Stuff I did

Make BOLD the things YOU have done.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars (it was accidental)
3. Played in a band (Hot Bread! okay, so we technically never played, but the song names were pretty damn cool)
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain (or hiked up a mountain)
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang/played a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David in person
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie (the scene was cut but I was still filmed and paid)
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Made a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

testing

Will THIS post be eaten by Multiply, too?

Press of Atlantic City story

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/182/story/353188.html

She wasn't kidding when she said they would cut the story down completely. Oh well. Publicity is publicity, even if it's for. . . well, nothing, I guess.

Good Morning - 12/19/08

Screw the internet, I need to satisfy my true addiction this morning - caffeine. (I almost wrote nicotine, but I haven't had a cigarette in seven years)

• Nanny called in sick this morning at 7:40. Still has remnants of the flu. Wouldn't have been so bad but I actually had a job for today (or half the day) teaching third graders. I also had to take the twins to the doctor and see Johnathan's holiday program. I'll still take the twins to the doctor, I need to work my biceps anyway. Nothing like baby curls to strengthen the arms.
• I was up four times overnight. The first time was to give Morgan a change of diaper and a bottle of milk. The second time was when my entire body (or so it seemed) flared up with itchiness, despite taking an oatmeal bath at 10 PM. The third was when Johnathan peed in bed, soaking the sheets and his mother (he sometimes sneaks up to our bed in the middle of the night) - I'd say she was pissed, but that would be a very poor pun. Nothing like changing sheets at 4:15. The last time was 6 AM, when Michael was screaming for a diaper change and a bottle, which woke up Morgan. Okay, so I was up three times. . .
• They are still teething and we can see more teeth coming through the gums. Probably what is making them so cranky. Morgan has seven teeth, and Michael has four or five.
• Michael ate a piece of Oreo cookie this morning. Johnathan has eaten his last cookie in the living room. . .
• Did some writing yesterday - it felt nice.
• Don't make me throw my shoe at you.
• This means you Shellie.
• Other than what I've written, I've got nothing.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....

Good Morning, 12/15/08

I think I missed Sunday. It did not exist for me.

• I really have to take issue with a friend who says kids are dumbasses because they believe in Santa. I believe in letting my child be a child and not worrying him with that issue when so many more are more important. For instance, I'd rather him believe some fat dude with a white beard and a red outfit delivers presents to him as a reward for good behavior rather than believing holding a gun makes him more powerful. . . Before you knock me as anti-gun, let me state I do own several of the weapons.
• I am thinking that Hawaii might be a good choice of places to live.
• Asia. A simply awesome reminder of the early eighties. I remember walking to school with my SANYO walkman knock-off, listening to the cassette. . .
• Maybe I need to refuel and grab some Quiet Riot, as well.
• Had a weird dream involving a woman I know but haven't seen in a while. It was sensual - the thing is I never held any of those feelings fer her.
• The dream also had appearances from the following: My Dad (first on a screen, then walking with me through white halls of a hospital like structure), Lady (my parents' dog), two of Lady's puppies (still puppies after ten years), and some hooligan/thugs that I started a fight with. I NEVER start fights, so WTF?
• Don't tase me bro!
• I wish I knew what I could do for a job. I realize I have no skills, but that didn't stop President Bush. . .
• I'm at a loss. My life, at the moment, just isn't that exciting.
• Did I mention I ran into my friend who is doing rewrites for a movie being filmed in New Zealand? I did!
• So I guess that was the excitement for this month.

Mom always said don't play ball in the house.

of course

Since I announced I am closing my cafepress store, someone emails today about the Swearengen's Pride (Loopy) items and wants one with it printed on a thong. . .

All I can say to that is. . . okay.

Good Morning, 12/11/08

Whoops. I skipped a day. I WAS pretty busy yesterday. . . So here's a red eye for your addiction.

• The nanny/sitter has spoiled Morgan. I had him falling asleep pretty much on his own, but now he won't go down unless cradled in her arms.
• I had four calls for job prospects yesterday. If they shake out like previous prospects, I should still remain on the unemployed/disabled list for a few more weeks, at least.
• The AC Press interview went well, though I talked more about cancer than I wanted to. However, that's what the article is going to be about - the cancer I went through and what I'm doing now. It could have gone a bit better and I'm really not comfortable with my picture in the papers anymore. Bah. I'll deal with it.
• I've done too much for free in my life. What did I get out of it? Cancer. Fucking cancer. Fucking Karma is BULLSHIT.
• Goddamn monkeys keep stealing my cookies.
• The client appointment WILL lead to work. Not much, but even a little work is good work.
• My oldest son (still not used to THAT) had basketball practice last night. He is UNCOORDINATED. Just like his dad.
• ALLcaps still BUG mE!
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GEhQ1TQ4K8&eurl=http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=502640272&ref=mf&feature=player_embedded
• That's the theatre company my cousin was a founder of. It's a pretty funny video.
  
