Time to get ZOMBIFIED!!

Oh yeah, the new "remake" of Day of the Dead is coming!

I LURVE me some Romero Zombie movies! Rewatched "Dawn of the Dead" this weekend. I'm still partial to the old one, but the new one has the added "gore" and "creep-out" factors that the old version just couldn't get past the censors.

Oh yes, and I had to close and lock every window and put down every rolladen before we got to far into it. Didn't want no zombies breakin' in and disturbing my movie, damn it! I like to scare the crap out of myself, but within my comfort limits. I'm such a dip!



Joked with hubby about destroying the "Land of the Dead" disk. That movie sucks ass! I mean, I've seen some terrible zombie flicks in my time, but for Romero to make that trash and then proudly attach his name is a disgrace to the zombie genre!


George Romero's official site. I'm ashamed for all zombiephiles that the crap movie is getting top billing.

Save yourself the trouble of buying that jumped up on crack wanna-be zombie flick and go buy the "vintage" ones. And the remake of "Dawn of the Dead".

Go get Zombiefied, then head over to OK Cupid for some good, bad and sometimes downright stupid zombie tests.

Just don't come back shufflin', moanin' and bloody or I'll know you've joined the UNDEAD, and well, there's only one way to cure that! ;)

Last Call!

Don't forget, you have until 23:59:59 to cast your vote for the August Book poll. There's currently one vote per book, so if you want YOUR'S to win, get folks votin', or I'll have to break the tie and well, heaven knows what book you'll end up with that way! :)

Also, posts will need to be up NLT 02 August. If you want me to post your review, you've got one day to e-mail it to me. If you're doing the post, send me an e-mail or leave a comment so I can get your post linked.

Good night ya'll! :z

2996

Project 2996 is in need of YOUR help! With the number of folks who have signed up so far, we should reach approx. 2000 names come 9-11-06. That's almost 1000 short of the those who died.

We need MORE volunteers! Please visit 2996 and sign-up to make a post. Give each and every one of them back their voices, return their faces, make them human again instead of just a number.

If you can help, please put up a post on your own, or make a post requesting volunteers. Thanks!

ACK!

It sucks to have only one vehicle, and a POS at that! The truck's AC Compressor went out ond hubby's drive back from his TDY...We didn't find out what the issue was until we took it to a AAFES New Car Sales repair place (not the dealer).

Miotti in Aviano told us what needed replacing but as they only do service, they can't order the parts themselves. So, we need a NEW 2000 Dodge Dakota A/C Compressor (with clutch), new gasket kit, and a new serpentine belt. Why a new belt? Because Dodge in it's infinite wisdom decided to use ONE BELT fop the ENTIRE engine. If the AC Compressor stops going totally, it takes the WHOLE ENGINE along with it! That is sheer stupidity on the part of the "design" team and Dodge for manufacturing it.

Long story slightly shorter, I've been busting my not unample arse trying to find one that's not gonna break the frikin' bank! The Crysler dealer/repair center in Pordenone wants €1000.27 = approx. $1270.35 (that's the tax FREE price) and we'll have to wait about 2 weeks for the parts then schedule the repair.

I've found some cheaper parts online, AVOID MOPAR/DODGE if possible - they jack up the price substantially. AAFES has them all for about $480.00 so we may go with them (you get free shipping).

If anyone knows of somewhere to buy these parts without "remanufacture" or "salvage" I'd greatly appreciate it. I've looked at so damn many auto-parts websites that my eyes are refusing to focus! :D

Daily CENTCOM Briefings

Today is a busy, BUSY day in Iraq. Not that you'd know by the msm. So, go to the "horse's mouth" instead of the "horse's ahem...ASS".

MND-B SOLDIERS DETAIN TERRORISTS, FIND WEAPONS CACHES & ROADSIDE BOMBS IN BABIL

IRAQI FORCES DIVERT MISSION TO AID CITIZEN IN DISTRESS

MND-B PATROL CAPTURES 6 DETAINEES, UNEARTHS WEAPONS CACHE

IPs, MND-B SOLDIERS SEIZE WEAPONS, DETAIN SUSPECTS

IA, MND-B SOLDIERS CAPTURE WEAPONS, MUNITIONS, 5 DETAINEES

1ST BCT SOLDIERS SEIZE WEAPONS, MUNITIONS

COALITION FORCES CAPTURE TERRORIST AND ASSOCIATE NORTH OF TIKRIT


And don't forget to read up on the Operation Iraqi Freedom page Controlling security in Baghdad key to security throughout Iraq. It tries to balance the power vacum still currently ongoing in Baghdad (and other areas) with the known, proveable forward movements in Iraq's democracy elsewhere. It offers suggestions on what needs to be done, but it remains to be seen if it will be done. Worth the time though.

