Good Morning and welcome to the end of the week!
Meanwhile, don't hold your breath for Prince Harry to stop by Delco during his visit to Philadelphia today. He'd probably bump into somebody while getting a Wawa sandwich and we'd have an international incident.
We also have this idiot who called 911 after not getting his orange juice at McDonald's. Anybody want to bet he has some ties to Delco. By the way, if you're so angry it upsets you when your OJ doesn't come fast enough, you probably send letters to THIS PILLAR OF SOCIETY.
Then again, we live in a world where THIS BRAINIAC and THIS GENIUS can be our next door neighbor.
Well, we do have THESE KIND OF PEOPLE teaching our youth. What do we expect?
Thankfully, HE'S BACK! Now, there's the comedy we've been missing.
Speaking of comedy...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- MMIX-ing it up
Good Morning and welcome to another Thursday in a long line of Thursdays!
Sometimes (OK, most of the time), it appears teachers are giving students busy work between tests. For instance, last night a fourth-grader came home with a little bit more homework than usual.
By the way, thanks for that as the school year is winding down and the sunlight is stretching longer.
So, part of the homework was using Roman Numerals. This fourth-grade class had to change 'regular' numbers into Roman Numerals and vice versa.
Now, I understand the multiplication and division homework. I understand the word problem homework. I understand the spelling homework.
But, Roman Numerals? What, are we going to get a re-incarnation of Julius Caesar and change back?
Really, what use is Roman Numerals anymore. Unless they need to find out how many Super Bowls there have been or you have one of those goofy, over sized clocks, there's no need for this.
Or, as we used to say in school, 'The teachers are bored at the end of the year and just want to keep everybody from looking out the window.'
How about some practical learning?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Sometimes (OK, most of the time), it appears teachers are giving students busy work between tests. For instance, last night a fourth-grader came home with a little bit more homework than usual.
By the way, thanks for that as the school year is winding down and the sunlight is stretching longer.
So, part of the homework was using Roman Numerals. This fourth-grade class had to change 'regular' numbers into Roman Numerals and vice versa.
Now, I understand the multiplication and division homework. I understand the word problem homework. I understand the spelling homework.
But, Roman Numerals? What, are we going to get a re-incarnation of Julius Caesar and change back?
Really, what use is Roman Numerals anymore. Unless they need to find out how many Super Bowls there have been or you have one of those goofy, over sized clocks, there's no need for this.
Or, as we used to say in school, 'The teachers are bored at the end of the year and just want to keep everybody from looking out the window.'
How about some practical learning?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Stop the hate
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
Well, yesterday was certainly a banner day for those who live their lives to hate (and make money doing it).
No matter what he may say to those who hang on every word, Rush Limbaugh is only in it for the money. If he can make that money on the back of hate, than so be it. If he can make that money by inciting riots, then so be it. If he can make that money by twisting logic, then so be it.
By the way, doesn't he sound a lot like THIS GUY.
You know, sometimes when I turn on the radio it's still tuned to his station (thanks to listening to the Phillies game the night before). Yesterday, before I could get my hand to button to turn it off, I had to hear Limbaugh's latest rant of racist hate.
As many know by now, he called President Barack Obama and the woman he nominated for a Supreme Court post, Sonia Sotomayor, 'reverse racists.' I could picture the foam coming out of his mouth as he ranted on and on about their 'racist policies' and 'racist decisions.'
Why was he so angry? Well, Obama had the nerve to nomination not only a woman by an Hispanic woman at that.
The truth be told, though, it's Rush Limbaugh who is the racist (or at least he's using that common denominator to get ratings which means more money in his pocket). Like we needed more evidence after the whole Donovan McNabb fiasco on national TV a few years ago.
He's a blanket racist and would only be happy if white men ran the world. Just like those who put confederate flags on their pick up trucks, they try to couch it with fake excuses, but it only smells like one thing.
Remember, hate only gets you so far.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, yesterday was certainly a banner day for those who live their lives to hate (and make money doing it).
No matter what he may say to those who hang on every word, Rush Limbaugh is only in it for the money. If he can make that money on the back of hate, than so be it. If he can make that money by inciting riots, then so be it. If he can make that money by twisting logic, then so be it.
By the way, doesn't he sound a lot like THIS GUY.
You know, sometimes when I turn on the radio it's still tuned to his station (thanks to listening to the Phillies game the night before). Yesterday, before I could get my hand to button to turn it off, I had to hear Limbaugh's latest rant of racist hate.
As many know by now, he called President Barack Obama and the woman he nominated for a Supreme Court post, Sonia Sotomayor, 'reverse racists.' I could picture the foam coming out of his mouth as he ranted on and on about their 'racist policies' and 'racist decisions.'
Why was he so angry? Well, Obama had the nerve to nomination not only a woman by an Hispanic woman at that.
The truth be told, though, it's Rush Limbaugh who is the racist (or at least he's using that common denominator to get ratings which means more money in his pocket). Like we needed more evidence after the whole Donovan McNabb fiasco on national TV a few years ago.
He's a blanket racist and would only be happy if white men ran the world. Just like those who put confederate flags on their pick up trucks, they try to couch it with fake excuses, but it only smells like one thing.
Remember, hate only gets you so far.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Rise and Shine --- A decade later
Good Morning and welcome to the day after!
It certainly appears children are growing older quicker these days. Thanks to the pressures of school and the world in general a, say, 10-year old can't always act like a 10-year old.
That is, a 10-year old is still just a child, whether he wants to believe it or not. Sure, there are changes they go through. The world is starting to look a little different. There seems to be a place in the world for the 10-year old that wasn't there when he was 5, 6 or even 9-years old.
Just imagine the changes, though.
