Sunday, March 16, 2008
Rage-inducing lemon meringue!!!
It's like holding a bomb!
Seven egg white meringue! Towering! Seven egg whites, count 'em! Good lord, it's probably illegal in Idaho. Jimbo is lucky that it didn't come alive and start it's own blog! Possible titles, "Defying Meringue-icity" or "Lemon Meringue Tales" or maybe "Awesome, Dude!" but the last one is probably already taken.
Can you tell I'm been eating malted milk balls?!!!
It's like holding a bomb!
Seven egg white meringue! Towering! Seven egg whites, count 'em! Good lord, it's probably illegal in Idaho. Jimbo is lucky that it didn't come alive and start it's own blog! Possible titles, "Defying Meringue-icity" or "Lemon Meringue Tales" or maybe "Awesome, Dude!" but the last one is probably already taken.
Can you tell I'm been eating malted milk balls?!!!
How to make Puff mad.
Outside Kitty poses.
Seeing that human feeding Outside Kitty and then taking a picture with him. Meanwhile, Puff is meowing very angrily through the screen door.
Jimbo is here, we went out to the Venture Inn and had a nice time chatting the leather men up. He's sleeping in and in a few minutes I'm making potato salad and 4-bean salad and frosting and maybe an angelfood cake (because I managed to buy too many eggs).
Non-Denominational Boiled Egg Decorating and Backyard Egg Hunt Party pictures later today.
Outside Kitty poses.
Seeing that human feeding Outside Kitty and then taking a picture with him. Meanwhile, Puff is meowing very angrily through the screen door.
Jimbo is here, we went out to the Venture Inn and had a nice time chatting the leather men up. He's sleeping in and in a few minutes I'm making potato salad and 4-bean salad and frosting and maybe an angelfood cake (because I managed to buy too many eggs).
Non-Denominational Boiled Egg Decorating and Backyard Egg Hunt Party pictures later today.
Friday, March 14, 2008
A decision has been made. Chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. Jimbo also asked for a lemon meringue pie and I swear, it will have the largest, fluffiest meringue pie ever! Huge! Awe-inspiring and rage-inducing!
It is a good thing my mother isn't here because I'd have two or three little Chihuahuas running around the house. Alright, I just don't know about the crazy news lately. People with 800 dogs in a triple-wide and a woman growing a toilet seat and crazy Geraldine running her mouth at a bazillion miles an hour. Crazy!
Those little critters would just get in the way Sunday when I have my annual Non-Denominational Egg Decorating and Backyard Egg Hunt! I hope nobody gets maimed this year!
It is a good thing my mother isn't here because I'd have two or three little Chihuahuas running around the house. Alright, I just don't know about the crazy news lately. People with 800 dogs in a triple-wide and a woman growing a toilet seat and crazy Geraldine running her mouth at a bazillion miles an hour. Crazy!
Those little critters would just get in the way Sunday when I have my annual Non-Denominational Egg Decorating and Backyard Egg Hunt! I hope nobody gets maimed this year!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
1970.
First grade.
Mrs. Gray had us draw a picture of ourselves as adults, "What you want to be when you grow up," she said. I drew a scientist with a magnifying glass.
Today someone asked my opinion, "You're a scientist, what do you think about this?" he said. I almost laughed because of that Recent Incident.
I still have the little pug nose (thanks Mummy!). I wish I had a plaid shirt like that. They had good boys' fashions back in the early 1970s. Our pants always stayed up and we often wore clip-on ties to class, carefully removing them for recess. I also remember that blowing milk was considered a very naughty thing to do. I wonder what Mrs. Gray would think about me now. She was certainly a mean old thing, but I suppose thirty years of first graders will do that to anybody.
First grade.
Mrs. Gray had us draw a picture of ourselves as adults, "What you want to be when you grow up," she said. I drew a scientist with a magnifying glass.
Today someone asked my opinion, "You're a scientist, what do you think about this?" he said. I almost laughed because of that Recent Incident.
I still have the little pug nose (thanks Mummy!). I wish I had a plaid shirt like that. They had good boys' fashions back in the early 1970s. Our pants always stayed up and we often wore clip-on ties to class, carefully removing them for recess. I also remember that blowing milk was considered a very naughty thing to do. I wonder what Mrs. Gray would think about me now. She was certainly a mean old thing, but I suppose thirty years of first graders will do that to anybody.
1907.
Byron, David, and Harold.
David only has a few months to live. My grandfather is Harold, with the long hair. I imagine that when he looked at this picture later in life it was with a mixture of embarassment and sadness.
Byron, David, and Harold.
David only has a few months to live. My grandfather is Harold, with the long hair. I imagine that when he looked at this picture later in life it was with a mixture of embarassment and sadness.
Monday, March 10, 2008
The Big Question.
What is more important- that the Governor of New York (may have) fucked a prostitute or that five United States soldiers died in Iraq today?
This is why I feel so alienated by the news media.
I happened to catch CNN at the airport in January and was horrified at the sheer stupidity of the shit thrown at the audience. Pretty talking heads screeching over and over again about the latest blonde woman kidnapped/missing/murdered while boring, unphotogenic stories, like the massacre of people in Darfu or Iraq gets a little line along the bottom of the screen because you don't want to upset sensible peoples' sensibilities by showing what happens when you throw a metal scrap at human flesh at a couple hundred miles an hour.
Yes, it is disappointing that Mr. Spitzer chatted up a hooker while he was in DC. But is anyone surprised? Men are pigs, they often think with their genitals. How many of the reporters and anchor people excitedly relaying this garbage to us are pure and untainted. And if there are pure and untainted, why? I'm immediately suspicious of people who claim moral superiority over others. People have instincts that sometimes (often) drive them to do socially prescribed things. Goodness knows, I've probably done some things I shouldn't have.
What is more important- that the Governor of New York (may have) fucked a prostitute or that five United States soldiers died in Iraq today?
This is why I feel so alienated by the news media.
I happened to catch CNN at the airport in January and was horrified at the sheer stupidity of the shit thrown at the audience. Pretty talking heads screeching over and over again about the latest blonde woman kidnapped/missing/murdered while boring, unphotogenic stories, like the massacre of people in Darfu or Iraq gets a little line along the bottom of the screen because you don't want to upset sensible peoples' sensibilities by showing what happens when you throw a metal scrap at human flesh at a couple hundred miles an hour.
Yes, it is disappointing that Mr. Spitzer chatted up a hooker while he was in DC. But is anyone surprised? Men are pigs, they often think with their genitals. How many of the reporters and anchor people excitedly relaying this garbage to us are pure and untainted. And if there are pure and untainted, why? I'm immediately suspicious of people who claim moral superiority over others. People have instincts that sometimes (often) drive them to do socially prescribed things. Goodness knows, I've probably done some things I shouldn't have.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Fu manchu Sunday.
Heading down to visit with Cobban and Ray. Last Thursday I had dinner with Brian and a beer with John and his bf Jason. I feel like a socialite or a debutante or something similar.
Heading down to visit with Cobban and Ray. Last Thursday I had dinner with Brian and a beer with John and his bf Jason. I feel like a socialite or a debutante or something similar.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Jimbo's coming in a week. What kind of dessert should I make?
A). Yellow cake with chocolate frosting.
B). Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.
C). Angelfood cake with lemon curd.
D). Coconut cake with coconut cream cheese frosting.
Vote in the comment section, and help make history.
A). Yellow cake with chocolate frosting.
B). Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.
C). Angelfood cake with lemon curd.
D). Coconut cake with coconut cream cheese frosting.
Vote in the comment section, and help make history.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Calm moment.
Look at the pretty poppies. They smell nice. Pretty colors. Nice. Calming. Oh! Birds are singing too, but you can't hear it. Everything is nice outside. Pretty poppies.
Look at the pretty poppies. They smell nice. Pretty colors. Nice. Calming. Oh! Birds are singing too, but you can't hear it. Everything is nice outside. Pretty poppies.
I dread John McCain becoming the president. I don't have any respect for the man, he's my United States Senator and he fell off his pedastal over the last couple of years. War-mongerer, panderer, suck-up to the Bush conservatives.
The chances are very slim that Hillary Clinton can beat John McCain. He's branded as a war hero, a maverick, a straight talker. A lot of that is bullshit, but there are a lot of voters who want a war hero in a time of "war." Speaking of which, exactly who are we at war with? I thought the Iraqi government was our ally?
Hillary Clinton is branded as the wife of Bill Clinton by many, many people. Many of these people hate her. My own mother can't stand her for reasons she cannot explain.
If a Republican becomes president our country is fucked. Endless war. War with Iran. Poor people can just go fuck themselves. Gay people, especially, are fucked and not in a good way. McCain will reward his base by putting very conservative people in the Supreme Court. You can wave goodbye to whatever civil rights straight folks might throw at us gays.
So this is what I have been wondering. Do people who support Clinton honestly, realistically think she can be elected? It seems completely impossible to me.
The chances are very slim that Hillary Clinton can beat John McCain. He's branded as a war hero, a maverick, a straight talker. A lot of that is bullshit, but there are a lot of voters who want a war hero in a time of "war." Speaking of which, exactly who are we at war with? I thought the Iraqi government was our ally?
