Quote of the Day:
"Women are like tea bags. They don't know how strong they are until they get into hot water."
- E. Roosevelt
[From my Honest Tea bottle cap]
Sunday, August 31, 2003
Saturday, August 30, 2003
Disturbing Sight of the Day:
As I was driving to our local famers' market today I saw something that bothered me. In front of a house there was a very pregnant woman in a mumu watering her yard. In one hand she held the hose and in the other a cigarette and a can of Budweiser.
Poor child, not even born yet and already abused.
As I was driving to our local famers' market today I saw something that bothered me. In front of a house there was a very pregnant woman in a mumu watering her yard. In one hand she held the hose and in the other a cigarette and a can of Budweiser.
Poor child, not even born yet and already abused.
Friday, August 29, 2003
Ok, now for a much overdue episode of
100 Things About Me (Episode 9: #s 70):
71. In love, I have hurt others, but usually I was the one who got hurt (fortunately this is no longer an issue).
72. I have never hunted.
73. I love the meditative state I go into when I am swimming.
74. Math and the natural sciences come naturally to me, but I find them terribly boring. I am more drawn to the social sciences.
75. I can’t stand the taste of gin.
76. I would like to relive my childhood except that it would mean that I would have to go through adolescence again.
77. I enjoy watching people.
78. I have eaten insects on my own free will – I did not like them.
100 Things About Me (Episode 9: #s 70):
71. In love, I have hurt others, but usually I was the one who got hurt (fortunately this is no longer an issue).
72. I have never hunted.
73. I love the meditative state I go into when I am swimming.
74. Math and the natural sciences come naturally to me, but I find them terribly boring. I am more drawn to the social sciences.
75. I can’t stand the taste of gin.
76. I would like to relive my childhood except that it would mean that I would have to go through adolescence again.
77. I enjoy watching people.
78. I have eaten insects on my own free will – I did not like them.
Evil Telemarketers...
Just now the phone rang and when I answered it I got a recording, "Thank you for your patience while holding." It is bad enough that anytime I call any type of business I have to engage in a finger dance on my phone's dials and wait for far too long before I can speak to a human being. Now someone who is trying to sell me something puts me on hold before assaulting me with a sales pitch. I can't believe their gumption.
I hung up right away. But I wonder how many people might actually sit there and wait...
Just now the phone rang and when I answered it I got a recording, "Thank you for your patience while holding." It is bad enough that anytime I call any type of business I have to engage in a finger dance on my phone's dials and wait for far too long before I can speak to a human being. Now someone who is trying to sell me something puts me on hold before assaulting me with a sales pitch. I can't believe their gumption.
I hung up right away. But I wonder how many people might actually sit there and wait...
Pig Roast...
I am not a big meat eater, but yesterday I went with my neighbor to a local pub for their weekly pig roast. It wasn't quite what I imagined. In my mind there was going to be an open spit with a whole pig (apple in its mouth, of course) roasting. In reality there was a barrel roaster in the parking lot and inside it was pretty much a typical night, except you could order roasted pork. Yes, I did get the pork and it was pretty good, tender and moist. However, since my stomach is not used to confronting large quantities of meat, I have had a hard time digesting.
Today will definitely be a cleansing day: fresh fruits and vegetables only. Ok, I had yogurt for breakfast and a requisite cup of coffee, so sue me.
I am not a big meat eater, but yesterday I went with my neighbor to a local pub for their weekly pig roast. It wasn't quite what I imagined. In my mind there was going to be an open spit with a whole pig (apple in its mouth, of course) roasting. In reality there was a barrel roaster in the parking lot and inside it was pretty much a typical night, except you could order roasted pork. Yes, I did get the pork and it was pretty good, tender and moist. However, since my stomach is not used to confronting large quantities of meat, I have had a hard time digesting.
Today will definitely be a cleansing day: fresh fruits and vegetables only. Ok, I had yogurt for breakfast and a requisite cup of coffee, so sue me.
Thursday, August 28, 2003
MLK Jr.
Thank you Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
Everytime I hear the speech you gave 40 years ago at the Lincoln Memorial, I am deeply moved and I get goosebumps.
You made this country a better place.
Thank you Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
Everytime I hear the speech you gave 40 years ago at the Lincoln Memorial, I am deeply moved and I get goosebumps.
You made this country a better place.
Updates...
Whaling:
A while ago I posted on how dismayed I was about resumption of Icelandic whaling. I recently came across an intersting posting by Kristiv who lives in Iceland. It gives a different perspective on the issue. I do understand that Minke whales are not endangered, yet it still bothers me because I have witnessed the grace and magesty of these animals. I understand that it is hypocritical for me to favor the life of one animal over another, but that's the way I feel.
Illegal Immigrants in RI:
Syrian - Sen. Lincoln Chafee (one of the few honorable politicians) has become involved in the case. He is trying to get a stay of the deportation order until the fall. By then the Syrian man's wife will receive her citizenship and be able to keep her husband in the country. Sen. Chafee, who is traveling to Jordan to participate in peace talks, will bring up the issue with Jordanian officials so that he can be sent there if he is deported, rather than being sent back to Syria where he could face retaliation.
Guatemalan - His stay has been extended until the end of September so that his lawyers can review his case.
Whaling:
A while ago I posted on how dismayed I was about resumption of Icelandic whaling. I recently came across an intersting posting by Kristiv who lives in Iceland. It gives a different perspective on the issue. I do understand that Minke whales are not endangered, yet it still bothers me because I have witnessed the grace and magesty of these animals. I understand that it is hypocritical for me to favor the life of one animal over another, but that's the way I feel.
Illegal Immigrants in RI:
Syrian - Sen. Lincoln Chafee (one of the few honorable politicians) has become involved in the case. He is trying to get a stay of the deportation order until the fall. By then the Syrian man's wife will receive her citizenship and be able to keep her husband in the country. Sen. Chafee, who is traveling to Jordan to participate in peace talks, will bring up the issue with Jordanian officials so that he can be sent there if he is deported, rather than being sent back to Syria where he could face retaliation.
Guatemalan - His stay has been extended until the end of September so that his lawyers can review his case.
Quitin' the Quizes
Now that I am fully aware of the person that I never knew I was thanks to the multiple quizes I have taken over the past few days, I will refrain from taking any more. Ok, if there is one that looks like fun maybe I will take it, but this needs to stop. I discovered some of the most inane things through the magical journey. Quizes to determine what type of sex porn star you are, what kind of condom you are, what item of clothing best describes you, and on and on. Some people just have too much free time on their hands and help those of us who don't to fall in a destructive cycle of procrastination. I also believe in taking resposibility in one's own actions and I am breaking the cycle, so I say "Enough!"
Maybe there is a 12 step program I can join.
Now that I am fully aware of the person that I never knew I was thanks to the multiple quizes I have taken over the past few days, I will refrain from taking any more. Ok, if there is one that looks like fun maybe I will take it, but this needs to stop. I discovered some of the most inane things through the magical journey. Quizes to determine what type of sex porn star you are, what kind of condom you are, what item of clothing best describes you, and on and on. Some people just have too much free time on their hands and help those of us who don't to fall in a destructive cycle of procrastination. I also believe in taking resposibility in one's own actions and I am breaking the cycle, so I say "Enough!"
