Give War a Chance, by Major Paine

I was reading my other favorite blog - One Marine's View (found to the right) this morning and here's his lates post. Not only is it powerful, he's RIGHT!

June 04, 2007
Give War a Chance
American Forces Press Service May 22, 2007 WASHINGTON - Many Marines areconcerned that Americans aren't willing to invest enough time for success inIraq, the Corps' top officer said here yesterday.Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway told Pentagon reporters thatdefense officials must do a better job of communicating to the Americanpeople the cost of leaving Iraq too soon.
While Americans disagree on the reasons for going into Iraq, there is muchmore agreement on what would happen if coalition forces left beforeachieving success, Conway said.Americans have to understand that defeating an insurgency is a long-termproposition, he said."Historically, (defeating insurgents) has (taken) somewhere between nine and10 years, with various levels of effort," he said. "I think that there isless of an appetite in our country than we the military might think we needto sustain that kind of effort over that period of time."The general said coalition forces in Iraq see incremental daily progress."They want to be able to sustain that progress, because they want to be ableto succeed and come out with our credibility high and the credibility of theUnited States ... where it was when we went in," he said. "So in thatcontext, I think that our servicemen and women would wish for as much timeas it takes to do the job, realizing that incremental progress will one daytake us over the top."Conway, who has been commandant for about six months, said he is encouragedby coalition progress in Iraq's Anbar province."What we are seeing transpire in the al Anbar province today is a clear,discernible wedge between the Sunni tribes and the al Qaeda in Iraq," hesaid. "It has taken four years for these folks to realize that the al Qaedain Iraq could offer no more than a future filled with fear and instability."Tribal leaders and sheikhs in the Sunni province have thrown their lots inwith the Iraqi government. "Some very brave people have stepped up to speakout against al Qaeda and encourage their fellow tribesmen to work togethertoward an Iraq that is stable and at peace with its neighbors," Conway said."Now more than ever, it's imperative for the power of the (United States) tocontinue to support the people of Iraq economically, politically andmilitarily."Progress in Anbar province has been so great that it has changed strategy inthe region, Conway said. At one point, U.S. and Iraqi officials viewed thesituation in Anbar province as bleak and forecast that it would be the lastprovince to transition to Iraqi provincial control. "That has changed,"Conway said. "We now have Sunnis in large numbers joining the Iraqi army inthe al Anbar province. We have more Sunni tribesmen wanting to become policethan we have the opportunity to train on a monthly basis."As part of the military surge to quell violence, two battalions arescheduled to go to the province. "Any plus-up effort ... (is) in a very realsense reinforcing success," Conway said.The situation is so much better that the additional battalions may beshifted to other areas in the country, Conway said, adding that much of theprovince could fall under the control of the Iraqi police and army.Conway said he is pleased with moves to rush procurement of Mine ResistantAmbush Protected Vehicles, which are more effective than up-armored Humveesat withstanding the deadly effects of roadside bombs. "These vehicles willtruly have a positive impact on our ability to better protect our Marinesand sailors operating at the tip of the spear," the commandant said.Conway also reported on efforts to increase the size of the Marine Corps to202,000 personnel through 2011. Recruiters are doing a superb job in aconstrained environment, Conway said. He noted that growing casualty listshave made it tougher for recruiters to convince "influencers" -- parents,coaches, teachers etc. -- to encourage qualified young Americans to considerthe military.Surveys show that the propensity for all major ethnic groups in the UnitedStates to join the all-volunteer military is down. Still, Conway has taskedrecruiters with ensuring that the Marine Corps reflect the ethnic diversityof America, he said.

Imagine that!

Those Born 1930-1979
READ TO THE BOTTOM FOR QUOTE OF THE MONTH BY JAY LENO. IF YOU DON'T READ ANYTHING ELSE---VERY WELL STATED
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!!
First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.
They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we t ook hitchhiking.
As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.
We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.
We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because,
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!
We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.
No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms.......
WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!
We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!
Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unh eard of. They actually sided with the law!
These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If YOU are one of themâ?¦CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.
While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.
The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:
"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"
For those that prefer to think that God is not watching over us...go ahead and delete this.
For the rest of us...pass this on.

New baby Foal

Chris's friend has a horse farm up in Port Colburn and this weekend they welcomed a new foal to the fold. Isn't he soooo cute?!?!?! I wish I could go see him but this makes me want to pick up a favorite hobby... horseback riding. Only done it a few times so I'm not sure if it counts really as a hobby but this little guy's just so cute!

An English Treat

My friend Chris always has great and sometimes random things on her blog. This happens to be one of them. Our co-worker Sean is known for being off the wall and then some. He found a can of Microwaveable Spotted Dick in his pantry. Ok, here's my questions..... does Pfizer make an ointment for that???? LOL

Mickey Ashmore

I was browsing through some random blogs and came across this one. It's really interesting as he's traveling through India right now... a place I'd really love to see one day. Check it out if you get the chance!


http://mickeyashmore.blogspot.com/

Prayer for our troops

I got this in an email and thought it was really great. Hope you can all join us:


Subject: Power of Prayer
Any day above ground is a good one. It should work...
Someone has said if Christians really understood the full extent of the
power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless.


Did you know that during W.W.II there was an advisor to Churchill who
organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every day at a
prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of
England, its people and peace.
There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America.
If you would like to participate: Every evening at 9:00 PM Eastern
Time(8:00 PM Central) (6:00 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and
spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops,
our citizens, and for a return to a Godly nation.
If you know anyone else who would like to participate, please pass this
along.
Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have.
PLEASE FORWARD TO YOUR BELIEVING FRIENDS!

For our Prez..

I was looking for a quote to add to a specific email and I came across this one. Maybe President Bush should use it when talking about the war in Iraq:

"You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it."
Thatcher, Margaret British political leader (1925- )

Running Report

So Wednesday I started running and felt great after my first "class" if you will. Yesterday I was in training from 9-2 with little movement but at the end of the day I still felt great. I'd have gone for a walk last night but the humidity for me is dangerously close to unbearable. This morning I wake up and could have cut my legs off above the knee. A friend at work told me I'd feel it today and stupidly I didn't believe her. Oh how sorry I am! LOL We're supposed to get rain today and with any luck it'll come through and bring down the humidity. If it does, I'm so going for that walk. Yikes!

