Rise Above Reason

Welcome Blog Jog Day Visitors!

2011-08-07T01:03:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Thank you for stopping by my Blog! Please enjoy reading it then click on over to The Blue Inkwell at http://theblueinkwell.com to see what's new there!

Please Text Me About Your New Family Values

2011-03-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

I was stuck at the airport in San Francisco (again) and I went outside to get some fresh air. Every time I do this, it seems the perfect photo op for picture to a post with an article like the one I’m writing now. Each time I have been at the airport, I notice 4 or more people standing in line texting or chatting on their cell phones. It's comical how we have become so obsessed with these little technical devices. I’m always tempted to take a picture of this new phenomena and write about it, but I never seem to sit down and do it. That is until now. What inspired me this time? Read on.

I went into T.G.I.F. to grab dinner during my layover (4 hours). Food courts at the airport, especially San Francisco (now considered in the top 5 most expensive place to live in the U.S.), are very expensive and this particular menu has nothing priced less than $16. A family of four came in and sat at the table next to me. Mom, dad, teenage son, and a daughter about the same age. Immediately after sitting down, and even before water was brought to the table, each one of them picked up their cell phones and began to text messages—it was a sight to see—and not a good one in my opinion.

They only refrained long enough for the waitress to take their order and then the entire family continued this until their order was brought to the table. They only stopped because they couldn’t eat and text at the same time (give them more practice!). A $100 or more meal together with no voice.

When I grew up (we won’t mention dates), the family all gathered at the dinner table to eat and discuss our day. When my kid’s were growing up, our generation of parents were accused of not having meals together at the dinner table every night—guilty as charged! We were a busy generation, most moms worked outside the home (for the first time). But we tried, and it wasn’t a “text message” that prevented us from communicating once we had this little and precious time with our family.

What will become of this next generation? Will they be capable of communicating face-to-face at all? Will these kids grow up and commit crimes or become addicts because they never were able to connect with their parents, or vice versa? It happens. I understand the show Intervention is basically a “reality show,” but when you listen to the addicts stories, most of them chose drugs or alcohol because they felt insignificant. Once their families are able to express their love and concern verbally—OUT LOUD—the addict generally agrees to treatment. See the connection here???

I’m afraid for our next generation, and I think the fear is justified. PARENTS! YOUR CHILDREN WILL NOT HATE YOU IF YOU TELL THEM TO PUT DOWN THE PHONE! And parents! Teach your children by example! We are quickly melting into a pot of no human contact, emotional connection, or family values. We call it social networking, but what it really is, is anti-social or recluse.

I have a cell phone; I even have the Internet on it. But you will never see my face buried into it during dinner, while I’m visiting friends, or driving down the road. It’s rude, immature, unsocial, and DANGEROUS!

People! Put your phone down. Enjoy life—real life! Use your cell to call a friend you miss talking to, but only to plan a place you will meet face-to-face and enjoy the perfect conversation together, without a cell phone between you!

Texting While Driving

2011-02-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

PLEASE SHARE AND TWEET THIS!!!!!

Tired of Being Victimized

2011-02-09T10:36:00.001-08:00

This has been an awful time for us. I can’t recall that in the past we’ve had to deal much with crime, but it sure seems we are being “victimized” in excess this year—so far!

It began in December with the break-in and vandalism of our rental home in Oregon. Thieves literally broke down the glass doors and frame, entered, and ransacked the house. More unfortunate is that the house was rented out at the time to a nice gentleman living a “normal,” simple, and honest life. Many of his valuables were stolen. The physical damage to the home cost us over $1,000 to repair. With a $1000 deductable and the fact we had just began a new policy with a new insurance company “that same day,” we were basically “screwed!

Then a few weeks back, a man in Lincoln City shot a police officer and fled. He was cornered and escaped into a housing tract in Waldport. The same tract we have our vacation rental home. We couldn’t allow our scheduled guests to enter the home so all reservations were cancelled for a week. Not only did we lose an estimated $700 in rents (needed to make the payment on the home), but our housekeeper and many others who work in this tract lost their income as did the businesses in town who rely on the tourists to provide their living.

Finally, this week while we are in California, a couple living upstairs from us moved out. In the process of moving, they illegally dumped appliances and furniture in the complex. My husband and I were approached once each for information on the couples activities. Neither one of us even knew of the happenings, but because we are staying directly below the couple, everyone assumed we did—including the couple who thought we were the sole reason they were in trouble—in other words—they thought we “narked” on them. They were mad and let the world know it! That night they made their final move out of the complex.

We woke in the morning to find our car gas cap had been removed. So what are we to think? We can’t start the car in case they put something in the gas tank. So here we go again…tow truck and $400 later to remove the gas tank and see if anything was done to it. I find it hard to be around young people who think the world “owes” them something.

So what’s up here? Is the world going mad? Or is it just dumb luck? It couldn’t be a worse time to have all these added and unnecessary expenses—for us—or anyone for that matter! I miss the days..that’s right, “the days.” Back when things were simpler, drug abuse was not such a huge issue, and crime was at a minimum. People worked hard for a living and were proud—and respectful of others who “deserved” respect. Not “Are you dis’n me?” from some 20 year old with a criminal record. Any comments?

