Good Morning and is it spring yet?
There are plenty of reasons to want to skip ahead to March. All you have to do is step outside this morning and you'll be able to feel one big reason.
The cold that's settled into the area just cuts right through you. The heating bill which will take any extra money over the next few months is another.
Then there's, of all things, baseball.
Over the past four years, we've all looked forward to the baseball season starting.
This spring, though, with Tuesday's signing of free-agent pitcher Cliff Lee, the enthusiasm is going to be through the roof.
It wasn't so long ago that players like Lee wouldn't have even looked the Phillies' way. They were a moribund program that was more known for losing many, many games than winning.
The best thing is, we can dream about some exciting baseball in the near future.
It certainly beats worrying about the cold.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Blades of Glory?
Good Morning and don't walk outside today unless you have no choice!
Back in the day (I like using that line since it makes you seem a little more stately), I remember ice skating as a fun time. My parents used to take us (what seemed like) every weekend to a local rink. We'd have some fun. We'd get some exercise. We learned how to cheat the vending machines.
Over the years, the trips to the skating rink became fewer and fewer. Finally, they stopped all together.
I always told the little ones we would try it sometime. It's one of those things that just faded into the background.
While taking a day trip to New York City, we, of course, had to check out the tree at Rockefeller Center. Underneath is the famous skating rink. It wasn't too crowded, but it was too expensive (would have cost about $100 for an hour). So, much to the chagrin of a 5-year old whose eyes widened at the sight of the ice, we walked away.
Then, we stumbled upon another ice rink a few blocks away. This one was free (if you had skates, renting them was just 10 bucks).
So, here was the time. I put on the skates. Helped the little ones and, remembering my youth, jumped feet first onto the ice.
Then, promptly landed butt first on the ice. A laugh later, everybody was on the ice. Sure, we hung on to the wall more than actually skating. Sure, we watched as people glided as effortlessly as walking.
Then, my hand was grabbed by the 5-year old.
"Thanks Daddy," she screamed, "this is great."
It's really the only Christmas gift I need.
Back in the day (I like using that line since it makes you seem a little more stately), I remember ice skating as a fun time. My parents used to take us (what seemed like) every weekend to a local rink. We'd have some fun. We'd get some exercise. We learned how to cheat the vending machines.
Over the years, the trips to the skating rink became fewer and fewer. Finally, they stopped all together.
I always told the little ones we would try it sometime. It's one of those things that just faded into the background.
While taking a day trip to New York City, we, of course, had to check out the tree at Rockefeller Center. Underneath is the famous skating rink. It wasn't too crowded, but it was too expensive (would have cost about $100 for an hour). So, much to the chagrin of a 5-year old whose eyes widened at the sight of the ice, we walked away.
Then, we stumbled upon another ice rink a few blocks away. This one was free (if you had skates, renting them was just 10 bucks).
So, here was the time. I put on the skates. Helped the little ones and, remembering my youth, jumped feet first onto the ice.
Then, promptly landed butt first on the ice. A laugh later, everybody was on the ice. Sure, we hung on to the wall more than actually skating. Sure, we watched as people glided as effortlessly as walking.
Then, my hand was grabbed by the 5-year old.
"Thanks Daddy," she screamed, "this is great."
It's really the only Christmas gift I need.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Rise and Shine -- Whistling in the cold
Good Morning and welcome to the bubble!
You know, the Upper Darby School District gets a bad rap about things. That city of a high school that sits on Lansdowne Avenue is one good one. It should have been addressed years ago, but, like most things, money got in the way.
One thing the school district has going for it is the music program. In a day and age when when school districts are taking the knife to music and art programs, it's to Upper Darby's credit the music has continued to flow.
The last two Wednesday nights I had the pleasure to attend concerts at Drexel Hill Middle School. Last week was the chorus, this week was the orchestra.
To listen to middle schoolers play their violins, cellos, flutes is impressive. Knowing the time the teachers and students put into practice only makes it more impressive.
I am lucky enough to have a reason to attend these concerts. There will be a few in the elementary school coming up as well.
I just wanted to thank the district for holding firm and keeping the music alive.
You know, the Upper Darby School District gets a bad rap about things. That city of a high school that sits on Lansdowne Avenue is one good one. It should have been addressed years ago, but, like most things, money got in the way.
One thing the school district has going for it is the music program. In a day and age when when school districts are taking the knife to music and art programs, it's to Upper Darby's credit the music has continued to flow.
The last two Wednesday nights I had the pleasure to attend concerts at Drexel Hill Middle School. Last week was the chorus, this week was the orchestra.
To listen to middle schoolers play their violins, cellos, flutes is impressive. Knowing the time the teachers and students put into practice only makes it more impressive.
I am lucky enough to have a reason to attend these concerts. There will be a few in the elementary school coming up as well.
I just wanted to thank the district for holding firm and keeping the music alive.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Rise and Shine --- December 8
Good Morning and stay under those covers!
You know, I really didn't know much about John Lennon until Dec. 8, 1980. Since then, I've come to believe he was a visionary. Much more than a musician, Lennon became the voice for those who couldn't (or wouldn't) speak up.
Now, 30 years after he was gunned down on a New York street, the music and the message remains.
You know, I really didn't know much about John Lennon until Dec. 8, 1980. Since then, I've come to believe he was a visionary. Much more than a musician, Lennon became the voice for those who couldn't (or wouldn't) speak up.
Now, 30 years after he was gunned down on a New York street, the music and the message remains.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Baby, it's cold outside
Good Morning and welcome to a warm cup of tea for your computer screen!
Anybody who's walked outside yet this morning (or yesterday morning or the day before) has noticed the decided chill that has dropped upon us.
I hadn't realized Pennsylvania had been annexed by Canada, but, at least we'll have better beer.
Beyond that, why do we have to have such extremes? During the summer, we practically melted from the heat, then, without much transition, the bitter cold was upon us.
I understand it's the Northeast and we have to get used to the cold, but I for one wouldn't mind if these bitter numbers waited until February.
Anyway, while going through the Internet yesterday, I stumbled upon an article entitled "10 things I love about winter.
While they are all good, sometimes I think things we love about winter become overshadowed by what we hate.
So, as a balance, I give you things to hate about winter:
1. The price of heat. Sure, we need to keep
warm, but be it oil or gas, the price keeps climbing and climbing. It might not be as high as three years ago, but we are approaching that point. It's kind of tough to budget in $300 a month just so you can have some hot water.
2. Snow. Snow. Snow. It looks pretty coming
down. There seems to be a sense of calmness while snow piles up on the trees and grass. Then comes the part we all hate: getting out that shovel. Not one person out there can claim to like shoveling. It's something we have to do. We do it while everybody else is sledding and making snowpeople. Why is it always heavy?
4. Getting up on a cold morning. OK, so
you've spent the money for the heat. You've added extra blankets to the bed. You've settled down for a long winter's nap, when, what do you ears do you hear, but the incessant buzzing of the stupid alarm. Buzz. Buzz. Buzz. OK, OK, I'll get up, but it's so warm and comfy under these covers. Every morning is the same. By the way, it's worse when you have to get up before the sun.
5. Warm weather vacations. Face it, the
closest most of us will get to a beach this winter is when watching Hawaii-50. We are paying all the bills, getting through the holidays then spending the rest to make sure nobody has to wear their winter coats inside. Vacations? Warm destination? Only when I close my eyes.
Well, there's five. Have to go out and find the shovel now.
Anybody who's walked outside yet this morning (or yesterday morning or the day before) has noticed the decided chill that has dropped upon us.
I hadn't realized Pennsylvania had been annexed by Canada, but, at least we'll have better beer.
Beyond that, why do we have to have such extremes? During the summer, we practically melted from the heat, then, without much transition, the bitter cold was upon us.
I understand it's the Northeast and we have to get used to the cold, but I for one wouldn't mind if these bitter numbers waited until February.
Anyway, while going through the Internet yesterday, I stumbled upon an article entitled "10 things I love about winter.
While they are all good, sometimes I think things we love about winter become overshadowed by what we hate.
So, as a balance, I give you things to hate about winter:
1. The price of heat. Sure, we need to keep
warm, but be it oil or gas, the price keeps climbing and climbing. It might not be as high as three years ago, but we are approaching that point. It's kind of tough to budget in $300 a month just so you can have some hot water.2. Snow. Snow. Snow. It looks pretty coming
down. There seems to be a sense of calmness while snow piles up on the trees and grass. Then comes the part we all hate: getting out that shovel. Not one person out there can claim to like shoveling. It's something we have to do. We do it while everybody else is sledding and making snowpeople. Why is it always heavy?4. Getting up on a cold morning. OK, so
you've spent the money for the heat. You've added extra blankets to the bed. You've settled down for a long winter's nap, when, what do you ears do you hear, but the incessant buzzing of the stupid alarm. Buzz. Buzz. Buzz. OK, OK, I'll get up, but it's so warm and comfy under these covers. Every morning is the same. By the way, it's worse when you have to get up before the sun.5. Warm weather vacations. Face it, the
closest most of us will get to a beach this winter is when watching Hawaii-50. We are paying all the bills, getting through the holidays then spending the rest to make sure nobody has to wear their winter coats inside. Vacations? Warm destination? Only when I close my eyes.Well, there's five. Have to go out and find the shovel now.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Rise and Shine --- The Tree Scam
Good Morning and welcome back to the only place you can keep warm without spending any money!
So, this was the weekend to head out and find a Christmas tree. The last few years, that meant picking out a place, looking at the trees and picking one out. It was one place, one tree, everybody was happy.
This year, I decided do do a little shopping around and, boy, that might have been a mistake.
First of all, how anybody can ask $80 for a cut tree is beyond me (then again, I'm sure prices in New York would make that look cheap). So, once the $80 price tag was seen, we played a little game to find a bigger tree for a better price.
Of course, my entourage just wanted to get out of the cold (and get a tree in the house), so the game was mostly in my head.
The thing was, prices didn't come down much from that $80. Sure, there are always some with a $30 price tag, but they would even make Charlie Brown blush.
Then again, it's amazing $30 isn't enough to get a tree. Anyway, after a lot of Saturday was spent driving from tree place to tree place, it became obvious there could only be one stop Sunday.
So, we settled on a $40 tree, got it into the house and will decorate next weekend.
Sometimes, though, shopping around takes a little fun out of things.
So, this was the weekend to head out and find a Christmas tree. The last few years, that meant picking out a place, looking at the trees and picking one out. It was one place, one tree, everybody was happy.
This year, I decided do do a little shopping around and, boy, that might have been a mistake.
First of all, how anybody can ask $80 for a cut tree is beyond me (then again, I'm sure prices in New York would make that look cheap). So, once the $80 price tag was seen, we played a little game to find a bigger tree for a better price.
Of course, my entourage just wanted to get out of the cold (and get a tree in the house), so the game was mostly in my head.
The thing was, prices didn't come down much from that $80. Sure, there are always some with a $30 price tag, but they would even make Charlie Brown blush.
Then again, it's amazing $30 isn't enough to get a tree. Anyway, after a lot of Saturday was spent driving from tree place to tree place, it became obvious there could only be one stop Sunday.
So, we settled on a $40 tree, got it into the house and will decorate next weekend.
Sometimes, though, shopping around takes a little fun out of things.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Rise and Shine --- How can you hate oranges?
Good Morning and welcome to one of those dreary days where staying in bed seemed like a much better option!
The questions come, sometimes even before dinner is made, "What's for dessert?"
Sometimes, I'll have something ready, sometimes not, it just depends on what's for dinner.
If it's soup and salad, say, then dessert may be some cake or possibly ice cream. If dinner is pasta, dessert may be nothing.
Sometimes, when the dessert questions come, I'll pull out a piece of fruit.
"Oooh, I hate oranges."
How can you hate oranges. They are sweet enough. They are fun to eat.
"Can't we have something else?"
OK, how about an apple.
"Can we have some chocolate on it?"
No, just an apple.
"I hate apples!"
Now, I can see if maybe, just maybe, the citrus acid in the orange might not be to your liking, but an apple? Apples are just about the perfect food. They give crunch. They can be sweet (if that's what you like) or tart (if it's your preference).
"No apples. No Oranges. I want cookies."
Well, we don't have cookies. How about a banana?
"Aaahhhh...."
The questions come, sometimes even before dinner is made, "What's for dessert?"
Sometimes, I'll have something ready, sometimes not, it just depends on what's for dinner.
If it's soup and salad, say, then dessert may be some cake or possibly ice cream. If dinner is pasta, dessert may be nothing.
Sometimes, when the dessert questions come, I'll pull out a piece of fruit.
"Oooh, I hate oranges."
How can you hate oranges. They are sweet enough. They are fun to eat.
"Can't we have something else?"
OK, how about an apple.
"Can we have some chocolate on it?"
No, just an apple.
"I hate apples!"
Now, I can see if maybe, just maybe, the citrus acid in the orange might not be to your liking, but an apple? Apples are just about the perfect food. They give crunch. They can be sweet (if that's what you like) or tart (if it's your preference).
"No apples. No Oranges. I want cookies."
Well, we don't have cookies. How about a banana?
"Aaahhhh...."
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Leaky faucet
Good Morning and wasn't it a little nicer weather-wise out there today?
So, the big story the last few days has been about the government documents put out there by an entity called Wikileaks. These documents were supposed to stay secret, I guess, only to be seen by higher ups in Washington.
They are all upset now, saying it's a criminal offense. Saying heads will roll. Saying they are going to use more than plumber's tape to seal the holes.
Well, la ti da! Anybody who is surprised that things get out these days must be fooling themselves.
Look, we've all seen enough movies and read enough books to know these kind of politics happen all the time. To pretend, on both sides, to be outraged by remarks made about Iran is just silly.
What's next, outrage over the president's lunch menu? How about a leak about the White House Christmas tree? How about the document that says the GOP is secretly scared to death at the possibility of Sarah Palin gaining enough presidential momentum?
Now, that would be scary.
So, the big story the last few days has been about the government documents put out there by an entity called Wikileaks. These documents were supposed to stay secret, I guess, only to be seen by higher ups in Washington.
They are all upset now, saying it's a criminal offense. Saying heads will roll. Saying they are going to use more than plumber's tape to seal the holes.
Well, la ti da! Anybody who is surprised that things get out these days must be fooling themselves.
Look, we've all seen enough movies and read enough books to know these kind of politics happen all the time. To pretend, on both sides, to be outraged by remarks made about Iran is just silly.