Running and Running

Ok, I've promised my cousin Nikki that if she comes up from Austin for next year's Corporate Challenge, I'd run it with her. That gives me a year to train for this 3.5 mile adventure around Delaware Park. As a fat lady who doesn't run, I was a bit nervous. Yates put together this really easy to follow 7 week plan with 3 program options that looked great. So yesterday I tripped on down to BAC (to which I haven't crossed the threshold of in months!) with my best friend Chris and for 30 minutes we ran. Well, I sorta ran. It was a 5 minute walk, then walk briskly for 90 seconds followed by 20 seconds of jogging. You do that for 20 minutes then 5 minutes of a brisk walk to cool down. You know what? I felt great afterwards, didn't pass out like I was afraid I was and feel pretty good today. We're planning another trip next week so until then I think I'll just walk with dad on his evening walks around the block or 2. Pretty humid here right now so I'm sure we won't be going far but heck, it's a start!! More to come!!! :)

Pirates 3

This past Monday, my brother & I took my sister to see Pirates of the Carribean 3. It was a good movie and I enjoyed it but there was one problem. Holy Crap it was LOOOONNNGGG!!! 2hrs and 40 minutes was a bit long for a 3rd installment. I recommend it to anyone who's seen 1 & 2 but wait until it comes out on DVD.

Gassed out

I don't drive (be thankful) and until recently, I haven't needed to (now your fear should kick in. lol) But in my daily search for articles on CNN.com about any of our accounts, I came across the following articles and can only say "Kudos!" to this man. He alone may not make a difference but if he gets others to join him, even for 24hrs, look out!

MEQUON, Wisconsin (AP) -- Motorists pulled in to Harvey Pollack's gas station, honked and gave him a thumbs-up -- because he wasn't selling any fuel.
The owner of Towne Market Mobil in this suburb north of Milwaukee shut down his pumps for 24 hours, hoping to start a movement aimed at convincing oil companies to lower their prices.
"Somebody out there is making money at these prices, but not me," said Pollack, 57. "So I just thought: What can I do to help the consumer?" (Watch the finger pointing over soaring gas prices )
Yellow caution tape surrounded Pollack's six idle pumps for his protest, which drew dozens of drivers. One in a green minivan rolled down her window and shouted "Thank you!"
Maria McClory, 38, drove 10 miles out of her way to buy a diet soda from Pollack's station after seeing local television coverage of the protest.
"I just wanted to support them and thank them for making a statement," said McClory, who drives about 100 miles a day for work in her sport utility vehicle.
Other drivers were more skeptical.
Jeff Bensman, 52, pulled in expecting to gas up his Honda sedan. He said he appreciated the protest but did not think it would make much difference.
"Most other places are going to be open in the area," he said.
Jack Sobczak, general sales manager for Lakeside Oil Co., a contracted Mobil distributor that supplies Pollack's station, said Bensman was probably right: "The demand will just move down the street to the next Mobil station."
Pollack and station general manager John Schwartz agreed to experiment with a pump shutdown after an Internet-based push for a one-day gas boycott went largely unheeded last week.
"Somebody's got to be the first to try this," Schwartz said.
The Mequon station sells about 3,500 gallons of gas a day, Pollack said. He estimated the station would lose only $1,500 on the protest because some losses in gas would be made up by people buying convenience store items or more gas on Friday.
Pollack, who also owns a Milwaukee title insurance agency, said he bought the gas station in 2003 as an investment but he has not turned a profit in 30 months because gas margins are razor thin and he cannot sell enough volume to compensate.
Pollack said he has virtually no control over the price he charges for gas. The company usually makes 8 to 12 cents per gallon after suppliers' prices and credit card fees. On Wednesday -- the day before the protest -- that added up to $3.49 for a gallon of unleaded gas. (Watch what you can do to save at the pump)
Schwartz called that "outrageous" and said even he can't fill up his SUV at that price.
"If it keeps going like this, my kids will never be able to afford to drive," said Schwartz, who has an 18-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter.
The protest came as several Wisconsin service stations announced they would no longer sell gas because they make little or no profit on it after they pay wholesalers, credit card fees and taxes. They said they would focus on auto repairs instead.

Skinny Dad

So, dad had his gastric bypass, it was 3 weeks ago this past Thursday and here's the new & skinnier dad!

Memorial Day 2007

It's Memorial Day weekend. When most of us are going camping, heading up to Towpath for white pizza & endless games of I Got It!, here's a few other images you might want to keep in mind. These are just a few of my eMOM guys. Guys who are currently serving our country. Hug a Vet, say thank you to a soldier / sailor / Marine and remember, always remember.

"Amen Sister!"

Last Friday 18 of us trekked down to the African American Cultural Center on Masten Avenue to see our friend Renita in her latest production, Amen Sister! Sweet little Renita (anyone who knows her is now laughing) plays Sister Ester, the eldest member of the Shiloh Baptist Church Women's Board. The whole play is based around her and 3 other members who need to vote on accepting a new member to replace one that has passed. Renita steps way out of character and plays an evil woman who doesn't want change and seems to have a large crush on the unseen Rev. Parker. Played perfectly, Amen Sister! offers tears, laughter, a good tug on the heart-strings and a feeling of contentment all in 2hrs. This is the last weekend that it's playing so if you get the chance, run down and see it before it's gone. Great Job 'Nita!!!

We took pictures with her and the cast and as soon as she gets them emailed from the center, I'll be sure to post one.

After the play we drove down to Chippewa with the dream of a Chocolatini at the Chocolate Bar which we found crowded.... no shock for a Friday night. We strolled up & down for a few minutes (no one wanted to pay $15 cover charge) and ended up at Baccus for a glass of wine. The laughter flowed faster than the wine and a great time was had by all. Yates & I rode with April and at 1:00 a.m. the "hungries" hit so we all went our separate ways and the 3 of us headed to Jim's Steak Out. Yummmmm. Not an everyday experience but for once in a while it was the treat you need to unwind from a long week. Give it a try!

Sabres

I know I'm a bit late on my blog but I wanted to say a great big THANKS to the Sabres for their great season. It was thrilling, chilling, uplifting & crushing all at the same time. See you next season guys!!!

Mr. Lyle or Mrs Lyle???

