Good Morning and who turned up the heat?
Boo Hoo. Michael Vick had a tough time in prison.
Boo Hoo. Michael Vick didn't have a chance to play in the NFL.
Boo Hoo. Michael Vick had to give up a $135 million contract.
Boo Hoo. Michael Vick feels bad for the dogs.
Boo Hoo. Boo Hoo. Boo Hoo.
Since there isn't much we can do about it, Michael Vick will be playing for the Eagles this year. He'll probably score a key touchdown. He'll be shown on ESPN. He'll be cheered by those at the stadium who have no choice after shelling out thousands of dollars for tickets.
For all those who are now lauding the signing of Vick had better carry that attitude through life. If you are in a position of hiring somebody some day and that person is a convicted felon, their application better not be thrown into the trash.
If Michael Vick, convicted felon, deserves a second chance so do those who can't throw a ball.
By the way, I want to thank the Eagles for saving me some money by handing Michael Vick, dog killer, $1.5 million.
How? I had been toying with the idea of taking my boys to an Eagles game at some point. Even though it's not exactly a family friendly experience, I thought they might have fun seeing a live football game.
Well, that went out the window with the ridiculous press conference Friday.
Now, I'll have to look into finding Temple tickets.
Finally, before it's been done to death:
Monday, August 17, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Another Vick-tim
Good Morning and welcome to Friday!
Way back in the day, I started out in this business as a sports writer. Even before doing it professionaly, I was sports mad. I would watch every game on television and get to the stadiums whenever possible. I would take notes, keep stats, critique coaching decisions and keep an eye on the play (be it in baseball, football, basketball, whatever).
Then, I would write up my own account of the game and compare it to what appeared in the newspaper the next day. Then I was able to actually cover sports for a living. I saw many a great game on every level (from little league to the pros). I thought it was great.
There are many reasons why I no longer do any of that. They range from the mundane to the ridiculous, but one of the main reasons is the attitudes of athletes.
To see Terrell Owens complaining about feeding his family while making millions and then causing trouble because he couldn't make millions more was the final turn off.
While there are people dying in an unnessacary war and others just trying to get by on a daily basis, sports (the pro level anyway) lost its luster.
Now, with the Eagles signing of quarterback Michael Vick, I am glad I no longer work in the 'Toy Department.'
Maybe the guy deserves a second chance. That's not for me to decide. The bottom line is if Joe Smith down the street had a dog-fighting ring and killed dogs in his backyard, he would not be able to work again.
In our strange world, those who can throw a ball or run or hit get a clean slate.
Vick will get over a $1 million this year. He shouldn't get $1 to play professional sports.
Just in case you don't know how brutal Vick's crime is, check out this documentary from the UK:
Way back in the day, I started out in this business as a sports writer. Even before doing it professionaly, I was sports mad. I would watch every game on television and get to the stadiums whenever possible. I would take notes, keep stats, critique coaching decisions and keep an eye on the play (be it in baseball, football, basketball, whatever).
Then, I would write up my own account of the game and compare it to what appeared in the newspaper the next day. Then I was able to actually cover sports for a living. I saw many a great game on every level (from little league to the pros). I thought it was great.
There are many reasons why I no longer do any of that. They range from the mundane to the ridiculous, but one of the main reasons is the attitudes of athletes.
To see Terrell Owens complaining about feeding his family while making millions and then causing trouble because he couldn't make millions more was the final turn off.
While there are people dying in an unnessacary war and others just trying to get by on a daily basis, sports (the pro level anyway) lost its luster.
Now, with the Eagles signing of quarterback Michael Vick, I am glad I no longer work in the 'Toy Department.'
Maybe the guy deserves a second chance. That's not for me to decide. The bottom line is if Joe Smith down the street had a dog-fighting ring and killed dogs in his backyard, he would not be able to work again.
In our strange world, those who can throw a ball or run or hit get a clean slate.
Vick will get over a $1 million this year. He shouldn't get $1 to play professional sports.
Just in case you don't know how brutal Vick's crime is, check out this documentary from the UK:
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Tired or not?
Good Morning and welcome back to Thursday!
Sometimes, when things get to be too much, it's best to just put your head down for the night. The old song says "The Sun will come up Tomorrow" and, you know what, it's right.
Sure, the pressures are still there, but it's good to see them in a new light. Try to fix them as best as possible. Of course, that can't be done when you're tired. So, take a break. Hit the pillow.
Maybe it's not the best solution, but it works a lot of times.
Or, as you know, sometimes you are just a little more tired.
Sometimes, when things get to be too much, it's best to just put your head down for the night. The old song says "The Sun will come up Tomorrow" and, you know what, it's right.
Sure, the pressures are still there, but it's good to see them in a new light. Try to fix them as best as possible. Of course, that can't be done when you're tired. So, take a break. Hit the pillow.
Maybe it's not the best solution, but it works a lot of times.
Or, as you know, sometimes you are just a little more tired.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Rise and Shine --- It's getting scary
Good Morning and welcome to crazy town!
That's right, we've finally gone over the edge. We've finally taken things to a ridiculous level (a level fueled by those who are in search of ratings).
Just yesterday a man showed up with a gun at a healthcare town meeting being held by the President. Another man stood up to shout down Sen. Arlen Specter before even hearing any information.
There are people out there who listen (or read) uninformed opinions and take them as fact. They listen to Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin then believe every word that comes out of their mouths.
Tonight at 6:30 p.m., U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak is holding a healthcare town meeting in Philadelphia. I hope there is enough security to keep him safe.
Listen people, this country needs healthcare reform. We are being held hostage by insurance companies. They keep raising rates. They keep shutting out the doctors. Unless something is done, none of us will be able to afford care.
The bottom line is there is no government plan as yet. There are only ideas. That's the point of discussion. Hash out the ideas, see what works for the most people.
Unfortunately, small-minded people are disrupting that conversation for no reason.
Do your own research, you might learn something. Or, just believe the talking heads:
That's right, we've finally gone over the edge. We've finally taken things to a ridiculous level (a level fueled by those who are in search of ratings).
Just yesterday a man showed up with a gun at a healthcare town meeting being held by the President. Another man stood up to shout down Sen. Arlen Specter before even hearing any information.
There are people out there who listen (or read) uninformed opinions and take them as fact. They listen to Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin then believe every word that comes out of their mouths.
Tonight at 6:30 p.m., U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak is holding a healthcare town meeting in Philadelphia. I hope there is enough security to keep him safe.
Listen people, this country needs healthcare reform. We are being held hostage by insurance companies. They keep raising rates. They keep shutting out the doctors. Unless something is done, none of us will be able to afford care.
The bottom line is there is no government plan as yet. There are only ideas. That's the point of discussion. Hash out the ideas, see what works for the most people.
Unfortunately, small-minded people are disrupting that conversation for no reason.
Do your own research, you might learn something. Or, just believe the talking heads:
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Healther Skelter - Obama Death Panel Debate | ||||
| ||||
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The heat is on
Good Morning and welcome to another sticky August day!
What to do in the heat?
Sure, you can stay inside and relax with the air conditioning, but something feels just wrong about that scenerio.
In the dead of winter, with cold air (not so much snow for us the last few years) blowing outside, it's an easy decision. You stay in the heat and watch dead leaves blow around the yard.
The summer, though, brings a completely different view. The sun is shining and it looks like a perfect day to head outdoors.
Then, you open the door and ... BAM. That wall of heat hits you like a ton of bricks.
That's when the brain starts to click around (or burn out in my case). Go outside and enjoy the summer or stay inside and keep cool?
What to do? What to do?
In the end, I suggest, it's better to get out in the air. Turn off the air conditioner and sit under a tree.
Let the children get all sweaty (maybe, just maybe, a little tired) and it all seems OK.
That is, until the ice melts.
What to do in the heat?
Sure, you can stay inside and relax with the air conditioning, but something feels just wrong about that scenerio.
In the dead of winter, with cold air (not so much snow for us the last few years) blowing outside, it's an easy decision. You stay in the heat and watch dead leaves blow around the yard.
The summer, though, brings a completely different view. The sun is shining and it looks like a perfect day to head outdoors.
Then, you open the door and ... BAM. That wall of heat hits you like a ton of bricks.
That's when the brain starts to click around (or burn out in my case). Go outside and enjoy the summer or stay inside and keep cool?
What to do? What to do?
In the end, I suggest, it's better to get out in the air. Turn off the air conditioner and sit under a tree.
Let the children get all sweaty (maybe, just maybe, a little tired) and it all seems OK.
That is, until the ice melts.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- They must think we're all stupid
Good Morning, welcome to the weekend and stay away from AT&T!
Now, it's finally getting out of hand.
Last night in Tampa, Fla., there was an actual fight outside a 'Town Meeting' to talk about healthcare reform.
This conservative-radio fueled nonsense has finally reached a pinacle. We are about to go over the edge and, maybe, there finally may be no coming back.
Apparently, there are plenty of people out there who just focus on one thing and can't open their brains to the whole picture.
Want some proof? Check out this well-written story and the 104 comments that follow.
Look, I'm sorry if Rush Limbaugh and his ilk don't need better healthcare, but the rest of us do. There are too many people out there who can't get the care they need. There are too many people out there who can't afford the care they need. There are too many people out there who let those with loud mouths dictate their actions.
Here are the facts.
Yelling, screaming and, unbelievably, fighting won't change that.
Now, it's finally getting out of hand.
Last night in Tampa, Fla., there was an actual fight outside a 'Town Meeting' to talk about healthcare reform.
This conservative-radio fueled nonsense has finally reached a pinacle. We are about to go over the edge and, maybe, there finally may be no coming back.
Apparently, there are plenty of people out there who just focus on one thing and can't open their brains to the whole picture.
Want some proof? Check out this well-written story and the 104 comments that follow.
Look, I'm sorry if Rush Limbaugh and his ilk don't need better healthcare, but the rest of us do. There are too many people out there who can't get the care they need. There are too many people out there who can't afford the care they need. There are too many people out there who let those with loud mouths dictate their actions.
Here are the facts.
Yelling, screaming and, unbelievably, fighting won't change that.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Company runaround
Good Morning Dear Readers and All the Ships at Sea!
You know how Comcast keeps offering those 'Special' (read cheaper) deals to new customers. You can get cable TV, Internet and phone service for like five bucks if you are a new customer (OK, an exageration, but there's a point, trust me). If you are a current Comcast customer, you're out of luck.
The cable conglomerate, which rakes in billions every year, figures they have you already. Why try anymore? It's not like you can go somewhere else (RCN, Dish, Verizon?).
Well, that's frustrating enough, but I found another one this week: AT&T wireless.
Apparently, once you are a customer, you can pound sand. My cell phone has been used as a boat, race car, baseball and anything else you can think of that would entertain 10 and 7-year old boys. The front is cracked. The buttons stick. The ring sounds like a dead bird (actually, it is a bird, only a live one).
So, I logged onto AT&T's Web site to upgrade. Found a nice phone, then typed the name into Google to find any reviews.
Along with the reviews, I found out you can get the same phone at Amazon.com for $150 less if you are a new AT&T customer. So, I called customer service. The woman there told me to deal with their price or just cancel.
Not satisfied with that 30 second phone call, I sent an e-mail with my concerns. Here's what I got back:
I apologize for the difference in cost between a phone that Amazon sells versus a phone that we sell. The reason for this is that the equipment that Amazon sells is their equipment and they can choose to sell it for what they choose to sell it for. They sometimes choose to take losses on their equipment to make more money in the long run. All companies that simply sell our service for us can do this. These companies usually also have an item in their contract in addition to ours. This item states that if you get a discounted phone from them and then choose to cancel, for whatever reason, you will pay them an early termination fee. This is on top of our early termination fee and does not matter whether we waive the fee or not. If you choose to get the phone from Amazon, please make sure that you are aware of all conditions for getting the phone at that wonderful price. I am sorry we are not able to price match it.
So, in other words, we have you, pound sand. AT&T took in $3.2 billion in the second quarter this year. Not too shabby in a year where jobs are being shed like K-Mart shoes.
I realize this doesn't amount to much in the grand scheme of things. There are more important issues out there, but, sometimes, big companies could look out for the little guy.
By the way, Verizon and T-Mobil reps each said they would match any price.
You know how Comcast keeps offering those 'Special' (read cheaper) deals to new customers. You can get cable TV, Internet and phone service for like five bucks if you are a new customer (OK, an exageration, but there's a point, trust me). If you are a current Comcast customer, you're out of luck.
The cable conglomerate, which rakes in billions every year, figures they have you already. Why try anymore? It's not like you can go somewhere else (RCN, Dish, Verizon?).
