed with bushco. I'd say their alumni services group better gear up their job search support services... hehehehe
longhorn said:
You know, I was thinking about the intersection of politics and economics here, and something dawned on me. I think we should watch out for the bushco strategy of running out the clock on the economy, not just iraq. They would LOVE to hand off a recession to the next president and congress, especially if both are controlled by democrats. They might do some short term surgical proping up of the economy for political reasons and damn the long term consequenses. I think we have seen this before from bushco.
We would do well to remember that these bastards are capable of anything, including pushing the recession JUST for political reasons. The "collective good" isnt even a goddamn piece of paper!
We would do well to remember that these bastards are capable of anything, including pushing the recession JUST for political reasons. The "collective good" isnt even a goddamn piece of paper!
darwinsdisciple said:
An entirely different subject:
I got an email from J R yesterday. Ashamed to admit it, but I sometimes read at BlogX and I noticed he wasn't around any more. His web TV keyboard blew on Sunday and he was having posting withdrawal - he was writing from his mom's computer. One has to special order via snail mail to get a web TV keyboard. So, J R is thinking of joining the 21st century and purchasing a computer. [BTW, he said it was okay to share this info].
J R thought that he had some kind of agreement with Mike that Mike would build him one of those monster Unix systems that Mike is known for. When I responded to J R, I sent a copy to Mike. Mike replied and I was not sure that Mike had planned to build a system for J R - he did not say he wasn't, but it was not clear what the plan, if any, was.
Not long ago, I got my 12 yr old daughter a Pentium 4 "emachine" computer from BestBuy for less than $400. I upgraded my router and put a wireless card in her computer (her bedroom is upstairs, the other computers are downstairs). I have been very pleased with my daughter's computer -- it is nothing fancy, but sure seems to perform well for the money invested. My daughter is running Vista. I am not planning on upgrading soon, but I was not as disappointed with Vista, as I had anticipated I would be.
Getting to my point here: though money is tight and times are tough, I had planned to send the Democratic party $75 after the next pay check. I got to thinking, maybe my money could better spent on helping J R get a computer. I don't know if he would even accept such help. With Bush having a new scandal each day, I am thinking that the Dems don't really need my small amount of help that much. Whereas J R might and I would be able to see the direct result of my investment. Again, I am asking today, am I nuts for even considering this?
I got an email from J R yesterday. Ashamed to admit it, but I sometimes read at BlogX and I noticed he wasn't around any more. His web TV keyboard blew on Sunday and he was having posting withdrawal - he was writing from his mom's computer. One has to special order via snail mail to get a web TV keyboard. So, J R is thinking of joining the 21st century and purchasing a computer. [BTW, he said it was okay to share this info].
J R thought that he had some kind of agreement with Mike that Mike would build him one of those monster Unix systems that Mike is known for. When I responded to J R, I sent a copy to Mike. Mike replied and I was not sure that Mike had planned to build a system for J R - he did not say he wasn't, but it was not clear what the plan, if any, was.
Not long ago, I got my 12 yr old daughter a Pentium 4 "emachine" computer from BestBuy for less than $400. I upgraded my router and put a wireless card in her computer (her bedroom is upstairs, the other computers are downstairs). I have been very pleased with my daughter's computer -- it is nothing fancy, but sure seems to perform well for the money invested. My daughter is running Vista. I am not planning on upgrading soon, but I was not as disappointed with Vista, as I had anticipated I would be.
Getting to my point here: though money is tight and times are tough, I had planned to send the Democratic party $75 after the next pay check. I got to thinking, maybe my money could better spent on helping J R get a computer. I don't know if he would even accept such help. With Bush having a new scandal each day, I am thinking that the Dems don't really need my small amount of help that much. Whereas J R might and I would be able to see the direct result of my investment. Again, I am asking today, am I nuts for even considering this?
farmworker said:
When's the meetup? I'll bring some BBQ ribs and brisket. I have to cook in advance, because it takes 6+ hours to do BBQ right.
Danny said:
DD,
You are not nuts considering that, and if there is something I can do to help I will also. I can't donate alot to the cause, but I'd donate a little bit, either expertise or a little cash.
You are not nuts considering that, and if there is something I can do to help I will also. I can't donate alot to the cause, but I'd donate a little bit, either expertise or a little cash.
longhorn said:
Hi Tracy, nice to see yer backside again!
DD and JR if you are reading...
I'm not making fun at your expense. Really. I'm not. But I just got the giggles thinking about you burning up your keyboard trying to fend off the conservative onslaught at blog x. Hee hee hee hee. Either that, or I bet he got DROOLING mad, which I do myself, and drowned out the keyboard. heheheheh.
Sorry JR, but that was just too funny of a mental image not to share. I bet you burned it up typing hard and fast, but trying to fend off the wingnuts over there is like trying to drain the ocean by dipping out with a teaspoon. It's frustrating, tiring, and ultimately futile :)
But you sure were putting up a helluva fight!
DD and JR if you are reading...
I'm not making fun at your expense. Really. I'm not. But I just got the giggles thinking about you burning up your keyboard trying to fend off the conservative onslaught at blog x. Hee hee hee hee. Either that, or I bet he got DROOLING mad, which I do myself, and drowned out the keyboard. heheheheh.