• Speaking of my cousin, Cyrano will be on PBS's Great Performances in January.
• I think there is something in my ducts causing me such throat and lung discomfort. Or it's an allergy to cats.
• I'm looking for a good idea. I'm fresh out.
• I will be closing my cafepress store at the end of the year. The CafePress system sucks and I don't make enough to sustain it.
• lay on Macduff, and damned be him ethat first cries hold, enough!

A red eye is better than a brown eye, depending on who you are.

Good Morning, 12/9/08

It's a jump to the right. . .

• I had a fantastic doctor's appointment today. I am back on steroids - LOW dose, Azithromycin, and Advair.
• My lungs sound fine, so the coughing is probably due to post-nasal nastiness.
• The mean old nurse gave me four vaccinations - tetanus/diptheria, pneumococcal, polio, and influenza Type B. They didn't hurt at all. I was surprised.
• Cholera is making a comeback I hear. Want to hear my solution? Don't shit where you drink and don't drink where others shit.
• I lost ten pounds in 12 days. Mainly from steroid dosage drop, but I'm sure the spinach salads contributed somewhat.
• Anybody want a dog? She like to poop and pee on concrete floors, which happen to be the same floors of my office area. Doesn't matter how many times she's been out, she loves to come down to the basement and poop/pee whenever she can. We try to keep her out, but sometimes she is able to slip down here.
• Sure I'm getting healthier, but what the fuck am I supposed to do for my "new normal?"

Dammit, Janet!

Good afternoon - 12/8/08

Bojangles? I shot him dead fi' year ago. Ain't no Bojangle nuthin now 'less you consider the clankin' a' his bones. Heh. He Bone-jangle now.

• You're still a bunch of fecal matter tossing primates to me.
• Today is my second birthday, my bone marrow birthday. I am two, at least my immune system is. Consider me reborn.
• Ask me about my fried pickles.
• Zombies get very mad when you kick them in the nuts.
• Bill O'Reilly is still flaming the fires of the Holiday Culture War! Instead of being "Christmas-like" by spreading a message of cheer and positivity and accepting ALL messages, he's harassing those who wish to speak freely. So in turn, I feel the need to harass him.
• To celebrate my BM day (not bowel movement - that's everyday), I've reposted my Neoplastic Residue blog here
• The sitter was here all day so I was able to get some work done. I updated my portfolio, got the oil changed in the car, and several loads of laundry have been washed, dried, and folded.
• Last night I came home from performance, exhausted, and collapsed on my chair. I was pretty excited about catching the 4th quarter of the Pittsburgh-Dallas game. Then I fell asleep.
• Some vaccines have MSG. Does that mean I want another after an hour or so? (I admit, I stole the joke from "Waldorf".)

And Bonejangles, he did dance. Bonejangles he did dance on your grave at night. And Bonejangles, he did die. For no other reason there were for him to live this lie of life. He did die.

Guten Morgen, 12/3/08

Insert somewhat clever blog-related prattle here. . .

• I need 4 days of uninterrupted rest.
• Crucible went well last night. . . sort of.
• I am exhausted. I need to learn to say no.
• I was lured home early with the promise of sex and all I got was a disgruntled snore.
• I wanted to rest a bit today, but since the sitter is coming, I have a list of tasks to try to complete before 2PM.
• Blogging was not one of them.
• I have written a lot of "I's" today.
• I'm certainly becoming more firm in my "secular humanist" way of seeing things, except that I loathe labels and boxes. Which would explain why my life is such a cluttered mess of eclectic junk.
• I think I have an ear infection. Most likely because I just claimed that I rarely, if ever, get them. Maybe there IS such a thing a Karma.
  
• I need 4 days of uninterrupted rest.

And insert closing tag that loops back around to the semi-witty comment from above. have i mentioned I need some rest?

I know I could search Google, but

Instead of sifting through the info, I thought I could ask here. . .

I'm looking for general information on flight training. Not commercial jets, but smaller planes and aircraft. Are there any particular requirements before taking lessons? How much do they, on average, cost? Does it matter about health history? Things like that.

I will probably call a flight school around here, but it's hard to talk on the phone with the kids crying or getting into things they shouldn't. Thanks.

My (worthless) endorsement for tomorrow.

Normally I would keep my vote quiet, as it is secret ballot and my vote is MY vote, not for others. This year, I said screw it. This is for the local, state, and national elections.