What's next, outrage over the president's lunch menu? How about a leak about the White House Christmas tree? How about the document that says the GOP is secretly scared to death at the possibility of Sarah Palin gaining enough presidential momentum?
Now, that would be scary.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Get just one more
Good Morning and welcome to something called 'Cyber Monday!'
That's right, on the heals of all those 'Black Friday' sales comes 'Cyber Monday.' That means today, you can go online and purchase the same junk you "needed" to get last week without having to pitch a tent.
There are certain things I don't get in life (the number seems to increase every day), but one big thing is this propensity to just buy, buy, buy because it's the holidays.
Now, of course, I'm kind of caught in the middle. With three young children, you want them to have an awesome Christmas morning (or afternoon), but you don't want to minimize the gifts you purchase.
Hey, the Nerf dart game looks cool, but the darts will probably be missing an hour after being opened. The tracks for the race set will never really snap together like they should.
So, what do you do? Get something they really want or get a bunch of stuff so Santa doesn't seem like a bad guy.
It's something to figure out over the next couple of weeks.
Anyway, time will decide that one.
In other news, actor Leslie Neilson died yesterday. He went from ultra-serious to funny in a long career.
Here's one of the funniest:
That's right, on the heals of all those 'Black Friday' sales comes 'Cyber Monday.' That means today, you can go online and purchase the same junk you "needed" to get last week without having to pitch a tent.
There are certain things I don't get in life (the number seems to increase every day), but one big thing is this propensity to just buy, buy, buy because it's the holidays.
Now, of course, I'm kind of caught in the middle. With three young children, you want them to have an awesome Christmas morning (or afternoon), but you don't want to minimize the gifts you purchase.
Hey, the Nerf dart game looks cool, but the darts will probably be missing an hour after being opened. The tracks for the race set will never really snap together like they should.
So, what do you do? Get something they really want or get a bunch of stuff so Santa doesn't seem like a bad guy.
It's something to figure out over the next couple of weeks.
Anyway, time will decide that one.
In other news, actor Leslie Neilson died yesterday. He went from ultra-serious to funny in a long career.
Here's one of the funniest:
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Rise and Shine -- Toss, turn, toss, turn
Good Morning and welcome to the day before Thankgsiving!
Since I won't be here tomorrow to brighten your morning, I offer a "Happy Thanksgiving" handshake today.
By the way, ever have one of those nights when, for no known reason, you just can't fall asleep.
You head to bed feeling a little tired. Do whatever your nighttime ritual has become, then hit the pillow.
Wham, suddenly you are wide awake. So, you turn a little bit. Maybe a lot. Still, sleep doesn't come. Meanwhile, the clock keeps moving. Suddenly, it's 11:30 (if your like me and try to be in bed by 11 each night). Then, it's midnight. So, you toss and turn a little more, trying not to think about the clock.
Yet, in the back of you mind, you can't help but count down how many hours it is until the alarm will go off.
It's 12:30. It's 1 a.m.
OK, trying counting sheep. Really, does that ever work.
Find some calming music. Well, that doesn't exist that time of the day.
Look at the clock. It's now 1:30. No, it's 2. Wait a minute, the alarm goes off in an hour-and-a-half.
Wednesday is going to be a long day.
So, as I muddle through the morning in some of not-quite-awake state, it's time to figure out a better strategy.
You don't know how much you miss the sleep until you don't get it.
Since I won't be here tomorrow to brighten your morning, I offer a "Happy Thanksgiving" handshake today.
By the way, ever have one of those nights when, for no known reason, you just can't fall asleep.
You head to bed feeling a little tired. Do whatever your nighttime ritual has become, then hit the pillow.
Wham, suddenly you are wide awake. So, you turn a little bit. Maybe a lot. Still, sleep doesn't come. Meanwhile, the clock keeps moving. Suddenly, it's 11:30 (if your like me and try to be in bed by 11 each night). Then, it's midnight. So, you toss and turn a little more, trying not to think about the clock.
Yet, in the back of you mind, you can't help but count down how many hours it is until the alarm will go off.
It's 12:30. It's 1 a.m.
OK, trying counting sheep. Really, does that ever work.
Find some calming music. Well, that doesn't exist that time of the day.
Look at the clock. It's now 1:30. No, it's 2. Wait a minute, the alarm goes off in an hour-and-a-half.
Wednesday is going to be a long day.
So, as I muddle through the morning in some of not-quite-awake state, it's time to figure out a better strategy.
You don't know how much you miss the sleep until you don't get it.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Knock it down already
Good Morning and welcome to another day to battle a cold!
You know, when you are going through one of these late fall/early winter head colds, it seems like you will never get healthy. Then, in a couple days, it will be forgotten. Most of us are lucky that way.
By the way, think Ed Snider is getting enough bang for his buck with this whole Spectrum thing? It's been over two years since the story was broken HERE.
We've seen them sell off the seats. We've seen them sell off the floor. We've seen them sell off the gum stuck between the steps.
Enough already! At least today it will be over when the wrecking ball hits the arena.
Sure, there were some iconic Philadelphia sports and concert events at the Spectrum. A lot of us, myself included, attended their first 'big' events at the arena.
I remember Flyers games as a child (back when you could actually afford to take a family to a Flyers game), several concerts (Fleetwood Mac, Boston, Billy Joel, Springsteen and more), but I won't exactly shed a tear when it comes down.
Hey, people, it's just a building. What's the big deal.
You know, when you are going through one of these late fall/early winter head colds, it seems like you will never get healthy. Then, in a couple days, it will be forgotten. Most of us are lucky that way.
By the way, think Ed Snider is getting enough bang for his buck with this whole Spectrum thing? It's been over two years since the story was broken HERE.
We've seen them sell off the seats. We've seen them sell off the floor. We've seen them sell off the gum stuck between the steps.
Enough already! At least today it will be over when the wrecking ball hits the arena.
Sure, there were some iconic Philadelphia sports and concert events at the Spectrum. A lot of us, myself included, attended their first 'big' events at the arena.
I remember Flyers games as a child (back when you could actually afford to take a family to a Flyers game), several concerts (Fleetwood Mac, Boston, Billy Joel, Springsteen and more), but I won't exactly shed a tear when it comes down.
Hey, people, it's just a building. What's the big deal.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Today's the day
Good Morning and somehow we are only a few days for Thanksgiving!
In a lot of houses, this week is a bit hectic. There's cooking. There's cleaning. There's more cooking. There's a visit from family and friends. Then there's epic cleaning.
While that's all well and good and a lot of fun, this week also brings some other sunshine to my house.
Well, the sunshine is there most days, but this week is a little brighter.
"Hey, girl, you have to stay 5. I don't care if it is your birthday, I don't want you getting any older."
First comes the look, then this: "Daddy. I'm a big girl. I'm not 5. I'm 6."
"No, no no. You are growing much too fast. You have to stay 5 for another year."
That's when the laughter fills the room, the other room, the whole house.
Sure, you can turn 6 today. Just keep spreading that sunshine.
Happy Birthday.
In a lot of houses, this week is a bit hectic. There's cooking. There's cleaning. There's more cooking. There's a visit from family and friends. Then there's epic cleaning.
While that's all well and good and a lot of fun, this week also brings some other sunshine to my house.
Well, the sunshine is there most days, but this week is a little brighter.
"Hey, girl, you have to stay 5. I don't care if it is your birthday, I don't want you getting any older."
First comes the look, then this: "Daddy. I'm a big girl. I'm not 5. I'm 6."
"No, no no. You are growing much too fast. You have to stay 5 for another year."
That's when the laughter fills the room, the other room, the whole house.
Sure, you can turn 6 today. Just keep spreading that sunshine.
Happy Birthday.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Aahh, another toy ad
Good Morning and welcome to what will have to stand as the middle of the week!
I keep wondering, if it's not winter yet, why does the snowball keep getting bigger. Suddenly, it's November and the end of the year of the year can't come soon enough.
Speaking of November and soon enough, I truly believe there is evil behind these toy companies. No matter where you turn, you see ads with happy children playing with some new car track or doll.
Up until a week ago, I had never heard of LaLa Loopsy. I've now been told the whole story behind the doll and we 'need' to have a couple of them.
A few years ago, we tried something called Moon Sand. It was supposed to be a play-dough type thing that you could mold into sand castles then break them down and make something else. It never dried out. Well, it did dry out, right on the couch and it never came off.
Now, Moon Sand, I hear, is back, but it's been repackaged into some kind of cool, learning experience.
Yeah, whatever.
Is it just me or do these things only appear in the last couple of months of the year? There seems to be all kinds of junk thrown out into the Holiday wind in hopes something will become a seller.
Then again, does anybody know where I can get some Lego Star Wars sets?
I keep wondering, if it's not winter yet, why does the snowball keep getting bigger. Suddenly, it's November and the end of the year of the year can't come soon enough.
Speaking of November and soon enough, I truly believe there is evil behind these toy companies. No matter where you turn, you see ads with happy children playing with some new car track or doll.
Up until a week ago, I had never heard of LaLa Loopsy. I've now been told the whole story behind the doll and we 'need' to have a couple of them.
A few years ago, we tried something called Moon Sand. It was supposed to be a play-dough type thing that you could mold into sand castles then break them down and make something else. It never dried out. Well, it did dry out, right on the couch and it never came off.
Now, Moon Sand, I hear, is back, but it's been repackaged into some kind of cool, learning experience.
Yeah, whatever.
Is it just me or do these things only appear in the last couple of months of the year? There seems to be all kinds of junk thrown out into the Holiday wind in hopes something will become a seller.
Then again, does anybody know where I can get some Lego Star Wars sets?
Monday, November 15, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Birthday month?
Good Morning and here's to hoping this is a better week!
Ever feel like you just want to jump off the roller coaster? Guess it has to stop sometime, after all, they don't ask for the tickets just to keep going and going and going.
Anyway, so a certain 5-year old I know is turning 6 next week. Once November hit, the question came every day: "How long until my birthday?"
Of course, my first answer always is, "No birthday this year. You have to stay 5. You are just right."
The little smile always comes next and she says: "Is today my birthday?"
So, this weekend I was able to tell her it was only a week away. So, that meant Sunday we had to practice.
"The boys have to sing Happy Birthday before they can eat breakfast," she told us.
A few moments later, "Daddy, the boys aren't practicing Happy Birthday."
So, we played along, we sang Happy (One week until your) Birthday.
Now I know what I'm in for the rest of the week: "It's my birthday, so I say what goes. Everybody play dolls with me."
See, she has to stay 5.
Ever feel like you just want to jump off the roller coaster? Guess it has to stop sometime, after all, they don't ask for the tickets just to keep going and going and going.
Anyway, so a certain 5-year old I know is turning 6 next week. Once November hit, the question came every day: "How long until my birthday?"
Of course, my first answer always is, "No birthday this year. You have to stay 5. You are just right."
The little smile always comes next and she says: "Is today my birthday?"
So, this weekend I was able to tell her it was only a week away. So, that meant Sunday we had to practice.
"The boys have to sing Happy Birthday before they can eat breakfast," she told us.
A few moments later, "Daddy, the boys aren't practicing Happy Birthday."
So, we played along, we sang Happy (One week until your) Birthday.
Now I know what I'm in for the rest of the week: "It's my birthday, so I say what goes. Everybody play dolls with me."
See, she has to stay 5.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Bird in the hand
Good Morning and, yes, it really is 70 degrees West of Harrisburg today!
Over the last couple of days, former President George W. Bush has been popping up on your television screen. He's just put out a new book called "Decision Points" where he talks about the eight years he spent in the White House.
TV newsheads have already broken down what he wrote and what he said.
My question is, Who really cares?
We spent eight years listening to Bush. We wondered how he got two terms as president. We have spent trillions on two unnecessary wars.
Enough already. No matter where your politics stand, it's a tough argument to defend Bush's economic policies. It's a tough argument to defend all the deaths in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's a tough argument to say Bush is relevant to anything going on today.
Of course, there are those who will try to make those points, but get shouted down.
By the way, it is interesting how the Republican party was able to talk Bush into waiting to appear on television until after the election.
Speaking of elections, there are already plenty of websites to break down what is or isn't being done.
Check out http://www.gopromisebreakers.com/ for an interesting take.
Over the last couple of days, former President George W. Bush has been popping up on your television screen. He's just put out a new book called "Decision Points" where he talks about the eight years he spent in the White House.
TV newsheads have already broken down what he wrote and what he said.
My question is, Who really cares?
We spent eight years listening to Bush. We wondered how he got two terms as president. We have spent trillions on two unnecessary wars.
Enough already. No matter where your politics stand, it's a tough argument to defend Bush's economic policies. It's a tough argument to defend all the deaths in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's a tough argument to say Bush is relevant to anything going on today.
Of course, there are those who will try to make those points, but get shouted down.
By the way, it is interesting how the Republican party was able to talk Bush into waiting to appear on television until after the election.
Speaking of elections, there are already plenty of websites to break down what is or isn't being done.
Check out http://www.gopromisebreakers.com/ for an interesting take.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Yes, it's started
Good Morning and welcome to a much more pleasant day!
I knew there was going to be trouble a couple of weeks ago. In a last-minute attempt to pick up some eyballs for a Halloween party, I found instead decorated trees.
When I looked down the aisle I had seen the treats just a couple of days before, there were Nutcrackers and chocolate Santas.
It was all I could do to not run out of the store screaming.
Look, I know how retail stores have to extend the holiday season as long as they can. Having worked in a store the last couple of Christmas seasons, I know it is the most important time of the year. (Not a day didn't go past where the manager left a little note above the employee entrance that simply said, "Sell, Sell, Sell").
I know in this economy that isn't quite as good as some would like you to believe, the holidays might make the difference between staying open and boarding up.
Still, I don't want to see it. I used to get laughed at because I didn't want to to do any Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving (although, truth be told, I have a couple of things this year).
Who knows, next year we might be hearing the sleigh bells mixed in with the fireworks July 4th.
I knew there was going to be trouble a couple of weeks ago. In a last-minute attempt to pick up some eyballs for a Halloween party, I found instead decorated trees.
When I looked down the aisle I had seen the treats just a couple of days before, there were Nutcrackers and chocolate Santas.
It was all I could do to not run out of the store screaming.
Look, I know how retail stores have to extend the holiday season as long as they can. Having worked in a store the last couple of Christmas seasons, I know it is the most important time of the year. (Not a day didn't go past where the manager left a little note above the employee entrance that simply said, "Sell, Sell, Sell").