Ok, so a big push at Kari's school is reading. The new principal (Andy who lives in Rochester & commutes daily) has set up a baseball diamond in the foyer. Once they got to first base (x number of pages read) they got to pie him in the face. At 2nd base they got to do something else (I believe they pied the board of directors). For 3rd base he agreed to wear a dress. A man of his word.... the evidence is below. I'm hoping he's my ECC next year. What fun!!!! Oh, and if they get to their goal (home plate) of some 30,000 books / pages read, he's taking the whole elementary school of K-6 to a Bison's game. Way to go Andy!!

New Sabres Logo

In light of how we've pretty much sucked the last 3 games. I feel this may be an appropriate new logo.

UW Hipsters!!

Got this link from my friend Smithy. Check 'em out!


http://www.allthingsjennifer.wnymedia.net/2007/05/14/hipster/

I may work there, but not sure I'd put it across these bossom babies! LOL

Military Bans MySpace & Other Sites

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Lt. Daniel Zimmerman, an infantry platoon leader
in Iraq, puts a blog on the Internet every now and then "to basically
keep my friends and family up to date" back home.
It just got tougher to do that for Zimmerman and a lot of other U.S.
soldiers.
No more using the military's computer system to socialize and trade
videos on MySpace, YouTube and nine other Web sites, the Pentagon
says.
Citing security concerns and technological limits, the Pentagon has
cut off access to those sites for personnel using the Defense
Department's computer network.
The change limits use of the popular outlets for service members on
the front lines, who regularly post videos and journals.
"I put my blog on there and my family reads it," said Zimmerman, 29,
a platoon leader with B Company, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry
Regiment.
"It scares the crap out of them sometimes," he said.
"I keep it as vague as possible," he said. "I'm pretty responsible
about it. It's just basically to tell a little bit about my life over
here" he said.
He's regularly at a base where he doesn't have Defense Department
access to the Internet, but he has used it when he goes to bigger
bases. He'll have to rely on a private account all the time now.
Memos about the change went out in February, and it took effect last
week. It does not affect the Internet cafes that soldiers in Iraq use
that are not connected to the Defense Department's network.
The cafe sites are run by a private vendor, FUBI (For US By Iraqis).
Also, the ban also does not affect other sites, such as Yahoo, and
does not prevent soldiers from sending messages and photos to their
families by e-mail.
Internet use has become a troublesome issue for the military as it
struggles to balance security concerns with privacy rights. As blogs
and video-sharing become more common, the military has voiced
increasing concern about service members revealing details about
military operations or other information about equipment or
procedures that will aid the enemy.
At the same time, service members have used the Web sites to
chronicle their time in battle, posting videos and writing journals
that provide a powerful, personal glimpse into their days at war.
"These actions were taken to enhance and increase network security
and protect the use of the bandwidth," said Col. Gary Keck, a
Pentagon spokesman.
The Pentagon said that use of the video sites in particular was
putting a strain on the network, and also opening it to potential
viruses or penetration by so-called "phishing" attacks in which scam
artists try to steal sensitive data by mimicking legitimate Web sites.
"The U.S. Army's not going to pay the bill for you to get on MySpace
and YouTube," said Maj. Bruce Mumford, of Chester, Nebraska, who is
serving as the brigade communications officer for the 4th Brigade,
1st Infantry Division, in Iraq.
"Soldiers need to know what they can and cannot do, but we shouldn't
be facilitating it."
Warnings of the shutdown went out in February, and allowed troops to
seek waivers if the sites were necessary for their jobs. Often
insurgent groups post videos, including ones of attacks or -- in some
high profile cases -- of U.S. or coalition soldiers who have been
captured or killed.
"I guess it's a good general policy," Zimmerman said about the ban on
MySpace and YouTube. "If people could be trusted not to break
operational security, then they wouldn't need to have the policy."
If the restrictions are intended to prevent soldiers from giving or
receiving bad news, they could also prevent them from providing
positive reports from the field, said Noah Shachtman, who runs a
national security blog for Wired Magazine.
"This is as much an information war as it is bombs and bullets," he
said. "And they are muzzling their best voices."
The sites covered by the ban are the video-sharing sites YouTube,
Metacafe, IFilm, StupidVideos and FileCabi; social networking sites
MySpace, BlackPlanet and Hi5; music sites Pandora, MTV, 1.fm and
live365, and the photo-sharing site Photobucket.

Mother's Day 2007

Happy Mother's Day to all the mom's out there. This year we kept it close to home. Starting out with church to which we all went... yup, even me. Then we came home & kept it low key. I got mom a vintage Sabres jersey and Donald & Kari gave her hanging strawberry baskets for the front porch. They're supposed to give actual strawberries!! Then they went off to the cemetary while Donald & I made dinner. Truth me told, I just helped put the kabob's together. Donald cut up fresh fruit, made a yummy tuna noodle salad and mixed his own blend of spices for the chicken & steak. It was all so yummy we had extra helpings. We even took fruit and pureed it so dad could join us. Swapping out the winter shoes for our more fun summer shoes then some cake rounded out the day. Ahhh......

The Sabres are truly a religion...

Lord Stanley, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy playoffs come, thy games be won, on the road as it is in Buffalo. Forgive us our many goals, as we forgive those few who score against us. And lead us not into overtime, but deliver us victory in regulation. For your cup, your power and glory will be ours, Forever and ever. In the name of Ryan Miller, Mad Max, and the holy Ruff. Amen

The Sabres Commandments:
10 Thou Shall Not covet thy neighbors Labatt’s. Thou shall not be envious of his autographed Ryan Miller jersey nor his hot girlfriend in the pink Sabres hat.
9 Thou Shall NOT bear false witness, like saying you were at the game when Dave Hannan scored in quadruple overtime against New Jersey in 1994. The Aud held 16,500 people, yet everyone in Buffalo "was there."
8 Thou shall NOT steal Rick Jeanarette sayings and pass them off as your own. Really, Top shelf where momma hides the cookies was your idea? Ya, don’t say?
7 Thou Shall NOT allow Brian Campbell to commit adultery. Whatever, Brian Campbell.
6 Thou Shall NOT kill. ("Not applicable to Leafs fans, go ahead and mow as many of them down as possible" – God)
5 Honor Lindy Ruff. If he says eat your peas, then eat your peas. I’m talking to you Derek Roy!
4 Keep holy the Sabbath, which is any day the Sabres are playing. Your boss will understand why you need 16-28 days off over the next 3 months…if not, Commandment 6 may be waived. I have no patience of religious intolerance.
3 Thou shall not take Jochen Hecht’s name in vain, even though it may be fun to say things like, "You must be Jochen" or "Jochen do it."
2 Thou shall not worship false idols. Careful Sabretooth. Careful.
1 There is only One Team, One Goal!