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T19:20:00.000-08:00

This holiday season I am reminded how fortunate I am to have faithful cyber friends like you who come back week after week to read the new posts here on the Rise Above Reason Blog. Over the years, many of you have become personal friends as well, and I am grateful for that blessing in my life.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season wherever it might be that you celebrate the season in this beautiful big World we share!

Fat Old Person?

2010-12-16T07:13:00.000-08:00

“An analysis led by a UC researcher calculates that the number of obese adults over the age of 60 will rise from 14.6 million in 2000 to 20.9 million in 2010--an increase of 43 percent.”

Okay, here’s the thing; Have you ever looked around and seen a really old overweight person? Really, think about it—have you? Probably not. The reason? They DON’T live long enough to get old! Extremely overweight people die early due to all the health problems associated with obesity.

Personally, I can’t recall ever seeing an obese man or woman over 70 years old, and that number might even be lower, say, 65. So don’t worry government study people, I doubt “obese adults over the age of 60” will be our biggest health care issues in the future! More likely, will we have any affordable health care at all?

Just to note: I often wonder how these study results are compiled? Because when my hubby and I play our WII Fit games, the little smart-ass character on there always says “ouch” when I get on the scale and measures my ol man as “obese” (he’s 6’ and 200lbs). Neither one of us are overweight.

How Bad is The Economy? The Economy is so bad. . . .

2010-11-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

Jury Duty is now considered a good-paying job.

African television stations are now showing 'Sponsor an American Child' commercials!
CEO's are now playing miniature golf.

Exxon-Mobil laid off 25 Congressmen.

My ATM gave me an IOU!

A stripper was killed when her audience showered her with rolls of pennies while she danced.

I saw a Mormon polygamist with only one wife.

I bought a toaster oven and my free gift with the purchase was a bank.

If the bank returns your check marked "Insufficient Funds," you have to call them and ask if they meant you or them.

Angelina Jolie adopted a child from America.

Parents in Beverly Hills fired their nannies and learned the names of their children.

My cousin had an exorcism but couldn't afford to pay for it, and they re-possessed her!

A picture is now only worth 200 words.

They renamed Wall Street "Wal-Mart Street."

When Bill and Hillary travel together, they now have to share a room.

One of the casinos in Las Vegas is now managed by Somali pirates.

And, finally.... I was so depressed last night thinking about the economy, wars, jobs, my savings, Social Security, retirement funds, etc., I called the Suicide Hotline. I got a call center in Pakistan, and when I told them I was suicidal, they got all excited, and asked if I could drive a truck.

Still Texting While Driving?

2010-11-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

I understand this is apparently for ages 18 and over, BUT, teens may not reach reach that age without watching this. Please watch this WITH your teens--it really hits home and may just save lives.

A Real Man's Letter to a Helpline

2010-09-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

"Hey Mate, really need your advice for a serious problem.

I have suspected for some time now that the missus has been cheating.
The usual signs; Phone rings, if I answer the caller hangs up, going out with the girls a lot.
I try to stay awake to look out for her when she comes home but I usually fall asleep.

Anyway last night about midnight I hid in the shed behind the boat, when she came home she got out of someone's car buttoning her blouse,
then she took her panties out of her purse and slipped them on... It was at that moment crouched behind the boat I noticed... a "hairline crack" in the outboard mounting bracket... Is that something I can weld or do I need to replace it?"

Dial My Number?

2010-07-07T11:26:00.001-07:00

For us old timers!

Is It Fair?

2010-06-26T21:20:00.001-07:00

I was a bit taken back recently when I, for the first (okay, maybe second) time, was made to feel insignificant as a woman, or should I say, “being a woman.” My hubby and I needed a bid on a new asphalt driveway. I found a reputable company and turned the number and information over to my spouse to handle the bid and set up. He is a great guy but does not handle much of the “house” business; he prefers golf—I understand, we’re retired. But I thought it was time he took charge of some things himself and help me out; so the call was made. After 2 weeks of waiting for a bid, I called the contractor myself to see what was the hold-up as we had a short window of opportunity to get this job done. He was not there when I phoned, so I left him a message to call me back. When he did, we weren’t home. But the message he sent was clearly for Craig and not me. Then the bid came by e-mail—again, for Craig of course. I replied to the e-mail bid with a question and he responded again to Craig. “Hello Craig,” instead of myself. Through all the e-mail transmissions I signed the mail from Carol; he addressed the response to Craig. Am I here? Do I exist? Is this the end of the unfairness? No. Read on.

So as I stated above, I handle most all of the house business. I pay all the bills (we earn the same), I set up our insurances, balance the checkbook, etc. My ol man and I have a deal which he prefers, as long as he can use his ATM for anything he wants or needs he’s happy; I handle the rest. I make the investments that keep up afloat; I even pay the kids tuitions. The hubby rarely has a need to even write a check. Frankly, I doubt he knows where or how much money we have. When I met him he had numerous bills and was regularly late on payments. Since we married nine years ago, those are all paid off and I have successfully showed him how to live well, debt-free. So, where’s the unfairness in all this? We had our credit checked this week. His credit was over 800! I thought that was awesome and assumed because I am the one who handles the money, mine should be better, right? Wrong. Because I am a woman, and ONLY because I am a woman, my credit score was lower. Fair?