Well, that's frustrating enough, but I found another one this week: AT&T wireless.
Apparently, once you are a customer, you can pound sand. My cell phone has been used as a boat, race car, baseball and anything else you can think of that would entertain 10 and 7-year old boys. The front is cracked. The buttons stick. The ring sounds like a dead bird (actually, it is a bird, only a live one).
So, I logged onto AT&T's Web site to upgrade. Found a nice phone, then typed the name into Google to find any reviews.
Along with the reviews, I found out you can get the same phone at Amazon.com for $150 less if you are a new AT&T customer. So, I called customer service. The woman there told me to deal with their price or just cancel.
Not satisfied with that 30 second phone call, I sent an e-mail with my concerns. Here's what I got back:
I apologize for the difference in cost between a phone that Amazon sells versus a phone that we sell. The reason for this is that the equipment that Amazon sells is their equipment and they can choose to sell it for what they choose to sell it for. They sometimes choose to take losses on their equipment to make more money in the long run. All companies that simply sell our service for us can do this. These companies usually also have an item in their contract in addition to ours. This item states that if you get a discounted phone from them and then choose to cancel, for whatever reason, you will pay them an early termination fee. This is on top of our early termination fee and does not matter whether we waive the fee or not. If you choose to get the phone from Amazon, please make sure that you are aware of all conditions for getting the phone at that wonderful price. I am sorry we are not able to price match it.
So, in other words, we have you, pound sand. AT&T took in $3.2 billion in the second quarter this year. Not too shabby in a year where jobs are being shed like K-Mart shoes.
I realize this doesn't amount to much in the grand scheme of things. There are more important issues out there, but, sometimes, big companies could look out for the little guy.
By the way, Verizon and T-Mobil reps each said they would match any price.
Robert Gibbs vs. Cell Phones - watch more funny videos
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Twitter, Twitter everywhere
Good Morning and welcome back to summer!?!
The 'big' news as we wake up this morning is Paula Abdul is LEAVING AMERICAN IDOL!
She apparently used Twitter late last night to alert her fans to the 'breaking news.'
You know, we joke about it sometimes, but this whole 24-hour news cycle has taken the break out of breaking news. In the old days, yeah three years ago, we would have found out Paula Abdul was leaving Idol (like we really care anyway) when the show came back on the air.
Now, though, it's BIG NEWS. It has to get out there immediately. We need to know.
Sure, every once in a while, there is news. The death of Michael Jackson or Joe Sestak telling everybody he is running for Senate (like it wasn't obvious months ago) is something worth talking about.
Those goofballs who show up to shout down our elected about healthcare reform, well, that's news if only to show how ridiculous they look.
Paula Abdul leaving American Idol is not that big a deal. Unless, of course, you are a cable news network who needs to fill time.
By the way, want to know the insignificant things in somebody's life (like when they head to the bathroom), log on to Twitter. Hey, follow me if you are sufficiently bored.
The 'big' news as we wake up this morning is Paula Abdul is LEAVING AMERICAN IDOL!
She apparently used Twitter late last night to alert her fans to the 'breaking news.'
You know, we joke about it sometimes, but this whole 24-hour news cycle has taken the break out of breaking news. In the old days, yeah three years ago, we would have found out Paula Abdul was leaving Idol (like we really care anyway) when the show came back on the air.
Now, though, it's BIG NEWS. It has to get out there immediately. We need to know.
Sure, every once in a while, there is news. The death of Michael Jackson or Joe Sestak telling everybody he is running for Senate (like it wasn't obvious months ago) is something worth talking about.
Those goofballs who show up to shout down our elected about healthcare reform, well, that's news if only to show how ridiculous they look.
Paula Abdul leaving American Idol is not that big a deal. Unless, of course, you are a cable news network who needs to fill time.
By the way, want to know the insignificant things in somebody's life (like when they head to the bathroom), log on to Twitter. Hey, follow me if you are sufficiently bored.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Rise and Shine --- From sublime to ridiculous
Good Morning and here we are at another Tuesday!?!
Maybe it's just me, but this story about a woman suing a college because she can't find a job is absolutely ridiculous.
I can't decide which is worse: the woman thought she could get some sympathy for this or that a lawyer was actually willing to take the case.
Either way, it smells. Look, our business section is filled every day with bad news about the economy. Jobs are being cut everywhere. Many people are finding it difficult to find a place to live.
Now, we have somebody actually suing a college because they can't find a job. What's next, sue your parents because they let you play outside instead of constantly studying?
Maybe we should sue somebody like this for putting out a fountain of misinformation. How about this guy for putting out filth on the airwaves?
Hey, let's go all the way and sue this guy for taking the comedy away from government.
Then again, maybe we should just work hard and help others. Maybe that's a better solution.
Maybe it's just me, but this story about a woman suing a college because she can't find a job is absolutely ridiculous.
I can't decide which is worse: the woman thought she could get some sympathy for this or that a lawyer was actually willing to take the case.
Either way, it smells. Look, our business section is filled every day with bad news about the economy. Jobs are being cut everywhere. Many people are finding it difficult to find a place to live.
Now, we have somebody actually suing a college because they can't find a job. What's next, sue your parents because they let you play outside instead of constantly studying?
Maybe we should sue somebody like this for putting out a fountain of misinformation. How about this guy for putting out filth on the airwaves?
Hey, let's go all the way and sue this guy for taking the comedy away from government.
Then again, maybe we should just work hard and help others. Maybe that's a better solution.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Penny for your thoughts
Good Morning and welcome back to another summer week!
Found out the Lincoln penny is 100 years old.
Now, for many, the penny, which, by the way, is the longest-running U.S. coin still in circulation, is nothing more than a nuisance.
You get pennies at the Wawa after buying a cup of coffee. They then sit in your pocket until you either put them in a bank or leave them on the counter. 'Wait, I have a dime. Darn it, it's not a dime, it's a penny.'
For others, though, including a 4-year old girl I know, pennies are gold. They might as well be million-dollar coins. The penny offers everything in the world that is good.
This girl, with curly hair by the way, won't ever pass up a penny.
"Look, Daddy, I have money. Do you want some money? I'll give you this one."
Why don't you keep it? Put it in the bank.
"Here's some more money! Woo, Hoo. Do you want some?"
Her older brothers, on the other hand, can't be bothered by pennies. Even if they did, the pennies would go immediately in their pockets.
"How many pennies do I need to buy a car?" asked a certain 7-year old recently.
Well, probably about 20 million.
"Then give me a dollar instead."
Anyway, see a penny, pick it up and all the day you'll have good luck.
Found out the Lincoln penny is 100 years old.
Now, for many, the penny, which, by the way, is the longest-running U.S. coin still in circulation, is nothing more than a nuisance.
You get pennies at the Wawa after buying a cup of coffee. They then sit in your pocket until you either put them in a bank or leave them on the counter. 'Wait, I have a dime. Darn it, it's not a dime, it's a penny.'
For others, though, including a 4-year old girl I know, pennies are gold. They might as well be million-dollar coins. The penny offers everything in the world that is good.
This girl, with curly hair by the way, won't ever pass up a penny.
"Look, Daddy, I have money. Do you want some money? I'll give you this one."
Why don't you keep it? Put it in the bank.
"Here's some more money! Woo, Hoo. Do you want some?"
Her older brothers, on the other hand, can't be bothered by pennies. Even if they did, the pennies would go immediately in their pockets.
"How many pennies do I need to buy a car?" asked a certain 7-year old recently.
Well, probably about 20 million.
"Then give me a dollar instead."
Anyway, see a penny, pick it up and all the day you'll have good luck.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Stealing sand?
Good Morning and welcome to the last day in July?!?
I don't know about you, but I had no problem getting up this morning.
So, found this story this morning. Apparently, Mexico doesn't have enough problems (drug runners, etc.) it needs to have environmental police.
Imagine if Upper Darby's Mike Chitwood was running the operation: 'These sand scumbags can't get away with this. Scumbags shouldn't be allowed to steal sand.'
Or pound sand or whatever.
Meanwhile, there are more important things going on in this country.
I mean, after all, we have health care that will never be fixed because those in power have their pockets lined by drug and HMO companies. We have too many people losing too many jobs. We have too many children wondering where their next meal will come.
But, hey, let's spend a ridiculous amount of time on a guy climbing through the window of his house. Even the neighbor who made the 911 call was on TV yesterday. Maybe she can have a tea party with Michelle Obama.
How about we solve the budget crisis this way:
I don't know about you, but I had no problem getting up this morning.
So, found this story this morning. Apparently, Mexico doesn't have enough problems (drug runners, etc.) it needs to have environmental police.
Imagine if Upper Darby's Mike Chitwood was running the operation: 'These sand scumbags can't get away with this. Scumbags shouldn't be allowed to steal sand.'
Or pound sand or whatever.
Meanwhile, there are more important things going on in this country.
I mean, after all, we have health care that will never be fixed because those in power have their pockets lined by drug and HMO companies. We have too many people losing too many jobs. We have too many children wondering where their next meal will come.
But, hey, let's spend a ridiculous amount of time on a guy climbing through the window of his house. Even the neighbor who made the 911 call was on TV yesterday. Maybe she can have a tea party with Michelle Obama.
How about we solve the budget crisis this way:
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The joys of 7
Good Morning and wipe that sand out of your eyes!
OK, maybe it's not so hard to take care of precocious 7-year old. At least he's not doing this.
But, short of driving a bus down the highway, I know a 7-year old who never needs downtime. It's amazing, really. Everybody else could be exhausted, hot, whatever, and this 7-year old is ready to roam.
He'll climb any tree. Jump off any wall. Throw any ball. Get frustrated when the rest can't keep up.
It can be draining, but also exhilarating, but, OK, mostly draining.
The truly amazing thing is the building. Anything can become a functional sculpture. Empty water bottles are used for dirt or bird feeders. Old paper towel tubes become marble runs. Paper becomes a canvas.
Now to find a way to channel that creativity into useful energy. Then again, maybe it already has.
OK, maybe it's not so hard to take care of precocious 7-year old. At least he's not doing this.
But, short of driving a bus down the highway, I know a 7-year old who never needs downtime. It's amazing, really. Everybody else could be exhausted, hot, whatever, and this 7-year old is ready to roam.
He'll climb any tree. Jump off any wall. Throw any ball. Get frustrated when the rest can't keep up.
It can be draining, but also exhilarating, but, OK, mostly draining.
The truly amazing thing is the building. Anything can become a functional sculpture. Empty water bottles are used for dirt or bird feeders. Old paper towel tubes become marble runs. Paper becomes a canvas.
Now to find a way to channel that creativity into useful energy. Then again, maybe it already has.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Dancing in the surf
Good Morning and take it easy today!
Sometimes, you just have to throw everything out and take a break.
There are pressures all over these days. You have to worry about money, jobs, pain-in-the-butt people, overly aggressive drivers, humidity, eating, shopping, walking, running, getting gas, washing the car, cutting the lawn, just to name a few.
So, some days, it's just better to take a time out. Use the clock. Forget everything. There's no better place to do that than on the beach. Sure, you can hit a park (Ridley Creek, Valley Forge) or the mall (forget it, too much pressure to spend), but the best place is an early evening as the surf crashes against the sand.
It only makes it better when it is accompanied by laughter. After piling the crew into the vehicle Monday evening, it was the perfect time for a surprise visit to Ocean City.
Just duck down, get some ice cream and walk on the beach. Of course, with a 10-year old, 7-year old and 4-year old, things don't always go smoothly.
There were issues about ice cream; issues about who's touching who; issues about toys; issues about music. That went out the window, so to speak, as the beach became closer. Suddenly, there were no more arguments.
There was just running in the sand. Chasing the small waves that hit the sand. Running. Laughing.
If only it could last a little longer than one night.
Sometimes, you just have to throw everything out and take a break.
There are pressures all over these days. You have to worry about money, jobs, pain-in-the-butt people, overly aggressive drivers, humidity, eating, shopping, walking, running, getting gas, washing the car, cutting the lawn, just to name a few.
So, some days, it's just better to take a time out. Use the clock. Forget everything. There's no better place to do that than on the beach. Sure, you can hit a park (Ridley Creek, Valley Forge) or the mall (forget it, too much pressure to spend), but the best place is an early evening as the surf crashes against the sand.
It only makes it better when it is accompanied by laughter. After piling the crew into the vehicle Monday evening, it was the perfect time for a surprise visit to Ocean City.
Just duck down, get some ice cream and walk on the beach. Of course, with a 10-year old, 7-year old and 4-year old, things don't always go smoothly.