Haily Lindy
(To be said upon breaking any one of above Commandments)
Hail Lindy full of grace, the Lord Stanley be with you, blessed are you among defensemen and blessed is the strategy of thy coaching genius. Holy Lindy, father of the Sabres, pray for us sinners now in regulation and in sudden death.
Amen

Sabres Smackdown!!!

Ok, yet another post today about the Sabres. Actually this is about that jackazz Emery from Ottawa.

Good news, Buffalo sports fans. Just in time for the next big series, there’s a fresh target for your collective loathing. So long, Sean Avery. Nice job not scoring a point. Hello, Ray Emery.
“I’m not a big fan of Buffalo,” Emery said early this week. “There’s not a lot to do on days off.”
Ottawa’s goalie couldn’t have done a better job of firing up the locals if he’d called a press conference and brought along our old pal, Willis McGahee, for moral support.
Why stop there, Ray? Why not insult our women while you’re at it? Or suggest they move the franchise to Toronto?
Emery said he was rooting for the Rangers to beat the Sabres, presumably because the night life is so shabby in our cultural backwater. OK, so Emery is out of luck if he’s looking to see Les Miserables or take in the Metropolitan Opera. Maybe Lindy Ruff, who has been almost eloquent in his affection for Buffalo this time of year, could offer him some suggestions.
“He’ll find things to do,” Ruff said with a laugh. “Rent a Hummer truck, go for a ride. Drive around a little bit.”
Good one, Lindy. Emery was involved in a three-car accident in his Hummer on the way to the airport last Friday for Game Five of the New Jersey series (no one was injured). It seems he was rushing to the airport after oversleeping. Emery missed the team flight. Maybe he was exhausted from a big night in that simmering cultural hotbed, Ottawa.
Actually, I suspect Emery wanted to avoid the Sabres for more fundamental reasons. He would rather have taken his chances against the mediocre Rangers’ offense than a Sabres team that lit him up like Times Square on New Year’s Eve in last year’s playoffs.
While he’s groping for things to do on the off days here, Emery ought to watch some tape of last year’s series against the Sabres, when he was about as comfortable as Alberto Gonzales testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Emery might not care to recollect, but in five games against Buffalo, he had a save percentage of .864. The Sabres upset the Senators for one reason: Because Ryan Miller soundly outplayed Emery in a series where the underdog Sabres were outshot by 10 shots a game.
Granted, Emery has been a different goalie this season. He has been less skittish in his net, less likely to get caught out of position. But he is still an average goalie. He is no Henrik Lundqvist. Believe me, after struggling to solve Lundqvist for half a series, the Sabres will be happy to take their chances with Emery.
“I think we can take advantage of him,” said Ales Kotalik. “I think Ryan is a better goalie than him. We’ve been facing better goalies than he is. We will see. He’s got a big, big body. But we know he can give up some pretty easy goals. So hopefully, he didn’t forget last year’s playoffs and he’s going to give up some this year, too.”
You have to think the memory of last year’s playoff meltdown is still up there in Emery’s head. He has been solid in this year’s playoffs. But all the Senators have really done is beat a bunch of talented but raw teen-agers (Pittsburgh) and a team that had to fire its coach with a week left in the season, then had its own goalie, Martin Brodeur, fall apart in the second round (New Jersey).
Emery is up against it now. The only thing he’s proved to Buffalo fans is that he can beat up Martin Biron. So if you need someone to rush onto Chippewa Street at 4 a.m. and punch out a bunch of drunken thugs, Emery is your man. Knocking this Sabres team out of the playoffs, well, that’s a different matter.
You don’t like our clubs, Ray? Two weeks from now, you might have some other clubs on your mind. Golf clubs.

Sabres at the Last Supper

All things good & holy are related in some way. Here's proof!

A new Sabres poem

Here's a poem written by my brother's friend Steve:

Bring on the Senators
Let the Senators come,
And bring their "A" game.
Because their efforts won't matter,
Once the Sabres take aim.
The Blue and Gold are ready to fight,
The Sens are going down, every game night.
The Sabres are looking for the ultimate prize,
Which will lead to everyone else's demise.
Go ahead and try to get in the way,
But Lord Stanley's heading to Buffalo and he's coming to stay!!!
-Written by me, Steve Bermel.

All New Ottawa Song

Check this out. My friend Steve found it. Song is on the left hand side of the page: All New Ottawa Song

http://wgr550.com/

Stamp Out Hunger

Mail carriers to bear extra load for charity
By Dan Herbeck NEWS STAFF REPORTER
Updated: 05/06/07 6:44 AM
It sure isn’t easy, but it’s worth every little ache and pain.
That pretty much sums up the attitude of local postal carriers toward their annual food drive, scheduled for Saturday.
In addition to normal mail deliveries, carriers in Western New York hope to pick up at least 2 million pounds of nonperishable food, which will be donated to the Food Bank of Western New York and food pantries throughout the region.
Postal customers are asked to leave donations out by their mailboxes that morning.
"It definitely makes for a long, hard day, but these are our neighborhoods," said Nicole Novosat, a Williamsville postal carrier who coordinates the drive in Western New York. "It sure feels good when you see the big tractor-trailers that we load up with food for the food bank every year. It’s a unique way for us to give something back to their community."
The National Association of Letter Carriers sponsors the annual nationwide drive, now in its 15th year. More than 70 million pounds of food was collected last year.
According to Novosat, carriers from Western New York have picked up more food than participants from any other region of the country over the past four years.
"We set a local record with 1.9 million pounds last year, and we’d love to go over 2 million this year," Novosat said. "People ask me all the time why our region gets so much food. I can only tell them people in this area have a tradition of helping others."
In addition to the Food Bank, 86 area food pantries receive donations from the carriers’ drive. Officials said macaroni- and-cheese, peanut butter and canned soup are among the most popular and needed items. Officials ask donors to steer away from items in glass containers, if possible.
Several individuals and organizations have volunteered to help postal carriers with food pickups and loading trucks. Novosat said anyone else interested in volunteering can call her at 913-4230.
email: dherbeck@buffnews.com