Recent CENTCOM Briefings

These are some of the recent CENTCOM briefings, did YOU know about them? If not, be sure to visit CENTCOM for the lastest briefings (by region if desired) and to sign up for their newsletter. Don't forget to have a look through their latest photos either!


I have taken the liberty of removing personal e-mail address and contact details to avoid spambots.

Title:


COALITION FORCES CONDUCT RAID NORTH OF BALAD

Release Date:


7/25/2006

Release Number:


06-07-02P

Description:


BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed one terrorist, wounded another and detained one associate during a raid north of Balad on the morning of June 24.



Reliable intelligence indicates that the targeted terrorists were associated with numerous senior al-Qaida in Iraq members including two local Emirs. The group is also reported to be tied to another recently captured individual who had previously led the overall network and has since admitted to countless attacks on Iraqi civilians.



While the troops were moving to the target area they encountered two armed terrorists who attempted to engage the ground force. The ground force immediately engaged the terrorists killing one and wounding the other. The wounded terrorist was provided immediate first aid on site.



Multiple men fled the immediate target area upon arrival of the assault force. The ground force then quickly contained and secured the target area.



The troops pursued and ultimately detained another suspect.



******************************************************




Title:


IRAQI FORCE RAID TAKES DOWN 'DEATH SQUAD' CELL IN BAGHDAD

Release Date:


7/25/2006

Release Number:


06-07-02P

Description:


BALAD – Iraqi Army forces conducted a pre-dawn raid in Baghdad on July 25, capturing six targeted insurgents, all of whom are believed to be involved in ‘death squad’ activities.

As coalition force advisers looked on, Iraqi forces raided an objective in southwest Baghdad consisting of four separate buildings and captured the cell leader and five other key members of an insurgent ‘punishment committee.’



Iraqi forces also seized two AK-47 assault rifles, one pistol, and one set of body armor.



The operation occurred without incident; there were no Iraqi or coalition force casualties.





Multinational Corps – Iraq
Joint Operations Center
Public Affairs Officer



*******************************************************

Title:


ENEMY FIGHTERS ATTACK COALITION UNIT, SEVEN EXTREMISTS KILLED

Release Date:


7/26/2006

Release Number:


06-07-02P

Description:


BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – A Coalition patrol killed seven extremists on July 25 after they attacked Coalition forces in the Garmser District of Helmand Province.

There were no Coalition casualties in the fight. The Coalition unit received small arms, rocket-propelled grenade, machine gun and sniper fire from a group of extremists. The Coalition force returned fire, killing five insurgents


Later in the same area, insurgents fired small arms at an Afghan National Army mortar team, with a Coalition embedded tactical training team attached. The combined unit responded with machine gun fire and killed the remaining two insurgents.


“If enemy extremists fire upon Coalition forces, we will respond with deadly accuracy,” said Lt. Col. Paul Fitzpatrick, Combined Joint Task Force -76 spokesman. “If they attack Afghan civilians, we will respond just as forcefully. We remain committed to engaging any threats to the peaceful future of the Afghan people.”


Afghan National Security forces continue to maintain a strong presence in the area of Garmser and provide security that will enable reconstruction and humanitarian aid projects to be delivered that will improve the lives of the Afghan people.

Oh, and you should have heard about CENTCOM recently. Why? They're the ones in charge of getting US citizens out of Lebannon...Not that the MSM calls them anything other than "US Soldiers / Marines". Just to set the record straight...Honest and Acurate.

Not Gone

Just too damn hot to type much. House is well above 32Centigrade (appx. 90F). I'm already hot, don't need to "angry up" the blood and raise my temperature more. ;)


Hubby was recently on the receiving end of our 'good neighbor' who told him not to yell at his children. IE, hubby shouldn't yell at OUR children. That woman is too damn big for her britches and I'm gonna laugh my ass off when she gets slapped back down to where she belongs. I'm currently just enjoying annoying the shit out of her and letting her dig her own hole. So much fun to watch - she thinks she's sly but baby she's gonna learn what sly is and she ain't!