Hillary Clinton is branded as the wife of Bill Clinton by many, many people. Many of these people hate her. My own mother can't stand her for reasons she cannot explain.
If a Republican becomes president our country is fucked. Endless war. War with Iran. Poor people can just go fuck themselves. Gay people, especially, are fucked and not in a good way. McCain will reward his base by putting very conservative people in the Supreme Court. You can wave goodbye to whatever civil rights straight folks might throw at us gays.
So this is what I have been wondering. Do people who support Clinton honestly, realistically think she can be elected? It seems completely impossible to me.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Spring time. The first daffofil has bloomed. I have tulips and irises poking up too.
Daffodil.
Today's task- decorate some cookies created with Grandma F.'s cutters.
They didn't come out as well as I hoped, but are still cute.
Daffodil.
Today's task- decorate some cookies created with Grandma F.'s cutters.
They didn't come out as well as I hoped, but are still cute.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Rob asked how Mama Cat is doing. I'm still grinding up pills, mixing with milk, and squirting it in her mouth twice a day. She hates, hates, hates that. Also the eye drops. Sometimes she cries out because the pills are nasty.
Her eyes were almost back to normal and then it started again. The animal opthamalogist doesn't know why it is happening. Every test possible except for bone marrow (for cancer) was done. If she has cancer I won't do the chemo thing- I heard what happened to my co-workers cats and Mama Cat doesn't need that.
She can maneuver around really well. Once in a while in the middle of the night she gets frustrated and cries out and I go find her and put her in bed with me. She likes to sleep on my chest and will lie there and purr quietly. I wish she wasn't going through this, but at least she's getting the best care possible.
Her eyes were almost back to normal and then it started again. The animal opthamalogist doesn't know why it is happening. Every test possible except for bone marrow (for cancer) was done. If she has cancer I won't do the chemo thing- I heard what happened to my co-workers cats and Mama Cat doesn't need that.
She can maneuver around really well. Once in a while in the middle of the night she gets frustrated and cries out and I go find her and put her in bed with me. She likes to sleep on my chest and will lie there and purr quietly. I wish she wasn't going through this, but at least she's getting the best care possible.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Post 1523. A few weeks ago I sent Moby an email alerting him that someone in Tucson was using his roommate's pic on a CraigsList advert. Moby emailed me back to say that he got the message while he and his roommate were eating dinner, they had a laugh about it. A while ago, I sent another blogger an email to tell him that his pics were being used on an online profile site. Brian and I were chatting late last night and he mentioned that he's seen pictures he's taken used on someone's personal ad too.
Really, this isn't all that funny.
If you are going to steal pictures of someone off the internet and claim that they are you, the smart thing is to pick pictures of a nobody. Don't use those of porn stars, well known celebrities, authors, bloggers, bloggers' roommates, bloggers' mothers, and bloggers' mothers' hairdresser's first cousin twice removed from Romania.
Actually the smart thing is to not steal pictures of anybodies or nobodies. Don't use other pictures in place of your own. It is stupid. It is deceitful. It makes all your claims of being truthful vanish instantly. You have the option of 1). using your own picture, 2). not using a picture at all, or 3). using someone else's picture. Numbers 1 and 2 are acceptable. Number 3, that's a mega no-no.
In conclusion, that is my opinion on the topic.
Yes, it's me.
Really, this isn't all that funny.
If you are going to steal pictures of someone off the internet and claim that they are you, the smart thing is to pick pictures of a nobody. Don't use those of porn stars, well known celebrities, authors, bloggers, bloggers' roommates, bloggers' mothers, and bloggers' mothers' hairdresser's first cousin twice removed from Romania.
Actually the smart thing is to not steal pictures of anybodies or nobodies. Don't use other pictures in place of your own. It is stupid. It is deceitful. It makes all your claims of being truthful vanish instantly. You have the option of 1). using your own picture, 2). not using a picture at all, or 3). using someone else's picture. Numbers 1 and 2 are acceptable. Number 3, that's a mega no-no.
In conclusion, that is my opinion on the topic.
Yes, it's me.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Leap year .2. A morning spent at the Saturn dealership getting a new sensor placed in the car so I can pass an emissions test. I wandered around the lot and came to the concluson that all of the new Saturns are either unattractive or too expensive or both. So I guess I will be driving around the 99 Saturn for a while longer.
Work going well, the last few weeks have been very productive. I'm making good progress on finishing several reports. Science!
Best news- Jimbo is coming to visit in mid-March. We have an excellent time hanging out (even last year's mega-allergy mess was alright). This year we intend to go up to Phoenix and visit with Brian, John,and Darin. I'll also have a little party at my house and invite bloggers Cobban (and his bf Ray), Frank, Jim, Panchesco, (and maybe Lee?), and my regular kinda friends Brady, Patrick, Bob, and Steve will have to come over and play games. Will I make lemon meringue? Only time will tell.
In other, completely unrelated news, my goatee is getting very bushy. You could do residue analysis, I'm sure, and determine what I had for dinner last week. Will it stay, again, only time will tell.
Work going well, the last few weeks have been very productive. I'm making good progress on finishing several reports. Science!
Best news- Jimbo is coming to visit in mid-March. We have an excellent time hanging out (even last year's mega-allergy mess was alright). This year we intend to go up to Phoenix and visit with Brian, John,and Darin. I'll also have a little party at my house and invite bloggers Cobban (and his bf Ray), Frank, Jim, Panchesco, (and maybe Lee?), and my regular kinda friends Brady, Patrick, Bob, and Steve will have to come over and play games. Will I make lemon meringue? Only time will tell.
In other, completely unrelated news, my goatee is getting very bushy. You could do residue analysis, I'm sure, and determine what I had for dinner last week. Will it stay, again, only time will tell.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
I feel sorry for Mark Whitecotton. He is the blogger from the Baltimore, Maryland area who has created numerous blogs pretending to be different people. As 'Marc' he died a tragic death from cancer in 2006. As 'Josh,' 'Marc's' brother, he is undergoing chemo. As 'Steve' he is testifying at a murder trial. And so on. It's really pathetic.
He doesn't like me- I exposed his lies about the 11-year-old girl (he claimed she was murdered, she died a natural death) in August 2007 and ever since then he has posted on his various blogs lots of crap about me. You can search on technorati and find many of those entries. He claims I'm a liar, I'm jealous of him, I've threatened other bloggers with death- that's a good one! My favorite- I write too much about lemon meringue pies.
Now he's fixated on the fact that I'm a scientist. You can go read his pathetic entry here. Oh look, he stole a picture of me from the Arizona Daily Star website. I wonder if he asked permission. That's something he's always doing, stealing pictures. Not the best picture of me, I'll admit.
Mr. Whitecotton (as 52-year-old dying dentist 'Josh') says that you have to have a MD or a PhD degree to be a scientist. This was news to me. I asked my co-workers today if we were scientists and everybody agreed, archaeology is considered a social science. Anthropology, which archaeology is a sub-field of, is well known for borrowing from other sciences including biology, botany, geology, and anatomy. My training has included aspects of all of these fields, as well as historical research.
Let me bore you with some details. I have a master's degree from Arizona State University in Anthropology (1992). My thesis involved the analysis of 12,263 animal bones from a fur trading fort in North Dakota. I identified the bones to animal species where possible, skeletal element, portion and side, butchering methods, and a number of other attributes. Entered the data into the computer and conducted a number of statistical tests to identify statistically significant patterns, and then wrote and defended the thesis.
For my undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan (1986), I did an honor's thesis examining a prehistoric ossuary (a mass reburial of people, common in Michigan from about A.D. 1000-1600). The classwork I took allows me to identify portions of the human skeleton from small fragments, determine the sex and age of individuals, and identify pathological conditions such as arthritis, anemia, and healed fractures, all of which leave evidence on elements. I am frequently asked to excavate burials discovered in the Tucson area. I do this with skill and respect for the remains, often times I think about the person as I am uncovering their remains. That is perhaps the most unscientific thing about that aspect of my work, wondering what kind of lives those people led.
For my job of 15.5 years I have run a variety of archaeological projects. Many of these have been at complex sites with hundreds of features, often stretching back thousands of years. I have identified tens of thousands of artifacts and researched thousands of individuals for work. I have also given over 100 talks to the public and over a dozen at national scientific meetings, the most recent one in Albuquerque in January. The results of my archaeological and genealogical research has been published in dozens of reports. I have five books in the Library of Congress.
So yeah, I consider myself a scientist. It isn't something I boast about, no more than me saying I own a house or I have three cats. I've often thought that I would like my tombstone to read "Archaeologist, Genealogist, Homosexual" since these pretty much identify me.
I don't know I'm even bothering to write this.
I just feel sorry and somewhat repelled by this person. I don't understand the need to tell lies and call other bloggers names when they point out the truth and ask pointed questions (Why don't your pictures match? How can 'Marc' be dead when he is alive and living in Baltimore?). I look at his blogs the same way that I look at car accidents- fascinating, a bit weirded out, and sorry for everyone involved.
I guess the reason I'm mentioning this is that a few people on my blogroll link to a couple of Mark Whitecotton's blogs on their blogroll- "Smiley's Place" and "Defying Despondency." Perhaps they don't know that he uses my name in URLs and mentions my name and company name in tags, apparently trying bring search engines in and get me in trouble in some way. Ohmigod, so fucking lame.