Let's say a bright-eyed boy was born 10 years ago. He came into a simpler world with a smile on his face. His family waited and waited and waited (well, waited some more) before finally announcing his arrival. As an aside, how Mom was able to endure those 36 hours is still a miracle.
Still, he came into a world without the Internet, without DVDs, without iPods.
Now, he's growing up. It's fun to see the young man he's becoming, but it's also sad to see the young boy he's leaving behind.
He's still fun to be around (well, those times when he doesn't have teenager attitude). Hey, he'll even still give a hug once in a while.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
It certainly appears children are growing older quicker these days. Thanks to the pressures of school and the world in general a, say, 10-year old can't always act like a 10-year old.
That is, a 10-year old is still just a child, whether he wants to believe it or not. Sure, there are changes they go through. The world is starting to look a little different. There seems to be a place in the world for the 10-year old that wasn't there when he was 5, 6 or even 9-years old.
Just imagine the changes, though.
Let's say a bright-eyed boy was born 10 years ago. He came into a simpler world with a smile on his face. His family waited and waited and waited (well, waited some more) before finally announcing his arrival. As an aside, how Mom was able to endure those 36 hours is still a miracle.
Still, he came into a world without the Internet, without DVDs, without iPods.
Now, he's growing up. It's fun to see the young man he's becoming, but it's also sad to see the young boy he's leaving behind.
He's still fun to be around (well, those times when he doesn't have teenager attitude). Hey, he'll even still give a hug once in a while.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, May 25, 2009
Rise and Shine --- A holiday weekend
Good Morning and welcome to Memorial Day!
Memorial Day was always one of the best holidays as a child, because it meant a day off a couple of weeks before school was done for the summer. It was like an extra taste of vacation. After Memorial Day, school was like a blur. Most of the teachers were ready to get out, all the students were ready to get out and there wasn't much work getting done.
I know it's the same seeing the same time of year through other young eyes.
Of course, with the extra-long weekend and the heat, that meant it was time for some water sports. So, a newly-minted 7-year old enlisted his 4-year old sister to scout the garage for the pool.
It was pulled out early Sunday morning and sat on the driveway. After putting it off as long as possible, I spent the next couple of hours (or four inning of the Phillies/Yankees game) blowing the thing up with a bike pump.
So, by mid-afternoon the pool was blown up and water was slowing flowing in. A little while later (it seemed like 10 minutes to me, but about 10 hours to the 7- and 4-year old), the pool was ready to go.
Bathing suits were on, boats were at the ready, beach balls were round and bouncy.
So, the mad dash to the pool began and ended with a splash.
Then....
Silence.
Then...
AHHHH, it's too cold. It's too cold. AHHHH.
Good thing I had the bike pump and didn't blow the whole thing up by mouth.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Memorial Day was always one of the best holidays as a child, because it meant a day off a couple of weeks before school was done for the summer. It was like an extra taste of vacation. After Memorial Day, school was like a blur. Most of the teachers were ready to get out, all the students were ready to get out and there wasn't much work getting done.
I know it's the same seeing the same time of year through other young eyes.
Of course, with the extra-long weekend and the heat, that meant it was time for some water sports. So, a newly-minted 7-year old enlisted his 4-year old sister to scout the garage for the pool.
It was pulled out early Sunday morning and sat on the driveway. After putting it off as long as possible, I spent the next couple of hours (or four inning of the Phillies/Yankees game) blowing the thing up with a bike pump.
So, by mid-afternoon the pool was blown up and water was slowing flowing in. A little while later (it seemed like 10 minutes to me, but about 10 hours to the 7- and 4-year old), the pool was ready to go.
Bathing suits were on, boats were at the ready, beach balls were round and bouncy.
So, the mad dash to the pool began and ended with a splash.
Then....
Silence.
Then...
AHHHH, it's too cold. It's too cold. AHHHH.
Good thing I had the bike pump and didn't blow the whole thing up by mouth.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 22, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Ramblin' on
Good Morning and welcome to what, for many, is an extra-long weekend!
Is anybody really surprised gas prices are going back up as summer nears. Do fuel companies really think we are that stupid. Sure, we'll be forced to pay the prices, but, come on, at least admit the gouging. It's not like it doesn't happen anywhere else. Rental prices down the shore double from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We know it's going to happen. Nobody pretends it's anything else but trying to make the most money when people really need the break. Heck, even the price of pizza goes up on the weekends (and Friday's during Lent).
Send your letters here: Sunoco CEO Lynn Elsenhans, Sunoco Inc., 1735 Market Street, Suite LL, Philadelphia, PA 19103-7583; Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, Exxon Mobil Corp., 5959 Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039-2298.
Meanwhile, does anybody really care about these American Idol winners and their whining. Really, have any of these people done anything remotely listenable since they've been crowned? For some reason, there were 100 million votes cast during this week's finale. That's just ridiculous.
Finally, is there a dumber person in American than this banana bandit?. Sorry, I forgot
Here's something to get you through the weekend:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Is anybody really surprised gas prices are going back up as summer nears. Do fuel companies really think we are that stupid. Sure, we'll be forced to pay the prices, but, come on, at least admit the gouging. It's not like it doesn't happen anywhere else. Rental prices down the shore double from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We know it's going to happen. Nobody pretends it's anything else but trying to make the most money when people really need the break. Heck, even the price of pizza goes up on the weekends (and Friday's during Lent).
Send your letters here: Sunoco CEO Lynn Elsenhans, Sunoco Inc., 1735 Market Street, Suite LL, Philadelphia, PA 19103-7583; Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, Exxon Mobil Corp., 5959 Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039-2298.