But it is nice to have him be told something. She doesn't have the balls to say anything to me - I don't even know her name, seriously! They've lived next door about 9 months and I don't have a clue wtf any of their names are, but I might - if pressed, be able to figure out which kid is their's.

Anyhoo, when all this shit started, hubby was deployed (US military speak for the crap places) and gave me a "you MUST have started something" when she started this crap. I most certainly did NOT! If I do shit, I don't hide behind my husband, you'll know just who did what, and why. Fast forward to a few days ago and she decided to start shit with him. Bad, bad, BAD move.

For the record, hubby was NOT yelling. If he was yelling, every military member around here would be at our front door at attention - no parade rest shit neither. That man was no where NEAR yelling, he just has a booming voice.

That chick don't know what she just started. You do NOT get between my husband and his children. The old "mama bear and her cub" ain't got nothin' on my husband and taking care of his kids. I'm just gonna sit back, watch and maybe make some popcorn. This is gonna be enjoyable. I love a good bitchslappin'! Especially when it's a jumped up junior enlisted goin' up against more rank that her hubby's ever gonna get if she keeps this shit up. She's already decided to play the military game baby, and rank has it's rewards, especially when attacked by somebody WAY down on the totem poll.

Anybody wanna come watch it play out? :D

New Poll

Okay ya'll, the poll for next month's book selection is available for your voting pleasure.

Remember, 1 week until the poll results come in, and the new book is selected.

Also, 1 week until your reviews for "The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress" - Robert A. Heinlein are due to be posted. If you'd like ME to post your review, please e-mail it to me (a_texan_abroad_ATyahooDOTcom).

Wah Wah says UN

HAHAHA says Rhianna.

Jan Egeland - UN's "humanitarian" chief has said Isreal's aerial bombardment of Beirut is a CRIME! WHY you ask?

Jan Egeland said Israel's targeting of a crowded neighbourhood in Beirut was a violation of humanitarian law.

His comments came as he toured the shattered Haret Hreik district where Hizbollah had had its headquarters.

Bolding by me.


Let's recap that. Dude is touring a neighborhood where Hizbollah had had its headquarters. Did you notice WHY I bolded that statement?

Hizbollah HAD HAD their headquarters there. During the previous bombings Israel wiped it off the face of the map, along with their bunker.

Now WHY would Israel bomb a "Hreik district" if it was civillian? There WERE civillians there, who KNEW Hizbollah had their headquarters there, and that Israel was gonna bomb it. How did they know? Israel was dropping leaflets prior to the bombing, as required by the GC.

"For your own safety and because of our desire not to harm any civilians who are not involved (with Hizbollah), you should refrain from staying in areas where Hizbollah is present and operating," said the Arabic-language leaflets, signed "The State of Israel".

- the Message in the leaflets as reported by Reuters.


You are NOT gonna get any sympathy out of me if you're livin' or "vacationing" in Lebannon. (WTF vacations in Lebannon??) Especially if your stupid ass doesn't read the Arabic writin flowin on the breeze. You litte f*cktards KNEW Hizbollah was using your ass, and your children, you spouse, your parents, your yadayadayada as human sheilds. You don't get to bitch now that Israel is bombing, JUST LIKE THEY SAID THEY WOULD, and you're stupid enough to stay there. I hereby nominate all residents of Beirut, who are still stupid enough to stay with Hizbollah, for Darwin Awards.

(On a side note, anyone hear anything about Hizbollah droping leaflets in Hebrew concerning their rocket attacks on Haifa? How bout before they raided the border, killed some IDF troops and then kidnapped 2 more? Nope, and not a f*ckin' peep from the "UN"...OR the Arab Street. Wonder why that is...)

I also don't pity Lebannon's government and their "it's Hizbollah, not us" route. YOU little f*cktards knew where Hizbollah was, what they were doing, and you've done NOTHING to disarm them, imprison or kill the terrorists, or secure your border with Israel. The Israelis have now taken the job out of your inept and refusing hands and are doing it themselves.


In short, ally yourself with a terrorist, allow them to use YOUR country to attack a neighbor and YOU'RE gonna catch some blowback. Deal with it.

Ally yourself with a terrorist and allow them to "hide" amongst your women's skirts and your children's cradles and YOU'RE gonna get bombed too. Deal with it.

