Before I shut down for the night, I thought I'd post today's events. Not much to report -- we had the usual wake-up, breakfast -- where the proprietors, Indians, greeted us warmly and recognized us and chatted up Karen -- and then popped on the Circle/District line to Westminster and changed for the Jubilee and on to Southwark (which Karen keeps pronouncing as South Wark causing me to laugh). We walked to the Tate Modern which is a great museum. We had a spot of cocoa whilst waiting for it to open. Much of the gallery was closed because they have new exhibits opening on 4 January so we did the whole thing in 90 minutes which was dissapointing.
We walked across the Millenium Bridge to Saint Paul's Cathedral. We then walked down to Temple tube to get a feel of a different neighbourhood. We got off at South Ken to go to the Science Museum but it was swamped so we walked down old Brompton Road to Gloucester Road tube and to the hotel.
We got back to the hotel used the business center to check in for our flights. Then we went to the front desk because our room keys stopped working (no idea why).
Next we were planning on Hyde Park and the Princess Diana Memorial but Karen decided it was too cold. We also didn't go to Abbey Road for the same reason. So we ended up going to the Bank of England museum. We were going to lunch there, but everything was closed. We ended up taking the tube to Notting Hill Gate and finding the Swan Pub. I'd love to tell you how good it was. It wasn't. Don't go. Both of our dishes were dissapointing though the chips were okay. I suppose some of it had to do with the old guy picking and picking and then finally blowing snot rockets into his hand.
We then came back, stopping at Paul for a Eclair Cafe to drown out the taste of the pun food. After I type this, I'm going to pack everything except tonight's clothes and tomorrow morning's clothes.
Other stuff we didn't do that we planned on were a walk down Carnaby Street, the Liecester Square shops area, and the Science Museum. We did the Natural History Museum only on a technicality (See previous blog post).
BTW, if you're looking for the relocated Photographer's Gallery, it's just off Oxford Street on Ramilles Street (not Place) just a few metres off Great Marlborough Road.
Tonight it's off to the O2. Online with AIM chatting with people at the moment.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
England Day 6 complete
To answer several emails day one was departure day and I wasn't actually here. The first day here was day two even though it wasn't a full day. Day eight will be boring too as it will involve waking up and going to the airport. It just made the trip seem longer :)
Now back to the events so far. Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my hair... Oh wait, that was the Beatles A Day In The Life. Never mind.
Left, ate at the cafe across from Gloucester Road tube because it was convenient, and hopped on the tube to Waterloo (cue Abba) and changed for the Bakerloo to get to the Imperial War Museum. The purpose was to visit the special Ian Fleming exhibit. Mr Fleming is the author who created James Bond if you didn't know. It was quite fascinating. Karen also wanted to visit the Holocaust exhibit which I had previously done with Jan. I cannot begin to tell you how disturbing those images (film, photos, first hand stories) were the first time. The second time they are no less disturbing. We left emotionally drained and then went off to the newly relocated Photographer's Gallery. I would love to tell you how brilliant the new exhibit space was, and I will. Lovely compared the old cramped one. Sadly the images on display were just bad. Nothing of interest. Some really bizarre transsexual twins who posed to the detriment of the audience. No idea what the photographer was trying to say except "this will warp your brain" -- many people left after seeing the second (nude) one. The first one was ugly but not repulsive. The nude one wasn't repulsive but very very odd.
We walked down Great Marlborough Street for no particular reason other than it was there. I am still trying to find a UK sized chequebook cover here. Since so few people here write cheques, they're relatively uncommon and the few shops that stocked them were out due to Christmas sales. The bank had none and isn't getting them anymore. It's really bugging me. Any leads from my readers on one would be brilliant. Leather, plastic, anything. Not having one is a pain. For my US readers, UK checks are longer and less tall and they tear on the left side.
We tried the Natural History Museum but it was crowded beyond belief and the queue to get into the dinosaur exhibit was thousands of people long. The ice rink was open so we watched a bit, popped back to the hotel. Karen had tea and I had Advil. I called the office and woke everyone up.
At 430 we left for Rules (yay) and then to a play. Rules was very good but it wasn't excellent as it usually is. The food wasn't flawless though the service was better than usual. The dessert was wonderful -- Golden Treacle Pudding. We took our damn sweet time and then went to pick up our tickets to 39 Steps -- which was moved from 1930 to 2000. Yeah, the Hitchcock movie rendered as a play. A comedy to be exact. It was funny but not great. Just an evening's diversion and quite short. Took the tube back and here I am.
I will report on tomorrow b ut not sute when. I am not sure if I will have update time beyond that. The rest may have to wait until I return. Lucky you. We're off to see a concert at the O2 tomorrow evening and won't be back until 2am approximately and then we're up at 730 to eat and go to Heathrow.
I do hope this day-by-summary interests you all.
Now back to the events so far. Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my hair... Oh wait, that was the Beatles A Day In The Life. Never mind.
Left, ate at the cafe across from Gloucester Road tube because it was convenient, and hopped on the tube to Waterloo (cue Abba) and changed for the Bakerloo to get to the Imperial War Museum. The purpose was to visit the special Ian Fleming exhibit. Mr Fleming is the author who created James Bond if you didn't know. It was quite fascinating. Karen also wanted to visit the Holocaust exhibit which I had previously done with Jan. I cannot begin to tell you how disturbing those images (film, photos, first hand stories) were the first time. The second time they are no less disturbing. We left emotionally drained and then went off to the newly relocated Photographer's Gallery. I would love to tell you how brilliant the new exhibit space was, and I will. Lovely compared the old cramped one. Sadly the images on display were just bad. Nothing of interest. Some really bizarre transsexual twins who posed to the detriment of the audience. No idea what the photographer was trying to say except "this will warp your brain" -- many people left after seeing the second (nude) one. The first one was ugly but not repulsive. The nude one wasn't repulsive but very very odd.
We walked down Great Marlborough Street for no particular reason other than it was there. I am still trying to find a UK sized chequebook cover here. Since so few people here write cheques, they're relatively uncommon and the few shops that stocked them were out due to Christmas sales. The bank had none and isn't getting them anymore. It's really bugging me. Any leads from my readers on one would be brilliant. Leather, plastic, anything. Not having one is a pain. For my US readers, UK checks are longer and less tall and they tear on the left side.
We tried the Natural History Museum but it was crowded beyond belief and the queue to get into the dinosaur exhibit was thousands of people long. The ice rink was open so we watched a bit, popped back to the hotel. Karen had tea and I had Advil. I called the office and woke everyone up.
At 430 we left for Rules (yay) and then to a play. Rules was very good but it wasn't excellent as it usually is. The food wasn't flawless though the service was better than usual. The dessert was wonderful -- Golden Treacle Pudding. We took our damn sweet time and then went to pick up our tickets to 39 Steps -- which was moved from 1930 to 2000. Yeah, the Hitchcock movie rendered as a play. A comedy to be exact. It was funny but not great. Just an evening's diversion and quite short. Took the tube back and here I am.
I will report on tomorrow b ut not sute when. I am not sure if I will have update time beyond that. The rest may have to wait until I return. Lucky you. We're off to see a concert at the O2 tomorrow evening and won't be back until 2am approximately and then we're up at 730 to eat and go to Heathrow.
I do hope this day-by-summary interests you all.
Monday, December 29, 2008
England Day 4 end and Day 5 Complete
Last night Karen's feet were hurting because, against all advice, she wore NEW shoes on the trip and hald multiple blisters. So, long about 545pm we raced via foot and tube to Lilywhite's for her to buy new shoes. Naturally she started to buy the nice looking ones and not the comfortable ones. What is WRONG with women? Anyway after yelling she bought the ones that fit better but she's mad because the colour of the navy ones isn't as nice as the grey/pink ones she didn't buy. :: roll eyes ::
After that we walked down through Trafalger Square to Embankment and back through to Liecester Square. Then on to Pizza Express where the food is decent but the service was twice as bad as usual.
Woke up and day 5 was off to the Museum in Docklands. I wasn't sure if Karen liked it but she did. I stopped at HSBC's world HQ in Canary Wharf but still couldn't get a checkbook cover to fit my English checkbook. This shouldn't be so hard. But it is.
We took the DLR out to Greenwich and walked up to the observatory for the view. Spent awhile and walked around the park before returning to the DLR (Cutty Sark) and off to Cnary Warf to rejoin the Jubilee line.
After that went down to the Jubilee Line sat on the train and nothing happened. They made an annoucement that due to signal failure the line was closed indefinitely. Which is brilliant because it opened today after four days of engineering works to REPAIR the signals. The Circle line had a one-under so it was also closed.
Because we were foobar we took the DLR to Bank, popped on the Northern and went up to King's Cross and walked to the British Library which was the back-up plan. Only I got on the train and Karen didn't. She lollygagged and the doors shut in her face. I signalled to go one stop, where I waited for her.
Karen loved the British Library -- and they had all those usual cool things on display including the original Magna Carta, works in the hands of Mozart, Beethoven, Ravel, and so forth. The original "Origins of Species" by Darwin was on display as were some handwritten original Shakespeare plays.
Back to the hotel and I called Rules because they opened today. They've agreed to serve us dinner at 445pm on Tuesday so we're in there. Way too early, but that's the choice so we're taking it.
Today Karen is having blisters. And you're up to date.
ADDED TONIGHT: We ate at Bunches of Grapes pub, but Karen didn't care for the Fish and Chips. She wanted a pie but they had no pie on offer today so she got what I got even though she doesn't like deep fried. Besides, you gotta' have fish and chips at least once in the UK.
Saw Billy Elliot which remains the best play ever, though again I caution that this play isn't for everyone. If you liked the movie, you'll love the play. Or if you've got some working knowledge of English modern history and a passable understanding of English slang and accents, you'll do fine as well. The new Billy was a fine dancer but his singing chops weren't quite as good and he seemed to have less singing parts. His voice broke a couple of times so I believe he won't be Billy for long. Still a fine performance.
The theatre was bloody hot and despite the sub-freezing temperature I didn't wear my jacket, sweater, gloves, or hat on the return trip. Idiot me.
After that we walked down through Trafalger Square to Embankment and back through to Liecester Square. Then on to Pizza Express where the food is decent but the service was twice as bad as usual.
Woke up and day 5 was off to the Museum in Docklands. I wasn't sure if Karen liked it but she did. I stopped at HSBC's world HQ in Canary Wharf but still couldn't get a checkbook cover to fit my English checkbook. This shouldn't be so hard. But it is.
We took the DLR out to Greenwich and walked up to the observatory for the view. Spent awhile and walked around the park before returning to the DLR (Cutty Sark) and off to Cnary Warf to rejoin the Jubilee line.
After that went down to the Jubilee Line sat on the train and nothing happened. They made an annoucement that due to signal failure the line was closed indefinitely. Which is brilliant because it opened today after four days of engineering works to REPAIR the signals. The Circle line had a one-under so it was also closed.
Because we were foobar we took the DLR to Bank, popped on the Northern and went up to King's Cross and walked to the British Library which was the back-up plan. Only I got on the train and Karen didn't. She lollygagged and the doors shut in her face. I signalled to go one stop, where I waited for her.
Karen loved the British Library -- and they had all those usual cool things on display including the original Magna Carta, works in the hands of Mozart, Beethoven, Ravel, and so forth. The original "Origins of Species" by Darwin was on display as were some handwritten original Shakespeare plays.
Back to the hotel and I called Rules because they opened today. They've agreed to serve us dinner at 445pm on Tuesday so we're in there. Way too early, but that's the choice so we're taking it.
Today Karen is having blisters. And you're up to date.
ADDED TONIGHT: We ate at Bunches of Grapes pub, but Karen didn't care for the Fish and Chips. She wanted a pie but they had no pie on offer today so she got what I got even though she doesn't like deep fried. Besides, you gotta' have fish and chips at least once in the UK.
Saw Billy Elliot which remains the best play ever, though again I caution that this play isn't for everyone. If you liked the movie, you'll love the play. Or if you've got some working knowledge of English modern history and a passable understanding of English slang and accents, you'll do fine as well. The new Billy was a fine dancer but his singing chops weren't quite as good and he seemed to have less singing parts. His voice broke a couple of times so I believe he won't be Billy for long. Still a fine performance.
The theatre was bloody hot and despite the sub-freezing temperature I didn't wear my jacket, sweater, gloves, or hat on the return trip. Idiot me.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
England Day 4 (to 5pm)
Today was a breakfast at Patisserie Valerie with the world's most delectable croissants. We walked from our hotel at Gloucester Road there and then on to Knightsbridge tube. We went to the Tower of London to take the Yeoman Warder tour and see the crown jewels. Sunday morning is always the least crowded time to go.
We went off to Speaker's Corner next which was damn near deserted due to the cold, which is expected to continue to get worse. So that will adjust our nighttime activities. After that, we went off to Covent Garden where we walked about, went to the Tube Museum Shop (but not the museum). After that we returned to Harrod's for me to buy a warm but over-priced hat as opposed to the cheap but not so warm crappy ones that are ten pounds all over the place.
Tomorrow we won't see 40 and lows will be in the upper 20s. Fact is the lows won't be above 32 for the rest of the trip. Highs will hover around 41 though.
After that, we had a spot of tea (blech). And then I went to Waitrose for some room stuff (candy, raspberries, etc). Lovely.
Yesterday, I forgot to mention, we went into a Woolworth's which is shutting down 1-5-09 after 99 years in business. It's in receivership and is being liquidated now.
No play tonight so probably just some walking. We'll see. Probably just add it to tomorrow's post.
We went off to Speaker's Corner next which was damn near deserted due to the cold, which is expected to continue to get worse. So that will adjust our nighttime activities. After that, we went off to Covent Garden where we walked about, went to the Tube Museum Shop (but not the museum). After that we returned to Harrod's for me to buy a warm but over-priced hat as opposed to the cheap but not so warm crappy ones that are ten pounds all over the place.
Tomorrow we won't see 40 and lows will be in the upper 20s. Fact is the lows won't be above 32 for the rest of the trip. Highs will hover around 41 though.
After that, we had a spot of tea (blech). And then I went to Waitrose for some room stuff (candy, raspberries, etc). Lovely.
Yesterday, I forgot to mention, we went into a Woolworth's which is shutting down 1-5-09 after 99 years in business. It's in receivership and is being liquidated now.
No play tonight so probably just some walking. We'll see. Probably just add it to tomorrow's post.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Go Bears!
Right. Being here in England, I ended up missing the Emerald Bowl. It's now 210am back home or 710am Sunday morning here. I read the news today, oh boy. And.. and... and... and... WE WON!
A note from the AP Wire: Bay Area fans clad in blue and gold filled all but a few thousand spots in the sold-out stadium, turning the San Francisco Giants' waterfront ballpark into a cross-Bay rendition of Strawberry Canyon with a bowl-record crowd of 42,268. The Bears' campus is roughly 12 miles from San Francisco, yet the team stayed in a hotel in the city during its week of preparation, crossing the Bay Bridge for daily practice in Berkeley.
In local news, I slept like shite again. I do not recommend this hotel for the comfort minded. It's probably okay for those needing to save a few pounds a night, but it's not all that cheap. I'm still furious about my hat. I am going to try and buy a new one today.
A note from the AP Wire: Bay Area fans clad in blue and gold filled all but a few thousand spots in the sold-out stadium, turning the San Francisco Giants' waterfront ballpark into a cross-Bay rendition of Strawberry Canyon with a bowl-record crowd of 42,268. The Bears' campus is roughly 12 miles from San Francisco, yet the team stayed in a hotel in the city during its week of preparation, crossing the Bay Bridge for daily practice in Berkeley.
In local news, I slept like shite again. I do not recommend this hotel for the comfort minded. It's probably okay for those needing to save a few pounds a night, but it's not all that cheap. I'm still furious about my hat. I am going to try and buy a new one today.
England Day 3 (from 4pm) The David Beckham Chronicles
The rest of today was simple, with Rules closed we left the hotel for Little Italy -- the one on Frith Street and not the chain. Since my last visit, it's been totally remodelled, is twice the size and twice the price. But the food is a winner as always so it doesn't matter. Not same Mafia family running it either.
My hat is definitely missing so perhaps I'll buy a new one tomorrow as the temperature is expected to be under 32 tomorrow evening. This was the most awesome hat. It was an all black Kangol hat that looked just like Kyle's in South Park only this was soft and fake fur trimmed. I bought it in Selfridges quite some years ago.
After dinner we walked around and then picked up our tickets to Jersey Boys which were waiting at will call. We scooted across the street and grabbed a Cadbury bar at about 1/10000th the price of the theatre. We then went to our seats. Our seats were really, really excellent. How excellent were they? Two rows BEHIND us were Mr and Mrs David Beckham. Posh Spice is, well, posh even in person. At intermission their bodyguard escorted them out of the theatre and into some private room. And after the show, the band played on, giving the Bechams time to escape before the house lights went on. The bodyguard was standing next to us at the end of the row, but quite honestly if I hired a bodyguard I'd rather him be watching ME and not the play.