I know in this economy that isn't quite as good as some would like you to believe, the holidays might make the difference between staying open and boarding up.
Still, I don't want to see it. I used to get laughed at because I didn't want to to do any Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving (although, truth be told, I have a couple of things this year).
Who knows, next year we might be hearing the sleigh bells mixed in with the fireworks July 4th.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Oil like boils
Good Morning and welcome to a brand-new, spanking week!
One thing I do every year is have a debate in my head when it is time to turn on the heat in the house. See, I have oil heat, so it's not as simple as getting the temperature up.
I have to check out the price of oil. Check the weather reports to see how long I have before it actually gets "cold." Check the price again. Check the gauge on the tank. Check the price one more time.
Usually, I try to make it as close to Thanksgiving as possible.
When a 5-year old girl, though, wants to put on her heavy coat while eating lunch, I guess it's time to break down and turn the temperature up.
That doesn't mean I don't continue to check the price and the level on a daily basis.
Now, I'm waiting for a nice week of 70 degree days. Guess that won't come until May.
One thing I do every year is have a debate in my head when it is time to turn on the heat in the house. See, I have oil heat, so it's not as simple as getting the temperature up.
I have to check out the price of oil. Check the weather reports to see how long I have before it actually gets "cold." Check the price again. Check the gauge on the tank. Check the price one more time.
Usually, I try to make it as close to Thanksgiving as possible.
When a 5-year old girl, though, wants to put on her heavy coat while eating lunch, I guess it's time to break down and turn the temperature up.
That doesn't mean I don't continue to check the price and the level on a daily basis.
Now, I'm waiting for a nice week of 70 degree days. Guess that won't come until May.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Adventures in voting
So, at 10 a.m., my posse and I were the 99th voter of the day at the polling place.
For the last election, we were the 15th at 10 a.m., so maybe turnout will be high.
So, anyway, we pulled up to the place and a voice came from the back: "Dad, look at all those signs! We need to pick who to vote for. Eeney, meaney..."
Well, that's one way. I figured trying to explain the issues to an 8-year would take the rest of the day, so I said it was a matter of who you feel comfortable with.
"Hey, that sign says Joe Sestak! Ted Erickson? Funny names."
For the last election, we were the 15th at 10 a.m., so maybe turnout will be high.
So, anyway, we pulled up to the place and a voice came from the back: "Dad, look at all those signs! We need to pick who to vote for. Eeney, meaney..."
Well, that's one way. I figured trying to explain the issues to an 8-year would take the rest of the day, so I said it was a matter of who you feel comfortable with.
"Hey, that sign says Joe Sestak! Ted Erickson? Funny names."
Get out and Vote!
Good morning and welcome to (finally) the end of this election cycle!
Anybody who has watched any television over the past few weeks is happy today is election day.
That means we won't have to see those political commercials any more.
So, while you think about driving past your polling place because the line looks long or you feel you don't have the time, remember one other vision from recent TV: George W. Bush.
The ex-prez was watching the Texas Rangers lose to the San Fran Giants in the World Series.
Think about it: Do we really need people like that running our country again?
Get out and vote!
Anybody who has watched any television over the past few weeks is happy today is election day.
That means we won't have to see those political commercials any more.
So, while you think about driving past your polling place because the line looks long or you feel you don't have the time, remember one other vision from recent TV: George W. Bush.
The ex-prez was watching the Texas Rangers lose to the San Fran Giants in the World Series.
Think about it: Do we really need people like that running our country again?
Get out and vote!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Rise and Shine --- It's not cold. It's Halloween.
Good Morning and welcome to November!
Yes, it's November. Yes, the year is going too quickly. Yes, it's getting chilly outside.
Last night, it was downright cold. For some reason, though, the cold didn't seem to matter to some. It could have been blowing snow and sleet, but, on Halloween anyway, the cold was just a minor nusience.
So, after opening the door for the first trick-or-treater, it became obvious I had to pull on the jacket and the sweater.
Then, I looked over to the Spider Princess and said, "It's cold outside. You might want to put some long pants on under your dress."
"Daddy," the princess, ruffling her nose, said. "It's not cold. It's Halloween."
Knowing it was a battle I wasn't going to win at that moment, I retreated.
"OK, sweetie. But if you get cold while walking around, remember I told you to put long pants on."
The princess didn't care. So, along with a detective, a Clone Trooper and a techno rocker, the search for candy was on. After the second stop at home to clear the bags, it was time to take a break.
Taking a break on Halloween meant eating some of the candy while trying to get trick-or-treaters to come over.
About an hour later, I figured I would ask the question. "Hey, ready to put on some long pants? The dress is nice, but you must be getting cold."
In a voice only a 5-year old going on 13 can muster came the replay.
"Daddy. I told you. It's not cold, it's Halloween. Can we go walk around again?"
Yes, it's November. Yes, the year is going too quickly. Yes, it's getting chilly outside.
Last night, it was downright cold. For some reason, though, the cold didn't seem to matter to some. It could have been blowing snow and sleet, but, on Halloween anyway, the cold was just a minor nusience.
So, after opening the door for the first trick-or-treater, it became obvious I had to pull on the jacket and the sweater.
Then, I looked over to the Spider Princess and said, "It's cold outside. You might want to put some long pants on under your dress."
"Daddy," the princess, ruffling her nose, said. "It's not cold. It's Halloween."
Knowing it was a battle I wasn't going to win at that moment, I retreated.
"OK, sweetie. But if you get cold while walking around, remember I told you to put long pants on."
The princess didn't care. So, along with a detective, a Clone Trooper and a techno rocker, the search for candy was on. After the second stop at home to clear the bags, it was time to take a break.
Taking a break on Halloween meant eating some of the candy while trying to get trick-or-treaters to come over.
About an hour later, I figured I would ask the question. "Hey, ready to put on some long pants? The dress is nice, but you must be getting cold."
In a voice only a 5-year old going on 13 can muster came the replay.
"Daddy. I told you. It's not cold, it's Halloween. Can we go walk around again?"
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Is this October?
Good Morning and welcome to the day before the start of the World Series!
Anybody who stepped outside yesterday got the feeling there was something strange in the world. OK, not strange, but the odd feeling was there.
You could see it in the cars as they drove past and in the people as they were walking around.
Even though we've seen it last few years, it still feels a little strange to be able to head outside without the jacket in late October.
Listen, I'm not complaining. I'll take this weather the rest of the year, but I know that's not going to happen. The chill will come back. The jackets will be pulled down off the hook and the heat will have to be turned up.
Still, we can enjoy it while it lasts.
Which, actually, is something Phillies fans should think about. I've heard more 'fans' over the last few days talking about how bad the season was or how disappointed they were in not making the World Series.
I just have to shake my head. For those with short memories, the Phillies weren't always a team with World Series hopes. Even like six years ago, we would have been happy with a .500 record.
So, at least we are in a pretty good stretch where there is something fun to see during the summer.
Don't think so? Talk to Pirate fans.
Anybody who stepped outside yesterday got the feeling there was something strange in the world. OK, not strange, but the odd feeling was there.
You could see it in the cars as they drove past and in the people as they were walking around.
Even though we've seen it last few years, it still feels a little strange to be able to head outside without the jacket in late October.
Listen, I'm not complaining. I'll take this weather the rest of the year, but I know that's not going to happen. The chill will come back. The jackets will be pulled down off the hook and the heat will have to be turned up.
Still, we can enjoy it while it lasts.
Which, actually, is something Phillies fans should think about. I've heard more 'fans' over the last few days talking about how bad the season was or how disappointed they were in not making the World Series.
I just have to shake my head. For those with short memories, the Phillies weren't always a team with World Series hopes. Even like six years ago, we would have been happy with a .500 record.
So, at least we are in a pretty good stretch where there is something fun to see during the summer.
Don't think so? Talk to Pirate fans.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Late nights, early mornings
Good Morning and welcome back to the only place where you can find this!
So, the Phillies season ended Saturday night with a called third-strike. You can't win them all, although you would like to see your big slugger at least take the bat off his shoulder for the final pitch.
Sitting there watching Saturday's game with my 11-year old son, I got the feeling we were back in the day. You know that day, the one where the Phillies disappointed every year.
Somehow, the way was flowing, I just had a feeling of dread. I bet a penny on a double play and, boom, Carlos Ruiz lined into one.
I bet a penny on a strikeout to end the game and there was Ryan Howard watching the season end.
Oh Well, maybe next year.
One thing the Phillies did, though, was force a change in the way we covered the playoffs.
There were live blogs for every game and, when the Phillies went on the road, so did we (sort of).
We took our camera out to meet some of the people who were watching the games. What we found out is, in the words of Christine O'Donnell, they were us. Or, better said, we were a part of them.
Now, we'll see how it works for the Eagles.
So, the Phillies season ended Saturday night with a called third-strike. You can't win them all, although you would like to see your big slugger at least take the bat off his shoulder for the final pitch.
Sitting there watching Saturday's game with my 11-year old son, I got the feeling we were back in the day. You know that day, the one where the Phillies disappointed every year.
Somehow, the way was flowing, I just had a feeling of dread. I bet a penny on a double play and, boom, Carlos Ruiz lined into one.
I bet a penny on a strikeout to end the game and there was Ryan Howard watching the season end.
Oh Well, maybe next year.
One thing the Phillies did, though, was force a change in the way we covered the playoffs.
There were live blogs for every game and, when the Phillies went on the road, so did we (sort of).
We took our camera out to meet some of the people who were watching the games. What we found out is, in the words of Christine O'Donnell, they were us. Or, better said, we were a part of them.
Now, we'll see how it works for the Eagles.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Politics, blech
Good Morning and welcome to a real October day!
I don't know about you, but I'm already getting sick of this election and we still have a month to go.
It probably would be more interesting if Christine O'Donnell was a witch. Then at least there would be some spark. Instead, we have the same boring candidates running for the same jobs at the same time.
The political ads that appear on TV are dirty politics. It's like they sit around a room and say, "OK, a month left, lets start throwing tomatoes at our opponent."
There are two we are most concerned about here.
The first, is the U.S. Senate seat being fought over by U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak (Democrat) and Pat Toomey (Republican?).
The battle lines have been drawn on this one for awhile. Do you want believe Sestak can make a difference, or do you want to relive the past the Bush era?
Hey, by the way, Toomey thinks so much of the battle he can't even make it to our office to meet the editorial board. Editor Phil Heron said this morning, "They told us we could get him by phone."
The other race, of course, is for Sestak's former seat in the U.S. House, the 7th District battle between Republican Pat Meehan and Democtrat Bryan Lentz.
Both are nice guys. Both have strong backgrounds. Both seem to have good ideas.
Just one thing, the next one (or a the next representative of one of them) who knocks on my door loses my vote.
There's a race for you.
I don't know about you, but I'm already getting sick of this election and we still have a month to go.
It probably would be more interesting if Christine O'Donnell was a witch. Then at least there would be some spark. Instead, we have the same boring candidates running for the same jobs at the same time.
The political ads that appear on TV are dirty politics. It's like they sit around a room and say, "OK, a month left, lets start throwing tomatoes at our opponent."
There are two we are most concerned about here.
The first, is the U.S. Senate seat being fought over by U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak (Democrat) and Pat Toomey (Republican?).
The battle lines have been drawn on this one for awhile. Do you want believe Sestak can make a difference, or do you want to relive the past the Bush era?
Hey, by the way, Toomey thinks so much of the battle he can't even make it to our office to meet the editorial board. Editor Phil Heron said this morning, "They told us we could get him by phone."
The other race, of course, is for Sestak's former seat in the U.S. House, the 7th District battle between Republican Pat Meehan and Democtrat Bryan Lentz.
Both are nice guys. Both have strong backgrounds. Both seem to have good ideas.
Just one thing, the next one (or a the next representative of one of them) who knocks on my door loses my vote.
There's a race for you.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Rain, snow, oh no!
Good Morning and welcome to a wet, wild Tuesday!
Maybe it's just me, but when a violent thunderstorm hits in October, I'm thinking there may be something wrong with our weather patterns. Meanwhile, a major hail, wind, rain storm (there was even a mention of wet snow) is supposed to hit us Thursday. Sounds like I should have spent more time outside yesterday.
Then again, it probably would have meant cutting the lawn, so maybe inside was better.
Speaking of inside, one thing I hope to never have to do again is watch both the Phillies and Eagles games at the same time (it was for a live blog on the website). It made me feel like I had ADT or something.
I wanted to watch the Phillies clinch, but didn't want to deprive the readers (by the way, thanks you two) of their Eagles update.
So, I went back and forth and back and forth. Fun, it was not. For some reason, it seemed like both games went to commercial at the same time, all the time. I saw Chase Utley's home run, but missed LeSean McCoy's touchdown. (Still saw enough of the Eagles/49ers to say they both stink as does the whole NFL).
So, at least for now, it looks like that double won't hit for the rest of the playoffs.
Then again, I'm sure they'll find something else for me to do.
In case you missed it, here it is again:
Maybe it's just me, but when a violent thunderstorm hits in October, I'm thinking there may be something wrong with our weather patterns. Meanwhile, a major hail, wind, rain storm (there was even a mention of wet snow) is supposed to hit us Thursday. Sounds like I should have spent more time outside yesterday.
Then again, it probably would have meant cutting the lawn, so maybe inside was better.
Speaking of inside, one thing I hope to never have to do again is watch both the Phillies and Eagles games at the same time (it was for a live blog on the website). It made me feel like I had ADT or something.
I wanted to watch the Phillies clinch, but didn't want to deprive the readers (by the way, thanks you two) of their Eagles update.
So, I went back and forth and back and forth. Fun, it was not. For some reason, it seemed like both games went to commercial at the same time, all the time. I saw Chase Utley's home run, but missed LeSean McCoy's touchdown. (Still saw enough of the Eagles/49ers to say they both stink as does the whole NFL).
So, at least for now, it looks like that double won't hit for the rest of the playoffs.
Then again, I'm sure they'll find something else for me to do.
In case you missed it, here it is again:
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Moments
Good Morning and welcome back to the Internet!
You know, every once in a while, you have those moments in life you wish you could just relive over and over again.
Wednesday's are pretty busy times. It's get back from school, get the homework done, eat a quick dinner, get to dance class, check the homework, fix the homework, get to bed.
Throw in a Phillies playoff game (and working while the game was going on), well, it adds to the level.
