David's Dabbles

Patio Warmth Augmentation

2012-02-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

The Presto® HeatDish® Plus Parabolic Heater is available from Costco Website for under $75 that includes shipping. Last evening's light breeze on the patio made the propane-fired heater a little less effective. I immediately thought about the infra-red heater dish that Costco carries.

This will not replace, but augment, the function of our current patio heater. Placed at the other end of the picnic table it should fill in quite nicely.

I expect the heater to arrive this coming Monday or Tuesday. The device's dimensions are 18.5" high by 12" wide by 16" long. It weighs 5.9 lb. I believe we will be quite pleased with its performance.

Reality of Relationships

2012-02-14T21:40:00.000-08:00

We all remember the candy hearts we took to school to hand out to our classmates on Valentine's Day. Good thing the above examples were not in the mix back then.

In With The New

2012-02-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

The original unit's outdoor temperature sensor has bit the dust. It lasted five years through extremes of hot and cold. I could not find a replacement sensor for the older model. I hated to spend the money; yet, one feature is important to have.

Shirley is always checking the outdoor temperature to decide whether she should grab her jacket before going out the door. And on this new device the outdoor temperature display is larger than the indoor temp reading.

The atomic clock technology in this instrument means daily accuracy for the time, as well as automatic adjustment for beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time.

Outdoor Sensor

Patio Warmth In Winter

2012-01-31T16:05:00.000-08:00

The heat focusing reflector adjusts easily to direct warmth. This patio heater truly kicks. We had a family BBQ last Saturday. As dusk approached the patio area was quite chill. The decision to get the heater came easily afterwards. We tested the heater last evening. There will be no more family gatherings on the patio in winter with uncomfortable chill to deal with.

The heater cost was $179 with another $42 going for a filled propane tank. Refilling the tank will cost only $24. We will keep a back-up tank for when the grill or heater runs out of fuel. Next day refill will be easy.

Tonight we plan to grill steaks and enjoy our patio in the early evening. Color us spoiled.

Go to YouTube and check out our patio video.

Keeping Girl Scouts "Safe"

2012-01-15T10:49:00.000-08:00

Girl Scouts accepts transgender kid, provokes cookie boycott…
When fear spotlights ignorance we can only shake our heads about people who are unable to apply critical thinking. Their false, slippery slope, arguments reveal this ignorance.

One individual is referred to in the news report: "I ask all fellow Girl Scouts who want a true, all-girl experience not to sell any Girl Scouts cookies until GSUSA (Girl Scouts of the USA) addresses our concerns," says the girl, identified as a teen named Taylor, a troop member from California, in some news reports. "I ask all parents who want their girls to be in a safe environment [emphasis mine] to tell their leaders why you will not allow your girls to make any more money for GSUSA."

I believe that Taylor's parents have transferred their "adolescent penis phobia" to their daughter. And how will allowing the transgender child into the troop create an unsafe environment? When parents wish to marginalize children who are different within the scout subculture they teach non-acceptance and intolerance among their offspring.

How sad for those girls in scouting and for those children who are honest about their emotions and feelings. Hopefully, the transgender child in question will receive appropriate support from all directions so that her self-esteem will not suffer.

As for me, I generally do not buy Girl Scout Cookies because I am diabetic. However, I liked how one person was quoted about the issue. She said that she would buy the cookies and give them away to others. That is a plan worth following. Let's offset the boycott of the ignorant.

Sounds For Sleep

2012-01-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

Sound Oasis S-550-05 Sound Therapy System

Ocean Surf, Summer Night, White Noise, Wind, Rain, and Stream are the choices. The sounds of ocean surf and summer night are my top two favorites. Volume adjustment permits the drowning out of street noise for day sleepers; yet, helps to set the mood according to personal preference when listening to nature's sounds.

The model pictured above accommodates sound cards for additional sleep therapy choices. These include Rhythms of the Sea, Wilderness Journey, and Tropical Rain Forest. I sampled the tracks for the expansion cards and found nothing I just had to have.

One of the testimonials on Sound Oasis' site was given by an individual who had had chronic insomnia that was not related to depression. After many years of seeing various medical specialists for management of her condition she finally, out of absolute desperation and personal researching, got the Sound Oasis Sleep Therapy System. (Not one specialist ever recommended this.) Her sleep patterns and periods returned to normal rather quickly, ending years of pure hell with her sleep efforts.

I generally have no problem sleeping. Nonetheless, I truly liked listening to ocean surf when I went down for a nap today. The time setting allows for continuous sound. Three other choices are for 30, 60, and 90 minute periods. The final several minutes play out as the volume lowers slowly. Hopefully any sleeper never is aware of this volume attenuation.

Tonight I will have ninety minutes of ocean surf when I turn in for the night.

Alarm Clock Radio With Atomic Clock Technology

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

All that I wanted was an alarm clock radio with Atomic Clock technology. A search on Amazon.com yielded the very item I wanted. Or so I thought. Not until its arrival and during set-up was it apparent there was no accommodation for Daylight Saving Time (DST). Yes, my Honeywell atomic clock kept accurate time (never losing, never gaining); yet, that was the extent of using the Ft. Collins, Colorado standard time server.

The company that sold the Honeywell clock through Amazon has agreed to reverse the debit on my credit card. Further searching on the Internet was fruitless. Suddenly I decided to call my local Radio Shack to explain my dilemma. To my amazement the lady I spoke to stated that they carried the very item I wanted.

Jolene explained she owns the Timex Redi Set, and that it does indeed adjust at beginning and end of DST.

Years ago Shirley got the Sony Dream Machine. Every spring she had to manually forward the time by one hour and set it back in the fall. When I upgraded our analog kitchen clock it was time to order a clock radio with Atomic Clock technology as well.

The clock on our microwave oven is now the only timekeeper that requires manual assist for semi-annual changes.
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Eastern Classic Thai Restaurant

2012-01-04T00:44:00.000-08:00

[CLICK ON VIDEO TO SEE LARGER VIEW]

Eastern Classic Thai Restaurant serves award winning Thai cuisine at reasonable prices. The above video was put together and links to its YouTube home were e-mailed to people Shirley and I know in the Redlands area. Additionally, we asked that they forward the presentation to people on their e-mail lists. This has resulted in first-time patrons for the restaurant. The service is great and the food is tasty, so return patronage is a given.

