Bailey's Buddy

Found For Friday

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

A husband and wife are on the 9th green when suddenly she collapses from a heart attack! "Help me dear," she groans to her husband.

The husband calls 911 on his cell phone, talks for a few minutes, picks up his putter, and lines up his putt. His wife raises her head off the green and stares at him.

"I'm dying here and you're putting?"

"Don't worry dear," says the husband calmly, "they found a doctor on the second hole and he's coming to help you.

"Well, how long will it take for him to get here?" she asks feebly.

"No time at all," says her husband. "Everybody's already agreed to let him play through."

The Red Cross have just knocked at our door and asked if we could help towards the floods in Pakistan. I said we would love to, but our

garden hose only reaches the driveway.

Being a modest man, when I checked into my hotel on a recent trip, I

said to the lady at the registration desk, "I hope the porn channel in
my room is disabled." To which she replied, "No, it's regular porn, you sick bastard."

A buddy of mine has just told me he's getting it on with his

girlfriend and her twin. I said "How can you tell them apart?" He
said "Her brother's got a mustache."

You can say lots of bad things about pedophiles but at least they

drive slowly past schools.

My girlfriend thinks that I'm a stalker. Well, she's not exactly my

girlfriend yet.

Words forWomen to Live By in 2012:

Aspire to be Barbie - the bitch has everything.

If the shoe fits - buy them in every color.

Take life with a pinch of salt.... A wedge of lime, and a shot of tequila.

A woman and a man are involved in a horrific collision, but amazingly both escape completely unhurt - though their cars are written off.

As they crawl out of the wreckage, the man sees the woman is blonde and strikingly beautiful. Then the woman turns to the man and gushes breathily: 'That's incredible - both our cars are demolished but we're fine. It must be a sign from God that we are meant to be together!'

Sensing a promise, the man stammers back, 'Oh yes, I agree with you completely!'

The woman goes on, 'And look, though my car was destroyed, this bottle of wine survived intact, too! It must be another sign. Let's drink to our love!'

'Well, OK!' says the man, going with the moment. She offers him the bottle, so he downs half of it and hands it back.

'Your turn,' he says.

'No, thanks,' says the woman, 'I think I'll just wait for the police.'

An elderly lady was invited to an old friends home for dinner one evening.

She was impressed by the way her lady friend preceded every request to her husband with endearing terms such as: Honey, My Love, Darling, Sweetheart, etc.

The couple had been married almost 70 years and, clearly, they were still very much in love.

While the husband was in the living room, her lady friend leaned over to her hostess to say, 'I think it's wonderful that, after all these years, you still call your husband all those loving names'.

The elderly lady hung her head. 'I have to tell you the truth,' she said, 'his name slipped my mind about 10 years ago and I'm scared to death to ask
the cranky old asshole what his name is.'

On his 74th birthday, a man got a gift certificate from his wife. The certificate paid for a visit to a medicine man living on a nearby reservation who was rumoured to have a wonderful cure for erectile dysfunction. After being persuaded, he drove to the reservation, handed his certificate to the medicine man and wondered what he was in for. The old man handed a potion to him, and with a grip on his shoulder, he warned, "This is a powerful medicine. You take only a teaspoonful and then say '1-2-3.' When you do, you will become more potent than you have ever been in your life and you can perform as long as you want."

The man was encouraged. As he walked away, he turned and asked, "How do I stop the medicine from working?"

"Your partner must say '1-2-3-4,'" he responded, "but when she does, the medicine will not work again until the next full moon."

He was very eager to see if it worked so he went home, showered, shaved, took a spoonful of the medicine and then invited his wife to join him in the bedroom. When she came in, he took off his clothes and said, "1-2-3!"

Immediately, he was the manliest of men. His wife was excited and began throwing off her clothes and then she asked “What was the 1-2-3 for?”

And that, boys and girls, is why we should never end our sentences with a preposition, because we could end up with a dangling participle.

Arcelor-Mittal Steel, feeling it was time for a shakeup, hired a new CEO. The new boss was determined to rid the company of all slackers.

On a tour of the facilities, the CEO noticed a guy leaning against a wall. The room was full of workers and he wanted to let them know that he meant business. He asked the guy, "How much money do you make a week?"

A little surprised, the young man looked at him and said, "I make $400 a week. Why?"

The CEO said, "Wait right here." He walked back to his office, came back in two minutes, and handed the guy $1,600 in cash and said, "Here's four weeks' pay. Now GET OUT and don't come back."

Feeling pretty good about himself the CEO looked around the room and asked, "Does anyone want to tell me what that goof-ball did here?"

From across the room a voice said, "Pizza delivery guy.”

A mechanic who worked out of his home had a dog named Mace.

Mace had a bad habit of eating all the grass in the mechanic’s lawn, so the mechanic had to keep Mace inside. The grass eventually became overgrown.

One day the mechanic was working on a car in his back yard and dropped his wrench losing it in the tall grass. He couldn’t find it for the life of him so decided to call it a day.

That night Mace escaped from the house and ate all the grass in the back yard. The next morning the mechanic went outside and saw his wrench glinting in the sunlight.

Realizing what had happened he looked up the the heavens and proclaimed......

“A grazing Mace, how sweet the hound that saved a wrench for me!”

Thanks to all who shared their jokes this week (and before) Hugs, Have a great week-end.

Mr. President...A very human side.

2012-01-26T07:00:00.001-06:00

With all the attacks on Mr. Obama I feel the need to post three pictures I have seen recently. They show a caring human side to a man who is constantly attacked and vilified by hypocritical Rebublithugs who constantly tell lies and half truths and will do anything they can to keep him from winning a second term. A man who is constantly under pressure to do the best he can for all of the people of this nation. I feel he is in the office because he wanted to do something for our country...I don't always feel that way when it comes to those running on the other side.

Well, I don't always like his political stances but I do love his humaness and the way he relates to people, The hug for Gabby - rushing to make a phone call to the father of the rescued American and the fist bump with the janitor all tell me that while he is President, people are more important to him than his ego. He engages with them. He a man who against great odds has still been able to accomplish great things for our country. I am glad he is in the office and I will vote to keep him there and every lie that comes out against him just stiffens my resolve.

The Dowager Countess

2012-01-25T07:00:00.003-06:00

From the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts

2012-01-24T14:02:00.001-06:00

Miles on Monday on Tuesday

2012-01-24T07:00:00.002-06:00

Jon took the "boys" up to the groomer. Miles hasn't been over for awhile and I missed him. Cassie missed him also. She didn't have any one to play with so she even tried to get Bailey to play with her.

I picked them up and brought them home and the first thing MIles wanted to do was to check out "his" back yard. He made tracks to the door and ran all around in the snow. He also likes to eat the snow.

Then it was off to the corner to check on the neighbors (or maybe it was the rabbit that had just jumped over there. You have to look close to him as he is a "winter" dog with his coloring.

Checking thing out!

Making the rounds.

Things seem to be fine. Think I'll come in now.

I want a treat, please!

Come ON! Please!

Nap time. See you later

Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen statement on Senate Bill 6239 to allow same-sex marriage

2012-01-23T14:35:00.000-06:00

Washington now has the votes to pass Marriage Equality. I am pleased for them. Every right which is enjoyed by one set of people should be available for all. This is not a religious issue. It is a humane one, Congratulations to Sen. Haugen for her courage and wisdom in making this decision.

Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen statement on Senate Bill 6239 to allow same-sex marriage, issued after today's hearing:

"For several weeks now, I have heard from the people of my district. They've shared what's in their hearts and minds.

"I have received many letters, emails, phone calls, very heartfelt, from both sides of the issue. I've also received a number of very negative comments from both sides.

"For some people, this is a simple issue. I envy them. It has not been simple or easy for me.

"To some degree, this is generational. Years ago I took exception to my parents' beliefs on certain social issues, and today my children take exception to some of mine. Times change, even if it makes us uncomfortable. I think we should all be uncomfortable sometime. None of us knows everything, and it's important to have our beliefs questioned. Only one being in this world is omniscient, and it's not me.

"I have very strong Christian beliefs, and personally I have always said when I accepted the Lord, I became more tolerant of others. I stopped judging people and try to live by the Golden Rule. This is part of my decision. I do not believe it is my role to judge others, regardless of my personal beliefs. It's not always easy to do that. For me personally, I have always believed in traditional marriage between a man and a woman. That is what I believe, to this day.

"But this issue isn't about just what I believe. It's about respecting others, including people who may believe differently than I. It's about whether everyone has the same opportunities for love and companionship and family and security that I have enjoyed.
"For as long as I have been alive, living in my country has been about having the freedom to live according to our own personal and religious beliefs, and having people respect that freedom.

"Not everyone will agree with my position. I understand and respect that. I also trust that people will remember that we need to respect each other's beliefs. All of us enjoy the benefits of being Americans, but none of us holds a monopoly on what it means to be an American. Ours is truly a big tent, and while the tent may grow and shrink according to the political winds of the day, it should never shrink when it comes to our rights as individuals.

"Do I respect people who feel differently? Do I not feel they should have the right to do as they want? My beliefs dictate who I am and how I live, but I don't see where my believing marriage is between a man and a woman gives me the right to decide that for everyone else.

"I've weighed many factors in arriving at this decision, and one of them was erased when the legislation heard today included an amendment to clearly provide for the rights of a church to choose not to marry a couple if that marriage contradicts the church's view of its teachings. That's important, and it helped shape my decision.

"My preference would be to put this issue on the ballot and give all Washingtonians the opportunity to wrestle with this issue, to search their hearts as I have, and to make the choice for themselves. But I do not know that there are the votes to put it to a ballot measure. So, forced to make a choice, my choice is to allow all men and women in our state to enjoy the same privileges that are so important in my life. I will vote in favor of marriage equality.

"I know this announcement makes me the so-called 25th vote, the vote that ensures passage. That's neither here nor there. If I were the first or the seventh or the 28th vote, my position would not be any different. I happen to be the 25th because I insisted on taking this much time to hear from my constituents and to sort it out for myself, to reconcile my religious beliefs with my beliefs as an American, as a legislator, and as a wife and mother who cannot deny to others the joys and benefits I enjoy.

"This is the right vote and it is the vote I will cast when this measure comes to the floor."

Most People

2012-01-23T12:58:00.000-06:00

I was talking with a brother, thinking about all the "stuff" that is going on in politics and it reminded me of this poem I wrote ages ago. Enjoy.

Most People

Most people sing just one song

give just one speech,
have just one conversation –
usually with themselves.

Most people dance
just one dance,
walk just one walk
Go to just one place - many times.

Most Rock Stars give the same concert
over and over.
Most comedians tell the same joke -
although sometimes with different punch lines.

Most Authors who write just one book
can do it many times.

Most politicians have just one idea –
usually some else’s.
If you change your audience no one knows you are boring!

Some people however
Sing several songs,
Dance many dances,
Walk in different worlds.

Some people have endless conversations with many people.

Some people never listen
but others always do.

Some people stand out and stand up.

They are original, diverse, endlessly fascinating shining stars.

Jay Cole Simser

Happy (Chinese) New Year

2012-01-23T07:00:00.009-06:00

This is the year of the Dragon in the Chinese Zodiac. Lots of people want to predict what you will be like depending upon when you were born. Astrology tells me I am a Scorpio. The Chinese Astrology says that I was born during a year of the Snake. They want me to believe that I have certain characteristics because of when I was born. Funny I don't feel determined, forceful, emotional, intuitive. powerful, passionate,exciting or magnetic, nor am I jealous, resentful, compulsive, obsessive, secretive, or obstinate.. Well maybe a little secretive and obstinate. Those born in the year of the snake are supposed to be good mediators, good at business, Keen, cunning, quite intelligent and wise.

Everybody wants to predict the future. Right now there is a program on the History Channel about Nostradamus who made many predictions.. The thing is who knows and who cares If we are indeed spiritual beings then our existence does not rely on the material world and whether or not the world ends (according to the Mayan Calendar) we will be held eternally in Mind. And if not we won't be around to worry about it. Therefore we should enjoy our lives as best we are able and live to the fullest that which has been given to us... the present....All that really matters. The gift is the present. Enjoy your week and be grateful for life and wonder at the life around you. The greatest gift ever given to you.

Quote for today

2012-01-22T15:13:00.000-06:00

"...if teachers dare ask for a raise, this is taken by many as clear evidence that teachers don’t give a porcupine’s posterior about kids. In fact, some say if teachers really cared about their students they would insist on earning LESS money.

If that entire attitude weren’t bad enough, what other profession is legally held to PERFECTION by 2014? Are police required to eliminate all crime? Are firefighters required to eliminate all fires? Are doctors required to cure all patients? Are lawyers required to win all cases? Are coaches required to win all games? Of course they aren’t." David Reber

Read the entire article here. It is worth your time.

Sunday Funnies

2012-01-22T07:00:00.004-06:00

The Secret Crown by Chris Kuzneski

2012-01-21T16:26:00.003-06:00

It is seldom that I find a new author that I enjoy as much as I did this one. Chris Kuzneski (who claims that he is not sure how to pronounce his last name) kept me up until the wee hours last night reading this new novel which was released January 12th.

Chris is a New York Times best selling author who lives on the Gulf coast of Florida. (I actually thought about moving there once until I had a dream in which I saw a long row of leathery tanned men sitting in Adirondack chairs lined up all along the coast...I wanted the Gulf Coast so that I could enjoy the sunsets being far to lazy to get up and see the sunrise on the Atlantic side - Actually today I wish I lived there as it is freaking cold here in Iowa). Being an intelligent person he moved there after having been born in Indiana and having lived in northern climes previously.. Previously he was also a football player and a teacher. Then he took up writing (Actually he wrote his first book when he was in fourth grade) and has many titles to choose from. He uses some of the same characters in several books but they are not dependant on one another and can be read in any order. They also seem to have something similar in many of them a hunt for a fabulous treasure.

The Secret Crown introduced me to King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Known as the mad king (he was eccentric) he was loved by his people and (probably) murdered by his cabinet. He was a builder and one of his castles was used by Walt Disney as a model for Sleeping Beauty's Castle in Disneyland. (Visit his castles here.) Actually his "madness" in building his castles has brought in millions of tourist dollars to his country so perhaps he was not "mad" but rather just a dreamer.

It is a fast paced novel with venues from Pittsburgh to Germany and Switzerland. There is a lot of action (the bad guys get killed) and you do learn a lot about the King and his eccentricities as you read the exciting story. It is told without boring you. That is actually something I like. Chris has a Facebook page and a Web site where you can take a virtual tour of his books. I just went to Amazon and ordered 4 more of his books. If someone wants to borrow The Secret Crown just let me know.