Meanwhile, does anybody really care about these American Idol winners and their whining. Really, have any of these people done anything remotely listenable since they've been crowned? For some reason, there were 100 million votes cast during this week's finale. That's just ridiculous.
Finally, is there a dumber person in American than this banana bandit?. Sorry, I forgot
Here's something to get you through the weekend:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The power of the yell
Good Morning and welcome to what could prove to be one fabulous day!
Somebody once paraphrased baseball legend Cal Ripken in saying parents shouldn't overly cheer for their children in an athletic event because it puts too much pressure on them.
I'm here to say that's hogwash. Sure, there is going over the lines. I was there way back in the giddy '90s when a wrestling parent ran down from the stands to confront his son's opponent on the mat. I was also there when he was convicted, forced to spend weekends in jail and seek out anger management.
I've seen parents get so disgusted with coaching/officials/other parents that they go over the top. They start yelling at the coach/official/other parent and stop enjoying the game. It's embarrassing to the child and those sitting near the loudmouth.
Most of the time, though, the cheering is great. Take for instance Wednesday night.
Now, having to sit through five baseball games where this team barely could get an out and was losing games 30-5, 20-2 and 18-0 was pretty bad. Seeing the players just totally lose interest was worse.
That all changed Wednesday night. On this night, a superfan was able to take in the game and got the players excited with her wild cheering. Now, these are pre-teen boys who, truth be told, act more like teenagers than we did as teenagers. It's all about attitude and such.
The Superfan, though, helped them enjoy the game. They were cheering for each other. Helping each other. Hitting the ball. Getting outs.
The result was a highly-entertaining 12-4 victory. Now, the team may not win every game, but maybe now they know how to have a little fun.
Thanks Superfan, keep cheering.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Somebody once paraphrased baseball legend Cal Ripken in saying parents shouldn't overly cheer for their children in an athletic event because it puts too much pressure on them.
I'm here to say that's hogwash. Sure, there is going over the lines. I was there way back in the giddy '90s when a wrestling parent ran down from the stands to confront his son's opponent on the mat. I was also there when he was convicted, forced to spend weekends in jail and seek out anger management.
I've seen parents get so disgusted with coaching/officials/other parents that they go over the top. They start yelling at the coach/official/other parent and stop enjoying the game. It's embarrassing to the child and those sitting near the loudmouth.
Most of the time, though, the cheering is great. Take for instance Wednesday night.
Now, having to sit through five baseball games where this team barely could get an out and was losing games 30-5, 20-2 and 18-0 was pretty bad. Seeing the players just totally lose interest was worse.
That all changed Wednesday night. On this night, a superfan was able to take in the game and got the players excited with her wild cheering. Now, these are pre-teen boys who, truth be told, act more like teenagers than we did as teenagers. It's all about attitude and such.
The Superfan, though, helped them enjoy the game. They were cheering for each other. Helping each other. Hitting the ball. Getting outs.
The result was a highly-entertaining 12-4 victory. Now, the team may not win every game, but maybe now they know how to have a little fun.
Thanks Superfan, keep cheering.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Rise and Shine --- What's in a book?
Good Morning and welcome to the election hangover day!
Yesterday's primary election day was a little bit different than the one last November. There were no lines yesterday. There were no FOX reports of fights. There was very little rhetoric. Of course, there were very few voters as well. Hey, at least the poll workers could get caught up on some reading.
Being a day late and a dollar short, here's a list of some light election reading to get you ready for the next one (don't worry what the book is actually about, just go by the titles):
ANGELS AND DEMONS: The Dan Brown bestseller (now another movie) would fit right in on election days. Just who are the Angels and Demons now that George Bush isn't around any more.
DEAD AND GONE, by Charlaine Harris: Speaking of George Bush...
LIBERTY AND TYRANNY, by Mark R. Levin: Once again, see above.
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith: What better way can you say 'Beach Book.'
ODD HOURS, by Dean Koontz: Welcome to my world.
THE G-FREE DIET, by Elisabeth Hasselbeck: Well, it now appears anybody can get a book deal.
On that note, get ready to pick up these soon-to-be bestsellers (or just download them to your iPhone):
'Running in Sand' by Pat Burrell
'How to Clean Needles' by Roger Clemens (forward by Alex Rodriguez)
'Unlistenable Music' by Steve Perry
'How to Pull the Wool over America's Eyes' by Sean Hannity
Then again, this might have been the beginning of the end for reading:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Yesterday's primary election day was a little bit different than the one last November. There were no lines yesterday. There were no FOX reports of fights. There was very little rhetoric. Of course, there were very few voters as well. Hey, at least the poll workers could get caught up on some reading.
Being a day late and a dollar short, here's a list of some light election reading to get you ready for the next one (don't worry what the book is actually about, just go by the titles):
ANGELS AND DEMONS: The Dan Brown bestseller (now another movie) would fit right in on election days. Just who are the Angels and Demons now that George Bush isn't around any more.
DEAD AND GONE, by Charlaine Harris: Speaking of George Bush...
LIBERTY AND TYRANNY, by Mark R. Levin: Once again, see above.
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith: What better way can you say 'Beach Book.'
ODD HOURS, by Dean Koontz: Welcome to my world.
THE G-FREE DIET, by Elisabeth Hasselbeck: Well, it now appears anybody can get a book deal.
On that note, get ready to pick up these soon-to-be bestsellers (or just download them to your iPhone):
'Running in Sand' by Pat Burrell
'How to Clean Needles' by Roger Clemens (forward by Alex Rodriguez)
'Unlistenable Music' by Steve Perry
'How to Pull the Wool over America's Eyes' by Sean Hannity
Then again, this might have been the beginning of the end for reading:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Rise and Shine --- If only...