There were issues about ice cream; issues about who's touching who; issues about toys; issues about music. That went out the window, so to speak, as the beach became closer. Suddenly, there were no more arguments.
There was just running in the sand. Chasing the small waves that hit the sand. Running. Laughing.
If only it could last a little longer than one night.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The new 700
Good Morning and wasn't it nice before the heat was turned up?!?
For those who don't remember, the top echelon of seats at old Veterans Stadium was the 700 level. It got a reputation for rowdy fans (especially during Eagles games) who were mostly drunk all the time and caused trouble.
By the time Buddy Ryan took over the Eagles in the mid-80s you didn't venture to the 700 level unless you were ready. It was downright scary and it was no place for children.
Well, it appears Citizen's Bank Park (the whole thing?) has become the new 700 level. Fights, obscene yelling, bad behavior and now murder is making a summer night at the ballpark no-man's land.
Sure, there are plenty of nice fans who just come out for a good time and a ball game, but they are overshadowed by the idiots who drink too much then have to cause trouble for everybody else.
Major league sports (NFL, MLB, NBA and, yes, NHL) has already managed to outprice families from a night at the game. The fans are making it even harder to justify.
Why spend $200 to take your family to the game when most of it you have to spend explaining to a 7-year old why Joe Blow over there is throwing up? Why go down to the ballpark if you can't take a 4-year old to the concession stand without fearing for your life?
Of course, as long as the Phillies can keep selling out the park, they don't care. "Hey, come on out, drink, spend, yell, curse. Just keep the money flowing."
Football and its inherent violence is one thing, but baseball should lend itself to a nice, calm summer night. Unfortunately, that's had to change with the world.
Thanks.
For those who don't remember, the top echelon of seats at old Veterans Stadium was the 700 level. It got a reputation for rowdy fans (especially during Eagles games) who were mostly drunk all the time and caused trouble.
By the time Buddy Ryan took over the Eagles in the mid-80s you didn't venture to the 700 level unless you were ready. It was downright scary and it was no place for children.
Well, it appears Citizen's Bank Park (the whole thing?) has become the new 700 level. Fights, obscene yelling, bad behavior and now murder is making a summer night at the ballpark no-man's land.
Sure, there are plenty of nice fans who just come out for a good time and a ball game, but they are overshadowed by the idiots who drink too much then have to cause trouble for everybody else.
Major league sports (NFL, MLB, NBA and, yes, NHL) has already managed to outprice families from a night at the game. The fans are making it even harder to justify.
Why spend $200 to take your family to the game when most of it you have to spend explaining to a 7-year old why Joe Blow over there is throwing up? Why go down to the ballpark if you can't take a 4-year old to the concession stand without fearing for your life?
Of course, as long as the Phillies can keep selling out the park, they don't care. "Hey, come on out, drink, spend, yell, curse. Just keep the money flowing."
Football and its inherent violence is one thing, but baseball should lend itself to a nice, calm summer night. Unfortunately, that's had to change with the world.
Thanks.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Working or not
Good Morning and welcome to a new week!
This new week brings us heat and not the kind this woman will bring to us over the next few years. Hey, at least we now know comedians won't go out of work.
Speaking of work, as we see more and more layoffs hitting people after people, why are there so many miserable people working. Everybody runs into these people at their place of work.
They complain, try to get under everbody else's skin and just make the workplace miserable. A newsroom, being such it is these days, probably has more than anywhere else. At least, that's the perspective here. Your perspective is probably different.
Look, we all know companies are asking less people to do more these days. You can complain. You can be miserable. You can talk on your cell phone during work hours.
What you shouldn't do is try to cut down your fellow workers. Leave that for the commenters.
This new week brings us heat and not the kind this woman will bring to us over the next few years. Hey, at least we now know comedians won't go out of work.
Speaking of work, as we see more and more layoffs hitting people after people, why are there so many miserable people working. Everybody runs into these people at their place of work.
They complain, try to get under everbody else's skin and just make the workplace miserable. A newsroom, being such it is these days, probably has more than anywhere else. At least, that's the perspective here. Your perspective is probably different.
Look, we all know companies are asking less people to do more these days. You can complain. You can be miserable. You can talk on your cell phone during work hours.
What you shouldn't do is try to cut down your fellow workers. Leave that for the commenters.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Quick, call the cops!
Good Morning and congratulations to making it to another Friday!
While we continue to wonder about those cool nights (nah, that global warming thing is all hype), it's time to put the whole lemonade thing to rest.
There are plenty of reasons to call the cops on neighborhood children. The least of which (unless, of course, you live in Haverford) is to stop those illegal lemonade sales.
So, to finish out a few days of public service (non-court mandated), here are some reasons to call the police. Start dialing now, 9-1...
1. Those kids are riding their bikes ... in the street. That's right. Get your sirens on right now. Children are supposed to be fat and lazy, not riding bikes and getting exercise. Get the black-and-white out here and chase them back inside. Make them turn the video games back on.
2. The young ones just picked a dandelion off the lawn. Hey, one man's weed might be another's flower, but their my weeks (or flowers). Put it down little girl!
3. They're climbing trees and the parents aren't watching. Back in the day trees were much stronger. They are going to break an arm.
4. McDonald's just shortchanged me a McNugget! Sorry, that slipped in through the back door.
5. Those kids next door are just too nice. They must be planning some mischief. They always say hello and are respectful to others. Potential terrorists! Lock them up!
OK, there's a few to start. I'm sure there are plenty more (anybody from Haverford out there?). Let me know at onlinedelco@gmail.com
Then again, we can just enjoy the summer.
While we continue to wonder about those cool nights (nah, that global warming thing is all hype), it's time to put the whole lemonade thing to rest.
There are plenty of reasons to call the cops on neighborhood children. The least of which (unless, of course, you live in Haverford) is to stop those illegal lemonade sales.
So, to finish out a few days of public service (non-court mandated), here are some reasons to call the police. Start dialing now, 9-1...
1. Those kids are riding their bikes ... in the street. That's right. Get your sirens on right now. Children are supposed to be fat and lazy, not riding bikes and getting exercise. Get the black-and-white out here and chase them back inside. Make them turn the video games back on.
2. The young ones just picked a dandelion off the lawn. Hey, one man's weed might be another's flower, but their my weeks (or flowers). Put it down little girl!
3. They're climbing trees and the parents aren't watching. Back in the day trees were much stronger. They are going to break an arm.
4. McDonald's just shortchanged me a McNugget! Sorry, that slipped in through the back door.
5. Those kids next door are just too nice. They must be planning some mischief. They always say hello and are respectful to others. Potential terrorists! Lock them up!
OK, there's a few to start. I'm sure there are plenty more (anybody from Haverford out there?). Let me know at onlinedelco@gmail.com
Then again, we can just enjoy the summer.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Annoy the neighbors
Good Morning and welcome to one day closer to the weekend!
While the government of North Korea seems to be a little out there, they have redefined the way we can annoy our neighbors.
Some children in Haverford were able to do that last week by selling lemonade, the ultimate terroristic act, or so it appears.
So, short of brandishing nuclear weapons or selling fresh lemonade, here are some other ways to annoy the neighbors:
1. Cut their grass. Yeah, that's right. When you are doing your own lawn, cross into the neighbor's domain. Not only that, but then actually rake up the cuttings. That's sure to get them going.
2. Shovel the sidewalk. Sure, we haven't had that much snow the past few winters, but this will surely get them going. Clear the ice, too. You may get a visit from the police.
3. Water their flowers. Try to keep the blooms going as long as possible. Maybe add a little plant food in there as well. You'll get evil looks for years.
4. Say 'Hello' everyday. The best way to get under somebody's skin is to be nice. Turn that smile upside down.
5. Try to sell them lemonade. Oh, wait, that's already been done.
I'm sure there are more, but I have to pick up the newspaper off the neighbor's lawn and put it close to their door.
While the government of North Korea seems to be a little out there, they have redefined the way we can annoy our neighbors.
Some children in Haverford were able to do that last week by selling lemonade, the ultimate terroristic act, or so it appears.
So, short of brandishing nuclear weapons or selling fresh lemonade, here are some other ways to annoy the neighbors:
1. Cut their grass. Yeah, that's right. When you are doing your own lawn, cross into the neighbor's domain. Not only that, but then actually rake up the cuttings. That's sure to get them going.
2. Shovel the sidewalk. Sure, we haven't had that much snow the past few winters, but this will surely get them going. Clear the ice, too. You may get a visit from the police.
3. Water their flowers. Try to keep the blooms going as long as possible. Maybe add a little plant food in there as well. You'll get evil looks for years.
4. Say 'Hello' everyday. The best way to get under somebody's skin is to be nice. Turn that smile upside down.
5. Try to sell them lemonade. Oh, wait, that's already been done.
I'm sure there are more, but I have to pick up the newspaper off the neighbor's lawn and put it close to their door.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Lemon juice
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
The story over the weekend about a person in Haverford calling the police on some children selling lemonade was at first funny, then downright sad.
The neighbor can couch it any way he wants (he says the worry was the children weren't being supervised by an adult), but to call the police on lemonade sellers is downright cruel.
Have we come to the point where we have to take everything away and can't just let children be children. We no longer can allow them to ride their bikes around the block for fear of crazy people. We can't let them play outside. Now, some don't want them selling lemonade.
Give it a break.
Attempting to sell lemonade (or painted seashells or rocks or whatever) for a few pennies is not going to bring the downfall to society.
Calling the police will.
So, to bother the neighbors, here's an idea:
The story over the weekend about a person in Haverford calling the police on some children selling lemonade was at first funny, then downright sad.
The neighbor can couch it any way he wants (he says the worry was the children weren't being supervised by an adult), but to call the police on lemonade sellers is downright cruel.
Have we come to the point where we have to take everything away and can't just let children be children. We no longer can allow them to ride their bikes around the block for fear of crazy people. We can't let them play outside. Now, some don't want them selling lemonade.
Give it a break.
Attempting to sell lemonade (or painted seashells or rocks or whatever) for a few pennies is not going to bring the downfall to society.
Calling the police will.
So, to bother the neighbors, here's an idea:
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The first playground
Good Morning and welcome back to Tuesday!
Well, the first playground has been, well, played and the reports are pretty good.
Just to review, I have commissioned a small group to find the best playground in Delaware County. Since there aren't any like it in Delco, the first (or control group if you must) is the Smith Kid's Play Place in the Park. Maybe it's unfair to compare a perfectly manacured, well-kept playground in Fairmount Park to those in Delaware County, but, it's not like we're working in a science lab.
So, the drive to the Smith is pretty easy. Go to the Zoo, make a left on the Girard Ave. bridge and follow the signs.
First off, they are working on the outside of the Playhouse (really, an old mansion converted to a playhouse). The day we were there, they were still buidling a Tot Lot outside the Playhouse.
That's no matter, though, after entering the gates children are greeted with something that can only be described as perfect. There are swings, rocks to climb, spinning things, a giant spider web, a tower to climb. In short, it can get those of us greying around the temples a little jealous.
The biggest draw, though, is the giant slide. It looks like a barn, but there is a big wooden slide inside. The children use old potato bags to slide down. Those in our group could have stayed there all day. One slide down, run back to the top, slide again, repeat.
After about two hours of running around, spinning, playing and yelling, the best way to tell if a playground is worth it is when you are leaving. When it's time to go (Closing is at 4:30 p.m.) if the players try to run away or start crying, they had a good time.
Here are more images. Sometime over the next week, look for the start of the tour of Delco.
If you know of a good playground in Delco, send it along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, the first playground has been, well, played and the reports are pretty good.
Just to review, I have commissioned a small group to find the best playground in Delaware County. Since there aren't any like it in Delco, the first (or control group if you must) is the Smith Kid's Play Place in the Park. Maybe it's unfair to compare a perfectly manacured, well-kept playground in Fairmount Park to those in Delaware County, but, it's not like we're working in a science lab.
So, the drive to the Smith is pretty easy. Go to the Zoo, make a left on the Girard Ave. bridge and follow the signs.
First off, they are working on the outside of the Playhouse (really, an old mansion converted to a playhouse). The day we were there, they were still buidling a Tot Lot outside the Playhouse.That's no matter, though, after entering the gates children are greeted with something that can only be described as perfect. There are swings, rocks to climb, spinning things, a giant spider web, a tower to climb. In short, it can get those of us greying around the temples a little jealous.
The biggest draw, though, is the giant slide. It looks like a barn, but there is a big wooden slide inside. The children use old potato bags to slide down. Those in our group could have stayed there all day. One slide down, run back to the top, slide again, repeat.After about two hours of running around, spinning, playing and yelling, the best way to tell if a playground is worth it is when you are leaving. When it's time to go (Closing is at 4:30 p.m.) if the players try to run away or start crying, they had a good time.