Sorry JR, but that was just too funny of a mental image not to share. I bet you burned it up typing hard and fast, but trying to fend off the wingnuts over there is like trying to drain the ocean by dipping out with a teaspoon. It's frustrating, tiring, and ultimately futile :)
But you sure were putting up a helluva fight!
darwinsdisciple said:
Great, glad to hear it, LH. If, Mike is going to build one of those monsters, the way to go for J R would be getting a used "bare-bones" system from Ribbit Computer here in town. A workable computer and monitor can be had for $250. If there is no plan for a monster Unix system, I think the emachines option like I got for daughter would be the way to go.
Vaughn Tolle said:
JR, if you're reading this; should you obtain, however you do, a computer then I'd be delighted to download and burn to CD the latest stable release of Ubuntu Linux for you to use as an OS, assuming that the replacement doesn't come with an OS installed as my contribution to the cause.
Vaughn Tolle said:
dd, I concur; and, the offer of the Linux distro stands even moreso in that event.
Danny said:
DD,
Some links for your son if he likes/wants:
Developing GPS applications using .NET
http://www.developerfusion.co.uk/show/4634/
NMEA 0183 protocol spec:
http://www.gpsinformation.org/dale/nmea.htm
An interesting application(boat guided by GPS):
http://www.acroname.com/examples/10071/10071.html
My experience with GPS is that it is good for generality(in so far as consumer level equipment is concerned), but relying solely on GPS to drive a car could be bad, I've seen some of the consumer level appliances be off by as much as 200 to 500 ft, and as accurate as 12 to 15 ft.
Some links for your son if he likes/wants:
Developing GPS applications using .NET
http://www.developerfusion.co.uk/show/4634/
NMEA 0183 protocol spec:
http://www.gpsinformation.org/dale/nmea.htm
An interesting application(boat guided by GPS):
http://www.acroname.com/examples/10071/10071.html
My experience with GPS is that it is good for generality(in so far as consumer level equipment is concerned), but relying solely on GPS to drive a car could be bad, I've seen some of the consumer level appliances be off by as much as 200 to 500 ft, and as accurate as 12 to 15 ft.
Vaughn Tolle said:
Pre, if you're there; hope the ark plans have arrived safely, looking at the radar just now.
darwinsdisciple said:
J R said that he is able to read here, but not post; luckily for him (I think) he is able to neither read nor post at BlogX. Those were amusing images, LH.
.morg said:
I might be able to donate a system needs a hardrive I think. Depends on if I can convert this server I have to a computer.
darwinsdisciple said:
Thanks, Danny - I'll pass this on to my boy - that is quite a range on accuracy, isn't it.
Vaughn Tolle said:
Topic change again: a client sent this to me this a.m., and I read it, together with the earlier piece on the subject. Not asserting anything other that this, too, needs a look by the appropriate Senate committees.
http://www.metroactive.com/feinstein/feinstein-res...
http://www.metroactive.com/feinstein/feinstein-res...
Danny said:
DD,
Yeah it is, the biggest reasons behind it are going to be: location, buildings, clouds, and good satellite signals. Generally, it is accurate on linear speed.
Yeah it is, the biggest reasons behind it are going to be: location, buildings, clouds, and good satellite signals. Generally, it is accurate on linear speed.
lindainks55 said:
Won't the internet connection be more expensive than the computer? I already explained my total stupidity on this subject so don'd mind sounding dumber than dumb. I AM!
But whatever. I want to help J R! So, whoever, let me know what I need to do?
But whatever. I want to help J R! So, whoever, let me know what I need to do?
longhorn said:
Linda, I dont know if dial up would be more expensive than Web TV. There is a monthly charge for it too, and you must have a phone line.
Maybe we can collect enough dollars to pay for 6 mo of internet connection too. Or maybe he will be lucky and be able to steal a neighbor's bandwidth like Hank does. hehehehe.
Maybe we can collect enough dollars to pay for 6 mo of internet connection too. Or maybe he will be lucky and be able to steal a neighbor's bandwidth like Hank does. hehehehe.
Gster said:
I'd like to help also.
I"m not computer ignorant, or at least I didn't think so.
What the hell is Webtv?
Gary
I"m not computer ignorant, or at least I didn't think so.
What the hell is Webtv?
Gary
longhorn said:
OK, I went out hunting on the internets and brought home fresh kill :)
I got this at the dreaded DU today.
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0314-27.htm
"We can’t deny it any longer. There’s no point in hiding it, no point in trying to explain it away. Yes, it’s true: We progressives are angry. And we no longer care if the centrist, moderate guardians of the establishment scold us for it.
Our anger is not just some vague feeling whose source we can’t put our finger on. It isn’t based on absurd conspiracy theories and it isn’t illogical.
We’re angry because of what has happened to our country, because of how we’ve been treated, and because of the innumerable crimes the conservatives have committed. We’re angry at the president, we’re angry at the Congress, we’re angry at the news media. And we have every right to be.
Yes, we’re angry at George W. Bush. We’re not angry at him because of who he sleeps with, and we’re not angry at him because we think he represents some socio-cultural movement we didn’t like 40 years ago, or because he hung out with a different crowd than we did in high school. We’re angry at him because of what he’s done.
It’s true, we don’t like the fact that the most powerful human being on the planet is such a ridiculous buffoon that he can’t put two coherent sentences together without beginning to giggle and shimmy his shoulders. But we’re not angry because we think he’s stupid, we’re angry because he treats us as though we’re stupid.