So, last night, we started the routine. By 5 p.m., it was obvious everything was going to be a rush. So, the radio went on with the game, the computer was loaded (although way too slow) and homework was being done.
There we sat at the table, two doing homework, one wondering why the damn thing wouldn't load.
Anyway, flash ahead to the ninth inning. With the Middle Schooler finishing up his work (and finding it more fascinating what everybody was saying on our live blog), we were listening to the ninth inning.
"Remember this! There's only been one no-hitter during the playoffs in baseball history."
"Really, only one?" said the 11-year old.
So, we sat there and listened to the outs, when the final out was recorded I pushed the computer away and high-fived my partner at the table.
Sure, it was only a moment, but it felt pretty neat.
You know, every once in a while, you have those moments in life you wish you could just relive over and over again.
Wednesday's are pretty busy times. It's get back from school, get the homework done, eat a quick dinner, get to dance class, check the homework, fix the homework, get to bed.
Throw in a Phillies playoff game (and working while the game was going on), well, it adds to the level.
So, last night, we started the routine. By 5 p.m., it was obvious everything was going to be a rush. So, the radio went on with the game, the computer was loaded (although way too slow) and homework was being done.
There we sat at the table, two doing homework, one wondering why the damn thing wouldn't load.
Anyway, flash ahead to the ninth inning. With the Middle Schooler finishing up his work (and finding it more fascinating what everybody was saying on our live blog), we were listening to the ninth inning.
"Remember this! There's only been one no-hitter during the playoffs in baseball history."
"Really, only one?" said the 11-year old.
So, we sat there and listened to the outs, when the final out was recorded I pushed the computer away and high-fived my partner at the table.
Sure, it was only a moment, but it felt pretty neat.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Rise and Shine --- October
Good Morning and welcome to the cold, rain and clouds!
So, when October hit Friday, I started thinking about the upcoming winter, how much the heat is going to cost and if the Phillies can make it back to the World Series.
Saturday, though, I was bombarded with other thoughts.
"Daddy, it's the first day of Halloween," said a 5-year old I know.
Well, OK, it's getting closer, but we have a whole month to go.
"Can we go on a hayride?"
Sure, but let's wait until maybe next week.
"But I love hayrides."
Yeah, they are fun, but you just went on one, let's figure something else to do.
"Hayride, hayride, hayride!"
Hey, wait, there's an art festival we can check out. You can make your own Halloween costume.
"OK, but then we can go on a hayride?"
We'll see.
"That means No!"
No, that means we'll see how the day goes on. Let's get started and we'll figure it out.
"OK."
So, I was able to push off the hayride for at least week, but it's not going to last.
Sunday morning, the question came again: "Daddy, it's a nice day, can we go on a hayride."
Having to work Sunday (thanks to the Eagles) made it impossible to do Sunday, but I know the requests will come all week.
I also know Saturday night I'll be picking hay out of my shoes.
So, when October hit Friday, I started thinking about the upcoming winter, how much the heat is going to cost and if the Phillies can make it back to the World Series.
Saturday, though, I was bombarded with other thoughts.
"Daddy, it's the first day of Halloween," said a 5-year old I know.
Well, OK, it's getting closer, but we have a whole month to go.
"Can we go on a hayride?"
Sure, but let's wait until maybe next week.
"But I love hayrides."
Yeah, they are fun, but you just went on one, let's figure something else to do.
"Hayride, hayride, hayride!"
Hey, wait, there's an art festival we can check out. You can make your own Halloween costume.
"OK, but then we can go on a hayride?"
We'll see.
"That means No!"
No, that means we'll see how the day goes on. Let's get started and we'll figure it out.
"OK."
So, I was able to push off the hayride for at least week, but it's not going to last.
Sunday morning, the question came again: "Daddy, it's a nice day, can we go on a hayride."
Having to work Sunday (thanks to the Eagles) made it impossible to do Sunday, but I know the requests will come all week.
I also know Saturday night I'll be picking hay out of my shoes.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Rise and Shine -- Glory years
Good Morning and welcome to a gloomy Tuesday!
You know, the more and more the Phillies celebrate titles, it's getting harder and harder to convince some people it wasn't always this good.
No, I tell the boys, the Phillies didn't win every year. No, there were years you knew the season was over after the first game (remember Joe Cowley?).
There were years we convinced ourselves all winter this would be different. Danny Tartabull was the answer in the middle of the lineup (he lasted a whopping one game before getting hurt). The starting rotation of Combs, Mulholland and Ruffin will carry us into the playoffs (Never mind). Jeff Stone is so fast he might steal 100 bases (forgot to say he couldn't field or hit).
Now, though, they are winners. Maybe the most feared team heading into the playoffs. Really, if you look at it, the Phillies should be the favorite to win the World Series. Not saying they will, in baseball anything can happen, but they have to be No. 1.
So, all you Phillies fans out there, enjoy the ride. It's really never been so good.
You know, the more and more the Phillies celebrate titles, it's getting harder and harder to convince some people it wasn't always this good.
No, I tell the boys, the Phillies didn't win every year. No, there were years you knew the season was over after the first game (remember Joe Cowley?).
There were years we convinced ourselves all winter this would be different. Danny Tartabull was the answer in the middle of the lineup (he lasted a whopping one game before getting hurt). The starting rotation of Combs, Mulholland and Ruffin will carry us into the playoffs (Never mind). Jeff Stone is so fast he might steal 100 bases (forgot to say he couldn't field or hit).
Now, though, they are winners. Maybe the most feared team heading into the playoffs. Really, if you look at it, the Phillies should be the favorite to win the World Series. Not saying they will, in baseball anything can happen, but they have to be No. 1.
So, all you Phillies fans out there, enjoy the ride. It's really never been so good.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Holding on
Good Morning and welcome to the real Fall!
So, when the temperature again hit the 90s Friday, it was obvious summer wasn't really going to let go. After all, why should it? We've been sweltering through a few months, so why not a couple of more days.
Of course, summer means water. Now, because of various circumstances, the shore wasn't part of our summer ritual this year. Instead, we were content with Grandmom's pool.
Anyway, with not much to do and with the heat being turned up, Saturday seemed like the perfect day for a trip.
After participating in the Walk 4 Hearing at Ridley Creek State Park Saturday morning (and getting a few things done), it was time to pile into the van and drive.
This wasn't going to be a beach day, but a day to get some of the sea air in our lungs and enjoy the breeze.
Of course, there was mini golf (won a free game after playing a free game) and some rides (a lucky person got 24 free tickets).
Mostly, though, it was summed up by a very sleepy 5-year old after hitting the highway to get back home: "Dad, that was a fantastic day."
All right!
So, when the temperature again hit the 90s Friday, it was obvious summer wasn't really going to let go. After all, why should it? We've been sweltering through a few months, so why not a couple of more days.
Of course, summer means water. Now, because of various circumstances, the shore wasn't part of our summer ritual this year. Instead, we were content with Grandmom's pool.
Anyway, with not much to do and with the heat being turned up, Saturday seemed like the perfect day for a trip.
After participating in the Walk 4 Hearing at Ridley Creek State Park Saturday morning (and getting a few things done), it was time to pile into the van and drive.
This wasn't going to be a beach day, but a day to get some of the sea air in our lungs and enjoy the breeze.
Of course, there was mini golf (won a free game after playing a free game) and some rides (a lucky person got 24 free tickets).
Mostly, though, it was summed up by a very sleepy 5-year old after hitting the highway to get back home: "Dad, that was a fantastic day."
All right!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Headache
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
You know it's going to be a long day when you wake up with a sinus-induced headache. There would be nothing better than going back to bed, but that's not to be today.
Then again, maybe it was because I woke up to THIS.
You know, really, I could really care less about Michael Vick or Kevin Kolb. I've learned long ago that, with very few exceptions, professional athletes don't care about you and me. They live in some other world.
Still, everybody has to weigh in and since I have to watch every Eagles game this year as part of the job, well, it's kind of laughable.
The Eagles (and fans) spent the whole offseason talking about a new quarterback and getting rid of Donovan McNabb.
Then, after getting a concussion in his first game, Kolb was sent to pasture. No matter what Andy Reid says now, Kolb will never be able to start in Philadelphia.
The coach cut him down, stabbed him in the back, slapped him on the wrists.
So, all those people who were so happy to get rid of Donovan McNabb, well, enjoy a bunch of losing years in a row.
And, the headache is still here.
You know it's going to be a long day when you wake up with a sinus-induced headache. There would be nothing better than going back to bed, but that's not to be today.
Then again, maybe it was because I woke up to THIS.
You know, really, I could really care less about Michael Vick or Kevin Kolb. I've learned long ago that, with very few exceptions, professional athletes don't care about you and me. They live in some other world.
Still, everybody has to weigh in and since I have to watch every Eagles game this year as part of the job, well, it's kind of laughable.
The Eagles (and fans) spent the whole offseason talking about a new quarterback and getting rid of Donovan McNabb.
Then, after getting a concussion in his first game, Kolb was sent to pasture. No matter what Andy Reid says now, Kolb will never be able to start in Philadelphia.
The coach cut him down, stabbed him in the back, slapped him on the wrists.
So, all those people who were so happy to get rid of Donovan McNabb, well, enjoy a bunch of losing years in a row.
And, the headache is still here.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Rise and Shine --- From the mouth of...
Good Morning and welcome back to the only place where the roller coaster never stops!
I've also found out that watching the Phillies game is no way to treat a cold. You need sleep, sleep and more sleep. Of course, that's not coming so I'll have to settle for the Phillies.
Unless, of course, somebody else gets hold of the remote.
"I don't want to watch Phillies," always says the 5-year old. "It's boring."
Of course, then she proceeds to show me how boring by rolling around on the couch or shouting "boring" over and over again.
Truth be told, I know better. When the little ones are in control of the TV, I have about half a commercial time to check a score.
That's OK, though. I'd rather watch them, or, more precisely, their reaction to things.
Like the other day when I joked we were going to go on a haunted hayride.
"Ooh, a hayride," said the 5-year old in her sing-song voice. "I love hayrides."
But, this is a haunted hayride, they try to scare you.
"Daddy," she firmly stated, "we won't be going on that kind of hayride."
I couldn't help but smile. Then, I started thinking, I better find time for a trip to Livilla Orchards.
I've also found out that watching the Phillies game is no way to treat a cold. You need sleep, sleep and more sleep. Of course, that's not coming so I'll have to settle for the Phillies.
Unless, of course, somebody else gets hold of the remote.
"I don't want to watch Phillies," always says the 5-year old. "It's boring."
Of course, then she proceeds to show me how boring by rolling around on the couch or shouting "boring" over and over again.
Truth be told, I know better. When the little ones are in control of the TV, I have about half a commercial time to check a score.
That's OK, though. I'd rather watch them, or, more precisely, their reaction to things.
Like the other day when I joked we were going to go on a haunted hayride.
"Ooh, a hayride," said the 5-year old in her sing-song voice. "I love hayrides."
But, this is a haunted hayride, they try to scare you.
"Daddy," she firmly stated, "we won't be going on that kind of hayride."
I couldn't help but smile. Then, I started thinking, I better find time for a trip to Livilla Orchards.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Pass the Sudafed
Good Morning and welcome to the last couple of days of 'summer!'
You know the summer is really over when you have Octoberfest and Pumpkin beers hitting the taps.
Meanwhile, it's time to start battling one of those annoying hay fever colds. The sinuses are stuffed up. The sneezing is annoying and the coughing feels like your about to bring up a lung.
It doesn't help that it's a Monday, but, as one little girl I know likes to sing, "A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down."
So, as the sneezing attack hits again, enjoy this (or at least try to figure out how some people have so much time):
You know the summer is really over when you have Octoberfest and Pumpkin beers hitting the taps.
Meanwhile, it's time to start battling one of those annoying hay fever colds. The sinuses are stuffed up. The sneezing is annoying and the coughing feels like your about to bring up a lung.
It doesn't help that it's a Monday, but, as one little girl I know likes to sing, "A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down."
So, as the sneezing attack hits again, enjoy this (or at least try to figure out how some people have so much time):
DJ Kitty - watch more funny videos
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Drinking tea?
Good Morning and welcome to another Wednesday!
OK, you can color me confused.
There is some kind of movement out there that likes to call itself the Tea Party. It's backed by such top-notch thinkers as Sarah Palin.
Well, these Tea Party candidates run as Republicans, but also say the GOP is not conservative enough for their tastes. Which, I guess, is a little like saying mint chocolate-chip ice cream doesn't have enough mint or chocolate chips. Hey, it is what it is, deal with it.
(Speaking of ice cream, spent a nice evening at What's the Scoop here in Primos Tuesday night. Didn't see any tea flavored ice cream.)
So, a career candidate Christine O'Donnell won the GOP nomination for Delaware's Senate seat during Tuesday's primary. The main part of the Republican party had backed her opponent, but, like O'Donnell said "the people of Delaware have spoken!"
Now, these outsiders apparently want to be part of the machine. They are upset because the GOP won't throw tons of money behind the candidates.
They want to argue against those in power, but also want to be backed by those in power.
Sorry, can't have it both ways.
Either you are a third party candidate (ask Lyndon LaRouche how that works out) or you are not.
In the end, it all looks like the same side of the coin.
By the way, the cherry vanilla is a good bet for dessert.
OK, you can color me confused.
There is some kind of movement out there that likes to call itself the Tea Party. It's backed by such top-notch thinkers as Sarah Palin.
Well, these Tea Party candidates run as Republicans, but also say the GOP is not conservative enough for their tastes. Which, I guess, is a little like saying mint chocolate-chip ice cream doesn't have enough mint or chocolate chips. Hey, it is what it is, deal with it.
(Speaking of ice cream, spent a nice evening at What's the Scoop here in Primos Tuesday night. Didn't see any tea flavored ice cream.)
So, a career candidate Christine O'Donnell won the GOP nomination for Delaware's Senate seat during Tuesday's primary. The main part of the Republican party had backed her opponent, but, like O'Donnell said "the people of Delaware have spoken!"
Now, these outsiders apparently want to be part of the machine. They are upset because the GOP won't throw tons of money behind the candidates.
They want to argue against those in power, but also want to be backed by those in power.
Sorry, can't have it both ways.
Either you are a third party candidate (ask Lyndon LaRouche how that works out) or you are not.
In the end, it all looks like the same side of the coin.
By the way, the cherry vanilla is a good bet for dessert.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Already?
Good Morning and welcome to a (bleh) Monday!