The Play? Jersey Boys rocked as much this time as it did in Vegas. It's just really good. I had seen it and reviewed it previously and my opinion's not changed. This one is a true winner for the long haul. This is London and you don't (like in most of the USA) get an automatic standing ovation. They're still rare here and they got one and a loud one at that.
I took no pictures today. I suck.
My hat is definitely missing so perhaps I'll buy a new one tomorrow as the temperature is expected to be under 32 tomorrow evening. This was the most awesome hat. It was an all black Kangol hat that looked just like Kyle's in South Park only this was soft and fake fur trimmed. I bought it in Selfridges quite some years ago.
After dinner we walked around and then picked up our tickets to Jersey Boys which were waiting at will call. We scooted across the street and grabbed a Cadbury bar at about 1/10000th the price of the theatre. We then went to our seats. Our seats were really, really excellent. How excellent were they? Two rows BEHIND us were Mr and Mrs David Beckham. Posh Spice is, well, posh even in person. At intermission their bodyguard escorted them out of the theatre and into some private room. And after the show, the band played on, giving the Bechams time to escape before the house lights went on. The bodyguard was standing next to us at the end of the row, but quite honestly if I hired a bodyguard I'd rather him be watching ME and not the play.
The Play? Jersey Boys rocked as much this time as it did in Vegas. It's just really good. I had seen it and reviewed it previously and my opinion's not changed. This one is a true winner for the long haul. This is London and you don't (like in most of the USA) get an automatic standing ovation. They're still rare here and they got one and a loud one at that.
I took no pictures today. I suck.
England Day 3 (through 4pm GMT)
A follow on for yesterday's post. I forgot to mention a funny anecdote. When we got to Boots, and Karen was asking about her cough medicine, the pharmacist listened and told her "You're chesty" and there was a moment of hilarity because what Karen thought he meant and what he really meant were not the same thing.
Also when we got back to the hotel, we got on the lift and pressed "3" the elevator started bouncing, dropped what we thought was a foot or two. Then the elevator said something (it's one of those talkie types), the doors opened, and we were in the BASEMENT. Stupidly, we took it back to the 3rd floor anyway whilst it made horrific noises. I called in and reported it. An hour later (late at night) I heard pounding so they did something to it.
Rules is closed (!!!) through the 29th. I am shocked and appalled and there appear to be no open times through our departure date. I am crushed.
The rooms here are unspeakably small by any reasonable standard though, as I've note no drawers nor even a shelf to put my bathroom items on. The suitcase I am living out of takes half the floor and the shower has no water pressure.
Woke up, ate at the hotel, and the breakfast buffet is quite nice -- almost as good as the Rembrandt's. Today we went to Portobello Road market and walked up and down it. We went much further than I ever had been before. If you walk all the way through you get to Ladbroke Grove tube stop on the H&C. We walked back to Notting Hill Gate nonetheless because Karen was looking for something. She didn't find it, though she did get her son some stuff.
We then took the tube to Marble Arch and walked down Oxford Street, including into Selfridge's which was swamped to the gills. They broke a record selling 1 million pounds in one day and that was on the front page of the paper along with news about Eartha Kitt. Sad, that. Anyway, no purchases there either. We passed the Playboy Store where Karen bought her some something as well. Then I went to Foyle's and personally did my part to improve the British economy. After that it was on to Forbidden Planet. The Photographer's Gallery moved, which was to be our next stop so that was cancelled for the day and we, at Karen's request, went to the madhouse that was Harrod's. Mom asked for biscuits but they had nothing this time, so she looses out.
The weather here has been fridgidly cold. Hasn't hit 40F yet today. Windy, too. "Feels like 29" according to the local weather. I must agree. But it's sunny and dry. So it is pleasant. Anyway, walked from Harrod's over to M&S Express and bought some fresh Raspberries. Yummy. Then found out Rules was closed so am trying to plan what's next.
This afternoon the fixed the phone in my room. I kept wondering why I couldn't use it. It turns out I am not an idiot, but theat they didn't turn it on. And the clock in my room (not changeable by the user) is 20m fast as it turns out.
Also when we got back to the hotel, we got on the lift and pressed "3" the elevator started bouncing, dropped what we thought was a foot or two. Then the elevator said something (it's one of those talkie types), the doors opened, and we were in the BASEMENT. Stupidly, we took it back to the 3rd floor anyway whilst it made horrific noises. I called in and reported it. An hour later (late at night) I heard pounding so they did something to it.
Rules is closed (!!!) through the 29th. I am shocked and appalled and there appear to be no open times through our departure date. I am crushed.
The rooms here are unspeakably small by any reasonable standard though, as I've note no drawers nor even a shelf to put my bathroom items on. The suitcase I am living out of takes half the floor and the shower has no water pressure.
Woke up, ate at the hotel, and the breakfast buffet is quite nice -- almost as good as the Rembrandt's. Today we went to Portobello Road market and walked up and down it. We went much further than I ever had been before. If you walk all the way through you get to Ladbroke Grove tube stop on the H&C. We walked back to Notting Hill Gate nonetheless because Karen was looking for something. She didn't find it, though she did get her son some stuff.
We then took the tube to Marble Arch and walked down Oxford Street, including into Selfridge's which was swamped to the gills. They broke a record selling 1 million pounds in one day and that was on the front page of the paper along with news about Eartha Kitt. Sad, that. Anyway, no purchases there either. We passed the Playboy Store where Karen bought her some something as well. Then I went to Foyle's and personally did my part to improve the British economy. After that it was on to Forbidden Planet. The Photographer's Gallery moved, which was to be our next stop so that was cancelled for the day and we, at Karen's request, went to the madhouse that was Harrod's. Mom asked for biscuits but they had nothing this time, so she looses out.
The weather here has been fridgidly cold. Hasn't hit 40F yet today. Windy, too. "Feels like 29" according to the local weather. I must agree. But it's sunny and dry. So it is pleasant. Anyway, walked from Harrod's over to M&S Express and bought some fresh Raspberries. Yummy. Then found out Rules was closed so am trying to plan what's next.
This afternoon the fixed the phone in my room. I kept wondering why I couldn't use it. It turns out I am not an idiot, but theat they didn't turn it on. And the clock in my room (not changeable by the user) is 20m fast as it turns out.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Trip to England Day1 and 2
Left my house Christmas Day night. Karen arrived at the same time the taxi did, and we were at the airport way too early (her request) so we could go the lounge. I warned her the MIA lounge is a shared lounge and not so great. She now agrees. We boarded on time and our plane left 10 minutes early. Yeah, early. In the sky before we were supposed to even leave the gate. The plane was pretty damned empty. Virgin Atlantic on a free ticket is awesome because, well, it was free. The plane was way too hot which made it hard to sleep. We had lie flat beds which included a set of custom black pyjamas and a duvet. You can also use the bed as two chairs so you can have a guest dine with you. We did that too. The seating configuration is odd in upper class as the seats are at 45 degree angles to the window as opposed to lining up with them.
We arrived Heathrow on-time (the next day, Boxing Day), taxied around the runway for quite a bit, and finally were at the gate right on schedule which wasn't bad considering nearly 20 minutes of taxiing. We breezed through passport control, waving our boarding passes to sneak into the FastTrack lane. Our bags were among the first off, and moments later we were walking towards the Heathrow Express station. On board, we had our tickets checked -- they were prepurchased on-line, though as it turns out there is no savings in doing so. And in fifteen minutes we were in a totally deserted Paddington station. Except for HEX, it was closed for boxing day, so there was nobody there and no queue for taxis. Not long after we were at the hotel.
I went to check in and they asked for my passport. I pulled it out, only the spot in my backpack was empty. No show tickets, no plane tickets, no hotel reservations, no passport, no money. Nothing. No idea what cab we came in and so I called the US Embassy to get help in replacing the passport which I had given up. The UK office is closed on boxing day but says you must show up the next business day (Monday) with a police report and proof of citizenship. I email mom hoping to get it. I try calling HEX and asking for help but got none. Nearly an hour later, the front desk calls and asks if I'm the gentleman who lost the passport. The fare in the back of the cab found it and turned it over the driver. Everything was intact.
With that delay out of the way we decided to spend the day at the zoo. It was very cold -- never hit 42 -- and windy so that made it a bit less the fun but we happened to be there as they were feeding critters, so that was fun. We had some spare time so took a quick jaunt on the London Eye. After that back to the hotel for warmer clothes.
We went to Belgo Centrall for dinner (it's in Covent Garden) and then walked back to Picadilly Circus tube for the ride home. Our hotel is near Gloucester Road. We also stopped at Tesco Express for water and chocolate plus I got some raspberries. We also, whilst at Picadilly circus, stopped into Boots for Karen to get some cough medicine.
We arrived Heathrow on-time (the next day, Boxing Day), taxied around the runway for quite a bit, and finally were at the gate right on schedule which wasn't bad considering nearly 20 minutes of taxiing. We breezed through passport control, waving our boarding passes to sneak into the FastTrack lane. Our bags were among the first off, and moments later we were walking towards the Heathrow Express station. On board, we had our tickets checked -- they were prepurchased on-line, though as it turns out there is no savings in doing so. And in fifteen minutes we were in a totally deserted Paddington station. Except for HEX, it was closed for boxing day, so there was nobody there and no queue for taxis. Not long after we were at the hotel.
I went to check in and they asked for my passport. I pulled it out, only the spot in my backpack was empty. No show tickets, no plane tickets, no hotel reservations, no passport, no money. Nothing. No idea what cab we came in and so I called the US Embassy to get help in replacing the passport which I had given up. The UK office is closed on boxing day but says you must show up the next business day (Monday) with a police report and proof of citizenship. I email mom hoping to get it. I try calling HEX and asking for help but got none. Nearly an hour later, the front desk calls and asks if I'm the gentleman who lost the passport. The fare in the back of the cab found it and turned it over the driver. Everything was intact.
With that delay out of the way we decided to spend the day at the zoo. It was very cold -- never hit 42 -- and windy so that made it a bit less the fun but we happened to be there as they were feeding critters, so that was fun. We had some spare time so took a quick jaunt on the London Eye. After that back to the hotel for warmer clothes.
We went to Belgo Centrall for dinner (it's in Covent Garden) and then walked back to Picadilly Circus tube for the ride home. Our hotel is near Gloucester Road. We also stopped at Tesco Express for water and chocolate plus I got some raspberries. We also, whilst at Picadilly circus, stopped into Boots for Karen to get some cough medicine.
Monday, December 22, 2008
American Airlines Insanity
You know, I've never been a big fan of them going back to a long-ago bad experience. But once I met Murph, I backed off trashing them in public because, well, Murph's my bud and bad-mouthing his employer is bad for his job security.
But I have to let 'em have it. You all remember my tale of my lost luggage. The one where my luggage showed up on the wrong day: after my important meeting with the Department of Homeland Security? You remember I explained how they told me what I could (and couldn't) buy and then I went and bought some stuff. I filed the claim and they denied to pay it. I wrote back because, of course, I assumed they didn't understand. I wrote both the baggage department *AND* the customer service people in Dallas.
Murph, next time you have a union meeting let 'em know that it's reasons like this people don't like American Airlines. It's not the people. It's the idiot bureaucrats running it. I asked American to do the right thing.
Here's their FINAL response:
December 22, 2008
Yeah, go ahead everyone. Pay them $15 to check a bag and good luck when you lose it. This is why I prefer Delta. I've only had a half-dozen lost bags ever and every time I've either been provided with basic necessities if it's been more then a few hours or been given recompense of a full (or partial) amount. Delta came through twice and Eastern (remember them?) once.
I'm off to London for a week with Karen using FF miles -- using Continental Miles but flying on Virgin. Yay me.
But I have to let 'em have it. You all remember my tale of my lost luggage. The one where my luggage showed up on the wrong day: after my important meeting with the Department of Homeland Security? You remember I explained how they told me what I could (and couldn't) buy and then I went and bought some stuff. I filed the claim and they denied to pay it. I wrote back because, of course, I assumed they didn't understand. I wrote both the baggage department *AND* the customer service people in Dallas.
Murph, next time you have a union meeting let 'em know that it's reasons like this people don't like American Airlines. It's not the people. It's the idiot bureaucrats running it. I asked American to do the right thing.
Here's their FINAL response:
December 22, 2008
Dear Mr. Seiden:
A careful review has been accomplished of the entire file and reports which have been obtained concerning your delayed baggage. We wish things had worked out differently and can understand your perseverance in this matter.
We try to avoid disagreements and do our best to clearly explain our position. When applicable, compensation is proffered within our policy guidelines, but we must decline to offer compensation in those situations which do not fall within our compensation guidelines.
Although we understand that you don't agree with our decision, it is based on sound business practices, as well as our past experience. I am sorry to disappoint you further.
Sincerely,
Customer Relations
American Airlines
This is an "outgoing only" email address. If you 'reply' to this message by simply selecting the reply button, we will not receive your additional comments.
So they lose my bags, tell me to go buy some basic necessities which they will pay for as long as I follow their guidelines and submit itemized receipts for reasonable expenses, and then when I follow their exact instructions they tell me it's not within their policy guidelines?Yeah, go ahead everyone. Pay them $15 to check a bag and good luck when you lose it. This is why I prefer Delta. I've only had a half-dozen lost bags ever and every time I've either been provided with basic necessities if it's been more then a few hours or been given recompense of a full (or partial) amount. Delta came through twice and Eastern (remember them?) once.
I'm off to London for a week with Karen using FF miles -- using Continental Miles but flying on Virgin. Yay me.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Oh what a day....
As if.
Anyway, last night I finally was able to fix a long-established irritant on my Mac. There's an ACL error that has always shown up in my monthly disk-check feature. All articles say it's harmless and just an irritant. However it makes DiskUtility take an hour to run instead of 3 or 4 minutes because I had over 4,000 files with that error and it ballooned my error log to 8.4MB! So, I keep thinking. A program I found called MacPilot came to the rescue: a new version has a repair ACL feature. You can ONLY use it on your directory -- never use this feature on a system directory. Anyway, I tested it on one directory and it appeared to work. I ran it on my entire ~/home folder and voila! Everything was fixed except QuickTime and DiskUtility. It now runs in normal time and life is good.
I got a haircut today in celebration of the Kwanzaa holiday. To hell with you if you don't believe me.
Scooter is back home in a small box. This is upsetting to me. I need to do something, but I can't. I thought I'd be able to put her somewhere but I can't quite do it. It came with a five stages of grief pamphlet designed for pet owners.
I decided, today, who's going in our next round of layoffs at work. Sometimes you get lucky and some employee does something that makes your decision for you. We are still going to wait until mid-January to do it though. A batch of three is next. I'm also going to try and replace some of our other employees who think being lazy is okay when I'm not looking. Except I'm always looking and they just are too dumb to know.
Vacation in six days. I have a passport. I am not packed but will start packing based on a weather report on Monday.
I have to find entertainment for tomorrow. I have nothing to do. It was going to be a second day of Adrian but apparently he's grocery shopping. Perhaps I'll go to the mall. That should kill a few hours just looking for somewhere to park.
Anyway, last night I finally was able to fix a long-established irritant on my Mac. There's an ACL error that has always shown up in my monthly disk-check feature. All articles say it's harmless and just an irritant. However it makes DiskUtility take an hour to run instead of 3 or 4 minutes because I had over 4,000 files with that error and it ballooned my error log to 8.4MB! So, I keep thinking. A program I found called MacPilot came to the rescue: a new version has a repair ACL feature. You can ONLY use it on your directory -- never use this feature on a system directory. Anyway, I tested it on one directory and it appeared to work. I ran it on my entire ~/home folder and voila! Everything was fixed except QuickTime and DiskUtility. It now runs in normal time and life is good.
I got a haircut today in celebration of the Kwanzaa holiday. To hell with you if you don't believe me.
Scooter is back home in a small box. This is upsetting to me. I need to do something, but I can't. I thought I'd be able to put her somewhere but I can't quite do it. It came with a five stages of grief pamphlet designed for pet owners.
- Denial. That's a river in Egypt. Sadly, there wasn't even time for me to have this stage.
- Anger. I started here because the process took too long while she was suffering. And it talks about feeling of betrayal because some people are insensitive or don't show appropriate caring while you're suffering. Yeah, boy do I ever get that.
- Guilt/Bargaining: Do I have some? Yes. Forever. When Scooter first got sick some time ago, maybe a year, if we had thought to take an MRI then we might have known and been able to do something. But everyone thought it was the thyroid -- though I kept asking why it was affecting her hindquarter. I'm mad I didn't fight harder but I'm not a doctor so how could I know.
- Depression. Yes. Plenty of it.
- Acceptance. I don't get this because I accepted it, knew it was coming, and all that rot. It doesn't mean I like it. But there's no way to not accept it. That's what number four is for.
I decided, today, who's going in our next round of layoffs at work. Sometimes you get lucky and some employee does something that makes your decision for you. We are still going to wait until mid-January to do it though. A batch of three is next. I'm also going to try and replace some of our other employees who think being lazy is okay when I'm not looking. Except I'm always looking and they just are too dumb to know.