In Vineland, there are three ballot questions.

One. . . Voters to approve state bonds payable from state appropriations.

Right now voters do not need to vote on whether or not the city can float a bond. This question would require the city to hold a public vote when they want to float a bond.

My vote: YES.

Two. . . Provides that method of selection and appointment of certain municipal court judges be set by statute rather than by the Constitution.

My vote: NO.

Three. . . Shall the city of Vineland construct a dual fuel simple cycle generating unit at down station and/or appropriate alternate site within the city of Vineland and integrate such facilities into the city's electric generation system for the public and private uses of this municipality and its inhabitants?

This was tricky. It doesn't state what the dual fuel simple cycle generating unit would burn. The main plant in Vineland burns coal, which is oh so friendly. I don't mind that too much, but I would like to see them instead incorporate alternative fueling options into the existing site, perhaps buy a farm that is currently not producing (there are quite a few) and build an array of windmills, or an array of solar collectors, or perhaps a combination of both. The VMEU recently received $8b and are looking for an additional amount of money, paid by the taxpayers, for this dual-fuel cycle generator. So, without all of the information required and knowing that "greener" technologies aren't in the picture (the financial director of the VMEU stated publicly that alternative energies are too costly and that we don't even know if there is really an energy crisis or global warming. I say fart on him. Why not invest in new energies anyway? They pollute a lot less than fossil fuels, and if you've ever been to New Jersey, you might notice the air and water quality isn't exactly. . . clean.

My vote: NO.

Local -- members of the Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Democrats have held a majority for many many years. While three Republicans being voted in would certainly be a blow to the perceived status quo, it wouldn't change the majority.

The candidates are James R. Sauro (R), Thomas L. Sheppard (R), James R. Swift (R), Jane Jannarone (D), James A. Dunkins (D), William F. Whelan (D), and Robert W. McQuade (Crime Free County)

My votes: McQuade (Crime Free County), James A. Dunkins (D), and Thomas L. Sheppard (R)

Yes I split my vote, but I am allowed. I have no master but me.

Sheriff

I really don't give a shit who wins this for Cumberland County.

Those running: Michael F. Barruzza (R), Robert A. Austino (D), and Edward C. Webster (no party affiliation)

Normally, my knee jerk reaction would be to vote for Webster. I'm not. I'm voting Republican on this one. Michael F. Barruzza gets my vote.

Surrogate

I'm not even sure what the surrogate does. Carries the baby for a willing couple that can't conceive/carry? I don't know, so I'm not even going to vote.

It's Marchand (R) vs. Rainear (D)

Maybe I'll just flip a coin. or write in something.

House of Representatives, 2nd District NJ

Frank Lobiondo, incumbent, (R)
David Kurkowski (D)
Gary Stein (Rock the Boat)
Peter F. Boyce (Constitution)
Jason Grover (Green Party)
Constantine Rozzo (Socialist Party USA)

Lobiondo is the incumbent, and I think he sucks. I don't like him, his policies, or his smug, sallow features. I know, not a real reason to vote or not vote for someone. I am sure he is a nice person outside of the political arena, which is yet again, not a reason to vote or not vote for someone. He was against the bailout, so he has that in his favor. Actually, he's not a horrible congressman, but he has been there for a fairly long time and I feel that all incumbents need to be flushed in favor for new blood and new ideas. He did, however, in 1994, sign a pledge to stup running for Congress by 2006.

I don't think we need another Democratic Congressman in the House right now, either. Kurkowski doesn't light any fires. He just seems like another Democrat running for office, which does not thrill me. Again, this is all based upon my opinion.

Gary Stein of the Rock the Boat party. . . Never heard of him or what he's about. I did read this. . . http://www.votesmart.org/npat.php?can_id=108022#11301 so I'm a little better informed. Not bad on a lot of the things, though. . .

Peter F. Boyce of the Constitution Party. . . http://www.votesmart.org/npat.php?can_id=108019 Seems to be the right wing of the neoconservative party. . . Um. . . No.

Constantine Rozzo, Socialist Party USA. I've voted for him in the past. Not this year. http://www.votesmart.org/npat.php?can_id=43376 I actually DON'T agree with what he'd increase, so I don't know why I ever voted for him in the first place. Maybe the crazy mustache.

Jason M. Grover, Green Party. I like him. I like him personally and politically. I think he's down to earth enough that he would be a damn fine representative. http://www.newmenu.org/jasongrover.