Is it just me or does the weekend seem to go by even more quickly now?
It seems like Friday comes along, then, before you can blink, it's back to Monday. It's like we are always running to do something, getting here, getting there, then BOOM, it's back to the weekly grind.
Work, school, homework, eat, sleep.
It just gets tougher to spread out the hours during off times. Then again, as I've seen and proven, trying to jam too much in during those hours can make it even worse.
So, there has to be a balance somewhere. It's finding it that's proving elusive.
Meanwhile, I'm still trying to figure out the MTV Music Video Awards. When you turn it on and the only artist you've actually heard sing before was Cher, well, it's time to upgrade the iPod.
Although, this was interesting:
Is it just me or does the weekend seem to go by even more quickly now?
It seems like Friday comes along, then, before you can blink, it's back to Monday. It's like we are always running to do something, getting here, getting there, then BOOM, it's back to the weekly grind.
Work, school, homework, eat, sleep.
It just gets tougher to spread out the hours during off times. Then again, as I've seen and proven, trying to jam too much in during those hours can make it even worse.
So, there has to be a balance somewhere. It's finding it that's proving elusive.
Meanwhile, I'm still trying to figure out the MTV Music Video Awards. When you turn it on and the only artist you've actually heard sing before was Cher, well, it's time to upgrade the iPod.
Although, this was interesting:
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Just don't get it
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
A hot topic of conversation yesterday was about a Florida church that plans on a Quran burning Saturday.
The Government is speaking out against it. Military leaders in Afghanistan are saying it could lead to troop deaths.
Any person with a brain should be condemning the church and its leader, Terry Jones.
That kind of hate does nobody any good. It doesn't matter if you are Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Jehovah's Witness or atheist, there is no way a correctly-working sense of morality should support this kind of thing.
So, they burn the Quoran. Then the next step is they burn the Torah, because, well, those of the Jewish faith aren't Christian. Then they start burning houses to those who don't support their doctrine.
We are all people. Even those who live strictly by the Bible can't argue the fact that everybody in every religion worships the same God. The stories might be different, told from a different point of view and written at different times, but they are the same.
Before you condemn, do some research.
Talk to people of different faiths. See that everybody is pretty much the same.
Then do yourself a favor and rent or watch online the movie "Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden.
If you keep things open, maybe there wouldn't be so much hate around.
A hot topic of conversation yesterday was about a Florida church that plans on a Quran burning Saturday.
The Government is speaking out against it. Military leaders in Afghanistan are saying it could lead to troop deaths.
Any person with a brain should be condemning the church and its leader, Terry Jones.
That kind of hate does nobody any good. It doesn't matter if you are Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Jehovah's Witness or atheist, there is no way a correctly-working sense of morality should support this kind of thing.
So, they burn the Quoran. Then the next step is they burn the Torah, because, well, those of the Jewish faith aren't Christian. Then they start burning houses to those who don't support their doctrine.
We are all people. Even those who live strictly by the Bible can't argue the fact that everybody in every religion worships the same God. The stories might be different, told from a different point of view and written at different times, but they are the same.
Before you condemn, do some research.
Talk to people of different faiths. See that everybody is pretty much the same.
Then do yourself a favor and rent or watch online the movie "Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden.
If you keep things open, maybe there wouldn't be so much hate around.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Rise and Shine --- One last blast
Good Morning and welcome to the real first week of school!
Of course, some schools started last week, but there weren't buses at every corner and there weren't students walking all over the place. Today's the day when the morning (and afternoon) traffic picks up. Drive carefully, it's back to the grind.
So, even though the students I know started school last week, we tried to squeeze every bit of summer out of the season.
Earlier this summer, we hit museums, playgrounds, movies and parks. We've taken one-day road trips. We played games and had catches.
So, not wanting to let go (especially with the weather turning so nice), we blew out the weekend.
We went to a festival, road bikes and topped it all off with a Wilmington Blue Rocks game Monday.
Sure, everybody was tired, but you have to squeeze it all in. Some people do picnics or cookouts for Labor Day. Some watch tennis. Some play tennis.
Whatever, it's all about enjoying every single moment.
Now, life will be dominated by homework and getting everybody to school.
It's a different kind of fun.
Of course, some schools started last week, but there weren't buses at every corner and there weren't students walking all over the place. Today's the day when the morning (and afternoon) traffic picks up. Drive carefully, it's back to the grind.
So, even though the students I know started school last week, we tried to squeeze every bit of summer out of the season.
Earlier this summer, we hit museums, playgrounds, movies and parks. We've taken one-day road trips. We played games and had catches.
So, not wanting to let go (especially with the weather turning so nice), we blew out the weekend.
We went to a festival, road bikes and topped it all off with a Wilmington Blue Rocks game Monday.
Sure, everybody was tired, but you have to squeeze it all in. Some people do picnics or cookouts for Labor Day. Some watch tennis. Some play tennis.
Whatever, it's all about enjoying every single moment.
Now, life will be dominated by homework and getting everybody to school.
It's a different kind of fun.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Behind already
Good Morning and welcome back as summer tries to hold on for a few more days!!
Whoever invented the snooze button on an alarm clock is either everybody's best friend or an evil genius.
Most days, I'm able to hit the snooze button a few times, pull myself out of bed and get ready for work.
Then there are those like today when the snooze saved and annoyed me at the same time.
The alarm went off as usual, I hit the snooze. Ten minutes later it rang, I snoozed. Then I either fell back asleep and hit the button in my sleep or I don't remember doing it. When you look at the clock and see it's the time you usually leave the house, well, the rush is on.
Quicken up everything from brushing the teeth to walking (running?) to the car. Even though I caught up quickly here at the desk, there's going to be a feeling of being behind all day.
So, thanks for the snooze and darn you.
Whoever invented the snooze button on an alarm clock is either everybody's best friend or an evil genius.
Most days, I'm able to hit the snooze button a few times, pull myself out of bed and get ready for work.
Then there are those like today when the snooze saved and annoyed me at the same time.
The alarm went off as usual, I hit the snooze. Ten minutes later it rang, I snoozed. Then I either fell back asleep and hit the button in my sleep or I don't remember doing it. When you look at the clock and see it's the time you usually leave the house, well, the rush is on.
Quicken up everything from brushing the teeth to walking (running?) to the car. Even though I caught up quickly here at the desk, there's going to be a feeling of being behind all day.
So, thanks for the snooze and darn you.
The alarm clock - watch more funny videos
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Rise and Shine --- All over the map
Good Morning and let me off the roller coaster!
By the way, doesn't it seem odd when the Phillies are out on the Left Coast. Nobody goes to those games in Los Angeles anyway, so why not just make it easier for us here in the East by starting the games earlier.
Whatever.
Then again, you have people on this side of the country like THIS GUY
He says he lost a $1.35 Million painting while on a drunken bender.
So, your friends tell you to old on to this and what do you do? Go out, get loaded and lose the thing.
Sure. Sounds like a good story.
Now, we move back across the country to Washington. Here, a hiker lives in a cartoon world, apparently.
He shot himself in the butt after putting a handgun in his back pocket.
He was hiking up Blewett Pass, next time he should just go HERE
Of course, we can't all have as much time on our hands as this guy:
By the way, doesn't it seem odd when the Phillies are out on the Left Coast. Nobody goes to those games in Los Angeles anyway, so why not just make it easier for us here in the East by starting the games earlier.
Whatever.
Then again, you have people on this side of the country like THIS GUY
He says he lost a $1.35 Million painting while on a drunken bender.
So, your friends tell you to old on to this and what do you do? Go out, get loaded and lose the thing.
Sure. Sounds like a good story.
Now, we move back across the country to Washington. Here, a hiker lives in a cartoon world, apparently.
He shot himself in the butt after putting a handgun in his back pocket.
He was hiking up Blewett Pass, next time he should just go HERE
Of course, we can't all have as much time on our hands as this guy:
Super Cool Bowling Awesome Trick Shots - watch more funny videos
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Rise and Shine --- What weather?
Good Morning and once again I wasn't chosen for Dancing with the Stars!?!
Once December hits, there's no doubt (thanks to last winter) every chance of snow will turn into a big deal. There will be warnings. There will be panic. There will be plenty of ratings for TV news.
This week, we are hearing about hurricanes. They are coming up the coast. They are threatening to wash out Labor Day weekend. They are conspiring deep in the ocean like two tea party members deciding how a Glen Beck/Sarah Palin presidential ticket would look.
Really, though, it's tough to understand all this weather talk. It's not like we can do anything about it. Just pull out the rain slicker, snow boots or whatever and deal.
Then again, if there were no weathermen we wouldn't have this classic (worth repeating whenever):
Once December hits, there's no doubt (thanks to last winter) every chance of snow will turn into a big deal. There will be warnings. There will be panic. There will be plenty of ratings for TV news.
This week, we are hearing about hurricanes. They are coming up the coast. They are threatening to wash out Labor Day weekend. They are conspiring deep in the ocean like two tea party members deciding how a Glen Beck/Sarah Palin presidential ticket would look.
Really, though, it's tough to understand all this weather talk. It's not like we can do anything about it. Just pull out the rain slicker, snow boots or whatever and deal.
Then again, if there were no weathermen we wouldn't have this classic (worth repeating whenever):
Monday, August 30, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Butterflies
Good Morning and welcome to the end of summer!
The stomach is churning. The head is spinning. The hands are shaking. The nerves were enough to make sleep turn into a pointless proposition.
It's the first day of school. The children are fine (well, at least as fine as you can be heading to school after a couple months off). It's Dad who's trying to shake it off.
I know I worry too much, but this time of year always turns my stomach into a gymnastics meet.
I worry about Liam heading into middle school. I know he can handle the work, but it's a whole new world. I just want him to do the best he can. I want him to blossom. I don't want him to worry about lockers, books, new friends or old friends. He's been excited about the start of a new school year. He likes learning. I'm sure he'll do fine, but I can't help but want to wrap him up.
Brendan is going to a new school this year as a third-grader. He's tough. I know he'll adapt. I know he'll become a leader. He's the type other children follow, even those who don't know him. Still, I want to throw him on my shoulders and run.
Malena smiles. She dances. She sings. Now, she's off to kindergarten. The flower is blossoming. I'm going to watch the clock all day until school is done. Then, I'm going to swoop her up and not let go.
Most of all, though, I'll miss the fun of summer. I'll miss the late mornings and the bike rides. I'll miss the crazy arguments. I know time moves forward, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.
The stomach is churning. The head is spinning. The hands are shaking. The nerves were enough to make sleep turn into a pointless proposition.
It's the first day of school. The children are fine (well, at least as fine as you can be heading to school after a couple months off). It's Dad who's trying to shake it off.
I know I worry too much, but this time of year always turns my stomach into a gymnastics meet.
I worry about Liam heading into middle school. I know he can handle the work, but it's a whole new world. I just want him to do the best he can. I want him to blossom. I don't want him to worry about lockers, books, new friends or old friends. He's been excited about the start of a new school year. He likes learning. I'm sure he'll do fine, but I can't help but want to wrap him up.
Brendan is going to a new school this year as a third-grader. He's tough. I know he'll adapt. I know he'll become a leader. He's the type other children follow, even those who don't know him. Still, I want to throw him on my shoulders and run.
Malena smiles. She dances. She sings. Now, she's off to kindergarten. The flower is blossoming. I'm going to watch the clock all day until school is done. Then, I'm going to swoop her up and not let go.
Most of all, though, I'll miss the fun of summer. I'll miss the late mornings and the bike rides. I'll miss the crazy arguments. I know time moves forward, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Anything for a buck
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
So, with one eye open the other night, I saw a commercial pop up on the TV for something called the 'Snazzy Napper.'
I thought maybe it was some kind of bizarre nightmare or my subconcious telling me I need more sleep.
Anyway, here's what I saw:
After shaking the cobwebs, I thought it was some kind of joke or maybe it was a plot to turn us all Muslim (that comes from Fox News, by the way).
No, it's actually real. I dare anybody to get this and actually use it.
When we all stop laughing, you will be out the 25 bucks.
So, with one eye open the other night, I saw a commercial pop up on the TV for something called the 'Snazzy Napper.'
I thought maybe it was some kind of bizarre nightmare or my subconcious telling me I need more sleep.
Anyway, here's what I saw:
After shaking the cobwebs, I thought it was some kind of joke or maybe it was a plot to turn us all Muslim (that comes from Fox News, by the way).
No, it's actually real. I dare anybody to get this and actually use it.
When we all stop laughing, you will be out the 25 bucks.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Time to rest
Good Morning and I was wondering if it was worse that the Phillies lost or Brett Myers got the win?
Back in the day, I remember getting through most of the afternoon at school in a haze. It was OK in the morning, but by lunchtime, you could see the heads of your friends starting to dip every once in a while.
Knowing this, I tried to get classes that used little or no brain power late in the day.
Then, while taking a walk around the Internet yesterday, I stumbled on THIS STORY from the L.A. Times.
According to several studies, a later start time in school meant better grades and better behaved students.
Just think about it. Instead of rousting everybody out of bed and dressed (the first battle of the day), rushing through breakfast (the second), then running red lights and stop signs to get everybody there on time (the third), maybe going in an hour later wouldn't be so bad.
Everybody would be better rested. Students would be more engaged with their teachers. We might all be a little calmer.
Now, if I could only convince my bosses its a good idea.
Back in the day, I remember getting through most of the afternoon at school in a haze. It was OK in the morning, but by lunchtime, you could see the heads of your friends starting to dip every once in a while.
Knowing this, I tried to get classes that used little or no brain power late in the day.
Then, while taking a walk around the Internet yesterday, I stumbled on THIS STORY from the L.A. Times.
According to several studies, a later start time in school meant better grades and better behaved students.
Just think about it. Instead of rousting everybody out of bed and dressed (the first battle of the day), rushing through breakfast (the second), then running red lights and stop signs to get everybody there on time (the third), maybe going in an hour later wouldn't be so bad.
Everybody would be better rested. Students would be more engaged with their teachers. We might all be a little calmer.
Now, if I could only convince my bosses its a good idea.
Sleeping Policeman - watch more funny videos
Monday, August 23, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Not ready
Good Morning and welcome to another week!
A lot of people look at the beginning of a new school year as a celebration. You see commercials with parents jumping up and down as the children go off on the bus.
Well, with a week to go before another year begins, I don't feel that elation.
I know they have to go back some time, but it always comes to early for me. I enjoy running around with the young ones. I enjoy riding bikes. I even enjoy hearing the yelling (OK, not as much, but still...).