Vacation in six days. I have a passport. I am not packed but will start packing based on a weather report on Monday.
I have to find entertainment for tomorrow. I have nothing to do. It was going to be a second day of Adrian but apparently he's grocery shopping. Perhaps I'll go to the mall. That should kill a few hours just looking for somewhere to park.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Randomness Part Neuf
As I write this, on the HAMMERSMITH & CITY LINE: Minor delays are occurring due to staff shortages. I love Tube widgets. I mean, it's not like I'm going to be on it today, but still. And I have BART widgets too: SF Airport train 1 min, 15 min, 30 min. I won't be on that today either. Normal people have fun on their computer. I play with subway stuff. I am so lame.
I printed and hung an 8x10 photo of scooter by my front door last night. So I guess I'm making progress. All of her stuff except a collection of bizzy-balls have been sent to the various people who expressed interest. The pet sitter got the heavy stuff. Liz, Maury, Mom, and Suzie-Q all got stuff too.
I made a steak for dinner tonight. My driveway was pressure cleaned twice. I refused to pay for Wednesday's job because it was so crappy. Thursday's job is adequate. We'll have to see what he thinks I ought to pay before I do so.
I signed the formal affidavit in the identity theft case. Just so you know.
I left yet another messages for the attorney handling my injury case but he hasn't called me back yet. I will continue to try.
The AC people are due tomorrow AM so I'll be late for work. No big deal but my line is clogged again. So it needs to be blown out.
Adrian has promised to skate with me this Sunday so I am excited about that -- I'm tired of being bored. He's going to the game with me too. I'm supposed to meet Karen for dinner before the game so I gotta' organize that.
I have plans starting Christmas afternoon through New Year's Day. I'm telling anyone what they are. You get to know when I come back. I'm leaving town, it'll be cold, and the air/hotel are fundamentally free -- paid for with miles. Just taxes. This was all Karen's doing. I am excited.
I printed and hung an 8x10 photo of scooter by my front door last night. So I guess I'm making progress. All of her stuff except a collection of bizzy-balls have been sent to the various people who expressed interest. The pet sitter got the heavy stuff. Liz, Maury, Mom, and Suzie-Q all got stuff too.
I made a steak for dinner tonight. My driveway was pressure cleaned twice. I refused to pay for Wednesday's job because it was so crappy. Thursday's job is adequate. We'll have to see what he thinks I ought to pay before I do so.
I signed the formal affidavit in the identity theft case. Just so you know.
I left yet another messages for the attorney handling my injury case but he hasn't called me back yet. I will continue to try.
The AC people are due tomorrow AM so I'll be late for work. No big deal but my line is clogged again. So it needs to be blown out.
Adrian has promised to skate with me this Sunday so I am excited about that -- I'm tired of being bored. He's going to the game with me too. I'm supposed to meet Karen for dinner before the game so I gotta' organize that.
I have plans starting Christmas afternoon through New Year's Day. I'm telling anyone what they are. You get to know when I come back. I'm leaving town, it'll be cold, and the air/hotel are fundamentally free -- paid for with miles. Just taxes. This was all Karen's doing. I am excited.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Identity Theft (Final Chapter)
Just a bit more. I spoke to the detective in question. I can't really say too much. The person arrested IS a bank employee at BankAtlantic -- as I suspected. He had the names and details of a LOT of people. He was captured with the help of BankAtlantic (yay) and many months ago, you may remember I posted, and then redacted a post saying they had a voice recording of the guy opening an account in my name. Well they do still have that.
I have let BankAmerica know the guy's in jail and given them the case number and direct number to the detective.
I gave a sworn statement today and affirmed my intent to cooperate with any prosecution. The US Secret Service has been involved.
I hope there is a big, fat, hairy, biker dude in prison who thinks this guy has a cute ass. That would be PROPER justice.
THERE WILL BE NO FURTHER INFORMATION POSTED. This is for the integrity of the case. It could be well over a year before we find the disposition of what happens next. I have scanned the names of people arrested in Fort Lauderdale but this guy hasn't shown up yet. When he does, you're going to see a link :)
I have let BankAmerica know the guy's in jail and given them the case number and direct number to the detective.
I gave a sworn statement today and affirmed my intent to cooperate with any prosecution. The US Secret Service has been involved.
I hope there is a big, fat, hairy, biker dude in prison who thinks this guy has a cute ass. That would be PROPER justice.
THERE WILL BE NO FURTHER INFORMATION POSTED. This is for the integrity of the case. It could be well over a year before we find the disposition of what happens next. I have scanned the names of people arrested in Fort Lauderdale but this guy hasn't shown up yet. When he does, you're going to see a link :)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Breaking News On Identity Theft
I came home to a phone message from a South Florida police agency (to be named later) that someone has been arrested with oodles of my personal information and asking if I've been the victim of Identity Theft. I missed the detective in question but I left him a detailed voice mail and told him to call me at work tomorrow -- and I indicated I will gladly testify against this SOB. Sadly, it's apparent local agencies do not share information.
Also, my Official Vet (as opposed to the emergency vet) sent me a card. It was signed with nice messages from his entire staff. They sent along this poem (author unknown):
Also, my Official Vet (as opposed to the emergency vet) sent me a card. It was signed with nice messages from his entire staff. They sent along this poem (author unknown):
Just this side of heaven is a place called The Rainbow Bridge
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to the Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross The Rainbow Bridge together....
I also went to a soiree at my bank. Met lots of interesting people, ate, and came home thereafter. And to Beep: feel better. Sorry you're sick.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Today's Randomness
I came home today, shut the door quickly as I've done for many years to keep the cat from getting out, and was like suddenly "oh, damn." More leaky eyes.
Then, I opened my mail and there was a nice sympathy card from the vet. Not a form card either. She wrote a personal message. Which made me sadder.
I've also returned to the exercise machine. Today was day 3 in a row. I'm limited in how long I can last, due to my previously mentioned (I think) knee injury from a few weeks ago when I fell. The knee is definitely much better than it was. It's a better colour and is scabbing over nicely.
Last night Johnny B and Liz came over (first time visitors) and collected some of Scooter's belongings for their furry critters. I also sent a box of stuff to Maury that she had asked for. The pile is still big. The pet sitter is coming Thursday to return my keys and collect more stuff. The rest is off to SuzieQ. Except the thyroid meds which I sent to mom for her cat.
Then, I opened my mail and there was a nice sympathy card from the vet. Not a form card either. She wrote a personal message. Which made me sadder.
I've also returned to the exercise machine. Today was day 3 in a row. I'm limited in how long I can last, due to my previously mentioned (I think) knee injury from a few weeks ago when I fell. The knee is definitely much better than it was. It's a better colour and is scabbing over nicely.
Last night Johnny B and Liz came over (first time visitors) and collected some of Scooter's belongings for their furry critters. I also sent a box of stuff to Maury that she had asked for. The pile is still big. The pet sitter is coming Thursday to return my keys and collect more stuff. The rest is off to SuzieQ. Except the thyroid meds which I sent to mom for her cat.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Imagine.
- Imagine (c) COPYRIGHT John Lennon. All Rights Reserved
Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace...You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as oneImagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one- John Lennon was assassinated on this date in 1980 outside the Dakota with four bullets of five shot going into his back. This has been my favourite song of all time since the day I first heard it. It's a great concept but so many people just don't get it. It's an anthem of peace, of hope, of the future. Imagine.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Two Days On
Let's start with something "normal" -- this was sent to me by my friend Dan (he's a musician). It's some kid singing a cover the Police's Roxanne. He's about 13, has a voice that will blow you away and plays both the guitar and drums. Phenomenal. And he's even having a good time.
In other news, I went to Publix again today, where shopping is sometimes a pleasure but not right at the moment. The pet aisle will, apparently, be a problem for me for awhile. I'm still unbearably sad. Had a number of people check up on me today via email -- a few by phone. And got stood up today for breakfast which pissed me off. Whilst waiting I watched an old, but new to me, 30th Anniversary of Star Trek special on BioHD. Interesting stuff. Eventually I realized I had been stood up, so I went to the mall for a while to kill time. It was early, so it wasn't too crowded.
A number of people are interested in some of Scooter's stuff so that'll be done by Friday. A few things are going to some locals if they pick 'em up in time, and then Susie-Q is getting any leftovers. I'll have to ship it truck line probably. That'll be loads of fun.
And I'm going to have to do something in my kitchen because it keeps reminding me of her. I'll figure that out soon. It's the spot by the door where her food used to be that gets me.
I made burgers for dinner, dropped some on the floor and left it. I went and ate my burgers and was momentarily surprised when I came back. It was still there and the cat hadn't eaten it. Oh, right. Damn.
When I roll over in bed, I still feel to make sure she's not there. That'll take time to.
I was going to read today, but I just screwed around on the computer -- IM with a few people and played with StumbleUpon -- and then this afternoon, I watched the Dolphins game. Oh, and while not normally a Gator fan, I am so glad they beat 'bama. DIE SABAN DIE! And GO BEARS for the Emerald Bowl. That concludes today's football discussion.
The Panthers are sucking ass. But as long as Alan Cohen owns it and Yormark is there, that will never change. I have learned to accept failure from my hockey team.
In other news, I went to Publix again today, where shopping is sometimes a pleasure but not right at the moment. The pet aisle will, apparently, be a problem for me for awhile. I'm still unbearably sad. Had a number of people check up on me today via email -- a few by phone. And got stood up today for breakfast which pissed me off. Whilst waiting I watched an old, but new to me, 30th Anniversary of Star Trek special on BioHD. Interesting stuff. Eventually I realized I had been stood up, so I went to the mall for a while to kill time. It was early, so it wasn't too crowded.
A number of people are interested in some of Scooter's stuff so that'll be done by Friday. A few things are going to some locals if they pick 'em up in time, and then Susie-Q is getting any leftovers. I'll have to ship it truck line probably. That'll be loads of fun.
And I'm going to have to do something in my kitchen because it keeps reminding me of her. I'll figure that out soon. It's the spot by the door where her food used to be that gets me.
I made burgers for dinner, dropped some on the floor and left it. I went and ate my burgers and was momentarily surprised when I came back. It was still there and the cat hadn't eaten it. Oh, right. Damn.
When I roll over in bed, I still feel to make sure she's not there. That'll take time to.
I was going to read today, but I just screwed around on the computer -- IM with a few people and played with StumbleUpon -- and then this afternoon, I watched the Dolphins game. Oh, and while not normally a Gator fan, I am so glad they beat 'bama. DIE SABAN DIE! And GO BEARS for the Emerald Bowl. That concludes today's football discussion.
The Panthers are sucking ass. But as long as Alan Cohen owns it and Yormark is there, that will never change. I have learned to accept failure from my hockey team.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
The Morning After
I'm up. I tried to make it a normal morning. I went to the dry cleaner to pick up stuff. I went to the post office. I went to Starbucks. I got gas for my case. All of that was no problem.
I had to drive by the vet's office. It's on the way to/from most of my errands. That caused a little pang. But what was really and unexpectedly hard, was going to the grocery store. The pet food aisle caused a reaction. Crying in a supermarket while shopping is embarrassing especially when you run into a neighbour. It wasn't too noticeable, though. Just runny eyes and sniffles. I told him it was "allergies" and I forgot to take my medicine. He was like "yeah, I know what it's like" so that went away quickly.
Last night, I tool all of Scooter's stuff and carefully moved it into the garage. Except the medicine which is still in the fridge. All the mats, beds, bowls, treats, rugs, toys, houses, stairs, food, games, art. Everything. I am keeping one set of bizzy-balls -- her favourite toy. I picked the most chewed-up nasty ones to keep. I really do hope some of you reading this will consider finding a home for some of this stuff -- I've got tons of food (wet and dry) plus all the items listed above. The medicines and vitamin supplements are very expensive and throwing them away would be a sin.
Grief makes you do weird things. Last night, I suddenly decided that I needed to remodel my house. In the living room, I moved the Vasse tower over by the curio case, moved the fake plant to where the Vasse tower was. I took the metal bird and put it in the guest bathroom where the litter box was and put a new rug in place of the kitty shaped rug in there. I took the terra-cotta coloured box from my office and put it in my bedroom in the corner where one of the cat houses was.
The big thing is, I moved my bed. That huge platform bed that required three people to bring up and install. I moved it all by myself about 1 foot to the left. I'm not sure how I did it, but I did. I just decided it need to be moved. And I did. I didn't even hurt myself, though I don't know how I managed to avoid it. It's a few hundred pounds.
Most of the changes won't be noticeable to anyone except the kitchen. Without all of the Scooter stuff it looks much emptier. I walk in and am sad. Every time. It doesn't look the same.
I think I'm going to try and meet my hockey friends for dinner tonight and go to the game. I'm not sure if I'll make it, but I might try. If I stay home, I know it'll be hard.
I want to thank a few people who've been especially helpful. Karen who called several times to check up on me -- she tried to help me, feed me, etc but I so didn't want it. But I appreciate her efforts. Also to Beep who tried repeatedly (and unsuccesfully) to distract me from my thoughts. Special thanks to Bart and Tim who really GET it -- I can tell from their heartfelt emails. I want to thank the online community many of whom have written and/or posted their support in various places. I'm not sure what to make of my friends who didn't say anything: there were quite a few of those, and I figured they'd at least say "I'm sorry" or something.
Erin's invited me over today, so I might go lay on her couch and watch football with her. I'll see if it can keep me distracted. (She's laid up with a bad ankle so we can be miserable together, just for different reasons.)
In other news, and this goes back a month, but I'm just now revealing it because I've been too bothered by other things to mention this, me and Austri are over. That's not bad news. Sad yes, but bad no. It was a long time coming and I'm the one who ended it. There's no reason to get into the why's and wherefore's or whose fault it was. So if I don't talk about her much anymore, you'll know why. And no, I don't want to talk about it. I'm okay with it.
I had to drive by the vet's office. It's on the way to/from most of my errands. That caused a little pang. But what was really and unexpectedly hard, was going to the grocery store. The pet food aisle caused a reaction. Crying in a supermarket while shopping is embarrassing especially when you run into a neighbour. It wasn't too noticeable, though. Just runny eyes and sniffles. I told him it was "allergies" and I forgot to take my medicine. He was like "yeah, I know what it's like" so that went away quickly.
Last night, I tool all of Scooter's stuff and carefully moved it into the garage. Except the medicine which is still in the fridge. All the mats, beds, bowls, treats, rugs, toys, houses, stairs, food, games, art. Everything. I am keeping one set of bizzy-balls -- her favourite toy. I picked the most chewed-up nasty ones to keep. I really do hope some of you reading this will consider finding a home for some of this stuff -- I've got tons of food (wet and dry) plus all the items listed above. The medicines and vitamin supplements are very expensive and throwing them away would be a sin.
Grief makes you do weird things. Last night, I suddenly decided that I needed to remodel my house. In the living room, I moved the Vasse tower over by the curio case, moved the fake plant to where the Vasse tower was. I took the metal bird and put it in the guest bathroom where the litter box was and put a new rug in place of the kitty shaped rug in there. I took the terra-cotta coloured box from my office and put it in my bedroom in the corner where one of the cat houses was.
The big thing is, I moved my bed. That huge platform bed that required three people to bring up and install. I moved it all by myself about 1 foot to the left. I'm not sure how I did it, but I did. I just decided it need to be moved. And I did. I didn't even hurt myself, though I don't know how I managed to avoid it. It's a few hundred pounds.
Most of the changes won't be noticeable to anyone except the kitchen. Without all of the Scooter stuff it looks much emptier. I walk in and am sad. Every time. It doesn't look the same.
I think I'm going to try and meet my hockey friends for dinner tonight and go to the game. I'm not sure if I'll make it, but I might try. If I stay home, I know it'll be hard.
I want to thank a few people who've been especially helpful. Karen who called several times to check up on me -- she tried to help me, feed me, etc but I so didn't want it. But I appreciate her efforts. Also to Beep who tried repeatedly (and unsuccesfully) to distract me from my thoughts. Special thanks to Bart and Tim who really GET it -- I can tell from their heartfelt emails. I want to thank the online community many of whom have written and/or posted their support in various places. I'm not sure what to make of my friends who didn't say anything: there were quite a few of those, and I figured they'd at least say "I'm sorry" or something.
Erin's invited me over today, so I might go lay on her couch and watch football with her. I'll see if it can keep me distracted. (She's laid up with a bad ankle so we can be miserable together, just for different reasons.)
In other news, and this goes back a month, but I'm just now revealing it because I've been too bothered by other things to mention this, me and Austri are over. That's not bad news. Sad yes, but bad no. It was a long time coming and I'm the one who ended it. There's no reason to get into the why's and wherefore's or whose fault it was. So if I don't talk about her much anymore, you'll know why. And no, I don't want to talk about it. I'm okay with it.