We’re angry that he lied to us, and lied to us and lied to us again. We’re angry that when he lies to us it isn’t because he’s caught up in scandal or got caught doing something he shouldn’t have, it’s part of a carefully constructed plan to fool the public."
I got this at the dreaded DU today.
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0314-27.htm
"We can’t deny it any longer. There’s no point in hiding it, no point in trying to explain it away. Yes, it’s true: We progressives are angry. And we no longer care if the centrist, moderate guardians of the establishment scold us for it.
Our anger is not just some vague feeling whose source we can’t put our finger on. It isn’t based on absurd conspiracy theories and it isn’t illogical.
We’re angry because of what has happened to our country, because of how we’ve been treated, and because of the innumerable crimes the conservatives have committed. We’re angry at the president, we’re angry at the Congress, we’re angry at the news media. And we have every right to be.
Yes, we’re angry at George W. Bush. We’re not angry at him because of who he sleeps with, and we’re not angry at him because we think he represents some socio-cultural movement we didn’t like 40 years ago, or because he hung out with a different crowd than we did in high school. We’re angry at him because of what he’s done.
It’s true, we don’t like the fact that the most powerful human being on the planet is such a ridiculous buffoon that he can’t put two coherent sentences together without beginning to giggle and shimmy his shoulders. But we’re not angry because we think he’s stupid, we’re angry because he treats us as though we’re stupid.
We’re angry that he lied to us, and lied to us and lied to us again. We’re angry that when he lies to us it isn’t because he’s caught up in scandal or got caught doing something he shouldn’t have, it’s part of a carefully constructed plan to fool the public."
longhorn said:
Webtv allows you to access and surf the internet from your TV. There is a keyboard and I think a box, but I dont remember. It uses your TV instead of a computer. I had pals in Austin that used it, but that was a long time ago. I think it is owned by Microsoft now.
Vaughn Tolle said:
For all of you with high school students in the house (or high school grandchildren) who are not Seniors this year. Harvard announces it has accepted only 9% of those who applied.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=2991876&page=1
The college of the younger announced on its admissions blog that it accepted under 30% of its applicants this year, a record for it. Apparently, being named a member of the "25 New Ivies" by Kaplan in the fall caused apps to increase considerably in number.
Here's the kicker in all this. Harvard, et al (including Colby) have programs to increase diversity on campus; "diversity" in this sense encompasses not only ethnic diversity, but also economic and geographical diversity. Thus, a "middle class" applicant from Kansas, e.g., has a better chance for admission than an applicant from the East Coast whose family may be "wealthy" (non-Alum), all other things being equal. And, if your student has dreams of attending Harvard, and the household income is less than $60,000, then s/he may attend at no tuition cost if admitted (note: this does not include room and board). Just something to think about.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=2991876&page=1
The college of the younger announced on its admissions blog that it accepted under 30% of its applicants this year, a record for it. Apparently, being named a member of the "25 New Ivies" by Kaplan in the fall caused apps to increase considerably in number.
Here's the kicker in all this. Harvard, et al (including Colby) have programs to increase diversity on campus; "diversity" in this sense encompasses not only ethnic diversity, but also economic and geographical diversity. Thus, a "middle class" applicant from Kansas, e.g., has a better chance for admission than an applicant from the East Coast whose family may be "wealthy" (non-Alum), all other things being equal. And, if your student has dreams of attending Harvard, and the household income is less than $60,000, then s/he may attend at no tuition cost if admitted (note: this does not include room and board). Just something to think about.
Danny said:
Linda,
If I'm not mistaken WebTV requires an internet connection(and I think cable/dsl or dialup can work). I could be wrong on that though as I don't use it.
LH,
You are correct WebTV is a Microsoft product now(I think it may have always been).
Gster,
WebTV is a little box that connects to the TV allowing for only web browsing and email. I think, if you use Google, you could in theory do things like spreadsheets and word style documents in the browser. Then go to a library and print these out as they would be stored on Google servers.
If I'm not mistaken WebTV requires an internet connection(and I think cable/dsl or dialup can work). I could be wrong on that though as I don't use it.
LH,
You are correct WebTV is a Microsoft product now(I think it may have always been).
Gster,
WebTV is a little box that connects to the TV allowing for only web browsing and email. I think, if you use Google, you could in theory do things like spreadsheets and word style documents in the browser. Then go to a library and print these out as they would be stored on Google servers.
Predestined said:
Count me in on helping JR get a computer. I've been silently wondering for a while if there was something we could do as a group. Not sure if I can go the same amount, but I'll try to come close. I also have an old HP that died a few years ago, and anything on it that can be used is up for grabs. My techies couldn't figure out what the problem was with it, and since it was the spare...
lindainks55 said:
Did you gals get that Easter greeting I sent? I have been at this keyboard too long today! But I'm still laughing about those rabbits. I must go do something even if it's wrong. See ya later.
WSClark said:
Happy dreary afternoon to y'all!!!! Random thoughts.....
I am feeling a bit homicidal this afternoon after spending some quality time with the folks at IRS. I have more work to do, but basically it comes down to I'M SCREWED.
I want to thank Linda for contributing the article regarding Mass Transit - in her honor, I took the bus downtown today. I will make further comments on the thread later.