This was my first venture into producing this type of video. Fun!

Phishing Alert

2012-01-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

The above video presents information about protecting

your personal and financial information. Please view it.

I received a recorded message via telephone from someone identifying herself as being with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Her message is that I may have been recently contacted by an entity that claims to be a company with whom I have recently done business. The warning is to never give up personal and financial information, no matter how urgent the matter may seem.

The practice of getting people to give up their personal and financial information is called "Phishing."

Our government provides considerable consumer protection information at OnguardOnline.Gov that is easy to access.
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In With The New — 2012

2011-12-31T11:42:00.000-08:00

Thomas Edison is holding his awesome invention, the incandescent lamp bulb. That technology has been the standard for years and years.

"But come January 1, when a light-bulb law setting new efficiency standards is set to take effect, it's out with those old incandescents and in with the new."

Apparently any new incandescent bulbs must meet more rigid energy standards; yet, competitive types will be the compact fluorescent and LED lamps. It is said that by having the energy-efficient conversion that thirty large power plants can be closed down in the U.S.

Our home has been converted to compact fluorescent for a few years now. Thereby, energy consumption for home lighting is 25% of what it used to be. That is a considerable savings.

The new compact fluorescent lamp bulbs are no longer the stark white color that seemed so unnatural to the eyes. The fluorescing substance in this type is available that give the softer, warmer light that we have come to like about incandescents.

So, I guess this means that stores will no longer carry the "outlawed" lamp bulbs. Be prepared for pricier bulbs with claims that they will last far longer than the conventional incandescent.

Are you ready for the change?

ANOTHER lottery jackpot at risk!

2011-12-30T06:32:00.000-08:00

Unknown lottery winner still hasn't come forward after a year.

"If you bought at Hot Lotto ticket last December in Des Moines, Iowa you might want to start looking for that, like, now.

One ticket hit a jackpot worth $16.5 million dollars one year ago and it has so far gone unclaimed. And unless someone can present the winning ticket fast, the money will be gone for good. The chance to claim the prize expires at 4 p.m local time Thursday."

What would we do if we found a winning lottery ticket after the jackpot had expired. In my case, for my emotional health and sanity, I would convince myself that this was meant to be. Perhaps the winnings would somehow lead to my ruin.

What would you do under similar circumstances?

December Solstice

2011-12-28T01:19:00.000-08:00

The December Solstice is also known as the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere and the summer solstice in the southern hemisphere due to the seasonal differences. What it means for us here in the U.S. is December 22nd was shortest day of the year. Successive days are now lengthening.

Although days become longer, our oceans influence some yet colder days to come in our new winter season.

Lazy-Butt Me

2011-12-27T02:40:00.000-08:00

"Creature of comfort" I am. That is a euphemism for "lazy–assed bastard." And one may wonder why that twice a year clock setting, once when we spring forward (Daylight Saving Time) and again when we fall back (Standard Time), is such a chore for me.

Finally, after several years of mulling this issue, I bit the bullet. Searching for this item finally revealed a 10" Kitchen Clock. Earlier choices offered a larger clock to replace our current non-atomic kitchen clock. This one seems perfect, and at a reasonable $20 cost.

Atomic clock technology, as you probably know, involves radio broadcast receiver technology. Every morning at 2:00 a.m. the clock's receiver is activated, whereupon it tunes automatically to a time standard server in Colorado. This means that the displayed time on the clock face is always on the money. It never gains or loses time.

Then, on each respective time change date the clock adjusts forward or backward by an hour. Why is this important to me?

Having our personal computers, including iPad, to always display the current time, along with our wireless phones, the semi-annual time adjustments are done without our thinking about it. The time display for DirecTV is always accurate as well. The cordless base and handsets that serve our landline phone system is also up-to-date.

Then there is my bedside clock and our weather station that displays indoor and outdoor temperatures. Same convenience.

This leaves one clock to change manually. That happens to be the clock on our microwave oven. No doubt, some day there will be models that offer the time-change option. I will never replace our current microwave oven just to get this convenience. Nonetheless, when our microwave does fail I will be on the lookout for an oven that has the advanced time-display technology. It is bound to happen some day.

How many clocks in your home must you adjust manually twice a year? Once you start going atomic you will be hooked, I feel certain.

Hurtful Hernia

2011-12-23T03:20:00.000-08:00

The diaphragm is our main muscle for breathing. The esophagus (food tube) passes through a natural opening (esophageal hiatus) at the diaphragm after which it joins the stomach. A hiatal hernia is when a portion of the top of the stomach slides up through the esophageal hiatus in the diaphragm towards the chest cavity. This results in pressure on the esophageal walls, and often manifests intense discomfort. Due to its location the pain of a hiatal hernia feels like a heart attack.

I just spent fours days in hospital where after two endoscopies and one CAT scan I was diagnosed with two kidney stones, gallstones, and a hiatal hernia. Ouch!

I am home now in recovery mode. As well, I am learning how to live with a hiatal hernia.

Cigarette Pack: $15

2011-12-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

As a youth I could buy 3 cartons of cigarettes for $15.00. New Yorkers now spend that for one pack: twenty cigarettes. That comes to 75¢ per cigarette. Crazy!

If ever there was a motivation to quit the cost looms large. A 2-pack per day smoker parts with thirty dollars every day. A month of thirty days calculates to $450. I can truly think of better ways to spend that kind of money month-to-month. (OMG… one year costs approximately $5,400.00.)

Why do people shell out this kind of money? The answer in one word. Nicotine. Highly addictive. On the level of heroin as to how our brains latch on to nicotine's effects.

Yet, as an ex-smoker, I know that quitting is possible once one makes up his or her mind to stop.

The majority of smokers wish they didn't. Are you an ex-smoker? Are you a smoker who would like to quit?

December Birthday

2011-12-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Our oldest son has his birthday anniversary on December 10th. Birthdays in the Christmas month can add to the financial outlay at this time of year. Perhaps those born on Christmas day (or a couple days before or after) can expect a "combined" Christmas and Birthday present.

Fortunately our son is old enough to be OK with a celebratory dinner that includes his siblings and their families. John's oldest daughter and her boyfriend will be joining us as well.

And getting everyone together for some enjoyable time together is perfect for the beginning of December. As well, where did this year go? Feels like only yesterday that we were starting out in the new year.