Good Morning and welcome back to October?!?
Over the past couple of weeks we've had the season finales (and series finales) on television. For the most part, fans are left with old-fashioned cliffhangers (Lost, 24, etc.) to keep you coming back next season.
Now, if only the rest of the world could work like that.
Let's see, we can take a few months off from work starting at the end of May. Just do enough to keep the bosses wanting more in September. Of course, try it and you'll have more time off than just the summer (unless you're a teacher).
Then again, if we lived in a television world, there would be so many more problems.
For instance, the government actually can get things done in 24 hours. The police solve a murder/robbery/rape/mystery in an hour. You would be able to travel through time, space and walls.
Everything would be justifiable, because you could write it that way.
Then again, where would all the fun come from.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Over the past couple of weeks we've had the season finales (and series finales) on television. For the most part, fans are left with old-fashioned cliffhangers (Lost, 24, etc.) to keep you coming back next season.
Now, if only the rest of the world could work like that.
Let's see, we can take a few months off from work starting at the end of May. Just do enough to keep the bosses wanting more in September. Of course, try it and you'll have more time off than just the summer (unless you're a teacher).
Then again, if we lived in a television world, there would be so many more problems.
For instance, the government actually can get things done in 24 hours. The police solve a murder/robbery/rape/mystery in an hour. You would be able to travel through time, space and walls.
Everything would be justifiable, because you could write it that way.
Then again, where would all the fun come from.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, May 18, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Moving ahead
Good Morning and welcome to a new week!
Here's a tale of two baseball players and a dancer:
After a long day of running here to there Saturday afternoon, it was time for a bit of a break. That break came in the form of a baseball game.
Now, when there are rescheduled games in a youth baseball league, there are bound to be some players who can't attend the game. So, that left one team short a player Saturday afternoon.
After some imaginative persuasion, the team was able to get that ninth player (who is about a year or two younger than the rest, but enjoys any athletic endeavor) to man centerfield.
The team even had a cheerleader in the form of a ballet dancer watching from behind a fence. Of course, the cheerleader didn't really care about the game, she was just dancing. And dancing. And dancing.
Well, the game continues and the centerfielder starts to get bored. There's just not enough action, so he creates his own action. Rotating his glove and hat. Throwing grass up in the air. Watching butterflies.
Meanwhile, his older brother is trying to keep his focus while playing catcher. The thing is, he can see the centerfielder kneeling down. Throwing the glove. Wearing it on his head.
OK, so it's not exactly the major leagues. At least win or lose, though, they have a cheering section.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Here's a tale of two baseball players and a dancer:
After a long day of running here to there Saturday afternoon, it was time for a bit of a break. That break came in the form of a baseball game.
Now, when there are rescheduled games in a youth baseball league, there are bound to be some players who can't attend the game. So, that left one team short a player Saturday afternoon.
After some imaginative persuasion, the team was able to get that ninth player (who is about a year or two younger than the rest, but enjoys any athletic endeavor) to man centerfield.
The team even had a cheerleader in the form of a ballet dancer watching from behind a fence. Of course, the cheerleader didn't really care about the game, she was just dancing. And dancing. And dancing.
Well, the game continues and the centerfielder starts to get bored. There's just not enough action, so he creates his own action. Rotating his glove and hat. Throwing grass up in the air. Watching butterflies.
Meanwhile, his older brother is trying to keep his focus while playing catcher. The thing is, he can see the centerfielder kneeling down. Throwing the glove. Wearing it on his head.
OK, so it's not exactly the major leagues. At least win or lose, though, they have a cheering section.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 15, 2009
Rise and Shine --- We've lost something
Good Morning and welcome to what could be another action-packed weekend!
Way back in the day (again, talking about the heady 1970s), I had one of those grade-school projects where you were tasked to ask questions of an older person.
Well, the oldest person I knew was my grandfather (although, looking back now he wasn't that old). So, I dutifully took my copy book over to his house one day and asked my series of questions.
From what I can remember (getting old myself), they were pretty innocuous. Things like: What's the biggest thing you like about this time? (It's easier to get around) What don't you like? (People don't appreciate what they have)Who is the best Phillies player you ever saw? (Mike Schmidt)
Well, he died a few years ago, but, every once in a while, I wonder what he would say about our time.
Short of calling together a seance (too busy and it's a scam anyway), I have to imagine what the answers would be now.
I think his greatest lament would be the lack of courtesy people have these days.
For many, you can walk into the office every day, say 'Good Morning' (or afternoon or evening) and get no response. Some people don't even look up from their desk. Others may give a grunt.
Go out to a store and everybody is pushing. They need to get that orange RIGHT NOW. Or they need to get past you THIS MOMENT.
Then get in the car to drive home and, if somebody isn't driving right up on your bumper, they are trying to speed past you. Damn the rest of the people in the road, I need to get where I'm going or the WORLD IS GOING TO END.
So, while Mike Schmidt might be the greatest Phillie of all time and we have even easier ways to get around, we've lost something.
We need to get it back. We need to start slow. Say 'Thank You' to the toll collector. Take a different orange. Lay off the horn.
Then again, maybe I need a Ouija board because we have too much time for this:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Way back in the day (again, talking about the heady 1970s), I had one of those grade-school projects where you were tasked to ask questions of an older person.
Well, the oldest person I knew was my grandfather (although, looking back now he wasn't that old). So, I dutifully took my copy book over to his house one day and asked my series of questions.
From what I can remember (getting old myself), they were pretty innocuous. Things like: What's the biggest thing you like about this time? (It's easier to get around) What don't you like? (People don't appreciate what they have)Who is the best Phillies player you ever saw? (Mike Schmidt)
Well, he died a few years ago, but, every once in a while, I wonder what he would say about our time.