A couple of notes regarding J R's computer - my offer of assistance in building a computer still stands. Also, if he were to purchase a used unit, I can help him update it as necessary. As for the Internet connection, you will NEVER go back to dial up after having a high speed ISP. That having been said, ISP's like NetZero get get you going for $10 per month or so. I would guess that J R has a phone line, so that might be the way to go.
If Pre has an old HP, perhaps my son could take a look at it and come up with a repair cost - mommy board are fairly cheap if that is the prob.....
There is a local "swap meet" for computer parts that is open to the public about twice a month her ein Wichita. That might be a alternative for J R. They might even have a WebTV keyboard - you just never can tell. If anyone is interested, I can get particulars.
Political news - Gonzo is dead meat - couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.
WichiNews - make plans to vote folks - no excuses will be accepted!
I have to go for a bit..... have to meet up with the gun dealer in a back alley to pick out a weapon......
(That last para was JUST KIDDING!!!!!!)
I am feeling a bit homicidal this afternoon after spending some quality time with the folks at IRS. I have more work to do, but basically it comes down to I'M SCREWED.
I want to thank Linda for contributing the article regarding Mass Transit - in her honor, I took the bus downtown today. I will make further comments on the thread later.
A couple of notes regarding J R's computer - my offer of assistance in building a computer still stands. Also, if he were to purchase a used unit, I can help him update it as necessary. As for the Internet connection, you will NEVER go back to dial up after having a high speed ISP. That having been said, ISP's like NetZero get get you going for $10 per month or so. I would guess that J R has a phone line, so that might be the way to go.
If Pre has an old HP, perhaps my son could take a look at it and come up with a repair cost - mommy board are fairly cheap if that is the prob.....
There is a local "swap meet" for computer parts that is open to the public about twice a month her ein Wichita. That might be a alternative for J R. They might even have a WebTV keyboard - you just never can tell. If anyone is interested, I can get particulars.
Political news - Gonzo is dead meat - couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.
WichiNews - make plans to vote folks - no excuses will be accepted!
I have to go for a bit..... have to meet up with the gun dealer in a back alley to pick out a weapon......
(That last para was JUST KIDDING!!!!!!)
Predestined said:
VT, the ark plans have arrived, along with delivery of the supplies. Both of my thumbs are smashed beyond recognition, and the gash in my thigh from the saw has finally stopped bleeding. I had to get a tetanus shot because of all the nails I've stepped on. Should I be using screws?
I've sent the family out to gather two of each critter, suggesting they leave the poisonous snakes behind. All I've heard back is a bunch of SOS's. The storms seem to be interfering with cell phone reception...
I've sent the family out to gather two of each critter, suggesting they leave the poisonous snakes behind. All I've heard back is a bunch of SOS's. The storms seem to be interfering with cell phone reception...
Vaughn Tolle said:
Good to know, Pre; BTW, given what I'm viewing out my office windows right now, any chance I can hitch a ride? :-)
TRACY said:
Ya'll really are some wonderful, caring, sharing folks. Even id JR won't accept a gift, what a wonderful way to show the you(we) care!
Okay, now if I've sucked up enough,
I sure could use a ...........HA!
Just kidden'
I guess I'm a democrat, self confessed:
http://www.democrats.org/page/dashboard/private/gH...
Okay, now if I've sucked up enough,
I sure could use a ...........HA!
Just kidden'
I guess I'm a democrat, self confessed:
http://www.democrats.org/page/dashboard/private/gH...
longhorn said:
Pre, now THAT is funny!
Clark :( I'm sorry. We miss you when you are not here. I'm thinking a gift for the perp of pet food baked into a cake? heheheheheh. I bet Julie and Tracy would buy one too!
Clark :( I'm sorry. We miss you when you are not here. I'm thinking a gift for the perp of pet food baked into a cake? heheheheheh. I bet Julie and Tracy would buy one too!
longhorn said:
(I love it when the kids get home from work and come out to play!) Rain day, and I've wasted it all here today. But I couldnt have picked better or more interesting folks to waste it with!
longhorn said:
heheheeh VT! I'm no Festus Hagan:) And it would require all new implements. And fuel, but I could use the uh, byproducts in the garden.
longhorn said:
OK, this is bewwy scawwwy. From DU.
http://www.regent.edu/acad/schlaw /
This is Pat Robertson's madrassa where they're growing the legal footsoldiers that are, according to Rachel Maddow, 150 strong in the Bush administration. They're engaged in many other activities, too. A heady alchemy of Federalist Society doctrine mixed with Jesus Camp fervor and stridency, they are the lieutenants in an all out frontal assault on our Democracy.
And its all legal and tidy.
http://www.regent.edu/acad/schlaw /
This is Pat Robertson's madrassa where they're growing the legal footsoldiers that are, according to Rachel Maddow, 150 strong in the Bush administration. They're engaged in many other activities, too. A heady alchemy of Federalist Society doctrine mixed with Jesus Camp fervor and stridency, they are the lieutenants in an all out frontal assault on our Democracy.
And its all legal and tidy.
darwinsdisciple said:
From LH's link:
"Regent Law Students Attend Ice Cream Social with General Ashcroft"
Attorney General, God's General -- what do they mean, exactly?
Monica Golding (sp?) went to Messiah College and Regent's law school. Patrick Henry College is one set up for right wing christian conservative kids who were home schooled. Jim Ryun's boy went there and now works in the office of Karl Rove. If this administration gets shut down, it will be real interesting to see what creatures come scurrying into the light.