Here are more images. Sometime over the next week, look for the start of the tour of Delco.
If you know of a good playground in Delco, send it along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, July 20, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The great playground search
Good Morning and welcome to a brand-new week!
After taking in the fun 'Touch a Truck' program to help raise funds for the buidling of Freedom Playground in Haverford Saturday, it got me thinking about playgrounds.
Really, are there any good playgrounds in Delaware County?
Well, very unscientifically, we are going to find out. Having built a community playground a few years ago, I know what it takes to make a good one.
So, with my group of playground enthusiasts, we are going to set out to find the best playground in Delaware County.
I do need some help, though. If you know of a good playground, send an e-mail to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Rise and Shine will report what we see (and do) during the search.
To prime the search, it's time to head to one of the great playgrounds in the area. That would be the SMITH The Kids’ Play Place in the Park in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia (I know, not in Delco, but, hey, you have to venture outside of the bubble).
My bet will be against finding one we can call "the best," but you never know.
After taking in the fun 'Touch a Truck' program to help raise funds for the buidling of Freedom Playground in Haverford Saturday, it got me thinking about playgrounds.
Really, are there any good playgrounds in Delaware County?
Well, very unscientifically, we are going to find out. Having built a community playground a few years ago, I know what it takes to make a good one.
So, with my group of playground enthusiasts, we are going to set out to find the best playground in Delaware County.
I do need some help, though. If you know of a good playground, send an e-mail to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Rise and Shine will report what we see (and do) during the search.
To prime the search, it's time to head to one of the great playgrounds in the area. That would be the SMITH The Kids’ Play Place in the Park in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia (I know, not in Delco, but, hey, you have to venture outside of the bubble).
My bet will be against finding one we can call "the best," but you never know.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Rise and Shine --- What steps?
Good Morning and welcome to the week after the Fourth of July!
You hope we've evolved as human beings, then something like this happens.
There are many reasons why we haven't joined a swim club. This kind of attitude is one of those reasons. Now, I know people pay a lot of money for these things (the major reason), but tough doody if you don't like the rest of the people there.
Those at the club claiming it's not racism are the same ones who put a confederate flag on the front of their pick-up and say it's not making a racial statement.
One thing I've learned over the years is children are color blind. They don't care if you are white, black, red, green or orange. They just like to make friends.
It's only when 'adults' get involved when there are problems.
OK, it's not all adults, but there are too many loudmouths out there (just look at some of those comments on www.delcotimes.com before they are deleted).
How about we just let people be people and enjoy the world.
Then again, maybe I have a child's outlook on society.
You hope we've evolved as human beings, then something like this happens.
There are many reasons why we haven't joined a swim club. This kind of attitude is one of those reasons. Now, I know people pay a lot of money for these things (the major reason), but tough doody if you don't like the rest of the people there.
Those at the club claiming it's not racism are the same ones who put a confederate flag on the front of their pick-up and say it's not making a racial statement.
One thing I've learned over the years is children are color blind. They don't care if you are white, black, red, green or orange. They just like to make friends.
It's only when 'adults' get involved when there are problems.
OK, it's not all adults, but there are too many loudmouths out there (just look at some of those comments on www.delcotimes.com before they are deleted).
How about we just let people be people and enjoy the world.
Then again, maybe I have a child's outlook on society.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Rise and Shine --- From calm to panic in 30 seconds
Good Morning and welcome to another perfect July day!
While sitting in the office Wednesday morning, I saw a television commercial targeting parents of young children. The commercial showed a mother with a young child at a park. The mother puts her head down for a second and the child is gone. The panicked Mom looks around and doesn't see the child. The visual cuts to a white van driving out of the park. The Mom then reaches into her bag and pulls out some kind of child GPS tracker. You put one part on your child and the other part beeps when it's close. The tracker works fine in the commercial and the smiling boy comes out of the woods with a red balloon.
Now, I'm one to think we have enough gadgets in our pockets. We have cell phones, keyless car entry buttons, garage-door openers and everything else. Why get another gadget?
Then again... Meet Brendan.
He's 7-years old, a free-spirit and can be, well, a handful.
During dinner Wednesday night, we were talking about heading to the library for a puppet show. Brendan, as he's apt to do, finished dinner first, left the table and starting tumbling around on the couch.
You keep half an eye to make sure he doesn't run outside, then get back to eating or cleaning up or just resting.
There's still plenty of time for the puppet show, so we get ready to go, but there's no Brendan.
Everybody starts calmly looking around the house. We check the play room. We check the bathroom. We check his bedroom. His brother's bedroom. His sister's bedroom.
No Brendan.
We start yelling his name.
No Brendan.
We check around outside.
No Brendan.
We go back inside and yell his name louder.
No Brendan.
His mom, getting close to full panic mode, takes a quick ride around the block to see if he just sort of wandered.
No Brendan.
We yell louder. People are staring to stare at the house (or avoid it).
No Brendan.
Check the garage.
No Brendan.
Mom grabs the phone. Dials a 9.
"Hi Mom."
Huh?!?
There's Brendan. Big Smile. Starting to laugh.
"I was just playing hide and seek in this box."
It's not a game if nobody else is playing. Unfortunately, and a 7-year old is (hopefully) never going to understand this, but we live in a world where you quickly go from a playful search to thinking (believing?) the worst.
We are lucky. It was just a child playing around. Of course, our heads are another story.
Not to push a product, I (and everybody else in the house) know what this is like:
While sitting in the office Wednesday morning, I saw a television commercial targeting parents of young children. The commercial showed a mother with a young child at a park. The mother puts her head down for a second and the child is gone. The panicked Mom looks around and doesn't see the child. The visual cuts to a white van driving out of the park. The Mom then reaches into her bag and pulls out some kind of child GPS tracker. You put one part on your child and the other part beeps when it's close. The tracker works fine in the commercial and the smiling boy comes out of the woods with a red balloon.
Now, I'm one to think we have enough gadgets in our pockets. We have cell phones, keyless car entry buttons, garage-door openers and everything else. Why get another gadget?
Then again... Meet Brendan.
He's 7-years old, a free-spirit and can be, well, a handful.
During dinner Wednesday night, we were talking about heading to the library for a puppet show. Brendan, as he's apt to do, finished dinner first, left the table and starting tumbling around on the couch.
You keep half an eye to make sure he doesn't run outside, then get back to eating or cleaning up or just resting.
There's still plenty of time for the puppet show, so we get ready to go, but there's no Brendan.
Everybody starts calmly looking around the house. We check the play room. We check the bathroom. We check his bedroom. His brother's bedroom. His sister's bedroom.
No Brendan.
We start yelling his name.
No Brendan.
We check around outside.
No Brendan.
We go back inside and yell his name louder.
No Brendan.
His mom, getting close to full panic mode, takes a quick ride around the block to see if he just sort of wandered.
No Brendan.
We yell louder. People are staring to stare at the house (or avoid it).
No Brendan.
Check the garage.
No Brendan.
Mom grabs the phone. Dials a 9.
"Hi Mom."
Huh?!?
There's Brendan. Big Smile. Starting to laugh.
"I was just playing hide and seek in this box."
It's not a game if nobody else is playing. Unfortunately, and a 7-year old is (hopefully) never going to understand this, but we live in a world where you quickly go from a playful search to thinking (believing?) the worst.
We are lucky. It was just a child playing around. Of course, our heads are another story.
Not to push a product, I (and everybody else in the house) know what this is like:
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Rise and Shine --- About that money...
Good Morning and welcome to a July Wednesday!!
When even the Pope weighs in on the world economy, maybe it's time somebody will listen.
We've been separating the haves and have nots for way too long. What's wrong with everybody having the same amount of time, money or whatever. We would all get along a lot better. There would be less crime and businesses could, well, stay in business.
The Pope, according to the New York Times, said world economic leaders should work for the ‘Common Good.'
How about that? This Pope sure is radical.
If you want to argue some 'leaders of industry' deserve to make more money because of their company leadership, so be it. Just remember, those people didn't get there without somebody doing their work.
The head of Sunoco would be bringing home that outlandish salary if we weren't paying the high price (gouging?) for gas.
Just think how much better we would all be if companies looked out for the 'common good' instead of the 'good for one.'
Sometimes, the simplest ideas make the most sense.
When even the Pope weighs in on the world economy, maybe it's time somebody will listen.
We've been separating the haves and have nots for way too long. What's wrong with everybody having the same amount of time, money or whatever. We would all get along a lot better. There would be less crime and businesses could, well, stay in business.
The Pope, according to the New York Times, said world economic leaders should work for the ‘Common Good.'
How about that? This Pope sure is radical.
If you want to argue some 'leaders of industry' deserve to make more money because of their company leadership, so be it. Just remember, those people didn't get there without somebody doing their work.
The head of Sunoco would be bringing home that outlandish salary if we weren't paying the high price (gouging?) for gas.
Just think how much better we would all be if companies looked out for the 'common good' instead of the 'good for one.'
Sometimes, the simplest ideas make the most sense.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Rise and Shine --- There's some money out there
Good Morning and welcome to Tuesday!
According to a report out there today, airlines may start offering 'Standing Room Only' tickets. Now, anybody who tries to walk on an airplane to just get to the bathroom knows it's not the easiest thing in the world. Now, you can buy a ticket where you stand (actually get strapped to a bar stool) during the whole flight.
Will there be first-class standing room where you still get the champaign, but not a seat? How about a business-class standing room (you know, more elbow room)?
Sounds kind or ridiculous, but there are a lot of ridiculous things going on in business right now.
For instance, why does every local television channel need to send a reporter to Los Angeles to cover the Michael Jackson tribute? Do we really need a local face (or whoever) to stand in front of the Staples Center and tell us what is happening?
Next comes word the Sci Fi Channel is changing its name to Syfy. Most likely a bunch of people got paid a bunch of money to sit around a conference-room table for months to come up with this idea.
Guess the economy is OK for some people.
According to a report out there today, airlines may start offering 'Standing Room Only' tickets. Now, anybody who tries to walk on an airplane to just get to the bathroom knows it's not the easiest thing in the world. Now, you can buy a ticket where you stand (actually get strapped to a bar stool) during the whole flight.
Will there be first-class standing room where you still get the champaign, but not a seat? How about a business-class standing room (you know, more elbow room)?
Sounds kind or ridiculous, but there are a lot of ridiculous things going on in business right now.
For instance, why does every local television channel need to send a reporter to Los Angeles to cover the Michael Jackson tribute? Do we really need a local face (or whoever) to stand in front of the Staples Center and tell us what is happening?
Next comes word the Sci Fi Channel is changing its name to Syfy. Most likely a bunch of people got paid a bunch of money to sit around a conference-room table for months to come up with this idea.
Guess the economy is OK for some people.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Snowball effect
Good Morning and welcome to a whole new week!
Here's hoping this week goes a little smoother.
Imagine this all happening in one week.
Your dog gets poisoned while taking a little walk. You rush it to the vet. The vet says it doesn't look like the dog is going to make it through the night. You have to break the news to three children (10, 7 and 4-years old). You take said children back to the vet to say goodbye to the dog.
You calm them down enough to eat a small dinner and get to bed. The next day, the vet says it's a miracle and the dog is getting better. In fact, the vet says, you can pick the dog up later that afternoon. Of course, bring the checkbook, there are no payment plans here.
OK, you weather the storm, eat a small dinner and get some (smaller than the dinner) sleep.
You wake up (or rather roll over and fall out of bed) on your birthday to the 10 and 7-year old reenacting Wrestlemania 2, at 3:30 in the morning.
The rest of the morning and early afternoon goes relatively smoothly (especially when you are surprised with a birthday cake).
Then the late afternoon comes and you find out some idiot has thrown a rock through the window of your car as it sits in the office parking lot.
Lovely. Do you fix the window, eat, pay the mortgage or pay other bills?
So, it can only get calmer the rest of the summer, right?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Here's hoping this week goes a little smoother.
Imagine this all happening in one week.
Your dog gets poisoned while taking a little walk. You rush it to the vet. The vet says it doesn't look like the dog is going to make it through the night. You have to break the news to three children (10, 7 and 4-years old). You take said children back to the vet to say goodbye to the dog.
You calm them down enough to eat a small dinner and get to bed. The next day, the vet says it's a miracle and the dog is getting better. In fact, the vet says, you can pick the dog up later that afternoon. Of course, bring the checkbook, there are no payment plans here.
OK, you weather the storm, eat a small dinner and get some (smaller than the dinner) sleep.