All actions have consequences and now 60+ years of trying to "push the jews into the sea" is comin' ta get ya. And you can't blame Israel because she was ATTACKED, after LEAVING Lebannon in a "MidEast Peace Deal". Hizbollah and the Lebannese have blood on their hands...And it don't wash off so easy - no matter what Syria and Iran tell you. Guess ya'll just have to learn this lesson the hard way. This one has a STEEP learning curve, so pay attention.

"How Does Your Garden Grow"

Mary, Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With silver bells and cockleshells,
And pretty maids all in a row.

Well, my name isn't Mary but I think you'd be hard pressed to find anyone that didn't think me contrary.

I don't have silver bells or cockleshells or pretty maids but I do happen to have some Bluebonnets. Alamo Fire variety and regular...plus a



















SUPRISE!! An albino bluebonnet. Wonder how often those things happen?

Red X's on the wall

Jack Army is preparing for his deployment.

If ya'll can, stop in and give him some support. He's a damn fine Milblogger and an honorable soldier who wear's your uniform. Take the time to wish him well, and don't forget to let Katy know you're thinkin' of him too.

Stress!

One of the reasons it sucks to be overseas and away from family. Hubby's stress level is at a level I've never seen it at before. That in turn drives mine up because I of course want to "fix" the shit causin' his stress to skyrocket and can't.

I'd really like to farm my kids out to relatives for the weekend and just focus on hubby and me time. I'll do my best after they've gone to bed (might even roll their bedtime back).

Any suggestions would be appreciated. I have a few ideas but I'm happy to see what else works for other folks, especially military or prior military. And please God and Goddess don't suggest Golf. He'd die from the stress level that word would induce as it's a major cause of issues at work right now.

I'm thinking candles, a "romantic" adult dinner (just the two of us), a massage, some soft music. Something to make him forget his stress if only for a little while...Oh and booze. I've got wine in the fridge and Margaritas in the freezer (frozen for over 6 months) so that should be good to help out a little.

CENTCOM Press Release

COMBINED FORCES COMMAND – AFGHANISTAN COALITION PRESS INFORMATION CENTER KABUL, AFGHANISTAN







FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 18, 2006
Release # 060718-07




Extremists linked to drug trade


KABUL , Afghanistan – Coalition Soldiers have seized an estimated $3 million in opium from an extremist compound July 13 after a Coalition patrol held off more than two dozen fighters until additional firepower arrived.
Following the engagement, the Soldiers found five dead extremists, but believe many more were killed.
A search of the compound found 70 kilograms of opium paste, a rocket propelled grenade launcher, four rockets, an AK-47 and ammunition, a passport and other documents.
“Recovering these weapons and drugs increases the safety and security of Afghans, and reduces the danger posed by criminals and extremists who might use those munitions indiscriminately to cause harm on the Afghan people, Afghan security forces or Coalition forces ,” said Col. Thomas Collins, Coalition spokesman. “This engagement also confirms with physical evidence that the extremists are linked to the drug trade in southern Afghanistan .”

Well now, 'holy' warriors for allah having DRUGS? Surely THAT'S a violation of the koran, no? But not a peep from the supposed 'religious leaders' about this...Wonder why that is...

Don't Mess With TEXAS

Yahoo! is hosting a Best Slogan Poll and Don't Mess With TEXAS is on the list.

So, go VOTE!!

Billy Versus Hap

Which proposed new USAF dress blues uniform do YOU like? Hubby and I are both partial to the Billy Mitchell. It's reminiscent of the USMC but that's not a bad thing, it looks like Mitchell's uniform and he is the father of the modern USAF. It's very clean looking, no collar to cause issues, it's not muddied up by overlying material that breaks it's lines.

Proposed Billy Mitchell Heritage Coat

(photo Copyrighted by Todd Lopez and the USAF)


I personally think the Hap Arnold one looks like an idiotic cross between a business suit and a black tie reception jacket. The fact that the ribbon racks are obstructed by the oversized lapels is plain stupid. It's far worse than the current uniform and in general looks like crap.

Proposed Hap Arnold Heritage Coat

Photo Copyright of Todd Lopez and the USAF



Besides, Gen. Mitchell took a beating trying to get the USAF into service decades before it actually happened. He fought an uphill battle against the US Army for it, and was Courts Martialed for attacking repeated incompetence in the way the Army and Navy did their 'own' thing. Rather than be striped of rank, he resigned. That's a black and dirty day in US military history.