Maybe there is a 12 step program I can join.
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
More self-actualization:
YOU ARE CHAMOMILE
What herb are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
This might explain why I put people to sleep.
YOU ARE CHAMOMILE
What herb are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
This might explain why I put people to sleep.
Another step in a journey of self-discovery:
What Psych-Ward do you belong to?
I guess this fits in with being a geek liason and an imaginary number.
What Psych-Ward do you belong to?
I guess this fits in with being a geek liason and an imaginary number.
Continuing with the Quiz taking....
...I figured out what number I am (sort of)...[link brought to me by Sara]
what number are you?
this quiz by orsa
What does that mean? What would Descartes have to say about this?
...I figured out what number I am (sort of)...[link brought to me by Sara]
I am an imaginary number 1i I don't really exist _ |
this quiz by orsa
What does that mean? What would Descartes have to say about this?
Random Movie Thoughts...
Just finished watching El Crimen del Padre Amaro...
Holy Cow!
Or as we say in Mexico, Ayayayay!
I think I liked it (I am still thinking about it - but movies that I have to think about are usually the ones I like), but don't see it if you are a hardcore practicing Catholic because you will be offended. Unless, of course, you are a hardcore practicing Catholic that likes to be offended.
I do find it amazing that it was made in Mexico, the most Catholic country that I know. And it was a hit there.
It is also telling that a Portuguese book written in 1875 by Jose Maria Eca de Queiroz can be remade into a contemporary film that resonates with current events. The Church really has not changed all that much over the past 100 years.
Just finished watching El Crimen del Padre Amaro...
Holy Cow!
Or as we say in Mexico, Ayayayay!
I think I liked it (I am still thinking about it - but movies that I have to think about are usually the ones I like), but don't see it if you are a hardcore practicing Catholic because you will be offended. Unless, of course, you are a hardcore practicing Catholic that likes to be offended.
I do find it amazing that it was made in Mexico, the most Catholic country that I know. And it was a hit there.
It is also telling that a Portuguese book written in 1875 by Jose Maria Eca de Queiroz can be remade into a contemporary film that resonates with current events. The Church really has not changed all that much over the past 100 years.
Tuesday, August 26, 2003
I took the Geek Quiz...
Results:
Just as I suspected...
Results:
| You are 35% geek | You are a geek liaison, which means you go both ways. You can hang out with normal people or you can hang out with geeks which means you often have geeks as friends and/or have a job where you have to mediate between geeks and normal people. This is an important role and one of which you should be proud. In fact, you can make a good deal of money as a translator.
|
Take the Polygeek Quiz at Thudfactor.com
Just as I suspected...
Today's reminder that I am not as young as I used to be...
I washed and waxed our car. By then end when I was trying to get the grime splashed up by the wheels, I was hurting. I remember when I could wash and wax a couple of cars and then run off and play tennis, go swimming, and stay out late. Car looks good, though. Too bad I don't.
I washed and waxed our car. By then end when I was trying to get the grime splashed up by the wheels, I was hurting. I remember when I could wash and wax a couple of cars and then run off and play tennis, go swimming, and stay out late. Car looks good, though. Too bad I don't.
Monday, August 25, 2003
100 Things About Me (Episode 8: #s 65-69):
65. I fractured my skull in two places when I was three after falling head-first off a six-foot wall onto concrete.
66. I have been to 36 states (and DC) in the US and 28 (and the Federal District) in Mexico (Bonus points to the person who can tell me how many states there are in Mexico - the official name is after all the United Mexican States).
67. I went swimming in the Baltic Sea – it was very cold.
68. I almost knocked down former Italian Prime Minister and current EU President Romano Prodi on a street in Bologna (that’s my thing – I almost knock down famous people).
69. I love downhill skiing, but it is too expensive.
65. I fractured my skull in two places when I was three after falling head-first off a six-foot wall onto concrete.
66. I have been to 36 states (and DC) in the US and 28 (and the Federal District) in Mexico (Bonus points to the person who can tell me how many states there are in Mexico - the official name is after all the United Mexican States).
67. I went swimming in the Baltic Sea – it was very cold.
68. I almost knocked down former Italian Prime Minister and current EU President Romano Prodi on a street in Bologna (that’s my thing – I almost knock down famous people).
69. I love downhill skiing, but it is too expensive.
Sunday, August 24, 2003
EU Standardization
Many Europeans lament the standardization of products and rules that has come about through EU regulation. They see the end it as the end to tradition and to the quirkiness and individuality of the different cultures that exist. While I may agree that this may be the case most of the time, when it comes to European toilets, standardization will be a very positive thing. Traveling around Europe I have always been amazed at the different designs they have over there for toilets. While at times it was fun to run into the bathroom in a new country to see how the design differed, the actual practicality of some leaves much to be desired. In fact, some of their toilet designs have to go. What some have termed the German toilet [Link via Volume 22] has to be the worst design ever (Note: I cracked up laughing when I read the article because it is SO true). I am not sure if German is the right name for them because there was one in an apartment I rented in Italy, and I have had the misfortune to have them in my hotel room throughout Europe. Whatever they are called, the things are awful (read the link to find out why) and the EU would do well to make them illegal.
Forgive the crudeness of this post, but having seen that I am not alone in my observations, I had to share my thoughts.
Many Europeans lament the standardization of products and rules that has come about through EU regulation. They see the end it as the end to tradition and to the quirkiness and individuality of the different cultures that exist. While I may agree that this may be the case most of the time, when it comes to European toilets, standardization will be a very positive thing. Traveling around Europe I have always been amazed at the different designs they have over there for toilets. While at times it was fun to run into the bathroom in a new country to see how the design differed, the actual practicality of some leaves much to be desired. In fact, some of their toilet designs have to go. What some have termed the German toilet [Link via Volume 22] has to be the worst design ever (Note: I cracked up laughing when I read the article because it is SO true). I am not sure if German is the right name for them because there was one in an apartment I rented in Italy, and I have had the misfortune to have them in my hotel room throughout Europe. Whatever they are called, the things are awful (read the link to find out why) and the EU would do well to make them illegal.
Forgive the crudeness of this post, but having seen that I am not alone in my observations, I had to share my thoughts.
Beautiful Sunday
Woke up to one of the most beautiful mornings in a long time. The air was cool and crisp, the sky was a deep blue, the breeze was refreshing. Ahhh....
I know there are some people who don't like mornings, but this one was glorious. Perfect to cozy up with a warm cup of coffee and the Sunday paper.
Our dog has been quite clear that he thinks that it would be a good idea for us to take advantage of the day and go for a long, peaceful walk. He has a way of getting his head under the newspaper, shoving it aside, and poking your body. It's almost as if he is saying, "Look at me, I am cute. Why are you wasting your time reading that drivel?"
Maybe I will go sailing....hmmmmm...tempting...
