PET Scan: Lymph Nodes didn’t even show any cancer at all -- it's gone. That’s excellent news, of course. That's right: there is no trace of any cancer in the Lymph nodes. The tumour itself still has some activity, though. The doctor can’t be 100% sure it’s still cancerous due to residual radiation and scar tissue, though he's pretty certain it still is cancerous because he has no reason to believe otherwise.
The CT (cat) scan was still difficult to interpret due to lingering radiation. Different people dissipate radiation at different rates. There is still some lung collapse (hence his continued difficulty in breathing). The tumour is not well defined and the shadow is less solid. It is still possible that live cells could escape and go elsewhere, so we must be vigilant and he must be tested regularly.
Despite all of this, Dad has shown significant improvement and he is out of any immediate danger. However new spots of cancer are always bad because that means it’s spreading and we have to hope and pray that is never the case. We will retest in three months --- first week of November -- and see what’s happened then.
There will be no surgery, period. The doctor is confident no reputable doctor will perform any operation on Dad. With his lung partially collapsed, and the surgical risks he has due to his other conditions, the risks far outweigh any possible minor benefit and Dad’s chance of surviving the operation is very low.
His continued coughing is caused by radiation damage. It will eventually lessen and may even disappear, but it may just be a permanent, chronic cough. His tiredness is a combination of age and effects from his diminished lung capacity. There will be absolutely no radiation injections or even further radiation treatments at this time.
So, all in all, this was a very good day at the doctor. This was also significant for me, because this is the first time I've actually met the attending physician and talked to him in person. Dad's done his best to keep me out of the loop and given me his "sanitized" report so I don't worry -- apparently he thinks that will stop the worry process. So while I've been to the doctor's office with him before (see previous posts), it's been with the many other doctors involved in the process and not The Doctor.
It was a draining day, but generally a good day for Dad.
PS: No new news on Scooter. Several severe issues remain and spoke to the vet and she said to give it another week and bring Scooter in next week. If there is any noticeable change, of course, she said to rush her over. Scooter is not getting worse but she's not getting better either. I think a big problem is she isn't drinking enough.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
1996 Florida Panthers Reunion Game
Almost eleven years after going to the Stanley Cup finals, the 1996 Panthers came together Saturday at the BankAtlantic Center for a reunion game against former Panther alumni plus some random people to fill out the opponent squad. A number of announced players didn’t show (Trevor Kidd, Chris Wells) and no explanation was provided. Local Channel 7 sportscaster, Mike DiPasquale filled in for Kidd and got pasted four times.
Panthers officials expected around 6 to 8 thousand people, and as a result only opened the lower bowl. It unexpectedly filled up to capacity and they ended up opening the club level to accommodate everyone. The tickets were free to season-ticket holders and $5 to everyone else — all for charity, so no complaints. The final attendance (and this was actual entries, not their usual counting method) was 11817. There were several autograph booths and the lines were overflowing with nearly a thousand people in them. There was no way to get everyone though the lines.
The final score was a misleading 9 to 5. The 1996 Panthers defeating the Florida Alumni. The first period was played mostly for real with only a Ian Vanbiesbrouck penalty shot on his dad being contrived. Papa left a wide left hole for his son, but his son fanned it, missing that shot. The only notable face-off moment was when Scott Skrudland faced-off against his dad.
As expected, every goal by the ’96 team was greeted with a shower of toy rats with the constant squeaking of the rats filling the arena. Although many announcements were made on the PA, due to some sort of echo problem nobody could actually understand any of them. Happily the fans knew what was going on, if maybe being ignorant who some of the “alumni” were. The introductions were greeted by heartfelt applause, the 1996 team getting near-universal thunderous applause to one long standing ovation.
The players were clearing having fun. Most, like Garpenlov, skated around with a big shit-eating grin on his face the entire time. Many played without helmets. There was one on and only one check the entire game when Eddie J plastered Denis Potvin into the boards and Potvin looked genuinely surprised and the crowd loved it. The game was ably called by old announcers Chris Moore and Jeff Rimer. The ice was painted to 1996 specifications down the small, round creases.
The game used running time, which means the clock started at 20 minutes and ran through to 0 without stopping. It was followed by an 8 minute intermission. The second intermission was cancelled after only 30 seconds, and the third period began with just 9 minutes on the clock with no explanation. The first period was played mostly for real. The second period was a bit less so with more humour injected. The third period had nothing to do with hockey.
Also in the game a fake penalty (a clear set-up) had Laus dropping the gloves against Worrell. There was a hug and a major penalty for dancing.
Goals for 1996 Panthers in order:
1. Barnes, Mellanby, Lindsay
2. Jovanovski, Fitzgerald
3. Mellanby, Smith
4. Lindsay Skrudland
5. Fitzgerald
6. Smith, Garpenlov
7. Sheppard, Hough, Barnes
8. Mellanby
9. Hough, Murphy
For the alumni team Pitlick assisted Belanger on a goal. Beezer was relieved by Fitzpatrick near the back of the second period.
Some quotes from the guys (as provided in a Panthers media release):
“Awesome,” said defenceman Geoff Smith, a member of the ’96 team. “What a turnout. There were always good fans down here. We were signing autographs and people were lined up, excited and talking about how they had waited for this moment for a long time.”
Doug MacLean, coach of the ’96 team, said of the turnout; “Guys were sitting on the bench and looking up in the stands and they couldn’t believe the turnout. For a Saturday afternoon at 3 pm? Incredible.” Asked the reason for the success of the ’96 team, he said, “It was heart. I haven’t seen anything like it in my 22 years of hockey.”
Scott Mellanby, who started the ‘Year of the Rat’ when he killed a rodent in the Panther dressing room, scored two goals Saturday and said: “I think this shows what a great relationship we had with the fans.”
Asked how he felt after playing the game, Mike Hough, an original Panther and member of the ’96 team, said; “I’m tired, but I got my first goal in nine years.”
Brian Skrudland, the Panthers’ captain from 1993-97, said the reunion game was “not only great for hockey, but great for South Florida. I think it helps to get people on board with the Florida Panthers.”
Panthers officials expected around 6 to 8 thousand people, and as a result only opened the lower bowl. It unexpectedly filled up to capacity and they ended up opening the club level to accommodate everyone. The tickets were free to season-ticket holders and $5 to everyone else — all for charity, so no complaints. The final attendance (and this was actual entries, not their usual counting method) was 11817. There were several autograph booths and the lines were overflowing with nearly a thousand people in them. There was no way to get everyone though the lines.
The final score was a misleading 9 to 5. The 1996 Panthers defeating the Florida Alumni. The first period was played mostly for real with only a Ian Vanbiesbrouck penalty shot on his dad being contrived. Papa left a wide left hole for his son, but his son fanned it, missing that shot. The only notable face-off moment was when Scott Skrudland faced-off against his dad.
As expected, every goal by the ’96 team was greeted with a shower of toy rats with the constant squeaking of the rats filling the arena. Although many announcements were made on the PA, due to some sort of echo problem nobody could actually understand any of them. Happily the fans knew what was going on, if maybe being ignorant who some of the “alumni” were. The introductions were greeted by heartfelt applause, the 1996 team getting near-universal thunderous applause to one long standing ovation.
The players were clearing having fun. Most, like Garpenlov, skated around with a big shit-eating grin on his face the entire time. Many played without helmets. There was one on and only one check the entire game when Eddie J plastered Denis Potvin into the boards and Potvin looked genuinely surprised and the crowd loved it. The game was ably called by old announcers Chris Moore and Jeff Rimer. The ice was painted to 1996 specifications down the small, round creases.