Sabres vs Ottawa Sens

Ok everyone, I did my part during game #6 of the last round and stayed away from the hockey game. For the Ottawa Sens I plan to do the same. Here's hoping we take it in 5 - gotta keep it interesting. Ya know, throw them a bone of 1 game! LOL

GOOOOOOO SABRES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

14th Annual Decorators Showhouse

Yesterday I had the great pleasure of helping my friend Chris out. She's a member of the Junior League of Buffalo and this month they're having their 14th Annual Decorators Showhouse. This year's lucky winner was the Silverthorn Mansion right here on Delaware Ave - formerly known as Millionaire's Row. Each year, local decorators compete to be able to decorate one room in the house of choice. Once those decorators are chosen, they are assigned a room and it's off to the races. Chris & I had the pleasure of touring the house before it opened for last night's viewing and we both agreed that we got some really great ideas. A lot of the deocrators went with a 1920's theme and had mirrored nightstands / dressing tables. One room became my favorite, among others, as it was all pink and the closet had been turned into a craft room! It had wooden dowel from which wrapping paper and ribbons hung. Drawers held crafting supplies from scissors to scrapbook paper to glue and markers. Another room Chris & I really enjoyed was the artist retreat. That closet had been turned into a Moroccan themed meditation room. Alas we weren't assigned to either one. We were assiged to the Master Suite which was the bedroom, master bath and Lady's retreat. We were joined by another volunteer and happily split into the three rooms. The bedroom's biggest "item" was the wallpaper which was black with large pineapples on it. A very love it or hate it situation there. The bathroom was beautiful in warm beige tile imported from Turkey. I was in the Lady's Retreat (former closet / former kitchen) who's walls were padded........ a sign they knew I was coming? LOL All in all it was a great time. By the end of the night my feet were rebeling but I'd do it again just for the chance. If you've got time, I highly suggest this little jaunt or if you don't, make some. Tickets are only $15 and a guided tour included a docent to take you through all 3 fabulous floors. Be aware though that there are no elevators and a lot of stairs. Details can be found on the Junior League website www.jlbuffalo.org .

Where do you fit in?

I just got out of my first interview for my replacement now that I've gotten a promotion. It started me thinking of something from early this morning. I've gotten a promotion so am no longer in the union. Don't fit in there anymore. I'm part of management but I'm still a support staff employee. I don't fit into either of those categories too well because only 1 other person in my position is management. Hmm..... wonder how this'll play out.

Gastric Bypass

It's been a rough few weeks. I crashed out at 5:30 yesterday and woke up again at 1:39 this morning. At least I knew the Sabres won over the Rangers beforehand! LOL So I'm drinking Gatorade to keep awake and I ran to the vending machine for some SoyCrisps. Since our vending guy hates the idea of healthy food that button naturally doesn't work.

But I'm getting off track. For those of you who don't know, dad had gastric bypass surgery this past Thursday, May 3rd. He had Dr. Caraouna (hope I spelled that right but probably not. lol) He had the full open surgery which required a 6" incesion and a drainage tube. He was pretty drugged up on Thursday but was in good spirits. Friday was the worst day because that's when everything was settling back into place and his pain level was high. He spiked a light fever but according to the nurse that was normal. She assured mom that things would be 100% different on Saturday.

Saturday morning mom was getting ready to throw on some old clothes and so stuff around the house when the phone rang. It was dad who sounded 100% better and was calling to let us know they were letting him go home. He was moving pretty slow and didn't stay awake much but all in all did really well.

Sunday was even better. He's pretty used to popsicles and flavored waters but he gets to start what we call "mush" tomorrow. The visiting nurse came and said that everything looks great and he doesn't need any extra visits. He took a shower, washed his hair, shaved and walked to the mailbox and back. With mom & I at work today only the Lord knows what he'll try. Knowing him, if he could make it to Tim Horton's he would. LOL He's got to take a heparin shot two times a day.

Everything went great and the Dr. is pretty picky about who he'll work on so there's really no fear there. There were tons of tests that dad had to go through even talking to a shrink. The only thing I would have done differently is that the family should sit in on one of the sessions with the shrink. (Sorry for those of you who cringe at that word.) This surgery is a huge thing for the patient and it is - without a doubt - a major life change. But what about the family? It affects them as well and they can't be forgotten. Everyone reacts differently and having someone objective to talk to can make things go smoothly.

All in all things are great to date. More to come!!!!

Jersey Alert

Ok, I've put on my new jersey....... like I could wait until I get home! LOL Just a fashion tip for ladies who love the vintage jersey. Compared to the new ones.....so not curve friendly. Not that I care. I'd wear a burlap sack with a Sabres logo, as long as it was NHL sanctioned of course! LOL If you're hip conscience, keep this in mind when making your choice.

GO SABRES!!!!!!!!!!!

Ruff Sighting!!!

Yup, I still don't like the new logo enough to put it on my blog and what the heck? I hear they're changing it again next year anyway.

Ok, on to the real reason for this post. With the Sabres you never really need a "reason" but today is special. My friend Chris & I made a trip to the Sabres store in HSBC arena for our "lunch." LOL A shopping lunch! Totally fat / calorie free! I picked up a vintage home jersey for myself because I don't have one and my brother & sister each have jersey's. They got the new ones though. While down there, I got a white vintage jersey for mom. Mother's Day is just corner folks. Chris needed to hit the ATM after we left so we walked to the other end of the lobby and mid-sentence Chris starts saying "Jenn, Jenn, look, Jenn!" I turn around and here he is! Coach of the Year! Coach of the President's Trophy winning team.... LINDY RUFF!!! AWWW!!!!! I almost shreiked. He was on his way back in from a run. Oh just being near him was amazing. And just think, my favorite players could have been in there to: Drury, Campbell, Connelly and that oh so hot VANEK!!!!!!!!!!!

GO SABRES!!!!!!!!

A delicious time

Today my staff took me to lunch to celebrate Secretary's Day. Ok, so we're a week late and I'm used the no long PC term but who cares. It was just fun to get out of the office for an hour.