My Vote: Jason Grover

US Senate

Dick Zimmer (R)
Frank Lautenberg (D)
Daryl Brooks (Poor People's Campaign)
Sara Lobman (Socialist Workers Party)
Jeffrey Boss (Boss for Senate)
J.M. Carter (God We Trust)
Jason Scheurer (Libertarian)

My Vote: Jason Scheurer (Libertarian)\

US President

John McCain, (R)
Barack Obama (D)
Ralph Nader (I)
Roger Calero (Socialist Workers Party)
Jeffrey Boss (Vote Here)
Brian Moore (Socialist Party USA)
Gloria LaRiva (Socialism and Liberation)
Bob Barr (Libertarian)
Cynthia McKinney (Green Party)
Chuck Baldwin (Constitution Party)

My Vote: Barack Obama (D)

I actually decided this carefully. I did not want McCain in the office, nor Palin as VP. But this isn't a vote against McCain. It is a vote for Obama. He may end up being the worst president in history, but he'd have to work very hard at that (see: George W. Bush, Andrew Jackson, others). He has great charisma, he is a wonderful speaker, and a very smart man. he may end up corrupted by the systm he is trying to change, but then again, he may actually be able to fix some of the problems Mr. Bush did in the past two terms. I believe that he can restore the US once again domestically and internationally, and actually protect the Constitution of the United States.

That's my two cents.

THIS one is for flyinglobster

Forgot this one. . .

One is for flyinglobster, one is for mcpierce

Sometimes you need a good laugh, and I received a FWD today that had me in tears. I have copied some of my favorites. . .

difficult

One of the hardest parts about today was telling my son that his pop-pop was dead. Broke my heart.

more on dad

probable cause of death was heart attack because of position of body.

Again, I ask a question to the void. . .

Would it not be better to "bail" out homeowners instead of the banks? Since Washington is going to use taxes for it anyway, why not payoff some or all mortgages (of primary residences) - pay them to the banks on behalf of the homeowners. The banks get their money, the homeowners don't have the monthly mortgage payment sucking all of their income, the government shows how powerful yet "benign" it really is. Everybody wins - except renters, those with no mortgage, the homeless, and taxpayers. The extra money could then be thrown back into the system, reigniting the economy. It's using socialism to spur capitalism. One big Evil Socialist moment followed by months, if not years, of Good free market mania with big ticket items being bought, rising consumer confidence, and more job creation (with the possibility of income stimulus as well). The government just takes care of the big issue and then people can spend again, banks will loan again, jobs will be created by the money thrown back into the economy, and CEO's still get their luxurious salaries and bonuses at the end of the year.

It's better than another economic stimulus package borrowed from another country, especially an "Evil" one. Our Evil is waaaaay better than their Evil.

I don't think tax breaks for companies or corporate bailouts will work. The tax breaks, as we've witnessed over the past six or so years, did nothing to stimulate the economy. Corporate bailouts simply send the wrong message and just bail out the banks while leaving the citizenry still in peril.

Not perfect, but I'd like to think it would work well for my personal economic crisis.

Without using "douche", tell me. . .

Okay, I've noticed a very strong libertarian streak on Multiply, which I respect, as I have a healthy libertarian streak as well (though not as much as most), and I was wondering if anyone could actually tell me what in the Hell Bob Barr stands for as the Libertarian candidate. Don't use douche, douchebag, or Cavalier d'douche Imperiale as I already know those parts.

While I've heard and read that I shouldn't vote for a major party candidate ("Republican" or "Democratic" - both are travesties on the usage of the words) and very often I have not, why should I vote for Bob Barr?

Speechifyin'

Sarah Palin was an electrifying speaker, really?

Really?

I don't know. Seems like bullshit and shenanigans to me.

olympics

Why does the Bahrainian sprinter look like a sperm?

More about Grover

http://www.myspace.com/grover4congress

Ten Key Values of the Green Party
Current mood: awake

1. GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY
Every human being deserves a say in the decisions that affect their lives and not be subject to the will of another. Therefore, we will work to increase public participation at every level of government and to ensure that our public representatives are fully accountable to the people who elect them. We will also work to create new types of political organizations which expand the process of participatory democracy by directly including citizens in the decision-making process.

2. SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
All persons should have the rights and opportunity to benefit equally from the resources afforded us by society and the environment. We must consciously confront in ourselves, our organizations, and society at large, barriers such as racism and class oppression, sexism and homophobia, ageism and disability, which act to deny fair treatment and equal justice under the law.

3. ECOLOGICAL WISDOM
Human societies must operate with the understanding that we are part of nature, not separate from nature. We must maintain an ecological balance and live within the ecological and resource limits of our communities and our planet. We support a sustainable society which utilizes resources in such a way that future generations will benefit and not suffer from the practices of our generation. To this end we must practice agriculture which replenishes the soil; move to an energy efficient economy; and live in ways that respect the integrity of natural systems.