Dog says: No. You need to take me out.
I say: ok, let me get my shoes.
Woke up to one of the most beautiful mornings in a long time. The air was cool and crisp, the sky was a deep blue, the breeze was refreshing. Ahhh....
I know there are some people who don't like mornings, but this one was glorious. Perfect to cozy up with a warm cup of coffee and the Sunday paper.
Our dog has been quite clear that he thinks that it would be a good idea for us to take advantage of the day and go for a long, peaceful walk. He has a way of getting his head under the newspaper, shoving it aside, and poking your body. It's almost as if he is saying, "Look at me, I am cute. Why are you wasting your time reading that drivel?"
Maybe I will go sailing....hmmmmm...tempting...
Dog says: No. You need to take me out.
I say: ok, let me get my shoes.
Saturday, August 23, 2003
Carwash Sweatshop
As I was flipping through some channels last night, I caught an interesting segement on one of those tv magazines (I think it was dateline). It was about the labor abuses by most car washing businesses. They often hire illegal aliens, working them excessively, and paying them next to nothing (or sometimes nothing at all - they get whatever tips they receive). So in other words, they are just like sweatshops.
Something to think about the next time you take your car to be washed. Maybe leave a bigger tip or maybe just wash the car yourself.
As I was flipping through some channels last night, I caught an interesting segement on one of those tv magazines (I think it was dateline). It was about the labor abuses by most car washing businesses. They often hire illegal aliens, working them excessively, and paying them next to nothing (or sometimes nothing at all - they get whatever tips they receive). So in other words, they are just like sweatshops.
Something to think about the next time you take your car to be washed. Maybe leave a bigger tip or maybe just wash the car yourself.
Friday, August 22, 2003
COST OF WAR
While I thought it was important to remind people and myself how much this war in Iraq is costing us, especially at a time when we are cutting services, programs, and taxes for wealthy people, the counter was creating too many problems for people with slow connections. As a result, I have taken it off.
If you miss it or if you are curious to see how much it has cost, you can go to COST OF WAR. I doubt people will actually do it, but I wanted to put that option up.
While I thought it was important to remind people and myself how much this war in Iraq is costing us, especially at a time when we are cutting services, programs, and taxes for wealthy people, the counter was creating too many problems for people with slow connections. As a result, I have taken it off.
If you miss it or if you are curious to see how much it has cost, you can go to COST OF WAR. I doubt people will actually do it, but I wanted to put that option up.
Friday Night...
Ok, it's Friday night and I seem to be the only living creature on my block. The wife, the neighbors, the friends, they are all out of town. There is our dog, but he is passed out on the floor so I am not sure if he counts as a living creature.
Tangent: He (our dog) got to go to this cool place outside of Providence. Officially it is called Chase Farm, but he knows it only as THEFARM (one word). It is a former farm that has been turned into a park. It has a number of trails that wind through the hilly fields of tall grass. Nestled in the middle is a small pond in which he loves to swim. Although he is not supposed to be off the leash, he does get unhitched for some time in the water. While we are meandering through the fields he stays on the extended leash. So we follow the rules, but he still gets to run. All this excitement, along with the hot and humid weather that has returned with a vengance, took its toll and now he is off in doggie-dreamy land.
Back to the issue at hand. Here I am in my quiet solitude in the middle of Providence. It seems like I am the only one around. It is strange - really quiet.
I don't mind being on my own. In some ways I like the tranquility. There are definitely many things I could do that could keep me busy, but those can wait. I am going to enjoy this time to myself.
Ok, it's Friday night and I seem to be the only living creature on my block. The wife, the neighbors, the friends, they are all out of town. There is our dog, but he is passed out on the floor so I am not sure if he counts as a living creature.
Tangent: He (our dog) got to go to this cool place outside of Providence. Officially it is called Chase Farm, but he knows it only as THEFARM (one word). It is a former farm that has been turned into a park. It has a number of trails that wind through the hilly fields of tall grass. Nestled in the middle is a small pond in which he loves to swim. Although he is not supposed to be off the leash, he does get unhitched for some time in the water. While we are meandering through the fields he stays on the extended leash. So we follow the rules, but he still gets to run. All this excitement, along with the hot and humid weather that has returned with a vengance, took its toll and now he is off in doggie-dreamy land.
Back to the issue at hand. Here I am in my quiet solitude in the middle of Providence. It seems like I am the only one around. It is strange - really quiet.
I don't mind being on my own. In some ways I like the tranquility. There are definitely many things I could do that could keep me busy, but those can wait. I am going to enjoy this time to myself.
100 Things About Me (Episode 7: # 51-64):
51. I love listening to 80s music, even the songs I hated back then.
52. When I was in high school I wanted to be an oceanographer.
53. When I was five I wanted to be an airline pilot.
54. I still would like to learn how to fly.
55. I have driven cross-country five times, once by myself.
56. Comedies are my favorite movie genre, although I do enjoy a good drama as well. I don’t like horror films. Suspenseful films keep me up at night, but I will watch them.
57. I have never really forgiven my father for walking out on our family. Or cheating on us for that matter. I probably won’t be able to until he shows some sign of remorse.
58. I never wore braces.
59. Electrical storms fascinate me. I can watch them for hours.
60. I used to give blood. Now they won't take it because I lived in Europe too long and they are afraid of Mad Cow disease.
61. I recently took a sailing course and I loved it.
62. I lived in Mexico until I was fifteen.
63. I can be incredibly stubborn.
64. Usually I am easy going.
51. I love listening to 80s music, even the songs I hated back then.
52. When I was in high school I wanted to be an oceanographer.
53. When I was five I wanted to be an airline pilot.
54. I still would like to learn how to fly.
55. I have driven cross-country five times, once by myself.
56. Comedies are my favorite movie genre, although I do enjoy a good drama as well. I don’t like horror films. Suspenseful films keep me up at night, but I will watch them.
57. I have never really forgiven my father for walking out on our family. Or cheating on us for that matter. I probably won’t be able to until he shows some sign of remorse.
58. I never wore braces.
59. Electrical storms fascinate me. I can watch them for hours.
60. I used to give blood. Now they won't take it because I lived in Europe too long and they are afraid of Mad Cow disease.
61. I recently took a sailing course and I loved it.
62. I lived in Mexico until I was fifteen.
63. I can be incredibly stubborn.
64. Usually I am easy going.
So where do you want to live?
Mala recently brought up the issue of vacation time discrepancies between Europe and the US. On a related note, USB, a Swiss company, recently released a report entitled “Prices and Earnings: A comparison of purchasing power around the globe.” Definitely worth a look (it is a PDF file).
I can spend hours perusing the data, such as how much are rents in different cities, what are the average salaries, how much does the upkeep of a car cost, etc.
Here are some tips:
If you like your vacation time, you should head to Frankfurt, Barcelona, Athens, Rio de Janeiro or Lima, where there are on average 30 days of paid vacation per year. However, in Rio and Lima you have many more working hours per year than in the European cities. In fact, Paris has 26 days of vacation, but the lowest amount of working hours per year (1,561). Copenhagen was right behind with 28 days of vacation and only 1,658 work hours per year. Lima compares with 2,152 hours per year. Vacation lovers need to stay away from Hong Kong where there are only 8 days of vacation, yet the highest number of work hours (2,398).