The man was a visionary of unimaginable standards. He could have helped immensely in the coming of WWII, which he invisioned happening. Instead he was shunted off and told to 'shut up and color', a favorite miliary tradition of screwing good ideas in favor of idiotic, proven failures. His treatment at the hands of the military is disturbing, but that doesn't take away from his visionary status and ability to make his voice heard (if not listened to). Even today his very name has a tendency to piss off countless Army personell who see him as a "showboater" that "got what he deserved".

It took 80 years to vindicate him, but he's returned to the honored founding father status of the USAF and his uniform is my personal top pick.

My Ticket Spot

THIS is where I got my ticket. Pay close attention...there is ONE road (it winds by the Shoppette parking lot). There is no road (any longer) by the AYP as they built the new sidewalk out to what had been a road - it now totally abuts the Shoppette parking lot. You can ONLY turn, not go straight. But I got a ticket for NOT coming to a complete stop. I don't disagree with the fact I did a TEXAS stop - I did. I do however, find it insane that they'd ticket for it considering you can NOT go any way but right when you leave the Shoppette parking lot.



Oh, on a side note...Hubby expected to get his ass reamed by the 1st Shirt (that's why he looked so pissed). The 1st Shirt did NADA - but only because I was there apparently. He likes to make sure 'his' troops know to keep their spouses on leashes. Coulda fooled me with some of the shit goin' on around here...Anyhoo, the fact I, IIIIII, showed up with the ticket in hand put him off his 'bitch and moan' game and hubby thinks it will come later. I'm seriously tempted to make another nasty appearance at the Shirt's office if he does. If ANYONE is gonna get shit for that ticket, it'll be ME. I do NOT play the military's crapgame and I ain't gonna start now.

Crap, crap, crap and more crap

Anybody need some crap? I've got more than enough in my life, I'm happy to share!

What I believed was taken care of while hubby was TDY was NOT. It now is festering and needs to be dealt with, tonight! Don't nobody wanna come to visit for the next few days, really.


I got a ticket today. On base. I haven't been issued a ticket since 1996 in Austin, Texas to be exact. I've NEVER gotten one on base. Almost a decade of marriage and not a one. Woo Hoo, that pissed hubby off - I took it straight away to the shop. (Sponsor must present self within 24 hours (or next duty day) to Commander or 1st Seargent. I went along as I'M the one that earned the ticket, I'M the one that was driving, if anyone is gonna get in trouble it ought to be me.)

Ofcourse the 8 year-old ratted me out before I could tell him why we were at his office. Shoulda seen the look on his face...Pissed doesn't even begin to cover it! When I handed it to him, he's like "on base?". DUH! WTF else am I gonna get a ticket?? Perhaps he was expecting a big ol' Italian ticket and fine - NOPE.

Rhianna pulled a "TEXAS stop". IE, you yield for a count of 3, then go. My fault, and the cop (poor dude) told me when he handed it to me "thanks for understanding ma'am, most aren't so accepting". I did the manuever, I earned the ticket. Why am I gonna get upset with the SP for doin' his job?? (I'll post a picture of the 'intersection' later, and then you'll understand why most folks don't even do the "TEXAS stop". Oh yeah, 3 other folks got tickets right after me, so I'm nost a totaly knucklehead.)

I've now got 3 points on my license. Something about more than 12 in a 12 month cycle will lose you your license. I don't think that's gonna be a problem any time soon, really. Anywoo hubby's 1st. Shirt apparently isn't used to being presented with tickets having the spouse present. That seemed to have suprised him - do most adults not take responsibility for their actions?


Oh well, gotta post some family photos (look at the family blog, you who are in the know). We've got a practice again today and we're supplying the snack, too. Teddy Grahms and strawberry-kiwi juice boxes. :)

Book Club

You've still got about 2 weeks to read "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Robert A. Heinlein" in case you haven't.

Also, you've got about a week to e-mail (or leave a comment) with any new books you might want to suggest.

Just a reminder. :D

Miss Spider Ideas?

Okay, the littlest heathen has got a Miss Spider theme goin' for her party (in about 2 months). Now, we've got all the party supplies (good hubby/daddy brought them back with him).

Now I need to get some Miss Spider gifts, and hopefully idears on goodie-bags. I'd like to get her some wood puzzles, but I can't find any.