Friday, December 5, 2008
In Pace Requiscat Scooter
It’s just past 1am Friday and I’m starting to write this before I actually send it out. As many of you know, I visited Scooter Wednesday 3 December. I wrote about it and most of the other visits in my blog. During that visit, Scooter told me it was time, but I didn’t say anything to anyone because I was waiting for final word to make sure. Today (Thursday), at a business dinner, my mobile phone rang with a call from my vet.
The tumour doesn’t need a biopsy. It’s malignant and there are signs it’s spreading. There is no surgical option, there is no chemotherapy option, and there is no radiation option. Sadly, time’s up. She’s in pain and it’s only going to get much worse, quickly.
I asked the doctor if we could bring Scooter home for her final moments. Normally the doctor doesn’t do that, but she would have been willing for me as a special favour except, and I agree with her, that moving Scooter would be a very cruel thing to do, as it’s very painful for her to be moved. Which is why, you will recollect, she couldn’t have the MRI in Fort Lauderdale and we had to sneak her into a people MRI centre that was closer. She just hurts too much where the tumour is pressing into her nerves.
Because of where I was when I received the call (Sunrise) there was no way for me to make it back in time to do it today (Thursday) – which probably would have been better instead of making Scooter wait 18 hours more. But I really thought I should be with her.
So, later today (Friday), after my doctor’s appointment (GI), I will go to the vet’s office and meet the vet. I didn’t want to tell anyone in advance, but I had to tell Dad because I’m not going to be at work Friday except for a few moments to change my voice mail, set my email away message and such, so there was no getting around that. Dad was remarkably understanding for a change.
Scooter has been with me since about 1987 (I’m thinking late 1987) when I was in school, and when I first got her – or more accurately when she moved in and adopted me -- she was between 1 and 2 years old. That’s how me and her primary vet arrived at her age. Her regular vet confirms this analysis and she’s been seeing the same vet (barring the trips to the emergency vet) since day one.
This has been really hard on me. Scooter is my best friend. I love her more than anyone. I’d find this a lot easier to do to a person than to my cat. If you’re a pet owner, you get this. I realize I'm not the only one to go through this, of course, but she's been part of my life for over half of it, so this hurts. I decided some years ago that Scooter would be my last pet, and I’m certainly not planning on changing that, so don't ask.
I have a large number of cat items that would be useful to any cat owners. I will ship them to you free of charge but I really need them out of here quickly, because looking at them makes me too sad. I have beds, blankets, medicines (prescription and regular), food, treats, houses, litter, litter boxes, carriers, and tons of toys. If you’re interested you need to contact me via e-mail immediately. It's all getting binned within 5 days and that would be a terrible waste. Make your cat happy and contact me via e-mail. I just can't look at it. (Having just returned, walked in and seen her bed, I realize this decision is the right one.)
I know I did everything that could be done, and more than most people would do. This wasn’t ever about the money and charging those thousands of dollars to my credit cards was never even a consideration. I’d have spent all my money if she could be saved and lived a happy, longer life. Quite frankly, I’d much rather be dead right now than her: I'd make the trade. But don’t worry, I’m not planning on doing anything like that but I am very depressed now. This hurts more than I can explain. I’m dying inside.
I really don’t want to be there for this, but I will. I couldn’t do that to her -- leave her alone at the end. I’m going to bring her two more treats (though I'm not sure if she can have them) and her brush. I will brush and cry the whole time. I will be a wreck after so please don’t call.
All that stuff above was written last night (or early this morning) because I couldn't sleep. It’s now 2:36pm and I’m back. It’s done. I tried really hard not to totally collapse. I failed. This was definitely the hardest thing I ever had to do. I went in, and did all the paperwork because I knew I wasn't hanging around after to do it. I was doing okay -- just leaky eyes -- until they gave me a choice of urns to select. That’s when I started to really cry.
I went back and visited Scooter in her holding cell. The IVs an tubes were all removed. The original plan was to take one last photo of me and kitty as I'd brought my camera, but neither one of us was in any shape to have a photo. So there isn’t one so you'll have to make do with what I've got -- a selection is now on Flickr. I offered her a last Petrodex, but she didn’t even look at it. I brushed her, petted her. She knew. She knew I knew. She wasn't mad at me.
After brushing her, they picked her up, along with all her bedding as it was the safest way to move her. I would have carried her, except at the point I was in pretty bad shape. They kept asking if I was sure I could do this. The answer was no, but I said “I’m going to try.” We went to one of the interview rooms where they meet new patients for the first time. Some of the nurses actually were sad too.
In the room, I totally broke down and wailed “I can’t do this” while the tears and snot ran, but I still held on to Scooter. The vet explained there would be a pink injection and then a yellow one (I might have that in the wrong order). If I could have spoken, I’d have asked for my own set.
It didn’t take 90 seconds. They put in the pink one and waited about 60 seconds – that’s just a muscle relaxant. Then the yellow one, and it’s over. “She’s gone,” the vet said after checking with her stethoscope. Scooter never closed her eyes the whole time and I never let go. I didn't let got for a few seconds (it might have been 1 or might have been 100 -- time was frozen). Then I ran out the door and drove home. I hate life right now. I miss her so much. I am dead inside.
In Pace Requiscat.
The tumour doesn’t need a biopsy. It’s malignant and there are signs it’s spreading. There is no surgical option, there is no chemotherapy option, and there is no radiation option. Sadly, time’s up. She’s in pain and it’s only going to get much worse, quickly.
I asked the doctor if we could bring Scooter home for her final moments. Normally the doctor doesn’t do that, but she would have been willing for me as a special favour except, and I agree with her, that moving Scooter would be a very cruel thing to do, as it’s very painful for her to be moved. Which is why, you will recollect, she couldn’t have the MRI in Fort Lauderdale and we had to sneak her into a people MRI centre that was closer. She just hurts too much where the tumour is pressing into her nerves.
Because of where I was when I received the call (Sunrise) there was no way for me to make it back in time to do it today (Thursday) – which probably would have been better instead of making Scooter wait 18 hours more. But I really thought I should be with her.
So, later today (Friday), after my doctor’s appointment (GI), I will go to the vet’s office and meet the vet. I didn’t want to tell anyone in advance, but I had to tell Dad because I’m not going to be at work Friday except for a few moments to change my voice mail, set my email away message and such, so there was no getting around that. Dad was remarkably understanding for a change.
Scooter has been with me since about 1987 (I’m thinking late 1987) when I was in school, and when I first got her – or more accurately when she moved in and adopted me -- she was between 1 and 2 years old. That’s how me and her primary vet arrived at her age. Her regular vet confirms this analysis and she’s been seeing the same vet (barring the trips to the emergency vet) since day one.
This has been really hard on me. Scooter is my best friend. I love her more than anyone. I’d find this a lot easier to do to a person than to my cat. If you’re a pet owner, you get this. I realize I'm not the only one to go through this, of course, but she's been part of my life for over half of it, so this hurts. I decided some years ago that Scooter would be my last pet, and I’m certainly not planning on changing that, so don't ask.
I have a large number of cat items that would be useful to any cat owners. I will ship them to you free of charge but I really need them out of here quickly, because looking at them makes me too sad. I have beds, blankets, medicines (prescription and regular), food, treats, houses, litter, litter boxes, carriers, and tons of toys. If you’re interested you need to contact me via e-mail immediately. It's all getting binned within 5 days and that would be a terrible waste. Make your cat happy and contact me via e-mail. I just can't look at it. (Having just returned, walked in and seen her bed, I realize this decision is the right one.)
I know I did everything that could be done, and more than most people would do. This wasn’t ever about the money and charging those thousands of dollars to my credit cards was never even a consideration. I’d have spent all my money if she could be saved and lived a happy, longer life. Quite frankly, I’d much rather be dead right now than her: I'd make the trade. But don’t worry, I’m not planning on doing anything like that but I am very depressed now. This hurts more than I can explain. I’m dying inside.
I really don’t want to be there for this, but I will. I couldn’t do that to her -- leave her alone at the end. I’m going to bring her two more treats (though I'm not sure if she can have them) and her brush. I will brush and cry the whole time. I will be a wreck after so please don’t call.
----
All that stuff above was written last night (or early this morning) because I couldn't sleep. It’s now 2:36pm and I’m back. It’s done. I tried really hard not to totally collapse. I failed. This was definitely the hardest thing I ever had to do. I went in, and did all the paperwork because I knew I wasn't hanging around after to do it. I was doing okay -- just leaky eyes -- until they gave me a choice of urns to select. That’s when I started to really cry.
I went back and visited Scooter in her holding cell. The IVs an tubes were all removed. The original plan was to take one last photo of me and kitty as I'd brought my camera, but neither one of us was in any shape to have a photo. So there isn’t one so you'll have to make do with what I've got -- a selection is now on Flickr. I offered her a last Petrodex, but she didn’t even look at it. I brushed her, petted her. She knew. She knew I knew. She wasn't mad at me.
After brushing her, they picked her up, along with all her bedding as it was the safest way to move her. I would have carried her, except at the point I was in pretty bad shape. They kept asking if I was sure I could do this. The answer was no, but I said “I’m going to try.” We went to one of the interview rooms where they meet new patients for the first time. Some of the nurses actually were sad too.
In the room, I totally broke down and wailed “I can’t do this” while the tears and snot ran, but I still held on to Scooter. The vet explained there would be a pink injection and then a yellow one (I might have that in the wrong order). If I could have spoken, I’d have asked for my own set.
It didn’t take 90 seconds. They put in the pink one and waited about 60 seconds – that’s just a muscle relaxant. Then the yellow one, and it’s over. “She’s gone,” the vet said after checking with her stethoscope. Scooter never closed her eyes the whole time and I never let go. I didn't let got for a few seconds (it might have been 1 or might have been 100 -- time was frozen). Then I ran out the door and drove home. I hate life right now. I miss her so much. I am dead inside.
In Pace Requiscat.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Scooter Update 5.1
1. I went and visited Scooter today. She wasn't happy at all and refused her Petrodex treats. That was a bad sign and I made sure the vet knew it. I petted her And brushed her, but she was just not interested today. So after about 20 minutes I left, leaving her treat behind.
2. I spoke to the surgeon today. He has two older cats and after tomorrow they're going to decide what to do. He told me he'll tell me flat out whether he'd do it if it were his cat or not. He is also concerned about her quality of life even if he does the surgery. Recovery is from 6 weeks to 6 months. I'm not sure if I can do that to Scooter if it's that long and complicated. So the news doesn't look good.
I love my kitty and I am very, very sad. News tomorrow most likely.
2. I spoke to the surgeon today. He has two older cats and after tomorrow they're going to decide what to do. He told me he'll tell me flat out whether he'd do it if it were his cat or not. He is also concerned about her quality of life even if he does the surgery. Recovery is from 6 weeks to 6 months. I'm not sure if I can do that to Scooter if it's that long and complicated. So the news doesn't look good.
I love my kitty and I am very, very sad. News tomorrow most likely.
Scooter Update 5.0
News will be further delayed until tomorrow or Friday. A CD of her MRI is being overnighted to the University of Florida veterinary school for another opinion. Three radiologists have reviewed her results and prior to the formal biopsy there are some concerns about the nature of the tumor, her chance for recovery, and several other factors. I am rather testy because I had this MRI done this past Saturday at extra expense to minimize Scooter's suffering (and she is). Further every day she can't move weakens her muscles further and reduces her chance of recovery and the delays are very much irritating me and I made that very clear to the vets yesterday and today.
She has a probable meningioma tumor but it's on her spine near the front half of her hind quarters. It's on the spine and not in it. This particular type, they tell me, is genereally benign but now they're not sure if it's this type. She is not a candidate for radiation therapy or medicinal therapy due to factors involving her age and health. She is either a candidate for surgery or not.
I will let you know when there is more news.
She has a probable meningioma tumor but it's on her spine near the front half of her hind quarters. It's on the spine and not in it. This particular type, they tell me, is genereally benign but now they're not sure if it's this type. She is not a candidate for radiation therapy or medicinal therapy due to factors involving her age and health. She is either a candidate for surgery or not.
I will let you know when there is more news.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Scooter Update 4.3A
The news will be tomorrow. There will be no news today due to complications unrelated to me or Scooter. There was an emergency involving another critter in the vets office. I had only 10 minutes of visiting time tonight and she was very happy to see me. I hope it's early in the day 'cause I really can't take this. It's killing me inside.
Just A Little More Fame
Unlike my bud Murph I am not the Official Media Whore of the Florida Panthers* but I thought I'd mention that I have once again been quoted in a national publication.
The new one is an article about inventory counts at Interstate and appeared in Industrial Distribution magazine's current 12-1 issue. I was also quoted in an older article about other Distribution issues. There's also one in TechWorld from last year, but their facts are so messed up it's embarrassing. I guess they didn't bother to actually check what I said. The concept of the article is right but the numbers and such are just messed up. But we are pretty much Microsoft free so that's a good thing.
I've been quoted in lesser known publications and newspapers, either as an expert on hurricane shutters from my role at Interstate or various hockey stories (generally in the Fishwrapper/Herald) and sometimes even some tech articles as the result of DAR Systems. Mostly I lie low now and these articles are all generally older.
* Murph, you know I'm kidding right? :) I mean the Panthers would charge you to use that title.
The new one is an article about inventory counts at Interstate and appeared in Industrial Distribution magazine's current 12-1 issue. I was also quoted in an older article about other Distribution issues. There's also one in TechWorld from last year, but their facts are so messed up it's embarrassing. I guess they didn't bother to actually check what I said. The concept of the article is right but the numbers and such are just messed up. But we are pretty much Microsoft free so that's a good thing.
I've been quoted in lesser known publications and newspapers, either as an expert on hurricane shutters from my role at Interstate or various hockey stories (generally in the Fishwrapper/Herald) and sometimes even some tech articles as the result of DAR Systems. Mostly I lie low now and these articles are all generally older.
* Murph, you know I'm kidding right? :) I mean the Panthers would charge you to use that title.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Scooter Update 4.3
I visited her today after work. She was less happy than yesterday but she cheered up quickly after I brought out her brush and treats. The vet staff is always amazed at how well she responds. (Her neighbour for this entire time, Cujo a Siberian husky, went home today.)
There is a delay in an answer until tomorrow while we wait on the Orthopaedic vet to collect the information and decide what to do and if anything can be done. No word on the other options. I did not speak to the vet today but not for lack of trying.
American Airlines denied my reimbursement for lost luggage expenses AFTER they told me they'd pay it. My pal Mr & Mrs Murph work there, but I will say AA just continues to blow me away. First, they lose my luggage. Second they give me a list of what I can and cannot buy. Then they give me the procedure to file the claim. Then they deny they claim saying it wasn't pre-authorized per company policy. They screw it up, I follow their instructions, and they won't do what's right. I have sent them a diatribe via certified mail today.
I am going to Dr Cohen tomorrow for a follow up about my MRI. I'm going to see if he'll x-ray my knee.
There is a delay in an answer until tomorrow while we wait on the Orthopaedic vet to collect the information and decide what to do and if anything can be done. No word on the other options. I did not speak to the vet today but not for lack of trying.
American Airlines denied my reimbursement for lost luggage expenses AFTER they told me they'd pay it. My pal Mr & Mrs Murph work there, but I will say AA just continues to blow me away. First, they lose my luggage. Second they give me a list of what I can and cannot buy. Then they give me the procedure to file the claim. Then they deny they claim saying it wasn't pre-authorized per company policy. They screw it up, I follow their instructions, and they won't do what's right. I have sent them a diatribe via certified mail today.
I am going to Dr Cohen tomorrow for a follow up about my MRI. I'm going to see if he'll x-ray my knee.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
An Article Everyone Should Read
MacLean's Magazine had a great article by Steve Maich. I am an employer, and I've previously said the thing I hate more than firing people is hiring them. This article sums it up nicely. It gives every single poor character trait of the modern young person who applies for a job. If you're a young person, read it, because your next interview for a job is with someone like me.
"Spoiled, shallow, and selfish: say hi to the new kid at work" is the slug and boy is that accurate. It goes on to say "it’s tempting to write off the entire generation as a bunch of vain and vacuous prima donnas," and I must say oft-times it is. Firing someone because of their piss-poor attitude is much easier than firing someone who tries but just isn't capable.
"... they are reassured that by eliminating rules, chain of command, and doling out praise like penny candy they are simply unleashing the fantastic potential of their little darlings. History disagrees. History shows that it’s all those old-fashioned values that made North America the world’s most dynamic economy. Experience tells us that naive kids eventually discover a pretty close relationship between effort, discipline and success." Except, I tell you what, I just don't see it. I see these kids never growing up. That sense of entitlement they have is a cancer upon any workforce.
Hey people: you are not entitled to anything at your job that you haven't earned. Showing up at work doesn't entitle you to jack. You're not entitled to praise every day unless you do something really good. You're not entitled to a raise every three months. You're not entitled to use your cel phone all day while on the clock. And if you get mad when you're disciplined, you're not entitled to be shocked that you got fired: but usually you are. And that level of stupidity is WHY you got fired.