Republicans should stay away from Copenhagen, Brussels, and Frankfurt where they have the highest taxes and social security contributions (respectively 44%, 38%, and 36%). Instead they should head to Caracas or Bangkok (9% and 4%). Or better yet, Dubai where there are no taxes.
The most expensive city? Oslo, followed by Hong Kong (no wonder they have to work so much), Tokyo, New York, and Zurich.
Cheapest? Karachi, Kiev, Buenos Aires, and Mumbai (formerly Bombay). Although I am not sure how many people would want to live in Karachi right now.
Mala recently brought up the issue of vacation time discrepancies between Europe and the US. On a related note, USB, a Swiss company, recently released a report entitled “Prices and Earnings: A comparison of purchasing power around the globe.” Definitely worth a look (it is a PDF file).
I can spend hours perusing the data, such as how much are rents in different cities, what are the average salaries, how much does the upkeep of a car cost, etc.
Here are some tips:
If you like your vacation time, you should head to Frankfurt, Barcelona, Athens, Rio de Janeiro or Lima, where there are on average 30 days of paid vacation per year. However, in Rio and Lima you have many more working hours per year than in the European cities. In fact, Paris has 26 days of vacation, but the lowest amount of working hours per year (1,561). Copenhagen was right behind with 28 days of vacation and only 1,658 work hours per year. Lima compares with 2,152 hours per year. Vacation lovers need to stay away from Hong Kong where there are only 8 days of vacation, yet the highest number of work hours (2,398).
Republicans should stay away from Copenhagen, Brussels, and Frankfurt where they have the highest taxes and social security contributions (respectively 44%, 38%, and 36%). Instead they should head to Caracas or Bangkok (9% and 4%). Or better yet, Dubai where there are no taxes.
The most expensive city? Oslo, followed by Hong Kong (no wonder they have to work so much), Tokyo, New York, and Zurich.
Cheapest? Karachi, Kiev, Buenos Aires, and Mumbai (formerly Bombay). Although I am not sure how many people would want to live in Karachi right now.
Getting Somthing to Drink in England...
Mala's post on pronunciation made me think of a funny incident:
Last year my wife and I flew to England. We were living in Italy at the time so we were on a European super-discount bargain airline. The crew was English. When they came by offering beverages, my wife asked for water. The flight attendant looked puzzled and then inquired, "Wine?" My wife glanced over at me with a slightly panicked look. "Water," I explained. The flight attendant then smiled and looked relieved, "Of course, water!" And he proceded to pour my wife a glass of water.
What was the problem? It was not that my wife has a speech impediment or did not speak loudly or clearly. The issue was that she was American and pronounced water in a typical American way: with an open a and soft t. Having attended a British school in my youth, I was familiar with the inability for some Brits to understand the Yankee pronunciation and came to the rescue with the *proper* way to say it: wuotter. Of course, had either of us used an *improper* pronounciation, such as a cockney accent (wuo'ah), the flight attendant would have still understood. For it may be improper, but it is still recognizable.
So what is the purpose of speaking? To communicate? To establish one's position in society? To establish one's right to belong to a particular community? And why do certain ways of speaking drive us crazy?
Throughout our trip my wife had a hard time communicating. To her credit, in one instance our waiter was from South Africa and he had a very thick accent. However, I can empathize with her. After my first day of school at the British school, I came home feeling a little lost. When my mother asked me how the day went, all I could say was, "I can't understand a word they are saying!"
Mala's post on pronunciation made me think of a funny incident:
Last year my wife and I flew to England. We were living in Italy at the time so we were on a European super-discount bargain airline. The crew was English. When they came by offering beverages, my wife asked for water. The flight attendant looked puzzled and then inquired, "Wine?" My wife glanced over at me with a slightly panicked look. "Water," I explained. The flight attendant then smiled and looked relieved, "Of course, water!" And he proceded to pour my wife a glass of water.
What was the problem? It was not that my wife has a speech impediment or did not speak loudly or clearly. The issue was that she was American and pronounced water in a typical American way: with an open a and soft t. Having attended a British school in my youth, I was familiar with the inability for some Brits to understand the Yankee pronunciation and came to the rescue with the *proper* way to say it: wuotter. Of course, had either of us used an *improper* pronounciation, such as a cockney accent (wuo'ah), the flight attendant would have still understood. For it may be improper, but it is still recognizable.
So what is the purpose of speaking? To communicate? To establish one's position in society? To establish one's right to belong to a particular community? And why do certain ways of speaking drive us crazy?
Throughout our trip my wife had a hard time communicating. To her credit, in one instance our waiter was from South Africa and he had a very thick accent. However, I can empathize with her. After my first day of school at the British school, I came home feeling a little lost. When my mother asked me how the day went, all I could say was, "I can't understand a word they are saying!"
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Worms, viruses, and other nasty stuff...
The recent outbreak of internet worms and viruses is alarming. This morning my mailbox had over thirty messages with suspicious attachments. I deleted them all. The messages keep coming, though. It becomes a pain because they are all large, so they end up filling my mailbox. Just like the power outage, I think these worms expose the vulnerability of the internet. Are we becoming too reliant on the information superhighway?
Reminder to self (and anyone else reading): Backup everything that is important.
The recent outbreak of internet worms and viruses is alarming. This morning my mailbox had over thirty messages with suspicious attachments. I deleted them all. The messages keep coming, though. It becomes a pain because they are all large, so they end up filling my mailbox. Just like the power outage, I think these worms expose the vulnerability of the internet. Are we becoming too reliant on the information superhighway?
Reminder to self (and anyone else reading): Backup everything that is important.
Tuesday, August 19, 2003
100 Things About Me (Episode 6: # 32-50):
32. I used to collect sand from different beaches (and other sandy spots too). I should start that collection up again.
33. I have been to 26 countries on three continents.
34. I love to cook.
35. I love to eat more than I love to cook.
36. Cold, gray, rainy days depress me.
37. I have no tattoos. Never wanted one.
38. No body piercings either. Never wanted them either.
39. I love watching soccer, especially the World Cup. I used to love playing as well, but I am too out of shape now.
40. Not having found organized religion inspiring; I have constructed my own theology and spirituality.
41. I do occasionally attend the Unitarian-Universalist Church, and I probably would call myself one.
42. I love to cuddle, snuggle, and just be close to my wife.
43. Until I was 13, the only music I listened to was classical and jazz.
44. I want to live by the ocean or by some mountains. Best-case scenario: by some mountains that are by the ocean.
45. Despite the Latin rhythm that burns inside of me I can’t dance for the life of me.
46. Crossing the International Date Line really screws me up. Worse jet lag I ever had was coming back from Hong Kong.
47. I used to be a Republican. I am not one any more and I haven’t been one for a while.
48. I have never been a Democrat, but I usually vote for them.
49. I have been to Carnival in Venice. I am glad I went, but I never want to go again.
50. If I never make it to Mardi Gras in New Orleans before I die, I won’t be disappointed. I don't particularly like drunken pandamonium and debauchery.