The game used running time, which means the clock started at 20 minutes and ran through to 0 without stopping. It was followed by an 8 minute intermission. The second intermission was cancelled after only 30 seconds, and the third period began with just 9 minutes on the clock with no explanation. The first period was played mostly for real. The second period was a bit less so with more humour injected. The third period had nothing to do with hockey.
Also in the game a fake penalty (a clear set-up) had Laus dropping the gloves against Worrell. There was a hug and a major penalty for dancing.
Goals for 1996 Panthers in order:
1. Barnes, Mellanby, Lindsay
2. Jovanovski, Fitzgerald
3. Mellanby, Smith
4. Lindsay Skrudland
5. Fitzgerald
6. Smith, Garpenlov
7. Sheppard, Hough, Barnes
8. Mellanby
9. Hough, Murphy
For the alumni team Pitlick assisted Belanger on a goal. Beezer was relieved by Fitzpatrick near the back of the second period.
Some quotes from the guys (as provided in a Panthers media release):
“Awesome,” said defenceman Geoff Smith, a member of the ’96 team. “What a turnout. There were always good fans down here. We were signing autographs and people were lined up, excited and talking about how they had waited for this moment for a long time.”
Doug MacLean, coach of the ’96 team, said of the turnout; “Guys were sitting on the bench and looking up in the stands and they couldn’t believe the turnout. For a Saturday afternoon at 3 pm? Incredible.” Asked the reason for the success of the ’96 team, he said, “It was heart. I haven’t seen anything like it in my 22 years of hockey.”
Scott Mellanby, who started the ‘Year of the Rat’ when he killed a rodent in the Panther dressing room, scored two goals Saturday and said: “I think this shows what a great relationship we had with the fans.”
Asked how he felt after playing the game, Mike Hough, an original Panther and member of the ’96 team, said; “I’m tired, but I got my first goal in nine years.”
Brian Skrudland, the Panthers’ captain from 1993-97, said the reunion game was “not only great for hockey, but great for South Florida. I think it helps to get people on board with the Florida Panthers.”
The Simpsons Review. Exceleellllent.
The movie will make you laugh pretty much from one end to the other — and through the credits too. Don’t leave early. I liked it but I did think it was just a two part episode thrown together on the big screen. All your favourites are there, though there are so many you will find most don’t speak for lack of time. Matt Groening has said that there will at least another hour of cut stuff on the DVD. Sure, it was a bit slow in the middle, but many movies are. I was hoping for a work of art, but what I got was one of the better Simpsons episodes ever made. And on reflection, that isn't half bad.
Spoilers aplenty so don’t read on if you care about that.
In a tribute to Austin powers we see Bart skate through town, naked as the day he was born. And we finally see the yellow veg-n-fruit as it were. Very anti-climactic, so to speak. And pricelessly funny. Almost as funny as Spider-Pig which sounds stupid but in reality makes you laugh in spite of yourself.
The big shocker is probably Marge actually swearing. A character di es but I won’t put that here.
There are sight gags all over the place. And I mean everywhere. Fox News crawls. Tributes to old episodes (electrocuting fish, jumping gorges, wrecked ambulances). You know you’re in for it from the opening credits when Ralph comes out and hums the 20th century fox fanfare. And later he comes out again.
There’s a story to the movie, but it’s utterly incidental for the most part. All they want to do is set up gag after gag. From President Schwartenegger to rush to get every single character in the film, including one of my favourites Fat Tony. The credit showed that even Kang was in it, but I missed his cameo. Green Day and Tom Hanks both have appearances as well.
And of course Maggie speaks her second word. Everyone saw the first episode where she said Daddy. Now she says another word which will be inherently obvious by the time she says it.
There’s some political stuff to. The President picks plan 3 at random, choosing to not even read them, saying “I was elected to lead, not read.” The head of the EPA is named Cargill. Cargill also happens to be the name of an international conglomerate of food, agricultural products as well as risk management products and services.
The family separates for awhile and it seems they are doomed to remain that way until they die (death being imminent). Happily, BTW, Bart does not say "cowabunga" at any point.
Enjoyed seeing it with the crowd: Evan, Erin, David, Kathy, William, and Timmy -- after breakfast naturally.
Spoilers aplenty so don’t read on if you care about that.
In a tribute to Austin powers we see Bart skate through town, naked as the day he was born. And we finally see the yellow veg-n-fruit as it were. Very anti-climactic, so to speak. And pricelessly funny. Almost as funny as Spider-Pig which sounds stupid but in reality makes you laugh in spite of yourself.
The big shocker is probably Marge actually swearing. A character di es but I won’t put that here.
There are sight gags all over the place. And I mean everywhere. Fox News crawls. Tributes to old episodes (electrocuting fish, jumping gorges, wrecked ambulances). You know you’re in for it from the opening credits when Ralph comes out and hums the 20th century fox fanfare. And later he comes out again.
There’s a story to the movie, but it’s utterly incidental for the most part. All they want to do is set up gag after gag. From President Schwartenegger to rush to get every single character in the film, including one of my favourites Fat Tony. The credit showed that even Kang was in it, but I missed his cameo. Green Day and Tom Hanks both have appearances as well.
And of course Maggie speaks her second word. Everyone saw the first episode where she said Daddy. Now she says another word which will be inherently obvious by the time she says it.
There’s some political stuff to. The President picks plan 3 at random, choosing to not even read them, saying “I was elected to lead, not read.” The head of the EPA is named Cargill. Cargill also happens to be the name of an international conglomerate of food, agricultural products as well as risk management products and services.
The family separates for awhile and it seems they are doomed to remain that way until they die (death being imminent). Happily, BTW, Bart does not say "cowabunga" at any point.
Enjoyed seeing it with the crowd: Evan, Erin, David, Kathy, William, and Timmy -- after breakfast naturally.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
PS2 Most-Played Console in June according to Nielsen
Excerpt: NEW YORK (AP) - More than 68 million people played video games on a console last month, spending much of it on Sony Corp.'s older PlayStation 2, according to Nielsen research.
Speaking of the format wars, Target Corp. confirmed yesterday that it will promote the rival Blu-ray format for high-definition DVDs this holiday season. They join Blockbuster in taking sides. Microsoft is in the HD-DVD camp. Yay.
Seven years after its launch, Sony's PS2 was still the most-played console, accounting for 42 percent of video game use during the month. Microsoft's original Xbox took second place with 17 percent, followed by the Xbox 360 with 8 percent. Nintendo's GameCube ranked fourth with 5.8 percent. The numbers suggest that older machines remain popular despite last November's high-profile debut of Nintendo Co.'s Wii which had 4 percent and Sony's PlayStation 3, 1.5 percent.
What does this suggest? PS2 continues to dominate the market. The X-box pair together total 25% and Microsoft's Xbox Unit Posts $1.9 Billion Loss which is good news indeed. Nintendo Game Cube is the loser here, as it will slowly fade away. Wii is a strong contender and the only reason it's not more popular is that you just can't find one. Sure, it's not hardcore but it IS fun which is what really matters. PS3 is stagnant, and I fault the lack of any games whatsoever. It's great because I use mine as a BluRay player, but that's not going to sell units.Speaking of the format wars, Target Corp. confirmed yesterday that it will promote the rival Blu-ray format for high-definition DVDs this holiday season. They join Blockbuster in taking sides. Microsoft is in the HD-DVD camp. Yay.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Flickr: Photos from darsys (round three)
Today I have posted a new set of 12 photos on my Flickr account. In an older post, I explained the project. My last post was about three weeks ago: I got in my last few photos as I had mentioned at the end of that post.