Short of calling together a seance (too busy and it's a scam anyway), I have to imagine what the answers would be now.
I think his greatest lament would be the lack of courtesy people have these days.
For many, you can walk into the office every day, say 'Good Morning' (or afternoon or evening) and get no response. Some people don't even look up from their desk. Others may give a grunt.
Go out to a store and everybody is pushing. They need to get that orange RIGHT NOW. Or they need to get past you THIS MOMENT.
Then get in the car to drive home and, if somebody isn't driving right up on your bumper, they are trying to speed past you. Damn the rest of the people in the road, I need to get where I'm going or the WORLD IS GOING TO END.
So, while Mike Schmidt might be the greatest Phillie of all time and we have even easier ways to get around, we've lost something.
We need to get it back. We need to start slow. Say 'Thank You' to the toll collector. Take a different orange. Lay off the horn.
Then again, maybe I need a Ouija board because we have too much time for this:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Late-night diamonds
Good Morning and welcome to the day you need to find the umbrella again!
Look, I'm as happy as anybody the week of rain is over. Those grey days just seem to bring you down. When there are, what, 19 in a row, well, it's hard to keep a positive outlook.
This week, though, has been perfect. The best thing is the start of our youth baseball season. Now, I know some leagues have been playing (and practicing) for a month, but our league is a little more laid back and is all about fun.
With two boys in different leagues, though, the fun begins. It's all about balancing out the schedule, running between games, watching, yelling and the nearest playground (that's for the princess).
Now, the almost 10-year old is in a playing in a league for the first time where the children pitch (it was coach-pitch last season) and they play more-or-less by 'regular' rules. So, we have to get used to three strikes and the intricacies of an umpire.
While Wednesday night's game went relatively smoothly (well, except for those two ground ball home runs by the opposing team), Monday was an experience.
The umpire, in the first game of the season (thanks rain), appeared to be calling balls and strikes like it was the seventh game of the World Series. After about the 100th walk of the night, and three hours into the game, it was finally finished.
After all that, though, there were smiles on the faces of all the players. At least it's all about having fun.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Look, I'm as happy as anybody the week of rain is over. Those grey days just seem to bring you down. When there are, what, 19 in a row, well, it's hard to keep a positive outlook.
This week, though, has been perfect. The best thing is the start of our youth baseball season. Now, I know some leagues have been playing (and practicing) for a month, but our league is a little more laid back and is all about fun.
With two boys in different leagues, though, the fun begins. It's all about balancing out the schedule, running between games, watching, yelling and the nearest playground (that's for the princess).
Now, the almost 10-year old is in a playing in a league for the first time where the children pitch (it was coach-pitch last season) and they play more-or-less by 'regular' rules. So, we have to get used to three strikes and the intricacies of an umpire.
While Wednesday night's game went relatively smoothly (well, except for those two ground ball home runs by the opposing team), Monday was an experience.
The umpire, in the first game of the season (thanks rain), appeared to be calling balls and strikes like it was the seventh game of the World Series. After about the 100th walk of the night, and three hours into the game, it was finally finished.
After all that, though, there were smiles on the faces of all the players. At least it's all about having fun.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Lucky day
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
A lot of people think the Number 13 is unlucky. I'm here to tell you it is lucky.
To illustrate how lucky 13 is, I give you a story about a little boy.
Way back in 2002, when we were all giddy with a good economy and nice job outlook, Brendan came into this world on May 13.
Now, there are a lot of births every day. This though, is not a story about them.
Two years later, after delighting his parents with smiles, yelps and yells, Brendan decided danger was his middle name.
So, on the occasion of a nice spring day, much like the one outside our windows today, Brendan climbed on the arm of a couch and stood up.
Now, many children do this every day. They experiment. They like to climb. They like to feel better.
Brendan, though, had a plan. After getting his father's attention, he quickly dove off the arm of the couch and (CONK) went head-first into the hardwood floor. Now, his father, being a father, ran over to Brendan, who was starting to cry just a little bit. Luckily, there was no blood, just a little bump.
OK, everything is fine. Now, let's not do that again.
Which, of course, was an invitation for Brendan to climb on the arm of the couch and prepare for dive No. 2. This time, though, his father caught him in midair, which made Brendan very mad. Hey, flying is fun. Danger is fun. Can I get out on the roof.
No, Brendan, you can't get on the roof, but thank you for making every day interesting. Thank you for being the free spirit we wish we all could be.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
A lot of people think the Number 13 is unlucky. I'm here to tell you it is lucky.
To illustrate how lucky 13 is, I give you a story about a little boy.
Way back in 2002, when we were all giddy with a good economy and nice job outlook, Brendan came into this world on May 13.
Now, there are a lot of births every day. This though, is not a story about them.
Two years later, after delighting his parents with smiles, yelps and yells, Brendan decided danger was his middle name.
So, on the occasion of a nice spring day, much like the one outside our windows today, Brendan climbed on the arm of a couch and stood up.
Now, many children do this every day. They experiment. They like to climb. They like to feel better.
Brendan, though, had a plan. After getting his father's attention, he quickly dove off the arm of the couch and (CONK) went head-first into the hardwood floor. Now, his father, being a father, ran over to Brendan, who was starting to cry just a little bit. Luckily, there was no blood, just a little bump.
OK, everything is fine. Now, let's not do that again.
Which, of course, was an invitation for Brendan to climb on the arm of the couch and prepare for dive No. 2. This time, though, his father caught him in midair, which made Brendan very mad. Hey, flying is fun. Danger is fun. Can I get out on the roof.
No, Brendan, you can't get on the roof, but thank you for making every day interesting. Thank you for being the free spirit we wish we all could be.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Another headache
Good Morning and welcome back!