Will we ever reach a point where woman is truly equal to man? To this day, a woman with the exact education, GPA, and experience WILL make less money than a man. My only wish is that someday there is equality not only between men and women, but with all of mankind. As always, your comments are welcome.

Rolling Clouds

2010-06-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

After 3 days of warm sunshine, while driving back to Coos Bay from the 5 fwy in Roseburg, this was scary! But lucky for us, it cleared up before we hit the coast.

God and Evolution

2010-06-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

I read this on my friends Blog and LOVED it! So I wanted to share it with my readers as well.

"Let me explain the problem science has with religion."
The atheist professor of philosophy pauses before his class
and then asks one of his new students to stand.

"You're a Christian, aren't you, son?"

"Yes sir," the student says.

"So you believe in God?"

"Absolutely."

"Is God good?"

"Sure! God's good."

"Is God all-powerful? Can God do anything?"

"Yes."

"Are you good or evil?"

"The Bible says I'm evil."

The professor grins knowingly. "Aha! The Bible!" He considers for a moment.
"Here's one for you. Let's say there's a sick person over here
and you can cure him. You can do it.
Would you help him? Would you try?"

"Yes sir, I would."

"So you're good...!"

"I wouldn't say that."
"But why not say that? You'd help a sick and maimed person if you could.
Most of us would if we could. But God doesn't."

The student does not answer, so the professor continues.

"He doesn't, does he? My brother was a Christian who died of cancer,
even though he prayed to Jesus to heal him. How is this Jesus good?
Hmmm? Can you answer that one?"

The student remains silent.

"No, you can't, can you?" the professor says. He takes a sip of water
from a glass on his desk to give the student time to relax.

"Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?"

"Er..yes," the student says.

"Is Satan good?"

The student doesn't hesitate on this one. "No."

"Then where does Satan come from?"

The student falters. "From God."

"That's right. God made Satan, didn't he?
Tell me, son. Is there evil in this world? "

"Yes, sir."

"Evil's everywhere, isn't it"
And God did make everything correct?"

"Yes."

"So who created evil?" The professor continued,
"If God created everything, then God created evil, since evil exists,
and according to the principle that our works define who we are,
then God is evil."
Again, the student has no answer.

"Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness?
All these terrible things, do they exist in this world?"

The student squirms on his feet. "Yes."

"So who created them?"

The student does not answer again,
so the professor repeats his question.
"Who created them?"

There is still no answer. Suddenly the lecturer breaks away to pace
in front of the classroom. The class is mesmerized.

"Tell me," he continues onto another student.
"Do you believe in Jesus Christ, son?"

The student's voice betrays him and cracks.
"Yes, professor, I do."

The old man stops pacing. "Science says you have five senses
you use to identify and observe the world around you.
Have you ever seen Jesus?"

"No sir. I've never seen Him.'

"Then tell us if you've ever heard your Jesus?"

"No, sir, I have not."

"Have you ever felt your Jesus, tasted your Jesus or smelled your Jesus?
Have you ever had any sensory perception of Jesus Christ,
or God for that matter?"
"No, sir, I'm afraid I haven't."

"Yet you still believe in him?"

"Yes."

"According to the rules of empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol,
science says your God doesn't exist. What do you say to that, son?"

"Nothing," the student replies. "I only have my faith."

"Yes, faith," the professor repeats.
"And that is the problem science has with God.
There is no evidence, only faith."

The student stands quietly for a moment,
before asking a question of his own.
"Professor, is there such thing as heat?"

"Yes."

"And is there such a thing as cold?"

"Yes, son, there's cold too."
"No sir, there isn't."

The professor turns to face the student, obviously interested.

The room suddenly becomes very quiet.

The student begins to explain, "You can have lots of heat, even more heat,
super-heat, mega-heat, unlimited heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat,
but we don't have anything called 'cold'. We can hit up to 458 degrees below zero,
which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that.
There is no such thing as cold; otherwise we would be able to go
colder than the lowest -458 degrees. Everybody or object is susceptible
to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body
or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-458 F) is the total absence of heat.
You see, sir, cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat.
We cannot measure cold. Heat we can measure in thermal units because heat is energy.
Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it."

Silence across the room.
A pen drops somewhere in the classroom,
sounding like a hammer.

"What about darkness, professor.
Is there such a thing as darkness?"

"Yes," the professor replies without hesitation.
"What is night if it isn't darkness?"

"You're wrong again, sir.

Darkness is not something; it is the absence of something.
You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light,
but if you have no light constantly
you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it?
That's the meaning we use to define the word. In reality, darkness isn't.
If it were, you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?"

The professor begins to smile at the student in front of him.
This will be a good semester.
"So what point are you making, young man?"

"Yes, professor. My point is, your philosophical premise is flawed to start with,
and so your conclusion must also be flawed."

The professor's face cannot hide his surprise this time.
"Flawed? Can you explain how?"