I also got some awesome videos that just won't fit on a DVD -- though a few will fit on Dual-Layer DVDs. Contact me for information about those. I suggest bringing your own external hard drive if you want those.
As I said in the previous posts, I encourage you to add any comments/notes to the photos if you remember something that I didn't, especially when it comes to identifying people. Also, you can buy prints of any photo on Flickr where there's an "Order Prints" button. This is not something I make money on nor approve of or object to, but if you want an actual printed copy it's the fastest and best way....
I will post the last few photos tomorrow. After that I'll take requests if you have any. (Such as "please don't post any more of yourself")
7-24-07: As promised, the last batch was posted today.
I also got some awesome videos that just won't fit on a DVD -- though a few will fit on Dual-Layer DVDs. Contact me for information about those. I suggest bringing your own external hard drive if you want those.
As I said in the previous posts, I encourage you to add any comments/notes to the photos if you remember something that I didn't, especially when it comes to identifying people. Also, you can buy prints of any photo on Flickr where there's an "Order Prints" button. This is not something I make money on nor approve of or object to, but if you want an actual printed copy it's the fastest and best way....
I will post the last few photos tomorrow. After that I'll take requests if you have any. (Such as "please don't post any more of yourself")
7-24-07: As promised, the last batch was posted today.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
I have a few spoiler-free comments. I'll warn you before I actually get to the spoilers.
The book came at quarter to seven last night and I read about 210 pages before I went to bed. I started on the rest a little after two this afternoon, whilst keeping Scooter company, and just finished the remaining 550 pages about half-past six. Wanting to avoid spoilers, I have indeed stayed offline most of the day Saturday until after completion time to avoid them. Too many people take perverse joy in ruining a book for no good reason.
The book is well written and if you go back and quickly read the first few pages of Potter#1 and compare them to Potter#7 you'll see how much Jo Rowling has grown as an author. She writes better and that comes with practice -- pages of it and she has those in spades. The characters continue to grow, believably so even as the final conclusion marches inexorably closer.
The book is darker -- much like Order of the Phoenix in that respect. There is some kissing in it, just a little more adult than the previous book. There is a little bit more swearing in it, too. Nothing major but just a little more. You know the characters are moving towards adulthood. They even drink a bit. Again, subtle changes but there.
We see who is made of what. And that is revealing. We also see that evil characters don't die and good ones do. That isn't a spoiler, but a generalization. It's just like real life -- and real life isn't always fair and there aren't always happy endings.
Now, on to what would be considered spoilers. HERE BE SPOILERS -- TURN BACK NOW.
First, and foremost, there are many deaths on both sides of the battle and not always whom you would expect. The first "shock" was the death of Hedwig, and I really felt no emotion at all. Harry seemed to get over it pretty quickly. I was a bit surprised there, but I guess Ms. Rowling wanted us to know nobody and nothing was safe. From there the bodies piled up: some with good reason and some utterly senseless.
We see the return of the evil Rita and of course Umbridge as well. But Rowling gets distracted and we never get closure on them or many of the other characters. Love them or hate them you wonder what their final disposition is. I also see where it would be easy to get bogged down and never make it to the end, so I'm not criticizing but observing.
Snape. Yes, the evil Snape. He is a bad person, make no mistake. However nobody is all bad -- or at least they didn't start that way. Snape was Dumbledore's man and Voldemort's man at the same time. I'm not sure how I felt about being cheated on having him turn out that way.
Make no mistake. Harry wins out in the end as everyone knew it must. I never entertained the idea she'd kill Harry. Though it was either Harry or Hagrid who got the "reprieve" Rowling kept mentioning. They both appeared to die and they both survived and we may never know who was destined for eternal death.
That Harry was a horcrux after a fashion should come as no surprise to anyone who was paying attention. That Neville turned out to be terribly important and play a key role should also come as no surprise. And if anyone wondered if Ron and Hermione end up together, well what does one expect to happen with a teen love?
I was certain we'd see the return of Dumbledore and I said as much. He returned, but not in the way I expected. He was too big of a character and too intertwined with the story to be left out of the ending. He also is proven to be less than perfect and considerably more human. This is a major point for moving Harry towards the final battle. Sirius, James, Lily, and the rest stayed dead as expected.
Draco was an enigma to the end. He had the chance early on to positively identify Harry. It was clear he knew it was Harry. There is no doubt, yet he hesitated and said he wasn't sure. He even did this for Ron and Hermione before positively identifying them. Harry returned the favour by saving Draco's life twice in the Battle of Hogwarts.
Everything was fine. And then Rowling wrote the Epilogue. If you just get a razor blade and remove those pages from your book you will be much better off. Well written and utterly unnecessary, trite, contrived, and displeasing. I do not wish the future spelled out for me, and would have much rather had it all left to the imagination. To me it was clearly written well after she finished the main part of the book.
Here are my predictions from the previous post tagged as whether I got them right or not.
The book came at quarter to seven last night and I read about 210 pages before I went to bed. I started on the rest a little after two this afternoon, whilst keeping Scooter company, and just finished the remaining 550 pages about half-past six. Wanting to avoid spoilers, I have indeed stayed offline most of the day Saturday until after completion time to avoid them. Too many people take perverse joy in ruining a book for no good reason.
The book is well written and if you go back and quickly read the first few pages of Potter#1 and compare them to Potter#7 you'll see how much Jo Rowling has grown as an author. She writes better and that comes with practice -- pages of it and she has those in spades. The characters continue to grow, believably so even as the final conclusion marches inexorably closer.
The book is darker -- much like Order of the Phoenix in that respect. There is some kissing in it, just a little more adult than the previous book. There is a little bit more swearing in it, too. Nothing major but just a little more. You know the characters are moving towards adulthood. They even drink a bit. Again, subtle changes but there.
We see who is made of what. And that is revealing. We also see that evil characters don't die and good ones do. That isn't a spoiler, but a generalization. It's just like real life -- and real life isn't always fair and there aren't always happy endings.
Now, on to what would be considered spoilers. HERE BE SPOILERS -- TURN BACK NOW.
First, and foremost, there are many deaths on both sides of the battle and not always whom you would expect. The first "shock" was the death of Hedwig, and I really felt no emotion at all. Harry seemed to get over it pretty quickly. I was a bit surprised there, but I guess Ms. Rowling wanted us to know nobody and nothing was safe. From there the bodies piled up: some with good reason and some utterly senseless.
We see the return of the evil Rita and of course Umbridge as well. But Rowling gets distracted and we never get closure on them or many of the other characters. Love them or hate them you wonder what their final disposition is. I also see where it would be easy to get bogged down and never make it to the end, so I'm not criticizing but observing.
Snape. Yes, the evil Snape. He is a bad person, make no mistake. However nobody is all bad -- or at least they didn't start that way. Snape was Dumbledore's man and Voldemort's man at the same time. I'm not sure how I felt about being cheated on having him turn out that way.
Make no mistake. Harry wins out in the end as everyone knew it must. I never entertained the idea she'd kill Harry. Though it was either Harry or Hagrid who got the "reprieve" Rowling kept mentioning. They both appeared to die and they both survived and we may never know who was destined for eternal death.