32. I used to collect sand from different beaches (and other sandy spots too). I should start that collection up again.
33. I have been to 26 countries on three continents.
34. I love to cook.
35. I love to eat more than I love to cook.
36. Cold, gray, rainy days depress me.
37. I have no tattoos. Never wanted one.
38. No body piercings either. Never wanted them either.
39. I love watching soccer, especially the World Cup. I used to love playing as well, but I am too out of shape now.
40. Not having found organized religion inspiring; I have constructed my own theology and spirituality.
41. I do occasionally attend the Unitarian-Universalist Church, and I probably would call myself one.
42. I love to cuddle, snuggle, and just be close to my wife.
43. Until I was 13, the only music I listened to was classical and jazz.
44. I want to live by the ocean or by some mountains. Best-case scenario: by some mountains that are by the ocean.
45. Despite the Latin rhythm that burns inside of me I can’t dance for the life of me.
46. Crossing the International Date Line really screws me up. Worse jet lag I ever had was coming back from Hong Kong.
47. I used to be a Republican. I am not one any more and I haven’t been one for a while.
48. I have never been a Democrat, but I usually vote for them.
49. I have been to Carnival in Venice. I am glad I went, but I never want to go again.
50. If I never make it to Mardi Gras in New Orleans before I die, I won’t be disappointed. I don't particularly like drunken pandamonium and debauchery.
Icelandic Whaling Update
Iceland killed its first whale (story). Again, I find this terribly sad.
If you ever get the chance, you should go whale watching. It is a very humbling experience.
Iceland killed its first whale (story). Again, I find this terribly sad.
If you ever get the chance, you should go whale watching. It is a very humbling experience.
Monday, August 18, 2003
ICELAND
Commenting on #10 on the 100 things about me list, Mala mentioned that she always has wanted to go to Iceland.
Iceland was really cool (actually it was pretty cold when I was there in the beginning of May). It was really expensive too. It did not help that I stopped on my way back from a month in Italy where I had spent way too much.
I stayed in a hostel run by the Salvation Army (it was quite nice). The only cheap thing was coffee, so I sat in a cafe, getting extremely wired, writing postcards to all my friends.
The lanscape there is amazing, it almost feels other-worldly. There are numerous volcanoes that dot the landscape and the countryside is made up of lava flows. The ocean is a deep indigo that make the vistas all the more dramatic. I would have loved to have toured the country more, seeing the nature, but my budget did not allow me (see above). I would like to go back sometime.
The people in Reykjavik were very friendly and helpful. You notice the pride they take in their country and their resourcefulness. It is difficult living in such an isolated place and in such harsh conditions.
I was expecting to be able to understand some of the language because I speak a little Swedish (and I can understand Danish and Norwegian because the languages are quite similar). Icelandic, however, must have branched off much earlier and thus is quite different. Reading it I can see the similarities, but I really could not understand it when I was there. Everyone spoke English, though, so it was not a problem.
On a negative note, I read recently that Iceland just sent out a fleet of whaling ships to hunt Minke whales. This saddens me. Whales are such magnificent creatures and are on the verge of extinction that it puzzles me why they must be hunted.
I do recommend visiting Iceland - it is unlike any other place I have been.
+++++++++++
No 100 things about me today....check in tomorrow.
Commenting on #10 on the 100 things about me list, Mala mentioned that she always has wanted to go to Iceland.
Iceland was really cool (actually it was pretty cold when I was there in the beginning of May). It was really expensive too. It did not help that I stopped on my way back from a month in Italy where I had spent way too much.
I stayed in a hostel run by the Salvation Army (it was quite nice). The only cheap thing was coffee, so I sat in a cafe, getting extremely wired, writing postcards to all my friends.
The lanscape there is amazing, it almost feels other-worldly. There are numerous volcanoes that dot the landscape and the countryside is made up of lava flows. The ocean is a deep indigo that make the vistas all the more dramatic. I would have loved to have toured the country more, seeing the nature, but my budget did not allow me (see above). I would like to go back sometime.
The people in Reykjavik were very friendly and helpful. You notice the pride they take in their country and their resourcefulness. It is difficult living in such an isolated place and in such harsh conditions.
I was expecting to be able to understand some of the language because I speak a little Swedish (and I can understand Danish and Norwegian because the languages are quite similar). Icelandic, however, must have branched off much earlier and thus is quite different. Reading it I can see the similarities, but I really could not understand it when I was there. Everyone spoke English, though, so it was not a problem.
On a negative note, I read recently that Iceland just sent out a fleet of whaling ships to hunt Minke whales. This saddens me. Whales are such magnificent creatures and are on the verge of extinction that it puzzles me why they must be hunted.
I do recommend visiting Iceland - it is unlike any other place I have been.
+++++++++++
No 100 things about me today....check in tomorrow.
Sunday, August 17, 2003
Illegal Alien Weekend Update
- The illegal Guatemalan man who is to be deported after testifying in a murder trial has gotten a little break. A Federal District Court judge in Boston issued a stay of deportation on Friday until a court hearing on August 26. Immigrant groups and the Guatemalan Consulate have been making a lot of noise, so perhaps that helped.
- A man who lives in Kingston, Rhode Island who immigrated to the US illegally 20 years ago from Syria has received a deportation notice. He was to leave the country by Friday, but he said he would not go willfully. The deportation notice came even though he owns a successful pizzeria, has a family here who are US citizens, and is an active member of the Southern Rhode Island community. He initially fled Syria because he opposed the government there and it is likely that he will be arrested (or worse) if he returns to his home country. He is going to fight the deportation order in the courts.
Why are we harassing people who are helping our communities?
+++++++++++++
Rhode Island Tip of the Day:
If you are pulled over by the police in Rhode Island at night, the law states that you must turn your interior lights on. The police will seldom ticket you for failing to follow this law, but they will if they are cranky or if you argue (it is at their discretion) with them.
Tip brought to you by the show “Caught in Providence” shown on ABC 6, weekdays at 10AM and Saturdays at 7:30PM (also on public access in the Providence area at random times).
=============
100 Things About Me (Episode 5: #s 16-31):
16. I am 6’5”.
17. However, I am not very good at basketball.
18. But I am a decent volleyball player.
19. My weight fluctuates between 210 to 220 pounds.
20. Keith Jarrett is my favorite pianist.
21. Growing up my favorite super hero was the Incredible Hulk.
22. I prefer the West Coast to the East Coast for many reasons, but number one is that nothing beats a sunset on the beach.
23. I hate the way Microsoft Word tries to format everything you type.
24. I despise the little MS Word paperclip helper.
25. I hate eating soup or cereal with a teaspoon.
26. I speak seven languages, three of them fluently (Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Swedish, and English).
27. I am allergic (technically it is an intolerance) to onions.
28. Having attended a British school growing up, I still put a “u” in color, favor, and neighbor. I still find myself using quite instead of really and perhaps instead of maybe.