"Spoiled, shallow, and selfish: say hi to the new kid at work" is the slug and boy is that accurate. It goes on to say "it’s tempting to write off the entire generation as a bunch of vain and vacuous prima donnas," and I must say oft-times it is. Firing someone because of their piss-poor attitude is much easier than firing someone who tries but just isn't capable.
"... they are reassured that by eliminating rules, chain of command, and doling out praise like penny candy they are simply unleashing the fantastic potential of their little darlings. History disagrees. History shows that it’s all those old-fashioned values that made North America the world’s most dynamic economy. Experience tells us that naive kids eventually discover a pretty close relationship between effort, discipline and success." Except, I tell you what, I just don't see it. I see these kids never growing up. That sense of entitlement they have is a cancer upon any workforce.
Hey people: you are not entitled to anything at your job that you haven't earned. Showing up at work doesn't entitle you to jack. You're not entitled to praise every day unless you do something really good. You're not entitled to a raise every three months. You're not entitled to use your cel phone all day while on the clock. And if you get mad when you're disciplined, you're not entitled to be shocked that you got fired: but usually you are. And that level of stupidity is WHY you got fired.
Scooter Update 4.2 plus today's events
I went to visit Scooter this AM but there was someone in the surgery area so I couldn't see her. I left he treats, promising to come back later.
So I went skating with the Berners. I will not humiliate him by pointing out in my blog that his son Shane skates much better than he does. Oops. Too late. It slipped out. We had fun. The whole Berner clan was out there at some point skating.
Right near the end I had a spectacular wipeout when my skate caught a groove. It was my first fall in close to eight years. It was a high speed crash, but I controlled myself but couldn't maintain my balance, and rather than go face-first into the boards I opted for a controlled fall to the ice -- that failed and I landed on my good knee. It hurt but didn't look too bad.
Afterwards, Karen met us and we all went to lunch. The Steak And Shake on Pines is out of business so we ended up next store at NY Pizza. I've never seen such a poorly managed restaurant. The service was horrendous -- though I fault the guy running the place for putting a 15 year old to wait tables. It was just not in his skill set. Afterwards, the Berners bailed on us so it was just Karen and I for bowling.
We bowled three games and I won two of them, and the one I lost (the middle one) was by only a point. I dominated the third one with a 173 and turkey in the 5th through 7th including a spectacular Brooklyn on the last. It would have been four but the centre pin wouldn't drop. Sadly, afterwards my knee was stiffer than a teenager watching his first porno. I will now it call it "the knee that was formerly good" because it's bloody, bruised, and swollen. It hurts. Ouch.
I visited Scooter as soon as I got home, and there was no change except the AC at the vet's office was busted. She was happy to see me, and she got her treats and brushing. The visit was cut short by a Siberian Husky that couldn't even come in under his own power. (Scooter's cage is near the surgery table where the IVs are so if there's surgery she can't have visitors).
I want to thank everyone for their prayers and good wishes for Scooter.
Once the Scooter saga is resolved one way or another I have several other pieces of news.
We are currently under a tornado watch.
So I went skating with the Berners. I will not humiliate him by pointing out in my blog that his son Shane skates much better than he does. Oops. Too late. It slipped out. We had fun. The whole Berner clan was out there at some point skating.
Right near the end I had a spectacular wipeout when my skate caught a groove. It was my first fall in close to eight years. It was a high speed crash, but I controlled myself but couldn't maintain my balance, and rather than go face-first into the boards I opted for a controlled fall to the ice -- that failed and I landed on my good knee. It hurt but didn't look too bad.
Afterwards, Karen met us and we all went to lunch. The Steak And Shake on Pines is out of business so we ended up next store at NY Pizza. I've never seen such a poorly managed restaurant. The service was horrendous -- though I fault the guy running the place for putting a 15 year old to wait tables. It was just not in his skill set. Afterwards, the Berners bailed on us so it was just Karen and I for bowling.
We bowled three games and I won two of them, and the one I lost (the middle one) was by only a point. I dominated the third one with a 173 and turkey in the 5th through 7th including a spectacular Brooklyn on the last. It would have been four but the centre pin wouldn't drop. Sadly, afterwards my knee was stiffer than a teenager watching his first porno. I will now it call it "the knee that was formerly good" because it's bloody, bruised, and swollen. It hurts. Ouch.
I visited Scooter as soon as I got home, and there was no change except the AC at the vet's office was busted. She was happy to see me, and she got her treats and brushing. The visit was cut short by a Siberian Husky that couldn't even come in under his own power. (Scooter's cage is near the surgery table where the IVs are so if there's surgery she can't have visitors).
I want to thank everyone for their prayers and good wishes for Scooter.
Once the Scooter saga is resolved one way or another I have several other pieces of news.
We are currently under a tornado watch.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Scooter Update 4.1
I visited Scooter. Saw the MRI. The problem is Quite Evident. There is nothing wrong with her spine at all. Nothing. There's this tumour in the tissue surrounding the spine. It's a bright white spot.
Scooter was in good spirits, I pet her, brushed her, and fed her some food out of my hand. She's definitely not HAPPY though. She wants to leave but the inability to stand is a problem.
Today I've spoken with Doctor Child and Cabeza. Everything else is in my earlier post. So we'll see.
Scooter was in good spirits, I pet her, brushed her, and fed her some food out of my hand. She's definitely not HAPPY though. She wants to leave but the inability to stand is a problem.
Today I've spoken with Doctor Child and Cabeza. Everything else is in my earlier post. So we'll see.
Scooter Update 4.0
It's 919am and I have news on my beloved kitty, Scooter. She had her MRI at the people-MRI centre and she handled the anaesthesia fine -- which the vet says surprised her. They've reviewed the results. This will sound odd, but the best possible news would be for a benign tumour compressing the spinal column. I know it doesn't SOUND like good news, but that's what it is. To be accurate the benign/malignant status is not determined.
Now here's what's going to happen. Monday they will (in consultation with my real vet) contact a special hospital in Fort Lauderdale that does non-invasive removal of benign tumours using lasers and ultra-something-or-other. If she is a candidate, they will biopsy the tumour. If it's benign, we'll arrange for that surgery. Although it's about the same price as a small car, I am not thinking about price. I have four credit cards which all hold nearly five figures so I can run them all up. I've still got three that aren't full.
If it's malignant there is no hope and that is the end. At her age she cannot survive cancer treatments.
If she is NOT a candidate for this surgery AND the tumour is benign, then the fourth consulting doctor will decide if he can safely remove it with a small operation. The tumour is not IN her spinal column but under it. It's compressing the nerves in the spinal column which is why it's been manifesting itself as a neurological problem. It's what's causing her extreme pain and why the problem comes and goes. Of course, I will continue to kick myself for not having an MRI done a year ago, but who knew.
She's definitely going to be in the hospital through at least Tuesday. But there is now a chance, even if it's a small one. The vet said Scooter woke up from the anaesthesia in a good and feisty mood. I'm leaving to visit in 1hr -- the doctor's meeting me at the clinic. And don't doubt the quality of her care. Several doctors took time off their holiday weekends to arrange this, and allow her not only an MRI at a people centre (so much for health department rules) before they opened, but had a radiologist and two veterinarians there for an immediate reading. Last time I had an MRI I had to wait five days for results.
Thanks to every for caring and praying. Keep it up.
Scooter is approximately 22 years old and I really hope she lives many more years. She's been with me for over half my life.
Special wishes to the Murphs for their kitties Eddie and Amanda who are also having difficulties. Please keep them in your thoughts as well.
Now here's what's going to happen. Monday they will (in consultation with my real vet) contact a special hospital in Fort Lauderdale that does non-invasive removal of benign tumours using lasers and ultra-something-or-other. If she is a candidate, they will biopsy the tumour. If it's benign, we'll arrange for that surgery. Although it's about the same price as a small car, I am not thinking about price. I have four credit cards which all hold nearly five figures so I can run them all up. I've still got three that aren't full.
If it's malignant there is no hope and that is the end. At her age she cannot survive cancer treatments.
If she is NOT a candidate for this surgery AND the tumour is benign, then the fourth consulting doctor will decide if he can safely remove it with a small operation. The tumour is not IN her spinal column but under it. It's compressing the nerves in the spinal column which is why it's been manifesting itself as a neurological problem. It's what's causing her extreme pain and why the problem comes and goes. Of course, I will continue to kick myself for not having an MRI done a year ago, but who knew.
She's definitely going to be in the hospital through at least Tuesday. But there is now a chance, even if it's a small one. The vet said Scooter woke up from the anaesthesia in a good and feisty mood. I'm leaving to visit in 1hr -- the doctor's meeting me at the clinic. And don't doubt the quality of her care. Several doctors took time off their holiday weekends to arrange this, and allow her not only an MRI at a people centre (so much for health department rules) before they opened, but had a radiologist and two veterinarians there for an immediate reading. Last time I had an MRI I had to wait five days for results.
Thanks to every for caring and praying. Keep it up.
Scooter is approximately 22 years old and I really hope she lives many more years. She's been with me for over half my life.
Special wishes to the Murphs for their kitties Eddie and Amanda who are also having difficulties. Please keep them in your thoughts as well.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Today's Scooter Report
Down to the wire and tomorrow's the big, bad day. I visited Scooter again this morning. She was alert and responsive today. It didn't make the visit any easier. She greeted me with a meow. She nuzzled me and suffered her brushing gladly. I gave her a Petrodex treat which she ate out of my hand.
The vet (the one who looks 14 -- see previous post) said she was even grooming herself earlier. She's relatively healthy except for whatever this condition is. They suspect now, it's neurological and that means there is likely no treatment. Tomorrow isn't likely to be a happy day.
The vet (the one who looks 14 -- see previous post) said she was even grooming herself earlier. She's relatively healthy except for whatever this condition is. They suspect now, it's neurological and that means there is likely no treatment. Tomorrow isn't likely to be a happy day.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Various Items
1. Visited Scooter this AM. I was happy not to get any grief from the holiday staff. I brought her brush, and brushed her. She didn't seem happy to see me but it wasn't personal. She was just out of it.
2. I met the weekend vet. He looked like he was 14 but he said Scooter wasn't any worse or better. She's eating but they have to hand feed her. I'm going to try that tomorrow. She also needs help to go to the bathroom because she can't stand on her own.
3. Two more days until The Decision. ::sigh:: Pray for Scooter.
4. I am going to auction off my mother to the highest bidder. Before dinner we were discussing where silk came from because my Grandmother got a new silk scarf from Sophia in China. (I just finally gave it to her because I am a less than perfect grandson and it's been here since I got back from the NIFS show early this month). Mom asked if silk came from ... Wait for it ... Wait ... Wait ... Wait ... Panda Bears. I am not making this up. Bidding starts at £1.50 and will go in 50p increments. Winner pays shipping. Cash in pounds sterling only.
2. I met the weekend vet. He looked like he was 14 but he said Scooter wasn't any worse or better. She's eating but they have to hand feed her. I'm going to try that tomorrow. She also needs help to go to the bathroom because she can't stand on her own.
3. Two more days until The Decision. ::sigh:: Pray for Scooter.
4. I am going to auction off my mother to the highest bidder. Before dinner we were discussing where silk came from because my Grandmother got a new silk scarf from Sophia in China. (I just finally gave it to her because I am a less than perfect grandson and it's been here since I got back from the NIFS show early this month). Mom asked if silk came from ... Wait for it ... Wait ... Wait ... Wait ... Panda Bears. I am not making this up. Bidding starts at £1.50 and will go in 50p increments. Winner pays shipping. Cash in pounds sterling only.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Scooter Visit (Tues)
I went to visit Scooter today after work, or more accurately I left work before 4pm and went to visit Scooter. They made me wait a few minutes before I could see her. Because she can't be moved, I have to visit her back in the actual clinic -- they normally don't allow visitors. But that's where she housed because it's staffed 24/7. While I waited, I filled out all the paperwork for Saturday's big test and paid for my bill up to now. Thank god for credit cards.
She was asleep, of course, when I walked in. On a bed of blankets and lined with one of those blue/white accident cloths under it. There was an IV hooked up to her front paw. I opened the door and pet her but she didn't really move. Then I whispered in her ear, and remember she can't hear any more. So, I rubbed her nose gently (in the special spot she likes) until she decided to open her eyes. She saw me and started to purr but she didn't really have much strength, so just continued to lay there. I continued to pet her and stroke her until she fell asleep and for awhile thereafter.
I ran to my car and drove home.
She was asleep, of course, when I walked in. On a bed of blankets and lined with one of those blue/white accident cloths under it. There was an IV hooked up to her front paw. I opened the door and pet her but she didn't really move. Then I whispered in her ear, and remember she can't hear any more. So, I rubbed her nose gently (in the special spot she likes) until she decided to open her eyes. She saw me and started to purr but she didn't really have much strength, so just continued to lay there. I continued to pet her and stroke her until she fell asleep and for awhile thereafter.
I ran to my car and drove home.
Scooter News -- More
The orthopaedic guy has inspected Scooter. She is not a candidate for anything but the most minor surgery The odds on there being anything that can be done are close to zero. Doctors Cabeza, Child, Diaz, and he all agree. That's four vets with the same basic opinion.
However, it might be a small tumor or something that could be impacting the spinal area and that could be easily removed. So, we have arranged with the local MRI center to allow Scooter to come in Saturday for an MRI -- they normally don't do animals. There is a high risk from the anesthesia as well. The orthopaedic guy says with these results he'll be able to look me in the eye and tell me what to do, but without out there is still some doubt.
I can't/won't make a decision unless I know for sure, though I'm sure that decision will come Saturday evening sometime. I'm also going to visit her today. I wish I could let her come home but that's not an option in her shape. I really hope this is something simple but I probably know better.
However, it might be a small tumor or something that could be impacting the spinal area and that could be easily removed. So, we have arranged with the local MRI center to allow Scooter to come in Saturday for an MRI -- they normally don't do animals. There is a high risk from the anesthesia as well. The orthopaedic guy says with these results he'll be able to look me in the eye and tell me what to do, but without out there is still some doubt.
I can't/won't make a decision unless I know for sure, though I'm sure that decision will come Saturday evening sometime. I'm also going to visit her today. I wish I could let her come home but that's not an option in her shape. I really hope this is something simple but I probably know better.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Quick Scooter Update :(
I don't have too much to report and what I have is not good.
I didn't get any further answers out of the emergency vet last night, so this morning I called the regular vet. He called the emergency vet and he has no ideas either. I spoke the the head doctor at the emergency vet early this afternoon. She also told me (cry) that Scooter is now depressed. Poor kitty. But she is in no shape to be moved or taken home.
It's definitely neurological and I've given the okay for an orthopaedic guy to come in and take a look at it. Surgery on Scooter is not an option (all my vets agree on this) but maybe it's something simple.
I am really scared that time is running out. Probably no more news until tomorrow.
I didn't get any further answers out of the emergency vet last night, so this morning I called the regular vet. He called the emergency vet and he has no ideas either. I spoke the the head doctor at the emergency vet early this afternoon. She also told me (cry) that Scooter is now depressed. Poor kitty. But she is in no shape to be moved or taken home.
It's definitely neurological and I've given the okay for an orthopaedic guy to come in and take a look at it. Surgery on Scooter is not an option (all my vets agree on this) but maybe it's something simple.
I am really scared that time is running out. Probably no more news until tomorrow.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
No More Scooter News Really
Scooter is still in hospital. All tests so far are negative and the gas is gone and she's still immobile. The vet is running additional tests in an effort find the problem. She's not comfortable at all and there's no clue as to the issue. I am expecting additional news later today, but that's all I've got now.
A rare work related item: Boeing's 787 program has been delayed due to fastener failure. Obviously I have interest in this topic. It turns out they are not installing them properly and there are gaps between the head of the fastener and the metal (see Aviation Week 11-10-08). Why is this bad? In an airplane, the play would allow the metal to flex, metal that flexed gets metal fatigue. Metal Fatigue causes failure, and failure causes planes to crash. Metal fatigue is actually small microscopic cracks the develop in airframes. They occur at pretty predictable rates which assume number of landings/takeoffs and number of air hours. They cannot account for metal flexing due to improperly installed parts (be they fasteners or something else). Thus the failure will occur before an inspection.
I saw Bolt today. Bolt was much better than I expected and was quite enjoyable though due to my circumstances the cat caused me a great distraction. It's an entirely predictable Disney film, so if you're looking for surprise, this isn't it. We saw it in 3D but that really didn't add much, so save the extra $2 and see it without the 3D. It's a little longer than your typical Disney cartoon which worked well and Bolt himself is a very loveable character, though the fat hamster steals the parts of the film in which he appears. Yay hamster.
Dave Barry's Gift Guide was in today's Herald/Fishwrapper. In other news, the exchange rate £ to $ is down to 1.47 today!