4. NON-VIOLENCE
It is essential that we develop effective alternatives to society's current patterns of violence. We will work to demilitarize, and eliminate weapons of mass destruction, without being naive about the intentions of other governments. We recognize the need for self-defense and the defense of others who are in helpless situations. We promote non-violent methods to oppose practices and policies with which we disagree, and will guide our actions toward lasting personal, community and global peace.

5. DECENTRALIZATION
Centralization of wealth and power contributes to social and economic injustice, environmental destruction, and militarization. Therefore, we support a restructuring of social, political and economic institutions away from a system which is controlled by and mostly benefits the powerful few, to a democratic, less bureaucratic system. Decision-making should, as much as possible, remain at the individual and local level, while assuring that civil rights are protected for all citizens.

6. COMMUNITY-BASED ECONOMICS AND ECONOMIC JUSTICE
We recognize it is essential to create a vibrant and sustainable economic system, one that can create jobs and provide a decent standard of living for all people while maintaining a healthy ecological balance. A successful economic system will offer meaningful work with dignity, while paying a "living wage" which reflects the real value of a person's work.

Local communities must look to economic development that assures protection of the environment and workers' rights; broad citizen participation in planning; and enhancement of our "quality of life." We support independently owned and operated companies which are socially responsible, as well as co-operatives and public enterprises that distribute resources and control to more people through democratic participation.

7. FEMINISM AND GENDER EQUITY
We have inherited a social system based on male domination of politics and economics. We call for the replacement of the cultural ethics of domination and control with more cooperative ways of interacting that respect differences of opinion and gender. Human values such as equity between the sexes, interpersonal responsibility, and honesty must be developed with moral conscience. We should remember that the process that determines our decisions and actions is just as important as achieving the outcome we want.

8. RESPECT FOR DIVERSITY
We believe it is important to value cultural, ethnic, racial, sexual, religious and spiritual diversity, and to promote the development of respectful relationships across these lines.

We believe that the many diverse elements of society should be reflected in our organizations and decision-making bodies, and we support the leadership of people who have been traditionally closed out of leadership roles. We acknowledge and encourage respect for other life forms than our own and the preservation of biodiversity.

9. PERSONAL AND GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY
We encourage individuals to act to improve their personal well-being and, at the same time, to enhance ecological balance and social harmony. We seek to join with people and organizations around the world to foster peace, economic justice, and the health of the planet.

10. FUTURE FOCUS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Our actions and policies should be motivated by long-term goals. We seek to protect valuable natural resources, safely disposing of or "unmaking" all waste we create, while developing a sustainable economics that does not depend on continual expansion for survival. We must counterbalance the drive for short-term profits by assuring that economic development, new technologies, and fiscal policies are responsible to future generations who will inherit the results of our actions.

Ten Key Values from other state and local Greens.
There is no authoritative version of the Ten Key Values of the Greens. The Ten Key Values are guiding principles that are adapted and defined to fit each state and local chapter.

Jason Grover

I'm interested in finding more about him. The generalities of the Green I agree with generally, but I need more specifics. People talk about having a plan to fix this or that without specifics are usually full of shit, like most of the crackheads currently in office. It would be nice to see something different, so I'm posting links to Grover everywhere so people can contact him and educate themselves about something different.

He's running for Congress in my district in NJ, so out-of-staters can just ignore this, I guess.

I'll be following and reporting on Grover, methinks.

Wordpress question

I was updating my Wordpress site today and ran into a problem. Created a couple of pages, no problem. I put two pages as subpages and suddenly none of my categories or links work. I did a quick search but haven't found any answers yet.

I spent several hours posting my published stuff on the site as a sort of writing portfolio and now it seems I have to redo a lot of the categorization. The files are all still there, the posts are on the front page, I can edit the posts and pages, but if I click on a link to a page or category, I get the stupid 404 I created.

Any suggestions?

QOD

"It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change."

Charles Darwin (1809–1882)
English naturalist and author

question because I'm feeling pensive

If someone refers to someone as "the colored girl", is the person being racist? Is the person a racist intentionally or is the behavior ingrained that it's just comes out naturally? Is the ingrained behavior inherently racist? If they are able to change their wording, are they still racist (if they were in the first place)? If they have these issues of race flying through their minds when confronting an issue, does that make them evil or bad? Does it then make you evil or bad if you love that person (wife, mother, father, husband, boyfriend, cousin, brother, sister, grandfather, etc?)

I overheard that statement (about the "colored girl") at church last Sunday, and I don't think it was meant with any ill-intent, but the only way this person knew how to describe the girl in question. But it brought up all sorts of questions I asked to myself, which is why I'm posting it here.