29. I almost knocked Newt Gingrich down a flight of stairs in the US Capitol Building.
30. I sing, whistle, and hum in the shower. I am very bad.
31. Even though I don’t get them very often, I love getting flowers.
- The illegal Guatemalan man who is to be deported after testifying in a murder trial has gotten a little break. A Federal District Court judge in Boston issued a stay of deportation on Friday until a court hearing on August 26. Immigrant groups and the Guatemalan Consulate have been making a lot of noise, so perhaps that helped.
- A man who lives in Kingston, Rhode Island who immigrated to the US illegally 20 years ago from Syria has received a deportation notice. He was to leave the country by Friday, but he said he would not go willfully. The deportation notice came even though he owns a successful pizzeria, has a family here who are US citizens, and is an active member of the Southern Rhode Island community. He initially fled Syria because he opposed the government there and it is likely that he will be arrested (or worse) if he returns to his home country. He is going to fight the deportation order in the courts.
Why are we harassing people who are helping our communities?
+++++++++++++
Rhode Island Tip of the Day:
If you are pulled over by the police in Rhode Island at night, the law states that you must turn your interior lights on. The police will seldom ticket you for failing to follow this law, but they will if they are cranky or if you argue (it is at their discretion) with them.
Tip brought to you by the show “Caught in Providence” shown on ABC 6, weekdays at 10AM and Saturdays at 7:30PM (also on public access in the Providence area at random times).
=============
100 Things About Me (Episode 5: #s 16-31):
16. I am 6’5”.
17. However, I am not very good at basketball.
18. But I am a decent volleyball player.
19. My weight fluctuates between 210 to 220 pounds.
20. Keith Jarrett is my favorite pianist.
21. Growing up my favorite super hero was the Incredible Hulk.
22. I prefer the West Coast to the East Coast for many reasons, but number one is that nothing beats a sunset on the beach.
23. I hate the way Microsoft Word tries to format everything you type.
24. I despise the little MS Word paperclip helper.
25. I hate eating soup or cereal with a teaspoon.
26. I speak seven languages, three of them fluently (Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Swedish, and English).
27. I am allergic (technically it is an intolerance) to onions.
28. Having attended a British school growing up, I still put a “u” in color, favor, and neighbor. I still find myself using quite instead of really and perhaps instead of maybe.
29. I almost knocked Newt Gingrich down a flight of stairs in the US Capitol Building.
30. I sing, whistle, and hum in the shower. I am very bad.
31. Even though I don’t get them very often, I love getting flowers.
Friday, August 15, 2003
Blackout
Even before the Great Blackout of the Northeast, I have always thought how dependent we are on electricity. Without it our lives more or less stop, as many people have discovered over the past 24 hours. I appreciate the conveniences electricity brings - especially over the past couple of weeks when a/c has been my best friend in the battle against the heat and humidity. But is it really a good thing to be dependent on one energy source?
I think it illustrates our vulnerability.
On the other hand, I think the blackout also shows our resourcefulness and camaraderie.
I am amazed that violence and looting have not descended upon the darkened areas. I have seen examples of people helping each other, which makes me think that we live in a pretty decent society. I do think that the good will would begin to deteriorate should these conditions persist.
To put things in perspective, we (not me, actually, power did not go out in Rhode Island) have had to endure a day or so without electricity. Some people in Iraq have had to go months. I don't really want to go into the politics of the matter, but it is just a comparison to think about.
For once last night, I was consciously thankful that when I flipped the switch, something actually happened.
+++++++++++++++++
100 Things About Me (Episode 4: #s 8-15):
8. I still love getting a handwritten letter, even if they are almost non-existent nowadays.
9. I rarely write letters anymore- damned technology.
10. The farthest North I have been is Reykjavik, Iceland.
11. The farthest South I have been has been somewhere on Java, Indonesia.
12. My inability to properly use commas drives my wife crazy.
13. I envy my sister’s adventurousness: she has biked from San Francisco to LA, studied in Africa, rock climbs, and gone skydiving.
14. My left foot is half a size bigger than my right foot.
15. People who drive and talk on their cellular phones drive me crazy – pull over.
Even before the Great Blackout of the Northeast, I have always thought how dependent we are on electricity. Without it our lives more or less stop, as many people have discovered over the past 24 hours. I appreciate the conveniences electricity brings - especially over the past couple of weeks when a/c has been my best friend in the battle against the heat and humidity. But is it really a good thing to be dependent on one energy source?
I think it illustrates our vulnerability.
On the other hand, I think the blackout also shows our resourcefulness and camaraderie.
I am amazed that violence and looting have not descended upon the darkened areas. I have seen examples of people helping each other, which makes me think that we live in a pretty decent society. I do think that the good will would begin to deteriorate should these conditions persist.
To put things in perspective, we (not me, actually, power did not go out in Rhode Island) have had to endure a day or so without electricity. Some people in Iraq have had to go months. I don't really want to go into the politics of the matter, but it is just a comparison to think about.
For once last night, I was consciously thankful that when I flipped the switch, something actually happened.
+++++++++++++++++
100 Things About Me (Episode 4: #s 8-15):
8. I still love getting a handwritten letter, even if they are almost non-existent nowadays.
9. I rarely write letters anymore- damned technology.
10. The farthest North I have been is Reykjavik, Iceland.
11. The farthest South I have been has been somewhere on Java, Indonesia.
12. My inability to properly use commas drives my wife crazy.
13. I envy my sister’s adventurousness: she has biked from San Francisco to LA, studied in Africa, rock climbs, and gone skydiving.
14. My left foot is half a size bigger than my right foot.
15. People who drive and talk on their cellular phones drive me crazy – pull over.
Thursday, August 14, 2003
In honor of the sluggish economy I present -
Things I bought today:
1. Pizza lunch for my wife and myself (at Bertucci's).
2. A salad spiner (nifty invention, but way overpriced - I do like the dry salad, though).
3. Moisturizer for my wife (she also got the free gift).
4. Twine (got to tie up our slouching tomato plant).
5. An extension cord (we are currently using all of the ones we own).
6. Sterile gauze (someone has a wound).
7. Harpers Bazaar (my wife reads it).
8. Caffienated candy (we are going to give it a try).
9. Bottled water (it is still hot).
So there you have it. Not an exciting day as far as purchases go. Well, I guess the free gift was nice for my wife.
100 Things About Me (Episode 3: #s 4, 5, 6, and 7):
4. I love dogs, all dogs (ok, really mean ones I may not like, but it is probably not their fault that they are mean).
5. I probably daydream too much.
6. Cats are ok.
7. My first swimming lesson was when I was 11 months old.
*************
I am off to watch "The Amazing Race". It is my guilty pleasure (my wife likes it too).