Anyone else out there with a December birthday?

Joining The Home WiFi Network

2011-12-03T06:59:00.000-08:00

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

A new HP printer has joined our home WiFi network. The set-up was simple and straightforward. With the old printer there was a "sharing" setting that allowed Shirley to send a print job from her laptop. However, she had to ensure the printer had been turned on manually.

Presently the printer is in a stand-by mode that allows it to spring into action when a device on the network sends its print request. Son John downloaded the Windows version of the new printer driver to his PC, thus joining the WiFi network for his printing needs. (He already had been networked for Internet browsing.)

And my iPad 2 now finds the printer when I wish to print something from the iPad. How cool is that?

Yes… ours is a secure, password-protected, wireless network. Yet, we have expanded the network's function, thus providing great convenience.

I enjoy living at a time of phenomenal technology growth. In mid-year 2012 I will upgrade to an iPhone (something I have successfully resisted up to now). I want to experience Siri's helpful capabilities. By then Siri may have been through a significant upgrade.

I am spoiled. How about you?

Licenses Get New Look

2011-11-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

California appears to be going to great lengths to foil the fake ID suppliers in the state. The various elements designed into the California ID and Driver License cards should keep the counterfeiters at bay. Of course, a UV light source might be a bit pricey to obtain.

How smart to have the vertical orientation for provisional and under-21 card holders. No one presenting this ID is going to be purchasing alcohol (unless it is only rubbing alcohol).

Team of students at CCAD redesigned vehicle tags and Ohio driver’s license at request of governor.

This is a pretty cool re-design of the Ohio license tag. The news site offered no image of a newly designed Ohio driver license. Likely it will include anti-counterfeiting elements.

California has redone its license plate design a couple times after the original black plate with orange characters.

I wonder which state has the most interesting design.

In Positive Economic Sign…

2011-11-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

…Walmart Customers Killing Each Other

to Buy Shit

Pepper Spraying, Homicide Bullish Indicators, Economists Say

MINNEAPOLIS (The Borowitz Report) – In what economists are hailing as a clear sign of economic recovery, Walmart customers across the USA jammed into stores on Black Friday, sometimes killing each other to buy useless shit.

“We have been looking for evidence that the economy is on the mend,” said Davis Logsdon, chairman of the economics department at the University of Minnesota. “When people resort to homicide to buy a Blu-ray player, that is very, very good news indeed.”

Mr. Logsdon said he was “impressed” by the lengths to which some Walmart customers were going to grab coveted sale items: “They’re using tactics we usually associate with the UC-Davis police.”

With many customers using pepper spray and other weapons to get a shopping advantage, however, Mr. Logsdon advised Americans not to enter a Walmart unarmed.

“If you want to get your hands on a doorbuster, you’d better have a firearm,” he said. “Fortunately, Walmart is offering several great doorbusters on firearms.”

Walmart and other retailers’ decision to commence their Black Friday sales a day early carries with it an added benefit for consumers, he noted: “Now, Americans will be able to declare bankruptcy one day earlier.”

All in all, Dr. Logsdon said that the increased violence and mayhem at retail outlets across the country was “a testament to the greatness of the American consumer.”

“Egyptians risk their lives for new government,” he said. “Americans bravely do the same for new flat screens.”

Black Friday Preparations…

2011-11-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

Spending The Night

Standing By For Event

iReport — "I'm at Wal-Mart in Brea and noticed this long row of pallets shrinked wrapped in black for the Friday after Thanksgiving. What is sad is that there is only a pallet of each item, which will be easily sold out in less than 5 minutes."

The comment above easily captures my belief that everything, everywhere, will be sold to the first 100 of hundreds who hit the stores for Black Friday deals. Our daughter-in-law noted that the line jumpers were out in force and the masses in the store were like starving animals at the feeding trough.

I cannot bring myself to do the Black Friday events. I choose to avoid the insanity.

New Side-by-Side

2011-11-20T20:19:00.000-08:00

Ice Dispensed Through The Door

The refrigerator being replaced still works; however, its ice maker is a little slow on production. As well, the cubes are collected in a deep tray inside. Ice cubes will now dispense through the door.

New front access design accommodates the water filter for easy change-out. What will those engineers dream up next?

James and Stephanie will take the old unit and put it in their garage. They will not need ice cubes from that appliance.

We picked out our new refrigerator yesterday and it will be delivered in the morning between 10:45 and 12:45 a.m.

The Mount

2011-11-06T18:43:00.000-08:00

Steady Goes The Camera

The Mount

The Cam

A smooth, hard plastic disk adheres to my dashboard. It functions to attach my Garmin Nuvi's suction mount. I Googled "suction cup camera mount" today and ordered the first-pictured item above. It should arrive by a week from tomorrow, maybe sooner.

Yes… I have intended to get one for some time now. My Sony video cam is not that large and bulky thanks to miniaturization technology in today's circuitry.

There have been times when I wish I had my camera to capture snow-capped mountains, attractive settings, and other interesting moments. A dashboard cam seems like the right idea.

Extra Hour Of Sleep, Or…

2011-11-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

…Some Will Work An Additional Hour Tonight

Will we go to bed early enough to catch that extra sleep when we fall back an hour at 2:00 a.m.? I have blown that opportunity in the past by staying up into the wee small hours.

Do you have any clocks that automatically adjust to the beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time? Our computers will do that. My bedside alarm clock works that way. However, the kitchen clock (analog face) and the microwave oven time (digital) display must be changed manually.

I feel for those who work at night and will put in an extra hour for their shifts. Some will be paid for that additional hour. Others will not. Some companies claim that on the other end, those who go home an hour earlier when we spring ahead are still paid for their full shift and that compensates for not covering the extra hour.

Anyone scheduled to work a day shift on Sunday might show up an hour early when they forget about the time change.

I wish the world would move to a year-round "daylight saving" model.

The Awesome Potato

2011-11-05T14:21:00.000-07:00

Enjoy it with Greek Yogurt topping.

Baked potato in the regular oven will be a choice during winter months. It is nutritionally on par with brown rice. The potato has more potassium and vitamin E to offer, as well as vitamin C which rice does not. Both baked potato and brown rice have complex carbohydrate, making them superior to simple starchy foods. As well, both provide protein.