315pm Update: Dr. Child called. Scooter is still in pain but she is unable to find a cause. She's got Scooter on pain medications until this evening when they other doctor comes in. All of Scooter's blood work came back GREAT. She's in great health THEORETICALLY. Only she's not. So another night or two in hospital for Scooter :(
A rare work related item: Boeing's 787 program has been delayed due to fastener failure. Obviously I have interest in this topic. It turns out they are not installing them properly and there are gaps between the head of the fastener and the metal (see Aviation Week 11-10-08). Why is this bad? In an airplane, the play would allow the metal to flex, metal that flexed gets metal fatigue. Metal Fatigue causes failure, and failure causes planes to crash. Metal fatigue is actually small microscopic cracks the develop in airframes. They occur at pretty predictable rates which assume number of landings/takeoffs and number of air hours. They cannot account for metal flexing due to improperly installed parts (be they fasteners or something else). Thus the failure will occur before an inspection.
I saw Bolt today. Bolt was much better than I expected and was quite enjoyable though due to my circumstances the cat caused me a great distraction. It's an entirely predictable Disney film, so if you're looking for surprise, this isn't it. We saw it in 3D but that really didn't add much, so save the extra $2 and see it without the 3D. It's a little longer than your typical Disney cartoon which worked well and Bolt himself is a very loveable character, though the fat hamster steals the parts of the film in which he appears. Yay hamster.
Dave Barry's Gift Guide was in today's Herald/Fishwrapper. In other news, the exchange rate £ to $ is down to 1.47 today!
315pm Update: Dr. Child called. Scooter is still in pain but she is unable to find a cause. She's got Scooter on pain medications until this evening when they other doctor comes in. All of Scooter's blood work came back GREAT. She's in great health THEORETICALLY. Only she's not. So another night or two in hospital for Scooter :(
Saturday, November 22, 2008
What a Bad Day
What a bad day. I woke up, because Scooter decided it was time for breakfast. I went to the bathroom and did my usual stuff and she followed. She did something really weird, put her paws full forward, spread her rear legs and looked like she was trying to take a crap in the bathroom. Certainly not normal behaviour. I carried her downstairs, put her down and she walked to her bed. I noticed there were little poo chunks (Hershey Kiss sized) all over the living room. Very odd. I picked 'em up with a towel and disposed of them and then washed up. I then went to get the paper. When I came back in, she was lying in a very odd position on the floor. I went over and picked her up and set her down. Her legs collapsed and she was unable to stand.
I grabbed her carrier, put her in it (she didn't resist) and drove off towards the 24/7 Emergency Vet at warp drive, nearly running the vet over in the back alley short-cut. I slammed on the breaks to talk to the vet (Dr Child) who was on her way back from Starbucks. I drove around to the vet, and they let me right in.
After several tests, xrays, etcetra, they determined there was extreme gassy building up causing pressure on her spine. She was treated for the gas and the pain and some sub-something-or-other fluids because she was a tad dehydrated. $400 for that emergency visit. Anyway, got her home and she JUMPED out of her carrier (a good sign), she ate, and went to her litter box and took a dump (another good sign). She was shaking a bit like she was cold but I figured it was a bit of a reaction to the anti-gas medicine because he stomach was gurgling and well, the gas WAS coming out. (The less said, the better.)
So I figured she was happy and well again. Went to have breakfast and then see Quantum of Solace. Came home. Scooter has one of those carpeted kitty-condos. She doesn't much use it anymore except to keep her toys in the bottom part which is dark and enclosed. She's not been in there in over six YEARS. She was half in, laying on her side.
I pet her. Then I tried to pick her up and she cried in pain. I grabbed her cat carrier, picked her up as gently as I could, my poor heart breaking at her plaintive cries, and rushed her to the vet (again) calling ahead to warn them I was coming. I rushed in, flew through reception and into the office. They took another x-ray which showed even MORE gas. Something must be causing it. So anyway, they decided they'd keep her for a few hours and told me to go. Dr. Child called me a few times to let me know they were giving her a Barium Shake and that so far it was showing all sorts of gas and she had no explanation as to where it was coming from because all her tests (heart, liver, blood, reflex, etc) were all perfectly normal for a 21/22 year old cat.
She called me at 7pm to say Scooter isn't better and she has to spend the night at the vet :(
----
Quantum of Solace Review: Yay. Another fine Bond. Mr. Craig is second only to Connery in his Bond. The arch-Villain is creepy as hell, and the Bond Babe is a Babe. Not many gadgets but plenty of action and suspense. And plot! But what a horrid theme song. And the walking silhouette that shoots the eye? At the END of the film. This film starts with action and is pretty much action from start to end. It's a tight film and clocks in at around 1-3/4 hours.
I really enjoyed it because I knew Scooter was better. If I had realized she had a sudden relapse I'd have never stayed. I feel bad.
Also, whilst waiting for the film to start I did a lot of holiday shopping. I am about done. Waiting for a big box from Amazon which will take care of quite a few people.
I grabbed her carrier, put her in it (she didn't resist) and drove off towards the 24/7 Emergency Vet at warp drive, nearly running the vet over in the back alley short-cut. I slammed on the breaks to talk to the vet (Dr Child) who was on her way back from Starbucks. I drove around to the vet, and they let me right in.
After several tests, xrays, etcetra, they determined there was extreme gassy building up causing pressure on her spine. She was treated for the gas and the pain and some sub-something-or-other fluids because she was a tad dehydrated. $400 for that emergency visit. Anyway, got her home and she JUMPED out of her carrier (a good sign), she ate, and went to her litter box and took a dump (another good sign). She was shaking a bit like she was cold but I figured it was a bit of a reaction to the anti-gas medicine because he stomach was gurgling and well, the gas WAS coming out. (The less said, the better.)
So I figured she was happy and well again. Went to have breakfast and then see Quantum of Solace. Came home. Scooter has one of those carpeted kitty-condos. She doesn't much use it anymore except to keep her toys in the bottom part which is dark and enclosed. She's not been in there in over six YEARS. She was half in, laying on her side.
I pet her. Then I tried to pick her up and she cried in pain. I grabbed her cat carrier, picked her up as gently as I could, my poor heart breaking at her plaintive cries, and rushed her to the vet (again) calling ahead to warn them I was coming. I rushed in, flew through reception and into the office. They took another x-ray which showed even MORE gas. Something must be causing it. So anyway, they decided they'd keep her for a few hours and told me to go. Dr. Child called me a few times to let me know they were giving her a Barium Shake and that so far it was showing all sorts of gas and she had no explanation as to where it was coming from because all her tests (heart, liver, blood, reflex, etc) were all perfectly normal for a 21/22 year old cat.
She called me at 7pm to say Scooter isn't better and she has to spend the night at the vet :(
----
Quantum of Solace Review: Yay. Another fine Bond. Mr. Craig is second only to Connery in his Bond. The arch-Villain is creepy as hell, and the Bond Babe is a Babe. Not many gadgets but plenty of action and suspense. And plot! But what a horrid theme song. And the walking silhouette that shoots the eye? At the END of the film. This film starts with action and is pretty much action from start to end. It's a tight film and clocks in at around 1-3/4 hours.
I really enjoyed it because I knew Scooter was better. If I had realized she had a sudden relapse I'd have never stayed. I feel bad.
Also, whilst waiting for the film to start I did a lot of holiday shopping. I am about done. Waiting for a big box from Amazon which will take care of quite a few people.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Sarah Palin Loves Turkey because, I suppose, she IS one
Everyone hates Sarah Palin. At least I do, and that's all that matters. I'm telling you this because you should know there's bias here. Lots of it. In spades. But this video was sent to me by one of her fans. Says quite a lot about the sort of person who actually likes her.
The former Republican VP candidate and partial cause of their election-day meltdown, and currentlt absurdly popular Alaska Governor, was doing the standard "Pardon the Turkey" routine, when things went horribly wrong. Really wrong. And captured on video. Yeah, if you watch in the background, keeping in mind they're at a ranch(farm?) where they slaughter them, you will see in the background what one might expect.
There's a great story here with the censored video. Because I am nice, I've got you a link to the uncensored version though they're just about the same. Do not watch this as you're planning on eating Turkey. Remember meat doesn't appear in neat packages on the shelf. It has to get turned from living, breathing creature into meat.
So, there ya' go. BTW, I've been told that what he's doing is killing the turkey and draining off the blood. I do not know if it's true but it seems plausible.
I'm still sick. I hate bickering relatives with a passion. The exchange rate for the Dollar to Pound is at 1.50 on the nose, down from 2.04 which makes a trip affordable but nobody wants to go when I can go. So, I'm not sure what I'll do for the holidays because there aren't that many people I'd be willing to be with for a week.
I'm going to finish my x-mas shopping this week if I can so I can avoid the evil Post Black Friday crush -- not that I think there will even be one. I've ordered quite a bit from Amazon. I've already broken my two gift per person rule and got a few relatives three. Then again, food doesn't count so I suppose I'm okay. (Stupid-ass gifts are excluded from the count.) And I've expunged lots of people from my gift list and also my holiday card list. I'm under 80 cards and that's my first year under 100 in quite some time. Now I gotta find this year's insert.
The former Republican VP candidate and partial cause of their election-day meltdown, and currentlt absurdly popular Alaska Governor, was doing the standard "Pardon the Turkey" routine, when things went horribly wrong. Really wrong. And captured on video. Yeah, if you watch in the background, keeping in mind they're at a ranch(farm?) where they slaughter them, you will see in the background what one might expect.
There's a great story here with the censored video. Because I am nice, I've got you a link to the uncensored version though they're just about the same. Do not watch this as you're planning on eating Turkey. Remember meat doesn't appear in neat packages on the shelf. It has to get turned from living, breathing creature into meat.
So, there ya' go. BTW, I've been told that what he's doing is killing the turkey and draining off the blood. I do not know if it's true but it seems plausible.
I'm still sick. I hate bickering relatives with a passion. The exchange rate for the Dollar to Pound is at 1.50 on the nose, down from 2.04 which makes a trip affordable but nobody wants to go when I can go. So, I'm not sure what I'll do for the holidays because there aren't that many people I'd be willing to be with for a week.
I'm going to finish my x-mas shopping this week if I can so I can avoid the evil Post Black Friday crush -- not that I think there will even be one. I've ordered quite a bit from Amazon. I've already broken my two gift per person rule and got a few relatives three. Then again, food doesn't count so I suppose I'm okay. (Stupid-ass gifts are excluded from the count.) And I've expunged lots of people from my gift list and also my holiday card list. I'm under 80 cards and that's my first year under 100 in quite some time. Now I gotta find this year's insert.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Foundation by Mercedes Lackey
I've got another book to give a quick review on. I've read most of Mercedes Lackey's work (my friend Paul had recommended the first one to me aeons ago). Lately I've given them a little less attention as my horizons expanded and my time for free reading decreased -- you should see my unread book pile; it's embarrassing.
Anyway, I was searching for Plane Books. You know, those easy reads you buy for a plane ride so after a bump, an interruption, and so forth, a missed or duplicated paragraph won't be nearly as upsetting. Well, it ended up I only read three of my four plane books (see previous reviews) because I was catching up on magazines. This was the fourth one.
And, I must say, it's pretty damned good. It starts of irritatingly predictable with the poor, mistreated waif of irrelevant gender being chosen. Once that's out of the way, the book really gets going and this one is quite a bit different than her other works, though there are a few preachy moments snuck in by the author. Still, I enjoyed it. I was dismayed to find out this is book one of a multiple volume entry. So there's certainly a cliffhanger I wasn't expecting. I'm usually careful not to get into a multi-volume series where the books can't stand independently until the series is complete. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy.
And I want to, once again, thank Jose for helping me to keep my sanity. I realize there isn't much to work with when it comes to my sanity, but thanks for saving what's left.
I've had a cold for about a week now. As you know, I was recently off at the NIFS/West trade show, having fun, gambling, and sharing food with some of my colleagues. At our group big meals, Gaby is fond of ordering appetizers for the table and sharing them. Proper etiquette means using a fork/spoon solely for dishing from the appetizer plate on to your plate, and then using your personal fork from thereon out. I know the rules. But that's not how they do it. Well turns out Greg had strep so all of us had to go get tested. So now I am on antibiotics, etc, etc. At least I know why I'm sick. I have all the symptoms but the test wasn't conclusive, so they are treating me while they grow a culture just to be safe. I did this all the local Baptist Urgent Care Centre: it was actually a good experience! Treated like a person, everyone friendly, explained everything. I'm not used to that. They get an A+ for everything except for some obscure reason they won't fax a prescription in to the pharmacy which means you have to wait and wait and wait.
I prefer no gifts. I like giving gifts, but not so much receiving them. I've instituted, unilaterally, among my family a two gift policy. This way they know they're not getting more and it doesn't become a contest. It's just silly, especially in this economy. Most of my relatives are thrilled, some not so much. I guess they mistake me for someone who gives a damn. Many of my friends and I have agreed to forgo future gifts, which is even cooler. I just updated my Amazon wish list for those who are interested -- but please, there is no obligation.
I'm doing holiday cards again this year after swearing I wouldn't. And it sucks because I don't have a good insert this year. Damn. Not going to everyone though. I'm behind schedule this year.
I'm still trying to fly the coop this turkey day, but it doesn't look possible because of complications. On the plus side I may get to see Jose. And his brother Hose B. I love that joke. It's an antique John Charles joke.
I should be hungry but I'm not. Stupid cold. I haven't exercised since last Thursday because I have no energy due to being sick. And today my rear tyre* was low on air -- so the sensor light said. I had to add ten pounds of air. But I can't find a puncture anywhere so I've decided to eschew a repair unless it happens again. Maybe someone decided to let a lot of air out for fun? Still, nothing like paying 50 cents for air and getting greasy in 51 degree windy weather when you're sick. How did YOUR day start?
I spoke with Rob about our long delayed (11-2006) collabarotive project, and it will continue to be long delayed. It sucks as I was kinda' looking forward to it. But a two person project needs two people.
Oh and my neck is hurting again. But I won't go to the chiro until I'm over the cold.
* That is spelt correctly. Shut up.
Anyway, I was searching for Plane Books. You know, those easy reads you buy for a plane ride so after a bump, an interruption, and so forth, a missed or duplicated paragraph won't be nearly as upsetting. Well, it ended up I only read three of my four plane books (see previous reviews) because I was catching up on magazines. This was the fourth one.
And, I must say, it's pretty damned good. It starts of irritatingly predictable with the poor, mistreated waif of irrelevant gender being chosen. Once that's out of the way, the book really gets going and this one is quite a bit different than her other works, though there are a few preachy moments snuck in by the author. Still, I enjoyed it. I was dismayed to find out this is book one of a multiple volume entry. So there's certainly a cliffhanger I wasn't expecting. I'm usually careful not to get into a multi-volume series where the books can't stand independently until the series is complete. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy.
And I want to, once again, thank Jose for helping me to keep my sanity. I realize there isn't much to work with when it comes to my sanity, but thanks for saving what's left.
I've had a cold for about a week now. As you know, I was recently off at the NIFS/West trade show, having fun, gambling, and sharing food with some of my colleagues. At our group big meals, Gaby is fond of ordering appetizers for the table and sharing them. Proper etiquette means using a fork/spoon solely for dishing from the appetizer plate on to your plate, and then using your personal fork from thereon out. I know the rules. But that's not how they do it. Well turns out Greg had strep so all of us had to go get tested. So now I am on antibiotics, etc, etc. At least I know why I'm sick. I have all the symptoms but the test wasn't conclusive, so they are treating me while they grow a culture just to be safe. I did this all the local Baptist Urgent Care Centre: it was actually a good experience! Treated like a person, everyone friendly, explained everything. I'm not used to that. They get an A+ for everything except for some obscure reason they won't fax a prescription in to the pharmacy which means you have to wait and wait and wait.
I prefer no gifts. I like giving gifts, but not so much receiving them. I've instituted, unilaterally, among my family a two gift policy. This way they know they're not getting more and it doesn't become a contest. It's just silly, especially in this economy. Most of my relatives are thrilled, some not so much. I guess they mistake me for someone who gives a damn. Many of my friends and I have agreed to forgo future gifts, which is even cooler. I just updated my Amazon wish list for those who are interested -- but please, there is no obligation.
I'm doing holiday cards again this year after swearing I wouldn't. And it sucks because I don't have a good insert this year. Damn. Not going to everyone though. I'm behind schedule this year.
I'm still trying to fly the coop this turkey day, but it doesn't look possible because of complications. On the plus side I may get to see Jose. And his brother Hose B. I love that joke. It's an antique John Charles joke.
I should be hungry but I'm not. Stupid cold. I haven't exercised since last Thursday because I have no energy due to being sick. And today my rear tyre* was low on air -- so the sensor light said. I had to add ten pounds of air. But I can't find a puncture anywhere so I've decided to eschew a repair unless it happens again. Maybe someone decided to let a lot of air out for fun? Still, nothing like paying 50 cents for air and getting greasy in 51 degree windy weather when you're sick. How did YOUR day start?
I spoke with Rob about our long delayed (11-2006) collabarotive project, and it will continue to be long delayed. It sucks as I was kinda' looking forward to it. But a two person project needs two people.
Oh and my neck is hurting again. But I won't go to the chiro until I'm over the cold.