That Harry was a horcrux after a fashion should come as no surprise to anyone who was paying attention. That Neville turned out to be terribly important and play a key role should also come as no surprise. And if anyone wondered if Ron and Hermione end up together, well what does one expect to happen with a teen love?
I was certain we'd see the return of Dumbledore and I said as much. He returned, but not in the way I expected. He was too big of a character and too intertwined with the story to be left out of the ending. He also is proven to be less than perfect and considerably more human. This is a major point for moving Harry towards the final battle. Sirius, James, Lily, and the rest stayed dead as expected.
Draco was an enigma to the end. He had the chance early on to positively identify Harry. It was clear he knew it was Harry. There is no doubt, yet he hesitated and said he wasn't sure. He even did this for Ron and Hermione before positively identifying them. Harry returned the favour by saving Draco's life twice in the Battle of Hogwarts.
Everything was fine. And then Rowling wrote the Epilogue. If you just get a razor blade and remove those pages from your book you will be much better off. Well written and utterly unnecessary, trite, contrived, and displeasing. I do not wish the future spelled out for me, and would have much rather had it all left to the imagination. To me it was clearly written well after she finished the main part of the book.
Here are my predictions from the previous post tagged as whether I got them right or not.
- We will hear from Dumbledore in some form (see previous post) RIGHT
- Hagrid will die. He's the big death, I suspect. WRONG
- Ron and Hermione will be a couple RIGHT
- Neville is probably the final horcrux even though every seems to think it's Harry himself. I disagree as you can be your own horcrux -- that would be contrived and I don't think Rowling would do it. WRONG
- Hermione will not die because I believe this is Rowling's representation of herself in the book RIGHT
- I am undecided if Harry bites the big, fat, furry one. N/A
- I believe at least one member of the Weasley clan will die. RIGHT
- I believe we will get a huge moment out of Draco Malfoy. I do believe Ms. Rowling believes in the fact almost anyone can redeem oneself, and I think Malfoy, git that he is, will surprise us in the end. 50/50
- Rowling doesn't lightly pick her book titles, so the Deathly Hallows is itself a clue. A "Hallow" is something that has been made holy, sanctified, and/or consecrated. This will tie back to his parents death somehow. It may also refer to Gordrics Hollow where it all started, so to speak. (For instance, Rowling herself assists with translating the titles and the Swedish title is Relics of Death.) Again, this indicates that there is a specific set of items/relics/etc. RIGHT
- Harry must kill Voldemort. Dumbledore clearly says so. Harry says “I’ve got to try and kill him, or - ” and he replies “Got to? Of course you’ve got to!" RIGHT
First, a Scooter Update
Scooter is home. I picked her up from the vet earlier today. I'd love to tell you she's feeling fine, but she isn't. However, she is thrilled to be home. I spent some time with her, then left her alone for a short time to do a few errands. She cannot walk all that well, but she can walk. She made it to her litter box (and used it), she made it to her food bowl (and ate barely any), and she managed to jump into my chair where she was fast asleep when I came home. She doesn't smell too good, but I think that's because they weren't expecting her to come home today. She's also got a shaved leg where the IV was located. (See previous post if interested).
It still hurts me to watch her try and walk. On the one hand she is walking, on the other hand I use the term walking very loosely. It's more like staggering you'd see on a drunkard. But she seems happy, and is grooming herself. I brushed her repeatedly because she's shedding like mad. She sat in my lap for hours.
I spoke with Dr. Child who informed me that she was eating and has regained an entire pound. However I suspect it's mostly fluid from the IV. I will continue to monitor her carefully. She's also going to be on a wet food diet for a little while so she'll eat more and I'm going to increase her rations. I have the pills which I have to give her twice a day for the next month before they decide what the future dosage will be. I also got pill pockets to try to see if she'll eat them without a fight that way. My regular vet would like to examine her, but I will wait a few days rather than traumatize her with another vet's visit -- she also has to go back to the ER vet in 3 weeks for a follow up there.
I spent most of the day at home with her reading Harry Potter, and a review will be coming shortly.
It still hurts me to watch her try and walk. On the one hand she is walking, on the other hand I use the term walking very loosely. It's more like staggering you'd see on a drunkard. But she seems happy, and is grooming herself. I brushed her repeatedly because she's shedding like mad. She sat in my lap for hours.
I spoke with Dr. Child who informed me that she was eating and has regained an entire pound. However I suspect it's mostly fluid from the IV. I will continue to monitor her carefully. She's also going to be on a wet food diet for a little while so she'll eat more and I'm going to increase her rations. I have the pills which I have to give her twice a day for the next month before they decide what the future dosage will be. I also got pill pockets to try to see if she'll eat them without a fight that way. My regular vet would like to examine her, but I will wait a few days rather than traumatize her with another vet's visit -- she also has to go back to the ER vet in 3 weeks for a follow up there.
I spent most of the day at home with her reading Harry Potter, and a review will be coming shortly.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Even More Scooter News :(
First, see previous post from yesterday. I had an appointment today at 4pm to pick up Scooter and take her home. This appointment was made yesterday because Dr. Child was confident Scooter would be in better shape and able to go home. Friday afternoon is not the time to go to a vet's office.
After a 15 minute wait, the vet came out to answer all my questions. It was Dr. Child's day off so it was one of the other two vets. She was a bit frazzled having finished some surgery on another critter of some sort. She patiently answered all my questions though not what I wanted to hear. They hadn't notified my regular vet Dr. Diaz who has many years of Scooter's medical history. They hadn't made sure she was able to walk. They were just going to send her home and have me bring her in every day for a week for a hydration. Fortunately, I have far more sense than they do, apparently.
Scooter was brought to me and she wasn't struggling with the assistant which was a bad sign. They put her down and she didn't make it two steps. I picked her up and held her. I explained to the vet how unsuitable it would be for Scooter to come home (two stories is bad if you can't walk -- too much risk of falling and getting seriously hurt trying to move around). She agreed and said they would hook Scooter up to an IV and try to rehydrate her and give her more food.
I told them I want time alone with Scooter before she went back to her cage. So I spent a half-hour with Scooter petting her and talking to her and trying to keep her happy -- all while trying not to cry. It was so pitiful I couldn't stand it. When it was time for her to go back to the holding pens, I took her myself and wouldn't turn her over. I am going to visit her again Sunday when Dr. Child is on duty -- and I might go Saturday afternoon as well.
Things just aren't looking too good right now. This vet has a totally different demeanour and outlook than the first vet. I left and went to my regular vet and demanded an immediate audience, and he graciously spoke to me. I explained what had happened and he agreed moving her to his office (or home) right now would just be a Really Bad idea. He also promised to check up with the doctor there. He feels much of this is due to Scooter's age and not the thyroid issue because the symptoms are still not fully matching. Cats with thyroid problems eat a lot and Scooter does not eat a lot any more. I won't likely hear from him again until Monday.
So I am going to have a bad weekend. I didn't sleep last night because Scooter wasn't beside me. I woke up, saw her bed, her dish, her toys and was reminded of her. Then I came home today and saw the same things. A few minutes ago, I caught myself checking her litter box even though she wasn't even home to use it.
After a 15 minute wait, the vet came out to answer all my questions. It was Dr. Child's day off so it was one of the other two vets. She was a bit frazzled having finished some surgery on another critter of some sort. She patiently answered all my questions though not what I wanted to hear. They hadn't notified my regular vet Dr. Diaz who has many years of Scooter's medical history. They hadn't made sure she was able to walk. They were just going to send her home and have me bring her in every day for a week for a hydration. Fortunately, I have far more sense than they do, apparently.