We went down to a fairly new place called The Chocolate Bar. I've heard people rave about it for the last year that it's been open and I never turn down good chocolate - just look at my thighs for proof! LOL I had this really wonderful turkey club sandwich on panini and most everyone followed suit. Now here's the best part. The whole reason for going to this place is to have one of their famous drinks - Chocolate Martini here I come! - or one of the many fab desserts.... all chocolate of course! I ordered the Peanut Butter Comet with the intention of sharing. That so didn't happen!!! LOL It was beautifully presented with a red rose petal, a small teacup of peanut butter mousse and the comet itself was a chocolate cone with peanut butter mouse, crushed reese cups, a solid chocolate base and all drizzed in white chocolate. Oh lord the sugar rush!!! I only wish I had a camera to capture it all.

Thank you to my wonderful staff who makes me feel special all year long. I couldn't do it or be what I am without you.

The troops entertain us!

So, it's a pretty odd thing when a gun-carrying soldier breaks out into song.......... or is it?


http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1708922

I seriously laughed my ass off at this. Thanks guys! Stay safe, keep your spirits up and your butt down.

Proud eMOM Member for 2yrs
www.emailourmilitary.com

Jersey Swap

The other day we had a Jersey Swap in the office. Here, Shawn from our I.T. Department (soon to be moving on to bigger & better things.... well, a bigger paycheck anyway) swapped jersey's with Nicole. Shawn honey - Pink is soooooo your color! LOL

CC's Christening

Here's a quick picture of CC the day of her Christening. Hope you can see her!!!

CC enjoys spring

Just a quick shot of my "neice" CC. Here's a picture of her on Aunt Robin's couch styling in her khaki's and pink sweater. So freakin' cute!!!

Yet Another Staff Meeting

Yet another month has passed and it's time for the staff meeting once again. It was my turn to give the teamwork award and until I stood up in front of everyone I really wasn't sure who I'd give it to. Everyone deserves it so I thought of who doesn't hear Thank You enough. Well, the person I can't think of as getting the award in the last 4 yrs at least, and really took a beating this year - so far - is our HR director Kirsti. Let's face it, when the insurance rate increase came out, she was on the front line hearing all of it.

And, as we did last month, Change Team led us on another fun filled journey. This month we were told that a bunch of meteors were hitting earth, 11 of us could survive in a bunker but with the resources only 5 would be allowed to keep enough supplies and keep us alive until help came. My group came to the decision we'd use the expertise of the scientist to expand the supplies we had, the welder to build a green house & make repairs, the lawyer & politican would be used to make trades & agreements with other bunkers, the 12 yr old was for labor we basically didn't want to do! LOL Old lady was for wisdom, handicapped man - according to the "actor" just had dyslexia so was healthy enough to work, and the pregnant woman brough hope. OH, and the Army general brought order / discipline while the Doc brough needed medical care. All in all it was fun. The funniest part was seeing the responses of other groups. Reggie was in a group of women & played the welder. He basically said he was "The Man" and would be used to help... further increase the population. LOL Not bad for a staff meeting. :)

Old fashioned journals

I was watching what is rapidly becoming one of my favorite movies the other day... Kiera Knightly in Pride & Prejudice. Equally tied is the Bali-wood version Bride & Prejudice. Anyway, in just about every room there were shelves and shelves of books. Anyone who likes to read like I do can appreciate the beauty in a personal library of that scale. It got me thinking though. In this paperless-technology rules - who needs actual handwriting age, are blogs the best? Now, that doesn't mean I'm going to give up my blog by any means. Far from it in fact. But blogs only last so long. After we pass on to the great shoe store in the sky, our blogs will be shut down and it's almost as if we never existed. Journals on the other hand are hard proof that we were here. That we breathed, used resources, did good / bad and loved. Sometimes the biggest impact we make in this world has nothing to do with press. Something as small as a journal read by an ancestor years later can shape the future. I'm now on the hunt for that perfect, leather bound journal. Maybe I'll get lucky and can find a place where my initials can be embossed in gold on them. Hmmmm......

Playoff Prayer

" Our God, who art in HSBC, Miller be thy name. Thy puck come. Thy save be done, in the air as it is on ice. Give us this day our stanley cup, and forgive us our slashing, as we send out Peters for those that slash against us, and lead us not into golfing, but deliver us from injury. For Miller is teh Goalie, the power and the glory for ever and ever.. amen."

Girls Night 2007

Saturday night was the 3rd Annual Girls Night at my house. A tradition we've started one weekend in April to get together, drink more than we normally would, laugh, complain and just have an all around good time. This year it was my turn to be celebrated as we toasted my promotion with pink champagne provided by the group's newest member, Yates - seen in yellow & black. There was, naturally, way too much food, plenty of drink and even more laughs. Unfortunately the Sabres loss to the Islanders in Game 2 of Round 1 but hey, we were having such a good time we hardly noticed! :) Thanks Girls for yet another great night!!!

Easter 2007 in Denver

Chris & Steve headed to Denver to spend easter 2007 with his family. Don't they look so cute here with his Grandma? Good to know we're not the only ones who had snow that weekend! :)

I GOT IT!!!

Hey everyone, thanks for the GREAT good wish emails I got prior to my interview. I went in at 9:00 and by 10:00 I had the job. Thank you all for your support as I make this big / little change in my life. It's a whole new set of parameters but they're not so different from the old ones. I'm now out of the union - officially on Monday at least - and I won't have the Campaign Help Desk. Yeah! I get my own voicemail again!!! :)

7th Heavan

Last night my brother & I watched a program called 7th Heavan. It's a show we used to watch all the time and has nothing to do with that closet game you played at your first boy / girl party. No, in fact this show follows a family where mom works from home, dad's a minister and there's 7 kids. Last night's episode (which I sure was a repeat) talked about the youngest girl Ruthie who's about 7 or 8 years old and is part of a penpal program at school where she writes to a Marine over in Afghanistan. The family all becomes overly curious as to what exactly she's writing about each of them so she lets them read her latest email. In this email she tells her Marine what each of her family members is greatful for living in the USA. Naturally you want to cry when you watch this because each person has something that we consider quite basic but through the eyes of this munchkin you see how important it is. Maybe I'm confusing you, let me break it down this way. Her eldest brother Matt is marrying the daughter of a Rabbi and both are going to school to be doctors. He's greatful for the chance to study medicine and help others. The eldest daughter - Mary - is going to school to be a flight attendant. She was greatful for the chance to travel freely around the country / world. The stories like this go on and on. Lucy was greatful to be able to follow in her father's religious footsteps and the ex-boyfriend they took in is greatful to be accepted as a member of the family, even without blood relations.