* That is spelt correctly. Shut up.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Catching Up Is Hard To Do
First, I've got a cold so I am cranky as hell.
Today (Saturday) I saw Cirque Du Soliel's Corteo with Maury, who flew in just for this. She's back out tomorrow. Not one of my favourites in the Cirque pantheon. So-so music and some great bits interspersed with average bits. The parking lot exit was worse than normal -- you figure after all these years of shows at Bicentennial Park, they'd figure it out. The people behind us were very irritating and wouldn't stop yabbering in Italian.
Friday the Panthers lost to the Red Wings, but on the plus side we did run out to the cancer deck* and watched the shuttle take off. I can't wait. Evan said he'll post a video soon because he drove up. It's amazing how clearly we could see it even though were 300+ miles away. It was just perfect. Oh, and I took all my hurricane food (the dreaded Chef Boy-ar-dee) and donated it to the food drive before the game.
On Thursday we saw TSO (TransSiberian Orchestra) -- the third time running I've seen the same exact show. Or more accurately the first half is the same, and the second half is different. I wish they'd do something about it. We got a different touring company than usual, and they weren't quite as good. I still enjoyed it, but did bail about 10 minutes before the end because I was feeling especially bad. As is their custom Lizzie and Shane slept through most of it. I do enjoy doing this with the Berner Clan though. I get to be a little part of their family for the evening.
I picked up my dry cleaning this morning (all the stuff from Vegas) and the brand new expensive Lacoste shirt I had to buy for my meeting with Department of Homeland Security has gone missing. I have the receipt and Monday I will have to pick a fight with them, I suppose.
I've not exercised in several days because I feel like shit. Not breathing will do that to you. I'm going to bed now.
The promised news will be coming soon. And to the people who are worried: I'm not killing myself, not planning on killing anyone, or any other major disaster so stop panicking. Not all change is bad, but sometimes is necessary.
* smoking area
Today (Saturday) I saw Cirque Du Soliel's Corteo with Maury, who flew in just for this. She's back out tomorrow. Not one of my favourites in the Cirque pantheon. So-so music and some great bits interspersed with average bits. The parking lot exit was worse than normal -- you figure after all these years of shows at Bicentennial Park, they'd figure it out. The people behind us were very irritating and wouldn't stop yabbering in Italian.
Friday the Panthers lost to the Red Wings, but on the plus side we did run out to the cancer deck* and watched the shuttle take off. I can't wait. Evan said he'll post a video soon because he drove up. It's amazing how clearly we could see it even though were 300+ miles away. It was just perfect. Oh, and I took all my hurricane food (the dreaded Chef Boy-ar-dee) and donated it to the food drive before the game.
On Thursday we saw TSO (TransSiberian Orchestra) -- the third time running I've seen the same exact show. Or more accurately the first half is the same, and the second half is different. I wish they'd do something about it. We got a different touring company than usual, and they weren't quite as good. I still enjoyed it, but did bail about 10 minutes before the end because I was feeling especially bad. As is their custom Lizzie and Shane slept through most of it. I do enjoy doing this with the Berner Clan though. I get to be a little part of their family for the evening.
I picked up my dry cleaning this morning (all the stuff from Vegas) and the brand new expensive Lacoste shirt I had to buy for my meeting with Department of Homeland Security has gone missing. I have the receipt and Monday I will have to pick a fight with them, I suppose.
I've not exercised in several days because I feel like shit. Not breathing will do that to you. I'm going to bed now.
The promised news will be coming soon. And to the people who are worried: I'm not killing myself, not planning on killing anyone, or any other major disaster so stop panicking. Not all change is bad, but sometimes is necessary.
* smoking area
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
A Special Thank You
To Jose for putting up with me and for offering sound advice even if I don't want to hear it.
Today, I wore my Obama button to work. As a principal of the company I work for, it's not appropriate for me to express political opinions, wear political buttons, and that sort of thing. Now that it's over I can rub it in everyone's face. My work force is VERY republican. How sad.
And I want to mention to those of you who are into the Florida Panthers (NHL) that Murphy's blog over there is most excellent. As a pilot, he travels all over the country so he sees lots of games in opposing arenas. He writes some great stuff. (And his wife is hot.)
Today, I wore my Obama button to work. As a principal of the company I work for, it's not appropriate for me to express political opinions, wear political buttons, and that sort of thing. Now that it's over I can rub it in everyone's face. My work force is VERY republican. How sad.
And I want to mention to those of you who are into the Florida Panthers (NHL) that Murphy's blog over there is most excellent. As a pilot, he travels all over the country so he sees lots of games in opposing arenas. He writes some great stuff. (And his wife is hot.)
Monday, November 10, 2008
More Election Thoughts and Detailed Analysis
In my previous post, I said and now, we boldly go into a new future for America, Americans, and the World. I want to throw lots of stats out to show you what the world things. I have mentioned before that I subscribe to The Economist, a decidedly stodgy old conservative British publication. They opened a poll for their readers around the planet to vote on who they would vote for IF they could. The poll is here. Go look at the map. The entire planet except four countries* is blue (among those casting enough votes to count). 9115 to 213 were the electoral college votes assigned from 53,000 votes. In 56 countries, Mr. Obama's margin of victory was at least 90% of the vote.
I want to go over some statistics (7 pages from CNN) about this election here in the USA as well. These aren't hypothetical. These are factual from our election. The racial divide is obvious, so I'll just skip that. Blacks were overwhelmingly for Obama. Whites were close to split. Gender was a bigger spread with Women evenly split and Men leaning slightly towards McCain. (We'll get to the brainpower behind them later). What many found interesting was that Hispanics were overwhelmingly in the Obama camp. I define overwhelming as 60% or more. In terms of age groups, they start at the youngest as heavily Obama and as it moved towards the older, it became more towards Obama but only the over 65 set was fully in support of McCain. Older people are more change adverse, more closed minded, and more influenced by stereotypes. This is to be expected, though certainly not applauded.
What was surprising to everyone was the vote by income. The poor clearly went democratic and that was a surprise to nobody. The middle class was evenly split. What shocked everyone is the very wealthiest -- those making over $200,000 a year -- the ones who should never vote democratic in order to preserve their wealth -- voted Obama by a solid margin. That proves that the uber-rich actually voted not in their self-interest, but with those of the country.
Not surprising is the race/education split. Those who are white and are not educated were very strongly in the McCain camp whilst those who are educated were in the Obama camp. This says a great deal about the Quality of his voters. Draw your own conclusions. Liberals and Moderates voted overwhelmingly for Obama. But Only 78% of conservatives voted for McCain proving he wasn't the right candidate.
The Republicans have to learn to stop pandering to the Right-Wing Zealots. Those embarassing excuses for humans are not enough to win/lose an election. If McCain would have been himself and ignored them, he'd have fared NO WORSE in the election. Maybe he'd have done better if he wasn't like a flag in the wind: always changing direction. Voter feelings were an issue too. If McCain were elected 53% of the country was concerned or scared. You can't even be elected with that number.
The religious vote was pretty cool. Only protestants voted for McCain. All other religions were predominantly in the Obama camp including Catholics. And if you break it down by actual chruch attendance instead of simple identification the results are almost laughable. Even the Evangelical vote wasn't good for McCain. He lost 24% of that, too. Yeah, Evangelicals for Obama. Really.
The marital status divide wasn't significant so I'm going to skip that. However gun owners where overwhelmingly for McCain. That's not a surprise but at least he did solidly win one category. I'm not sure he should be proud of that. While military members were for McCain, 54% is not a huge margin. And if you are so concerned about Obama being a "star" the polls also show that Clinton would have beat McCain too. He wasn't going to win this election. The numbers are convincing. I was amused at the fact that nearly a quarter of gay voters were in the McCain camp. Why would you vote for someone who hates you?
In terms of region Urban voters were for Obama, Suburban also for Obama but less convincingly, and only rural voters were for McCain. (So to keep track so far: we have uneducated, racist, evangelical hicks for McCain. I'm kidding, it's not quite like that but it amuses me greatly.)
In the vice presidential sweepstakes 66% of the people thought Biden was qualified to be President if necessary. Palin? 38%. That had to hurt McCain. Palin was offensive to many people. It cost him votes, hurt his credibility. She's so far right it makes Bush look liberal. I also think she's a moldy (insert word that rhymes with punt), but that's my opinion.
Where Obama was hurt was experience. He needs to address that by surrounding himself with the best and brightest. Confidence in his experience level was split almost 50/50 and that can't be good. McCain clobbered him in this area, and rightfully so I will admit. And as to whether the candidates were "in touch with people like you" -- Obama won that by mind-altering proportions. Though I don't believe any politician is in touch with someone like me. Seriously.
Those negative TV ads really did a number on McCain too. Only 49% of the people thought Obama's ads were unfair but 64% of people though McCain's were unfair. That's nothing to be proud of. And, as Bill Clinton reminded us, and the voters clearly remember: it's the economy, stupid. The numbers are huge. And that's probably what did it. I think many people who normally wouldn't vote for a Democrat, a Black, a Liberal finally said "I'm mad as Hell, and am not going to take it anymore"** and collectively sent a big "fuck you" to the Republican party. The bailout, for the record, is overwhelmingly opposed by the entire country. The war in Iraq is overwhelmingly disliked. And 75% of our population thinks the country is on the wrong track and that is a repudiation of the the Bush administration, and a well-deserved one too. Sadly 9% of the people voting admitted that "race was a factor" -- how many people didn't admit it. Yet Obama won in spite of that.
The vote wasn't close -- a 7 million vote spread in the popular vote tells you, it is time for a change. Everyone has figured it out, and many of the McCain supporters are gracious about it, much like he was. But not everyone. Over at my message boards, there is at least one person who just doesn't get it. And he's the sort of person that has put America in the straits it is in. Some people continue to vote for self-interest over interest of the country as a whole. The president is by the people and for the people. The president is not for YOU. The president is for US. These are the people who claim to be patriots, but they are the worst our country has to offer. I don't really want to pick on this person, but besides the few people still posting I've received a few notes from my Republican friends asking "what is wrong with him" and I just can't answer. Myopic tunnel-vision, I suppose.
Life will go on. America is a new country. A shining beacon for the world, once again. The president of France has announced an initiative to change his country because they thought what we did was amazing. And people around the world danced in the streets over OUR election. That ought tell you something. When was the last time that happened? Oh, right. Never.
You experienced history in the making.
* Iraq, Cuba, Congo, and Algeria went with McCain. I would assume the first two are because of a high us military presence with Internet access. But even those four the margin was NOT substantial.
** Howard Beale (Network, Peter Finch, a classic)
I want to go over some statistics (7 pages from CNN) about this election here in the USA as well. These aren't hypothetical. These are factual from our election. The racial divide is obvious, so I'll just skip that. Blacks were overwhelmingly for Obama. Whites were close to split. Gender was a bigger spread with Women evenly split and Men leaning slightly towards McCain. (We'll get to the brainpower behind them later). What many found interesting was that Hispanics were overwhelmingly in the Obama camp. I define overwhelming as 60% or more. In terms of age groups, they start at the youngest as heavily Obama and as it moved towards the older, it became more towards Obama but only the over 65 set was fully in support of McCain. Older people are more change adverse, more closed minded, and more influenced by stereotypes. This is to be expected, though certainly not applauded.
What was surprising to everyone was the vote by income. The poor clearly went democratic and that was a surprise to nobody. The middle class was evenly split. What shocked everyone is the very wealthiest -- those making over $200,000 a year -- the ones who should never vote democratic in order to preserve their wealth -- voted Obama by a solid margin. That proves that the uber-rich actually voted not in their self-interest, but with those of the country.
Not surprising is the race/education split. Those who are white and are not educated were very strongly in the McCain camp whilst those who are educated were in the Obama camp. This says a great deal about the Quality of his voters. Draw your own conclusions. Liberals and Moderates voted overwhelmingly for Obama. But Only 78% of conservatives voted for McCain proving he wasn't the right candidate.
The Republicans have to learn to stop pandering to the Right-Wing Zealots. Those embarassing excuses for humans are not enough to win/lose an election. If McCain would have been himself and ignored them, he'd have fared NO WORSE in the election. Maybe he'd have done better if he wasn't like a flag in the wind: always changing direction. Voter feelings were an issue too. If McCain were elected 53% of the country was concerned or scared. You can't even be elected with that number.
The religious vote was pretty cool. Only protestants voted for McCain. All other religions were predominantly in the Obama camp including Catholics. And if you break it down by actual chruch attendance instead of simple identification the results are almost laughable. Even the Evangelical vote wasn't good for McCain. He lost 24% of that, too. Yeah, Evangelicals for Obama. Really.
The marital status divide wasn't significant so I'm going to skip that. However gun owners where overwhelmingly for McCain. That's not a surprise but at least he did solidly win one category. I'm not sure he should be proud of that. While military members were for McCain, 54% is not a huge margin. And if you are so concerned about Obama being a "star" the polls also show that Clinton would have beat McCain too. He wasn't going to win this election. The numbers are convincing. I was amused at the fact that nearly a quarter of gay voters were in the McCain camp. Why would you vote for someone who hates you?
In terms of region Urban voters were for Obama, Suburban also for Obama but less convincingly, and only rural voters were for McCain. (So to keep track so far: we have uneducated, racist, evangelical hicks for McCain. I'm kidding, it's not quite like that but it amuses me greatly.)
In the vice presidential sweepstakes 66% of the people thought Biden was qualified to be President if necessary. Palin? 38%. That had to hurt McCain. Palin was offensive to many people. It cost him votes, hurt his credibility. She's so far right it makes Bush look liberal. I also think she's a moldy (insert word that rhymes with punt), but that's my opinion.
Where Obama was hurt was experience. He needs to address that by surrounding himself with the best and brightest. Confidence in his experience level was split almost 50/50 and that can't be good. McCain clobbered him in this area, and rightfully so I will admit. And as to whether the candidates were "in touch with people like you" -- Obama won that by mind-altering proportions. Though I don't believe any politician is in touch with someone like me. Seriously.
Those negative TV ads really did a number on McCain too. Only 49% of the people thought Obama's ads were unfair but 64% of people though McCain's were unfair. That's nothing to be proud of. And, as Bill Clinton reminded us, and the voters clearly remember: it's the economy, stupid. The numbers are huge. And that's probably what did it. I think many people who normally wouldn't vote for a Democrat, a Black, a Liberal finally said "I'm mad as Hell, and am not going to take it anymore"** and collectively sent a big "fuck you" to the Republican party. The bailout, for the record, is overwhelmingly opposed by the entire country. The war in Iraq is overwhelmingly disliked. And 75% of our population thinks the country is on the wrong track and that is a repudiation of the the Bush administration, and a well-deserved one too. Sadly 9% of the people voting admitted that "race was a factor" -- how many people didn't admit it. Yet Obama won in spite of that.
The vote wasn't close -- a 7 million vote spread in the popular vote tells you, it is time for a change. Everyone has figured it out, and many of the McCain supporters are gracious about it, much like he was. But not everyone. Over at my message boards, there is at least one person who just doesn't get it. And he's the sort of person that has put America in the straits it is in. Some people continue to vote for self-interest over interest of the country as a whole. The president is by the people and for the people. The president is not for YOU. The president is for US. These are the people who claim to be patriots, but they are the worst our country has to offer. I don't really want to pick on this person, but besides the few people still posting I've received a few notes from my Republican friends asking "what is wrong with him" and I just can't answer. Myopic tunnel-vision, I suppose.
Life will go on. America is a new country. A shining beacon for the world, once again. The president of France has announced an initiative to change his country because they thought what we did was amazing. And people around the world danced in the streets over OUR election. That ought tell you something. When was the last time that happened? Oh, right. Never.
You experienced history in the making.
* Iraq, Cuba, Congo, and Algeria went with McCain. I would assume the first two are because of a high us military presence with Internet access. But even those four the margin was NOT substantial.
** Howard Beale (Network, Peter Finch, a classic)
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Naked Emotions
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” – This from the Declaration of Independence. I once used that quote in a story I wrote. I’m using it here. It also pertains.
In a previous blog post, I mentioned I could pack up and leave and it wouldn’t be a big deal because almost nobody would notice and even fewer would care. In the 9 November 2008 PostSecret (a great blog if you don’t read it), there was a postcard that said: “… I wanted to move somewhere where nobody knew who I was …. Then I did, and realized it didn’t make everything magically better.” So I got to thinking. That post card is absolutely right. Everything would not be magically better. Obviously. But it wouldn’t be any worse. There’s still nothing stopping me right at the moment, except finances. So the bottom line there is it is coming, will come, will happen. There’s only one thing that might stop it, but more on that later.
And after thinking it through, I have discarded the idea of a tattoo, though there is still some small visceral appeal to it. It does seem too “mid-life crisis” to me. Maybe in a year or two if it still amuses me, I’ll do it. Not now. And no earrings either. This past week a friend and his wife tried to get me to do that. It’s just not me at all. I did get a pinky ring. I wore one for many years, and stopped about six or eight years ago. I decided to try again.