Scooter was brought to me and she wasn't struggling with the assistant which was a bad sign. They put her down and she didn't make it two steps. I picked her up and held her. I explained to the vet how unsuitable it would be for Scooter to come home (two stories is bad if you can't walk -- too much risk of falling and getting seriously hurt trying to move around). She agreed and said they would hook Scooter up to an IV and try to rehydrate her and give her more food.
I told them I want time alone with Scooter before she went back to her cage. So I spent a half-hour with Scooter petting her and talking to her and trying to keep her happy -- all while trying not to cry. It was so pitiful I couldn't stand it. When it was time for her to go back to the holding pens, I took her myself and wouldn't turn her over. I am going to visit her again Sunday when Dr. Child is on duty -- and I might go Saturday afternoon as well.
Things just aren't looking too good right now. This vet has a totally different demeanour and outlook than the first vet. I left and went to my regular vet and demanded an immediate audience, and he graciously spoke to me. I explained what had happened and he agreed moving her to his office (or home) right now would just be a Really Bad idea. He also promised to check up with the doctor there. He feels much of this is due to Scooter's age and not the thyroid issue because the symptoms are still not fully matching. Cats with thyroid problems eat a lot and Scooter does not eat a lot any more. I won't likely hear from him again until Monday.
So I am going to have a bad weekend. I didn't sleep last night because Scooter wasn't beside me. I woke up, saw her bed, her dish, her toys and was reminded of her. Then I came home today and saw the same things. A few minutes ago, I caught myself checking her litter box even though she wasn't even home to use it.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Scooter News :(
Scooter has been losing a little bit of weight -- mostly eating a bit less. But otherwise she has been behaving normally. Just this morning she jumped up on the table and had a try at my breakfast -- something she normally does. She still jumps all over, and is generally active and cantankerous. Her only unusual behaviour change was about three months ago, she decided she wouldn't drink water from her bowl -- only the guest bathroom toilet. I have no idea about that, don't ask.
I came home today a little early, at around 515pm and I was not greeted at the door. I called for Scooter and got a meow in reply. This is unusual because she always greets me at the door and demands fresh food. She was laying next to her bed (not in it) and looked at me plaintively. I said hello and went over to pet her. She stood up, and fell back over. She tried to walk, but listed heavily to one side and fell over again. She tried to run and didn't get two feet before collapsing. I picked her up, grabbed the phone and called the vet's office immediately. My dumb luck that his day off is Thursday and Sunday. I swear violently and stuff Scooter into her carrier and she doesn't resist -- a bad sign to be sure.
I drive like a maniac to the 24hour emergency vet in my neighbourhood. I get there in under 3 minutes, narrowly missing several cars and bicyclists and using the sidewalk as a passing lane. I park illegally and run into the emergency vet's office. I notice Scooter had pissed in her cage, something she's never, ever done before -- meaning she really has no control over her muscles. (I talked to her the whole time so she wouldn't be afraid.)
The Vet's name is Doctor Jill Child, and she sees Scooter (but not me) almost immediately after I answer a few basic questions of the "what's wrong" variety for the receptionist. They put me in the holding cell for distraught parents, which describes me perfectly.
Scooter's been to the vet. She's even been to the emergency vet when she had blood in her pee. But I've never been in fear for her life until today. After about fifteen minutes the Vet comes and talks to me and says there's nothing obviously wrong and she doesn't feel her life is in immediate danger. She said she'll run blood tests and such and call me later and I should go home. She asks me lots of questions and observes that Scooter is a quirky but intelligent cat.
I come home and notice a few things (a) she ate about half her breakfast, (b) there's a relatively fresh log in her litter box, and (c) her toys are strewn about upstairs and downstairs. So clearly this is a recent development. A matter of hours, at most. I prepare to call the Vet to give her more details and just as I do, my phone rings. It's the Vet. She says all of her tests indicate Scooter's organs are in good shape but her weight is critically low and she's got an absurd amount of crud in her ear (an ongoing problem for nearly 7 years). Her cell counts are all very good. She believes it's a thyroid problem even though she has passed several previous tests. She will consult with Doctor Diaz tomorrow.
Scooter must spend the night at the clinic and be force feed via syringe. They are also going to medicate her with Thyroid pills twice a day -- good luck to them with that -- which she will have to take twice per day for the rest of her life. I'm not sure how I'm going to manage that since I have to travel and such, and she's a very bad patient, too. Feeding her antibiotics for an occasional urinary tract infection has always been a challenge.
I will have more news tomorrow and update then.
I am sad, upset, and terribly anxious.
I came home today a little early, at around 515pm and I was not greeted at the door. I called for Scooter and got a meow in reply. This is unusual because she always greets me at the door and demands fresh food. She was laying next to her bed (not in it) and looked at me plaintively. I said hello and went over to pet her. She stood up, and fell back over. She tried to walk, but listed heavily to one side and fell over again. She tried to run and didn't get two feet before collapsing. I picked her up, grabbed the phone and called the vet's office immediately. My dumb luck that his day off is Thursday and Sunday. I swear violently and stuff Scooter into her carrier and she doesn't resist -- a bad sign to be sure.
I drive like a maniac to the 24hour emergency vet in my neighbourhood. I get there in under 3 minutes, narrowly missing several cars and bicyclists and using the sidewalk as a passing lane. I park illegally and run into the emergency vet's office. I notice Scooter had pissed in her cage, something she's never, ever done before -- meaning she really has no control over her muscles. (I talked to her the whole time so she wouldn't be afraid.)
The Vet's name is Doctor Jill Child, and she sees Scooter (but not me) almost immediately after I answer a few basic questions of the "what's wrong" variety for the receptionist. They put me in the holding cell for distraught parents, which describes me perfectly.
Scooter's been to the vet. She's even been to the emergency vet when she had blood in her pee. But I've never been in fear for her life until today. After about fifteen minutes the Vet comes and talks to me and says there's nothing obviously wrong and she doesn't feel her life is in immediate danger. She said she'll run blood tests and such and call me later and I should go home. She asks me lots of questions and observes that Scooter is a quirky but intelligent cat.
I come home and notice a few things (a) she ate about half her breakfast, (b) there's a relatively fresh log in her litter box, and (c) her toys are strewn about upstairs and downstairs. So clearly this is a recent development. A matter of hours, at most. I prepare to call the Vet to give her more details and just as I do, my phone rings. It's the Vet. She says all of her tests indicate Scooter's organs are in good shape but her weight is critically low and she's got an absurd amount of crud in her ear (an ongoing problem for nearly 7 years). Her cell counts are all very good. She believes it's a thyroid problem even though she has passed several previous tests. She will consult with Doctor Diaz tomorrow.
Scooter must spend the night at the clinic and be force feed via syringe. They are also going to medicate her with Thyroid pills twice a day -- good luck to them with that -- which she will have to take twice per day for the rest of her life. I'm not sure how I'm going to manage that since I have to travel and such, and she's a very bad patient, too. Feeding her antibiotics for an occasional urinary tract infection has always been a challenge.
I will have more news tomorrow and update then.
I am sad, upset, and terribly anxious.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Predictions for Potter in the Deathly Hallows
In a previous post, I gave my theory of Dumbledore, but numb-nuts couldn't find it, so I'll put the link here. He was put out that I hadn't given my theory of what's happening in the final book.