Mark, maybe you need a big slice of lemon meringue pie. You know, it makes everybody feel better.
Later. I guess this big question is why would I bother making this stuff up? Such utter bullshit. The 300+ people who read my blog daily probably have a good sense of who I am. So readers, do you think I'm a liar?
He doesn't like me- I exposed his lies about the 11-year-old girl (he claimed she was murdered, she died a natural death) in August 2007 and ever since then he has posted on his various blogs lots of crap about me. You can search on technorati and find many of those entries. He claims I'm a liar, I'm jealous of him, I've threatened other bloggers with death- that's a good one! My favorite- I write too much about lemon meringue pies.
Now he's fixated on the fact that I'm a scientist. You can go read his pathetic entry here. Oh look, he stole a picture of me from the Arizona Daily Star website. I wonder if he asked permission. That's something he's always doing, stealing pictures. Not the best picture of me, I'll admit.
Mr. Whitecotton (as 52-year-old dying dentist 'Josh') says that you have to have a MD or a PhD degree to be a scientist. This was news to me. I asked my co-workers today if we were scientists and everybody agreed, archaeology is considered a social science. Anthropology, which archaeology is a sub-field of, is well known for borrowing from other sciences including biology, botany, geology, and anatomy. My training has included aspects of all of these fields, as well as historical research.
Let me bore you with some details. I have a master's degree from Arizona State University in Anthropology (1992). My thesis involved the analysis of 12,263 animal bones from a fur trading fort in North Dakota. I identified the bones to animal species where possible, skeletal element, portion and side, butchering methods, and a number of other attributes. Entered the data into the computer and conducted a number of statistical tests to identify statistically significant patterns, and then wrote and defended the thesis.
For my undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan (1986), I did an honor's thesis examining a prehistoric ossuary (a mass reburial of people, common in Michigan from about A.D. 1000-1600). The classwork I took allows me to identify portions of the human skeleton from small fragments, determine the sex and age of individuals, and identify pathological conditions such as arthritis, anemia, and healed fractures, all of which leave evidence on elements. I am frequently asked to excavate burials discovered in the Tucson area. I do this with skill and respect for the remains, often times I think about the person as I am uncovering their remains. That is perhaps the most unscientific thing about that aspect of my work, wondering what kind of lives those people led.
For my job of 15.5 years I have run a variety of archaeological projects. Many of these have been at complex sites with hundreds of features, often stretching back thousands of years. I have identified tens of thousands of artifacts and researched thousands of individuals for work. I have also given over 100 talks to the public and over a dozen at national scientific meetings, the most recent one in Albuquerque in January. The results of my archaeological and genealogical research has been published in dozens of reports. I have five books in the Library of Congress.
So yeah, I consider myself a scientist. It isn't something I boast about, no more than me saying I own a house or I have three cats. I've often thought that I would like my tombstone to read "Archaeologist, Genealogist, Homosexual" since these pretty much identify me.
I don't know I'm even bothering to write this.
I just feel sorry and somewhat repelled by this person. I don't understand the need to tell lies and call other bloggers names when they point out the truth and ask pointed questions (Why don't your pictures match? How can 'Marc' be dead when he is alive and living in Baltimore?). I look at his blogs the same way that I look at car accidents- fascinating, a bit weirded out, and sorry for everyone involved.
I guess the reason I'm mentioning this is that a few people on my blogroll link to a couple of Mark Whitecotton's blogs on their blogroll- "Smiley's Place" and "Defying Despondency." Perhaps they don't know that he uses my name in URLs and mentions my name and company name in tags, apparently trying bring search engines in and get me in trouble in some way. Ohmigod, so fucking lame.
Mark, maybe you need a big slice of lemon meringue pie. You know, it makes everybody feel better.
Later. I guess this big question is why would I bother making this stuff up? Such utter bullshit. The 300+ people who read my blog daily probably have a good sense of who I am. So readers, do you think I'm a liar?
I have been very disappointed in people lately. The current Cute Animal election is very important. Bunny and Squirrel are in a tight race for the Cutest nomination. The amount of animosity directed toward Squirrel by Bunny supporters has been an eye opener.
Erik (who is cuter than either Bunny or Squirrel) said "Besides, squirrels are just rats with fuzzy tails..." Stash said, "They're both technically vermin."
I know, I know, an endless entry about cute animals. But this has been on my mind for a couple of minutes and recently I have been shocked by some things I have seen.
Erik (who is cuter than either Bunny or Squirrel) said "Besides, squirrels are just rats with fuzzy tails..." Stash said, "They're both technically vermin."
I know, I know, an endless entry about cute animals. But this has been on my mind for a couple of minutes and recently I have been shocked by some things I have seen.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
It is like a zoo outside my window at work. Today I had house finches, mourning doves, a rabbit, and a pair of ground squirrels with enormous testicles (at least, I think that's what they are). At times when I was busy doing my work as a Research Archaeologist (that's what my business card says I do), I was peeking at the little critters eating bird seed.
Varmints.
And in homage to Mr. Chris Leavins,
Who is cuter?
Baby bunny.
OR
Boy squirrel.
Please vote in the comment section...
Varmints.
And in homage to Mr. Chris Leavins,
Who is cuter?
Baby bunny.
OR
Boy squirrel.
Please vote in the comment section...
When I was a kid and played Star Trek I always wanted to be Uhura. She had the funnest job and when they were thrown around she always got thrown around the most dramatically. Evidence that I was a big homo even as a child.
I'm watching a truly awful original episode "The Galileo Seven." Even Joey meows at me, letting me know she thinks this one was a stinker. I have to get up in the middle of the night because my back starts to ache every night between 3 and 4 AM. I have to sit uprigt for awhile and the pain subsides. I guess I'll be discussing this with my doctor at my next physical.
The only other complaint I have is that my eyes have been getting increasingly "old." I put on my reading glasses and take them off and I have a hard time focusing again. That is very irritating, especially since I paid so much money for the damn spectacles. Oh well, at least I only have a few gray chest hairs.
I'm watching a truly awful original episode "The Galileo Seven." Even Joey meows at me, letting me know she thinks this one was a stinker. I have to get up in the middle of the night because my back starts to ache every night between 3 and 4 AM. I have to sit uprigt for awhile and the pain subsides. I guess I'll be discussing this with my doctor at my next physical.
The only other complaint I have is that my eyes have been getting increasingly "old." I put on my reading glasses and take them off and I have a hard time focusing again. That is very irritating, especially since I paid so much money for the damn spectacles. Oh well, at least I only have a few gray chest hairs.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Today's dessert- angel food cake and lemon curd.
12 yolk lemon curd, 12 egg white angelfood cake.
A co-worker is raising chickens and gave another co-worker a dozen eggs that I ended up with. I picked six lemons from the tree and away I went.
The cake.
It always surprises me how easy it is to make both. The cake is light and fluffy and a little sticky. The curd is sweet and tart and fairly rich. They are excellent together.
12 yolk lemon curd, 12 egg white angelfood cake.
A co-worker is raising chickens and gave another co-worker a dozen eggs that I ended up with. I picked six lemons from the tree and away I went.
The cake.
It always surprises me how easy it is to make both. The cake is light and fluffy and a little sticky. The curd is sweet and tart and fairly rich. They are excellent together.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
I have been very disappointed in people lately. The current presidential election is extremely important. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are in a tight race for the Democratic nomination. The amount of animosity directed toward Obama by some Clinton supporters has been an eye opener.
I guess Clinton supporters automatically assumed they she had the nomination. Well, presidential campaigns involve many basic things including organization, get-out-the-vote, fund-raising, and good speaking and debating skills. Clinton supporters have been surprised at the gradually increasing popularity of Obama. He has shown that he is a better campaigner- runs an excellent organization, manages resources well, and inspires people who are interested in his message. Plus he has been able to raise a huge amount of money.
The response of some people has been to denigrate Obama supporters (mindless, crazy, sheep, religious followers) and Obama (inexperienced, won't promise the same things as Clinton, won't promise different things from Clinton, too bipartisan, wife not proud enough, supporter not well versed on his legislative accomplishments, copies speeches, and etc.). Many of their complaints are false or petty.
It seems likely that the reverse situation is happening, but in the blogs and comments I have read, the comments against Mrs. Clinton are based on reality while those against Obama often are not (e.g., comparing him to Hitler) and at times I wonder whether his racial background has something to do with it.
Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have very similar positions on most issues. Either could make a good president and would raise the image of the United States at home and abroad. I honestly have been impressed with Obama and not because of his speeches (I prefer to read background and position statements rather than listen to speeches and debates).
I like Hillary Clinton, but she is less electable against John McCain. Somewhere around 35 to 40 percent of the American population will not vote for her, there are many, many people who view Mrs. Clinton with distrust and anger, mostly for totally spurious and fictional reasons.
If Mrs. Clinton somehow gets the nomination, the likelihood of her getting elected is much, much less certain. I know many people who would vote for Obama, but who will not vote for Clinton. I am looking at this with a rational, unemotional viewpoint.
Whoever gets elected is in for an unpleasant time, with the economy getting worse and the mess in Iraq. But they also will be picking Supreme Court and other judges, and making basic decisions about civil rights, things that will effect most of the people who read this blog. This is why it is important for a Democrat to win above everything else.