And the topper is the topping. Skip the butter and/or sour cream and go with Greek yogurt. This type of yogurt has twice the protein as regular yogurt. The consistency and flavor are terrific. A zesty lemon and pepper salt or salt-free garlic and herb sprinkled over the potato before topping make for interesting flavor enhancements.

One-half large potato equals 2 carbohydrate servings. Lunch and dinner plans allow one more carb serving, which makes one fruit serving a desirable choice.

Long Grain Brown Rice

2011-11-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

Gluten Free

[click image to enlarge]

Brown rice is higher in nutrients that are largely diminished among the white rice varieties. One cup of brown rice provides 45 grams carbohydrate and 5 grams protein. It adds 216 calories to your diet. Brown rice provides calcium and iron; albeit, a relatively low percentage of daily requirement.

A smart way of managing carbohydrate intake is to avoid anything white. This includes bread, potatoes, rice, etc. The one white item that is safe is cauliflower.

With my new re-focus on diet and diabetes management I am more often including brown rice as a cereal choice.

Peanut Butter Prices Skyrocketing

2011-10-31T21:51:00.000-07:00

Can you say "global warming" boys and girls?

"Prices for a ton of runner peanuts, commonly used to make peanut butter, hit nearly $1,200 this month, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That's up from just $450 per ton a year ago. Overall, the USDA projects that American peanut production will hit 3.6 billion pounds this year, down 13% from last year.

"Analysts attribute this drop to the intense heat and drought that hit the southern U.S. this year…"

Al Gore warned us of increased food costs as crops failed due to effects of global warming.

Toilet Operating System

2011-10-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

Not A Digital Operating System

w0w… The power-assisted flush of our new Glacier Bay water closet moves waste twenty feet further in the drain line than a conventional gravity-drained toilet. And it uses only 1 gallon of water per flush. Our days of double-flushing are over because the water closet bowl is completely emptied and cleared. And in only about five seconds.

As evidenced in the image above, water never enters the tank proper. The flushing system is the FlushMate device within the tank. A minimum water pressure is required because the FlushMate tank fills, compressing the air above it. This volume of compressed air provides the air pressure needed for the power-assist.

The actual flush is a little noisier than conventional toilets. However, the bowl clears quickly and the refilling takes less than thirty seconds.

Beyond the flushing efficiency is the water conserving benefit. This model sits a little higher in seating than the one replaced. This seems more comfortable for me. Shirley is interested in replacing the water closet in the master bedroom with this model. I think that is a good idea.

GPS Navigation

2011-10-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

I was curious. If I cabled my Garmin Nuvi 255W to my iMac's USB port would there be notification of a map update? After all, it had been more than a year ago when the GPS navigation device was purchased. At that time I ran the free map updater. Did I say "free?" Being a new purchase, the Nuvi qualified for a free update within the first ninety days if one was available. It was.

Two choices. A one-time update for $50 or a lifetime plan for $90. I had to be frugal in spite of the costlier choice being the better value. In a couple years I will once again check, then decide if I truly need another update. I suspect I will elect to leave well enough alone.

Having GPS navigation is truly wonderful. My Garmin has assisted me often and can be a dependable time saver when I need turn-by-turn guidance to my destination.

My Garmin Nuvi 255W came with a power cord with the attached FM receiver for traffic updates. When construction or accidents dictate lane closures and traffic back-ups the Garmin suggests alternate routes. I needed that only once, so far, and it was a life saver.

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses

2011-10-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

click image to enlarge

Truth is, now that I am retired it would be quite interesting to sit on a jury for a trial. For me, the most interesting would be a murder trial. The initial jury selection process would be part of the 'fun'.

However, I take medications that sometimes require my immediate use of the bathroom. This urgent need cannot be put off. So, halting a trial proceeding to make a facility visit would be quite disruptive in the courtroom.

Because I am 70 years [young] I do not need a letter from my doctor if I wish to be excused from jury service for medical reasons. I need only sign a release of my medical records in the event the jury administration should wish to review them. In my excusal request I explained my situation, of course.

That request was mailed one week ago and here I am with the "permanent jury service excuse" in today's mail. With mixed emotions I bid adieu to the jury administration.

Have you served on a jury? Was it interesting for you? Would you like to do it again? Or, do you dislike receiving a jury summons?

Sumatran Coffees

2011-10-21T16:15:00.000-07:00

Coffee Beans — Seeds of the Coffee Cherry

Indonesia

[click image to enlarge]

Sumatra

[click image to enlarge]

Sumatra lies between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean in Indonesia. The climate is tropical (hot and humid); yet, more moderate in higher elevations. Coffee production is the Arabica variety, a superior product.

Sam's Club carries European Café Sumatra coffee beans that are grown in the high altitudes. The beans are air-roasted. Freshly grinding the beans when brewing coffee ensures my enjoyment of the morning cup. Many times I brew coffee in mid-afternoon as a special beverage treat.

My twin brother got me interested in specialty coffee beans. He insisted that the best specialty coffees should be freshly ground using a burr grinder just prior to brewing. Now I will have my coffee no other way.

Potential Race Between Black Guy and Mormon Poses Dilemma for Bigots

2011-10-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

Doomsday Scenario, Haters Say

MINNEAPOLIS (The Borowitz Report) – A looming presidential race between a black guy and a Mormon is creating a major quandary for America’s bigots, a new poll reveals.

According to the poll, conducted by the University of Minnesota’s Opinion Research Institute, a broad majority of likely bigot voters “strongly agreed” with the statement, “If it winds up being between a black guy and a Mormon I don’t know what I’ll do because I don’t know which I hate more.”

Tea Party activist Eldin Brazelton of Oak Park, Illinois, expressed a frustration typical of the bigots surveyed: “We’ve spent the last three years stirring up anger towards a black guy, and that’s all going to go to waste if we just up and nominate a Mormon.”

According to Mr. Brazleton, a presidential choice between President Barack Obama and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney would be no choice at all: “For the life of me I don’t know why we can’t just have a regular President.”

Mr. Brazleton, who considers himself a sexist as well as a bigot, said that the doomsday scenario unfolding for 2012 offered one small silver lining: “At least we know it’s not going to be a woman this time.”

Elsewhere, in response to the ongoing Occupy Wall Street protests in lower Manhattan, banking giant Goldman Sachs announced today that it was investing in pepper-spray futures.