R.I.P Dorothy Barton

2012-01-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

Readers of this blog know that I serve on the Eastern Star Masonic Home Board. One of the main reasons I ran for the Home Board was so that could hang out with Dorothy Barton. Dorothy and I met through the Order of the Eastern Star. Her daughter Jean is a District Instructor and always gives me a hard time when she instructs. If she didn't I would think she was mad at me.

Dorothy was a good friend of my mother also. It is strange that my mother died on January 16 and now January 17 was the day that Dorothy passed. Two great women, both of whom loved Eastern Star and were past matrons and secretary. Dorothy put in many more years of service than Mom.. in fact more than anyone I knew. She was an officer before I was born (and I am now 70) and had continuous service since she joined. A remarkable record. The following is from the Obituary that was published in the Des Moines Register.

Dorothy was born the daughter of Ralph Fletcher and Sylvia Lavina (Ringgenberg) Williams on August 19, 1918 at rural Polk City, Iowa. She was a graduate of the American Institute of Business in Des Moines. On September 14, 1946, Dorothy was united in marriage to Duane Edward Barton and they made their home in Polk City.

She was formerly employed as a clerical worker with F.W. Fitch Company, Ahern-Pershing, and the Iowa State Fair.

Dorothy was a member of Sheldahl United Methodist Church and the Polk City Chapter Order of Eastern Star for 73 years, of which she was an officer for 72 years and secretary for 64 years. Dorothy had served on the Board at the Eastern Star Masonic Home in Boone for five years, where she had resided since 2009.

I think Dorothy enjoyed her time living at the Home. Her family came to see her often and she was well taken care of while she was there.
This is from Proverbs and it fits for Dorothy as it fit my grandmother when I first heard it at her funeral in 1959:

10Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

...

20She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

...

25Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

28Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

31Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Rest in peace my Sister and my friend, I shall miss you.

R.I.P. Etta James

2012-01-20T12:48:00.000-06:00

One of the greatest singers of our time has passed. Link to article here.

Found For Friday

2012-01-20T07:00:00.002-06:00

A psychiatrist is doing rounds in his asylum with a couple of students. They look in on one patient and the psychiatrist says to his students, “Sometimes this fellow thinks he’s a temptress in a Bizet opera, but today, as you can see from his goose stepping, he thinks he’s the World War II head of the Nazi Luftwaffe. What condition do

you think he’s suffering from?”

The first student replies, “Is he a paranoid schizophrenic with a multiple personality disorder?”

The second student says, “No, I think he just doesn’t know whether he’s Carmen or Goering.”

She was in the bathroom, putting on her makeup, under the watchful eyes of her young granddaughter, as she'd done many times before. After she applied her lipstick and started to leave, the little one said, "But Grandma, you forgot to kiss the toilet paper good-bye!" I will probably never put lipstick on again without thinking about kissing the toilet paper good-bye....

My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday. He asked me how old I was, and I told him, 72. My grandson was quiet for a moment, and then he asked, "Did you start at 1?"

After putting her grandchildren to bed, a grandmother changed into old slacks and a droopy blouse and proceeded to wash her hair. As she heard the children getting more and more rambunctious, her patience grew thin. Finally, she threw a towel around her head and stormed into their room, putting them back to bed with stern warnings. As she left the room, she heard the three-year-old say with a trembling voice, "Who was THAT?"

A grandmother was telling her little granddaughter what her own childhood was like. "We used to skate outside on a pond. I had a swing made from a tire; it hung from a tree in our front yard. We rode our pony. We picked wild raspberries in the woods." The little girl was wide-eyed, taking this all in. At last she said, "I sure wish I'd gotten to know you sooner!"

My grandson was visiting one day when he asked, "Grandma, do you know how you and God are alike?" I mentally polished my halo and I said, "No, how are we alike?'' "You're both old," he replied

A little girl was diligently pounding away on her grandfather's computer. She told him she was writing a story. "What's it about?" he asked. "I don't know," she replied. "I can't read."

Have a great week-end! Hugs, j

Friends of the Des Moines Consistory - 1/19/12

2012-01-19T22:14:00.000-06:00

The Friends of the Des Moines Consistory met this evening for a major announcement regarding the fund raising for the building. The library has been rearranged and it is much nicer now and should be more useable for gatherings and meetings. I had a great time at the meeting and enjoyed my table partners very much. I hope you enjoy the pictures. There is also a snap of the sunset as I was driving into town. It was hard to take the picture but you get the idea.

Des Moines York Rite Installations

2012-01-18T22:16:00.001-06:00

Friend and Brother Kurt Hoffmann was installed as High Priest, Master and Commander last evening. I don't remember when I have seen that many people at an Installation of late. The members and guests heard an ambitious plan for an exciting year. If all of the heads of the various York Rite Bodies were as forward thinking and creative as Kurt I might feel a lot better about the direction of the Rite in Iowa. It will be interesting to see if he can increase participation in the Rite and translate that into success so that when his son is eligible (in 10 years) to become a member there will still be a York Rite to welcome him. My very best to the York Rite in Des Moines. PGHP Charlie Smithson made a good choice when he appointed Kurt to the line to start through the chairs as did the members of the Downtown York Rite who elected him the following year.

On Strike

2012-01-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

Today, we are striking against censorship.

Join the largest online protest in history: tell Congress to stop this bill now!

Go here to sign petition.

The Remember Song

2012-01-17T19:35:00.000-06:00

The Remember Song

Winton Marsalis on Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-17T08:58:00.002-06:00

Lunch with Ginny

2012-01-17T07:00:00.003-06:00

Ginny and I had lunch at Cafe Milo on Monday. I was very good and had a cup of soup and only ate 1/2 of my sandwich. We met at 1:15 because she is volunteering at the Butterfly exhibit at Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University, She shared some news that she is going to be working at a job soon. The Serenity Spa. This is sort of a trial to see how she will be able to handle working. It has been a long time for her since her accident put her in a wheel chair. She went back to school, earned a degree and now through Voc Rehab she is getting a chance to return to the work force. She would not have had this chance if not for the programs in place to help people who have been beaten down.

I guess that is the biggest thing that bothers me about the Republicans. They do not seem to have any empathy for the people like my sister. (Empathy is the capacity to recognize and, to some extent, share feelings (such as sadness or happiness) that are being experienced by another sapient or semi-sapient being. Someone may need to have a certain amount of empathy before they are able to feel compassion.Wipedia)

I have watched a lot of clips and the thing that strikes me about Romney, Santorium, Cantor, et. al is that someone will tell them their story or ask them a question and they will stand there with a frozen look on their face and then walk away. I just cannot trust someone who does not engage with those who are hurting, those who have been dealt a bad hand and who are just asking for some help and understanding. If they cannot have compassion and empathy they are not going to help those who need our help. And as for Mr. Romney and the way he treated his dog shows the type of person he is.

They sort of act like "I've got mine and I am not sharing." But I have digressed. I am proud that there was (is) a program in place in my country to help people like Ginny get going again and be able to live a contributing worthwhile life. And I am proud of Ginny for not giving up and for trying to continue to grow in all that she does.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-16T18:49:00.001-06:00

Honoring Dr. King requires action, and not just any kind of action, but action aimed at producing a new way of living.