"Regent Law Students Attend Ice Cream Social with General Ashcroft"
Attorney General, God's General -- what do they mean, exactly?
Monica Golding (sp?) went to Messiah College and Regent's law school. Patrick Henry College is one set up for right wing christian conservative kids who were home schooled. Jim Ryun's boy went there and now works in the office of Karl Rove. If this administration gets shut down, it will be real interesting to see what creatures come scurrying into the light.
Vaughn Tolle said:
A bit of trivia: Regent University School of Law was originally Oral Roberts University School of Law; IIRC, when ORU faced financial problems "a while back", Pat Robertson acquired the Law School, and added it to what was then CBN University, now Regent University.
The school is ABA accredited, and all that. While I wouldn't attend the place, there should be a place for those who feel a religiously based law school is to their advantage. I suspect, however, that "religiously" in the preceding sentence should be "Christian" to be more precise.
The school is ABA accredited, and all that. While I wouldn't attend the place, there should be a place for those who feel a religiously based law school is to their advantage. I suspect, however, that "religiously" in the preceding sentence should be "Christian" to be more precise.
Vaughn Tolle said:
dd, the use of the term "General" in that context refers to an Attorney General. HTH.
Vaughn Tolle said:
I believe I may have posted that Ms Gooding attended Liberty University Law School in a posting or two yesterday; such was erroneous. I therefore request that the record be amended by substituting Regent University for Liberty University in all such posts.
WSClark said:
A thunderstorm story........
About five years ago, my son and I returned to Wichita. We shared a place with my daughter and granddaughter for a while. The next winter, we noticed a feral or stray female cat had taken up residence under a storage shed nearby. Soon it was apparent that "Clara" was pregnant. We left food and water out for her on our porch, so that she did not have to scrounge for food. A few weeks later, it was obvious that Clara had given birth under the shed.
Shortly after that, we had a heavy snowstorm, followed by very cold temperatures. It had to be miserable under that shed.
One evening when I came home, there were three tiny kittens on our front porch. We scooped them up and took them inside. My daughter made a bed for them with a box and a few blankets. A little while later Clara came to the door. We let her in but she only stayed long enough to nurse her kits, then she left again.
As the kittens grew stronger, they began to move about. Soon they found a new source of warmth - Rocky, my then four year old Golden Retriever. Being a gentle soul, Rocky allowed the three tiny kittens to climb on and over him. The soon found that they could snuggle up to the ninety pound Golden Retriever and they would be safe and warm.
My daughter named the kittens Morgan, Greta and Buddha. Soon, Clara disappeared and the kittens were adopted into our home. A friend took Greta, but Morgan became my cat. Buddha, who is twice his sister's size with half of her brains, became my daughter's cat.
As usual in Kansas, when Spring came the thunderstorms came with it. When the rain and thunder began, Morgan and Buddha would come running, looking for Rocky and the safety that he provided. As the storms raged, they would crawl under his chin, sheltered in the mane of the Golden Retriever.
In May of 2005, Rocky was diagnosed with cancer. What initially was thought to be a broken nail on his right front paw was actually bone cancer. He was given just three months to live.
If love alone could have kept him alive, Rocky would have lived forever. He fought the good fight, but in late April of 2006, eleven months after the diagnosis, I had to hold him as the vet gave him the shot that ended his life. It was, if not the saddest, certainly one of the saddest days of my life.
Even in those last few days, when the thunder would begin, Morgan and Buddha would go looking for Rocky. Despite his condition, he would allow the now adult cats to snuggle up to him, under his chin, to ride the storm out.
This afternoon, as the thunder sounds in the distance, Morgan is trying to find a safe place for shelter. She has run from my bedroom to the kitchen, finally hiding under the sink.
I am sure that most would say that she is just afraid of the noise.
I think that she is still looking for Rocky.
About five years ago, my son and I returned to Wichita. We shared a place with my daughter and granddaughter for a while. The next winter, we noticed a feral or stray female cat had taken up residence under a storage shed nearby. Soon it was apparent that "Clara" was pregnant. We left food and water out for her on our porch, so that she did not have to scrounge for food. A few weeks later, it was obvious that Clara had given birth under the shed.
Shortly after that, we had a heavy snowstorm, followed by very cold temperatures. It had to be miserable under that shed.
One evening when I came home, there were three tiny kittens on our front porch. We scooped them up and took them inside. My daughter made a bed for them with a box and a few blankets. A little while later Clara came to the door. We let her in but she only stayed long enough to nurse her kits, then she left again.
As the kittens grew stronger, they began to move about. Soon they found a new source of warmth - Rocky, my then four year old Golden Retriever. Being a gentle soul, Rocky allowed the three tiny kittens to climb on and over him. The soon found that they could snuggle up to the ninety pound Golden Retriever and they would be safe and warm.
My daughter named the kittens Morgan, Greta and Buddha. Soon, Clara disappeared and the kittens were adopted into our home. A friend took Greta, but Morgan became my cat. Buddha, who is twice his sister's size with half of her brains, became my daughter's cat.
As usual in Kansas, when Spring came the thunderstorms came with it. When the rain and thunder began, Morgan and Buddha would come running, looking for Rocky and the safety that he provided. As the storms raged, they would crawl under his chin, sheltered in the mane of the Golden Retriever.