So, the news out there today is the increase in gas prices. Let's count down the reasons:
1. We are two weeks before Memorial Day;
2. We have started driving more after prices went down;
3. The oil companies never make enough profits.
Yep, that about counts down the reasons. It all comes down to greed on the part of the oil companies. The more we drive, the more times they can hop on the private airplanes.
Here's an idea: Let's stop driving. Let's pretend gas is back near the $4 mark. Let the oil companies know how you feel by not buying. Yeah, it might be an emotional jump, but so what.
When the price of gas can go up a dime overnight, there's something going on and it isn't good.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, the news out there today is the increase in gas prices. Let's count down the reasons:
1. We are two weeks before Memorial Day;
2. We have started driving more after prices went down;
3. The oil companies never make enough profits.
Yep, that about counts down the reasons. It all comes down to greed on the part of the oil companies. The more we drive, the more times they can hop on the private airplanes.
Here's an idea: Let's stop driving. Let's pretend gas is back near the $4 mark. Let the oil companies know how you feel by not buying. Yeah, it might be an emotional jump, but so what.
When the price of gas can go up a dime overnight, there's something going on and it isn't good.
AAA Gas Saving Tips - watch more funny videos
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, May 11, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Making a walk
Good Morning and welcome to another new week!
Well, the rain has gone away and left us with some pretty nice weather. Sure, the wind Sunday could be a bit much, but it's better than grey skies.
Meanwhile, I realized Sunday I am one of the lucky ones. In subbing for the injured, I took part in the 5k Race for the Cure Sunday morning. Now, when there are so many people packed into one place it can be a little overwhelming. Eakins Oval outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art was packed. There were walkers (and runners) of all ages milling around, talking and laughing.
Then you see a pink 'survivor' race number. Then another. Then hundreds more and you realize how the lucky stars have smiled upon you. I haven't had a family member (or friend) touched by breast cancer. Still, when you see the huge number who have, you realize you have been touched.
Everybody you walk past in the mall or speed past on the road could be putting up the fight for their lives. Then you realize you haven't really thought about it and probably should.
Really, if we are all brothers and sisters on this crazy thing we call earth, we should all become involved in each other. Your fight is our fight.
So, I dragged a 9-year old boy out of bed at 5 a.m. Sunday morning and drove down to the Center City. At first, he didn't realize what was going on, after all it was very early and very cold. He took great joy in hitting the sponsor tents and filling bags. In the end, though, I think he was impressed with the number of people. He asked questions about the pink bibs. He asked about the ceremonies.
Maybe it all sinks in, maybe it doesn't, but we walked the whole three miles. We talked. We joked. We want to help.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, the rain has gone away and left us with some pretty nice weather. Sure, the wind Sunday could be a bit much, but it's better than grey skies.
Meanwhile, I realized Sunday I am one of the lucky ones. In subbing for the injured, I took part in the 5k Race for the Cure Sunday morning. Now, when there are so many people packed into one place it can be a little overwhelming. Eakins Oval outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art was packed. There were walkers (and runners) of all ages milling around, talking and laughing.
Then you see a pink 'survivor' race number. Then another. Then hundreds more and you realize how the lucky stars have smiled upon you. I haven't had a family member (or friend) touched by breast cancer. Still, when you see the huge number who have, you realize you have been touched.
Everybody you walk past in the mall or speed past on the road could be putting up the fight for their lives. Then you realize you haven't really thought about it and probably should.
Really, if we are all brothers and sisters on this crazy thing we call earth, we should all become involved in each other. Your fight is our fight.
So, I dragged a 9-year old boy out of bed at 5 a.m. Sunday morning and drove down to the Center City. At first, he didn't realize what was going on, after all it was very early and very cold. He took great joy in hitting the sponsor tents and filling bags. In the end, though, I think he was impressed with the number of people. He asked questions about the pink bibs. He asked about the ceremonies.
Maybe it all sinks in, maybe it doesn't, but we walked the whole three miles. We talked. We joked. We want to help.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 8, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Drugs and donkeys
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the wet week!
First a big shout out for Mother's Day. Sure, we take advantage of the mother's in our lives, but only because they are so kind.
You have to hand it to the Chichester School District for stepping up and canceling the donkey basketball game that was scheduled for May 16.
Sure, many will role their eyes and say things like, 'They've been doing this for 100 years. It's just a bit of fun. Hey, their only donkeys.' Well, maybe we are in a more enlightened times where jumping on the back of an animal in the name of fun isn't such a good idea.
Tell you what, for those upset by the cancellation, pick up a donkey costume, let people jump on your back and play basketball. Sounds like nothing but fun.
Meanwhile, speaking of real donkeys, how about that Manny Ramirez. Here's a guy who has plenty of money. Was on the way to the Hall of Fame and was one of the most feared hitters in baseball. Still, it wasn't enough.
According to the report, he tested positive for something called human chorionic gonadotropin, which is something found in pregnant women.
Beautiful, just beautiful.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
First a big shout out for Mother's Day. Sure, we take advantage of the mother's in our lives, but only because they are so kind.
You have to hand it to the Chichester School District for stepping up and canceling the donkey basketball game that was scheduled for May 16.
Sure, many will role their eyes and say things like, 'They've been doing this for 100 years. It's just a bit of fun. Hey, their only donkeys.' Well, maybe we are in a more enlightened times where jumping on the back of an animal in the name of fun isn't such a good idea.
Tell you what, for those upset by the cancellation, pick up a donkey costume, let people jump on your back and play basketball. Sounds like nothing but fun.