"You are working on the premise of duality," the student explains.
"You argue that there is life and then there's death; a good God and a bad God.
You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure.
Sir, science can't even explain a thought.
It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen,
much less fully understood either one.
To view death as the opposite of life is t o be ignorant of the fact that
death cannot exist as a substantive thing.
Death is not the opposite of life, just the absence of it.

"Now tell me, professor.
Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?"

"If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, young man,
yes, of course I do."

"Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?"

The professor begins to shake his head, still smiling, as he realizes
where the argument is going. A very good semester, indeed.

"Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work
and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavor,
are you not teaching your opinion, sir?
Are you now not a scientist, but a preacher?"

The class is in uproar. The student remains silent
until the commotion has subsided.

"To continue the point you were making earlier to the other student,
let me give you an example of what I mean." The student looks around the room.
"Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the professor's brain?"

The class breaks out into laughter.

"Is there anyone here who has ever heard the professor's brain,
felt the professor's brain, touched or smelled the professor's brain?
No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of
empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol,science says that you have no brain,
with all due respect, sir. So if science says you have no brain,
how can we trust your lectures, sir?"

Now the room is silent.
The professor just stares at the student, his face unreadable.

Finally, after what seems an eternity, the old man answers.
"I guess you'll have to take them on faith."

"Now, you accept that there is faith, and, in fact, faith exists with life,"
the student continues. "Now, sir, is there such a thing as evil?"

Now uncertain, the professor responds, "Of course, there is. We see it every day.
It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man.
It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world.
These manifestations are nothing else but evil."

To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist sir,
or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God.
It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created
to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil.
Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have
God's love present in his heart.
It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat
or the darkness that comes when there is no light."

The professor sat down.

The student was Albert Einstein.

Still Trying to Get Money from Me – Has This Become the Norm?

2010-05-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

I’m wondering if business schools have recently added a class called “How to Rake Your Customer?” It seems nearly imposible to find a completely honest and upfront entity to do business with. As with my previous post “Desperate Measures Online" (scroll down 3), this one addresses a similar situation I recently had with my C.P.A. We’ve been using his services for tax preparation for many years now. I drive 1 ½ hour to get my taxes done because I thought he was a pretty good tax man—expensive, but good and he had been recommended by an associate of his (soon realizing that was his buddy, but nonetheless, he was a good C.P.A.).

So here’s the rest of the story. We were buying a home last fall and the bank (very picky nowadays) wanted a note from our C.P.A. saying my pension (I’m retired) would continue until 2016—as it will. I called my tax guy and asked if he could write a letter stating that based on previous returns, it may do so. He said no, he couldn’t do that—I understood why, he does not know—no problem. He did ask which bank and who was doing the loan. A few days later, my lender got a form letter from the C.P.A. stating he was not allowed to release information regarding his clients. Didn’t matter, we got the loan and love the house.

So as scheduled this March, I go see the tax man to get the taxes done for 2009. Upon entering the office, his receptionist hands me a "contract" saying their new policy allows for billing for phone or other consultations—sign here. I read the paper and signed (laughing inside of course). When I went into his personal office, before he even greeted me, he asked if I had signed the “contract.” Now I do understand this new policy. After all, I only pay him to prepare my tax return. But I immediately questioned (in my mind of course) his tactics and lack of explaining this new policy to me.

So a month later, in the mail, I get my return to sign and mail to the I.R.S. and others. With that, was the bill for services rendered including a $50 consultation fee for 6 months earlier as well as a $50 consultation fee for the date of my tax appointment. Mind you, the real part of the bill was $525.00 for tax preparation (about $100 higher than last year). I couldn’t believe my eyes—what nerve! So I did what any frustrated, over-taxed and under patient person would do, I wrote him a letter.

“I’m a bit surprised, or maybe not, at your bold attempts at “sucking” money from your clients. Who by the way, have paid their bills, showed up to appointments on time, and faithfully recommended you to friends and family for services—not any longer.

I’m especially surprised at the tactics you used to try and get additional fees from your clients. Do you think we are all stupid? When your secretary (poor gal) hands me a “contract” to sign (right now of course, before the appointment), I’m not dumb enough that I don’t know what that’s all about. But, because the “contract” is dated with my signature, and I know you can’t legally bill me for past uninformed and useless consultation, I’ll sign, but at the point when I wrote my name on that paper, it was in question in my mind, “Do I really want to continue doing business with this guy?”

Your illegal attempts to collect “consultation” fees have failed. Not only am I not obligated to pay your fees as listed on your invoice dated 05/07/2010 (and will not), I will now take my business elsewhere; to somebody a tad more honest. Personally, I hope all your clients drop you like a hot potato; you don’t deserve their business.

Remember my first book about running a business, you should read it. It discusses the importance of honesty in business.Get some character, decency, honesty, and common sense and good luck with your future business, you’ll need it.”

Now maybe that’s a little harsh, but I am getting tired of “round-a-bout” business tactics used in our society. Are there any straight-forward, honest, or service oriented businesses around any longer? I ran a business for 15 years and I NEVER would have tried to pull this on my clients. Had he said, “I’m going to have to charge you a fee if you call me for information in the future” I probably would have kept him as my C.P.A.