In May of 2005, Rocky was diagnosed with cancer. What initially was thought to be a broken nail on his right front paw was actually bone cancer. He was given just three months to live.
If love alone could have kept him alive, Rocky would have lived forever. He fought the good fight, but in late April of 2006, eleven months after the diagnosis, I had to hold him as the vet gave him the shot that ended his life. It was, if not the saddest, certainly one of the saddest days of my life.
Even in those last few days, when the thunder would begin, Morgan and Buddha would go looking for Rocky. Despite his condition, he would allow the now adult cats to snuggle up to him, under his chin, to ride the storm out.
This afternoon, as the thunder sounds in the distance, Morgan is trying to find a safe place for shelter. She has run from my bedroom to the kitchen, finally hiding under the sink.
I am sure that most would say that she is just afraid of the noise.
I think that she is still looking for Rocky.
Vaughn Tolle said:
WS, after reading about Rocky, in the words of an old Temptations song, "Oh, how I wish it would rain". (or something like that)
lindainks55 said:
Now you went and made me cry.
I think the only reason our pets have shorter life spans they us is because they deserve to be spared the pain of losing their humans. We'll never be as good as they think we are.
I think the only reason our pets have shorter life spans they us is because they deserve to be spared the pain of losing their humans. We'll never be as good as they think we are.
Hank said:
Dear Clark,
Tears in my eyes as the picture of Rocky, safe harbor in the storm, causes me to remember my own lost friends.
I posted the Golden show times on the open thread yesterday for you. Let me know if you need me to do it again.
Hank
Tears in my eyes as the picture of Rocky, safe harbor in the storm, causes me to remember my own lost friends.
I posted the Golden show times on the open thread yesterday for you. Let me know if you need me to do it again.
Hank
longhorn said:
Wow Clark, that is a great piece of writing. Linda, you are so right. We will never be as good as they think we are. I thought about Concha last night too. She totally FREAKED out during a thunderstorm. Then she would start the Husky "woo woo hoo".
Pitiful. Just pitiful for a big dog like her :)
Pitiful. Just pitiful for a big dog like her :)
Predestined said:
LH, I know where you might be able to steal an old tractor...
Uh, did I say that? Nooooooo
Uh, did I say that? Nooooooo
Hank said:
We lost Julia; AKA, JuJu Bee; AKA, Beezer two years ago, She was Samson's littermate and a typical Beardie Bitch.
Terrified of thunderstorms. In the middle of the night a thunderstorm would roll in and I'd make a pallet in my walk-in closet. I would sleep on the floor with her holding her tight until the storm was over. She was safe in my arms.
Couple of months ago I was half woken up in the middloe of the night b a thunderstorm. In my sleep I went to the comforter chest and started getting out my pallet making blanket. Joyce asked what I was doing. When I realized that Beezer was safe now without me, Joyce and I held each other as we cried ourselves back to sleep.
Hank
Terrified of thunderstorms. In the middle of the night a thunderstorm would roll in and I'd make a pallet in my walk-in closet. I would sleep on the floor with her holding her tight until the storm was over. She was safe in my arms.
Couple of months ago I was half woken up in the middloe of the night b a thunderstorm. In my sleep I went to the comforter chest and started getting out my pallet making blanket. Joyce asked what I was doing. When I realized that Beezer was safe now without me, Joyce and I held each other as we cried ourselves back to sleep.
Hank
Predestined said:
Thank you for the lovely dog stories, Will and Hank! There's nothing so wonderful in this world as a loving and well-loved pet.
This is weird, so I thought I'd get the take of a few others on it.
My daughter came to pick up her 2 little ones earlier and announced that their Basset Hound had disappeared. Her hubby had hunted all over and thought he had found a hole dug under to the neighbor's fenced yard, but no BJ could be found. I told her to put up flyers around the neighborhood.
She left and called back a little later to tell me that several other people in the neighborhood were also missing dogs. One a Rottweiler. And that several police were in the area. Apparently there had either been a few break-ins or break-in attempts. I told her that if she or her hubby didn't get their selves down and talk to the police, I would. (They're only a mile away from me.)
Here's my thoughts on this. The burglars may have been releasing several dogs in the area, with robbery in mind. Hey, I'D want to get rid of the dogs before breaking into a house. My daughter has 3 dogs, and only the Basset was missing. The 1/2 Lab and the new Cocker puppy were still there and hadn't crawled through the hole...if indeed that's what happened. Maybe they weren't out in the yard via the doggy door?
Would someone go around the neighborhood, breaking in and also STEALING dogs?
I'm waiting to hear if there's any news. BJ is such a sweetheart and reminds me of the Basset I had several years ago. I'm really feeling blue about this.
This is weird, so I thought I'd get the take of a few others on it.
My daughter came to pick up her 2 little ones earlier and announced that their Basset Hound had disappeared. Her hubby had hunted all over and thought he had found a hole dug under to the neighbor's fenced yard, but no BJ could be found. I told her to put up flyers around the neighborhood.
She left and called back a little later to tell me that several other people in the neighborhood were also missing dogs. One a Rottweiler. And that several police were in the area. Apparently there had either been a few break-ins or break-in attempts. I told her that if she or her hubby didn't get their selves down and talk to the police, I would. (They're only a mile away from me.)