I like the noise. I miss the lazy afternoons swimming. I yearn for just one more minute outside throwing the ball around. I've enjoyed the museums, the walks, the runs this summer.
Pretty soon, it's going to be all about homework and getting ready for the next day.
I'm not ready for that. So, this week, I'll try to cram as much summer as we have left into every moment.
Really, for me, there's no other choice.
A lot of people look at the beginning of a new school year as a celebration. You see commercials with parents jumping up and down as the children go off on the bus.
Well, with a week to go before another year begins, I don't feel that elation.
I know they have to go back some time, but it always comes to early for me. I enjoy running around with the young ones. I enjoy riding bikes. I even enjoy hearing the yelling (OK, not as much, but still...).
I like the noise. I miss the lazy afternoons swimming. I yearn for just one more minute outside throwing the ball around. I've enjoyed the museums, the walks, the runs this summer.
Pretty soon, it's going to be all about homework and getting ready for the next day.
I'm not ready for that. So, this week, I'll try to cram as much summer as we have left into every moment.
Really, for me, there's no other choice.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Don't get it
Good Morning and how did it get to be August 19th?
Somebody at work asked me the other day to explain Twitter. He wanted to set up an account because "everybody else has one."
So, I attempted, rather unsuccessfully mind you, to describe the so-called Twitter web and how you follow people and get updates one what they are thinking or send messages back and forth, but not everybody sees the message, just those that follow that person unless they want to make it private.
Ten minutes later we were both more confused.
I understand the whole social media thing. It keeps connections between people like we've never had before. Facebook has allowed me to catch up with old friends.
The other day on the Daily Times Twitter account, though, I saw a Tweet that said, "I am finally Mayor McCheese."
OK. Great. Now where do you go from here.
Somebody at work asked me the other day to explain Twitter. He wanted to set up an account because "everybody else has one."
So, I attempted, rather unsuccessfully mind you, to describe the so-called Twitter web and how you follow people and get updates one what they are thinking or send messages back and forth, but not everybody sees the message, just those that follow that person unless they want to make it private.
Ten minutes later we were both more confused.
I understand the whole social media thing. It keeps connections between people like we've never had before. Facebook has allowed me to catch up with old friends.
The other day on the Daily Times Twitter account, though, I saw a Tweet that said, "I am finally Mayor McCheese."
OK. Great. Now where do you go from here.
Twitter: Tweet Tweet Mystery of Life? - watch more funny videos
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Rise and Shine --- A good walk spoiled
Good Morning and here we are again!
For a short time, golf seemed like a fun game. It gave a few hours of fun outside and a little bit of exercise (well, those times we didn't use a cart).
Then, playing the game became too expensive. When fees started reaching the $30 range, well, there were other (better?) things to do with the money.
A couple of weeks ago, the boys found the old clubs in the back of the garage. They pulled them out and started hitting balls around the front yard. Well, before any windows were broken or cars were dented, they were put away.
Now, the question comes all the time: "Can we go golfing?"
They've never been out on a regular course. Minature golf, though, seems to be keeping them at bay.
Hitting red (or orange or yellow) balls through various obstacles gives us a few laughs and some fun.
Most of those courses are down at the shore, but, not wanting to drive there every weekend, we've had to adapt. We've found 'courses' around the area.
It's only a matter of time, though, when the clubs are going to have to come out.
For a short time, golf seemed like a fun game. It gave a few hours of fun outside and a little bit of exercise (well, those times we didn't use a cart).
Then, playing the game became too expensive. When fees started reaching the $30 range, well, there were other (better?) things to do with the money.
A couple of weeks ago, the boys found the old clubs in the back of the garage. They pulled them out and started hitting balls around the front yard. Well, before any windows were broken or cars were dented, they were put away.
Now, the question comes all the time: "Can we go golfing?"
They've never been out on a regular course. Minature golf, though, seems to be keeping them at bay.
Hitting red (or orange or yellow) balls through various obstacles gives us a few laughs and some fun.
Most of those courses are down at the shore, but, not wanting to drive there every weekend, we've had to adapt. We've found 'courses' around the area.
It's only a matter of time, though, when the clubs are going to have to come out.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Rise and Shine --- On the camera
Good Morning and welcome to a steamy Tuesday!
Having spent all of my career at the keyboard, I got an eye-opening experience the last two nights.
For the first time in our history, we did live streaming video on www.delcotimes.com. Sunday night, we had the Daily Times/Exelon Champs 'n' Charity women's championship game and followed up with the men's slow pitch title tilt last night.
So, I dutifully carried the camera and computer to the fields and set everything up, confident we could capture the spirit of the events.
We did that, but, with only one camera, it wasn't always easy to follow the action.
You can watch a replay of both games here
Without being too self-congratulatory, we did a pretty good job. Anthony J. SanFilippo provided the voice (with help from Rob Parent and Terry Toohey). We were able to get a pretty good view of the games.
It's going to take practice, but, after a taste the last couple of days, it's something I think we should do a little more.
Having spent all of my career at the keyboard, I got an eye-opening experience the last two nights.
For the first time in our history, we did live streaming video on www.delcotimes.com. Sunday night, we had the Daily Times/Exelon Champs 'n' Charity women's championship game and followed up with the men's slow pitch title tilt last night.
So, I dutifully carried the camera and computer to the fields and set everything up, confident we could capture the spirit of the events.
We did that, but, with only one camera, it wasn't always easy to follow the action.
You can watch a replay of both games here
Without being too self-congratulatory, we did a pretty good job. Anthony J. SanFilippo provided the voice (with help from Rob Parent and Terry Toohey). We were able to get a pretty good view of the games.
It's going to take practice, but, after a taste the last couple of days, it's something I think we should do a little more.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Curse the rain
Good Morning and welcome to the final stretch of summer!
As we sweated through June and July, the one call was always for a little bit of rain. The grass needed it. The flowers needed it. Heck, our psyche needed it.
The rain, though, never seemed to really come. Sure, there were showers here and there, but not enough to keep the ground wet.
So, with summer winding down, Friday seemed like a good day take a little day trip.
With the little ones buckled down in their seats, it was time for a drive to Lancaster for a day at Dutch Wonderland.
As a youngster, our family seemed to go to Dutch Wonderland every year. Eventually, we would grow out of the 'Kingdom for Kids,' but it was always a fun place.
Driving up Route 30, it started to become obvious the day wasn't going to go as planned.
"Uh, it looks like it's drizzling," I announced.
A few miles later, after driving through some sizeable puddles, it became obvious it was going to be a little wet.
By the time we got to the park, the drenching had started. We pulled into the parking lot and watched it get harder.
Now came a dilemma. It's not like you can turn around and go home after the children had seen the park. Do you wait in the car? Do you wait in the (horrors) gift shop? Do you bang your head on the steering wheel?
They wanted to go in, so we took the gift shop option. A few hours and a few (hundred?) 'No, you can't get thats' later, the rain slowed and eventually stopped.
Now, if it can stay off the softball fields tonight.
As we sweated through June and July, the one call was always for a little bit of rain. The grass needed it. The flowers needed it. Heck, our psyche needed it.
The rain, though, never seemed to really come. Sure, there were showers here and there, but not enough to keep the ground wet.
So, with summer winding down, Friday seemed like a good day take a little day trip.
With the little ones buckled down in their seats, it was time for a drive to Lancaster for a day at Dutch Wonderland.
As a youngster, our family seemed to go to Dutch Wonderland every year. Eventually, we would grow out of the 'Kingdom for Kids,' but it was always a fun place.
Driving up Route 30, it started to become obvious the day wasn't going to go as planned.
"Uh, it looks like it's drizzling," I announced.
A few miles later, after driving through some sizeable puddles, it became obvious it was going to be a little wet.
By the time we got to the park, the drenching had started. We pulled into the parking lot and watched it get harder.
Now came a dilemma. It's not like you can turn around and go home after the children had seen the park. Do you wait in the car? Do you wait in the (horrors) gift shop? Do you bang your head on the steering wheel?
They wanted to go in, so we took the gift shop option. A few hours and a few (hundred?) 'No, you can't get thats' later, the rain slowed and eventually stopped.
Now, if it can stay off the softball fields tonight.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Public Serivice Announcement
Good Morning and it's a Friday (almost)!
Sunshine and superman:
Sunshine and superman:
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Rise and Shine --- People are sick
Good Morning and welcome back to another Wednesday!
As if I didn't believe it after going through our comment section every day, some people today have serious mental problems.
Yesterday, somebody called a Philadelphia hospital to say she threw three children over the side of the Ben Franklin Bridge and into the Delaware River. The Coast Guard searched for most of the day before finally giving up.
Today, many believe it was some kind of hoax. I'm sure whoever did make the call (and, hopefully, this is all it was) is laughing like crazy while sitting in their basement.
"Ho. Ho. Ho. It's so funny. I tricked everybody. Ha. Ha. Ha!"
That's just not right and not funny at all. The next step is this person might actually do something like throw somebody off a bridge because they need a bigger kick.
Hopefully whoever did this will stay in the basement and leave the rest of us alone.
Now, onto a different note, CLICK HERE to help out Brendan's Buddies in the Walk4Hearing.
As if I didn't believe it after going through our comment section every day, some people today have serious mental problems.
Yesterday, somebody called a Philadelphia hospital to say she threw three children over the side of the Ben Franklin Bridge and into the Delaware River. The Coast Guard searched for most of the day before finally giving up.
Today, many believe it was some kind of hoax. I'm sure whoever did make the call (and, hopefully, this is all it was) is laughing like crazy while sitting in their basement.
"Ho. Ho. Ho. It's so funny. I tricked everybody. Ha. Ha. Ha!"
That's just not right and not funny at all. The next step is this person might actually do something like throw somebody off a bridge because they need a bigger kick.
Hopefully whoever did this will stay in the basement and leave the rest of us alone.
Now, onto a different note, CLICK HERE to help out Brendan's Buddies in the Walk4Hearing.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Rise and Shine --- What's next?
Good Morning and welcome into the fire!
Don't pretend you've never thought about. If you would win the lottery or something, how would you leave your job.
Would you just walk out the front door? Would you throw a big party? Would you tell off your boss and everybody else at the office 'who've deserved it all these years?'
Would you do what this JetBlue flight attendant did in New York Monday.
Hey, if your going to go out, go out in grand fashion.
Of course, in this economy, even if you win the lottery it might be better to just keep your options open.
Me, I'd probably just call and say I won the lottery and would be taking some 'vacation.' Others I know would give two weeks notice, then leave.
At least it's fun to think about.
By the way, if you can, help sponsor Brendan's Buddies at www.walk4hearing.org.
Now, this:
Don't pretend you've never thought about. If you would win the lottery or something, how would you leave your job.
Would you just walk out the front door? Would you throw a big party? Would you tell off your boss and everybody else at the office 'who've deserved it all these years?'
Would you do what this JetBlue flight attendant did in New York Monday.
Hey, if your going to go out, go out in grand fashion.
Of course, in this economy, even if you win the lottery it might be better to just keep your options open.
Me, I'd probably just call and say I won the lottery and would be taking some 'vacation.' Others I know would give two weeks notice, then leave.
At least it's fun to think about.
By the way, if you can, help sponsor Brendan's Buddies at www.walk4hearing.org.
Now, this:
Monday, August 9, 2010
Rise and Shine --- The simple things
Good Morning and welcome back to the work week after a fantastic weekend!
You know, growing up mostly healthy (sure there was chicken pox and the like, but nothing serious), it's easy to think everybody is the same.
Well, now we know they are not. There are amazing people who have battled various disabilities from Day 1 and don't let it stop them.
Sunday there was a kick-off event for this year's Walk4Hearing. Now, I know, there are walks for everything these days. There are Cancer walks, AIDS walks, MS walks. Name a cause and there's something put together that helps a lot of people and gets everybody out for a nice day.
Today, I want to talk about the Walk4Hearing.
Anybody who has a child knows they do hearing scans the first days after birth. When Brendan was born, we dutifully walked him down to the scan center and they put the headphones on his tiny head.
The readout came back as a fail for his right ear.
OK, the nurse said, that happens sometimes right after birth. We'll check it in a day or two.
Well, the same result came back. So, we were sent to a specialist. They told us he had hearing loss in the right ear, but it shouldn't affect him until he gets school age.
So, Brendan went through the early years just like anybody else. Well, anybody who had a daredevil mentality and thought it was a good idea to dive, head first, off the couch into the floor, then dust himself off and do it again.
Once school started, though, it became apparent Brendan was going to need some help. In a big classroom, he couldn't always hear the teacher. As you can well imagine, any young student who can't hear the teacher will do things the teacher doesn't want done.
When he got to first grade, he was able to get an FM System, which not only allowed him to hear what the teacher was saying, but helped make him a better student.
As he heads into third grade, he's still jumping out of trees (and debating Star Wars with his brother) and the system helps his brain break down the sounds around him.
So, for the second year, we will take part in the Walk4Hearing at Ridley Creek State Park Saturday, Sept. 25.
It's a fun time with games, food and, of course, walking. Everybody laughs. Everybody has fun.
If you can, check out our page for Brendan's Buddies at www.walk4hearing.com
It's close to our heart.
You know, growing up mostly healthy (sure there was chicken pox and the like, but nothing serious), it's easy to think everybody is the same.
Well, now we know they are not. There are amazing people who have battled various disabilities from Day 1 and don't let it stop them.
Sunday there was a kick-off event for this year's Walk4Hearing. Now, I know, there are walks for everything these days. There are Cancer walks, AIDS walks, MS walks. Name a cause and there's something put together that helps a lot of people and gets everybody out for a nice day.
Today, I want to talk about the Walk4Hearing.
Anybody who has a child knows they do hearing scans the first days after birth. When Brendan was born, we dutifully walked him down to the scan center and they put the headphones on his tiny head.
The readout came back as a fail for his right ear.
OK, the nurse said, that happens sometimes right after birth. We'll check it in a day or two.
Well, the same result came back. So, we were sent to a specialist. They told us he had hearing loss in the right ear, but it shouldn't affect him until he gets school age.
So, Brendan went through the early years just like anybody else. Well, anybody who had a daredevil mentality and thought it was a good idea to dive, head first, off the couch into the floor, then dust himself off and do it again.
Once school started, though, it became apparent Brendan was going to need some help. In a big classroom, he couldn't always hear the teacher. As you can well imagine, any young student who can't hear the teacher will do things the teacher doesn't want done.