It is one thing, after all, to build houses for homeless people, but quite another to demand an end to housing shortages in a nation as wealthy as this one. It is one thing to feed the hungry, but quite another to demand that food security be guaranteed as a matter of public policy and not just hoped for as the result of private charity. It is one thing, in short, to honor the safe Martin Luther King Jr., and another to honor the man in his entirety.

Tim Wise

Is there anything more contagious than laughter?

2012-01-16T15:31:00.002-06:00

Breakfast Sunday

2012-01-16T07:00:00.003-06:00

The Masons of Waveland Park Lodge hold a breakfast on the third Sunday of the month. The first time I went to one of these I was invited down by a couple of Brothers from Arcadia Lodge. It is an excellent breakfast and it helps a good cause. They use the proceeds for their charitable work.
I met Steve and Gloria there this morning. I had not been down for over a year. (part of the not feeling well all last year). I snapped some shots around the room. There were a lot of people coming in and out this morning.

It is nice because I got a good breakfast for $6 (I always give them more) - For that I got an omelet, a half order of biscuits and gray, sausage links, American fries, orange juice, and coffee. I could have ordered more or asked for seconds. Pancakes and French toast are also available. Milk and regular toast is also available. Really the best bargain for breakfast in central Iowa.

We sat there from 10:00 until 12:00.

Some folks bring the whole family and others come by themselves.

The food is served by the Masons along with friendly smiles and refills for coffee and OJ or milk,

There was a pretty steady stream of customers coming in.

The pool table serves as a serving table.

The kitchen crew.

Steve and Gloria were selling Girls Scout cookies for their daughter so I purchased my annual allotment of GS cookies. (a lot) I was disappointed as I had been hearing about the new cookie but evidently they are not available in Iowa. Aslo Gloria was out of Thin Mints and Short Bread so I could not get those. Oh well.

After breakfast I ran out to Costco to get the Sweet and Salty breakfast bars that I usually have for breakfast and then I went to the Fluer Theater to see Meryl's movie Iron Lady. I had to see it in Des Moines because Cinemark was not showing it in Ames. (Have I told you how much I dislike the Cinemark experience?) I have mixed emotions about the movie as a whole but not about Miss Streep's performance. It was a tour de force. She played Mrs. Thatcher to perfection.. Almost made this ultra liberal blogger like her. I guess I can like her for her strength and ability without agreeing with her politics

I also finished reading Executive Intent and started The Secret Crown (which is fast paced and really good.

No Miles this week-end. I didn't even see Jon but he called me because he is going to need a ride to the High School one day this week because his car is going in to be serviced. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs, j

Sunday Funnies

2012-01-15T07:00:00.001-06:00

Quote of the Day

2012-01-14T10:15:00.000-06:00

I've come to believe in Tim Tebow, but not for what he does on a football field, which is still three parts Dr. Jekyll and two parts Mr. Hyde.

No, I've come to believe in Tim Tebow for what he does off a football field, which is represent the best parts of us, the parts I want to be and so rarely am.

Rick Reilly

I had a critical post about Tim Tebow up earlier because I really don't like people who make a big show of praying in public. I got a comment on it which directed me to this article and I watched a spot on TV about him and I have (somewhat) changed my opinion. So in fairness I have taken that post down and request that you read this article and perhaps cut him some slack as I will now do.

Found For Friday

2012-01-13T07:00:00.001-06:00

A customer at the local grocery store marveled at the proprietor’s quick wit and intelligence.

“Tell me, what makes you so smart?” he asked the owner.

“I wouldn’t share my secret with just anyone,” came the reply. Then, lowering his voice so the other shoppers wouldn’t hear, he continued. “But since you’re a good and faithful customer, I’ll let you in on it. Fish heads. You eat enough of them, you’ll be positively brilliant.”

“You sell them here?” the customer asked.

“Only $4 apiece,” said the grocer.

The customer quickly bought three. A week later, he was back in the store complaining that the fish heads were disgusting and he wasn’t any smarter.

“You didn’t eat enough,” replied the store owner, and the customer went home with 20 more fish heads. Two weeks later, he was back and this time he was really angry.

“Hey,” he said, “You’re selling me fish heads for $4 apiece when I just found out I can buy the whole fish for $2.
You’re ripping me off!”

“You see?” replied the grocer.

“You’re smarter already.”

A clergyman was walking down a country lane one warm summer day and encountered a young farmer struggling to load hay back onto a cart after it had fallen off.

"You look hot, my son," said the parson. "Why don't you rest a moment, and then I'll give you a hand."

"No, thanks," said the young man, continuing to work away. "My father wouldn't like it."

"Don't be silly," the minister said. "Everyone is entitled to a break. Come have a drink of water."

Again the young man protested that his father would be upset. Losing his patience, the clergyman said, "Your father must be a real slave driver. Tell me where I can find him and I'll give him a piece of my mind!"

"Well," replied the young farmer, "right now he's under this load of hay."

As I was lying in bed pondering the problems of the world,

I rapidly realized that I don't really give a rat's nest; It's the tortoise life for me!

1. If walking/cycling is good for your health, the postman would be immortal.

2. A whale swims all day, only eats fish, drinks water, and is fat.

3. A rabbit runs and hops and only lives 15 years.

4. A tortoise doesn't run and does nothing, yet it lives for 450 years.

And you tell me to exercise?? I don't think so.

I'm retired. Go around me!

If I had three wishes, one would be to always know what my puppy is

thinking!

“No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as the
dog does”. Christopher Morley

"There is always some madness in love; But there is always some reason
in madness". Nietzsche

By the time a women realizes her mother was right, she has a

daughter who thinks she's wrong.

Keep your chin up, only the first 40 years of parenthood are the

hardest..

. If it has Tires or Testicles it's gonna give you trouble.

When life gives you lemons in 2012 - turn it into lemonade (and add

the vodka).

Remember where ever there is a good looking; sweet, single or
married man there is some woman tired of his bullshit!

Lead me not into temptation, I can find it myself.

Don't get your knickers in a knot; it solves nothing and makes you
walk funny.

When life gets you down - just put on your big girl panties and deal

with it.

Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just your
personality.

In need of a support group? - Cocktail hour with the girls!

Go on the 30 day diet.. (I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days).

I know I'm in my own little world, but it's ok. They know me here.

Hachi: A Dog's Tale

2012-01-12T07:00:00.012-06:00

This movie has been sitting on my machine for a couple of weeks. I have a habit of looking through the guide and recording some movies that I think I might like to watch and when there are re-runs I can watch something. I figure it is cheaper than Netflix and I don't have to hurry to watch it and get it back. I was a little nervous about this movie but I do like Richard Gere and since he was in it I took a chance and taped it.

It wasn't the first choice this morning but the other movie lasted about 5 minutes and I deleted it.... I was afraid something would happen to the dog in the end of the story but I decided to watch it anyway.

I went through about 1/2 a box of Kleenex.

As I was watching this story of love between a man and his dog the tears just started flowing. It was heartwarming.