You wake up (or rather roll over and fall out of bed) on your birthday to the 10 and 7-year old reenacting Wrestlemania 2, at 3:30 in the morning.
The rest of the morning and early afternoon goes relatively smoothly (especially when you are surprised with a birthday cake).
Then the late afternoon comes and you find out some idiot has thrown a rock through the window of your car as it sits in the office parking lot.
Lovely. Do you fix the window, eat, pay the mortgage or pay other bills?
So, it can only get calmer the rest of the summer, right?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, July 3, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Inside or out?
Good Morning and welcome to the day before July 4th!
The celebration can begin tonight as Upper Darby hosts its fireworks display. Hey, Michael Chitwood gives us fireworks every day, what's so special about tonight?
Speaking of special, many teachers like to give gifts to students at the end of the school year. A Northern California elementary school teacher may have gone too far.
Read the story and decide for yourself.
Meanwhile, It appears we have this guy to thank for higher gas prices. Not only should he be fired, but he should personally go around and fill all our gas tanks.
On this holiday weekend, anybody who pays attention to this grand stage of stupidity should be forced to watch hot dogs being made.
Speaking of holidays, this is just silly:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
The celebration can begin tonight as Upper Darby hosts its fireworks display. Hey, Michael Chitwood gives us fireworks every day, what's so special about tonight?
Speaking of special, many teachers like to give gifts to students at the end of the school year. A Northern California elementary school teacher may have gone too far.
Read the story and decide for yourself.
Meanwhile, It appears we have this guy to thank for higher gas prices. Not only should he be fired, but he should personally go around and fill all our gas tanks.
On this holiday weekend, anybody who pays attention to this grand stage of stupidity should be forced to watch hot dogs being made.
Speaking of holidays, this is just silly:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Rise and Shine --- July 4th film festival
Good Morning and welcome to a holiday weekend!?!
It's kind of amazing how we are now able to stretch these holidays into a couple of days. It used to be we had July 4 and that was it. Now, it's July 3-July 5 and everyday you can find something to do. Heck, it started downtown last week.
Anyway, it wasn't too surprising to read the report earlier this week that people are traveling less these days. With gas prices still high (I know, not as high as last year) and more bills piling up, something has to go.
So, if you are staying home (maybe heading up to the roof to catch some fireworks), it's a good time for a July 4th movie festival.
Here are some ideas (a day early since there will be a run at the video stores when this is published):
Independence Day: Obvious choice. Although it does seem kind of dated now, there are not many movies where you can get ridiculous plot holes and the July 4th weekend rolled into one.
Yankee Doodle Dandy: James Cagney dancing, singing, tipping his top hat. Not only will your feet be tapping, but you won't even miss the fireworks.
John Adams: Yeah, it would probably take the whole weekend to watch this historical mini-series. What better way to connect to July 4th than to see a fictionalized dramatization of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Rocky: Sure, Sly Stallone has made a joke of the character with the many sequels, but the original is all about the Fourth-of-July. You have the down and out guy getting a chance to 'shock the world' on July 4th.
Rocky 4: OK, it's a joke of a movie, but if you want to feel all 'Red, White and Blue' watch Rocky win over the cold-war Russians.
Now, I'm sure there's more, but it's time to fire up the player.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
It's kind of amazing how we are now able to stretch these holidays into a couple of days. It used to be we had July 4 and that was it. Now, it's July 3-July 5 and everyday you can find something to do. Heck, it started downtown last week.
Anyway, it wasn't too surprising to read the report earlier this week that people are traveling less these days. With gas prices still high (I know, not as high as last year) and more bills piling up, something has to go.
So, if you are staying home (maybe heading up to the roof to catch some fireworks), it's a good time for a July 4th movie festival.
Here are some ideas (a day early since there will be a run at the video stores when this is published):
Independence Day: Obvious choice. Although it does seem kind of dated now, there are not many movies where you can get ridiculous plot holes and the July 4th weekend rolled into one.
Yankee Doodle Dandy: James Cagney dancing, singing, tipping his top hat. Not only will your feet be tapping, but you won't even miss the fireworks.
John Adams: Yeah, it would probably take the whole weekend to watch this historical mini-series. What better way to connect to July 4th than to see a fictionalized dramatization of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Rocky: Sure, Sly Stallone has made a joke of the character with the many sequels, but the original is all about the Fourth-of-July. You have the down and out guy getting a chance to 'shock the world' on July 4th.
Rocky 4: OK, it's a joke of a movie, but if you want to feel all 'Red, White and Blue' watch Rocky win over the cold-war Russians.
Now, I'm sure there's more, but it's time to fire up the player.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Is this what we've come to?
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of another summer week!
Really, summer should be about fun. We work hard all year long, if we can enjoy ourselves during some nice weather, we should take it.
One of those nice things for many people is taking their dogs for a walk. It's a good way to get the family outside and get a little exercise.
There are two dogs at our house, pugs. They are a source of joy for the children. They seem to be happy to see everybody, although they are sometimes dressed like princesses or clone troopers.
Out on a normal walk Tuesday morning, one of the dogs apparently ate something off somebody's lawn. It turned out to be some kind of industrial-strength rat poison.
Now, there are no rats around the neighborhood. There might be a few too many squirrels and a raccoon or two, but no rats. So, why anybody would need industrial-strength rat poison is beyond my brain.
Well, there is one reason: You are evil.
Now, I'm not happy when a dog relieves itself on the lawn then the owner doesn't pick it up. Most people curse for a second, clean it up and forget about it.
Apparently, that's not enough for some. No, they get so pissed off they put poison out on the lawn.
Now, to be that shortsighted is scary. To be that angry about dog doo-doo is stupid.
Luckily, the dog, after some touch-and-go moments yesterday, may pull through (don't know if I will after seeing the bill). We were lucky. Somebody else might not be.
Imagine, though, if a child had fallen on that lawn and somehow ingested the poison.
Is that much anger worth killing somebody?
Really, summer should be about fun. We work hard all year long, if we can enjoy ourselves during some nice weather, we should take it.
One of those nice things for many people is taking their dogs for a walk. It's a good way to get the family outside and get a little exercise.
There are two dogs at our house, pugs. They are a source of joy for the children. They seem to be happy to see everybody, although they are sometimes dressed like princesses or clone troopers.
Out on a normal walk Tuesday morning, one of the dogs apparently ate something off somebody's lawn. It turned out to be some kind of industrial-strength rat poison.
Now, there are no rats around the neighborhood. There might be a few too many squirrels and a raccoon or two, but no rats. So, why anybody would need industrial-strength rat poison is beyond my brain.
Well, there is one reason: You are evil.
Now, I'm not happy when a dog relieves itself on the lawn then the owner doesn't pick it up. Most people curse for a second, clean it up and forget about it.
Apparently, that's not enough for some. No, they get so pissed off they put poison out on the lawn.
Now, to be that shortsighted is scary. To be that angry about dog doo-doo is stupid.
Luckily, the dog, after some touch-and-go moments yesterday, may pull through (don't know if I will after seeing the bill). We were lucky. Somebody else might not be.
Imagine, though, if a child had fallen on that lawn and somehow ingested the poison.
Is that much anger worth killing somebody?
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Water shortage
Good Morning and welcome to another perfect summer day!
OK, when did water become such a needed commodity that some can't live without it for more than five minutes.
Here's an example: After gathering the group into the car this past weekend, we set off on the road to the movies.
Five minutes (maybe less) after pulling away from the house, the first plea came: "I'm thirsty."
Look, we were just at home. If you were so thirsty, why didn't you get a drink before we left.
"I'm thirsty. I want water."
We don't have any in the car. Maybe when we get to the movies, we can find the water fountain.
"Why don't we have any water?" came a second voice, this one from further back in the van. "I'm thirsty."
Should we just turn around and submerge everybody in a tub full of water?
Silence.
Made it to the movie without any dehydration problems.
One more example: Taking a walk on a nice summer day to pick up some tomatoes and apples (the store is about three blocks away) could be a fun time.
Then it came: "I need water. I can't make it. I'm so thirsty."
We just left the house 30 seconds ago.
"I------can't-----walk! I----need----water!"
Look, it's not like we are walking in the Sahara. We'll get a drink when we get back.
"What's the Sahara? I can't think, I'm too thirsty. They have water at the store. Can we get some water?"
No, just tomatoes. Deal. We'll be back in 10 minutes. You can have all the water you want.
"But, I'm thirsty now. If you want me to walk, you have to give me some water right now. RIGHT NOW!"
Well, maybe it will rain and you can just look up to the sky.
Magically, it didn't rain. To the store and back took 10 minutes. Everybody survived.
All the requests, though, make you thirsty for something other than water.
Watch Water, Water Every Hare in Animation | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
OK, when did water become such a needed commodity that some can't live without it for more than five minutes.
Here's an example: After gathering the group into the car this past weekend, we set off on the road to the movies.
Five minutes (maybe less) after pulling away from the house, the first plea came: "I'm thirsty."
Look, we were just at home. If you were so thirsty, why didn't you get a drink before we left.
"I'm thirsty. I want water."
We don't have any in the car. Maybe when we get to the movies, we can find the water fountain.
"Why don't we have any water?" came a second voice, this one from further back in the van. "I'm thirsty."
Should we just turn around and submerge everybody in a tub full of water?
Silence.
Made it to the movie without any dehydration problems.
One more example: Taking a walk on a nice summer day to pick up some tomatoes and apples (the store is about three blocks away) could be a fun time.
Then it came: "I need water. I can't make it. I'm so thirsty."
We just left the house 30 seconds ago.
"I------can't-----walk! I----need----water!"
Look, it's not like we are walking in the Sahara. We'll get a drink when we get back.
"What's the Sahara? I can't think, I'm too thirsty. They have water at the store. Can we get some water?"
No, just tomatoes. Deal. We'll be back in 10 minutes. You can have all the water you want.
"But, I'm thirsty now. If you want me to walk, you have to give me some water right now. RIGHT NOW!"
Well, maybe it will rain and you can just look up to the sky.
Magically, it didn't rain. To the store and back took 10 minutes. Everybody survived.
All the requests, though, make you thirsty for something other than water.
Watch Water, Water Every Hare in Animation | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, June 29, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Songs of summer
Good Morning and welcome back to summer!
It starts innocently enough.
"OK, guys, why don't you go outside and play. It's a nice day."
Before the second sentence is halfway done, the door has been thrown open and the little feet are running down the steps.
Moments later, the basketballs are out. The bikes are being unlocked. The baseballs are thrown onto the lawn. The dirt is starting to stir.
Great. It's time to play. Forget cleaning the rooms, get to running around.
AHHH, summer.
The sounds of a lawn being cut. The smell of the air with a touch of humidity. The gentle songs of the birds. The screams and yells.
Screams and yells? It's not Halloween.
It doesn't take long before the basketballs are taken out and the bikes are unlocked before the first crisis hits.
"WAAAHHHH!!! He took my ball. WAAAHHH!!!"
OK, there are enough balls to go around and few words later, everything is calm.
Calm for about five minutes (if lucky).
"DAAAADDD! DAAAADDD! She threw a cup at me. It really hurts."
Now, some harsher words and a louder voice seems to calm the situation down.
Then, a few minutes later, it degenerates again.
"STOP IT! STOP IT!. DAAADDD, HE'S CHASING ME. SHE'S CALLING ME NAMES. I'VE FALLEN DOWN. WE'RE THIRSTY. WE'RE HUNGRY."
Forget reality TV, this is reality reality.
You like to keep the little ones busy throughout the summer, but you also want them to have some unscheduled fun. That's where we stand now.
Sorry, have to go, somebody did something to to somebody.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
It starts innocently enough.
"OK, guys, why don't you go outside and play. It's a nice day."
Before the second sentence is halfway done, the door has been thrown open and the little feet are running down the steps.
Moments later, the basketballs are out. The bikes are being unlocked. The baseballs are thrown onto the lawn. The dirt is starting to stir.
Great. It's time to play. Forget cleaning the rooms, get to running around.
AHHH, summer.
The sounds of a lawn being cut. The smell of the air with a touch of humidity. The gentle songs of the birds. The screams and yells.
Screams and yells? It's not Halloween.
It doesn't take long before the basketballs are taken out and the bikes are unlocked before the first crisis hits.
"WAAAHHHH!!! He took my ball. WAAAHHH!!!"
OK, there are enough balls to go around and few words later, everything is calm.
Calm for about five minutes (if lucky).
"DAAAADDD! DAAAADDD! She threw a cup at me. It really hurts."
Now, some harsher words and a louder voice seems to calm the situation down.