Could this be one of the reasons for business failure?

Michael J Fox - My New Hero!

2010-05-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

While reading an interview with Michael J. Fox in the May issue of Reader’s Digest, I think I may have found my new favorite quote; check it out:

“Don’t spend a lot of time imagining the worst-case scenario. It rarely goes down as you imagine it will, and if by some fluke it does, you will have lived it twice.” Michael J. Fox

Is this for real? Did he really come up with this? I think I love this guy! This little quote, found by pure accident, could possibly change my life (and yours). I realize for every time someone says, “Don’t worry” they are basically intending the same message. But this is different. Here’s the story.

I’ve recently had this growing pain in my abdominal area. Of course I went to the doc and had some tests. Imaging showed the doc, not me, a mass in my abdomen (I will not get too specific, ahh!). After describing it to me, his following words to me were, “I don’t know what to make of this.” Of course on the outside, my demeanor showed a capable and calm lady waiting patiently for my physicians’ follow-up recommendation. A little different feeling on the inside; “Excuse me? You’re a doctor! What the hell do you mean you don’t know what to make of it???”

So off I go into nearly two weeks of “the waiting game.” And guess what happened when I finally went to the recommended Physician who might know what this is? You got it! It is of course, nothing to worry about. At least not worry to the point of losing sleep or drifting off into panic land. So basically, I lived a nightmare when I should have been living my wonderful life. Another small life lesson learned. Thank you Michael J. Fox, you’re two weeks too late this time, but I will never forget your words!

Welcome to My Blog!

2010-05-08T23:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Blog Jog Day!! So glad you stopped by. Please enjoy my Blog then jog on over to http://crossroadsexcerpts.blogspot.com/ to see another wonderful Blog!

If you would like to visit a different Blog in the jog, go to http://blogjogday.blogspot.com.

Please don't forget to leave a comment or "Follow" this Blog while you're here!

Desperate Measures Online

2010-05-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

I love the way you sign up for free trials and the company “accidentally” or under some other deceitful manner continues to bill you. The following is an actual e-mail series of transmissions I recently had with such a company. I signed up for a trial period to list my vacation rental. I didn’t see good results so I cancelled the account. Yes, I’m sarcastic, but I think one needs to be to see any action.

Greetings,
I received a notice that my free trial was up and I replied to cancel. I now have a charge for $29 on my credit card. Please credit back the charge and make sure this account and all my personal financial information is removed safely "please. My e-mail for confirmation is **********.
Thank you,
Carol

Hi Carol,
I do not see any account under the email address of *********. Please provide me with the email address you used to create your account and the last name of the credit card holder so that I can pull up your account.
Best Regards,
Kristen
Customer Care

Hello Kristen,
Thank you for your response. The e-mail address is **********. We
recently changed e-mail addresses. The card charged in my
name, Carol *****.
Thank you,
Carol

Hi Carol,
Thank you for your email. I took a look at your account and did find the email request to cancel - however, a representative did call and leave a voice mail for you and also sent you an email informing you that your account was extended on the Free Trail for an additional 60 Days.
Your Free Trial ended April 21st - and you also received an email 7 days prior to the completion of the extended Free Trial. At this time I am not able to refund the last charge of $29.99 - however, since you already did pay for this month - would you like to keep it live on the site until May 20th - which is the last day before your next billing date?
Please let me know how you would like to proceed.
Best,
Danielle

Hello Danielle,
Thank you for your e-mail. Now please do not be telling me you received my
request to cancel this account and did not do so because you say you left a
voice message which of course was never received. I asked you to cancel and
I appreciate that I need to do no more than that. Otherwise, one might
perceive this as a gimmick, or fraud. I know your company wouldn't want to
be viewed that way.
Also, I have a new e-mail address as you can probably see from our
messaging.
Please remove the charge immediately. I will accept this has been done by
one e-mail from you stating so.
Thank you,
Carol Denbow

Carol,
Thank you so much for your email - I am sorry you never received the voice mail or email sent to you regarding your 60 Day Extension. At this point I have refunded the last charge of $29.99 and have canceled your account.
Please note that at this time everything has been deleted - If you do decide to re-list - you will need to start from the beginning.
Best,
Danielle

Danielle,
Thank you and have a beautiful day.
Carol

Us Girls Age Too!

2010-04-02T08:49:00.001-07:00

I had to share this with you; it's just too funny--or maybe too true!

A group of 40 year old girlfriends discussed where they should me
for dinner.

Finally it was agreed upon that they should meet at the Ocean View
restaurant because the waiters there had tight pants and nice buns.

10 years later at 50 years of age, the group once again discussed where
they should meet for dinner. Finally it was agreed that they should meet
at the Ocean View restaurant because the food there was very good and the
wine selection was good also.

10 years later at 60 years of age, the group once again discussed where
they should meet for dinner. Finally it was agreed that they
should meet at the Ocean View restaurant because they could eat
there in peace and quiet and the restaurant had a beautiful
view of the ocean.

10 years later, at 70 years of age, the group once again discussed where
they should meet for dinner. Finally it was agreed that they should meet
at the Ocean View restaurant because the restaurant was wheel chair
accessible and they even had an elevator.