In the beginning a little boy is telling the story of his grandfather's dog. He tells how the dog was lost from the train it was on and how he connected with the college professor grandfather. He was taken home and eventually grew up. He started following the professor to the train station to see him off and would meet the train at night. You can guess what happens. One day the professor dies while teaching. The dog continues to come to meet him - for nine years. And the thing is it is a true story. It happened in Japan and Hachi is pictured on the right. The Japanese people erected a bronze statue to him. Each year on April 8, Hachikō's devotion is honored with a solemn ceremony of remembrance at Tokyo's Shibuya railroad station. Hundreds of dog lovers often turn out to honor his memory and loyalty

You can read about the movie here.

You can read the story of the real dog here.

I tear up just thinking of this animal's loyalty and wondering how he could wait for 9 years for his master/friend to return. I guess that makes me what Madpriest would call Soppy. So be it. Thanks for stopping by. If you have a dog give them an extra treat and a scratch behind the ears. Pardon me while I go find Bailey.

This 'n That

2012-01-11T07:00:00.001-06:00

For the last year I have been having difficulty. Followers of the blog know that I was ill, I fell, I had to get a new transmission on my old car (and then a new car). I had no energy and did not feel like doing much of anything. I even made the Madpriest's prayer list a few times. HOWEVER, things seem to have changed and are much better. For the first time in over a year I feel human again. Oh sure there are days I just stay home and putz around on the computer (God forbid that I should clean/sort/pick things up or file anything) but I feel fine. And I have gone out to eat three times with friends in the last two weeks. Two former students asked me if I wanted to have lunch and it was so very nice to have an adult connection with them and have a great lunch and conversation. Matt N and I ate at the Flame and Skewer last week and Yoni and I ate at Stompin' Grounds today. Yoni is going to Israel and Kenya and will be gone until next July. He graduated from college and is applying to graduate schools.

Sunday night after Lodge Installation Kurt and I went out to eat at Django's - It had been over a year since I had eaten there. I had seen a dish on the Internet that looked good and then a recipe showed up so I looked at it and decided that I could make that. And then there it was on the menu:

Beef Bourguignon

Boneless beef roast braised in red wine with carrot, mushrooms,

pearl onions and bacon served over buttered egg noodles.

so I was able to have that rather than have to cook it myself.
Of course there was also an appetizer:

Herbed Goat Cheese Croustades Baked herbed goat cheese and
ratatouille finished with pesto and served with toasted baguette
and soup

Tomato Artichoke Bisque

And a nice glass of wine. I could not eat it all and the second best thing about the dinner (the best thing was being able to dine with Kurt) was enjoying the leftovers the next evening because I brought it home. Bailey even enjoyed a bite or two.

The Lodge installed its fourth Worshipful Master and since Kurt and I had the idea to start the Lodge it was sort of a celebration and a chance to catch up because we had not been able to eat together and just visit for a long time. It was a good evening.

When you live alone and have a chance to go out three times to visit with someone and have a nice meal and re-connect with one and continue a reconnection with another former student who have now become friends it is a happening worth mentioning. So I did. Happy Wednesday, everyone. Stay warm. Hugs, jcs

Ithaca

2012-01-11T00:09:00.000-06:00

Dr. Ur-Spo shared this poem on Facebook. I had not heard it before and I am in awe - Do enjoy the beauty of the poem.

Dancin' The Slow Dance

2012-01-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

I love this poem. It wrote itself. I was sitting out at West HyVee having a cup of Starbuck's coffee and noticed this couple walking down the aisle. They were tall and thin and elegant
with thinning white hair they were obviously devoted to one another and it just looked like they were dancing. I wish I knew who they were so I could share it with them,

Stock photo

Dancin’ The Slow Dance!
January 11, 2005

They came down the aisle,
Side by side,
Arm in arm.
Left foot right foot,
Forward together,
They’re dancin’ the slow dance now.

Not for them intricate steps of a Tango, Rumba or Waltz,
No Boogie Woogie, Charleston, or Cha Cha Cha
He doesn’t sweep her around the floor or dip her way back,
But they still move together,
Slow dancin’ to the music of life

You can tell theirs has been a long dance
The way they move together
A joy to watch for those who see.
(Most don’t see them).
Just an old couple moving slowly through the store

But there is rare beauty in their movement
Side by side,
Arm in arm,
Left feet forward.
Right feet forward
They’re slow dancin’ the last dance together.

Snowy Owl - Photos by Bob Kelly

2012-01-09T07:00:00.002-06:00

I was able to find and photograph the young male Snowy Owl Sunday afternoon (1-8-12),out in a harvested soybean field, and about an hour later again as he sat atop a tall electric power pole. It is not uncommon for 1-5 Snowy Owls to be seen somewhere in Iowa during the winter months, but for the most part their range is from the frozen tundra of northern Canada, down as far south as central Minnesota.

This year was different due to a large hatching of the Snowy Owl chicks that survived, and also to a plentiful supply of Lemmings (mouse like critter) that the owls eat. As the owls grew older and ate more, the supply of Lemmings diminished, and so lots of Snowy Owls migrated southward to find more food. This year in Iowa we have had reports of nearly 75 Snowy Owls being seen. I had only seen one in my lifetime until today! I am hoping this young male will like the mouse cafeteria offerings of Story County and continue to be with us this winter for more photos. You can read more about the Snowy Owls here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowy_Owl

Specialis Procer Lodge - Installation of 2012 officers.

2012-01-08T22:48:00.000-06:00

Tracks from Jack Frost - Photos by Bob Kelly

2012-01-08T13:30:00.000-06:00

Jack Frost left some tracks in the early hours on Sunday, January 8, 2012, and they were most evident out in the countryside along the road ditches. I was on the look out for a very rare Snowy Owl, that is hanging around Story County just now, and while I did not get a decent photo of it to share here, I will keep trying. In the meantime enjoy the beauty of frost crystals on weeds, that here look like things of beauty!

On the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, 2011

2012-01-08T10:55:00.000-06:00

I have placed a link to the speech in the column on the left so that those who come in from Freemasonry Watch will find this excellent speech given by Brother Klaus. In it you will find the unvarnished truth about the origins of Freemasonry.. No Knights Templar arriving in Scotland who decided to build a chapel with "secrets" all through the architecture, no hidden meetings in the catacombs of Rome or the pyramids of Egypt. As Joe Friday used to say "Just the Facts Mam," I will also link to it here.

Sunday Funnies

2012-01-08T07:00:00.006-06:00

My Political Compass

2012-01-07T15:40:00.001-06:00

You can take a test to see where you fall on the Political spectrum. My results are about the same as what I got when I took it quite some time ago.

The Political Compass

Economic Left/Right: -5.75
Social Libertarian/Authoritarian: -6.72

Just for comparison they have a graph with some other folks on it.

I guess winding up in the same quadrant as Nelson Mandela and His Holiness the Dalai Lama puts me in good company. At least I am satisfied.

Look What I Found

2012-01-07T07:00:00.002-06:00

Found For Friday

2012-01-06T07:00:00.001-06:00

Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her excitement - not even her parent's nasty divorce.
Her mother had found the PERFECT dress to wear, and would be the best-dressed mother-of-the-bride ever!
A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new, young wife had bought the exact same dress as her mother!
Jennifer asked her father's new young wife to exchange it, but she refused. "Absolutely not! I look like a million bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it," she replied.
Jennifer told her mother who graciously said, "Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your special day."
A few days later, they went shopping, and did find another gorgeous dress for her mother.
When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, "Aren't you going to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where you could wear it."
Her mother just smiled and replied, "Of course I do, dear... I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner the night BEFORE the wedding."