All this got me thinking and then my brother put it to words. "Why don't more schools have programs like this?" Good question. Answer: We've become so afraid to offend another person that we've PC'd ourselves right into a situation that a couple hundred years ago, our ancestors fought to get out of. Freedom of Religion for example. We escaped England so that we could practice what religion we wanted. Now we've got a ton of them.... A GREAT THING!! But no one's afraid to just practice and enjoy. You've got your fanatics who think only their religion should take precedent or we're afraid to stand behind it. Take religion out of the schools and out of our justice system. Funny, I know working at a non-profit means I don't make much money but last time I saw a dollar it had the words "In God We Trust" printed right on it.

You can take the Politically Correct movement in a million different directions and never come up with the same answer twice....... or can you? When does PC go too far? Is this a vicious cycle we're doomed to repeat?

It was when reading a magazine that I came across an article about www.emailourmilitary.com and it's been one of the greatest things I've done in my life. Somehow it's become un-PC to support your military yet here's an organization that does just that. Why don't we take this to our school children? I've got about 15 service men / women then I send cards / emails to. It costs practically nothing, you're brightening someone's day and if it's not Politically Correct in someones eyes my response is........... Look the Other Way. Or better yet, join and see what it's really about. Don't let Political Correctness limit your visions. Our country was founded & expanded on visions and dream and make them come to exist. Remember that the next time an email comes along you might not normally forward or you see a newscast you may not like. Look deeper and question everything. And when you find something new, remember to thank little Ruthie Camden.

Interview Scheduled

Just a quick note to let you all know my interview is scheduled for this Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. Ironically my union meeting starts at noon. I had a feeling they'd land on the same day. Let's not forget I've also got my Wellness Committee meeting that afternoon as well. I'm gonna be whipped by the end of Wednesday! LOL Wish me Luck!!

Free Chicken!!

I am pleased to report that the chicken broke loose from his captors and came flying over my cube wall. The captor has also been identified and as promised, I am keeping the identity a secret........ thanks to my friend who did the napping! You made my cruddy feeling day pass- well, at least the first half- in laughter.

Put out an APB!!!!

Today I arrived and nothing was amiss. Soon, my friend Bill calls me from the front desk saying that he got a call but nothing came up on the caller ID. Odd since this is a place of business but the caller said "Tell Jenn I have her chicken." As I was talking to him my other line rang and it was the myster caller "I have your chicken. Further instructions to follow." Well, shortly there after I get an email from our Major Gifts area scan / copier "2 boxes of pledge cards by noon or the chicken dies." Now, not feeling well things are a bit funnier than normal but it only gets better from here. About 20 minutes later I get another note on my chair "Noon or it's chicken for lunch." This just gets better & better!!! So, about 15 minutes ago I'm standing at a friend's desk when the VP of Investments comes over and says she has a message...."Don't forget noon." She then sends me a Happy Meal bag containing........ chicken nuggets!!! I sit down at my desk and had noticed my friend Jean down the row was on the phone. A few minutes later my phone rings and it's a male voice..."I know where the chicken is" and the AFLAC duck in the background. I know it's H's voice so this just makes it funnier!! Well, it's now 12:02 and I'm waiting on the captors to collect their ransom. More to follow.....

Teamwork Award

Ok, so I'm slacking when it comes to posting but here's a good one. I've been here for 4 yrs and each month we have a staff meeting. Well, after countless meetings watching everyone get the "coveted" Teamwork Award it was finally my turn. My friend Skip who's our Switchboard Operator / Receptionist gave it to me and I was truly honored. Funny how everyone's just a bit nicer once you've got the award and it's your turn to pick who it goes to next. LOL The little guys in the boat actually row!!! Thanks Skip!!!

Bed

I love all things antique looking and even those real ones! LOL Can I just tell you how much I love my new bed!!!!

Sabres Alum vs BPD Game

Last night we grabbed Donald's friend Mike and headed down to HSBC Arena to watch the Sabres Alumni Association take the on the Buffalo Police Department. I guess they used to do this kind of game all the time and haven't done it for a while. Last night's game was in honor of that Officer Patricia Parete who was shot in the line of duty. Ticket's were $10 and the whole amount went to her recovery fund. Gilbert Perreault played and Rick Martin & Larry Playfair were co-coaches. Even Lindy Ruff - who is really great - took the ice. The players were all surprisingly nice and some of them are still pretty hot! Darryl Shannon and James Patrick still have it. Whew!! We sat right next to the tunnel where the Sabres came out so it was a perfect spot for pictures and autographs. Gilbert played in his old gold helmet and Dionne played without his. Heck, James Patrick played in a baseball cap! Shows you how tough the players were back in the day. LOL Everyone had a great time, autographs abounded and hockey still rules as the ultimate sport............. with lacrosse a close second. ^_-

Poison Pucker?

Some interesting news folks:


Something to consider
next time you go shopping for
lipstick......
This comes from someone
who works in the breast cancer unit at
Mt. Sinai Hospital, in Toronto.

From: Dr. Nahid Neman
If there is a female you care anything about,
share this with her. I did!!!!!
I am also sharing this with the males on my email list,
because they need to tell the females
THEY care about as well!
 Recently a lipstick brand called "Red Earth"
decreased their prices from
$67 to $9.90.
 It contained lead.
Lead is a chemical which causes cancer.
The lipstick brands that contain lead are:
CHRISTIAN DIOR
LANCOME
CLINIQUE
Y.S.L
ESTEE LAUDER
SHISEIDO
RED EARTH (Lip Gloss)
CHANEL (Lip Conditioner)
MARKET AMERICA-MOTNES LIPSTICK.
The higher the lead content,
the greater the chance of causing cancer.
After doing a test on lipsticks,
it was found that the Y.S.L. lipstick
contained the most amount of lead.
Watch out for those lipsticks
which are supposed to stay longer.
If your lipstick stays longer, it is
because of the higher content of lead.
Here is the test you can do yourself:
1. Put some lipstick on your hand.
2. Use a Gold ring to scratch on the lipstick.
3. If the lipstick colour changes to black,
then you know the lipstick contains lead.
Please send this information to all your girlfriends,
wives and female family members.
This information is being circulated at
Walter Reed Army Medical Center
Dioxin Carcinogens cause cancer,
especially breast cancer.