10 years later, at 80 years of age, the group once again discussed
where they should meet for dinner. Finally it was agreed that
they should meet at the Ocean View restaurant because they had
never been there before.

Is Google Really Changing it's Name to Topeka?

2010-04-01T08:17:00.000-07:00

So is Google really called "Topeka" now? According to the search box, yes. Why? They say they like the name and quoted, “all roads lead to Kansas.” When you click on the Google logo, there is a long explanation for the change. This is big news and may take some time to get used to. Personally, I don’t see it as a smart move, but then again, I’m not as in-tune as the Google promotional team is.

So what is Google and how did they originate? Here’s the story from Wikipedia.

Google began in January 1996 as a research project by Larry Page and Sergey Brin when they were both PhD students at Stanford University in California While conventional search engines ranked results by counting how many times the search terms appeared on the page, the two theorized about a better system that analyzed the relationships between websites. They called this new technology PageRank, where a website's relevance was determined by the number of pages, and the importance of those pages, that linked back to the original site. A small search engine called Rankdex was already exploring a similar strategy. Page and Brin originally nicknamed their new search engine "BackRub," because the system checked backlinks to estimate the importance of a site. Eventually, they changed the name to Google, originating from a misspelling of the word "googol", the number one followed by one hundred zeros, which was meant to signify the amount of information the search engine was to handle. Originally, Google ran under the Stanford University website, with the domain google.stanford.edu. The domain google.com was registered on September 15, 1997, and the company was incorporated on September 4, 1998, at a friend's garage in Menlo Park, California.

Article link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google
Entire article re-posted from A Book Inside

So the next time you want to say to someone “Google it,” remember, it’s “Topeka it” now! Or could it be April 1st?

Sorry, Gotta Go (literally!)

2010-03-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

Out of shear curiosity and the fact I nearly pottied my britches yesterday waiting in a line for the bathroom, I just had to try and find out why it is as we get closer to the bathroom, our urge to go gets stronger? I hadn’t waited until the “last moment” to go to the bathroom, I went only because I knew there wouldn’t be another opportunity for a while. But as I waited in the line for an open stall, I nearly had an accident. Of course it gets much worse when I’m in the stall prepping myself to sit and go.

So I went online and tried to find a medical explanation for this. My first problem was, what do I Google? So I put in “Why do I have to pee more when I get closer to a bathroom?” Here’s what I learned first; folks, don’t allow your children to Google strange things out of the blue! Wow, there is some weird information out there I can’t imagine anyone really needs to know! After several attempts at moving and changing the wording of my search, I eventually found this (and not exactly the medical answer I was hoping for, but all I could find):

The question was posted on Askville; "Why do people need to go to the bathroom when they get close to home or right when they open the door, rush to pee?"

Answers posted:

“(I had a long answer and it just vanished, this sucks, so here is a much shorter version)

I think a lot of it is from excitement and anticipation of being home or to the special place. I know that is the case with my boys, and then throw in a Small Bladder and look out. Thank god for Pampers size 7 and the new Under jams.

Also the fact that as we get home from a trip we start to relax and when you pull in that driveway you do relax and when that happens and the muscles around the bladder start to relax, look out!!!”

About the best answer I found, and still not exactly what I hoped for was:

“As for myself, I seem to "suffer" that the closer I get to the restroom, similar to a nursing "let down" if you will. I think we program ourselves that way, much like Pavlov's dog who when a bell was rang started salivating in anticipation of food.”

That’s it. If anyone knows the medical reason, please let me know. Gotta go now! LOL!

What the Hey?? Is this America?

2010-03-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

Of recent, as people chat about the politically induced events happening in our country, I have chalked it up to gossip. You know, the normal, everyone favors the presidential elective until they are in office, then, true to our reputation, we Americans dislike our new official. It seems to be a regular occurrence with our populous. Myself? I’ve always believed if we, the majority, elect a U.S. president, it is our obligation to support him. I mean, how does it look to the rest of the world if we hate our leader? I’ll step forward and say how it looks—weak as a people and as a nation!

Now like I stated, I am not a complainer by nature. Sure, I hurt, I bitch, we all do. But for the most part, I keep these opinions to myself—not after yesterday. This may sound stupid to some, but as a “big picture” it frightened me. I go to the local smoke shop to buy a pack of suicide sticks (I know, I seem much more intelligent than that), the only bad habit I have, okay, “really” bad habit, I get it, I get it! When I walk in the door I immediately notice numerous changes in the place. I ask the merchant, “What’s up?” She told me that because of the new laws, her store had to change. No longer is she allowed to have any signage outside (no advertizing). All inside advertizing MUST be in black and white only. What and why are my questions. In addition, nobody is allowed to touch the cigarettes until they are purchased. She said they gave no explanation for any of this.

So basically, because I smoke, I am not allowed to see color any longer—bad me! She also told me the new e-cigarettes are now illegal. For those of you who don’t know what an e-cigarette is, it is a safe alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes. It also produces no second-hand smoke (learn about them at http://smokeecig.blogspot.com/). I use them to reduce my tobacco use. So why then is it illegal? One BIG reason is likely because the tobacco companies are losing money; that means less tobacco tax collected.