A cop was on his horse waiting to cross the street, when a little girl On her new shiny bike stopped beside him.
'Nice bike,' the cop said. 'Did Santa bring it to you?'
'Yes Sir,' the little girl said, 'he sure did!'

The cop looked the bike over and handed the girl a $5 ticket for a safety violation. The cop said, 'Give this to your Dad, and next year, tell Santa to put a reflector light on the back of it!'

The young girl looked up at the cop and said,'Nice horse you've got there Sir. Did Santa bring it to you?'

Playing along with the girl, he chuckled and answered,'Yes, he sure did!'
The little girl looked up at the cop and said: 'Next year tell Santa; The dick goes underneath the horse, not on top'!!!

A lady goes to the bar on a cruise ship and orders a Scotch with two drops of water. As the bartender gives her the drink she says, 'I'm on this cruise to celebrate my 80th birthday and it's today....'

The bartender says, 'Well, since it's your birthday, I'll buy you a drink. In fact, this one is on me.'

As the woman finishes her drink, the woman to her right says, 'I would like to buy you a drink, too.'

The old woman says, 'Thank you. Bartender, I want a Scotch with two drops of water.'

'Coming up,' says the bartender

As she finishes that drink, the man to her left says, 'I would like to buy you one, too.'

The old woman says, 'Thank you. Bartender, I want another Scotch with two drops of water.'

'Coming right up,' the bartender says.

As he gives her the drink, he says, 'Ma'am, I'm dying of curiosity. Why the Scotch with only two drops of water?'

The old woman replies, 'Sonny, when you're my age, you've learned how to hold your liquor. Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue.'

I was in bed with a blind girl last night and she said that I had the
biggest penis she had ever laid her hands on. I said "You're pulling

my leg."

I saw a poor old lady fall over today on the ice! At least I presume
she was poor - she only had $1.20 in her purse.

Went for my routine checkup today and everything seemed to be going fine until he stuck his index finger up my butt! Do you think I
should change dentists?

The wife has been missing a week now. Police said to prepare for the worst. So, I have been to the thrift shop to get all of her clothes
back.

Happy Week-end everyone. Sorry for the repeats, Haven't gotten much lately.

This 'n That

2012-01-05T07:00:00.001-06:00

Another gratuitous picture that someone sent me that I want to share.

I had lunch on Wednesday with a former student. He would have been in my class 30 -35 years ago. We reconnected via Facebook.

We met at the Flame 'n Skewer up at the Mall and were there eating and talking for two hours. I don't know about Matt but I had a great time. A wide ranging conversation about things that were happening today. Neither of us spoke much about the days he was in my class. I suppose because I was interested in what had happened to him since then. He served our country in both the Navy and the Army and now lives in a small town north of here. One thing I kept seeing the little kid who was in my class. It is amazing how I can still see them (former students) as sixth grade students. That is visually. I can relate to them as adults.

I watched a wonderful 1991 movie the other night called The Story Lady. It starred Jessica Tandy and was delightful. I had tears in my eyes several times. An elderly lady comes to the city to live with her daughter who tries to find something for her to do. She discovers public access television and sets up her own show where she reads children's books. She soon has a following and well you get the idea. The thing is I want to mention is Jessica Tandy. Tandy died in 1994 and is probably more well known for the Driving Miss Daisy film she made with Morgan Freeman, Together with husband Hume Cronyn Jessica Tandy entertained and enriched my life and I am very grateful for having been able to see both of them because of movies and TV. They were both in Cocoon (which I enjoyed) and Cocoon2 (which I did not see.)

It was fun and heartwarming to see the film.

It was so pleasant to be reminded of them.

I finished the book, The Devil's Elixir (Click through to read a review) by Raymond Khoury. I enjoyed the book. I had read another book by this author and now after getting this one I discover that I had read yet another and there are still more. Anytime I can find an author that I like, who writes a book that will hold my interest I am happy.

Currently I am reading The Defector which I am also enjoying. We have a new book store in town Books-A-Million (What a stupid name) and I don't enjoy it as much as Borders I am finding that they have hard back books on sale for $6.97 or Buy two get one free, so it was easy to stock up on books. I used to go the public library but I got tired of the smoke smell on so many books. Now I just get them and when I am finished with them I take them over to the Eastern Star Board Meetings and the other Board members take them and when they are done then bring them back to the Home for the residents. Hopefully there will be a lot of people who will enjoy them.

Speaking of The Defector, there was one sentence in it that I just loved.."Color?"
"Black, of course. I assumed it was Viktor's A man like Viktor Orlov would only ride in a black car."

As regular readers of this blog will know I recently purchased a 2008 Denali Envoy. It is black. I feel very much like Viktor Orlov....driving around in my black car (especially at night) makes me feel very special and a little sinister.

I am so very grateful for today. I have enjoyed watching TV tonight. There were NO political ads for the Republican'ts running on the programs. Now there are just the obscenely annoying Channex (or however you spell it) commercials that I have to mute....I can't grab the remote fast enough.. The Progressive Insurance commercials must have been running long enough that I can blot them out of my consciousness. Anyway the politicians are gone and things have returned to normal. I take some comfort in the fact that of all the three top candidates 75% of those voting were for someone else. It is going to be a long year and next fall I will be doing a lot of reading.... Happy Thursday everyone, The week-end commeth. Hugs,

Update

2012-01-04T19:08:00.000-06:00

Gratuitous picture sent to me and added for no reason

It appears that what I needed was more space on my hard drive. I have 45 G of pictures in my iPhoto library. So I have backed them up on my external hard drive and will delete them from iPhoto. I also got rid of things I don't need and perhaps that will help. Oh and my battery needed replacing so that was sent in to Apple to get a new one. I really want a MacBook Pro with a 17 inch screen but not in my budget until I win the lottery.

In for Repairs.

2012-01-04T09:11:00.000-06:00

My computer is acting up so I am taking it to see Troy (Magic Computer Man). It may have to go to the Computer Hospital for awhile in order to get out of this mess. In the meantime you can entertain yourselves by visiting the links on the right or by reading a book. Who knows it could just be an out patient sort of thing and control will be returned to me soonest. I will still be able to read and send e-mail from my magic phone. Hugs j

Freemasonry

2012-01-04T07:00:00.001-06:00

The second annual Masons of California video contest grand prize winner - Culver City Foshay lodge No. 467.

Alternate to the Caucus

2012-01-03T17:06:00.003-06:00

For those of you who do not want to watch or participate in the Caucus madhouse during which every candidate fart will be covered you can click on (Bob's) picture of the eagles on the right hand column to be taken to the livestream coverage of the Decorah Eagles. The female has returned and when I clicked there this afternoon she was sitting on the nest but frankly if she is not there just looking at the empty nest would be more interesting than all of the pundits analyzing the madhouse that is the Iowa Caucus. I am so grateful that they will be over tonight and perhaps we can get back to truth in television again. BTW have you noticed how tiny Governor Perry's head is? The big collars on his shirts make him look like a pinhead.