Palin Decides Not to Run: ‘I Want to Go Straight to the Quitting Part’

2011-10-06T08:04:00.000-07:00

Decision Leaves Moron Vote Up for Grabs

ANCHORAGE (The Borowitz Report) – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin told reporters today that she would not run for President because “I want to go straight to the quitting part.”

“If I launched a campaign, let’s face it, a couple of months from now I’d up and quit,” she said. “This is a real step-saver for all concerned.”

She said that prior to her decision she had seriously considered running, “but only for the free clothes.”

When asked about her future plans, she said, “Although I’m not running for President, I have no intention of spending more time with my family.”

The former Alaska Governor, who had originally scheduled a thirty-minute press conference to announce her decision, abruptly cut it short after fifteen minutes with no explanation.

The Tea Party favorite’s announcement leaves the remaining Republican candidates scrambling for the moron vote, a key constituency in the 2012 GOP race.

Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney was said to be considering new strategies to dispel the nagging impression that he is mentally competent, an attribute that has alienated millions of Tea Party voters.

Mr. Romney was rumored to be weighing a number of options, such as barking like a dog or wearing a bunch of bananas on his head at the next televised debate.

Meanwhile, still reeling from charges of racism, Texas Governor Rick Perry was reportedly huddling with advisors at his country home, Jewtrap.

Home Made Chicken Noodle Soup

2011-10-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

Chicken leg and thigh quarters were slow-cooked last night. The meat is now cut up into small pieces. The recipe calls for cooking chopped celery and onion. The chicken broth stands ready. Wide egg noodles will be included for a tasty chicken noodle soup.

This recipe was gleaned from the Internet and calls for corn starch to thicken the broth. However, I plan to substitute that with a couple cans of cream-style corn.

Overall this is a relatively simple chicken noodle soup recipe. It should be quite tasty and nutritious.

Do you have a chicken noodle soup recipe that you like quite well?

DIY Car Wash Soap

2011-10-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

For $5 I can get a "touch-free" automatic car wash that includes a spot-free rinse. I clean my car, on average, once every week. Doing the wash and rinse cycles myself will save me around $20 per month.

Shirley and I are now both retired and a fixed income is in our present and future. We shall be creative in finding ways to cut back on spending.

I Googled "Homemade Car Wash Soap" and found an informative article. I believe I will get some Murphy's Oil Soap and try it. Only 1 fl. oz. of that product is required in my bucket of warm water.

How about you folks. Do you have a car cleaning product of your own invention? And do you have some hints for living more economically? Any ideas will be most appreciated.

Banks Raise Fees on Same People Who Bailed Out Their Asses

2011-09-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

Introduce New ‘Thank You’ Fee on Debit Cards

NEW YORK (The Borowitz Report) – The largest banks in the US made history today by hiking fees on the same people who bailed out their asses three years ago.

“We would not exist today without the generosity of the American taxpayers,” said CEO Brian Moynihan of Bank of America, which received billions of dollars of Federal bailout money. “And we want to thank them by assessing a special monthly ‘thank you’ fee on all of our debit cards.”

Becoming emotional, Mr. Moynihan added, “We think of the taxpayers every time we vacation on our yachts or visit our third homes, and we want them to think of us every time they try to spend $20 on groceries.”

Mr. Moynihan said that even after paying the new $5 monthly fee, "American taxpayers should still have enough money left over to let them eat cake."

In other news, CNN announced today that it plans to start covering the mass protests on Wall Street in lower Manhattan “as soon as the Michael Jackson trial is over.”

And Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry today blasted President Obama’s decision to kill a terrorist in Yemen: “There are plenty of perfectly good people to execute right here in America.”

Poll: In Head-to-Head Matchup, Obama Who Ran in 2008 Would Trounce Current Obama

2011-09-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

Popularity of Old Obama Spells Trouble for New One

WASHINGTON (The Borowitz Report) – According to a new poll of likely Democratic voters, if a primary contest were held today between the Barack Obama who ran for President in 2008 and the current Obama, the Old Obama would beat the New Obama by a margin of three to one.

While the numbers reflect the enduring popularity of the 2008 Obama, they spell big trouble for the 2011 Obama, who is seeking reelection in 2012.

Most troubling for the President, a significant number of voters -- nearly twenty-five percent -- no longer believe that the 2008 Obama and the current Obama are the same person.

At the White House, press secretary Jay Carney attempted to silence the skepticism of the so-called “Differenters,” the growing movement of people who believe that the 2008 Obama and the current one are two completely different men.

“The President has said that he is willing to submit to a DNA test and he will be releasing a Certificate of Authenticity later this week,” Mr. Carney said. “Beyond that, we’re just going to have to take his word for it.”

In other political news, Texas Governor Rick Perry said today that he would participate in future Republican debates only if they were “open book.”

At a rally in South Carolina, Gov. Perry explained why he was uniquely qualified to be President: “The way I understand it, the main job of the executive branch is executing people.”

Pat Robertson Says Falling Satellite Means God Thinks Satellites are Gay

2011-09-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

Warns NASA Against Launching Future Gay Objects

VIRGINIA BEACH (The Borowitz Report) – Evangelist Pat Robertson sparked controversy in today’s broadcast of his 700 Club program by saying that the NASA satellite that plummeted to Earth did so “because God thinks satellites are gay.”

“We have to remember that the heavens are where God lives,” Rev. Robertson said during the broadcast. “If we launch something into outer space that God thinks is gay, He’s going to kick it right back to us.”

Mr. Robertson offered little evidence as to why God might think the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite was gay, but said, “It does have, I believe, a big telescope sticking out of it and I can see why God would not want that in His face.”

He added that the falling satellite “should serve as a warning to NASA not to launch other gay objects into space.”

The televangelist’s remarks were abruptly cut short when a large piece of metal debris crashed through the roof of his television studio and landed squarely on his head.

Microsoft Is Mediocre

2011-09-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

[Click image to enlarge.]

Here we are with an "upgraded 'blue screen of death' ." The sad-face emoticon empathizes with the user. The original blue screen simply had no text or graphic display. This blue screen of death often results from a memory management issue for which Microsoft's operating system is infamous.

Random Access Memory (RAM) chips hold information the computer needs while executing code. Eventually that information is no longer needed and should be flushed to make room for new information that can require a large amount of RAM's capacity. Sometimes old data is not flushed from RAM, thus "short sheeting" the RAM bed. Thus: the blue screen of death. (Restarting flushes the RAM.)