If anyone knows of a good toystore (online) that supplies Ms. Spider and Her Sunny Patch Kids I'd be greatful for a comment or e-mail. I've found some printables and party ideas, but now I'm lookin' for themed presents - and a Pinata too.

"Be Kind to Bugs" ya'll. ;)

Go Isreal!

I honestly can't believe ya'll took that shit for this long, or that the US has tried to make ya'll "play nice" with these ratbastard finks. Do what you need to do to protect yourselves - 60+ years at war keeps you well reminded of what the ovens were like and just who was stokin' 'em.

An Isreal at peace with her beaten and bloodied 'neighbors' is a safer place for the world. Crush them if you need, brutalize those who have brutalized you for 6+ decades and ignore what the news, 'world opinion' and 'arab street' have to say.

I expect nothing less of Isreal as I would tolerate nothing less of the US if we were in the same position.

Jack's Identity Known?

New papers - or rather old papers getting a new airing, are being loaned to Scotland Yard to relauch their Crime Museum.

There is contained therein, supposedly, the name of the person suspected to be the Ripper. Even if a name is there, there is no proof. If there had been, he'd have been arrested (most likely male, I doubt they'd even have considered a woman capable in Victorian England), tried and hung.

I think Jack's Identity will be always a mystery, just as whether or not Lizzie Borden did the crime. Strong suspicion more than 100 years past the date is not the same thing as proof. More hype than history, but interesting none the less - if only that we're still tryin' to puzzle out who it was, and why.

I got em!

I killed the little rat bastards! I HATE flying insects that sting. Flies, mosquitos, bees, wasps, yellowjackets, mud daubers, etc. And I had a nest of yellowjackets in my hedge. I NEVER saw them coming yesterday, I trimmed the front edge of the hedge and BAM!! I got stung on the knucle of my left hand. They were apparently hidin' out behind the honeysuckle vines and climbing rose bushes that come over my hedge (we live next to a farm). Yeah, well I saw 'em today. And I eliminated them, after doing a full scopeout of the rest of the bush - didn't want any nasty suprises or reinforcements showing up unannounced.



I sprayed the little bastards with VAPE 'til they turned white. I waited about 30 mintues, went back out and took their nest out of the bush, then burned it. After burning it as best I could - didn't burn well due to being wet from the VAPE, I stomped it. That's how I was taught to deal with them, torch them if you can, stomp 'em if you can't.



It was apparently a young hive, there were only 4 adults, 1 of which flew off without the full dose of VAPE. However the nest (hive maybe?) was full of larva in varying states. Well, they're now smooshed spots on my sidewalk. I DON'T tolerate stinging insects, especially when my kids play outside. Add in the little bastards stung me yesterday and I was NOT humoring their continued existance.



Oooh, and I got to play yellowjacket baseball. The one that got away started buzzing me while I was trimming up and then raking. So I went and got the broom. Beat his or her little stingin' butt into the ground. I win when the odds are fair - I also cheat to make the odds fair. IE, poison when there's more than 2 against 1.




It's now pouring down rain - it gets hot, it rains, it gets hot, it rains, it gets hot, it rains, yadayadayada. So, I finshed trimming the hedge and got the remains raked up before it started raining. Tomorrow I'll have to pick them up, bag them, and figure out where to trash them because every time I put my green bin (for yard waste) out they won't pick it up. I've got limbs and crap from the LAST time I trimmed still in the green bin because they won't pick it up.

Anyhoo, hopefully tomorrow I can get the yard mowed. It's not really that the grass is long, it's that the WEEDS are long. I also need to weedeat the edges and then I'm pretty much done.




On the subject of weedeating, I tried to be nice on Monday. Yeah, ME being nice, ON a MONDAY. Boggles the mind, don't it?? ;)

I have a very open-brickwork driveway (everyone does) and I let the grass get long before trimming it. It ended up on the neighbor's car (or as I call her - Public Enemy #1) and porch/patio/carport. I honestly didn't notice until it came time to clean up the cuttings. So, I swept up the grass on their porch/patio/carport area, then I walked over, knocked on the door and offered to pay for a carwash. They were havin' none of it, even though I told them it was my fault and would willingly pay so they didn't have to. My grass, my cutting caused it, my responsibility basically - my opinion anyways. They refused, so FUCK 'EM! I'm not nice often (don't accuse me of it either), and if you're gonna be a bitch about it, screw you! I tried, can't be blamed for tryin' but I won't be tryin' to be nice anytime again soon.