For those who wish to know right now, the book has been leaked and is available, though I would prefer everyone buy a copy. I am not going to look at the illegally available copy.
- We will hear from Dumbledore in some form (see previous post)
- Hagrid will die. He's the big death, I suspect.
- Ron and Hermione will be a couple
- Neville is probably the final horcrux even though every seems to think it's Harry himself. I disagree as you can be your own horcrux -- that would be contrived and I don't think Rowling would do it.
- Hermione will not die because I believe this is Rowling's representation of herself in the book
- I am undecided if Harry bites the big, fat, furry one.
- I believe at least one member of the Weasley clan will die.
- I believe we will get a huge moment out of Draco Malfoy. I do believe Ms. Rowling believes in the fact almost anyone can redeem oneself, and I think Malfoy, git that he is, will surprise us in the end.
- Rowling doesn't lightly pick her book titles, so the Deathly Hallows is itself a clue. A "Hallow" is something that has been made holy, sanctified, and/or consecrated. This will tie back to his parents death somehow. It may also refer to Gordrics Hollow where it all started, so to speak. (For instance, Rowling herself assists with translating the titles and the Swedish title is Relics of Death.) Again, this indicates that there is a specific set of items/relics/etc.
- Harry must kill Voldemort. Dumbledore clearly says so. Harry says “I’ve got to try and kill him, or - ” and he replies “Got to? Of course you’ve got to!"
For those who wish to know right now, the book has been leaked and is available, though I would prefer everyone buy a copy. I am not going to look at the illegally available copy.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
I saw Harry Potter's fifth instalment, the Order of the Phoenix today. Actually went over to the west coast to see it with Jace and Grant. This has become our tradition of sorts. Enjoyable time with Jace and Grant. We started with some fine dining at Perkins -- well, it's not fine dining but it's better than Denny's, that's for sure.
We met at 9:30am in North Fort Myers, Florida at the Perkins on Cleveland. Finished eating and arrived at the AMC on Cleveland around 10:30am, and picked up our tickets. The theatre wasn't as clean as it should be, but it began relatively uncrowded but filled up as show-time drew closer. Saw the previews and a few looked good, one of which is the Summer 2008 release of Get Smart -- the Rock is in it, so it might suck.
The movie was about 2-1/4 hours long and it mostly flew by, though it really seemed like nothing happened. There was no magic or joy in the film at all. And they played havoc with the book, relegating the last 100+ pages to a few headlines in the newspaper, The Daily Prophet. This isn't the Harry Potter you've come to know and love.
What is interesting is what they did and didn't approve. Since Rowling knows what must be in the film because it will be important for the seventh film and what isn't, we can learn a lot about what to expect for the last book by viewing this movie. They downplayed the angst in this book between Harry and his friends which I didn't mind so much because it seemed a bit forced in the book. I've always thought Daniel Radcliffe made a great Potter, and Emma Watson is the least changed in her role. Rupert Grint gets better as he gets older, and mercifully Tom Felton barely appears at all. Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge tears up the scenery and is a bright spot. Many of the other characters have bit appearances, though the modernized Dudley at the beginning is interesting it seemed very out of place for some reason I can't place. And I had no idea Warwick Davis was even in the film until I saw the IMDB credits list when I created this review.
I didn't notice any serious errors other than his scar was missing through much of the film. And in one scene they overdubbed "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Christmas" (at the school where it was noticeably out of place) yet left it at the Weasley's home. Not sure why they bothered considering they left in several references to "pudding" which is probably fare more puzzling to American audiences who probably think the English have a pudding fetish. (Note to blog readers: Pudding isn't the same word in US English vs UK English)
All-in-all I have to say, save your money and don't see it in the theatre. It pains me to say it because I wanted to like it, find some redeeming quality, say how much I was entertained despite it being shallow. But I even liked Michael Bay's vision of Transformers better than I liked Potter. That hurts. All in all, I had a great time with the company but the movie just didn't cut it.
We met at 9:30am in North Fort Myers, Florida at the Perkins on Cleveland. Finished eating and arrived at the AMC on Cleveland around 10:30am, and picked up our tickets. The theatre wasn't as clean as it should be, but it began relatively uncrowded but filled up as show-time drew closer. Saw the previews and a few looked good, one of which is the Summer 2008 release of Get Smart -- the Rock is in it, so it might suck.
The movie was about 2-1/4 hours long and it mostly flew by, though it really seemed like nothing happened. There was no magic or joy in the film at all. And they played havoc with the book, relegating the last 100+ pages to a few headlines in the newspaper, The Daily Prophet. This isn't the Harry Potter you've come to know and love.
What is interesting is what they did and didn't approve. Since Rowling knows what must be in the film because it will be important for the seventh film and what isn't, we can learn a lot about what to expect for the last book by viewing this movie. They downplayed the angst in this book between Harry and his friends which I didn't mind so much because it seemed a bit forced in the book. I've always thought Daniel Radcliffe made a great Potter, and Emma Watson is the least changed in her role. Rupert Grint gets better as he gets older, and mercifully Tom Felton barely appears at all. Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge tears up the scenery and is a bright spot. Many of the other characters have bit appearances, though the modernized Dudley at the beginning is interesting it seemed very out of place for some reason I can't place. And I had no idea Warwick Davis was even in the film until I saw the IMDB credits list when I created this review.
I didn't notice any serious errors other than his scar was missing through much of the film. And in one scene they overdubbed "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Christmas" (at the school where it was noticeably out of place) yet left it at the Weasley's home. Not sure why they bothered considering they left in several references to "pudding" which is probably fare more puzzling to American audiences who probably think the English have a pudding fetish. (Note to blog readers: Pudding isn't the same word in US English vs UK English)
All-in-all I have to say, save your money and don't see it in the theatre. It pains me to say it because I wanted to like it, find some redeeming quality, say how much I was entertained despite it being shallow. But I even liked Michael Bay's vision of Transformers better than I liked Potter. That hurts. All in all, I had a great time with the company but the movie just didn't cut it.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Transformers, The Michael Bay Vision
I must offer up a disclaimer of sorts: first I was not a lover of the original cartoon, nor did I hate it. I was indifferent and thought it was sort of silly, though the toys were cool. Way cool. I am also not a fan of Michael Bay, he who cannot hold a camera shot for 60 seconds, he who makes the serious funny, and he who producers the most bombastic films and thinks it's a compliment.
Yes, it's a stupid toy movie. Michael Bay strikes again with Transformers. This is like all other Michael Bay films -- it's long, it's full of action, and it's overdone. Seeing the transformers do their work was neat. Shia LaBeouf did a great job with his part, but all the character were caricatures and that's not what you want in an action film. I think this was supposed to be an action film, but I'm not sure because the only person who gets Michael Bay's vision is Michael Bay. Was I entertained? Yeah. Was it good? No. It was better than most of his other movies, except perhaps Armageddon. It was certainly better than that Pearl Harbor film he put out.
This film suffered from Bay disease, which means it views like a kid with ADHD who forgot his Ritalin. You see something and the camera keeps switching angles, and the scenes keep changing. Sometimes an audience wants to look to see what's happening, but it's hard.
The subtitles of the aliens speaking in their native language were absurd and I'm not sure why he did that. It was utter rubbish. And there was an amusing continuity gaffe where the street signs in the city changed colors repeatedly from green to blue to yellow. Not a big deal, but it was really obvious. I guess they did a few shots in real LA and then did the rest elsewhere where it was cheaper. During the attack on Sector 7 they say they're sending F-22, but the first aircraft to be shown taking off are F-16s. There are a number of scenes where it changes from daylight to night far too quickly and without any plausible reason. Yeah, I was so interested in the film I noticed goofs instead.