Mac owners are not immune to memory management problems; yet, these occur far less frequently than those for PC users. And when they do, the application they are using will unexpectedly quit. However, the Mac OS X operating system remains open and robust.

Consider that Windoze (the software) must operate over a number of different computers (the hardware). Hardware configuration can be different, machine to machine. The Mac's operating system (software) is married to the computer (hardware). This superior 'bonding' (if you will) provides a more stable user experience.

That said, Microsoft possibly has the best operating system for PCs when comparing prior Windows iterations. Linux buffs would argue that point as to the superior operating system for PCs.

PC sales are in a negative, downward trend until you include Macs in the mix. Macintosh sales continue to climb in a financially recessive economy. No surprise there when considering Mac's superiority in function and user friendliness. There is no price advantage with a PC once you add the features and peripherals that Mac simply comes with.

Switching to Mac from PC is easy.

Optimum Optimization

2011-09-13T00:05:00.000-07:00

[Click above image to enlarge for viewing.]

After having my OS X Lion upgrade running for several weeks I decided to check out Micromat's site for an upgrade to its Tech Tool Pro application. Their app is a full-on diagnostics tool and disk optimization utility.

I was surprised to find that my version 4 could be upgraded to version 6. How did I miss the fifth version? Somehow I did; yet, still got the $40 upgrade price. Ensuring that my Mac's volume directory is "glitch free" is vital to avoiding a hard disk drive crash caused by broken file allocation links.

In the past I have sometimes needed to repair volume structures. Monthly diagnostics keeps things easily corrected when a problem is reported.

The next step is file optimization to stitch together all fragmented files. Next I perform volume optimization to get all free space into a contiguous array. The operating system requires a specific amount of contiguous free space. Full optimization prevents continuous build-up of fragmentation that will eventually stonewall the proper function of the operating system.

Tech Tool Pro is highly rated for its solid dependability. I have used it for years and am pleased to have upgraded today.

Weather Or Not

2011-08-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

When air conditioning fails our home environment feels like an oven. Shirley's heart condition pushes our repair status into 'emergency' mode. On Sunday the failure was impending.

We called our home warranty service on Sunday because the compressor's fan motor was screeching and chirping. The unit was still cooling our home so we were not having emergency conditions. On Monday morning a neighbor kindly asked if we were aware that our AC unit was making noise. We explained that we had already called for repair.

In mid-afternoon the unit's fan had stopped. We called the warranty company to explain our emergency. They checked with the assigned servicer — who had not yet contacted us — and learned that it would still be Thursday before they could help us on an emergency basis.

Warranty company cancelled the service order with that company and found a shop who could have someone here next morning. I spoke with the repair person who now has some history about our unit and situation.

Hopefully we will have some cooling by early afternoon.

Last week our triple-digits reached 109°F. Yesterday we just hit the triple-digit mark and should once again do that today. Temperatures moderated enough last night to allow comfortable sleep with windows open and house fans working at full speed.

How easily we take our comfort for granted when air conditioning functions properly. Even without health problems everyone wants to escape the discomfort of high heat in their environment. All AC repair shops are being hit hard with service requests as scorching temperatures challenge home AC units.

Hope y'all are comfortable in your homes.

Liam Elija Crawford

2011-08-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

Adoption Is About Love

James & Stephanie Crawford (youngest son and his wife) have been in the adoption process for a few years. Last month a birth mother selected their profile from among several. Next she met them and that sealed the deal.

Yesterday Liam was born by C-section and the bonding has begun. Liam may be released from the hospital today. The biological mother will sign a release 7 days after the birth and will have three days after signing to still change her mind.

However, the birth mother states she would not create false hope with James and Stephanie, and will clearly not change her mind. We expect that Liam will find wonderful, loving, caring parents in James and Stephanie.

Gas Prices Rising More Slowly, Might Have Peaked

2011-04-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

We are up to $4.30 per gallon I am ready for a reversal. Last fill-up costed me $64 plus change. Not good. Are you doing less driving?

Slim Pickin's

2011-04-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

The jet tip for my WaterPik broke in two. No problem… replacement should be easy. Or, so I thought.

A stop at Wal-Mart seemed to be the best choice; yet, a search for my item turned up nothing. OK. No big deal. CVS Pharmacy was on the way home. Alas, no luck there.

Not to worry. RiteAid was just up the street a ways. Again, futility. Being somewhat a resourceful person I figured Walgreens would satisfy my need and should now be worth the extra mileage to get there. Batting 1000 boys and girls.

Finally I drove another distance to Target. Aaarg… ! No store carried the WaterPik Jet Tip replacements.

So a digital trip to Amazon.Com rewarded me with a set of two for just $10.99. That is nearly a 50% savings from regular retail.

Meantime I will use my special brush tip. However, I believe the jet tip does a better job between teeth.

End Of World Alert

2011-03-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

Sign Giving Warning

Pamphlet With Literature

Just as any past "end of world" and "judgment day" prediction part of the issue is that people sell their homes and belongings in the belief they will not need them. Apparently many have quit their jobs to join the caravan that travels nation-wide to spread the news.

I truly hate to see people put themselves into such a negative position. Even the Bible notes that no man knows the day of God's judgment. How do these people fail to understand that?

FAA OKs iPad for Pilots’ Charts

2011-02-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

"From the earliest days of aviation, pilots have relied upon paper maps to help find their way. Even in an era of GPS and advanced avionics, you still see pilots lugging around 20 pounds or more of charts. But those days are numbered, because maps are giving way to iPads."

No surprise that an app. for Apple's iPad can easily assist aviators.

I have seen one app. that works with our GPS locations to support astronomy. Holding the iPad up to the sky — anywhere — reveals constellations and planets. Tapping one of a constellation's stars or an identified planet allows the viewer to get information about it. Awesome and entertaining (and educational).

The Kindle app. for iPad will obviate my need for a reading light while in bed at night. Yep… I plan to purchase the iPad 2 once it gets released.

New Disrespect

2011-02-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

Gas Pains Return

2011-02-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

Locally the Chevron where I fuel up is charging $3.69 per gallon. The Union 76 here is up to $3.95. Last evening Jay Lenno claimed he paid $4.50 per gallon in Los Angeles.