Oooh, and I think I ticked off the MSgt. that's our "housing representative" (ie the highest ranking individual in our housing area). He walked to everybody's house to tell them about the upcomming inspection. I was out cleaning the yard up when he let me know about it. I was very short. I was hot, I was tired and I don't like the man. When you play favoritism shit with the idiots next door, I don't pretend to be nice. And just because you show your rank, don't mean I give a rats ass what stripe in on your sleve, you don't scare me and you damn sure don't impress me.

So, I very brusquely said "thank you sir" and went back to cleaning my yard. He asked if hubby was home to help (HELLO!! Hubby left about 6 weeks ago, took the truck, told a couple of neighbors where he was going and you want me to buy you haven't noticed the big f*ckin' Dodge missing from the driveway?? How 'bout the fact that hubby's never home?? I'm not buyin' it!) I said "No, he's TDY". To which he asked if I needed help. HELL NO!! As often as my neighbors have commented on the fact I'M the one that mows, I'm the one that weeds, I'm the one that does the yard you now want to tell me I need HELP? I'm self-sufficent - and hubby has NEVER done the yardwork, I enjoy doing it and we have a deal over it. I told him "no thanks" and again went back to work. You'd have thought this would get the idea through but I guess not. He offered his two sons and himself to help - NOPE! Don't trust any of you shitstirring assholes as far I as I can throw you, not gonna invite the den of vipers into my house, or my yard, thank you very much! I replied something in the region of "no thanks, it's not needed". I think that finally got it through, he went about the rest of his rounds.

Man, apparently putting on stipes for some lowers their IQs. Well, if they had IQs bigger than their shoe size to begin with, that is. How damn many times does it take being told NO before you get the concept?

I didn't start out trying to be rude but I was NOT trying to be nice either. By the end, I WAS being rude as apparently that was what it took to get the message through. Sheesh!




So, in a couple hours we've got volleyball and then I need run a couple errands. Hope ya'll are not gettin' rained on, not gettin' stung and not havin' a housing inspection anytime soon. :D

Damn It!

We've got a housing inspection on Friday and I just got stung by a yellowjacket/wasp. It'll be tomorrow before I can get the damn nest sprayed - it's in my hedge, and the rest of the hedge trimmed!

Not life altering, I know, but with only me to get the work done, it will take longer, and today is the only day I have "free" - no appointments, no meetings, etc. Just a pain - from the sting and the extra work.I'll have to mow on Thursday. This just pushes each schedulded task farther back, and that annoys me.

Oh well, time to go take some Tylenol and rewrap the sting with ice. Hope my readers don't have to deal with the little, viscious pests any time soon.


Oh yeah, anybody want some grape vine? I've trimmed a crapload off my hedge. Some with grapes attached. ;)

Italia! Italia! Italia! :)

Photo courtesy of Freephoto. Copyrighted by Freephoto.

Blogathon is GO!

Okay, GO over to Rose's and read up on her team supporting http://fallenheroesfund.org/.

Then, click through and SPONSOR them! Put your money where your "I support the troops" magnet and bumper stickers are.

Oooh, and these are some of the niffty buttons Rose has up, make sure to steal some and LINK to them. :)

Some Random Thoughts

A young man learns what's most important in life from the guy next door.





It had been some time since Jack had seen the old man. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way. In fact, Jack moved clear across the country in pursuit of his dreams. There, in the rush of his busy life, Jack had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with his wife and son. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.





Over the phone, his mother told him, "Mr. Belser died last night. The funeral is Wednesday." Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days.





"Jack, did you hear me?"





"Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him. I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.





"Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over 'his side of the fence' as he put it," Mom told him.





"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.







"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr. Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said





"He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important...Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.





As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Belser's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.





The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time.



Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture....Jack stopped suddenly.





"What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked.





"The box is gone," he said





"What box?" Mom asked.





"There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.





It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it.



"Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."



It had been about two weeks since Mr. Belser died Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.



Early the next day Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. Harold Belser" it read. Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.





"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch.





Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved:





"Jack, Thanks for your time! -Harold Belser."







"The thing he valued most was...my time"





Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant asked.





"I need some time to spend with my son," he said.





"Oh, by the way, Janet, thanks for your time!"