Then, a few minutes later, it degenerates again.
"STOP IT! STOP IT!. DAAADDD, HE'S CHASING ME. SHE'S CALLING ME NAMES. I'VE FALLEN DOWN. WE'RE THIRSTY. WE'RE HUNGRY."
Forget reality TV, this is reality reality.
You like to keep the little ones busy throughout the summer, but you also want them to have some unscheduled fun. That's where we stand now.
Sorry, have to go, somebody did something to to somebody.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, June 26, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Memories
Good Morning and welcome to the weekend!
You know, the death of anybody brings back a flood of memories. Where you were during different times in your life. What you were thinking years ago. Who were your friends.
It's like watching one of those old movie news reels that used to run in theaters (Believe it or not, this was how they used to get the news.). The difference, of course, is the reel runs in your head, not on the screen.
That happened to millions around the world Thursday when, first, it was leaked that Farrah Fawcett had died. Those news reels went into overdrive a few hours later with the announcement that Michael Jackson had died.
For more than a few, Fawcett and Jackson defined an era.
If you grew up in the 1970s, Farrah Fawcett was all over the place. She was on 'Charlies Angels.' She was on commercials. She was on bedroom walls. Heck, she was even married to the 'Six Million Dollar Man.' Only the other biggest star of the day.
Meanwhile, there was the Jackson 5, with Michael Jackson singing in front. Now, as a child, it was neat to see somebody your age performing on television. We watched the cartoon. We sang along. Of course, we didn't know about the behind-the-scenes abuse, but this wasn't the age of all-access.
Much like many quick shooting stars, by the mid-80s, Fawcett was a non-entity. There were other television stars. There were other posters.
That's about the time Michael Jackson broke out of the shadow of the Jackson 5. By the time the album 'Thriller' came out, Jackson was the biggest star in the world. As much as any other singer/group, the emergence of MTV brought Jackson closer to everybody.
I remember rushing home from school in 1983 because MTV was going to have the world debut of Jackson's 'Thriller' video. We watched it, then got on the phone and called our friends to talk about it. Yes, this was way before text messaging. While I didn't personally know anybody who had one of those red zipper jackets or walked around with one glove, Jackson's music still came out of the radio on a daily basis.
I look around now that these two have died and wonder if there are any more stars. A quick poll in our house didn't bring much recognition of Jackson. Forget even mentioning Farrah.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
You know, the death of anybody brings back a flood of memories. Where you were during different times in your life. What you were thinking years ago. Who were your friends.
It's like watching one of those old movie news reels that used to run in theaters (Believe it or not, this was how they used to get the news.). The difference, of course, is the reel runs in your head, not on the screen.
That happened to millions around the world Thursday when, first, it was leaked that Farrah Fawcett had died. Those news reels went into overdrive a few hours later with the announcement that Michael Jackson had died.
For more than a few, Fawcett and Jackson defined an era.
If you grew up in the 1970s, Farrah Fawcett was all over the place. She was on 'Charlies Angels.' She was on commercials. She was on bedroom walls. Heck, she was even married to the 'Six Million Dollar Man.' Only the other biggest star of the day.
Meanwhile, there was the Jackson 5, with Michael Jackson singing in front. Now, as a child, it was neat to see somebody your age performing on television. We watched the cartoon. We sang along. Of course, we didn't know about the behind-the-scenes abuse, but this wasn't the age of all-access.
Much like many quick shooting stars, by the mid-80s, Fawcett was a non-entity. There were other television stars. There were other posters.
That's about the time Michael Jackson broke out of the shadow of the Jackson 5. By the time the album 'Thriller' came out, Jackson was the biggest star in the world. As much as any other singer/group, the emergence of MTV brought Jackson closer to everybody.
I remember rushing home from school in 1983 because MTV was going to have the world debut of Jackson's 'Thriller' video. We watched it, then got on the phone and called our friends to talk about it. Yes, this was way before text messaging. While I didn't personally know anybody who had one of those red zipper jackets or walked around with one glove, Jackson's music still came out of the radio on a daily basis.
I look around now that these two have died and wonder if there are any more stars. A quick poll in our house didn't bring much recognition of Jackson. Forget even mentioning Farrah.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Is this it?
Good Morning and welcome to the heat!
Yes, it looks like summer may finally be arriving. The temperatures are pushing into the 90s and the humidity is going up, up, up.
So, now what do you do? You want to enjoy the nice weather, but, when the heat is turned on, it makes it tough to spend a lot of time outside.
Staying inside? Did that all winter. Enough of looking at the walls and counting the number of stitches on the couch.
Besides, sitting around with the air conditioner running all day only makes PECO happy.
Here are some other ideas:
Go to the movies: Now, I know the prices are out of hand, but there are ways around it. Matinees are a great deal (if you can swing the time). Hit the dollar store before and bring your own snacks. Enjoy.
Go to the library: Once again, it's a great place to get lost. There are a lot of programs running in local libraries to keep the little ones busy. So, grab a new book, start reading and let everything fade away.
Head to the park: OK, now that doesn't necessarily clear up the heat idea. The key here is finding a park with a couple of trees and a playground. You can sit under the tree, sip some cold water and let everybody else get their energy out.
Window shop: Leave the wallet at home and hit the malls. It's always cool to check out new stuff. Walk around. Get some exercise. Enjoy somebody's air conditioning.
Play: Hey, it's hot. Deal with it. We've been looking forward to summer all year long. Get out and sweat. You can always take along some water.
Sleep: When all else fails, put the head down on a pillow. Then again, what's the chances of that?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Yes, it looks like summer may finally be arriving. The temperatures are pushing into the 90s and the humidity is going up, up, up.
So, now what do you do? You want to enjoy the nice weather, but, when the heat is turned on, it makes it tough to spend a lot of time outside.
Staying inside? Did that all winter. Enough of looking at the walls and counting the number of stitches on the couch.
Besides, sitting around with the air conditioner running all day only makes PECO happy.
Here are some other ideas:
Go to the movies: Now, I know the prices are out of hand, but there are ways around it. Matinees are a great deal (if you can swing the time). Hit the dollar store before and bring your own snacks. Enjoy.
Go to the library: Once again, it's a great place to get lost. There are a lot of programs running in local libraries to keep the little ones busy. So, grab a new book, start reading and let everything fade away.
Head to the park: OK, now that doesn't necessarily clear up the heat idea. The key here is finding a park with a couple of trees and a playground. You can sit under the tree, sip some cold water and let everybody else get their energy out.
Window shop: Leave the wallet at home and hit the malls. It's always cool to check out new stuff. Walk around. Get some exercise. Enjoy somebody's air conditioning.
Play: Hey, it's hot. Deal with it. We've been looking forward to summer all year long. Get out and sweat. You can always take along some water.
Sleep: When all else fails, put the head down on a pillow. Then again, what's the chances of that?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Rise and Shine --- We really are lucky
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
While watching (or at least reading) about all the turmoil in Iran these last couple of weeks, it makes you really step back and see how lucky we really are.
Beyond all the political rhetoric, we can at least voice our opinion without being shot in the street.
Interesting, somebody much smarter than me brought to my attention the role of women in the Iranian protests. That in itself is amazing in the Middle East. Consider that Saudi Arabia (a 'friend' of the U.S.) doesn't allow women to drive, vote, talk, eat or work.
Hey, we might not be the most enlightened people in the world, but at least we have some equality (at least some of us).
That's not to say it's our place (or any other nation in this world) to step in. This is not the time. This is not the place. Let the people of Iran do it themselves. After all, you can't always get help from outside sources.
So, all those hate-mongers out there who want to keep people down, take a look over the Persian Gulf and rethink your stand.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
While watching (or at least reading) about all the turmoil in Iran these last couple of weeks, it makes you really step back and see how lucky we really are.
Beyond all the political rhetoric, we can at least voice our opinion without being shot in the street.
Interesting, somebody much smarter than me brought to my attention the role of women in the Iranian protests. That in itself is amazing in the Middle East. Consider that Saudi Arabia (a 'friend' of the U.S.) doesn't allow women to drive, vote, talk, eat or work.
Hey, we might not be the most enlightened people in the world, but at least we have some equality (at least some of us).
That's not to say it's our place (or any other nation in this world) to step in. This is not the time. This is not the place. Let the people of Iran do it themselves. After all, you can't always get help from outside sources.
So, all those hate-mongers out there who want to keep people down, take a look over the Persian Gulf and rethink your stand.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Figuring it out
Good Morning and welcome to another dry day!
You would think after all these years, you would have things figured out. You look back through time and remember things certain ways.
I look back and remember my early summers as being a time of freedom. We could do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted.
Go outside and play all day. Run around. Ride bikes. No more cumbersome days of school. Hey, School's Out for Summer!
Well, now, as three pre-teens are running around tearing up the house (and yelling and fighting and yelling some more), I've come to realize that free-for-all needs to be scheduled.
I need to plan out more activities during the day. It's not quite like school, but there is a method to that madness.
Keep them busy. Keep them moving.
Now, here's hoping I can keep up.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
You would think after all these years, you would have things figured out. You look back through time and remember things certain ways.
I look back and remember my early summers as being a time of freedom. We could do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted.
Go outside and play all day. Run around. Ride bikes. No more cumbersome days of school. Hey, School's Out for Summer!
Well, now, as three pre-teens are running around tearing up the house (and yelling and fighting and yelling some more), I've come to realize that free-for-all needs to be scheduled.
I need to plan out more activities during the day. It's not quite like school, but there is a method to that madness.
Keep them busy. Keep them moving.
Now, here's hoping I can keep up.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, June 22, 2009
Rise and Shine --- More regulations, not less
Good Morning and welcome to yet another week with rain in the forecast!
Is it just me, or when cookie dough is recalled because of an e-Coli outbreak is it time to start holding these companies accountable?
If you can't even make chocolate chip cookies without getting sick, something is wrong. Some apparently believe the government has already reached too far into private business. Well, if we are going to be continually inundated with over processed food that's going to make us sick, it's time for somebody to step up.
We really need to hold these companies accountable for shoddy products. Some of the things may taste good, but they are really just trying to get you hooked on their inferior products.
Or, better yet, just make your own cookie dough. It's actually easier than getting into the car, driving to the store and picking up a package of pre-made stuff. Tastes a lot better as well.
Speaking of cookies...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Is it just me, or when cookie dough is recalled because of an e-Coli outbreak is it time to start holding these companies accountable?
If you can't even make chocolate chip cookies without getting sick, something is wrong. Some apparently believe the government has already reached too far into private business. Well, if we are going to be continually inundated with over processed food that's going to make us sick, it's time for somebody to step up.
We really need to hold these companies accountable for shoddy products. Some of the things may taste good, but they are really just trying to get you hooked on their inferior products.
Or, better yet, just make your own cookie dough. It's actually easier than getting into the car, driving to the store and picking up a package of pre-made stuff. Tastes a lot better as well.
Speaking of cookies...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, June 19, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Technology sucks
Good Morning and welcome to the day before the day before the start of summer!
Yeah, summer as in, rain, rain, rain. I guess everybody who pays those outlandish fees for swim clubs are pretty happy about the late spring weather.
Meanwhile, talking about the land of stupid people, apparently people are standing in line outside of Apple stores around the country to purchase the newest iPhone.
Yay! It's here! It's here! Get out the umprellas, let's camp out in front of a store.
Look, I like toys as much as the next person. As we move into the next phase of the digital world, everybody is going to need something like the iPhone to stay connected.
To stand in line overnight to be the first to get the new one is just plain silly.
Then again...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Yeah, summer as in, rain, rain, rain. I guess everybody who pays those outlandish fees for swim clubs are pretty happy about the late spring weather.
Meanwhile, talking about the land of stupid people, apparently people are standing in line outside of Apple stores around the country to purchase the newest iPhone.
Yay! It's here! It's here! Get out the umprellas, let's camp out in front of a store.
Look, I like toys as much as the next person. As we move into the next phase of the digital world, everybody is going to need something like the iPhone to stay connected.
To stand in line overnight to be the first to get the new one is just plain silly.
Then again...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Save the libraries
Good Morning and welcome to Seattle!
Took in a fantastic show Wednesday night.
The Lansdowne Library kicked off it's summer reading program with a very enjoyable performance from Segal Puppets.
Performing what was called the Silly Side Show Circus, the show kept young and old (me) in stitches. It was funny. It was poignant.
It also didn't cost a dime.
Even with all the digital media out there, the library is still a safe haven. Where else can you pick up today's best-seller and take in a puppet show at one place. OK, Borders may bring in puppets once in a while or hold story times, but you are inundated with "buy, buy, buy."