We folks will be paying $5 before long. California gasoline runs a bit higher than our country's average due to required additives.

Now is the time to cut back on trips and plan errands to combine them in a single outing. This will mean not running out when I go to the refrigerator for something, find it gone, and immediately want to dash to the store. And it is definitely time to not rush when using the freeway. I had ended my 60 mph speeds, opting to do 65 most of the time. Occasionally I would rush and hit 70 mph.

Hopefully everyone (or mostly everyone) will now begin to slow down on the Interstate highways. Last time we were paying high dollar at the pump there were always fewer automobiles on the road.

Monster of Libya

2011-02-23T05:09:00.000-08:00

His political hold on Libya in near-collapse, this tyrant has proved himself the megalomaniac that he is purported to be. We likely can hold our breath because it will all soon be over for Qaddafi.

Libya Protests Spread As Barrier Of Fear Crumbles

2011-02-21T22:00:00.000-08:00

" Col. Qaddafi’s 41-year reign in oil-rich Libya, a country sandwiched between Egypt and Tunisia, is now looking very shaky."

The dictators of Tunisia and Egypt, northwest and eastern neighbors to Libya respectively, have been recently toppled. It appears that Libya is on the brink of takeover. Qaddafi will not last the week, IMO.

Super Size Me

2011-02-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

We are what we eat.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

Motorized Pedal Exerciser

2011-02-11T14:04:00.000-08:00

Shirley has been advised by her physical therapist to get a bike (stationary type acceptable) that she can pedal to help with mobility. She saw the above item in a catalog book for $169.99. With shipping we add $16.99 (for a total of $186.98).

Amazon's price is $95.54 with 2-day shipping for $23.85 (for a total of $119.39). That is nearly a $68 savings plus an upgrade from standard shipping.

Its weight is 12.5 lb., so I have some concern about how stable this unit will be. It comes with a non-slip mat which may be very helpful in steadying this unit.

Arriving Tuesday.

The Will Of The People — Ignored

2011-02-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

The masses gathered in Cairo on Freedom Square are demanding that both Mubarak and his regime step down immediately.

Today at around 2100 GMT Mubarak appeared on Egyptian TV, announcing, in so many words, he will not be stepping down. The initial tone of the crowd being quiet and holding hopeful expectations swelled to anger and loudly chanting "go go, leave leave."

Is Mubarak that out of touch with the mood of the masses? Did he truly believe he was going to quiet the demands for his immediately vacating his presidency? He failed to lift Egypt's Emergency Law. It appears that the situation going forward will only get uglier.

Mom Killed Crying Baby For Interrupting Facebook Game

2011-02-04T17:02:00.000-08:00

A 22-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to shaking her baby to death for crying while she was playing [Farmville] on Facebook is going to prison for a long time.

Alexandra V. Tobias was sentenced to 50 years in prison Tuesday afternoon -- the maximum penalty on the second-degree murder charge.

Tobias was arrested after her 3-month-old son, Dylan Lee Edmondson, died last January.

Prosecutors said Tobias admitted to becoming angry because the baby would not stop crying while she was playing Farmville on Facebook.

"I am trying to say this is not a plea about pity. I'm asking for mercy," Tobias told the judge before he sentenced her.

"I realize I do deserve consequences, but the death of my son is a life sentence in itself. So could you please consider that I am still young and I have ambitions, potential, hopes and dreams."

Of course, her son will never grow to have ambitions, hopes, and dreams. He will never accomplish anything based on his potential. Selfish is as selfish does. She will not be treated nicely by fellow inmates.

Interesting Take On A Controversial Issue

2011-02-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

Day of Departure Demonstrations

2011-02-04T02:07:00.000-08:00

Abandon FoxNoise and tune in Al Jazeera for fair and balanced coverage on Egypt.

One can easily see that Mubarak is hanging in effigy above the gathering masses. Hundreds of thousands of anti-Mubarak demonstrators are passing through army checkpoints into Tahrir Square once their IDs are examined.

An historic day in the Arab world.

EPA To Set Limits On Chemicals In Drinking Water

2011-02-02T06:48:00.000-08:00

"The Environmental Protection Agency will set a limit on the amount of the chemical perchlorate, as well as other 'toxic contaminants,' in drinking water, it announced Wednesday.

"In addition, the EPA is also establishing a drinking water standard on 'a group of up to 16 other toxic chemicals that may cause cancer and pose serious risks to human health,' the statement said.

"The chemicals are a group of volatile organic compounds, such as industrial solvents, and include trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene, along with other regulated and some unregulated substances 'discharged from industrial operations'."

There is obviously a danger posed when regulations have not caught up to the need to further clean up water supplies.

This family's attention to clean water issues has increased to a level of extreme caution and concern in the past few months.

I purchased a Sprite shower filter for our middle son, James, and his wife, Stephanie, the other day. Both notice a difference with the removal of chlorine and Stephanie was raving about how nice her hair felt after shampooing, rinsing, and drying. Chlorine in shower water is absorbed by our skin, and chlorine vapors are inhaled. Both situations are undesirable and preventable.

We have been using the shower filter in our home for a couple months and are extremely pleased with the results.

The AquaLiv Components

2011-01-30T22:37:00.000-08:00

Here is the set of AquaLiv components that provide the healthful water we have been experiencing for a little better than a month. Today my oldest son John installed the AquaLiv System at his brother and sister-in-laws' home. An eye-opening explanation on water science is available here.

This set-up includes an optional filter that removes fluoride and arsenic. The photo above shows how neatly everything installed, occupying only half the space under our kitchen sink. Today's installation at David and Lupes' is quite similar to ours.

In this coming week John will install an AquaLiv system at his other brother and sister-in-laws' home. David and Lupe were thrilled to get their system today, and James and Stephanie are looking forward to having theirs.

One very amazing thing about water from this is system is how easily we all can drink a pint (even two pints) and never feel bloated or uncomfortably full. I wish everyone could have an AquaLiv system.

Shower Filters

2011-01-25T15:58:00.000-08:00

Sprite Industries

Shower Chlorine-Free with Sprite. Chlorine is universally used to disinfect water, killing bacteria and other microorganisms. But once it arrives in your home, chlorine can negatively affect you family's long-term health, comfort and even personal appearance. Sprite Shower Filters with patented Chlorgon non-carbon media - outperform other filters for chlorine removal in hot shower conditions. The world leader in shower filtration technology for 15 years, Sprite has earned more than 18 U.S. and international patents.