Iowa Nice (Language NSFW)

2012-01-03T07:00:00.001-06:00

Eagles of Johnston, Iowa - Photos by Bob Kelly

2012-01-02T11:01:00.001-06:00

A small pond that is about the size of a football field and quite shallow has been adopted by a group of Bald Eagles, numbering between 25 and 30. The pond is shallow, but contains small silver fish called Shad, and some more gray and yellowish ones called Bullheads, and the fish are all about 6-8 inches or less in size. The Bald Eagles will most likely stay here until the pond freezes solid, which could happen any day now, or until they eat all the fish, and then at that point they would move elsewhere in hopes of finding open water and more fish. For those of you in the Des Moines and central Iowa area that want to see these majestic birds, find yourself in Johnston, about one mile east of the Des Moines River, along 70th Street. You will see a Casey's gas station, and right across the road from it, to the west is the pond. Park well off the shoulder along 70th street, pull out your binoculars or long lens, and enjoy....but.....do it SOON, as it was very cold in central Iowa last night and the pond is going to freeze over again, if it has not already. It is worth the trip, for you are quite close, and with binoculars the view is incredible. Enjoy!

Miles on Monday

2012-01-02T07:00:00.001-06:00

Click to embiggen

Miles came over to spend New Year's Eve and of course on January 1 he had to go out back to inspect his yard to see if everything was all in order. It seemed to be.

Click to embiggen

Then he was over to "present his rear" for scratching. Oh my, he loves that.

I know I need to have an official January 1, 2012 photograph.

Almost ready for my portrait

OOps, what was that noise.. Oh just the wind. It has been blowing all night and day.

"O.K. Mr DeMille, I am ready for my close up. There that should satisfy my fans!"

"I hear something."

It is Jon! Time to go home. It would be nice if you would get off that computer and say good-bye"

Sunday Funnies

2012-01-01T07:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T23:59:00.002-06:00

Everybody seems to be doing the how bad was last year and how good is next year going to be type of post right now. I started to look back over my posts for this past year but frankly 2011 was such a shitty year I don't want to relive it. I wrote last year about Bailey and how worried I was about him and if you want you can search it out. Suffice it to say he is still around and my greatest pleasure seems to be to be able to hold him while he sleeps and make him comfortable. Miles is coming over to spend New Year's Eve with me. I do not go out or celebrate in memory of two wonderful friends who had a run in with a train on New Year's Eve and were both killed.

I am very thankful for all of the blog readers and friends I have made through this blog. My computer is going to have to go into the shop because it is acting up. Hopefully it won't be too expensive but I may have to be off line starting sometime Tuesday. Happy New Year. Thanks for stopping by. ARTYAL. Always Remember That You Are Loved

St. John's Day in Winter Festive Board

2011-12-31T17:51:00.000-06:00

Photos from last night's excellent Festive Board at Specialis Procer Lodge. A good time was had by all.

Web Side Story

2011-12-31T07:00:00.007-06:00

Kathy had this on Facebook. I love it.

Kennedy Center Honors -

2011-12-31T07:00:00.005-06:00

What do Teachers Make?

2011-12-30T14:02:00.001-06:00

This needs to be seen ever once in awhile. Proud to have been a teacher.

Found For Friday

2011-12-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

A young man at a New Year’s party turned to his friend and asked him for a cigarette.

“I thought you made a New Year’s resolution to quit smoking,” said his friend.

“I’m in the process of quitting,” the man replied, “Right now, I am in the middle of phase one.”

“What’s phase one?’” asked his friend.

“I’ve quit buying.”

Why your bartender is better than your shrink
Ever since he was a child, George had a fear of someone hiding under his bed at night. He knew there was nobody under the bed, because he checked, every night. But he would spring awake every night in a panic, sweating, with a racing pulse. Finally, he decided that something needed to be done. So he went to his local shrink.

George told the shrink, "I've got problems. Every time I go to bed I think there's somebody under it. I'm scared. I think I'm going crazy."
"Just put yourself in my hands for one year," said the shrink, cinfidently. "Come talk to me three times a week and we should be able to get rid of those fears."
"How much do you charge?" asked George.
"Eighty dollars per visit," replied the doctor.
"I'll sleep on it," George said. (Hmmm, kinda ironic, since he couldn't sleep, but let's just call that a figure of speech.)
Six months later the doctor met George on the street. "Why didn't you come back to see me about those fears you were having?" he asked.
"Well," answered George, "Eighty bucks a visit times three times a week for a year is an awful lot of money! A bartender cured me for $10. I was so happy to have saved all that money that I went and bought me a new pickup."
"Is that so!", snorted the shrink with more than a bit of attitude. "And how, may I ask, did a bartender cure you?"
George smirked and replied, "He told me to cut the legs off my bed!"
FORGET THE SHRINKS. HAVE A DRINK AND SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BARTENDER!

Q: Where can men over the age of 60 find younger women who are interested in them?
A: Try a bookstore under fiction.

Q: What can a man do while his Wife is going through menopause?
A: Keep busy. If you're handy with tools, you can finish the basement. When you're done you'll have a place to live.

Q: Someone has told me that Menopause is mentioned in the Bible. Is that true? Where can it be found?

A: Yes. Matthew 14:92: "And Mary rode Joseph's ass all the way to Egypt..."

Q: How can you increase the heart rate of your 60-plus year old husband?

A: Tell him you're pregnant.

Q: How can you avoid that terrible curse of the elderly Wrinkles?

A: Take off your glasses.

Q: Why should 60-plus year old people use valet parking?
A: Valets don't forget where they park your car.

Q: Is it common for 60-plus year olds to have problems with short term memory storage?

A: Storing memory is not a problem, retrieving it is the problem.

Q: As people age, do they sleep more soundly?

A: Yes, but usually in the afternoon.

Q: Where should 60-plus year olds look for eye glasses?

A: On their foreheads.

Q: What is the most common remark made by 60-plus year olds when they enter antique stores?

A: "Gosh, I remember these!"

Thanks for stopping by, Have a wonderful New Year's Eve and a terrific 2012.

Aunt Chippie

2011-12-29T07:00:00.001-06:00

I keep thinking I need to write something and then when I go on Facebook and find this from one of my Facebook Friends I have to share it. I have not laughed this hard all year long. I love this woman.

Kennedy Center Honors

2011-12-28T13:02:00.000-06:00

I watched this show Tuesday Evening. for many years it is the one show I stay home for to watch live and it was a good thing I did because the record function on the machine didn't work. I was thrilled, excited, touched, entertained and enthralled for the two hours the show was on. Great artists and well worthy of the honors. I am glad I found this.... it wasn't shown on the TV show and I always like to see the events at the White House.

Vesuvius Pizza - This 'n that

2011-12-28T07:00:00.001-06:00

A bit of wisdom found on Facebook. And the very first thing (one) to forgive is ourselves for whatever we may have done unintentionally. However if we have hurt someone intentionally it is going to take more than self-forgiveness to move on.

I shared this photo on Facebook, then I noticed something about it and edited it our and then I decided that I liked the unedited version so here it is. He was watching me eat a rare roast beef sandwich and wanted his taste. (He got it)

Monday evening my sister and nephew and I went to Vesuvius Pizza for supper. Jon and I both had the #9 - _A unique pizza with traditional La Quercia coppa (also called "capicolla"),

goat cheese, crushed red pepper, and arugula._" I had them leave the red peppers off mine as I am not a spicy fan. It was delicious and as they said the fact that the ovens fire at over 800 degrees meant that the pizza was out very fast. The wine was very good also.

We went there because Jon has a friend who works there and also because they carry wine and he wanted to have wine with his pizza. I must admit that it was one of the best pizza's I have ever eaten.