Meanwhile, speaking of real donkeys, how about that Manny Ramirez. Here's a guy who has plenty of money. Was on the way to the Hall of Fame and was one of the most feared hitters in baseball. Still, it wasn't enough.
According to the report, he tested positive for something called human chorionic gonadotropin, which is something found in pregnant women.
Beautiful, just beautiful.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Rise and Shine --- For the love of air
Good Morning and what was that stuff falling from the sky?!?
Noticed a disturbing trend over the last week. No, it wasn't the rain and what it was doing to the grass (jungle) out front. It appears people are cutting down trees like they are so much trash.
I saw two perfectly nice trees come down in the last two days. Now, people can do what they want. It's their property, but what is the justification? What, you are worried about raking leaves in the fall. You don't like shade infringing on your sunbathing? You hate birds?
I'm just trying to figure out the thought process. I could understand if the tree was dying and there was a safety issue, but, if the tree is perfectly healthy, why take it down?
There are enough streets, parking lots, malls and sidewalks that take away nature. If you have space, leave the tree alone.
Then again, it could be worse:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Noticed a disturbing trend over the last week. No, it wasn't the rain and what it was doing to the grass (jungle) out front. It appears people are cutting down trees like they are so much trash.
I saw two perfectly nice trees come down in the last two days. Now, people can do what they want. It's their property, but what is the justification? What, you are worried about raking leaves in the fall. You don't like shade infringing on your sunbathing? You hate birds?
I'm just trying to figure out the thought process. I could understand if the tree was dying and there was a safety issue, but, if the tree is perfectly healthy, why take it down?
There are enough streets, parking lots, malls and sidewalks that take away nature. If you have space, leave the tree alone.
Then again, it could be worse:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Things to do in the rain
Good Morning and welcome to another Wednesday!
The good thing about Wednesday is you can almost see the end of the week, but you know there's still some work to be done. Plow through it and you'll be rewarded. Well, at least you have to have hope.
Speaking of hope, after a long winter of sitting inside, the last thing a child wants to do in April is look out the window at rain falling.
They want to get out. They want to run around. There's a little clock in their hearts that goes off once May rolls around. Enough of playing board games, we want the bikes. We want the balls. We want the Frisbees. We want the ... ice cream?
That's right, why wait for the heat of the summer, it's spring, which is close enough, so it's time for ice cream.
Now, none of that low-fat stuff. No, it has to be real ice cream. It has to be full of fat and milk and chocolate and goodness.
Since the frozen banana ice cream just won't cut it this week, it's time to head to the store.
That's where the fun begins. Now, not being a huge ice cream fan, I usually by-pass that aisle in the store. This trip, there was no stopping (after all, it was a trip primarily for ice cream).
So, the orders came in: I want mint. I want cookie dough. I want peanut butter chocolate. I want candy and ice cream and whipped cream and chocolate sauce and more candy.
So, with two small ones to help, we stopped at the ice cream aisle. I want that one and that one and that one and that one.
OK, just one. There's not enough room in the freezer (not to mention the bank account) for one of each.
With so many choices, it was information overload. It takes an adult to step in. Well, here's chocolate peanut butter and, look, there's a baseball one. It's baseball season let's get that.
NOOOO. I want the football one.
NOOOOO. Get the baseball one.
NOOOOOOOO! Football! NOOOOOOOOO. Baseball!
Executive decisions don't work when a little girl wants ice cream with little chocolate footballs inside.
Or, maybe I'm not the executive anyway. That's why we end up with too much ice cream jamming up the freezer.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
The good thing about Wednesday is you can almost see the end of the week, but you know there's still some work to be done. Plow through it and you'll be rewarded. Well, at least you have to have hope.
Speaking of hope, after a long winter of sitting inside, the last thing a child wants to do in April is look out the window at rain falling.
They want to get out. They want to run around. There's a little clock in their hearts that goes off once May rolls around. Enough of playing board games, we want the bikes. We want the balls. We want the Frisbees. We want the ... ice cream?
That's right, why wait for the heat of the summer, it's spring, which is close enough, so it's time for ice cream.
Now, none of that low-fat stuff. No, it has to be real ice cream. It has to be full of fat and milk and chocolate and goodness.
Since the frozen banana ice cream just won't cut it this week, it's time to head to the store.
That's where the fun begins. Now, not being a huge ice cream fan, I usually by-pass that aisle in the store. This trip, there was no stopping (after all, it was a trip primarily for ice cream).
So, the orders came in: I want mint. I want cookie dough. I want peanut butter chocolate. I want candy and ice cream and whipped cream and chocolate sauce and more candy.
So, with two small ones to help, we stopped at the ice cream aisle. I want that one and that one and that one and that one.
OK, just one. There's not enough room in the freezer (not to mention the bank account) for one of each.
With so many choices, it was information overload. It takes an adult to step in. Well, here's chocolate peanut butter and, look, there's a baseball one. It's baseball season let's get that.
NOOOO. I want the football one.
NOOOOO. Get the baseball one.
NOOOOOOOO! Football! NOOOOOOOOO. Baseball!
Executive decisions don't work when a little girl wants ice cream with little chocolate footballs inside.
Or, maybe I'm not the executive anyway. That's why we end up with too much ice cream jamming up the freezer.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Cinco the Slogan
Good Morning and welcome to the world of fish!
At least that's what it seems like outside again today. Woke up to a persistent drizzle and it's only supposed to get wetter the rest of the week. Just remember this in August when we are talking draught.
Not that anybody needs an excuse or anything, but it is Cinco de Mayo today. Sure, it's a celebration in Mexico commemorating their victory over the French in 1862, but it seems to have taken off in this country thanks to, well, good marketing.
So, let's raise a glass of Tequila and stay away from Taco Bell.