Here's my thoughts on this. The burglars may have been releasing several dogs in the area, with robbery in mind. Hey, I'D want to get rid of the dogs before breaking into a house. My daughter has 3 dogs, and only the Basset was missing. The 1/2 Lab and the new Cocker puppy were still there and hadn't crawled through the hole...if indeed that's what happened. Maybe they weren't out in the yard via the doggy door?
Would someone go around the neighborhood, breaking in and also STEALING dogs?
I'm waiting to hear if there's any news. BJ is such a sweetheart and reminds me of the Basset I had several years ago. I'm really feeling blue about this.
gster said:
I was more of a cat guy than a dog guy, but really liked both. I had a girl friend that was a super animal person, and she told me she was going to get a dog that was abused away from it's owner.
I came home dsys later, and out walked a Cookapoo, looking at me as if " Who the hell are you?". He was Ziggy, 7 years old and forced to live under a couch. The owners wouldn't take him outdoors, and when Ziggy wet the carpet ,they beat him. To top it off, it was a guy doing these things to Ziggy.
I had him fixed up at the vet's office and things were OK. A Sunday morning, about 2 years ater, we were out in my driveway doing something. Ziggy wasn't on a leash, he never wandered. Suddenly a neighbor's Malemute (SP?) was there, and Ziggy barked at her. The Malemute grabbed him and shook him and spit him out. He died in my arms about 2 minutes later.
The dogs owner, hearing the yelling, came down and he was more upset than I. He helped me bury Ziggy and said his dog was going to be put down.
I grew up in a very dysfunctional family and have alwaya been an aloof outside type. I was amazed at how devasted I was by ZIggy's death. I hadn't been that upset since the buddies I lost in Viet Nam.
Voya con Dios, Ziggy
I came home dsys later, and out walked a Cookapoo, looking at me as if " Who the hell are you?". He was Ziggy, 7 years old and forced to live under a couch. The owners wouldn't take him outdoors, and when Ziggy wet the carpet ,they beat him. To top it off, it was a guy doing these things to Ziggy.
I had him fixed up at the vet's office and things were OK. A Sunday morning, about 2 years ater, we were out in my driveway doing something. Ziggy wasn't on a leash, he never wandered. Suddenly a neighbor's Malemute (SP?) was there, and Ziggy barked at her. The Malemute grabbed him and shook him and spit him out. He died in my arms about 2 minutes later.
The dogs owner, hearing the yelling, came down and he was more upset than I. He helped me bury Ziggy and said his dog was going to be put down.
I grew up in a very dysfunctional family and have alwaya been an aloof outside type. I was amazed at how devasted I was by ZIggy's death. I hadn't been that upset since the buddies I lost in Viet Nam.
Voya con Dios, Ziggy
lindainks55 said:
Some stories of real love here! There's a LOT of hope for mankind in that sentence we've all read, "I want to be the man my dog thinks I am."
If only it were as safe to love humans this much. We might get to where we trusted one another and could depend on one another.
If only it were as safe to love humans this much. We might get to where we trusted one another and could depend on one another.
gster said:
Pleae forgive my spelling and short choppy sentences while teling Ziggy's story. It still stings!
Gary
Gary
darwinsdisciple said:
Gary,
No need to apologize. That was a great story.
Linda is right, there is hope for people. I have always had this idiopathic theory that when people are closer to all animals, we are closer to each other (meaning other people). It sounds silly and dumb, but I think it is true.
No need to apologize. That was a great story.
Linda is right, there is hope for people. I have always had this idiopathic theory that when people are closer to all animals, we are closer to each other (meaning other people). It sounds silly and dumb, but I think it is true.
Hank said:
Just delivered another lamb. Momma was having a little trouble needed some help.
A little messy, little bloody, touch and go and then...
the miracle of life!
Looks like a double, I'll have to check her every hour or so tonight until the other one graces us with its appearance.
Hank
A little messy, little bloody, touch and go and then...
the miracle of life!
Looks like a double, I'll have to check her every hour or so tonight until the other one graces us with its appearance.
Hank
Predestined said:
Hank, will you have to bottle feed the second one? Or have you had luck with ewes taking twins?
I remember going out to my greataunt and greatuncle's farm and feeding lambs their bottles when I was real little. That and watching the sheering are something I'll always remember.
(I've helped pull a calf, myself.)
I remember going out to my greataunt and greatuncle's farm and feeding lambs their bottles when I was real little. That and watching the sheering are something I'll always remember.
(I've helped pull a calf, myself.)
Hank said:
Usually twins are no problem. Any way I've never had any problems with twins. Two years ago we had triplets! One was a little runty but the ewe took good care of all three. No problems.
Its a long and humorous story as to how I got involve with raising sheep. You see, one day my wife said "I want a Bearded Collie". I said, "OK baby."
Bearded Collies are sheep dogs you see. . . . .
Its a long and humorous story as to how I got involve with raising sheep. You see, one day my wife said "I want a Bearded Collie". I said, "OK baby."
Bearded Collies are sheep dogs you see. . . . .
WSClark said:
Good for you, Hank, good for you. You take care of those little ones, sheep or dogs.
God, if we could all just love one another like we love our animals.
BTW - Thanks for the heads up about Goldens. I am not sure that I could handle another Golden after having the absolute PERFECT DOG, but it is on my mind.
God, if we could all just love one another like we love our animals.