Also, I must point out that the dialog was often stilted, especially that of the robots but that may have been intentional. And the voice of Optimus Prime sounded just like the cartoon. Did they get the same guy? Anyone know?
See it. Don't see it. It doesn't matter. It will still make more money than it deserves. I know I said I wouldn't see it, but Adrian was able to actually leave and do something, so there we were. We ate at TGIF's.
Also, on Flickr, I posted a new photo: a nice new sweater courtesy of K. Higgins.
Yes, it's a stupid toy movie. Michael Bay strikes again with Transformers. This is like all other Michael Bay films -- it's long, it's full of action, and it's overdone. Seeing the transformers do their work was neat. Shia LaBeouf did a great job with his part, but all the character were caricatures and that's not what you want in an action film. I think this was supposed to be an action film, but I'm not sure because the only person who gets Michael Bay's vision is Michael Bay. Was I entertained? Yeah. Was it good? No. It was better than most of his other movies, except perhaps Armageddon. It was certainly better than that Pearl Harbor film he put out.
This film suffered from Bay disease, which means it views like a kid with ADHD who forgot his Ritalin. You see something and the camera keeps switching angles, and the scenes keep changing. Sometimes an audience wants to look to see what's happening, but it's hard.
The subtitles of the aliens speaking in their native language were absurd and I'm not sure why he did that. It was utter rubbish. And there was an amusing continuity gaffe where the street signs in the city changed colors repeatedly from green to blue to yellow. Not a big deal, but it was really obvious. I guess they did a few shots in real LA and then did the rest elsewhere where it was cheaper. During the attack on Sector 7 they say they're sending F-22, but the first aircraft to be shown taking off are F-16s. There are a number of scenes where it changes from daylight to night far too quickly and without any plausible reason. Yeah, I was so interested in the film I noticed goofs instead.
Also, I must point out that the dialog was often stilted, especially that of the robots but that may have been intentional. And the voice of Optimus Prime sounded just like the cartoon. Did they get the same guy? Anyone know?
See it. Don't see it. It doesn't matter. It will still make more money than it deserves. I know I said I wouldn't see it, but Adrian was able to actually leave and do something, so there we were. We ate at TGIF's.
Also, on Flickr, I posted a new photo: a nice new sweater courtesy of K. Higgins.
Ratatouille Really Rocks
Ratatouille really rocks. This rodent tale, written and directed by Brad Bird of Incredibles fame, is one powerful film. When I first saw the previews, I'll be honest, I wasn't interested. I thought it was going to be the worst of the Pixar lot (Cars currently holds that honour in my opinion). Instead, I have to report this as, by far, the best thing to come out of Pixar, ever. In fact, this may be one of the best films to come out of Dinsey in years. It's not Lion King, but that's not fair because Lion King is a classic for the ages.
I have to tell you, this film may be a classic for the ages as well. I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this film. It worked on every level. It worked as a cartoon, because it is a cartoon. It worked as a kids' film because the kids were all entertained. It worked as an adult film because there were some very adult innuendos and double-entendres, some that even slipped by the censors judging by the "G" rating.
I wish I could tell you about some flaws in the film, but there aren't any major flaws. Sure, there are some bits the seem rushed, but at 110 minutes you're at the outer-reach of attention-span for a "kiddie cartoon." And the credibility of a talking rat that cooks is absurd, but so are the talking animals in Lion King, the fish in Finding Nemo, and the toys in Toy Story. You can't hold that against a film, or you'd not like Lord of the Rings either.
I can honestly tell you, go see this film. Twice.
I have to tell you, this film may be a classic for the ages as well. I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this film. It worked on every level. It worked as a cartoon, because it is a cartoon. It worked as a kids' film because the kids were all entertained. It worked as an adult film because there were some very adult innuendos and double-entendres, some that even slipped by the censors judging by the "G" rating.
I wish I could tell you about some flaws in the film, but there aren't any major flaws. Sure, there are some bits the seem rushed, but at 110 minutes you're at the outer-reach of attention-span for a "kiddie cartoon." And the credibility of a talking rat that cooks is absurd, but so are the talking animals in Lion King, the fish in Finding Nemo, and the toys in Toy Story. You can't hold that against a film, or you'd not like Lord of the Rings either.
I can honestly tell you, go see this film. Twice.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Bush is a Liar and hypocrite. Proof.
When you say one thing and then say another statement which contradicts your first one, that makes you a liar. Bush is a liar. He's a rat bastard too, but that's my personal opinion.
ACTION ONE:
If there's a leak out of my administration, I want to know who it is. If the person has violated law, that person will be taken care of. -- George W. Bush, Feb 10, 2004
I don't know about you, but that's pretty clear and simple. No room for any interpretation.
ACTION TWO:
Yesterday, George Bush commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby. He disregarded the wishes of the public and the judicial system and the jury and did what he wanted. Apparently, the leak wasn't so important. He's a hypocrite.
I say, let's try him for High Treason (and the death penalty as prescribed upon conviction) as an example to those who would use the office of president to put their personal goals and desires ahead of those of our country. The good of the nation is what the president is supposed to serve and he is losing his way more and more every day.
The Law of the Land (18 U.S.C. § 2381): "whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States."
By definition releasing that information gave aid to the enemy, and by Bush's own words we are at war with terrorists. We are at ware, aid was given to the enemy. All requirements for High Treason have been met. The penalty is death. I say, let's do it.
Impeachment just isn't good enough. Kill the bastard.
ACTION ONE:
If there's a leak out of my administration, I want to know who it is. If the person has violated law, that person will be taken care of. -- George W. Bush, Feb 10, 2004
I don't know about you, but that's pretty clear and simple. No room for any interpretation.
ACTION TWO:
Yesterday, George Bush commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby. He disregarded the wishes of the public and the judicial system and the jury and did what he wanted. Apparently, the leak wasn't so important. He's a hypocrite.
ACTION THREE:
WASHINGTON (AP)- President George W. Bush on Tuesday refused to rule out an eventual pardon for former White House aide I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby. "As to the future, I rule nothing in and nothing out," the president said a day after commuting Libby's 2 1/2 year prison term in the CIA leak case. Bush said he had weighed his decision carefully to erase prison time for Libby, a former aide to Vice President Dick Cheney. "I made a judgment, a considered judgment," the president said. "I stand by it." At the same time, he left the door open for the possibility of a pardon later.
I say, let's try him for High Treason (and the death penalty as prescribed upon conviction) as an example to those who would use the office of president to put their personal goals and desires ahead of those of our country. The good of the nation is what the president is supposed to serve and he is losing his way more and more every day.
The Law of the Land (18 U.S.C. § 2381): "whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States."
By definition releasing that information gave aid to the enemy, and by Bush's own words we are at war with terrorists. We are at ware, aid was given to the enemy. All requirements for High Treason have been met. The penalty is death. I say, let's do it.
Impeachment just isn't good enough. Kill the bastard.
The Last of Photos For Now
Today I have posted the last 12 photos on my Flickr account. In a previous post, I explained the project.
Again, I encourage you to add any comments/notes to the photos if you remember something that I didn't, especially when it comes to identifying people. If it became a group project, that would be fine, too.