I know, I know, an endless entry about politics. But this was been on my mind for a couple of weeks and recently I have been shocked by some things I have seen.
I guess Clinton supporters automatically assumed they she had the nomination. Well, presidential campaigns involve many basic things including organization, get-out-the-vote, fund-raising, and good speaking and debating skills. Clinton supporters have been surprised at the gradually increasing popularity of Obama. He has shown that he is a better campaigner- runs an excellent organization, manages resources well, and inspires people who are interested in his message. Plus he has been able to raise a huge amount of money.
The response of some people has been to denigrate Obama supporters (mindless, crazy, sheep, religious followers) and Obama (inexperienced, won't promise the same things as Clinton, won't promise different things from Clinton, too bipartisan, wife not proud enough, supporter not well versed on his legislative accomplishments, copies speeches, and etc.). Many of their complaints are false or petty.
It seems likely that the reverse situation is happening, but in the blogs and comments I have read, the comments against Mrs. Clinton are based on reality while those against Obama often are not (e.g., comparing him to Hitler) and at times I wonder whether his racial background has something to do with it.
Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have very similar positions on most issues. Either could make a good president and would raise the image of the United States at home and abroad. I honestly have been impressed with Obama and not because of his speeches (I prefer to read background and position statements rather than listen to speeches and debates).
I like Hillary Clinton, but she is less electable against John McCain. Somewhere around 35 to 40 percent of the American population will not vote for her, there are many, many people who view Mrs. Clinton with distrust and anger, mostly for totally spurious and fictional reasons.
If Mrs. Clinton somehow gets the nomination, the likelihood of her getting elected is much, much less certain. I know many people who would vote for Obama, but who will not vote for Clinton. I am looking at this with a rational, unemotional viewpoint.
Whoever gets elected is in for an unpleasant time, with the economy getting worse and the mess in Iraq. But they also will be picking Supreme Court and other judges, and making basic decisions about civil rights, things that will effect most of the people who read this blog. This is why it is important for a Democrat to win above everything else.
I know, I know, an endless entry about politics. But this was been on my mind for a couple of weeks and recently I have been shocked by some things I have seen.
Cathi Herrod is a nasty, nasty person.
Herrod.
Arizona voters rejected the anti-gay marriage amendment in 2006. Karl Rove came to Arizona couple of weeks ago and chatted with Timothy Bee, the Arizona State Senate President. Bee is running against Democrat Gabrielle Gifford in the upcoming congressional election. Soon afterwards, Bee introduced another anti-gay marriage amendment. Do you think there was a connection between Rove's visit? The State Senate and House voted to place it on the ballot.
Ms. Herrod is ecstatic. For the last 20 years she has wasted her pathetic life fighting against every single measure that would provide gays and lesbians equality in Arizona. She claims to be a Christian. Really, she seems more Old Testament than New.
Years from now Cathi Herrod will be a footnote in some history book. People like her don't show up on stamps (last time I checked, there aren't any stamps featuring the Ku Klux Klan). I hope she lives long enough to see gay marriage legalized in the United States. Miserable, nasty thing.
Herrod.
Arizona voters rejected the anti-gay marriage amendment in 2006. Karl Rove came to Arizona couple of weeks ago and chatted with Timothy Bee, the Arizona State Senate President. Bee is running against Democrat Gabrielle Gifford in the upcoming congressional election. Soon afterwards, Bee introduced another anti-gay marriage amendment. Do you think there was a connection between Rove's visit? The State Senate and House voted to place it on the ballot.
Ms. Herrod is ecstatic. For the last 20 years she has wasted her pathetic life fighting against every single measure that would provide gays and lesbians equality in Arizona. She claims to be a Christian. Really, she seems more Old Testament than New.
Years from now Cathi Herrod will be a footnote in some history book. People like her don't show up on stamps (last time I checked, there aren't any stamps featuring the Ku Klux Klan). I hope she lives long enough to see gay marriage legalized in the United States. Miserable, nasty thing.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Boldly go!
CBS has posted every episode of the original Star Trek series online for free viewing.
Also the first season of Hawaii 5-0. And McGyver. I am content.
CBS has posted every episode of the original Star Trek series online for free viewing.
Also the first season of Hawaii 5-0. And McGyver. I am content.
Report cards.
Kindergarten, Mrs. Harrison [wonderful person]:
"Shows thoughtfulness and fairness to others." and "It would strengthen Homer's arms and legs to take part in a short period of strenuous exercise each day."
First grade, Mrs. Gray [hit me with a pen because I could add in my head]:
"Homer has an enjoyable sense of humor. Good sport- can laugh at himself."
Second grade, Mrs. Maier [encouraged me to read]:
"Homer makes delightful books, beautiful pictures, and good stories."
Third grade, Mrs. Fitch [nice woman]:
"He only missed one word."[in spelling, it was studying]
Fourth grade, Mr. Panter [don't remember him at all]:
"Could be encouraged to participate more."
Fifth grade, Mrs. Donahue [our health book was from the 1930s]:
Arithmetic A-
Language A-
Reading B+
Science & Health A-
Social Studies A-
Spelling S
Writing B
Band A
And Sixth grade, Mrs. Drake [mean, spiteful woman]:
Arithmetic B
Language B+
Reading A-
Social Studies B+
Spelling B+
Writing C+
Citizenship A
Kindergarten, Mrs. Harrison [wonderful person]:
"Shows thoughtfulness and fairness to others." and "It would strengthen Homer's arms and legs to take part in a short period of strenuous exercise each day."
First grade, Mrs. Gray [hit me with a pen because I could add in my head]:
"Homer has an enjoyable sense of humor. Good sport- can laugh at himself."
Second grade, Mrs. Maier [encouraged me to read]:
"Homer makes delightful books, beautiful pictures, and good stories."
Third grade, Mrs. Fitch [nice woman]:
"He only missed one word."[in spelling, it was studying]
Fourth grade, Mr. Panter [don't remember him at all]:
"Could be encouraged to participate more."
Fifth grade, Mrs. Donahue [our health book was from the 1930s]:
Arithmetic A-
Language A-
Reading B+
Science & Health A-
Social Studies A-
Spelling S
Writing B
Band A
And Sixth grade, Mrs. Drake [mean, spiteful woman]:
Arithmetic B
Language B+
Reading A-
Social Studies B+
Spelling B+
Writing C+
Citizenship A
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
My great grandmother Grace.
Grace (1875-1929).
She died before my grandfather was married so she never met her four grandchildren. From stomach cancer- she'd had a hard life raising her three young children after her husband unexpectedly died from peritonitis in 1907. Later she married an older cousin, probably hoping things would get better.
She is young and beautiful in all of the pictures I have of her.
Grace (1875-1929).
She died before my grandfather was married so she never met her four grandchildren. From stomach cancer- she'd had a hard life raising her three young children after her husband unexpectedly died from peritonitis in 1907. Later she married an older cousin, probably hoping things would get better.
She is young and beautiful in all of the pictures I have of her.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Grandma F., August 1968.
After Grandma died in January 1998, I went through her house searching for color slides. My mother, for who knows why, had thrown away the slides we had once had. "We don't have a projector" she had said when I asked her where they were. She also threw out almost all of the negatives. Sometimes you just want to say mean things.
So anyways, I found a handful of slides and took them, since I fully expected them to be thrown away too. Today our receptionist at work scanned them for me. The vivid color on some of them is surprising.
Grandma is 58 in this picture, standing in her garden at her house in Traverse City. I'm certain Grandpa F. took the slide, he was almost always behind the camera. That garden still produced vegetables and flowers when I was a kid. I well remember helping weed.
It's strange to think that other people live in Grandma's house and that I can never go back there, or even if I did it wouldn't be the same.
After Grandma died in January 1998, I went through her house searching for color slides. My mother, for who knows why, had thrown away the slides we had once had. "We don't have a projector" she had said when I asked her where they were. She also threw out almost all of the negatives. Sometimes you just want to say mean things.
So anyways, I found a handful of slides and took them, since I fully expected them to be thrown away too. Today our receptionist at work scanned them for me. The vivid color on some of them is surprising.
Grandma is 58 in this picture, standing in her garden at her house in Traverse City. I'm certain Grandpa F. took the slide, he was almost always behind the camera. That garden still produced vegetables and flowers when I was a kid. I well remember helping weed.
It's strange to think that other people live in Grandma's house and that I can never go back there, or even if I did it wouldn't be the same.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
In case you are wondering, it smells like crap at the sewage plant.
Duck.
A leisurely stroll at the Sweetwater Wetlands was perhaps the most interesting part of the day.
Northern shovelers.
There were thousands of Northern Shoveler ducks there. I also saw a roadrunner, cinnamon teal, a hummingbird, a wading bird that had the birders all orgasmic, and lots of cute mud turtles.
Mud turtle.
I wish I had a better camera with a close up lens. But I don't (thanks Tax Refund Cat!).
Duck.
A leisurely stroll at the Sweetwater Wetlands was perhaps the most interesting part of the day.
Northern shovelers.
There were thousands of Northern Shoveler ducks there. I also saw a roadrunner, cinnamon teal, a hummingbird, a wading bird that had the birders all orgasmic, and lots of cute mud turtles.
Mud turtle.