Things I bought today:
1. Pizza lunch for my wife and myself (at Bertucci's).
2. A salad spiner (nifty invention, but way overpriced - I do like the dry salad, though).
3. Moisturizer for my wife (she also got the free gift).
4. Twine (got to tie up our slouching tomato plant).
5. An extension cord (we are currently using all of the ones we own).
6. Sterile gauze (someone has a wound).
7. Harpers Bazaar (my wife reads it).
8. Caffienated candy (we are going to give it a try).
9. Bottled water (it is still hot).
So there you have it. Not an exciting day as far as purchases go. Well, I guess the free gift was nice for my wife.
100 Things About Me (Episode 3: #s 4, 5, 6, and 7):
4. I love dogs, all dogs (ok, really mean ones I may not like, but it is probably not their fault that they are mean).
5. I probably daydream too much.
6. Cats are ok.
7. My first swimming lesson was when I was 11 months old.
*************
I am off to watch "The Amazing Race". It is my guilty pleasure (my wife likes it too).
Wednesday, August 13, 2003
100 Things About Me (Episode 2: #2 and #3):
2. I was the longest baby ever born at that hospital (I am sure that record has been broken by now though).
3. My wife is my best friend.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Musings:
You'll know that we have achieved true gender equality when there is a contraceptive pill for men.
Having a dog is like having an eternal two year old (at least they don't have opposable thumbs).
Why is the hair on my head disappearing and reappearing everywhere else that I don't want it?
2. I was the longest baby ever born at that hospital (I am sure that record has been broken by now though).
3. My wife is my best friend.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Musings:
You'll know that we have achieved true gender equality when there is a contraceptive pill for men.
Having a dog is like having an eternal two year old (at least they don't have opposable thumbs).
Why is the hair on my head disappearing and reappearing everywhere else that I don't want it?
Tuesday, August 12, 2003
100 Things About Me
Both Sara and Mala have started their 100 things about me list. So bowing to peer pressure, here I go with mine. Mala went the full 100 (see # 74 about her), Sara only managed 7. I can do better...
Today you get #1.
1. I am a dual national.
Stay tuned for #2 - #100.
************
It is still way too humid for any normal human here....
************
May Liberia find peace now that Charles Taylor is gone.......
Speaking of which, it is dumbfounding that Charles Taylor was living in Central Falls, RI a few years ago. How does one go from living in a small, run-down, former industrial corner of Rhode Island to being a murderous warlord/tyrant/dictator of an African country? Note: he was deported for being here illegally. Maybe if we had let him stay, things may have turned out differently....
....although President Blah (yes, that is his name) does not seem to be too promising.
***********
Stop and think of the people in the Congo, suffering so much, yet forgotten by most.
***********
Stop and think of the people who also suffer elsewhere and no one thinks of.
***********
Both Sara and Mala have started their 100 things about me list. So bowing to peer pressure, here I go with mine. Mala went the full 100 (see # 74 about her), Sara only managed 7. I can do better...
Today you get #1.
1. I am a dual national.
Stay tuned for #2 - #100.
************
It is still way too humid for any normal human here....
************
May Liberia find peace now that Charles Taylor is gone.......
Speaking of which, it is dumbfounding that Charles Taylor was living in Central Falls, RI a few years ago. How does one go from living in a small, run-down, former industrial corner of Rhode Island to being a murderous warlord/tyrant/dictator of an African country? Note: he was deported for being here illegally. Maybe if we had let him stay, things may have turned out differently....
....although President Blah (yes, that is his name) does not seem to be too promising.
***********
Stop and think of the people in the Congo, suffering so much, yet forgotten by most.
***********
Stop and think of the people who also suffer elsewhere and no one thinks of.
***********
Monday, August 11, 2003
What are they thinking?
A Guatemalan man was arrested by the new incarntation of INS (I have forgotten the name) here in Southern New England after volunteering to testify in a murder trial, where the accused was eventually convicted. Now he is going to be deported from the country because he was here illegally.
There has been no leniency in the matter. He is here illegally and he has to go. They won't allow him to marry his fiancee (an American citizen) before he is deported either.
So here is a man who helped our community, who is going to be a future part of our community (he will eventually marry his fiancee and return - after much red tape, no doubt), and he is being expelled.
What is the message that our law enforcement is sending out to potential informants, witnesses, etc. who happen to be here illegally? Don't help us because then we will come after you. This is especially serious if the threat of terrorism is as great as they make it out to be. People will not risk their necks to inform of potential threats.
How many criminals in this country are given leniency because they testify in some other crime? Why can't this be extended to illegal immigrants?
This ties into the larger issue of immigration and scape-goating of social ills on immigrants...but I will refrain from discussing that now (although I think my position is rather obvious).
=====================
Trivial Questions:
My wife and I live in an apartment with only one bathroom.
Why is it that when either of us has to use it, the other one seems to be in it?
Why do drivers in Rhode Island never stop at a stop sign, but stop at an intersection with no stop sign?
==============
My wife just served me some sherbert (better for you than ice cream, but still produces happiness)....
A Guatemalan man was arrested by the new incarntation of INS (I have forgotten the name) here in Southern New England after volunteering to testify in a murder trial, where the accused was eventually convicted. Now he is going to be deported from the country because he was here illegally.
There has been no leniency in the matter. He is here illegally and he has to go. They won't allow him to marry his fiancee (an American citizen) before he is deported either.
So here is a man who helped our community, who is going to be a future part of our community (he will eventually marry his fiancee and return - after much red tape, no doubt), and he is being expelled.
What is the message that our law enforcement is sending out to potential informants, witnesses, etc. who happen to be here illegally? Don't help us because then we will come after you. This is especially serious if the threat of terrorism is as great as they make it out to be. People will not risk their necks to inform of potential threats.
How many criminals in this country are given leniency because they testify in some other crime? Why can't this be extended to illegal immigrants?
This ties into the larger issue of immigration and scape-goating of social ills on immigrants...but I will refrain from discussing that now (although I think my position is rather obvious).
=====================
Trivial Questions:
My wife and I live in an apartment with only one bathroom.
Why is it that when either of us has to use it, the other one seems to be in it?
Why do drivers in Rhode Island never stop at a stop sign, but stop at an intersection with no stop sign?
==============
My wife just served me some sherbert (better for you than ice cream, but still produces happiness)....
Sunday, August 10, 2003
MALA wrote in her blog about watching the Sunday political shows. I was just watching Meet the Press where they were discussing the recall election in California. I had to turn it off - it is just so depressing....
As a former Californian I just have to ask, what are they thinking over there?
Is it me, or does it seem that the Republicans are constantly engaging in the sabotage of elected Democrats? I guess they do it because they can. And no one seems to mind. In fact, people seem to like the process. Perhaps it is entertaining to see politicians squirm. As if reality television were not enough....
Yet I have to ask, have we become a vendetta society where we need to get back at politicians just because they raise the tax we pay on our cars? Is our society really that petty?
Is there anyone more full of it or more narcissistic than Congressman Issa?
Can anyone who supports good ol' Arnold (the big steriod guy, not the little one from Diff'rent Strokes) tell me one thing he has proposed, other than getting rid of Gov. Davis, to fix the problems California faces?
Does anyone else believe that someone whose father was a Nazi should stay away from politics?