I guess the question is "where does racism begin and end?"

George Carlin

I still find him pretty damn funny.

meh

I don't really believe in fate or mystical roadsigns, but I feel like I'm being nudged by events to do something for cancer prevention or cures or advocacy, or even advocacy in general for patients.

Dad's Health - More

I doubt I'll update regularly about him, but every once in a while I'll post something.

Yesterday he had a port put in, a biopsy, and a feeding tube inserted into his stomach. Right now he's uncomfortably resting with the help of morphine, though I doubt it's enough. I'm lucky I didn't have surgery like that.

When the doctor says words like invasive, infiltrative, or metastatic, it's rarely a good thing. "Hey, guess what! You've got metastatic esophogeal cancer! Ain't life grand? Now shut up and empty your feeding tube." They still aren't sure if surgery is the right option on the tumor in his neck, but they are pretty sure about radiation and chemotherapy. Most likely an aggressive treatment of chemo and radiation in the same day, every day (or breaks from chemo). He'll be transported from the VA daily for treatment to Philadelphia. I don't know which hospital, but my guess lies with either UPENN or Jefferson. I guess there is a special arrangement with the VA about insurance.

Since my dad retired early, he hasn't had "insurance". He signed up for a health "insurance" saving plan or discount plan, but it didn't cover CT Scans or anything important. He isn't eligible for Medicare until November. However, that could change. Since he was in the army (late sixties), he was eligible for VA care. So that's where he is.

He is nervous, and his main concern is to be able to take his (oldest) grandson fishing this summer.

Ascendancy

Just going through my geneology. . . I found a folder of geneology stuff that was sent to me by a distant relative about twelve years ago.

So I am Brett M, son of Frank R (Joan), son of Russell (Rose), son of Isaac Saunders (Mary Francis), son of James (Mary), son of Frederick (Phebe), son of Henirich Faber (Elizabeth), who was born in Germany (Pfalz-Rhineland) in 1721 and entered Philadelphia in 1747. Two of his sons - one being Frederick - fought in the Revolutionary War and are listed in the Pension Rolls.

That is all.

Need something interesting

In my quiet time, my me time, I'm looking for something that might make me laugh or just might be interesting other than the crap I already do. I'm talking in terms of the old interwebs, of course.

I already read erfworld and OOTS and queenvic and check out Warren Ellis stuff every once in a while. . . Just looking for something new.

liquid hydrocodone

I've been sick for a week now, but the really bad part of it didn't happen until a few days ago. Sure, the hacking cough and constant congestion is one thing, but to add a fever and Liqui-Poo? C'est magnifique! I called my doctor - my wife made me because I'm a stubborn dipshit - and I was prescribed liquid hydrocodone and Avelox. Annoying fuzzy head from being sick + dizziness from Avelox + falling down stuporificness of Hydrocodone = not moving from couch all night.

Right now I'm still in a haze of sickness, and the wracking cough is causing all of my intracostal muscles to moan with pain, but I was able to check email and do a quick post in between the sweet heaven of drugs.

Today's resolutions

Resolution

I will stop referring to "Ten Years Ago" with nostalgia, especially when I'm actually thinking of events that happened twenty years ago.


Resolution

I will no longer create Dutch Ovens to torture my wife with, considering the horrible gas I've been having.


Resolution

I promise to no longer use sarcasm on my newborns, as they don't understand it yet anyway.


Resolution

I will only speak of things I know nothing about, much like political pundits.


Resolution

I will maintain the status quo, even if I don't know what the hell the status quo is or means.


Resolution

I will stop referring to Mike as the third member of the Lynryd Skynrd Revival Chorus.

Resolution

I will stop using the web/blogging as a way to keep me from doing things that might be useful.

After this post, that is.

I swear.

might be news

I'm performing Damn the Cancer in April as well as holding auditions for Macbeth.

I know, who cares.

But wait, I can use my macbeth cast to film scenes for that damn webisode thing I've been yapping about for months or years. I will have readily available costumes, weapons, and 'actors'.

I have the swords already, well - three of them, as well as some costume pieces that will need to be resized, from the initial round of funding I received from my artistic, insightful, and intelligent friends.

you know you'd like to be included in THAT group. You know it and I know it, so just PM me.

cute baby

Right, they're really cute when they projectile vomit across your bed and onto your carpet.

Michael has been having a lot of digestive problems, and the docs put him on soy. In a matter of hours, he was projectiling every bottle up, squirting liqui-poo, and generally cranky all night long. I blame my wife for calling the doc about his spitting - Johnathan was the same way. Aside from the spitup soaking he would give himself, he was actually sleeping from 11 to 7. Soy - every two hours screaming his head off.