I wish I had a better camera with a close up lens. But I don't (thanks Tax Refund Cat!).
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Scream Puff.
Hates the camera.
Mama Cat (AKA Tax Refund Cat) does not like her medicines. The eye drops are the easiest. The oral antibiotic seems to go alright, although she usually reaches up trying to swat the syringe out of my hand. The third is the worst- I grind up pieces of two different pills, mix them with a little milk, and suck that up into a bigger syringe. This morning she spit most of it out onto me. Nice. The blood clot in one eye is slowly dissolving. The vision in her other eye comes and goes- today is a good day. The animal opthamologist has done every test possible and is unable to determine a cause.
The orange tomcat who lives outside has taken to peeing on my back door. My house already has that end-of-winter litter box odor. The addition of cat urine under the kitchen door has made it particularly fetid. So I mopped the floors, picking a few lemons off the tree and adding the juice to the water. I washed all the rugs and covers. I squirted citrus smelling stuff on the curtains and ceiling fan. I have some sliced up lemons and oranges sitting around. Hopefully the house will be presentable again.
Hates the camera.
Mama Cat (AKA Tax Refund Cat) does not like her medicines. The eye drops are the easiest. The oral antibiotic seems to go alright, although she usually reaches up trying to swat the syringe out of my hand. The third is the worst- I grind up pieces of two different pills, mix them with a little milk, and suck that up into a bigger syringe. This morning she spit most of it out onto me. Nice. The blood clot in one eye is slowly dissolving. The vision in her other eye comes and goes- today is a good day. The animal opthamologist has done every test possible and is unable to determine a cause.
The orange tomcat who lives outside has taken to peeing on my back door. My house already has that end-of-winter litter box odor. The addition of cat urine under the kitchen door has made it particularly fetid. So I mopped the floors, picking a few lemons off the tree and adding the juice to the water. I washed all the rugs and covers. I squirted citrus smelling stuff on the curtains and ceiling fan. I have some sliced up lemons and oranges sitting around. Hopefully the house will be presentable again.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Only a thin pane of glass saved me from the Killer Ground Squirrel.
Hungry after hibernation, everyone in Arizona knows better than to get close to one of these little varmints. They are wicked things, they'll lie to you, steal from you, sell your cats to a lipstick company. I looked up and it was examining me, probably wondering how much my kidneys would go for.
Lucky for that pane of glass.
Hungry after hibernation, everyone in Arizona knows better than to get close to one of these little varmints. They are wicked things, they'll lie to you, steal from you, sell your cats to a lipstick company. I looked up and it was examining me, probably wondering how much my kidneys would go for.
Lucky for that pane of glass.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
It is Spring time in Arizona. Outside my office window little sparrows with red heads (and you know how much I like redheads) jump around eating the bird seed I left out for them. Yesterday I saw the first ground squirrel and the first gecko. The orange tree is getting ready to blossom.
Little red finch.
Tomorrow is the worst holiday ever invented. For single people. Why isn't there a similar holiday for us? Hallmark needs to get their act together- more cards to sell!
Little red finch.
Tomorrow is the worst holiday ever invented. For single people. Why isn't there a similar holiday for us? Hallmark needs to get their act together- more cards to sell!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Banana Cream Pie!!! I declare this the year of pudding-filled pies.
Banana cream pie, 4 egg meringue.
I also declare this the year of:
- porn-staches. Moustaches are going to be big this year.
- cut off jean shorts. Let's revisit this intriguing fashion trend of the 70s.
- Helen Keller-Mama Cat jokes: How did Mama Cat burn her paws? Trying to read the waffle iron!
Banana cream pie, 4 egg meringue.
I also declare this the year of:
- porn-staches. Moustaches are going to be big this year.
- cut off jean shorts. Let's revisit this intriguing fashion trend of the 70s.
- Helen Keller-Mama Cat jokes: How did Mama Cat burn her paws? Trying to read the waffle iron!
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Mama Cat update. This morning I was lying in bed and Mama Cat climbed off of me and over the bed to the window sill. I wondered how she was able to do that so easily. Later, as I was getting ready to give her medicine, I realized her left eye was cleared up and she is regaining her vision.
Poor Mama Cat hates her medicine. She makes faces and tries to scratch me. I have to grind the tiny pill into powder and wipe that across her tongue. I'm sure she is saying cat swear words at me.
She goes back to the vet tomorrow. Her right eye still looks terrible (blood red) but perhaps that will also get better.
Poor Mama Cat hates her medicine. She makes faces and tries to scratch me. I have to grind the tiny pill into powder and wipe that across her tongue. I'm sure she is saying cat swear words at me.
She goes back to the vet tomorrow. Her right eye still looks terrible (blood red) but perhaps that will also get better.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Post 1502. Words I hate:
-- "kudos" Often used in phrases like, "Kudos to XXXX for XXXX." Isn't this the name of a lame candy bar? It sounds really Greek to me. And although Greek men are really, really hot, they use a different alphabet that includes triangles for letters and when I was in Greece it took me forever to figure out what words were supposed to be in good American English.
-- "wombat" That poor animal is stuck with the stupidest sounding name ever. Luckily, wombats mostly live in Australia, like Sandy, so I don't have to see them regularly and have that strange name pop up in my head. Instead I get to see normal animals like javelina and gila monsters.
-- "scrotum" Let's make an interesting part of the male anatomy sound disgusting. In fact, most interesting parts of the male anatomy have disgusting scientific sounding names. Testicles. Glans. Etc.
-- "caucus" Another Greek-sounding word. Yes, I know they invented democracy and algebra, but this is America!!! I like the word "primary" much better.
There are many other words that I think should be banned from the liberal media so that I don't have to hear them. What ones do you dislike?
-- "kudos" Often used in phrases like, "Kudos to XXXX for XXXX." Isn't this the name of a lame candy bar? It sounds really Greek to me. And although Greek men are really, really hot, they use a different alphabet that includes triangles for letters and when I was in Greece it took me forever to figure out what words were supposed to be in good American English.
-- "wombat" That poor animal is stuck with the stupidest sounding name ever. Luckily, wombats mostly live in Australia, like Sandy, so I don't have to see them regularly and have that strange name pop up in my head. Instead I get to see normal animals like javelina and gila monsters.
-- "scrotum" Let's make an interesting part of the male anatomy sound disgusting. In fact, most interesting parts of the male anatomy have disgusting scientific sounding names. Testicles. Glans. Etc.
-- "caucus" Another Greek-sounding word. Yes, I know they invented democracy and algebra, but this is America!!! I like the word "primary" much better.
There are many other words that I think should be banned from the liberal media so that I don't have to hear them. What ones do you dislike?
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
The pollster wanted to hear my opinion on whether I was interested in helping the liberal Democrats lose the house this year. Some Congressman's spiel included the horrors of gay marriage. Afterward a woman came on the line, "Mr. T----" she began to say.
I didn't give her a moment to speak. "I'm a gay man. I found your phone call to be very offensive. Take me off your goddamn list." Click.
In retrospect I should have chatted the woman up and wasted their money. But really, who needs to listen to such shit?
I didn't give her a moment to speak. "I'm a gay man. I found your phone call to be very offensive. Take me off your goddamn list." Click.
In retrospect I should have chatted the woman up and wasted their money. But really, who needs to listen to such shit?
A canvasser tried to get Puff and Joey to vote for John McCain in today's primary. They meowed at him, "We think he belongs in the litter box!"
Puff, Joey, and a stray.
Puff, Joey, and a stray.
Monday, February 04, 2008
It is a rainy day in Tucson. I was sitting at my desk and there were a few moments of hail. A cute bird, whose head was covered with red feathers, perched on the tree outside my office window (it also had red feathers on its tummy).
Cute red bird. Later: Jimbo has identified the bird as a Vermillion Flycatcher (it's also a male).
At home I watched Mama Cat maneuver around the house. She still has partial vision in her right eye. I wanted to assure people that everything that can be done for her is being done. Last Friday the vet told me that something was wrong with the blood vessels in her left eye. I had her blood pressure taken (normal), blood and urine tests (slightly elevated protein in her urine, which is a sign that blood is being resorbed from her eye), and a glaucoma test done (the left high has elevated blood pressure, she is on a medicine to reduce that). She's going back to the vet again, although I'm not sure if anything else can be done. If the bleeding stops the blood will be resorbed and her eyesight will come back. The strange thing is my father had the same exact condition, although in his case it was from diabetes, and he ended up going blind at the end of his life.
Cute red bird. Later: Jimbo has identified the bird as a Vermillion Flycatcher (it's also a male).
At home I watched Mama Cat maneuver around the house. She still has partial vision in her right eye. I wanted to assure people that everything that can be done for her is being done. Last Friday the vet told me that something was wrong with the blood vessels in her left eye. I had her blood pressure taken (normal), blood and urine tests (slightly elevated protein in her urine, which is a sign that blood is being resorbed from her eye), and a glaucoma test done (the left high has elevated blood pressure, she is on a medicine to reduce that). She's going back to the vet again, although I'm not sure if anything else can be done. If the bleeding stops the blood will be resorbed and her eyesight will come back. The strange thing is my father had the same exact condition, although in his case it was from diabetes, and he ended up going blind at the end of his life.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
To keep my mind busy I made a yellow cake with chocolate ganache frosting.