For the first time I see what the beef is about and I’m onboard. So ultimately, where are we? I don’t want to live in North Korea or Russia in the 70’s. I can only be thankful I am getting older, and hopefully, my world won’t change much more before I die because old people don’t adapt well to change!

Okay, We’re Not Actually DYING at Age 25!

2010-03-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

So as a follow-up to the post “So When You’re Feeling Old…” (2 posts down), I wanted to ask the question “why is our generation trying so desperately not to age?” Your comments on that last post got me really thinking (a rare happening).

Just so you know what age group I’m referring to, I’ll tell you my age, I’m exactly fiftyisheraboutintheresomewhere years old. My generation does not appear to accept the aging process and mortality well at all. We will all die, it’s inevitable. But how we handle the road to that point is either with grace or through rush-hour traffic.

I myself have had my share of dread entangled with my thoughts of getting old(er). Turning 50 was a drag to say the least, and with menopause at its peak then, it was truly an uphill battle. A battle I didn’t need since my knees are giving out as well!

So then why the heavy face creams, Botox, hair color, laser, tweezers, lifts, and polish? I don’t recall my parents being so concerned. Maybe it’s because they had such a hard life in comparison that the end sounded better for them??? We, (my generation) are a tad on the spoiled side. Most of us had the Ozzie and Harriet upbringing, the real estate and stock market boom, and technology growth to make our lives easier, maybe too easy. Is it possible we just don’t want to leave a good thing so we try desperately not to age at all?

One thing I am especially thankful for is that I was not born into the present “I want” generation of computer kids living without the simplest good things in life from our time, i.e., building a skateboard from old roller skates (after you lose the key), shooting croquet in the backyard, playing board games with family.

The way I see it, I’ve earned each and every wrinkle and every gray hair on my head (although I’ll color until the day I die!!). I never let a day go by where I don’t thank God for the gifts in my life; my kids, hubby, family, and friends.

So when it’s “my turn to go,” I will be ready for the next adventure. By that time (hopefully not too soon!), I’ll be anxious to leave what this world has become in hopes there is something better in the world beyond (and I’ll go there without a single gray hair on my head).

Men; Can’t Live Without Them, Can’t Kill Them

2010-03-20T20:28:00.000-07:00

Why is it that we have such a hard time understanding men, and in all fairness, them understanding us? I know the reason and I’m going to share it with you! But not so fast…to first educate you men, here are the real definitions of words we woman use:

1. Fine - I am right. This argument is over. You need to shut up.
2. That's Okay - One of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. "That's okay" means she wants to think hard and long before deciding when and how you'll pay for your mistake.
3. Nothing - The calm before the storm. This means "Something" and you better be on your toes. Note: Arguments that start with "Nothing" usually end with "Fine" (See #1).
4. Five Minutes - If getting dressed, this means half an hour. (Don't be mad about this. It's the same definition for you when it's your turn to do some chores around the house.)
5. Thanks - A woman is thanking you. Do not question this or faint. Just say, "You're welcome," and let it go.
6. Loud Sigh - Not actually a word but rather a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. It means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is standing here wasting her time arguing with you about "Nothing." (See #3)
7. Go Ahead - This is a dare, not permission. (Don't Do It!)
8. Don't worry about it, I got it - The second most dangerous statement a woman can make. It means that a woman has asked a man several times to do something and is now doing it herself. (This will result in you asking at a later date, "What's wrong?" For the woman's response, see #3.)

Okay, so why is it so hard for us gals and guys to understand each other (although I think that list made things pretty clear to the men)? It is because we woman think with our hearts and emotions. Men, on the other hand, see the world in black and white. If you tell a man something and assume he’ll “get” the meaning of what you’re saying or he “should” understand what you mean or want, I have news for you, he probably won’t! Be clear girls and spell it out. Your man wants you to be happy and he knows that’s in his best interest! So tell him word for word, clear as day, and to the point what it is you need or want from him. Now watch your relationship smooth out!

Now guys, for your future safety, remember this final thought, “women always have the last word in an argument. Anything a man adds after that is the beginning of a new argument.”

Word list courtesy of http://www.jokesclean.com

So When You’re Feeling Old...

2010-03-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

I think its sad how the body ages, and never gracefully! Everybody knows that as soon as we are born, and even before, our body grows and develops; but for how long? Well I found out and it’s a sad story!

We develop and grow until the age of 25 (mentally it often takes much longer, LOL!). But after that point, we actually begin to grow old, age, mature, flat out rot! That’s right, after the ripe age of 25, our bodies actually begin to die. Now isn’t that the most frightening thing?

My youngest child will be 25 in April; now I am depressed! It’s hard enough to realize my own body is rotting away, but my baby as well?

So I guess the question is, how young can you die of old age?

Please Don't Stalk Me, But Following is Okay!

2010-03-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

Follow me through Blogger, Twitter, or link to me? Have an interesting Blog? Let's swap links!

What Defines an Addiction Anyway?