The unfortunate part of this is the libraries may not survive. Or at least may not survive in their current forms.
The current state budget proposal calls for massive cuts in the funding of libraries. Anywhere from $1 million to $8 million (depending on the GOP and Democratic proposals) will be lost.
That means no more puppet shows. No more summer programs for children.
Eventually, it could mean no more books.
Now, look, many of you may be saying 'So what. I don't need the library.' To which I say, 'Go check it out.' I guarantee you'll spend an hour finding something new.
Even if you don't have any interest in the library, you can still help out. Just send a letter to your local legislator. It only takes a minute to keep somebody smiling.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Took in a fantastic show Wednesday night.
The Lansdowne Library kicked off it's summer reading program with a very enjoyable performance from Segal Puppets.
Performing what was called the Silly Side Show Circus, the show kept young and old (me) in stitches. It was funny. It was poignant.
It also didn't cost a dime.
Even with all the digital media out there, the library is still a safe haven. Where else can you pick up today's best-seller and take in a puppet show at one place. OK, Borders may bring in puppets once in a while or hold story times, but you are inundated with "buy, buy, buy."
The unfortunate part of this is the libraries may not survive. Or at least may not survive in their current forms.
The current state budget proposal calls for massive cuts in the funding of libraries. Anywhere from $1 million to $8 million (depending on the GOP and Democratic proposals) will be lost.
That means no more puppet shows. No more summer programs for children.
Eventually, it could mean no more books.
Now, look, many of you may be saying 'So what. I don't need the library.' To which I say, 'Go check it out.' I guarantee you'll spend an hour finding something new.
Even if you don't have any interest in the library, you can still help out. Just send a letter to your local legislator. It only takes a minute to keep somebody smiling.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Rise and Shine --- TV is a joke
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
So, it's been kind of funny to follow this whole David Letterman/Sarah Palin dust-up. For those who don't know about it (or don't care), HERE'S ONE STORY.
Apparently, there were about a dozen protesters outside of Letterman's studio Tuesday night to ask for the host's firing.
Great. Wonderful. People have nothing better to do than worry about a TV host making millions and a woman from Alaska. Hey at least, it pumped up the Late Show's ratings. If I make a joke about Sarah Palin would it pump up my ratings?
By the way, according to Google Maps, there's no way to drive from Media to Alaska. So, until Sarah Palin finally becomes the conservative Oprah and leaves the frozen tundra, let's just pretend she's stopped talking.
So, now that the flap appears to be over you can go back searching for news on Jon and Kate or Spencer and Heidi (whoever they are). Better yet, get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Or at least search for it...
If you have any good links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, it's been kind of funny to follow this whole David Letterman/Sarah Palin dust-up. For those who don't know about it (or don't care), HERE'S ONE STORY.
Apparently, there were about a dozen protesters outside of Letterman's studio Tuesday night to ask for the host's firing.
Great. Wonderful. People have nothing better to do than worry about a TV host making millions and a woman from Alaska. Hey at least, it pumped up the Late Show's ratings. If I make a joke about Sarah Palin would it pump up my ratings?
By the way, according to Google Maps, there's no way to drive from Media to Alaska. So, until Sarah Palin finally becomes the conservative Oprah and leaves the frozen tundra, let's just pretend she's stopped talking.
So, now that the flap appears to be over you can go back searching for news on Jon and Kate or Spencer and Heidi (whoever they are). Better yet, get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Or at least search for it...
If you have any good links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- On PEDs and superheroes
Good Morning and welcome to the PED-free zone!
On the heels of the Internet storm that forced Phillies outfielder Raul Ibanez to emphatically announce he wasn't taking performance enhancing drugs, I give you THIS.
Now, I'll be the first to admit it was fun to see all those home runs hit during the 1990s. The Mark McGwire/Sammy Sosa battle made another "interesting" Phillies season bearable. Then again, what did we expect when the pitching staff not only featured Toby Borland, but also Wayne Gomes and Yorkis Perez?
Now that those 'performance enhancing drugs' are banned from baseball, it's time we took a step further and started testing superheroes. What are we teaching our children? It's OK for some, but not for others?
Sure, Captain America may look like an 'average' guy, but if he can come back from the dead, there's got to be some illegal stuff going on there.
And, what about Superman? After all those battles with Lex Luthor are we supposed to believe he's not getting a little help.
Just replace 'Randy 'The Ram' Robinson' with Superman in the movie 'The Wrestler' and it's the same movie.
Now, don't even get me started on Batman...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
On the heels of the Internet storm that forced Phillies outfielder Raul Ibanez to emphatically announce he wasn't taking performance enhancing drugs, I give you THIS.
Now, I'll be the first to admit it was fun to see all those home runs hit during the 1990s. The Mark McGwire/Sammy Sosa battle made another "interesting" Phillies season bearable. Then again, what did we expect when the pitching staff not only featured Toby Borland, but also Wayne Gomes and Yorkis Perez?
Now that those 'performance enhancing drugs' are banned from baseball, it's time we took a step further and started testing superheroes. What are we teaching our children? It's OK for some, but not for others?
Sure, Captain America may look like an 'average' guy, but if he can come back from the dead, there's got to be some illegal stuff going on there.
And, what about Superman? After all those battles with Lex Luthor are we supposed to believe he's not getting a little help.
Just replace 'Randy 'The Ram' Robinson' with Superman in the movie 'The Wrestler' and it's the same movie.
Now, don't even get me started on Batman...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, June 15, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Coming back
Good Morning and welcome to the first day of the week!
Did you ever notice that taking a week off only makes you want to take another week off? Sure, there is something nice about structure, but there's something a lot nicer about playing baseball/basketball/riding bikes all day. Then again, being so far away from 10-years old, maybe it's just so much nostalgia.
One thing you never realize until you are way past that 10 mark is how good you have it. You go along day-by-day only to have your parent's put limits on your 'freedom.' Then, you become a parent and realize you never had more freedom. Of course, the argument is lost on the 10-year old (or 7-year old or 4-year old) when you tell them it's time for bed or to come inside.
That's even more evident during the summer. The temperature is nice. The sun is shining bright and there are a lot of noises coming through the window.
Where do you draw the line? When is it time to put the foot down firmly?
Well, I guess it's all an internal battle. Of course, when your alarm goes off at 3:15 a.m., well, that battle at least has a time limit.
Then, you have to fight through the sandman to fill the next day and the day after and the day after.
You just have to make it fun not only for those who would bounce off the walls, but for yourself.
So, what happened to my sneakers?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Did you ever notice that taking a week off only makes you want to take another week off? Sure, there is something nice about structure, but there's something a lot nicer about playing baseball/basketball/riding bikes all day. Then again, being so far away from 10-years old, maybe it's just so much nostalgia.
One thing you never realize until you are way past that 10 mark is how good you have it. You go along day-by-day only to have your parent's put limits on your 'freedom.' Then, you become a parent and realize you never had more freedom. Of course, the argument is lost on the 10-year old (or 7-year old or 4-year old) when you tell them it's time for bed or to come inside.
That's even more evident during the summer. The temperature is nice. The sun is shining bright and there are a lot of noises coming through the window.
Where do you draw the line? When is it time to put the foot down firmly?
Well, I guess it's all an internal battle. Of course, when your alarm goes off at 3:15 a.m., well, that battle at least has a time limit.
Then, you have to fight through the sandman to fill the next day and the day after and the day after.
You just have to make it fun not only for those who would bounce off the walls, but for yourself.
So, what happened to my sneakers?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Welcome to summer
Good Morning and today 'officially' begins Summer!
Well, at least it does around here. While one third of the triumvirate has a week left of school, two are done today.
Now, the big question hangs over everybody: What to do about it?
Sure, we can fill up the pool or turn on the sprinkler a couple of times a week. Maybe play a little basketball or ride bikes. A little trip to the library can break up the summer. There are always plenty of movies hitting the multiplex.
That still leaves roughly 23 hours a day to fill.
The first month won't be so bad. Everybody will get a little bit of rest. It will be nice to not have to worry about getting out the door at a certain time.
There won't be the nightly fights over homework and bedtime (although that will always be somewhat of a fight). Breakfast can be a bit more relaxed. So can lunch.
After that, though, there's going to be a lot of bouncing off the walls, or grass for that matter. The energy level will go through the roof. Excuse me while I get fitted for a straight jacket.
Now I know why school was invented.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, at least it does around here. While one third of the triumvirate has a week left of school, two are done today.
Now, the big question hangs over everybody: What to do about it?
Sure, we can fill up the pool or turn on the sprinkler a couple of times a week. Maybe play a little basketball or ride bikes. A little trip to the library can break up the summer. There are always plenty of movies hitting the multiplex.
That still leaves roughly 23 hours a day to fill.
The first month won't be so bad. Everybody will get a little bit of rest. It will be nice to not have to worry about getting out the door at a certain time.
There won't be the nightly fights over homework and bedtime (although that will always be somewhat of a fight). Breakfast can be a bit more relaxed. So can lunch.
After that, though, there's going to be a lot of bouncing off the walls, or grass for that matter. The energy level will go through the roof. Excuse me while I get fitted for a straight jacket.
Now I know why school was invented.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Rise and Shine --- New Moon, New Readers
Good Morning to all you gentle readers!
If you ever click on the 'Most Popular' tab on the front page of www.delcotimes.com, you'll most likely see 'Obituaries for (any date)' as the No. 1 story.
One of the things so popular with newspaper Internet sites are the obituaries. It gives former local residents living all over the country a chance to connect with people by seeing who has died. We here at the Internet desk get calls and e-mails daily looking for specific obituaries.
That's expected.
Every once in a while, though, the unexpected happens.
Take Monday for example. By far the most popular story on the Web site was headlined 'WATCH: 'New Moon' trailer shows Lautner become werewolf.' It was a short story about a movie that won't be released until late November.
Now, not being of a certain age, I don't know anything about 'Twilight' except that it's a vampire movie. Somehow, I don't think it's like a 'VAMPIRE' movie.
Anyway, until Jon and Kate visit the office for their show, vampires will have to do.
By the way, here's the trailer again:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
If you ever click on the 'Most Popular' tab on the front page of www.delcotimes.com, you'll most likely see 'Obituaries for (any date)' as the No. 1 story.
One of the things so popular with newspaper Internet sites are the obituaries. It gives former local residents living all over the country a chance to connect with people by seeing who has died. We here at the Internet desk get calls and e-mails daily looking for specific obituaries.
That's expected.
Every once in a while, though, the unexpected happens.
Take Monday for example. By far the most popular story on the Web site was headlined 'WATCH: 'New Moon' trailer shows Lautner become werewolf.' It was a short story about a movie that won't be released until late November.
Now, not being of a certain age, I don't know anything about 'Twilight' except that it's a vampire movie. Somehow, I don't think it's like a 'VAMPIRE' movie.
Anyway, until Jon and Kate visit the office for their show, vampires will have to do.
By the way, here's the trailer again:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, June 1, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Hitting the links
Good Morning and welcome back to another week!
For nine months of the year, it's not even a thought. Then, June comes along and boom, the begging starts: 'Can we play miniature golf? Can We play miniature golf? CAN WE PLAY MINIATURE GOLF!?!?'
Now, it's a game that can be fun, but, while there are a few around the area, nothing beats the miniature golf down the shore.
Maybe it's the hot sun. Maybe it's the calling of the seagulls. Maybe it's just that there are so darn many. You can drive past a miniature golf place around here, but, get down the shore, and it calls.
Hitting a brightly colored ball through a windmill makes us all seven years old.
The funny thing is, though, when you really are 7-years old (or 9 or 4), miniature golf is 'real golf.' So, having the opportunity to get down the shore for a day this weekend, the request started before even packing the car.
By the time the smell of the sea salt hit the nose, it was constant.
Finally, the course was picked out and everybody had the right colored ball.
Then, boom. It was time to hit drives. The swings from the putters could have put out an eye.
Then the rules start to change. Forget where the ball actually rolled to, pick it up and put it close to the hole. Knock it in for a two.
Wouldn't have it any other way.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
For nine months of the year, it's not even a thought. Then, June comes along and boom, the begging starts: 'Can we play miniature golf? Can We play miniature golf? CAN WE PLAY MINIATURE GOLF!?!?'
Now, it's a game that can be fun, but, while there are a few around the area, nothing beats the miniature golf down the shore.
Maybe it's the hot sun. Maybe it's the calling of the seagulls. Maybe it's just that there are so darn many. You can drive past a miniature golf place around here, but, get down the shore, and it calls.
Hitting a brightly colored ball through a windmill makes us all seven years old.