I should have trimmed the cake to make it more symetrical, but really, who notices?
A rare three-posts-in-one-day day
I should have trimmed the cake to make it more symetrical, but really, who notices?
A rare three-posts-in-one-day day
I voted for Barack Obama for the upcoming Arizona primary on Tuesday. In our state we can vote early and I was downtown at the courthouse last week (doing research, no, I wasn't on trial) and so I went and voted.
I like the guy. He's smart, articulate, has worked hard for poor and disenfranchised people. He's also my seventh cousin, but that doesn't have a lot to do with my decision. He also doesn't come with the baggage others are carrying. So that's it.
I like the guy. He's smart, articulate, has worked hard for poor and disenfranchised people. He's also my seventh cousin, but that doesn't have a lot to do with my decision. He also doesn't come with the baggage others are carrying. So that's it.
Something is wrong with Mama Cat. Last week she went to see the vet because she had a cold and a discharge from her right eye. That night she had a nose bleed. On Friday morning I discovered her right eye was filled with blood. Another visit to the vet where they couldn't find anything wrong. Today her left eye has started to fill with blood and she's obviously going blind.
Mama Cat, two weeks ago.
It breaks my heart.
Mama Cat, two weeks ago.
It breaks my heart.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Vintage beefcake.
Yale Varsity line-up, circa 1910s. [click image for full size]
The Library of Congress is putting photos on the Flickr website and I came across this one. I like the guy with the moustache the best.
Yale Varsity line-up, circa 1910s. [click image for full size]
The Library of Congress is putting photos on the Flickr website and I came across this one. I like the guy with the moustache the best.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Tombstone. Spent yesterday down in Tombstone- I'll be doing a small project around the courthouse.
Courthouse, built in 1882.
Very well known place. The town is doing a horrible job maintaining its historical character. When you walk down the street, with men dressed up as cowboys, and there are shows selling dragons and crystal balls, that kinda ruins the effect.
Courthouse, built in 1882.
Very well known place. The town is doing a horrible job maintaining its historical character. When you walk down the street, with men dressed up as cowboys, and there are shows selling dragons and crystal balls, that kinda ruins the effect.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Taxes done. Nice refund coming, I'm going to put it in that mysterious entity known as a savings account.
Things I could spend money on:
- downpayment on a new car
- plumber to fix occasional leak in bathroom
- bathtub refinishing
- plane tickets to SF and DC/NYC
- gym membership
- drugs and prostitutes
- behave myself and leave it in savings
I really should do the last.
Things I could spend money on:
- downpayment on a new car
- plumber to fix occasional leak in bathroom
- bathtub refinishing
- plane tickets to SF and DC/NYC
- gym membership
- drugs and prostitutes
- behave myself and leave it in savings
I really should do the last.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
I can feel it happening- my annual Anti-Man mood. Maybe it is from looking through profiles and seeing ridiculous things like: "only into younger," "No [racial classification here]," or my current favorite- "not really into the gay scene." The latter from someone who posed in his pictures wearing a leather harness. Last time I checked, none of my straight male friends owned a harness.
And then there are the pantie-wearing guys. Good lord, there's a lot of them in Tucson. I make sure I tell Brian whenever I see their profiles, except there are so many that Craigslist has a whole 't4M' page.
I find myself looking at the furniture and accessories in the backgrounds, judging people by their lamps or crappy posters or by how messy their place is (not that I have anything against messy places, since mine often matches that criterion).
So, yeah, I think I'll hibernate for a little while.
And then there are the pantie-wearing guys. Good lord, there's a lot of them in Tucson. I make sure I tell Brian whenever I see their profiles, except there are so many that Craigslist has a whole 't4M' page.
I find myself looking at the furniture and accessories in the backgrounds, judging people by their lamps or crappy posters or by how messy their place is (not that I have anything against messy places, since mine often matches that criterion).
So, yeah, I think I'll hibernate for a little while.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Mama Cat behaved herself at the vet. She didn't even cry when they stuck the thermometer in. She has an eye infection and an upper respiratory infection. Steroids and antibiotics. I was very relieved to have an answer but when I got home tonight she has a runny nose and is sneezing up blood. My new comforter is washing in cold water. [pause] I just checked and it is only coming out of one nostril and she is acting much better than she was yesterday. So I guess I'll only fret some.
In other news, I never win anything. Except a fruit basket once. Until now. Joe.My.God has Swag Tuesday, in which he hands out exciting homosexual-like prizes. And I won a container of Boy Butter. So much better than a fruit basket.
In other news, I never win anything. Except a fruit basket once. Until now. Joe.My.God has Swag Tuesday, in which he hands out exciting homosexual-like prizes. And I won a container of Boy Butter. So much better than a fruit basket.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
It was supposed to be "Cute with Mama Cat" but she has caught something and isn't feeling too good at the moment. She may have to go see the vet tomorrow, something I don't think she will like one bit.
The Arizona primary is in 8 days or so. I'm voting for Barack Obama- I really like the guy. If Hillary Clinton wins the nomination, I'll vote for her in November. But really I'd like a change in who is running the country.
Politics and religion- you are not supposed to discuss those two things in polite company. No one has ever acused be of having good manners.
The Arizona primary is in 8 days or so. I'm voting for Barack Obama- I really like the guy. If Hillary Clinton wins the nomination, I'll vote for her in November. But really I'd like a change in who is running the country.
Politics and religion- you are not supposed to discuss those two things in polite company. No one has ever acused be of having good manners.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Cute with Puff.
Puff.
Last night I spent two hours pulling together stuff for tax purposes. I'm waiting for one more piece of paper and then that chore will be done for the year.
I'll be credit card debt-free in the next couple of weeks. My home loan is disappearing at an almost dizzying rate. The interest on my home equity loan is dropping (thanks shitty economy!). I'm going to put my tax refund in my savings account and behave myself. 2008 will be the year my personal finances improve.
Considering how good I've been at stuffing money into my 401K, I'm ready for the next step in life- becoming a SugarDaddy.
Taking applications immediately...
Puff.
Last night I spent two hours pulling together stuff for tax purposes. I'm waiting for one more piece of paper and then that chore will be done for the year.
I'll be credit card debt-free in the next couple of weeks. My home loan is disappearing at an almost dizzying rate. The interest on my home equity loan is dropping (thanks shitty economy!). I'm going to put my tax refund in my savings account and behave myself. 2008 will be the year my personal finances improve.
Considering how good I've been at stuffing money into my 401K, I'm ready for the next step in life- becoming a SugarDaddy.
Taking applications immediately...
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Cute with Joey.
Joey.
- most photographable of the three cats who own me
- only pees on the furniture when she is emotional
- likes to sit on my lap at the computer
- Brother Puff picks on her
- chews on her nametag on the collar Sandy bought her
- doesn't like having her claws trimmed or her ears cleaned out
- tomboy
Joey.
- most photographable of the three cats who own me
- only pees on the furniture when she is emotional
- likes to sit on my lap at the computer
- Brother Puff picks on her
- chews on her nametag on the collar Sandy bought her
- doesn't like having her claws trimmed or her ears cleaned out
- tomboy
Monday, January 21, 2008
Rob and Chuck and I had to wait just a bit long for dinner to arrive. But we chatted and had a nice time.
Rob, Puff, and Mama Cat.
Mama Cat is in love with Rob and insisted on licking him furry forearms. I think Puff was jealous.
First lemon meringue of 2008.
Forrest came over and we had lemon meringue pie. It was delicious. Forrest had two pieces. He's young and skinny and can get away with stuff like that.
Unfortunately, the Mexican food we had has given Rob a little tummy ache.
These are today's dramatic happenings, brought to you by Blogspot.
Rob, Puff, and Mama Cat.
Mama Cat is in love with Rob and insisted on licking him furry forearms. I think Puff was jealous.
First lemon meringue of 2008.
Forrest came over and we had lemon meringue pie. It was delicious. Forrest had two pieces. He's young and skinny and can get away with stuff like that.
Unfortunately, the Mexican food we had has given Rob a little tummy ache.
These are today's dramatic happenings, brought to you by Blogspot.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Forrest came over this afternoon and we walked from my house and up the sides of Sentinel Peak (also called "A" Mountain, because of the large, ugly A stuck on its side in 1913.
Forrest and Homer.
I have been getting the house cleaned up because Rob and Chuck are coming tomorrow and I don't want them to think I live in squalor. Of course Puff had to throw up on the rug and then on the bed.
Mountain shadow, looking east.
I was supposed to take photographs of neighborhood houses and darn if I didn't take a nap instead. How did that happen?
Forrest and Homer.
I have been getting the house cleaned up because Rob and Chuck are coming tomorrow and I don't want them to think I live in squalor. Of course Puff had to throw up on the rug and then on the bed.
Mountain shadow, looking east.
I was supposed to take photographs of neighborhood houses and darn if I didn't take a nap instead. How did that happen?
Friday, January 18, 2008
I get motion sickness very easy. I well remember the drive through the mountains of Greece and the horrible nausea that induced.
Tonight about halfway through Cloverfield I thought I was going to barf. Now, at home, my stomach is churning. Unpleasant. Otherwise the movie was alright and had a few surprises.
I was surprised to see Eric's name in the credits. As it turns out, that was the other Eric.