And the soy makes him have a distinct Asian smell.

Suddenly, an idea hits

The last post led me to talking it out with my wife.

She's a perv, too.

She thought it must be some awful discharge.

I thought it would be cool/tragic to name a band Pussy Sputum. Pronounced puss-ee. Problem is, they'd never be able to promote or publicize themselves in public.

Poor pussy players.

The importance of context.

Pussy.

What did I just say/write?

Pussy.

As in Pussy sputum.

What what what?

As in you should go to a doctor because you definately have the flu if you have pussy sputum.

Puss-y. Puss-y. Get your damn minds out of the gutter!

Christ. You internet people ARE all pervs.

A fungus among us.

Went to see my Doc today - local primary care doc. Good guy, actually went to grade through high school with him. Anyway, I was there to let him see my rash, which has gotten really nasty, burning, and itchy. I told him what was up, what my Transplant docs said, and he took a look and thinks it's fungal. Explains why steroids aren't working, and makes sense since I am not on any anti-fungal meds right now (see entry where I complain about Diflucan and my insurance covering 7 days only). I also regained use of my smeller today (after many many moons) and I noticed a cigarette odor that permeates the interior of my car, as well as a lot of other odors.

When I came home, my mother was there helping Steph out with the twins. She was also cooking something, which I thought smelled atrociously bad, Turns out that a mix of my smeller working and a fungal rash under my arms equals something not so good for my olfactus. Damn I stink.

Still having trouble getting my Prograf and Acyclovir. This time, however, it is my doc's office dragging the feet, leaving me without the meds they say I can't not have. Leads me to trust docs even less.

The boys have been cranky today. One cranky baby is one thing, but in stereo is a completely frustrating exercise in. . . well, dammit, I just don't know but it is frustrating. Just go to sleep. SLEEP!

I have an interview, excuse me, a PHONE interview for a job in PA, about an hour commute, but I'd be making some decent money, especially considering my current wage (disability plus whatever little bits and pieces I can scrape together with design - it doesn't pay the mortgage, that's for sure). He called today while I was tending to a crybaby, so I asked if I could call him back in 15. Instead, he offered to call back at 4. He never did. I'm sure he got busy. I'm kind of excited, though, my third interview in over one hundred applications. They didn't balk at my salary req's.

La-dee-da. I have some work to do, but I can't do it in fifteen minute spurts, it just doesn't work that way, and considering the boys today, fifteen minutes of time would be generous. Right now we are restraining ourselves, letting them cry for fifteen minutes before going in to see what's up. We've forgotten the way. I think I'll record some of this later and post it on a playlist for you all. So we're watching a Tivo'd Supernatural and waiting. . .

Michael J. Fauver has a large schlong. Seriously. It causes him to pee through his diaper at least once a day. The diapers are small because he was a preemie, but the problem is that his penis is too large and doesn't quite fit right in the diaper. A predicament now, but I'm sure he'll think a Godsend late in life.

Wait. . . I think it stopped.

Damn, no such luck.

I can't really concentrate on Supernatural with all this noise. Ha! I win, Steph went in first!

Damn, she's calling me. There are no winners with twins.

hell, why not

http://images.cafepress.com/product/227681096v6_240x240_Front.jpg

I just don't know who to vote for. . .

Taking what I've heard from reports and witness accounts of the unwashed masses, you can only vote for someone if you tie in to that candidate's demographic.

If you're black you have to vote for Obama.

If you're a woman, you have to vote for Hillary.

If you're a zombie, you vote for McCain

. . . a leprechaun (or goblinoid), Kucinich

. . . a ghoul/wraith/other undead flesheater, Giuliani

. . . a vampire, Romney

. . . a person looking to "Cross Over", Edwards

I just don't know where I fit in. . . I used to cross-dress occasionally, so do I vote for Hillary or Giuliani? I don't know. I would like to sspeak with the dead, so do I vote for Edwards, who had his own television show on the subject, or any number of undead republican candidates? The whole process confuses and baffles. I would like to just vote my conscience and vote on the issues, but I don't think that's allowable by law anymore. You not only have to affiliate with a party (generally, I like parties, especially with booze), but now you must subcategorize yourself. . . I dun lahk it.

so.very.tired

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz*huh?Wha-feedthebabieschangethebabiesgosleepbabiesgosleepnow *Zzzzzz

It's free as a download!

My anthology of short comedies based on my experiences with cancer is now a free download for any who would like to read my chemo-crazed words. Please download it, read it, and write a little review for me (on Lulu) - I'd appreciate the feedback. I'm not beyond begging. Actually, you may have already read them in my journal entries. Still, it's free, and I'm granting permission for performance with no royalties, just credit and a notification to me.