The funny thing is, though, when you really are 7-years old (or 9 or 4), miniature golf is 'real golf.' So, having the opportunity to get down the shore for a day this weekend, the request started before even packing the car.
By the time the smell of the sea salt hit the nose, it was constant.
Finally, the course was picked out and everybody had the right colored ball.
Then, boom. It was time to hit drives. The swings from the putters could have put out an eye.
Then the rules start to change. Forget where the ball actually rolled to, pick it up and put it close to the hole. Knock it in for a two.
Wouldn't have it any other way.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 29, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Linking today's best
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the week!
Meanwhile, don't hold your breath for Prince Harry to stop by Delco during his visit to Philadelphia today. He'd probably bump into somebody while getting a Wawa sandwich and we'd have an international incident.
We also have this idiot who called 911 after not getting his orange juice at McDonald's. Anybody want to bet he has some ties to Delco. By the way, if you're so angry it upsets you when your OJ doesn't come fast enough, you probably send letters to THIS PILLAR OF SOCIETY.
Then again, we live in a world where THIS BRAINIAC and THIS GENIUS can be our next door neighbor.
Well, we do have THESE KIND OF PEOPLE teaching our youth. What do we expect?
Thankfully, HE'S BACK! Now, there's the comedy we've been missing.
Speaking of comedy...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Meanwhile, don't hold your breath for Prince Harry to stop by Delco during his visit to Philadelphia today. He'd probably bump into somebody while getting a Wawa sandwich and we'd have an international incident.
We also have this idiot who called 911 after not getting his orange juice at McDonald's. Anybody want to bet he has some ties to Delco. By the way, if you're so angry it upsets you when your OJ doesn't come fast enough, you probably send letters to THIS PILLAR OF SOCIETY.
Then again, we live in a world where THIS BRAINIAC and THIS GENIUS can be our next door neighbor.
Well, we do have THESE KIND OF PEOPLE teaching our youth. What do we expect?
Thankfully, HE'S BACK! Now, there's the comedy we've been missing.
Speaking of comedy...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- MMIX-ing it up
Good Morning and welcome to another Thursday in a long line of Thursdays!
Sometimes (OK, most of the time), it appears teachers are giving students busy work between tests. For instance, last night a fourth-grader came home with a little bit more homework than usual.
By the way, thanks for that as the school year is winding down and the sunlight is stretching longer.
So, part of the homework was using Roman Numerals. This fourth-grade class had to change 'regular' numbers into Roman Numerals and vice versa.
Now, I understand the multiplication and division homework. I understand the word problem homework. I understand the spelling homework.
But, Roman Numerals? What, are we going to get a re-incarnation of Julius Caesar and change back?
Really, what use is Roman Numerals anymore. Unless they need to find out how many Super Bowls there have been or you have one of those goofy, over sized clocks, there's no need for this.
Or, as we used to say in school, 'The teachers are bored at the end of the year and just want to keep everybody from looking out the window.'
How about some practical learning?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Sometimes (OK, most of the time), it appears teachers are giving students busy work between tests. For instance, last night a fourth-grader came home with a little bit more homework than usual.
By the way, thanks for that as the school year is winding down and the sunlight is stretching longer.
So, part of the homework was using Roman Numerals. This fourth-grade class had to change 'regular' numbers into Roman Numerals and vice versa.
Now, I understand the multiplication and division homework. I understand the word problem homework. I understand the spelling homework.
But, Roman Numerals? What, are we going to get a re-incarnation of Julius Caesar and change back?
Really, what use is Roman Numerals anymore. Unless they need to find out how many Super Bowls there have been or you have one of those goofy, over sized clocks, there's no need for this.
Or, as we used to say in school, 'The teachers are bored at the end of the year and just want to keep everybody from looking out the window.'
How about some practical learning?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Stop the hate
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
Well, yesterday was certainly a banner day for those who live their lives to hate (and make money doing it).
No matter what he may say to those who hang on every word, Rush Limbaugh is only in it for the money. If he can make that money on the back of hate, than so be it. If he can make that money by inciting riots, then so be it. If he can make that money by twisting logic, then so be it.
By the way, doesn't he sound a lot like THIS GUY.
You know, sometimes when I turn on the radio it's still tuned to his station (thanks to listening to the Phillies game the night before). Yesterday, before I could get my hand to button to turn it off, I had to hear Limbaugh's latest rant of racist hate.
As many know by now, he called President Barack Obama and the woman he nominated for a Supreme Court post, Sonia Sotomayor, 'reverse racists.' I could picture the foam coming out of his mouth as he ranted on and on about their 'racist policies' and 'racist decisions.'
Why was he so angry? Well, Obama had the nerve to nomination not only a woman by an Hispanic woman at that.
The truth be told, though, it's Rush Limbaugh who is the racist (or at least he's using that common denominator to get ratings which means more money in his pocket). Like we needed more evidence after the whole Donovan McNabb fiasco on national TV a few years ago.
He's a blanket racist and would only be happy if white men ran the world. Just like those who put confederate flags on their pick up trucks, they try to couch it with fake excuses, but it only smells like one thing.
Remember, hate only gets you so far.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, yesterday was certainly a banner day for those who live their lives to hate (and make money doing it).
No matter what he may say to those who hang on every word, Rush Limbaugh is only in it for the money. If he can make that money on the back of hate, than so be it. If he can make that money by inciting riots, then so be it. If he can make that money by twisting logic, then so be it.
By the way, doesn't he sound a lot like THIS GUY.
You know, sometimes when I turn on the radio it's still tuned to his station (thanks to listening to the Phillies game the night before). Yesterday, before I could get my hand to button to turn it off, I had to hear Limbaugh's latest rant of racist hate.
As many know by now, he called President Barack Obama and the woman he nominated for a Supreme Court post, Sonia Sotomayor, 'reverse racists.' I could picture the foam coming out of his mouth as he ranted on and on about their 'racist policies' and 'racist decisions.'
Why was he so angry? Well, Obama had the nerve to nomination not only a woman by an Hispanic woman at that.
The truth be told, though, it's Rush Limbaugh who is the racist (or at least he's using that common denominator to get ratings which means more money in his pocket). Like we needed more evidence after the whole Donovan McNabb fiasco on national TV a few years ago.
He's a blanket racist and would only be happy if white men ran the world. Just like those who put confederate flags on their pick up trucks, they try to couch it with fake excuses, but it only smells like one thing.
Remember, hate only gets you so far.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Rise and Shine --- A decade later
Good Morning and welcome to the day after!
It certainly appears children are growing older quicker these days. Thanks to the pressures of school and the world in general a, say, 10-year old can't always act like a 10-year old.
That is, a 10-year old is still just a child, whether he wants to believe it or not. Sure, there are changes they go through. The world is starting to look a little different. There seems to be a place in the world for the 10-year old that wasn't there when he was 5, 6 or even 9-years old.
Just imagine the changes, though.
Let's say a bright-eyed boy was born 10 years ago. He came into a simpler world with a smile on his face. His family waited and waited and waited (well, waited some more) before finally announcing his arrival. As an aside, how Mom was able to endure those 36 hours is still a miracle.
Still, he came into a world without the Internet, without DVDs, without iPods.
Now, he's growing up. It's fun to see the young man he's becoming, but it's also sad to see the young boy he's leaving behind.
He's still fun to be around (well, those times when he doesn't have teenager attitude). Hey, he'll even still give a hug once in a while.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
It certainly appears children are growing older quicker these days. Thanks to the pressures of school and the world in general a, say, 10-year old can't always act like a 10-year old.
That is, a 10-year old is still just a child, whether he wants to believe it or not. Sure, there are changes they go through. The world is starting to look a little different. There seems to be a place in the world for the 10-year old that wasn't there when he was 5, 6 or even 9-years old.
Just imagine the changes, though.
Let's say a bright-eyed boy was born 10 years ago. He came into a simpler world with a smile on his face. His family waited and waited and waited (well, waited some more) before finally announcing his arrival. As an aside, how Mom was able to endure those 36 hours is still a miracle.
Still, he came into a world without the Internet, without DVDs, without iPods.
Now, he's growing up. It's fun to see the young man he's becoming, but it's also sad to see the young boy he's leaving behind.
He's still fun to be around (well, those times when he doesn't have teenager attitude). Hey, he'll even still give a hug once in a while.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, May 25, 2009
Rise and Shine --- A holiday weekend
Good Morning and welcome to Memorial Day!
Memorial Day was always one of the best holidays as a child, because it meant a day off a couple of weeks before school was done for the summer. It was like an extra taste of vacation. After Memorial Day, school was like a blur. Most of the teachers were ready to get out, all the students were ready to get out and there wasn't much work getting done.
I know it's the same seeing the same time of year through other young eyes.
Of course, with the extra-long weekend and the heat, that meant it was time for some water sports. So, a newly-minted 7-year old enlisted his 4-year old sister to scout the garage for the pool.
It was pulled out early Sunday morning and sat on the driveway. After putting it off as long as possible, I spent the next couple of hours (or four inning of the Phillies/Yankees game) blowing the thing up with a bike pump.
So, by mid-afternoon the pool was blown up and water was slowing flowing in. A little while later (it seemed like 10 minutes to me, but about 10 hours to the 7- and 4-year old), the pool was ready to go.
Bathing suits were on, boats were at the ready, beach balls were round and bouncy.
So, the mad dash to the pool began and ended with a splash.
Then....
Silence.
Then...
AHHHH, it's too cold. It's too cold. AHHHH.
Good thing I had the bike pump and didn't blow the whole thing up by mouth.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Memorial Day was always one of the best holidays as a child, because it meant a day off a couple of weeks before school was done for the summer. It was like an extra taste of vacation. After Memorial Day, school was like a blur. Most of the teachers were ready to get out, all the students were ready to get out and there wasn't much work getting done.
I know it's the same seeing the same time of year through other young eyes.
Of course, with the extra-long weekend and the heat, that meant it was time for some water sports. So, a newly-minted 7-year old enlisted his 4-year old sister to scout the garage for the pool.
It was pulled out early Sunday morning and sat on the driveway. After putting it off as long as possible, I spent the next couple of hours (or four inning of the Phillies/Yankees game) blowing the thing up with a bike pump.
So, by mid-afternoon the pool was blown up and water was slowing flowing in. A little while later (it seemed like 10 minutes to me, but about 10 hours to the 7- and 4-year old), the pool was ready to go.
Bathing suits were on, boats were at the ready, beach balls were round and bouncy.
So, the mad dash to the pool began and ended with a splash.
Then....
Silence.
Then...
AHHHH, it's too cold. It's too cold. AHHHH.
Good thing I had the bike pump and didn't blow the whole thing up by mouth.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, May 22, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Ramblin' on
Good Morning and welcome to what, for many, is an extra-long weekend!
Is anybody really surprised gas prices are going back up as summer nears. Do fuel companies really think we are that stupid. Sure, we'll be forced to pay the prices, but, come on, at least admit the gouging. It's not like it doesn't happen anywhere else. Rental prices down the shore double from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We know it's going to happen. Nobody pretends it's anything else but trying to make the most money when people really need the break. Heck, even the price of pizza goes up on the weekends (and Friday's during Lent).
Send your letters here: Sunoco CEO Lynn Elsenhans, Sunoco Inc., 1735 Market Street, Suite LL, Philadelphia, PA 19103-7583; Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, Exxon Mobil Corp., 5959 Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039-2298.
Meanwhile, does anybody really care about these American Idol winners and their whining. Really, have any of these people done anything remotely listenable since they've been crowned? For some reason, there were 100 million votes cast during this week's finale. That's just ridiculous.
Finally, is there a dumber person in American than this banana bandit?. Sorry, I forgot
Here's something to get you through the weekend:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Is anybody really surprised gas prices are going back up as summer nears. Do fuel companies really think we are that stupid. Sure, we'll be forced to pay the prices, but, come on, at least admit the gouging. It's not like it doesn't happen anywhere else. Rental prices down the shore double from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We know it's going to happen. Nobody pretends it's anything else but trying to make the most money when people really need the break. Heck, even the price of pizza goes up on the weekends (and Friday's during Lent).
Send your letters here: Sunoco CEO Lynn Elsenhans, Sunoco Inc., 1735 Market Street, Suite LL, Philadelphia, PA 19103-7583; Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, Exxon Mobil Corp., 5959 Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039-2298.
Meanwhile, does anybody really care about these American Idol winners and their whining. Really, have any of these people done anything remotely listenable since they've been crowned? For some reason, there were 100 million votes cast during this week's finale. That's just ridiculous.
Finally, is there a dumber person in American than this banana bandit?. Sorry, I forgot
Here's something to get you through the weekend:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
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