Tonight about halfway through Cloverfield I thought I was going to barf. Now, at home, my stomach is churning. Unpleasant. Otherwise the movie was alright and had a few surprises.
I was surprised to see Eric's name in the credits. As it turns out, that was the other Eric.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Rob is coming next week and of course I have to make a dessert. Please vote in the comment section on which one I should bake!
A). Lemon meringue pie
B). Banana cream pie
C). Yellow cake with chocolate ganache frosting.
A). Lemon meringue pie
B). Banana cream pie
C). Yellow cake with chocolate ganache frosting.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
The power of celebrity and the internet. Sunday I posted a few pictures of Gerard Butler and within a few hours fans of the actor had found my website. Yesterday over 1,400 people stopped by, about 1,000 more than I usually get on a Monday. I just wish I had taken some better photos.
Speaking of celebrities, Forrest is back in town after a long winter break. I invited him over for dinner but now I've got to figure out what to make. I'm busy watching what I eat (the first day is the worst day) but I think I still will be tempted to make a lemon meringue pie. So fast, so easy, so delicious. I'll only allow myself one slice.
Speaking of celebrities, Forrest is back in town after a long winter break. I invited him over for dinner but now I've got to figure out what to make. I'm busy watching what I eat (the first day is the worst day) but I think I still will be tempted to make a lemon meringue pie. So fast, so easy, so delicious. I'll only allow myself one slice.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Because Adam asked, a couple of pictures of The Game filming:
Gerard Butler and his massive arms. Click picture to see in better detail.
A destroyed downtown Albuquerque.
And later. Many fans of Gerard Butler have been visiting my blog (hello!) and so I've posted a few more photos. My friend Barney, who was also at the conference, said to me, "I never expected a movie star to be so good looking in person." I had to agree with her (although he's even better with a beard).
Mr. Butler getting directions.
Gerard driving the truck.
Sun tran bus- this is amusing because this bus is from Tucson, orginally.
Gerard Butler and his massive arms. Click picture to see in better detail.
A destroyed downtown Albuquerque.
And later. Many fans of Gerard Butler have been visiting my blog (hello!) and so I've posted a few more photos. My friend Barney, who was also at the conference, said to me, "I never expected a movie star to be so good looking in person." I had to agree with her (although he's even better with a beard).
Mr. Butler getting directions.
Gerard driving the truck.
Sun tran bus- this is amusing because this bus is from Tucson, orginally.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Ohmigosh, Gerard Butler has massively awesome biceps- almost as nice as Adam's. He is also very handsome, especially when you walk by him and he is doing bicep curls before filming a scene for the movie they are filming here. I learned some interesting things- the huge pieces of concrete were actually styrofoam and the little chunks were ground up bits of newspaper. I have no idea if the movie will be any good, but Mr. Butler's biceps will be prominent.
Why do the hotel maids start hammering on doors at 7:30 AM on Saturday morning? This is one of those magical qualities of the Albuquerque Doubletree Hotel.
Nearby, at the Hyatt, a gin and tonic costs $8. This is New Mexico, not NYC.
My presentation is today and the background dancers are a no-show. very disappointing.
When I get back to Tucson I'm going to start figuring out exactly what I'm doing in 2008. Losing my little belly is the first thing, full-length hotel bathroom mirrors are, unfortunately, a way to identify every extra kilogram of weight.
Nearby, at the Hyatt, a gin and tonic costs $8. This is New Mexico, not NYC.
My presentation is today and the background dancers are a no-show. very disappointing.
When I get back to Tucson I'm going to start figuring out exactly what I'm doing in 2008. Losing my little belly is the first thing, full-length hotel bathroom mirrors are, unfortunately, a way to identify every extra kilogram of weight.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Convention Hell. Why did I come for the entire convention? The hotel I'm in sucks- ugly-as-fuck, poorly designed, broken elevator, hotel room is either too cold or too hot, and you can't shut the fucking curtains and the light shines in all night long.
The hotel the convention is in has very few chairs for sitting around in. The one sitting area is being used for a blood drive. So when you walk in the first thing you see is people's blood being sucked out by the Red Cross vampires.
During the morning session a fire alarm went off and we milled about, not really wanting to go outside in the 40-something weather. Outside, downtown Albuquerque is dead-dead-dead. The only excitement is that they are filming a movie at the ugly convention center, and reportedly Pedro from Napoleon Dynamite has been spotted. I only saw two young women in very short, bizarre skirts and makeup and another woman complaining about the fact that there were too many PAs, which I assume is "Production Assistant" and not "Prince Albert," 'cause you can never have too many of those around.
And everything closes at 2 PM and who wants to eat in the hotel restaurant, especially at the Albuquerque Doubletree Hotel, which is both super ugly, cold, and the selection looks awful. In contrast, the salsa at last night's reception was very good.
So yeah, I picked a wrong year to attend this conference.
The hotel the convention is in has very few chairs for sitting around in. The one sitting area is being used for a blood drive. So when you walk in the first thing you see is people's blood being sucked out by the Red Cross vampires.
During the morning session a fire alarm went off and we milled about, not really wanting to go outside in the 40-something weather. Outside, downtown Albuquerque is dead-dead-dead. The only excitement is that they are filming a movie at the ugly convention center, and reportedly Pedro from Napoleon Dynamite has been spotted. I only saw two young women in very short, bizarre skirts and makeup and another woman complaining about the fact that there were too many PAs, which I assume is "Production Assistant" and not "Prince Albert," 'cause you can never have too many of those around.
And everything closes at 2 PM and who wants to eat in the hotel restaurant, especially at the Albuquerque Doubletree Hotel, which is both super ugly, cold, and the selection looks awful. In contrast, the salsa at last night's reception was very good.
So yeah, I picked a wrong year to attend this conference.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Post 1477. I'm off to Albuquerque for a conference. I checked out the gay bar scene and immediately wrote down the info for the one listed as a sleazy, drag queen bar. I know quality.
Last night, while shopping for clothing, I saw the most bizarre transgender person. A big, tall older man wearing a very short, red, terrycloth dress with a big white belt. He had just made some purchases at Lane Bryant, I hope he took advantage of the sales! He certainly had balls, you would not catch me wearing that get-up in public (too club-kiddish for me).
On a more serious note, I really like Barack Obama and think he would make an excellent president. I'm not just saying that because he is my seventh cousin (I didn't vote for either Bushies, and I'm also related to them).
Last night, while shopping for clothing, I saw the most bizarre transgender person. A big, tall older man wearing a very short, red, terrycloth dress with a big white belt. He had just made some purchases at Lane Bryant, I hope he took advantage of the sales! He certainly had balls, you would not catch me wearing that get-up in public (too club-kiddish for me).
On a more serious note, I really like Barack Obama and think he would make an excellent president. I'm not just saying that because he is my seventh cousin (I didn't vote for either Bushies, and I'm also related to them).
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Homersworld endorses Barack Obama for the Iowa caucuses!
Is the election over yet?
Is the election over yet?
Monday, January 07, 2008
Best Holiday Present. And the award goes to.....
Click to see every delicious morsel.
Mark and Rodger!
- Cascade Delight Best Raspberry Jam
- Tiltons Best Apricot Jam
- Spicy Dill Pickles
- Hot Salsa, Last Batch
- Warm Tomatillo Salsa
Ohmigod, the way to seduce me is through homemade canned goods.
Click to see every delicious morsel.
Mark and Rodger!
- Cascade Delight Best Raspberry Jam
- Tiltons Best Apricot Jam
- Spicy Dill Pickles
- Hot Salsa, Last Batch
- Warm Tomatillo Salsa
Ohmigod, the way to seduce me is through homemade canned goods.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
A winter tradition, now. Go out to either the front yard or back yard and pick oranges. The backyard tree, which is actually on the neighbor's side but the branches droop onto my side, has sweeter oranges. The frontyard tree has more, many more, but they are usually smaller.
Front orange tree.
I pick a washpan full and run water over them, picking the occasional stem off. The 1950s or 1960s Sunbeam mixer with the juicer attachment is hauled out and I clean a year's worth of dust off. Assembly required. Oranges sliced in half and I discard the ones that look a little off- bruised or bug-eaten.
Washing.
The juicer makes a "rrrrrrr" sound as it rotates. When I push an orange half down onto it, it becomes "grrrr-grrrr" sound. Every so often I stop and wipe off the pulp that accumulates on the screen.
Before I start juicing.
A washpan makes a bit more than a half-gallon. I drank a glass while typing this. Better than last year's, from what I can remember.
Front orange tree.
I pick a washpan full and run water over them, picking the occasional stem off. The 1950s or 1960s Sunbeam mixer with the juicer attachment is hauled out and I clean a year's worth of dust off. Assembly required. Oranges sliced in half and I discard the ones that look a little off- bruised or bug-eaten.
Washing.
The juicer makes a "rrrrrrr" sound as it rotates. When I push an orange half down onto it, it becomes "grrrr-grrrr" sound. Every so often I stop and wipe off the pulp that accumulates on the screen.
Before I start juicing.
A washpan makes a bit more than a half-gallon. I drank a glass while typing this. Better than last year's, from what I can remember.
Friday, January 04, 2008
I made French toast (with whipped cream and banana-pecan topping), hash browns, and sliced mangoes for Mummy's going-away supper. Vince came over and we ate and chatted. It was very nice.