Also there is a big announcement coming. One that is long overdue, I suppose. I’m not happy about it, of course, but life is what it is. Sometimes you have to do bad things as well as good things. I have to wait until it’s confirmed and then I may share it. Or maybe not.
Anyway, all this stuff had me thinking. And yes, I know, I think too much. So lets go back to the first quote I opened with. Hold on to that, because it’s important. “The ways of the Lord are impossible to understand and always ugly.” At least that’s what one of my editors of the aforementioned story said to me in a recent discussion. I concur. The Lord is a very mean person because if he exists, he's not been kind to me.
There are lots of things in life I want, and I've come to realize that I'm not getting them. None of them really matter to me now except one, though. In life, everybody wants lots of things, and you can’t have them all.
Sometimes, something happens in your life. Something that changes everything. It doesn’t matter if you want that change or not. It comes. In this case, I didn’t want it, didn’t expect it, but am happy it came. But this one thing, it’s a Big Thing. It’s a secret that I’ve not shared with anyone. Nor will I. I'm willing to give up everything I have to get this one thing.
I'm trying to figure out how to make that happen. I'm quite literally willing to give up everything if I can make this happen. But the bitch is in the details. I'm trying to figure it out. I will. One day. Or die trying. It's a need and it's been consuming me these past four weeks. I'm trying to banish it from my head, but I can't. I don't sleep, just sit in bed and think. I’m the walking dead and it’s all I think about: and I don’t mean this in a bad way. It is quite the mental trial.
What’s caused this vexation? Well I’ve realized that out of Life, Liberty, and Happiness, I get to pick one and one only. Once I pick it, the rest follow or not based on the choices I am about to make. That leaves me with one choice. Actually, there isn’t a choice. I’m going to go for Happiness, even if it’s a short burst of it. The die is cast and it’s only a matter of figuring out how to make it work. I figure just about three years maximum, but I do hope it doesn’t take that long.
From a mental standpoint, I think I am a mess. Happily, I do have a very small group of friends I can discuss this with. I think I’ve mentioned that before. I’ve had half the discussion already with one person. I just gotta’ screw up the courage for the other half. There are two halves: the disastrous half and the apocalyptic half. Hey, if you’re gonna’ do something, do it right.
I'd be a little more direct but there are people reading this blog who I'd rather didn't so I must be careful how I say things. Sometimes popularity isn't always good.
In a previous blog post, I mentioned I could pack up and leave and it wouldn’t be a big deal because almost nobody would notice and even fewer would care. In the 9 November 2008 PostSecret (a great blog if you don’t read it), there was a postcard that said: “… I wanted to move somewhere where nobody knew who I was …. Then I did, and realized it didn’t make everything magically better.” So I got to thinking. That post card is absolutely right. Everything would not be magically better. Obviously. But it wouldn’t be any worse. There’s still nothing stopping me right at the moment, except finances. So the bottom line there is it is coming, will come, will happen. There’s only one thing that might stop it, but more on that later.
And after thinking it through, I have discarded the idea of a tattoo, though there is still some small visceral appeal to it. It does seem too “mid-life crisis” to me. Maybe in a year or two if it still amuses me, I’ll do it. Not now. And no earrings either. This past week a friend and his wife tried to get me to do that. It’s just not me at all. I did get a pinky ring. I wore one for many years, and stopped about six or eight years ago. I decided to try again.
Also there is a big announcement coming. One that is long overdue, I suppose. I’m not happy about it, of course, but life is what it is. Sometimes you have to do bad things as well as good things. I have to wait until it’s confirmed and then I may share it. Or maybe not.
Anyway, all this stuff had me thinking. And yes, I know, I think too much. So lets go back to the first quote I opened with. Hold on to that, because it’s important. “The ways of the Lord are impossible to understand and always ugly.” At least that’s what one of my editors of the aforementioned story said to me in a recent discussion. I concur. The Lord is a very mean person because if he exists, he's not been kind to me.
There are lots of things in life I want, and I've come to realize that I'm not getting them. None of them really matter to me now except one, though. In life, everybody wants lots of things, and you can’t have them all.
Sometimes, something happens in your life. Something that changes everything. It doesn’t matter if you want that change or not. It comes. In this case, I didn’t want it, didn’t expect it, but am happy it came. But this one thing, it’s a Big Thing. It’s a secret that I’ve not shared with anyone. Nor will I. I'm willing to give up everything I have to get this one thing.
I'm trying to figure out how to make that happen. I'm quite literally willing to give up everything if I can make this happen. But the bitch is in the details. I'm trying to figure it out. I will. One day. Or die trying. It's a need and it's been consuming me these past four weeks. I'm trying to banish it from my head, but I can't. I don't sleep, just sit in bed and think. I’m the walking dead and it’s all I think about: and I don’t mean this in a bad way. It is quite the mental trial.
What’s caused this vexation? Well I’ve realized that out of Life, Liberty, and Happiness, I get to pick one and one only. Once I pick it, the rest follow or not based on the choices I am about to make. That leaves me with one choice. Actually, there isn’t a choice. I’m going to go for Happiness, even if it’s a short burst of it. The die is cast and it’s only a matter of figuring out how to make it work. I figure just about three years maximum, but I do hope it doesn’t take that long.
From a mental standpoint, I think I am a mess. Happily, I do have a very small group of friends I can discuss this with. I think I’ve mentioned that before. I’ve had half the discussion already with one person. I just gotta’ screw up the courage for the other half. There are two halves: the disastrous half and the apocalyptic half. Hey, if you’re gonna’ do something, do it right.
I'd be a little more direct but there are people reading this blog who I'd rather didn't so I must be careful how I say things. Sometimes popularity isn't always good.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Another Pair of Book Reviews (Graveyard Book and Things Not Seen)
I have just finished two more books. Flights home from Vegas will do that to you.
I read Neil Gaiman's new "The Graveyard Book" -- and it was fantastic. Really, really good. It's a nice little young adult fantasy novel involving a real boy who lives in a graveyard. There's nothing specific I liked about the book but it's well done and you just become involved as you read it. It's a quick read and is relatively short. But it's got some really interesting premises going on. I think you guys will like this one.
The other was "Things Not Seen" by Andrew Clements. This one's not my typical book because it's just plain ol' fiction. Not fantasy or sci-fi. It's a boy meets girl tale starring a 15 year old kid who happens to turn invisible and a girl who happens to be blind. You'll find yourself smiling through the entire thing. Nothing heady or complex but just a good book. There are some parts you'll wonder why the hero isn't a typical horny kid, but I don't suppose it matters. I can't give the spoiler, but you'll see.
Nation. Wow. (See review a few days ago). Really read that book.
I am cranky and jet lagged. Scooter doesn't appear well and I am concerned. I'll wait until tomorrow to see if it's just a quick thing or she needs to go the vet.
I read Neil Gaiman's new "The Graveyard Book" -- and it was fantastic. Really, really good. It's a nice little young adult fantasy novel involving a real boy who lives in a graveyard. There's nothing specific I liked about the book but it's well done and you just become involved as you read it. It's a quick read and is relatively short. But it's got some really interesting premises going on. I think you guys will like this one.
The other was "Things Not Seen" by Andrew Clements. This one's not my typical book because it's just plain ol' fiction. Not fantasy or sci-fi. It's a boy meets girl tale starring a 15 year old kid who happens to turn invisible and a girl who happens to be blind. You'll find yourself smiling through the entire thing. Nothing heady or complex but just a good book. There are some parts you'll wonder why the hero isn't a typical horny kid, but I don't suppose it matters. I can't give the spoiler, but you'll see.
Nation. Wow. (See review a few days ago). Really read that book.
I am cranky and jet lagged. Scooter doesn't appear well and I am concerned. I'll wait until tomorrow to see if it's just a quick thing or she needs to go the vet.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Barack Obama: President Elect. Congratulations!
Congratulations to President-Elect Barack Obama for winning a decisive, historic victory. The electoral college will show a huge win. The popular vote will show otherwise -- it's pretty close like the last two elections. Less than 10% is still close, but it is a mandate by the people and a sign that it's time for change.
And while McCain's concession speech was very nice and gentlemanly, his audience seems to be rather uncouth as they are not bright enough as a group to follow their leader and be graceful. Obama's speech was not quite as good as McCain's but Obama seems presidential. McCain's speech was very presidential and maybe if he showed that he might have had a better chance. But Palin cost him the election.
America proved it has come a long way. As a whole the majority of us picked the right candidate. It wasn't divided by region. It was a collective vote by all the people realizing we need to change the course of this country. Our freedoms have been compromised, our ideals sold out, and now, maybe, we can fix it.
And now, we boldly go into a new future for America, Americans, and the World.
PS: Palin can now go get her daughter an abortion. Good riddance to Palin.
And while McCain's concession speech was very nice and gentlemanly, his audience seems to be rather uncouth as they are not bright enough as a group to follow their leader and be graceful. Obama's speech was not quite as good as McCain's but Obama seems presidential. McCain's speech was very presidential and maybe if he showed that he might have had a better chance. But Palin cost him the election.
America proved it has come a long way. As a whole the majority of us picked the right candidate. It wasn't divided by region. It was a collective vote by all the people realizing we need to change the course of this country. Our freedoms have been compromised, our ideals sold out, and now, maybe, we can fix it.
And now, we boldly go into a new future for America, Americans, and the World.
PS: Palin can now go get her daughter an abortion. Good riddance to Palin.
Elton John's Red Piano: The Review
Red Piano. Yay. I've wanted to see Elton's Red Piano show since it opened but Elton never checked his schedule with mine and every chance I ever had to be in Vegas, Elton was elsewhere. I usually missed him by just a few days. Finally, courtesy of Greg and Gaby, we had tickets for the show last night. The seats were okay from a distance issue but not so much from an angle perspective.
So the set list was fantastic.
The set itself had nots of neon which comes on and off including some more adult themed stuff including a sign that says "Cocktail" where only on syllable is illuminated at a time. There are also the large inflatable advertising type ballons. There are legs, boobies (the biggest pair of boobies that you've ever seen which, later in the show, lactate over the audience), and bananas and cherries in a very suggestive layout.
There are signs warning concertgoers that this is an adult show that includes full frontal nudity. There is an enormous video screen -- even by Vegas standards. There are all sorts of random images and some of them include lots of naked ladies, though it's pretty artistic and I can't imagine anyone actually being offended by it. Some of it is, though, decidedly weird. Then again, it IS Elton....
There were also clips from various videos including the famous one of Justin Timberlake as Elton John. It also features Pamela Anderson, Pee-Wee Herman, That was filmed for "This Train Don't Stop Here" but it was sent to a different song.
Elton talks to the audience and seems to be having fun. Most of the show is light on bass and heavy on treble until the encore bit at the end where it reverses. Elton's voice is good but not great but maybe it was an off night. But he threw himself into it and it was just a really enjoyable phone.
I have decided, for now, not to get the tattoo I previously mentioned. Or more accurately to wait until next summer. If I still want it then, I'll get it. I figure since it's a permanent decision I ought to make sure it's just not some sort of mid-life crisis.
I am watching election returns on CNN as I sit here typing. Or videos of bazillion of people in line really. VOTE FOR OBAMA!
So the set list was fantastic.
- Bennie And The Jets
- Philadelphia Freedom
- Believe
- Daniel
- Rocket Man
- I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
- Tiny Dancer
- Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me
- I Want Love
- Candle In The Wind
- Pinball Wizard
- The Bitch Is Back
- I'm Still Standing
- Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)
- Your Song
The set itself had nots of neon which comes on and off including some more adult themed stuff including a sign that says "Cocktail" where only on syllable is illuminated at a time. There are also the large inflatable advertising type ballons. There are legs, boobies (the biggest pair of boobies that you've ever seen which, later in the show, lactate over the audience), and bananas and cherries in a very suggestive layout.
There are signs warning concertgoers that this is an adult show that includes full frontal nudity. There is an enormous video screen -- even by Vegas standards. There are all sorts of random images and some of them include lots of naked ladies, though it's pretty artistic and I can't imagine anyone actually being offended by it. Some of it is, though, decidedly weird. Then again, it IS Elton....
There were also clips from various videos including the famous one of Justin Timberlake as Elton John. It also features Pamela Anderson, Pee-Wee Herman, That was filmed for "This Train Don't Stop Here" but it was sent to a different song.
Elton talks to the audience and seems to be having fun. Most of the show is light on bass and heavy on treble until the encore bit at the end where it reverses. Elton's voice is good but not great but maybe it was an off night. But he threw himself into it and it was just a really enjoyable phone.
I have decided, for now, not to get the tattoo I previously mentioned. Or more accurately to wait until next summer. If I still want it then, I'll get it. I figure since it's a permanent decision I ought to make sure it's just not some sort of mid-life crisis.
I am watching election returns on CNN as I sit here typing. Or videos of bazillion of people in line really. VOTE FOR OBAMA!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
The Murphy Post: It's all His Fault (plus Nation Book Review)
First, my original flight was cancelled months ago, so I was re-booked on the afternoon flight. I e-mailed the legendary media-whore and American Airlines pilot VanMurph and told him he should arrange to fly my flight. It's too bad he didn't because I had a surprise for him. I had a copy of the article from US News and World Report with his photo in it. I was going to commandeer the flight PA system and embarass him. "Hi, I'm a friend of Captain Murph and I have something to share with the passengers on this flight." I had it all worked out except he didn't show :(
Anyway, we had a gate change because the flight to Port-Au-Prince was still at the gate. We go to the new gate and leave almost on time. Yay. We get to Vegas a little late and are mid-landing when the pilot veers out over the strip. Aborted landing due to "traffic spacing" -- I've been in a few of these and this was relatively minor, though he didn't bother to explain until he finished the maneuver, leaving most of the passengers confused.
He landed the plane. And I use the term "landed" loosely. Apparently he forgot that you touch down the rear wheels, then the nose. He decided that it's okay to go full throttle and all four wheels to the pavement at the same time. Joy.
I wait for my luggage and wait and wait and wait. It never shows. I go to bag services. Everyone who checked in at MIA in the elite line was missing luggage. The lady there was rude, and uncaring. We asked her to call MIA to see if they had the bags or not. She said she couldn't. Apparently the phone was too complex. She really pissed off the guy in front of me. I asked her questions about my luggage like what "AFM" meant which is what she said the computer said. She said she didn't know. I finally left and called AA bag services from the hotel. They were nicer but couldn't even tell me if my bags were on the next flight. They said they'd reimburse me for some underwear and such. So I went shopping. Lovely first day in Vegas,
My bags were here this morning. Yay.
Lastly, I read the new Terry Pratchett novel, Nation and it's amazing. You want this book. It's not quite like anything he's every written. I just got absorbed into it straight away and through the end. I'm giving this 9 out of 10. If I hadn't read the epilogue, I'd have given it a 10 of 10. It's the story of Mau (an island boy) and Daphne (a girl of class) who come to meet and the story of their journey to adulthood sort of. It's a kids book but it isn't a kid's book. Wow. No wonder I love his stuff. This is his best book. Ever.
And as an added side bonus, someone was online this morning when I was using my laptop and that made my day a WHOLE lot better.
I gotta go to my seminar with the Department of Homeland Security now. Peace out, readers :)
Anyway, we had a gate change because the flight to Port-Au-Prince was still at the gate. We go to the new gate and leave almost on time. Yay. We get to Vegas a little late and are mid-landing when the pilot veers out over the strip. Aborted landing due to "traffic spacing" -- I've been in a few of these and this was relatively minor, though he didn't bother to explain until he finished the maneuver, leaving most of the passengers confused.
He landed the plane. And I use the term "landed" loosely. Apparently he forgot that you touch down the rear wheels, then the nose. He decided that it's okay to go full throttle and all four wheels to the pavement at the same time. Joy.
I wait for my luggage and wait and wait and wait. It never shows. I go to bag services. Everyone who checked in at MIA in the elite line was missing luggage. The lady there was rude, and uncaring. We asked her to call MIA to see if they had the bags or not. She said she couldn't. Apparently the phone was too complex. She really pissed off the guy in front of me. I asked her questions about my luggage like what "AFM" meant which is what she said the computer said. She said she didn't know. I finally left and called AA bag services from the hotel. They were nicer but couldn't even tell me if my bags were on the next flight. They said they'd reimburse me for some underwear and such. So I went shopping. Lovely first day in Vegas,
My bags were here this morning. Yay.
Lastly, I read the new Terry Pratchett novel, Nation and it's amazing. You want this book. It's not quite like anything he's every written. I just got absorbed into it straight away and through the end. I'm giving this 9 out of 10. If I hadn't read the epilogue, I'd have given it a 10 of 10. It's the story of Mau (an island boy) and Daphne (a girl of class) who come to meet and the story of their journey to adulthood sort of. It's a kids book but it isn't a kid's book. Wow. No wonder I love his stuff. This is his best book. Ever.
And as an added side bonus, someone was online this morning when I was using my laptop and that made my day a WHOLE lot better.
I gotta go to my seminar with the Department of Homeland Security now. Peace out, readers :)
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