I think the events in California will be a perfect illustration of the idiom: You reap what you sow. The mess is just beginning. I have been longing to return to California, but for once I am happy I am not there and my hopes for a return will be put on hiatus.
*****************
Prozac seems to be working ...... despite the Sunday shows and the California mess.
*******************
Despite the political messes surrounding us, we live in a great country - one where you can have Guatemalan, Mexican, Korean, Ethiopian, Thai, and Italian food all in one week.
******************
Speaking of Ethiopian food, there is something about eating with your hands that I find appealing. And I don't mean shoving a sandwich or a burger in your mouth, rather breaking of small pieces of *bread* and dipping it in your dish. Somehow the aromas and flavors come together in a way that they never do with an eating utensil. I also like the faint smell of spices that remain in your fingers hours afterward even if you have washed your hands.
******************
I feel like I need scuba gear to breathe in this humidity.
******************
Need to walk the dog.....
As a former Californian I just have to ask, what are they thinking over there?
Is it me, or does it seem that the Republicans are constantly engaging in the sabotage of elected Democrats? I guess they do it because they can. And no one seems to mind. In fact, people seem to like the process. Perhaps it is entertaining to see politicians squirm. As if reality television were not enough....
Yet I have to ask, have we become a vendetta society where we need to get back at politicians just because they raise the tax we pay on our cars? Is our society really that petty?
Is there anyone more full of it or more narcissistic than Congressman Issa?
Can anyone who supports good ol' Arnold (the big steriod guy, not the little one from Diff'rent Strokes) tell me one thing he has proposed, other than getting rid of Gov. Davis, to fix the problems California faces?
Does anyone else believe that someone whose father was a Nazi should stay away from politics?
I think the events in California will be a perfect illustration of the idiom: You reap what you sow. The mess is just beginning. I have been longing to return to California, but for once I am happy I am not there and my hopes for a return will be put on hiatus.
*****************
Prozac seems to be working ...... despite the Sunday shows and the California mess.
*******************
Despite the political messes surrounding us, we live in a great country - one where you can have Guatemalan, Mexican, Korean, Ethiopian, Thai, and Italian food all in one week.
******************
Speaking of Ethiopian food, there is something about eating with your hands that I find appealing. And I don't mean shoving a sandwich or a burger in your mouth, rather breaking of small pieces of *bread* and dipping it in your dish. Somehow the aromas and flavors come together in a way that they never do with an eating utensil. I also like the faint smell of spices that remain in your fingers hours afterward even if you have washed your hands.
******************
I feel like I need scuba gear to breathe in this humidity.
******************
Need to walk the dog.....
Wednesday, August 06, 2003
First, thank you to MALA and Sara for their messages. It is nice knowing that I am not alone in cyberspace.
The muggies continue - will it ever end? The weather around the world is really screwed up. Europe is insanely hot. I am so happy I am not over there this summer. I would have gone mad (not that I am totally sane now, but it could be worse).
Speaking of madness...Lexapro is a no go. The darned medication was not really working for me and it was making me extremely tired. The heat and humidity did not help, but I did notice that the fatigue was not letting me concentrate. This made my work, which involves long periods of writing, nearly impossible. So my doc switched me over to good ol' Prozac. I never taken this medication before, so we will see how it goes. It is a bit weird starting on a medication that has received so much attention and was considered almost a fad for a while. But if it helps me....I really do not care.
I am very tempted to go sailing today, but I am so far behind in my work, I really can't. The weather has been so bad lately, though, and there seems to be a small window of oportunity right now. No, no, no....I can't :(
Pet peeve of the day: Delivery trucks that stop in the middle of the road, even if there are places to park. I almost got hit by yet another delivery truck that was trying to get around the stopped one.
The muggies continue - will it ever end? The weather around the world is really screwed up. Europe is insanely hot. I am so happy I am not over there this summer. I would have gone mad (not that I am totally sane now, but it could be worse).
Speaking of madness...Lexapro is a no go. The darned medication was not really working for me and it was making me extremely tired. The heat and humidity did not help, but I did notice that the fatigue was not letting me concentrate. This made my work, which involves long periods of writing, nearly impossible. So my doc switched me over to good ol' Prozac. I never taken this medication before, so we will see how it goes. It is a bit weird starting on a medication that has received so much attention and was considered almost a fad for a while. But if it helps me....I really do not care.
I am very tempted to go sailing today, but I am so far behind in my work, I really can't. The weather has been so bad lately, though, and there seems to be a small window of oportunity right now. No, no, no....I can't :(
Pet peeve of the day: Delivery trucks that stop in the middle of the road, even if there are places to park. I almost got hit by yet another delivery truck that was trying to get around the stopped one.
Monday, August 04, 2003
The heat and humidity continue. It is so humid outside that anytime I exit an airconditioned place my glasses fog up. Having grown up in a very dry climate, I find this weather oppressive. Thankfully there is a/c. I read somewhere that a/c was one of the most influential inventions of the 20th century. It claimed that a/c has allowed the development of areas of the world that would otherwise be very difficult to inhabit. It also has allowed the movement and storage of foods.
I am thankful for the a/c in my home. I would not be able to sleep at night otherwise. I have lived in Italy several times and summers there were extremely difficult. Many nights I would sit in bed drenched in sweat wondering why I was there. It is not the romantic image most people hold of Italy.
I have not gone sailing recently. No wind and the threat of lightning has kept me ashore. I miss it.
I need to figure out what I am going to do when I grow up....
I am tired of being poor....so is my wife. Our dog doesn't seem to have an opinion. As long as he gets fed and walked, he is happy.
I am thankful for the a/c in my home. I would not be able to sleep at night otherwise. I have lived in Italy several times and summers there were extremely difficult. Many nights I would sit in bed drenched in sweat wondering why I was there. It is not the romantic image most people hold of Italy.
I have not gone sailing recently. No wind and the threat of lightning has kept me ashore. I miss it.
I need to figure out what I am going to do when I grow up....
I am tired of being poor....so is my wife. Our dog doesn't seem to have an opinion. As long as he gets fed and walked, he is happy.
Friday, August 01, 2003
The rain and the humidity are back. I am happy I went sailing yesterday because the week outlook on the weather page does not look promising.
I am trying to be productive, I really am, but I just cannot keep a stream of though going.
Tai chi tonight. I love it, yet I do not practice in between classes. It would behoove me to do it, but I still can help but feel silly going out to a park or field and moving around in slow motion. And there isn't enough room in our apartment to really do it well.
Our dog is sitting next to me expectantly - it is almost dinner time. Is there anything cuter than a dog that really wants something from you? I guess that is how the species survives....
I am trying to be productive, I really am, but I just cannot keep a stream of though going.
Tai chi tonight. I love it, yet I do not practice in between classes. It would behoove me to do it, but I still can help but feel silly going out to a park or field and moving around in slow motion. And there isn't enough room in our apartment to really do it well.
Our dog is sitting next to me expectantly - it is almost dinner time. Is there anything cuter than a dog that really wants something from you? I guess that is how the species survives....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)