It will be quiet without her here. I hope she doesn't freeze in Michigan.
It will be quiet without her here. I hope she doesn't freeze in Michigan.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Last cake for a while. Lightning Cake (page 930-931 in Joy of Cooking), a single layer lemon cake. No more baking for a while. After Mummy leaves on Saturday it is time to watch (very carefully) what I eat.
On my Martha Stewart cake stand (thanks Mummy!).
Electric bill arrives today- $147. Last month's was $34. This is what happens when Tucson has "winter." I checked, though, and it was about the same as last year. Of course I'm feeling poor at the moment. I hope I get a raise.
Next week I'm going to Albuquerque next week for a conference- do any of my readers live there?
On my Martha Stewart cake stand (thanks Mummy!).
Electric bill arrives today- $147. Last month's was $34. This is what happens when Tucson has "winter." I checked, though, and it was about the same as last year. Of course I'm feeling poor at the moment. I hope I get a raise.
Next week I'm going to Albuquerque next week for a conference- do any of my readers live there?
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
The flourless chocolate cake with chocolate meringue frosting was delicious.
And very fattening.
Steve and Bob's party was nice and Mummy had a good time. Unfortunately, she is impossible to photograph- always has the deer-in-headlight thing going.
Afterwards, I went to the Venture and at midnight gave Jeremy a little kiss.
Happy 2008.
On New Year's Day I lay in bed most of the day reading a very interesting book about insects. I think Doug should name a beetle after me (but not a mite or some new variety of lice).
Joey just meowed at me (she's sitting on my lap as I type this). I believe she is mad because I'm not putting her picture on here today. Maybe tomorrow.
And very fattening.
Steve and Bob's party was nice and Mummy had a good time. Unfortunately, she is impossible to photograph- always has the deer-in-headlight thing going.
Afterwards, I went to the Venture and at midnight gave Jeremy a little kiss.
Happy 2008.
On New Year's Day I lay in bed most of the day reading a very interesting book about insects. I think Doug should name a beetle after me (but not a mite or some new variety of lice).
Joey just meowed at me (she's sitting on my lap as I type this). I believe she is mad because I'm not putting her picture on here today. Maybe tomorrow.
Monday, December 31, 2007
The fourth annual end-of-the-year self portrait.
December 31, 2007.
This is the 66th photo of myself I've posted this year. That's one for every 5.5 days. In contrast, I only had one photograph of a lemon meringue pie. My priorities are very warped.
So 2007 was interesting. I'd like to thank everyone who has been reading my blog and especially those people who left comments, nice or nasty.
I've got some ideas for 2008 floating through my head- but I've learned not to set goals because, at least for me, I never fully achieve the laundry list.
Hope your 2008 is equally as exciting. See you there.
December 31, 2007.
This is the 66th photo of myself I've posted this year. That's one for every 5.5 days. In contrast, I only had one photograph of a lemon meringue pie. My priorities are very warped.
So 2007 was interesting. I'd like to thank everyone who has been reading my blog and especially those people who left comments, nice or nasty.
I've got some ideas for 2008 floating through my head- but I've learned not to set goals because, at least for me, I never fully achieve the laundry list.
Hope your 2008 is equally as exciting. See you there.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
At the Humane Society it was discovered that ElliottJr was actually Elliotina. My cat sexing skills have declined in my decrepitude. I hope those two kittens find a lovely home to live in. Unfortunately, as I have discovered in the past, three cats are alright but five cats make you undateable.
The remnants of HolidayCold07 are rapidly disappearing, just the occasional cough and resulting flotsam. Last night I came home and lay down after dinner and woke up with my mother putting the electric blanket on me. My house has been cold, and the little electric floor heaters do not make it seem much warmer. Mummy looked cold so I moved the electric blanket to the couch and she spent yesterday warm and comfortable and was very pleased to be in such a condition.
I'm now pondering what kind of cake to make for a New Year's Eve party I am attending. I'm thinking a simple yellow cake with raspberry filling and chocolate ganache frosting dripped over the top will be the likely choice- easy to make, tasty, and looks dramatic.
The remnants of HolidayCold07 are rapidly disappearing, just the occasional cough and resulting flotsam. Last night I came home and lay down after dinner and woke up with my mother putting the electric blanket on me. My house has been cold, and the little electric floor heaters do not make it seem much warmer. Mummy looked cold so I moved the electric blanket to the couch and she spent yesterday warm and comfortable and was very pleased to be in such a condition.
I'm now pondering what kind of cake to make for a New Year's Eve party I am attending. I'm thinking a simple yellow cake with raspberry filling and chocolate ganache frosting dripped over the top will be the likely choice- easy to make, tasty, and looks dramatic.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
List of foods Mummy doesn't like:
- mushrooms
- spaghetti sauce
- catsup
- gravy
- nutmeg or anything with nutmeg in it (e.g., eggnog)
- hummous
- spicy foods
- beef tamales
- lettuce
- salsa
- persimmons (make her vomit)
- oregano
- food with that extra stuff in it (spices)
- mayonaisse
- lasagna if it has too much tomato stuff in it
- spicy mustard
- salad greens (hard to eat)
- brie cheese
- eggplant
- alfredo sauce
- pesto
List of foods Mummy likes to eat:
- yellow potatoes
- very well-boiled root vegetables (carrots must be mushy)
- lemon meringue pie
- coconut cream pie
- apple pie
- any form of chocolate
- licorice
- mashed potatoes (the kind I make)
- Steve and Bob's corn chowder
- Spanish rice
- rice and beans
- crunchy crackers
- chocolate milk
- bananas
- acorn squash (but not other varieties)
- rice pudding
- cinnamon
- BLT, minus the L
- scrambled eggs
- Miracle Whip
- tomato soup
- grilled cheese
- frosted flakes
- avocado (but in a salad, not as guacamole)
- macaroni and cheese
- cauliflower and cheese sauce
- four-cheese pizza (the frozen kind)
- tater tots
- veggie corn dogs
- beans
- French toast and waffles
I'm at my wit's end trying to think of something new to make. When I asked Mummy what she wanted for Holiday lunch she said "Mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs."
- mushrooms
- spaghetti sauce
- catsup
- gravy
- nutmeg or anything with nutmeg in it (e.g., eggnog)
- hummous
- spicy foods
- beef tamales
- lettuce
- salsa
- persimmons (make her vomit)
- oregano
- food with that extra stuff in it (spices)
- mayonaisse
- lasagna if it has too much tomato stuff in it
- spicy mustard
- salad greens (hard to eat)
- brie cheese
- eggplant
- alfredo sauce
- pesto
List of foods Mummy likes to eat:
- yellow potatoes
- very well-boiled root vegetables (carrots must be mushy)
- lemon meringue pie
- coconut cream pie
- apple pie
- any form of chocolate
- licorice
- mashed potatoes (the kind I make)
- Steve and Bob's corn chowder
- Spanish rice
- rice and beans
- crunchy crackers
- chocolate milk
- bananas
- acorn squash (but not other varieties)
- rice pudding
- cinnamon
- BLT, minus the L
- scrambled eggs
- Miracle Whip
- tomato soup
- grilled cheese
- frosted flakes
- avocado (but in a salad, not as guacamole)
- macaroni and cheese
- cauliflower and cheese sauce
- four-cheese pizza (the frozen kind)
- tater tots
- veggie corn dogs
- beans
- French toast and waffles
I'm at my wit's end trying to think of something new to make. When I asked Mummy what she wanted for Holiday lunch she said "Mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs."
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
My Holiday Cold progresses and I my nose runneth over. Santa brought me a waffle iron so guess what Mummy and I will be having for dinner. If you guessed waffles, you'd be correct.
ElliottJr wishes everyone a Happy Holiday.
I am the Cat Whisperer. Little ElliottJr has gone from being a wild, feral kitten to a purring lap baby in less than 48 hours. He likes to play with blue yarn and enjoys tummy rubs. Little Girl is still a tad skittish, but will purr when she gets petted. Neither enjoyed the ear mite drops although they behaved very well when I was cleaning out their ears. I'm hoping to have a new home for them by Friday.
The problem when having a cold during choice Holiday times is that the things I enjoy doing- lying in bed, reading, cooking- are not enjoyable to do. I feel like valuable Holiday Hours are being wasted blowing my nose and cursing meth addicts for making the pharm companys dumb down their medicines. The stuff I'm taking- I should have known better- has had no visible benefits.
Enough! What did Santa bring you?
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ElliottJr wishes everyone a Happy Holiday.
I am the Cat Whisperer. Little ElliottJr has gone from being a wild, feral kitten to a purring lap baby in less than 48 hours. He likes to play with blue yarn and enjoys tummy rubs. Little Girl is still a tad skittish, but will purr when she gets petted. Neither enjoyed the ear mite drops although they behaved very well when I was cleaning out their ears. I'm hoping to have a new home for them by Friday.
The problem when having a cold during choice Holiday times is that the things I enjoy doing- lying in bed, reading, cooking- are not enjoyable to do. I feel like valuable Holiday Hours are being wasted blowing my nose and cursing meth addicts for making the pharm companys dumb down their medicines. The stuff I'm taking- I should have known better- has had no visible benefits.
Enough! What did Santa bring you?