Isabella has arrived!!

Right in line with the explosion of babies happening at my place, I'd like to introduce Isabella here with mommy AnnaLisa. It was a rough road to get here but we're all so happy she's finally arrived healthy and happy. Knowing AnnaLisa, this little girl will be spoiled and adorable!!! Congrats new little family!

Disney Cruise will never be the same

My cousin Nikki took her family on the Disney cruise for Easter this year. Here's a couple pictures to show you the great time they had. Of course, If I came back to my room and saw an "elephant" sitting on my bed, I might be a bit perplexed. LOL The sun, the water and the Disney characters everywhere made it look like a great time. I know my mother's dying to go on this trip herself. Glad you had a good time guys!!!! See you soon!!!

St. Patrick's Day

I dressed up of course for work on Friday. How could I not?!?!?!? Saturday I laid low and we went out to dinner. Same thing for Sunday. You know what? I heard about all the fights downtown and I don't miss it. I'm ok with a low-key St. Pat's day and ya know what? I'm actually Irish.

Do we say NO too often?

When I was a kid, if someone told me NO, I'd do it anyway and do it to succeed. Nothing bad like eating ice cream, I mean a project. Well, somewhere in my teen years, all the NO's piled up and I kinda lost my drive. My self esteem basically went down the toilet, I put on weight and was not myself. Well, now I'm 26 and ya know what? I'm sick & tired of NO!!! Now, don't take it wrong. I'm not going to start sleeping around and doing drugs. I want to build cabinets in my kitchen... Dan said "No, it's too much work." A great friend but IRK!!! I want to do hardwood in my bathroom... Dad says "No, if you get it wet it'll probably warp." Irk, but good point. Why not lay tile???? I've heard "No, it's gonna take you forever!" I want to bring this 'Lighten Up Iowa' program to work. My boss R? "We've got to see if we can invest time in this." That translates to a NO. Think out of the box, she says, I need new ideas, she says. I bring her ideas and ya know what I get "NO" ARGHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I feel like I'm Charlie Brown and I'm playing football with Lucy. Guess what folks, this Charlie Brown just bought a football tee. I'm gonna price out the materials for my cabinet, do my bathroom the way I want it and ya know what? I'm gonna do that health program and make it a success. Let's see who says NO then!

Remember folks, a "No" now isn't "never", just go out and kick some butt to make it a yes and make those nay-sayers eat their words.

CC's home!

I stopped over last weekend to see my new neice CC. Here she is with mommy enjoying a yummy bottle. Don't you just love her face!!!!

Circuit City Sucks

My friend Skippy told me this morning that he went to Circuit City to exchange his MP3 player from blue to black. For some odd and unexplainable reason, they wanted to charge him more just because it was black. No difference in performance or package, just a different color face plate. This all took place after an online customer service rep told him to go to a store 20 minutes from home, waiting in line for an hour only to be told to go to the store 5 minutes from his house. Annoyance has already set in. Now they want to pull this charging an extra $50 for a different color???? Adios Circuit City. I hope your doors close, your walls come crashing down on your over-priced merchandise and the only thing you've got to keep you company in your pile of rubble is a lonely black MP3 player who's battery has run out.

Technology & Me

Alright, so I've never claimed to be a technology genius, in fact I'm down right retarded. Picked up the new iPod for Trav last night (thanks to my bro for running out and actually making hte purchase while I was at bowling) My friend Katie agreed to help me put a couple songs on there just to make it more personal. Well, we get the two songs I'm looking for on there but when she "sync'd" the iPod it brought over the 28 other things that were on there from her iPod as well. Apparently there's this whole process of registering the iPod before you can make any changes to something you've put on there and she's talking about all these things that, to a normal person would be nothing, but I could actually feel my eyes starting to cross. Needless to say, he's going to get it - AS IS - and then he can delete what he wants. I really need to get up to speed with this stuff.

Carolyn's Picture

As promised, here are a few pix of my new "niece" Carolyn Claire. She's so freakin' cute.......... still doesn't make me want one. LOL

Right to Privacy

I just posted about my best friend Caron having her baby yesterday and I'm so excited for her. The plan was her husband Andy would call me after they had the baby and were settled. Well, she went into the hospital at 3a.m. yesterday and I had called to ask her a stupid question. She actually answered her cell phone in the middle of a contraction! Silly girl. That's how I knew she was in labor and of course let the appropriate people know - basically everyone! LOL Well, ever since 10a.m. yesterday when I found out it's been non-stop "Has she had the baby yet? Is she still in labor?" Having no answer the only thing I could say was "No news yet! LOL" Well, I hadn't heard through the night and first thing this morning. Really I didn't stress about it because I knew when they were ready they'd share the great news with the world. Well, apparently, non of my "adult" - and I currently use that term loosely - could wait. One of them who used to work at the hospital called up to her room directly. To me this is just rude which only added to the anger I'd already been steaming over since I found out this person had called up to the nurses station yesterday for details. Now, Caron & Andy are ordinary people going through something that women do everyday. They didn't sign a multi-million dollar contract that gives away their privacy when the last T is crossed. So laides & gentlemen I ask you. If a friend is having a baby, or just going through something important in their lives and say they will share news ........ pull up your big people panties and hold on. The news will get to you, I promise.

Baby Morris is Here!!

It's with great pleasure that I announce the arrival of Caroline to our little planet. She made her grand entrance on March 1st weighing in at 7lb 10 oz and 20" long. Mom & baby are resting comfortably. Congratulations Froggie family!!!

Hi everyone. Today's March 1st, beginning of my favorite month of the year. It's the only month where you can celebrate something for the whole 31 days and is accepted by everyone. So break out the shamrock sunglasses, tint your hair red and your beer green (yes, we do that here) and have a blast. Remember to pick a DL ...... Designated Lepracaun!! ^_-