Go here - lulu.com

My favorite part of Pinocchio. . . sadly, it wasn't in the Disney version

The story of Pinocchio and the Talking Cricket, in which one sees that bad children do not like to be corrected by those who know more than they do

Very little time did it take to get poor old Geppetto to prison. In the meantime that rascal, Pinocchio, free now from the clutches of the Carabineer, was running wildly across fields and meadows, taking one short cut after another toward home. In his wild flight, he leaped over brambles and bushes, and across brooks and ponds, as if he were a goat or a hare chased by hounds.

On reaching home, he found the house door half open. He slipped into the room, locked the door, and threw himself on the floor, happy at his escape.

But his happiness lasted only a short time, for just then he heard someone saying:

"Cri-cri-cri!"

"Who is calling me?" asked Pinocchio, greatly frightened.

"I am!"

Pinocchio turned and saw a large cricket crawling slowly up the wall.

"Tell me, Cricket, who are you?"

"I am the Talking Cricket and I have been living in this room for more than one hundred years."

"Today, however, this room is mine," said the Marionette, "and if you wish to do me a favor, get out now, and don't turn around even once."

"I refuse to leave this spot," answered the Cricket, "until I have told you a great truth."

"Tell it, then, and hurry."

"Woe to boys who refuse to obey their parents and run away from home! They will never be happy in this world, and when they are older they will be very sorry for it."

We have hundreds more books for your enjoyment. Read them all!

"Sing on, Cricket mine, as you please. What I know is, that tomorrow, at dawn, I leave this place forever. If I stay here the same thing will happen to me which happens to all other boys and girls. They are sent to school, and whether they want to or not, they must study. As for me, let me tell you, I hate to study! It's much more fun, I think, to chase after butterflies, climb trees, and steal birds' nests." "Poor little silly! Don't you know that if you go on like that, you will grow into a perfect donkey and that you'll be the laughingstock of everyone?" "Keep still, you ugly Cricket!" cried Pinocchio. But the Cricket, who was a wise old philosopher, instead of being offended at Pinocchio's impudence, continued in the same tone: "If you do not like going to school, why don't you at least learn a trade, so that you can earn an honest living?" "Shall I tell you something?" asked Pinocchio, who was beginning to lose patience. "Of all the trades in the world, there is only one that really suits me." "And what can that be?" "That of eating, drinking, sleeping, playing, and wandering around from morning till night." "Let me tell you, for your own good, Pinocchio," said the Talking Cricket in his calm voice, "that those who follow that trade always nd up in the hospital or in prison."

"Careful, ugly Cricket! If you make me angry, you'll be sorry!"

"Poor Pinocchio, I am sorry for you."

"Why?"

"Because you are a Marionette and, what is much worse, you have a wooden head."

At these last words, Pinocchio jumped up in a fury, took a hammer from the bench, and threw it with all his strength at the Talking Cricket.

Perhaps he did not think he would strike it. But, sad to relate, my dear children, he did hit the Cricket, straight on its head.

With a last weak "cri-cri-cri" the poor Cricket fell from the wall, dead!

Allow me to introduce Michael and Morgan

(Multipliers - sorry for the double post)
Michael James Fauver and Morgan Russell Fauver were born at 4:58 and 4:59 PM respectively on January 13th, 2008. Michael weighed in at 5 lbs 8 oz. and Morgan was 5 lbs 12 oz. These pictures were taken from 5:03 PM on. . .

We're so happy!

Steph is even happier that they're out and not kicking her anymore.

Michael cried from the moment he was out and every moment forward. Morgan opened his eyes right away when I held him and even seemed to smile (though I know that's not really the case). They will be in special Care until tomorrow and we'll also find out tomorrow when they will be able to come home.

It started at 4 this morning, when she had some spotting. She told her doc at the appointment (10 AM), and he asked why she didn't call. She explained that the nurses and midwives always told her that as long as it wasn't a lot of blood, it was no worry, so she didn't worry. The doc said, "Well, I don't agree, go to the hospital, we're taking them today." Fast forward seven hours later, and more boys!

- Brett

(photos posted on my Multiply page - http://brettfauver.multiply.com - Just Minutes Old!

Thought for my morning

I was making a cuppa joe a few minutes ago and had a sudden thought - out of the 6 and a half years Steph and I have been married, 2007 was the only year I have been cancer-free. We married in July 2001 and by December I had developed the big-ass tumor in the middle of my chest (which I ignored for another four months). While 07 was still full of annoyances and about 50 doctor appointments and two hospital stays, I was without Hodgkin's. A cause for celebration, I believe.