"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away,"



Think about this. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.



1. At least 2 people in this world love you so much they would die for you.





2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.



3. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.





4. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.





5. You mean the world to someone.





6. If not for you, someone may not be living.





7. You are special and unique.





8. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you trust God to do what's best, and wait on His time, sooner or later, you will get it or something better.



9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.



10. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.



11. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.



12. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.



13. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know and you'll both be happy.



14. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.












Count Your Blessings

If you woke up this morning
with more health than illness,
you are more blessed than the
million who won't survive the week.

If you have never experienced
the danger of battle,
the loneliness of imprisonment,
the agony of torture or
the pangs of starvation,
you are ahead of 20 million people
around the world.

If you attend a church meeting
without fear of harassment,
arrest, torture, or death,
you are more blessed than almost
three billion people in the world.


If you have food in your refrigerator,
clothes on your back, a roof over
your head and a place to sleep,
you are richer than 75% of this world.

If you have money in the bank,
in your wallet, and spare change
in a dish someplace, you are among
the top 8% of the world's wealthy.

If your parents are still married and alive,
you are very rare,
especially in the United States.

If you hold up your head with a smile
on your face and are truly thankful,
you are blessed because the majority can,
but most do not.


If you can hold someone's hand, hug them
or even touch them on the shoulder,
you are blessed because you can
offer God's healing touch.

If you can read this message,
you are more blessed than over
two billion people in the world
that cannot read anything at all.

You are so blessed in ways
you may never even know.







For my own amusement mostly:

AMAZINGLY ACCURATE
Whatever you do, don't cheat!




CHINESE HOROSCOPE :
THE YEAR OF THE IRON DRAGON,
WISHING YOU PROSPERITY AND GOOD FORTUNE IN THE
CHINESE NEW YEAR


FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS -
DO NOT CHEAT
OR IT WON'T WORK AND
YOU WILL WISH YOU HADN`T.



TAKE 3 MINUTES
TRY THIS - IT WILL FREAK YOU OUT.








NO CHEATING !!!!











THIS GAME HAS A FUNNY / CREEPY OUTCOME.








DO NOT READ AHEAD, JUST DO IT.





IT TAKES ABOUT 3 MINUTES - WORTH A TRY





1st. Get PEN and PAPER

2nd. WHEN CHOOSING NAMES, MAKE SURE THEY ARE REAL PEOPLE THAT YOU ACTUALLY KNOW

3rd. GO WITH YOUR FIRST INSTINCTS !!!!! Very important for good results.

4th. SCROLL DOWN

ONE LINE AT THE TIME
DON`T READ AHEAD
otherwise
YOU WILL RUIN THE FUN.









1. On a blank sheet of paper, WRITE NUMBERS 1 through 11 in a COLUMN on the LEFT.












2. BESIDE the NUMBERS 1 & 2,

WRITE DOWN ANY
2 NUMBERS YOU WANT.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE NUMBER?














3. BESIDE the NUMBERS 3 & 7,

WRITE DOWN THE NAMES OF TWO MEMBERS
OF THE OPPOSITE SEX.











CAUTION: DO NOT LOOK AHEAD or IT WILL NOT TURN OUT RIGHT














4. WRITE ANYONES NAME

(like FRIENDS or FAMILY...)
next to 4, 5, & 6.













DON`T CHEAT OR YOU`LL BE UPSET THAT YOU DID













5. WRITE down FOUR SONG TITLES in 8, 9, 10, & 11
















6. Finally,

MAKE A WISH

















ARE YOU READY?
HERE IS THE

KEY TO THE GAME















1. THE NUMBER of PEOPLE YOU MUST TELL ABOUT THIS GAME is found in SPACE 2







2. THE PERSON IN SPACE 3 IS THE ONE YOU LOVE










3. THE PERSON YOU LIKE but your relationship CANNOT WORK is in SPACE 7








4. YOU CARE MOST about the PERSON you put in SPACE 4









5. THE PERSON YOU NAME IN NUMBER 5 IS THE ONE WHO KNOWS YOU VERY WELL.









6. THE PERSON YOU NAMED IN 6 IS THE YOUR LUCKY STAR









7. THE SONG IN 8 IS THE SONG THAT MATCHES WITH THE PERSON IN NUMBER 3








8. THE TITLE IN 9 IS THE SONG FOR THE PERSON IN 7