Anyway, caught a commercial last night for the new Star Trek movie. It is, as the ad says, 'Not your Father's Star Trek.'
Which, of course, is a take off of the famous Oldsmobile slogan.
Of course, they stopped making Oldsmobile's in 2004. What does that have to do with the new Star Trek movie? Well, probably nothing, but it gave me a chance to search for some old commercials.
Here's one that ties it all together:
By the way,
At least that's what it seems like outside again today. Woke up to a persistent drizzle and it's only supposed to get wetter the rest of the week. Just remember this in August when we are talking draught.
Not that anybody needs an excuse or anything, but it is Cinco de Mayo today. Sure, it's a celebration in Mexico commemorating their victory over the French in 1862, but it seems to have taken off in this country thanks to, well, good marketing.
So, let's raise a glass of Tequila and stay away from Taco Bell.
Anyway, caught a commercial last night for the new Star Trek movie. It is, as the ad says, 'Not your Father's Star Trek.'
Which, of course, is a take off of the famous Oldsmobile slogan.
Of course, they stopped making Oldsmobile's in 2004. What does that have to do with the new Star Trek movie? Well, probably nothing, but it gave me a chance to search for some old commercials.
Here's one that ties it all together:
By the way,
Monday, May 4, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Rain, rain go away
Good Morning and welcome to another day for ducks!
OK, now we remember the downfall of spring. After emerging from the dark, dank winter, we were treated to a great early spring. There was a lot of sun. There was warm (hot?) temperatures. There were fun times to be had outside.
Then, this weekend we got the rain. And more rain. And more rain.
It seemed like every minute of the day was saddled with cloud cover and the wet stuff. OK, it got nice late Saturday afternoon, but then it turned back into rain.
Now, there's nothing wrong with rain. When it's nasty outside, it gives you a chance to take a Sunday break. Relax. Watch a few movies (something for everybody, say, Spider-Man 2, Bedtime Stories and Aladdin) and take your time for once.
The downfall, though, is there is a jungle starting to emerge on the lawn. We all know the grass grows quicker this time of year, but, add in a few inches of water and, bang, its up to your knees.
Of course, it's raining, so you can't get out and cut it down. So, it just keeps growing. Pretty soon, you'll lose a small child in the 'trees.'
When it finally stops raining (they are hoping some time Wednesday), it will be time to get out the sickle.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
OK, now we remember the downfall of spring. After emerging from the dark, dank winter, we were treated to a great early spring. There was a lot of sun. There was warm (hot?) temperatures. There were fun times to be had outside.
Then, this weekend we got the rain. And more rain. And more rain.
It seemed like every minute of the day was saddled with cloud cover and the wet stuff. OK, it got nice late Saturday afternoon, but then it turned back into rain.
Now, there's nothing wrong with rain. When it's nasty outside, it gives you a chance to take a Sunday break. Relax. Watch a few movies (something for everybody, say, Spider-Man 2, Bedtime Stories and Aladdin) and take your time for once.
The downfall, though, is there is a jungle starting to emerge on the lawn. We all know the grass grows quicker this time of year, but, add in a few inches of water and, bang, its up to your knees.
Of course, it's raining, so you can't get out and cut it down. So, it just keeps growing. Pretty soon, you'll lose a small child in the 'trees.'
When it finally stops raining (they are hoping some time Wednesday), it will be time to get out the sickle.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 1, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Alarming
Good Morning and welcome to May!
So, it's May Day, which isn't exactly what I was thinking this morning when I looked at the clock. No, there were other words going through my mind.
It's a funny thing about that morning alarm. We hate them, curse them, want to throw them against the wall, hit the button to delay them and generally have nightmares about the loud buzz, beat, buzz. Then, when they don't go off or, through a haze of sleepiness, forget to turn them on, well, it's more of the same. We hate them, curse them and want to throw them against the wall.
The problem is, there's no time to even think about that. My alarm goes off at 4:10 a.m., usually. For the first time in a couple of years, I forgot to turn the alarm on Thursday night. So, after rolling over and seeing 3:53 blinking on the clock, I figured I had about 15 minutes before the alarm would get me up.
No sir. Forgot to put it on, so, when I looked and the clock was laughing at me with 5:13 blinking back, it was time to run. Know those nightmares about going to work without pants, well, miss the alarm and you might live it.
Somehow, I was able to shower, walk the dogs, get breakfast, get back-packs packed and get out the door by 5:30.
Miracle? Maybe. Now, if a few other would come this way.
Meanwhile, you can listen to this while sitting at home with the Swine Flu:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, it's May Day, which isn't exactly what I was thinking this morning when I looked at the clock. No, there were other words going through my mind.
It's a funny thing about that morning alarm. We hate them, curse them, want to throw them against the wall, hit the button to delay them and generally have nightmares about the loud buzz, beat, buzz. Then, when they don't go off or, through a haze of sleepiness, forget to turn them on, well, it's more of the same. We hate them, curse them and want to throw them against the wall.
The problem is, there's no time to even think about that. My alarm goes off at 4:10 a.m., usually. For the first time in a couple of years, I forgot to turn the alarm on Thursday night. So, after rolling over and seeing 3:53 blinking on the clock, I figured I had about 15 minutes before the alarm would get me up.
No sir. Forgot to put it on, so, when I looked and the clock was laughing at me with 5:13 blinking back, it was time to run. Know those nightmares about going to work without pants, well, miss the alarm and you might live it.
Somehow, I was able to shower, walk the dogs, get breakfast, get back-packs packed and get out the door by 5:30.
Miracle? Maybe. Now, if a few other would come this way.
Meanwhile, you can listen to this while sitting at home with the Swine Flu:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
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