When he got to first grade, he was able to get an FM System, which not only allowed him to hear what the teacher was saying, but helped make him a better student.
As he heads into third grade, he's still jumping out of trees (and debating Star Wars with his brother) and the system helps his brain break down the sounds around him.
So, for the second year, we will take part in the Walk4Hearing at Ridley Creek State Park Saturday, Sept. 25.
It's a fun time with games, food and, of course, walking. Everybody laughs. Everybody has fun.
If you can, check out our page for Brendan's Buddies at www.walk4hearing.com
It's close to our heart.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Don't get it
Good Morning and, remember, if you really need a ride to the liquor store, don't call 911!
So, yesterday afternoon, a judge in California overturned Prop 8, the referendum that passed last year banning same sex marriage.
"Because Proposition 8 disadvantages gays and lesbians without any rational justification, Proposition 8 violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment," the judge wrote in his decision.
Within minutes of the ruling, Twitter was twitting with post after post both for and against the ruling. What really is amazing is those who supported Prop 8 got so nasty so quick it was almost scary.
There were threats. There was hate. There was some pseudo-religious defense of the ban.
The bottom line is, no matter what you think of the whole deal, people should be allowed to get married whether gay or straight.
The big debate heading into this election season is about government involvement. Some, especially those who like to yell down any argument, think we need more freedom. We need to be able to do what we want when we want no matter what our elected officials say.
Then, they say we need government bans on things they don't agree with.
Can't have it both ways, sorry.
So, yesterday afternoon, a judge in California overturned Prop 8, the referendum that passed last year banning same sex marriage.
"Because Proposition 8 disadvantages gays and lesbians without any rational justification, Proposition 8 violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment," the judge wrote in his decision.
Within minutes of the ruling, Twitter was twitting with post after post both for and against the ruling. What really is amazing is those who supported Prop 8 got so nasty so quick it was almost scary.
There were threats. There was hate. There was some pseudo-religious defense of the ban.
The bottom line is, no matter what you think of the whole deal, people should be allowed to get married whether gay or straight.
The big debate heading into this election season is about government involvement. Some, especially those who like to yell down any argument, think we need more freedom. We need to be able to do what we want when we want no matter what our elected officials say.
Then, they say we need government bans on things they don't agree with.
Can't have it both ways, sorry.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Sounds of summer
Good Morning and welcome to a Wednesday in a long line of Wednesdays!
Usually, one of the good things about summer is you can sit outside (maybe with a cool beverage) and enjoy looking at the stars and listening to the crickets. Maybe you can run around a little bit, play tag or kick-the-can or something.
This year, though, it's been virtually impossible. The mosquitoes are just out of hand.
Last night, for instance, we spent more time slapping our legs (missing those blasted things) than playing anything. After about five minutes it was back in the house for some serious scratching.
Now, I know nature is nature, but, come on, it's getting ridiculous. Sure, we can use a can of Off or something and get some relief, but a can a night is a bit too much. Those citronella candles don't seem to work on this bunch.
We shouldn't have to wear a hazmat suit just to go outside on a nice summer night.
Then again, it might be better than the slaps.
Usually, one of the good things about summer is you can sit outside (maybe with a cool beverage) and enjoy looking at the stars and listening to the crickets. Maybe you can run around a little bit, play tag or kick-the-can or something.
This year, though, it's been virtually impossible. The mosquitoes are just out of hand.
Last night, for instance, we spent more time slapping our legs (missing those blasted things) than playing anything. After about five minutes it was back in the house for some serious scratching.
Now, I know nature is nature, but, come on, it's getting ridiculous. Sure, we can use a can of Off or something and get some relief, but a can a night is a bit too much. Those citronella candles don't seem to work on this bunch.
We shouldn't have to wear a hazmat suit just to go outside on a nice summer night.
Then again, it might be better than the slaps.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Huh?
Good Morning and welcome to the second day of the work week!
So, there are a bunch of people in New York city who are upset about the potential of a Mosque being built near the site of the World Trade Center.
They are talking about hallowed ground. They are yelling about disrespect. They are threatening to stand in the way of the builders.
What they are really doing is continuing to push a stereotype. Sure, it was some extreme radicals who flew that plane into the buildings, but, if we've learned anything over the years, it should be there are radical people everywhere.
It doesn't mean you can just lop a whole bunch of people into one group.
Look, I'm not going to say people haven't been, and continue to be, touched by the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. Too many people died for no reason other than one group wanted to cause harm.
Just because there is a potential of a Mosque being built near the site doesn't mean we are giving into the radicals. What's the difference if a Catholic Church or a Mormon Temple were to be built?
In the end, as the years continue to tick off, it should be about healing and tolerance, not more hate.
So, there are a bunch of people in New York city who are upset about the potential of a Mosque being built near the site of the World Trade Center.
They are talking about hallowed ground. They are yelling about disrespect. They are threatening to stand in the way of the builders.
What they are really doing is continuing to push a stereotype. Sure, it was some extreme radicals who flew that plane into the buildings, but, if we've learned anything over the years, it should be there are radical people everywhere.
It doesn't mean you can just lop a whole bunch of people into one group.
Look, I'm not going to say people haven't been, and continue to be, touched by the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. Too many people died for no reason other than one group wanted to cause harm.
Just because there is a potential of a Mosque being built near the site doesn't mean we are giving into the radicals. What's the difference if a Catholic Church or a Mormon Temple were to be built?
In the end, as the years continue to tick off, it should be about healing and tolerance, not more hate.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Rise and Shine --- No flipping
Good Morning and welcome to August!
Ever since I discovered the remote control, television commercials became a way to see what else was happening around the dial (or buttons).
Oh, that annoying Fiber One commercial is on again, see how the Phillies are doing. OK, now it's followed by Ford and some annoying guy wearing a ball cap. Check out the stuff being made on Iron Chef.
So, it being summer and all, I let the children watch television later at night. Usually, it's some inane cartoon on the Cartoon Network or, more often than not, some kind of Star Wars offshoot.
Now, while commercials on 'adult' television shows are annoying or sometimes funny, those shone during 'kids' shows are downright brain melting or a something that shows an unhealthy lifestyle.
So, when those things come on during these hot summer nights, I grab the remote and, more often than not, switch over to the baseball game.
"NOOOOOOO!" comes the first yell.
"I hate baseball!" is a quick follow-up.
I'm just checking the score, I say.
"Why don't you like commercials? They are great," comes another voice.
Well, I don't have any money and I'm not really hungry, so I'd rather not see them.
"Come on, they are better than baseball."
Uh, no and we'll switch ba..
"Switch now, the commercials are over."
I just turned it, give it a minute.
"This is the boring life of boring."
OK, time for bed.
Ever since I discovered the remote control, television commercials became a way to see what else was happening around the dial (or buttons).
Oh, that annoying Fiber One commercial is on again, see how the Phillies are doing. OK, now it's followed by Ford and some annoying guy wearing a ball cap. Check out the stuff being made on Iron Chef.
So, it being summer and all, I let the children watch television later at night. Usually, it's some inane cartoon on the Cartoon Network or, more often than not, some kind of Star Wars offshoot.
Now, while commercials on 'adult' television shows are annoying or sometimes funny, those shone during 'kids' shows are downright brain melting or a something that shows an unhealthy lifestyle.
So, when those things come on during these hot summer nights, I grab the remote and, more often than not, switch over to the baseball game.
"NOOOOOOO!" comes the first yell.
"I hate baseball!" is a quick follow-up.
I'm just checking the score, I say.
"Why don't you like commercials? They are great," comes another voice.
Well, I don't have any money and I'm not really hungry, so I'd rather not see them.
"Come on, they are better than baseball."
Uh, no and we'll switch ba..
"Switch now, the commercials are over."
I just turned it, give it a minute.
"This is the boring life of boring."
OK, time for bed.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Take a number
Good Morning and welcome back to the Internet!
So, most of the time I know where important documents are located. They are all together in one box next to the computer. I have birth certificates, passports, car titles, deeds, whatever.
They are all in the box.
Yeah, right.
I needed to find a birth certificate for one of the boys this week. So, as I am apt to do, I waited until the last minute to pull out the box. Everything was in there except the one I needed.
So, a quick search on the Internet led me to the Bureau of Vital Statistics downtown.
That was about the quickest part of the day.
Walking into the office, we were told to take a number and a seat. Well, the number we got was 310. The number they were on was 255.
That's when I knew we were in for trouble.
"I've been here for two hours," said one disgruntled soul.
"Two hours?" said another. "I came at noon."
Now, the process is pretty simple. You fill out a form, then, when your number is finally called, you hand it to the office worker.
Should be no more than a five minute transaction.
After 90 minutes of waiting, we heard every kind of argument known to man.
"Well, I didn't know you needed a form." "What do you mean I need ID." "Hey, he butted in line." "I don't have cash, will you take an I.O.U."
So, when 310 was finally called, we went to the window. About 30 seconds later, we were out the door.
Maybe it wasn't really brain surgery.
Reminded me of this:
So, most of the time I know where important documents are located. They are all together in one box next to the computer. I have birth certificates, passports, car titles, deeds, whatever.
They are all in the box.
Yeah, right.
I needed to find a birth certificate for one of the boys this week. So, as I am apt to do, I waited until the last minute to pull out the box. Everything was in there except the one I needed.
So, a quick search on the Internet led me to the Bureau of Vital Statistics downtown.
That was about the quickest part of the day.
Walking into the office, we were told to take a number and a seat. Well, the number we got was 310. The number they were on was 255.
That's when I knew we were in for trouble.
"I've been here for two hours," said one disgruntled soul.
"Two hours?" said another. "I came at noon."
Now, the process is pretty simple. You fill out a form, then, when your number is finally called, you hand it to the office worker.
Should be no more than a five minute transaction.
After 90 minutes of waiting, we heard every kind of argument known to man.
"Well, I didn't know you needed a form." "What do you mean I need ID." "Hey, he butted in line." "I don't have cash, will you take an I.O.U."
So, when 310 was finally called, we went to the window. About 30 seconds later, we were out the door.
Maybe it wasn't really brain surgery.
Reminded me of this:
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Bad apples
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
Over the weekend, while swimming on a day it felt like the sun was going to land on the earth, the children (as most children do in the summer) started begging for ice cream.
"Look," I said. "Right now we are in the pool. If there's no fighting and no bad behavior, maybe after dinner we can take a ride to the ice cream place."
"Yay," the three yelled in unison.
Well, if anybody's ever had to calm tensions during a hot weekend day, the peace didn't last long.
"He splashed me." "He kicked me." "She threw a ball at me."
"OK," I said (yelled?). "One more chance. If anybody does anything to anybody else, no ice cream."
Not even ten minute later: "Waaahhh."
"All right," I said. "No ice cream."
To which, one of the children who really was just swimming calmly said: "But I didn't do anything. That's not fair."
So, I tried to teach a lesson.
"If one of you does something, everybody loses. You have to police each other. My grandmom used to say one bad apple poisons the basket."
So, what does this have to do with the price of milk? Well, nothing with milk, but I started thinking about this after hearing a story about something that happened last night.
People sometimes believe the comments that appear on the bottom of our online stories are part of the Daily Times coverage.
They're not, but that doesn't mean the comments can't cause trouble.
We spend much of the day putting out these small fires before they burn down the whole forest. We are recognizing the e-mails used to post racist rants. We check hourly to see those that slipped through.
An inherent problem with our commenting system right now is it's all anonymous. Everybody wants to put in their two-cents, but they don't want to be held accountable.
Eventually, I believe, we are going to change as a business and only allow comments with real names (something like Facebook does now).
Until then, believe you me, much of the day is spent going through the comments and stopping them before they can do much damage.
Some of the stories will now be posted with the commenting feature disabled. Sure, that's not going to sit well with some.
To those who don't like it, write a letter to the editor. You have to sign your real name and we do check.
So, if there is a story that doesn't give you the opportunity to comment, remember the story about the bad apples.
Over the weekend, while swimming on a day it felt like the sun was going to land on the earth, the children (as most children do in the summer) started begging for ice cream.
"Look," I said. "Right now we are in the pool. If there's no fighting and no bad behavior, maybe after dinner we can take a ride to the ice cream place."
"Yay," the three yelled in unison.
Well, if anybody's ever had to calm tensions during a hot weekend day, the peace didn't last long.
"He splashed me." "He kicked me." "She threw a ball at me."
"OK," I said (yelled?). "One more chance. If anybody does anything to anybody else, no ice cream."
Not even ten minute later: "Waaahhh."
"All right," I said. "No ice cream."
To which, one of the children who really was just swimming calmly said: "But I didn't do anything. That's not fair."
So, I tried to teach a lesson.
"If one of you does something, everybody loses. You have to police each other. My grandmom used to say one bad apple poisons the basket."
So, what does this have to do with the price of milk? Well, nothing with milk, but I started thinking about this after hearing a story about something that happened last night.
People sometimes believe the comments that appear on the bottom of our online stories are part of the Daily Times coverage.
They're not, but that doesn't mean the comments can't cause trouble.
We spend much of the day putting out these small fires before they burn down the whole forest. We are recognizing the e-mails used to post racist rants. We check hourly to see those that slipped through.
An inherent problem with our commenting system right now is it's all anonymous. Everybody wants to put in their two-cents, but they don't want to be held accountable.
Eventually, I believe, we are going to change as a business and only allow comments with real names (something like Facebook does now).
Until then, believe you me, much of the day is spent going through the comments and stopping them before they can do much damage.
Some of the stories will now be posted with the commenting feature disabled. Sure, that's not going to sit well with some.
To those who don't like it, write a letter to the editor. You have to sign your real name and we do check.
So, if there is a story that doesn't give you the opportunity to comment, remember the story about the bad apples.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Where to stand
Good Morning and a big welcome back to Tuesday! Haven't seen you in about a week!
One of the best things about baseball(maybe slightly behind a cold beer and pool and a radio) is the ability to argue about the game and the players.
Who's the best player ever/now? What can the Phillies do to salvage the season? Do they need to make a move? If they would have kept Cliff Lee would they be running away with it?
(Quick answers: Willie Mays, Albert Pujols; hit better; they could always use more pitching; no).
So it was as Brad Lidge was making another victory feel as close to a loss as possible, the discussion focused on Phillies pitching.
"Use somebody else as the closer," someone shouted. "Trade them all," said somebody else. "This team never makes anything easy," came from a different island. "Do you want another one?" was said out of the blue.