2010-03-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

When we think about addictions, we typically think drugs, alcohol, or gambling. And although a couple of these may be mildly settled into my own life, they are not my greatest fear. What is an addiction? According to Web by Google it is “being abnormally tolerant to and dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming (especially alcohol or narcotic drugs) an abnormally strong craving.”

So what is my biggest fear of addiction? Freaken golf, that’s what it is! You might ask how one becomes addicted to a sport most find boring? F.Y.I, Vincent Cooper, a.k.a., Alice Cooper had a terrible alcohol problem back in his hard rock days of performing and “conforming” to the life of a rock and roll superstar; he was, and still is, an alcoholic. But Mr. Alice managed to control his addiction by replacing it with a less harmful one (or you would think). Freaken golf! So I share this sick addiction with the king of snakes of all people!

Okay, now let me explain what happened today. First off, in case you don’t understand this silly game, let me briefly fill you in. The ultimate goal of a golfer is the “hole in one.” That means, and let me be very clear, you hit the ball from the “tee” (the starting point of each golf hole on the course), you sink the ball into the little hole on the green (the ending point on each golf hole) in not two, not three, not four or more, but one, and only “one” shot!

If a regular golfer gets a “hole in one” just once in their lifetime, it’s good; that’s how special it is. So today I got a “hole in three;” even more rare and disgustingly sad for any golfer. Let me further explain.

Freddie Couples is a professional golfer on the P.G.A. tour. He once hit his tee shot (first shot on the hole) directly into a pond; what a bummer! Now the rules say he has to hit the shot again. But this time it is counted as shot number three. As the rules go, shot number one went into the water, shot number two is counted by bringing the ball back to the tee, and then the next shot counts as shot number three. So he hits this third shot and the ball goes in the hole for not a “hole in one,” but a hole in three! Three would normally be “par” for the hole. Today, I did this. Me and Freddie Couples, pouting together for eternity!

Even if you have never played the game, please sympathize with me and Freddie here—it’s a real bummer! So I am addicted to the game of golf. Maybe I should take up bowling?

What's Hot, What's Not on Googles Top Results

2010-03-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

What are the hottest items, events, or topics right now? Google knows. So out of sheer curiosity and just for the fun of it, I thought I would see what comes up on top in the Google Search box when I entered each letter of the alphabet one-at-a-time. Here are the results:

a - amazon
b - best buy
c – craigslist (I love CraigsList!)
d – dictionary
e – ebay
f – facebook
g – gmail
h – hotmail
i – imdb
j – jet blue
k – kohls
l – lowes
m – myspace
n – netflix
o – office depot
p – Pandora
q – quotes
r – realtor.com
s – southwest airlines
t – target (but Tiger Woods came in a close second!)
u – usps
v – verizon wireless
w – walmart
x – xbox 360 (not a lot of competition for “x”)
y – youtube
z - zillow

Holy cow! Am I mistaken, or aren’t we in a recession? Most of these search results are for retail stores. And what the heck is imdb and zillow? I guess I’ll go back to Google Search and find out!

Folks, this is the world we live in today. But tomorrow, these results might change. Let’s face it, Google knows all and if your business is at the top of their list, it’s most likely at the top of the retail market as well!

Body Odor Closeby

2010-03-17T21:50:00.000-07:00

So I went to the local casino this week and just as the penny machine I was playing began to hit big, a guy sat down next to me to play and immediately I noticed a horrible odor drifting at me—it was the big B.O.! Body odor at its very worst! Either this poor fellow had a medical condition or simply hadn’t bathed in a very long time. The stench was overwhelming. So what do you do in this situation? Here I am, finally happy to find a generous slot machine. But as I watch the pennies racking up in what should be a small-time celebration, all I can do is try to control the nauseous feeling quickly forming in my tummy.

I turned away as distant as I could and leaned off far from the man—and the machine. I had high hopes my new found lucky streak would extend to the possibility this smelly man would move on quickly—no such luck. The beverage waitress comes along, “drinks anyone?” Of course the man with B.O. replies, “I’ll have coffee”—not good. I hoped she might return with the coffee and the man’s machine might be so tight that he moves on—with his coffee. Bad luck again, for me that is; his machine began to pay, and pay big it did. For his twenty cent bet he racked up over $100.00 in a flash.

Meanwhile, here I am, leaning way over to one side trying to breathe some fresh air and allow my machine to finish paying off so I can leave. I can’t say the $30.00 I won was worth the “pain,” but it did make me wonder… did he ever notice I was swaying away from him? If so, did he wonder why, or does he know he smells bad? Does a person with extreme body odor not smell themselves at some point? Is it necessary for a person to carry Vicks Vapor Rub in their pocket for such instances? Would it be considered truly rude to inform an individual about their odor problem? What about bad breath? I guess that’s a whole different topic; maybe tomorrows post.

Welcome to My New Blog

2010-03-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

Wow! A new Blog about something, nothing, or everything! Let’s talk, shall we? My mind is like jello; no matter how I try to stop analyzing life and its contents, I just can’t keep it still!

So here I will chat with you about everything under the sun, or should I say, under the sun in “my mind!”

Keep stopping by here and I guarantee a new “twisted” adventure in Blog posting with regularity and confusion to interest all.