I am kind of disgruntled with Black Market Pizza because after I collected 10 "Louies" and I called in to have my free one delivered I was told they no longer delivered free pizzas and I would have to come pick it up...(I am perfectly willing to pay the delivery fee and to tip the driver the usual amount but I prefer to have the pizza delivered.) So I have not ordered from them for awhile. And I think I have lost one of the Louies so I won't be going there for awhile (My mother always did say that I was "willing to cut off my nose to spite my face." and I haven't changed. Did I mention that I no longer shop at Target? They wanted to scan my driver's license in order for me to purchase a bottle of wine...there are other places to shop.)

The pizza when it came was delicious. My sister got a ham and pineapple pizza and for dessert we all had Tiramisu and it also was delicious and it was a huge piece - (Not like some places where you pay a big price for a postage size serving) - Ginny had never had it before. Think of that 59 years old and never tasted tiramisu. I am glad to have given her the experience.

Speaking of ages, our family ages form an interesting pattern. On November 13 I became 70, in February my mother would have been 100, my sister will turn 60 in July and Jon will be 30. That is the only way I can keep track of them. Mom and Ginny and I are all "water" signs. Jon is not. Which explains a lot but I won't go into that.

Thanks for stopping by and do visit Vesuvius Wood Fired Pizza when you get a chance.

The Scarlet Lion

2011-12-27T07:00:00.007-06:00

When I finished Elizabeth Chadwick's The Greatest Knight about William Marshal of England I was disappointed because I the rest of the story was still untold. It left off in the middle of his life,

This knight who had served Henry, Richard and King John of England had much more to accomplish according to the on-line investigation I had been doing.

So I was pleased to find that the second half of the story was told in another book. The Scarlet Lion picks up where The Greatest Knight leaves off and continues the story. And it is just as well told as the first book.

Elizabeth Chadwick tells the story from the standpoint of the women in the Earl's life. His wife the Countess who was his advisor, helper, confidant and deputy to run the estates when he was gone fighting. It paints a picture of life in the 1200's when the stability of the lives could very well be dependent upon the whim of one person. The king could make life easy or hard.

It was very enjoyable and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a good historical novel. Elizabeth is working on a novel of Eleanor of Aquitaine. I can't wait for it to come out.

Miles on Monday

2011-12-26T07:01:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday

2011-12-26T07:00:00.001-06:00

Marsengill Christmas Dinner

2011-12-25T22:35:00.000-06:00

Jerry Marsengill once told me that he wished he had done more for people than (he felt) he had. It is a measure of his humility that he did not realise how much he had done. A Masonic scholar, ritualist and mainstay of the Des Moines and Iowa Masonic bodies for many years, Jerry had the idea to hold a free Christmas Dinner for anyone who would be alone on Christmas or who just needed a meal. The dinners have continued and are now named for him. Masons from all over central Iowa contribute funds and donate time to help with this event. They are held in the Des Moines Scottish Rite Masonic Center

For those who can't make it to the Center they will go out and pick them up and bring them down and will also deliver meals. My job is to answer the phone in the office and call the orders downstairs to the delivery fellows. They brought me up a meal and it was more than I could eat but it was delicious.

Ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing, green beans (of course) and pumpkin pie.

Six to Eight Black Men - A reading by David Sedaris

2011-12-25T16:25:00.000-06:00

This is laugh out loud funny.

I do like these people - A message from the President and Mrs. Obama

2011-12-25T15:39:00.003-06:00

Bailey's Buddy

Found For Friday

The Red Cross have just knocked at our door and asked if we could help towards the floods in Pakistan. I said we would love to, but our

garden hose only reaches the driveway.

Being a modest man, when I checked into my hotel on a recent trip, I

said to the lady at the registration desk, "I hope the porn channel in

my room is disabled." To which she replied, "No, it's regular porn, you sick bastard."

A buddy of mine has just told me he's getting it on with his

girlfriend and her twin. I said "How can you tell them apart?" He

said "Her brother's got a mustache."

You can say lots of bad things about pedophiles but at least they

drive slowly past schools.

My girlfriend thinks that I'm a stalker. Well, she's not exactly my

girlfriend yet.

Mr. President...A very human side.

The Dowager Countess

From the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts

Miles on Monday on Tuesday

Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen statement on Senate Bill 6239 to allow same-sex marriage

Most People

I was talking with a brother, thinking about all the "stuff" that is going on in politics and it reminded me of this poem I wrote ages ago. Enjoy.

Most People

Most people sing just one song

Happy (Chinese) New Year

Quote for today

Sunday Funnies

The Secret Crown by Chris Kuzneski

R.I.P Dorothy Barton

R.I.P. Etta James

Found For Friday

Friends of the Des Moines Consistory - 1/19/12

Des Moines York Rite Installations

On Strike

Today, we are striking against censorship.

Join the largest online protest in history: tell Congress to stop this bill now!

The Remember Song

Winton Marsalis on Martin Luther King, Jr.

Lunch with Ginny

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Is there anything more contagious than laughter?

Breakfast Sunday

Sunday Funnies

Quote of the Day

Found For Friday

A customer at the local grocery store marveled at the proprietor’s quick wit and intelligence.

“Tell me, what makes you so smart?” he asked the owner.

“You’re smarter already.”

A clergyman was walking down a country lane one warm summer day and encountered a young farmer struggling to load hay back onto a cart after it had fallen off.

Hachi: A Dog's Tale

This 'n That

Ithaca

Dancin' The Slow Dance

Snowy Owl - Photos by Bob Kelly

Specialis Procer Lodge - Installation of 2012 officers.

Tracks from Jack Frost - Photos by Bob Kelly

On the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, 2011

Sunday Funnies

My Political Compass

The Political Compass

Economic Left/Right: -5.75Social Libertarian/Authoritarian: -6.72

Look What I Found

Found For Friday

Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her excitement - not even her parent's nasty divorce.

Her mother had found the PERFECT dress to wear, and would be the best-dressed mother-of-the-bride ever!

A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new, young wife had bought the exact same dress as her mother!

Jennifer asked her father's new young wife to exchange it, but she refused. "Absolutely not! I look like a million bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it," she replied.

Jennifer told her mother who graciously said, "Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your special day."

A few days later, they went shopping, and did find another gorgeous dress for her mother.

When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, "Aren't you going to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where you could wear it."

Her mother just smiled and replied, "Of course I do, dear... I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner the night BEFORE the wedding."

A cop was on his horse waiting to cross the street, when a little girl On her new shiny bike stopped beside him.

'Nice bike,' the cop said. 'Did Santa bring it to you?'

'Yes Sir,' the little girl said, 'he sure did!'

The little girl looked up at the cop and said: 'Next year tell Santa; The dick goes underneath the horse, not on top'!!!

A lady goes to the bar on a cruise ship and orders a Scotch with two drops of water. As the bartender gives her the drink she says, 'I'm on this cruise to celebrate my 80th birthday and it's today....'

The bartender says, 'Well, since it's your birthday, I'll buy you a drink. In fact, this one is on me.'

The old woman replies, 'Sonny, when you're my age, you've learned how to hold your liquor. Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue.'

I was in bed with a blind girl last night and she said that I had the

biggest penis she had ever laid her hands on. I said "You're pulling

my leg."

Economic Left/Right: -5.75
Social Libertarian/Authoritarian: -6.72