BTW - Thanks for the heads up about Goldens. I am not sure that I could handle another Golden after having the absolute PERFECT DOG, but it is on my mind.
Hank said:
Hey Clark,
Come out and see them, go in the office have them get me on the radio and I'll buy you coke and a muffin.
When your ready check these people out:
http://www.goldenrecovery.org/
God never lets us keep them long enough, but he lets us have all our hearts can hold!
Hank
Come out and see them, go in the office have them get me on the radio and I'll buy you coke and a muffin.
When your ready check these people out:
http://www.goldenrecovery.org/
God never lets us keep them long enough, but he lets us have all our hearts can hold!
Hank
longhorn said:
Wow, such touching stories. To paraphrase Sting, I hope the Arabs love their animals too? heheheheheh Gster, that was a great story.
Concha was always slightly embarassed the morning after her thunderstom performances. So undignified for a beautiful blond and blue eyed Husky to be groveling and shivering next to the bed. Huskies have a big dignity and pride thing, ya know?
Pre, my girl dug like a back hoe when she was young. I went to Husky rescue recently and found out that is a TOTALLY Husky trait. They tell you up front to be prepared if you own a Husky, 'cause they think it is waaaaay easier to train you to THEIR ways than it is for them to conform to yours. :)
Sounds like not only will I see Concha and Poco and Justice and Sporty, but I'll see all of YOU at the Rainbow Bridge someday!
Concha was always slightly embarassed the morning after her thunderstom performances. So undignified for a beautiful blond and blue eyed Husky to be groveling and shivering next to the bed. Huskies have a big dignity and pride thing, ya know?
Pre, my girl dug like a back hoe when she was young. I went to Husky rescue recently and found out that is a TOTALLY Husky trait. They tell you up front to be prepared if you own a Husky, 'cause they think it is waaaaay easier to train you to THEIR ways than it is for them to conform to yours. :)
Sounds like not only will I see Concha and Poco and Justice and Sporty, but I'll see all of YOU at the Rainbow Bridge someday!
lindainks55 said:
I'm not sure if any of you are readers just for the fun of reading. Seems you are too well informed and smart to spend the time I do just reading a story. Anyway, Dean Koontz is an author who sometimes is too far out there with his stories but most times I enjoy his books. He is a dog lover. His current friend is Trixie, a golden retriever who is a retired service dog and a published author! All proceeds from the sale of her book are given to Canine Companions for Independence which is an organization that breeds and trains service dogs for adults and children with disabilities.
Her book is titled, "Life is Good." The book is written by Trixie Koontz, dog and edited by Dean Koontz, dad. Here is an excerpt:
"I Trixie Koontz (who is dog) am happy twenty-three hours, fifty-eight minutes and thirty seconds every day. Am unhappy only for thirty seconds after breakfast, after lunch, and after dinner because food gone, leaving empty dish. Empty dish looks as deep as eternity. Tail won't wag. Try again. Won't wag. Try again. Realize dish must be empty before it can be filled again. Empty dish is promise of full dish to come. Life is good. Time to pee.
While peeing, realize most humans are unhappy more than one and half minutes per day. Could help humanity by writing book, sharing dog philosophy of joyful living."
Trixie's book just gets waaaay better from there! The book touches on topics such as trust, self-esteem, safe driving, meditation, peanut butter, holidays, swimming, napping and abiding love for all creatures...and for bacon.
Whether you are just an animal lover, have a child in your life, are still a child at heart -- whatever the reason I highly recommend this book. You will laugh, cry, and want to share it.
Her book is titled, "Life is Good." The book is written by Trixie Koontz, dog and edited by Dean Koontz, dad. Here is an excerpt:
"I Trixie Koontz (who is dog) am happy twenty-three hours, fifty-eight minutes and thirty seconds every day. Am unhappy only for thirty seconds after breakfast, after lunch, and after dinner because food gone, leaving empty dish. Empty dish looks as deep as eternity. Tail won't wag. Try again. Won't wag. Try again. Realize dish must be empty before it can be filled again. Empty dish is promise of full dish to come. Life is good. Time to pee.
While peeing, realize most humans are unhappy more than one and half minutes per day. Could help humanity by writing book, sharing dog philosophy of joyful living."
Trixie's book just gets waaaay better from there! The book touches on topics such as trust, self-esteem, safe driving, meditation, peanut butter, holidays, swimming, napping and abiding love for all creatures...and for bacon.
Whether you are just an animal lover, have a child in your life, are still a child at heart -- whatever the reason I highly recommend this book. You will laugh, cry, and want to share it.
Predestined said:
LH, my oldest has always wanted a Husky so she got one. Never mind that she and her hubby don't have a huge yard. She's a stubborn one. This is what comes from growing up on a farm and having more animals than needed. *grin* We always had at least one dog, often two or three, plus a plethora of cats. I learned early on not to get too attached, because a broken heart after the death of one happened too often. Deep down I'm a softie. With four kids, that can make things very difficult.
When my girls were small, they brought home a new pet. "Can we keep it, Mom? PLEASE?" was all I heard. And then I looked in the bucket. They'd found a mole. Guess what Mom said?
When my girls were small, they brought home a new pet. "Can we keep it, Mom? PLEASE?" was all I heard. And then I looked in the bucket. They'd found a mole. Guess what Mom said?
Loading....