Unlike football, which the Eagles are going to attempt to play some version of this year, baseball gives us plenty of time to dissect, discuss and debate.
Now, if we could just get see one easy win.
One of the best things about baseball(maybe slightly behind a cold beer and pool and a radio) is the ability to argue about the game and the players.
Who's the best player ever/now? What can the Phillies do to salvage the season? Do they need to make a move? If they would have kept Cliff Lee would they be running away with it?
(Quick answers: Willie Mays, Albert Pujols; hit better; they could always use more pitching; no).
So it was as Brad Lidge was making another victory feel as close to a loss as possible, the discussion focused on Phillies pitching.
"Use somebody else as the closer," someone shouted. "Trade them all," said somebody else. "This team never makes anything easy," came from a different island. "Do you want another one?" was said out of the blue.
Unlike football, which the Eagles are going to attempt to play some version of this year, baseball gives us plenty of time to dissect, discuss and debate.
Now, if we could just get see one easy win.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Rise and Shine ---- Just do it
Good Morning and welcome to a break from the heat!
So, if you missed THIS STORY last week, you missed a good laugh.
Now, the story about Travis Kevie seems like a slice of American life. He saw a need for a bar in a town and opened one up. It was a feel-good story we all search for in this crazy world.
The fallout, though, was that Kevie didn't actually own the bar he opened.
He just happened to stumble upon it with a six-pack and decided, hey, this looks pretty good.
So, he went to the store, picked up a couple more six packs and was open for business. If a costumer asked for something he didn't have, he ran across the street to pick it up.
It was all going pretty good. The residents were happy to have their watering hole back and Kevie was living a live-long dream.
Then he decided it was a good idea to be written up in the local newspaper, complete with a photo of Kevie in front of his 'new place.'
The police admit he probably could have gone on for months if it wasn't for the story.
See, the power of the press.
So, if you missed THIS STORY last week, you missed a good laugh.
Now, the story about Travis Kevie seems like a slice of American life. He saw a need for a bar in a town and opened one up. It was a feel-good story we all search for in this crazy world.
The fallout, though, was that Kevie didn't actually own the bar he opened.
He just happened to stumble upon it with a six-pack and decided, hey, this looks pretty good.
So, he went to the store, picked up a couple more six packs and was open for business. If a costumer asked for something he didn't have, he ran across the street to pick it up.
It was all going pretty good. The residents were happy to have their watering hole back and Kevie was living a live-long dream.
Then he decided it was a good idea to be written up in the local newspaper, complete with a photo of Kevie in front of his 'new place.'
The police admit he probably could have gone on for months if it wasn't for the story.
See, the power of the press.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Rise and Shine ---- Is it really 2010?
Good Morning and welcome to an oil-spill free day!
So, while going through the usual Internet sites this morning, I stumbled upon THIS STORY out of Memphis.
So, some people fear they will face discrimination if the city puts in a ban against gay discrimination. Just when I thought maybe we were becoming more broad-minded, here comes another slap across the face.
So, we can be tolerant of some people, just as long as we don't have to actually be tolerant.
So says the genius behind the protest: "It's going to discriminate against people of faith who are Christians in their worldview, and I believe with all my heart that they have rights too," says Bellevue Baptist Church Pastor Steven Gaines.
Huh? I thought religion was all about accepting people. Guess I missed too many Sunday school classes.
Next, these groups are going to say hiring somebody is wrong because, well, we say so.
Actually, this might be another shortcoming of our now 24-hour news cycle. Every wacko with an opinion can get, at least, a couple of minutes on Fox.
So, while going through the usual Internet sites this morning, I stumbled upon THIS STORY out of Memphis.
So, some people fear they will face discrimination if the city puts in a ban against gay discrimination. Just when I thought maybe we were becoming more broad-minded, here comes another slap across the face.
So, we can be tolerant of some people, just as long as we don't have to actually be tolerant.
So says the genius behind the protest: "It's going to discriminate against people of faith who are Christians in their worldview, and I believe with all my heart that they have rights too," says Bellevue Baptist Church Pastor Steven Gaines.
Huh? I thought religion was all about accepting people. Guess I missed too many Sunday school classes.
Next, these groups are going to say hiring somebody is wrong because, well, we say so.
Actually, this might be another shortcoming of our now 24-hour news cycle. Every wacko with an opinion can get, at least, a couple of minutes on Fox.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Iced tea
Good Morning and welcome back to the soup!
So, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Joe Biden were in Philadelphia yesterday morning for a fundraiser to help Bryan Lentz in his battle with Pat Meehan for the 7th District House seat.
As usual for these events, they were met by a group of protesters. Truth be told, there are protesters out for every political event. Those Lyndon LaRouche people have mad this an art.
This year, though, there can't be an event without Tea Partiers hanging out with signs. It was telling, though, when interviewed the head Tea Partier was asked what policies she didn't like about the current administration.
Her response: "Well, all of them."
When pressed for specifics, she said: "Obamacare and all the other legislative decisions."
So, after seeing this interview on TV, does anybody really know what the those people were protesting?
Do they go out there just to be seen? Are they pushing a different agenda? Do they not like the president because of the color of his skin? Is it much ado about nothing?
It looks from here that this is a vocal minority who gets coverage now because we have to fill all that time with something.
Lyndon LaRouche must be thinking he came along too soon.
Then again, maybe it is about something else:
So, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Joe Biden were in Philadelphia yesterday morning for a fundraiser to help Bryan Lentz in his battle with Pat Meehan for the 7th District House seat.
As usual for these events, they were met by a group of protesters. Truth be told, there are protesters out for every political event. Those Lyndon LaRouche people have mad this an art.
This year, though, there can't be an event without Tea Partiers hanging out with signs. It was telling, though, when interviewed the head Tea Partier was asked what policies she didn't like about the current administration.
Her response: "Well, all of them."
When pressed for specifics, she said: "Obamacare and all the other legislative decisions."
So, after seeing this interview on TV, does anybody really know what the those people were protesting?
Do they go out there just to be seen? Are they pushing a different agenda? Do they not like the president because of the color of his skin? Is it much ado about nothing?
It looks from here that this is a vocal minority who gets coverage now because we have to fill all that time with something.
Lyndon LaRouche must be thinking he came along too soon.
Then again, maybe it is about something else:
Monday, July 19, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Nah, nothing wrong
Good Morning and here's hoping we don't melt today!
So, here we have a report today saying we just went through the hottest June in history.
Anybody who had to peal themselves off the couch yesterday knows we are probably headed for the hottest July in history. Woo Hoo, can't wait until August.
Now, the heat in itself wouldn't be a big deal if we weren't coming off a winter with so much snow we were calling for the heat.
So, here's where we sit. We are a nation of extremes (we're talking weather here not Tea Party).
Still, looking back, it doesn't seem the winter was all so bad. You go out, shovel, go back in, have a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, then craw under a blanket.
The heat, though, is something completely different.
There is only so much you can do besides sitting in an air-conditioned room (something PECO full-heartedly endorses). So far this summer, we've tried the mall, the movies, grandmom's pool, the basement and the Franklin. It all gives a break for a little bit, but the heat comes flying back.
So, I'll leave you with this as I try to figure out if putting ice in underwear is the next, best step:
So, here we have a report today saying we just went through the hottest June in history.
Anybody who had to peal themselves off the couch yesterday knows we are probably headed for the hottest July in history. Woo Hoo, can't wait until August.
Now, the heat in itself wouldn't be a big deal if we weren't coming off a winter with so much snow we were calling for the heat.
So, here's where we sit. We are a nation of extremes (we're talking weather here not Tea Party).
Still, looking back, it doesn't seem the winter was all so bad. You go out, shovel, go back in, have a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, then craw under a blanket.
The heat, though, is something completely different.
There is only so much you can do besides sitting in an air-conditioned room (something PECO full-heartedly endorses). So far this summer, we've tried the mall, the movies, grandmom's pool, the basement and the Franklin. It all gives a break for a little bit, but the heat comes flying back.
So, I'll leave you with this as I try to figure out if putting ice in underwear is the next, best step:
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Blowing bubbles
Good Morning and welcome to the inside of a bubble!
So, now there are those who want Arizona's ridiculous immigration law to come to Pennsylvania.
There's even a story where nine states are backing Arizona in a lawsuit against the federal government.
So, we want less government involvement in our daily lives, but we also want more involvement. We don't want to be told where we can come and go, but it's OK to tell other people where they can go. We want all incumbents thrown out of office, but they better make damn sure they pass laws to help us first.
Sometimes, I wonder why I didn't buy stock in Advil when it first was available.
So, in the spirit of Arizona, here are a couple other laws needed:
1. All drivers must turn their radio up to ear-blasting levels. After all, there's nothing better than sitting at a red light, have somebody pull up beside you and be treated to their taste in music.
2. Get rid of all stop signs. Imagine the savings for each township. They wouldn't have to spend money making and replacing signs. They're pretty much ignored anyway.
3. Everybody must eat at a fast-food joint at least three times a week. Hey, we can't afford health care, might as well bring about the end a little quicker.
4. You can throw eggs at anybody who complains about the weather. Yeah, it's hot in the summer. Yeah, it snows in the winter. Yeah, the sky is blue. Yeah, you're an idiot for complaining about it.
5. If you don't want to do something at work, just don't do it. Sure, we are all happy to have jobs, but come on. Sometimes they ask us to do things like get off the Internet or stop posting to Facebook. That's just not right. Our Grandfathers and Grandmothers fought for these kinds of rights.
Well, that's all I have. OK, one more:
6. You must read Rise and Shine every day. Hey, it's worth a try.
So, now there are those who want Arizona's ridiculous immigration law to come to Pennsylvania.
There's even a story where nine states are backing Arizona in a lawsuit against the federal government.
So, we want less government involvement in our daily lives, but we also want more involvement. We don't want to be told where we can come and go, but it's OK to tell other people where they can go. We want all incumbents thrown out of office, but they better make damn sure they pass laws to help us first.
Sometimes, I wonder why I didn't buy stock in Advil when it first was available.
So, in the spirit of Arizona, here are a couple other laws needed:
1. All drivers must turn their radio up to ear-blasting levels. After all, there's nothing better than sitting at a red light, have somebody pull up beside you and be treated to their taste in music.
2. Get rid of all stop signs. Imagine the savings for each township. They wouldn't have to spend money making and replacing signs. They're pretty much ignored anyway.
3. Everybody must eat at a fast-food joint at least three times a week. Hey, we can't afford health care, might as well bring about the end a little quicker.
4. You can throw eggs at anybody who complains about the weather. Yeah, it's hot in the summer. Yeah, it snows in the winter. Yeah, the sky is blue. Yeah, you're an idiot for complaining about it.
5. If you don't want to do something at work, just don't do it. Sure, we are all happy to have jobs, but come on. Sometimes they ask us to do things like get off the Internet or stop posting to Facebook. That's just not right. Our Grandfathers and Grandmothers fought for these kinds of rights.
Well, that's all I have. OK, one more:
6. You must read Rise and Shine every day. Hey, it's worth a try.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Rise and Shine --- They lied
Good Morning and welcome to the rain followed by the heat!
"It's not raining! Who said it was going to rain?"
Well, the weather experts keep saying we are going to get a lot of rain tonight.
"But, I don't see any rain," continued the precocious 5-year old. "It's sunny. I don't see any black clouds."
I'd love to take a nice, long bike ride, but I don't want us to get caught if there is a thunderstorm.
"It's not going to rain. I don't see any rain."
Let's just wait until tomorrow. If it does rain, we would get caught trying to scramble underneath a tree for who knows how long.
"Whoever said it was going to rain is stupid. Just look out the window. There's no rain."
Looks like I have a new weather forecaster. Who needs all the radar and fancy computers. It turns out a 5-year old has a little more insight.
So, for all you who waited for it to rain yesterday (after the morning deluge of course), here's an oldie but a goodie:
"It's not raining! Who said it was going to rain?"
Well, the weather experts keep saying we are going to get a lot of rain tonight.
"But, I don't see any rain," continued the precocious 5-year old. "It's sunny. I don't see any black clouds."
I'd love to take a nice, long bike ride, but I don't want us to get caught if there is a thunderstorm.
"It's not going to rain. I don't see any rain."
Let's just wait until tomorrow. If it does rain, we would get caught trying to scramble underneath a tree for who knows how long.
"Whoever said it was going to rain is stupid. Just look out the window. There's no rain."
Looks like I have a new weather forecaster. Who needs all the radar and fancy computers. It turns out a 5-year old has a little more insight.
So, for all you who waited for it to rain yesterday (after the morning deluge of course), here's an oldie but a goodie:
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Rise and Shine --- Messed up
Good Morning and welcome back to the fray!
So, ever get so tired after work you just lay down and, the next thing you know, it's the next morning? I'm sure plenty of times you've fallen asleep in front of the TV only to be awoken hours later by the sound of some infomercial.
So, yesterday after getting done work, I yawned my way home. It was nice out, so I figured it was a good day to do some wash and maybe a little yard work.
Got home, got changed, put my head down (you know, for just five minutes or so?) and the next thing I know it was midnight.
Now, what to do? You could get up, maybe make a snack and watch TV for a little bit. That might start a pattern of weird sleep, though. You could try to go back to sleep, but all those hours probably have your brain ready to go.
So, what to do? What to do?
Well, I tried a combination of both. Had a couple of cookies, some tea and sat in front of the TV. It lasted for about an hour, so I tried the bed mode again.
When the alarm went off at 3:30, it wasn't a pleasant sound.
Now, we'll see how this afternoon goes.
So, ever get so tired after work you just lay down and, the next thing you know, it's the next morning? I'm sure plenty of times you've fallen asleep in front of the TV only to be awoken hours later by the sound of some infomercial.
So, yesterday after getting done work, I yawned my way home. It was nice out, so I figured it was a good day to do some wash and maybe a little yard work.
Got home, got changed, put my head down (you know, for just five minutes or so?) and the next thing I know it was midnight.
Now, what to do? You could get up, maybe make a snack and watch TV for a little bit. That might start a pattern of weird sleep, though. You could try to go back to sleep, but all those hours probably have your brain ready to go.
So, what to do? What to do?
Well, I tried a combination of both. Had a couple of cookies, some tea and sat in front of the TV. It lasted for about an hour, so I tried the bed mode again.
When the alarm went off at 3:30, it wasn't a pleasant sound.
Now, we'll see how this afternoon goes.
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