Also, you can buy prints of any photo on Flickr where there's an "Order Prints" button. This is not something I make money on nor approve of or object to. It's entirely Flickr's gig, but if you want an actual printed copy it's the fastest and best way....
I am sending in one last batch for digitizing and you should see those in 4 to 6 weeks. If you think there are photos missing you'd like to see, please let me know via e-mail and I'll add more.
Again, I encourage you to add any comments/notes to the photos if you remember something that I didn't, especially when it comes to identifying people. If it became a group project, that would be fine, too.
Also, you can buy prints of any photo on Flickr where there's an "Order Prints" button. This is not something I make money on nor approve of or object to. It's entirely Flickr's gig, but if you want an actual printed copy it's the fastest and best way....
I am sending in one last batch for digitizing and you should see those in 4 to 6 weeks. If you think there are photos missing you'd like to see, please let me know via e-mail and I'll add more.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Appleism (Apple Becomes a Religion)
I use StumpleUpon regularly, and it dropped me into a blog which has a fascinating post. I'm sorry it took me so long to blog it, but here it is. David Kuo writes a rather interesting piece entitled "Welcome to Appleism – the religion that is Apple." I don't want to spoil it all here without encouraging you to read it first.
He starts with this statement: Apple isn’t a cult anymore, it has become a full blown religion with scores of millions of followers. The frenzy around the iPhone brings to mind the clamoring throngs that greeted Jesus at the height of his ministry. And it's a telling statement because he's right, there is a frenzy. Though, I daresay, it's more consumerism than anything resembling religion. The frenzy is no different than that surrounding the Nintendo Wii or any other über-hot item.
Lest you think I am disagreeing with Mr. Kuo, I am not. Apple has certainly become a religion of sorts, but a proper one that has developed over time. Its members are fiercely loyal, even when they shouldn't be. The evangelize their religion by trying to convert all their friends. I do that very thing, but I will not recommend one of Apple's "bad" products, though happily they are few and far between.
Mr. Kuo also states "Appleism espouses a liberal worldview that challenges conventional morality and norms and encourages creativity. It was clearly seen in the famed 'Think Different' ad campaign." And that is a key point because Think Different embodied the spirit of Apple. Mr. Kuo missed the very most important point of all, though. You either get it, or you don't.
I have friends and relatives that will never get it, and I don't even bother trying to convert them anymore. Not to put down my friends/relatives, but those who have converted have seen the light and realize the bliss of being righteous and knowing you've done the right thing. I'd love to insult the unconverted lot and say the intelligent ones have converted and the less-than-sharp have not, but that's a generalization and wholly untrue. There is no quantifiable measurement of get it, but anyone who is an Appleist, certainly gets it. There is research that does quantify the fact Apple users are statistically smarter than PC users (see previous blog entry) but I don't feel the pressing need to rub it in your face*.
It's no secret that I think different. That's probably why I get it.
(* Besides, all Mac vs PC arguments can be won by uttering the phrase Windows ME which will shut up even the most virulent Microsoft supporter).
He starts with this statement: Apple isn’t a cult anymore, it has become a full blown religion with scores of millions of followers. The frenzy around the iPhone brings to mind the clamoring throngs that greeted Jesus at the height of his ministry. And it's a telling statement because he's right, there is a frenzy. Though, I daresay, it's more consumerism than anything resembling religion. The frenzy is no different than that surrounding the Nintendo Wii or any other über-hot item.
Lest you think I am disagreeing with Mr. Kuo, I am not. Apple has certainly become a religion of sorts, but a proper one that has developed over time. Its members are fiercely loyal, even when they shouldn't be. The evangelize their religion by trying to convert all their friends. I do that very thing, but I will not recommend one of Apple's "bad" products, though happily they are few and far between.
Mr. Kuo also states "Appleism espouses a liberal worldview that challenges conventional morality and norms and encourages creativity. It was clearly seen in the famed 'Think Different' ad campaign." And that is a key point because Think Different embodied the spirit of Apple. Mr. Kuo missed the very most important point of all, though. You either get it, or you don't.
I have friends and relatives that will never get it, and I don't even bother trying to convert them anymore. Not to put down my friends/relatives, but those who have converted have seen the light and realize the bliss of being righteous and knowing you've done the right thing. I'd love to insult the unconverted lot and say the intelligent ones have converted and the less-than-sharp have not, but that's a generalization and wholly untrue. There is no quantifiable measurement of get it, but anyone who is an Appleist, certainly gets it. There is research that does quantify the fact Apple users are statistically smarter than PC users (see previous blog entry) but I don't feel the pressing need to rub it in your face*.
It's no secret that I think different. That's probably why I get it.
(* Besides, all Mac vs PC arguments can be won by uttering the phrase Windows ME which will shut up even the most virulent Microsoft supporter).
Yippee Kai Yay, Mother Fucker
Yes, John McClane is back as played by Bruce Willis. The new film Live Free or Die Hard is now out -- though the name is somewhat misleading as to the content of the film. I went in figuring the film would be okay, but that I wouldn't really enjoy it because the franchise is both old and dated -- as well as the lead.
I was wrong. The film rocks from the opening moments to the final credit roll. It's entertaining, the character is still believable and retains his sense of humour. His signature quote is cut-off right after the "F" though and that gives this film just enough to squeak by with a PG-13 instead of an R.
No film like this is actually believable or to be taken seriously, but the bit with the F-16 (or whatever model that was) flying in and out of the freeway pylons was simply a bit much. It was entertaining but stretched credulity just a little too far. His daughter was very well cast, the villain less so. The hacker geeks were very well done, and I speak from personal experience. "I am a Mac" guy was so believable in his role, it was scary.
If you liked the first movies, go see this film. You will not be disappointed.
I must mention one bit unrelated to the film. Many of my friends asked why I am not rushing out to see "Transformers" and I have two reasons. First, I was never a big fan of the cartoon. Didn't like it and didn't hate it. It was just there, though the toys were very cool. Secondly, I can answer in two words: Michael Bay. Michael Bay cannot direct his way out of a paper bag. He is responsible for "Pearl Harbor" and ruining some fine films in remakes. His best film was the entertaining Armageddon which lacked any style whatsoever; if that's the best you can do: shame on you. Next up, he will mangle the Hitchcock classic the Birds.
I was wrong. The film rocks from the opening moments to the final credit roll. It's entertaining, the character is still believable and retains his sense of humour. His signature quote is cut-off right after the "F" though and that gives this film just enough to squeak by with a PG-13 instead of an R.
No film like this is actually believable or to be taken seriously, but the bit with the F-16 (or whatever model that was) flying in and out of the freeway pylons was simply a bit much. It was entertaining but stretched credulity just a little too far. His daughter was very well cast, the villain less so. The hacker geeks were very well done, and I speak from personal experience. "I am a Mac" guy was so believable in his role, it was scary.
If you liked the first movies, go see this film. You will not be disappointed.
I must mention one bit unrelated to the film. Many of my friends asked why I am not rushing out to see "Transformers" and I have two reasons. First, I was never a big fan of the cartoon. Didn't like it and didn't hate it. It was just there, though the toys were very cool. Secondly, I can answer in two words: Michael Bay. Michael Bay cannot direct his way out of a paper bag. He is responsible for "Pearl Harbor" and ruining some fine films in remakes. His best film was the entertaining Armageddon which lacked any style whatsoever; if that's the best you can do: shame on you. Next up, he will mangle the Hitchcock classic the Birds.
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