For Softer Hair and Smoother Skin. Millions own water filters to remove chlorine from drinking water. But 50% of chlorine exposure occurs in the shower. Unfiltered shower water can double their exposure to chlorine by absorption through the skin and by inhalation of chlorine vapors. Sprite filters chlorine for softer hair and smoother skin. Now you can fight brittle hair, dry skin and dandruff - where health and beauty begin - right in your shower.

Breathe easier with Sprite. Chlorine vaporizes in hot shower water and, when inhaled in the lungs, is transferred into the blood stream. Scientific studies have linked chlorinated water to potentially harmful by-products that can, over time, contribute to such health-threatening conditions as cancer of the bladder, liver, stomach and colon. Heart disease, high blood pressure and allergies have also been linked with chlorine. Sprite Shower Filtration helps reduce these risks - so you can breathe easier.

For Today's Healthy Home. Shower filtration by Sprite is a logical addition for people concerned about home environmental issues including the quality of water and air in their homes. Help protect your home's personal environment and entire family with a Sprite filter in every shower.

The Future Is Now

2011-01-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

At 4:15 p.m. — after five hours incubation — a new batch of yogurt will be ready. I will transfer it into a container, place it in the refrigerator. This is a bulk product after adding 2 tablespoons starter to one liter of prepared milk, stirring well, and launching my yogurt project.

Shirley and John each take a glassful of yogurt to work every day. However, there are only 7 glasses. So the bulk yogurt can be put in cleaned glasses to get them through the week.

Needless to say, I am eager to try out this new batch. It will need to chill in the refrigerator for an hour before enjoying some.

Is This In My Future?

2011-01-17T22:15:00.000-08:00

Currently I am making another batch of yogurt. This time I have used an ultra-pasteurized organic milk. The dairy's cattle freely graze on grass, are not corn-fed. Meat and dairy products from grass-fed cattle is said to have a good kind of trans-fat. The yogurt I use as starter for the new culture is an organic product.

The next step for me may be to graduate to a large yogurt maker. It makes, in bulk, 2 quarts of product. A double-walled construction — presenting a 'cylinder of water' — provides even heating with an incubation time of half that as for my '7 single-servings' maker.

The positive reviews given this item are very compelling. I believe that it will be smart to include yogurt daily in my diet. I love the flavor plain; therefore, can avoid always adding sugary fruits. Yet, I have been throwing in frozen blueberries occasionally. Yummy, healthy treat both ways.

Gadget Freakism

2011-01-16T17:50:00.000-08:00

Logitech offers this incredibly inexpensive (cheap) sound system. I want a sub-woofer for my bedroom television sound. One buyer noted distortion when the sound gets cranked up. Well… that's not going to happen. I simply want a nice bass sound when viewing a program or DVD on our bedroom TV. And I always keep the volume relatively low.

Global Warning

2011-01-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

Still not full daylight and the 41° temperature is temporary. Yesterday we climbed into the 80s. January can present some balmy days when there is full sunshine; however, these warmer January days are new to me.

No complaints about these comfortable days. Too bad it is not like this year-round. Summer's triple-digit heat is awful.

Probiotics for Health

2011-01-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

European Yogurt Maker

This $40 item is on my 'wish list' at Amazon.com and will be ordered next week. A yogurt culture is now on its way. Another method is to add store-bought yogurt (containing live culture) to heated whole milk. The mixed product is maintained at a low temperature for several hours. Said to be mighty delicious.

Shirley likes fruit mixed in, so any kind of fruit preserves should work perfectly well. I suspect that once I start Shirley on this she will not want to go back to yogurt off the grocery store shelf. Imagine adding strawberry preserves and some ripe banana slices to this home-made treat.

BTW, Shirley continues to drink around 95 ounces of water from our AquaLiv system daily. Initially she noticed that never did she get fluid-overload from extra water consumption and she lost 7 pounds (water weight I am sure). As well, recently she stopped her evening Lasix dose, taking only the morning medication without untoward results.

As for me, I continue consuming six pints daily and have had to reduce my evening Lantus insulin dose. And I feel better overall since starting hydration with better water.

The GPS Device Mount

2011-01-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

The GPS Bird

The GPS Receiver

The GPS Device Vent Mount

At least three satellites are needed to triangulate the receiver's position on the ground. The software in Garmin's Nuvi relates the positioning coordinates to its installed map set.

In California it is not legal to attach a GPS device to one's windshield. A suction cup mounting attaches to windshield glass or a metal disk that adheres to the dashboard. For less than ten dollars we went with a vent mount that ensures good viewing of the Nuvi and using the device legally.

GPS navigation is a wonderful technology. On two occasions I recently got directions to a destination that I would have otherwise needed MapQuest or Google Maps to provide prior to my beginning my trip. In one instance I was already in another community and my Garmin eliminated any stress about the best way for me to proceed.

Yes, I am a gadget freak; yet, its initial cost makes my Nuvi one of my best purchases of 2010.

Memories

2011-01-01T11:17:00.000-08:00

My ID badge triggered the time clock for start and end of work day. It provided access to and from stairways. The badge is our 'key' for entry most everywhere in the facility, and even the gate for secured parking.

Associated with our Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) all department safety reps had a card that would be placed directly behind his or her ID badge. I had the pleasure of chairing our IIPP Taskforce, a sub-committee of ARMC's Safety Committee.

My California State License is due to expire in August, 2011. However, it might as well expire this month of January. That was $220 bi-annually which I will not need to pay this year.

I have thirty-four years of terrific memories, and leave my job with a sense of pride and satisfaction with regard to my employment experiences.

I am investing in 'Internet Advertising Affiliation' right away. I cannot be bored after retirement with nothing to do.

This is a happy start of a Happy New Year because today — New Year's Day — is my outdate. Yes, my first day of retirement.

Wishing The Best ForYou

2010-12-31T20:12:00.000-08:00

nüvi® 255W

2010-12-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

Regularly $169.99, on sale at Best Buy for $79.99. I could not pass it up. I unpackaged the device once I got into my car on the Best Buy parking lot. I set my home address for directions and enjoyed my GPS navigator's performance.

Son James loaned us his Garmin for our summer vacation and I have wanted one since. However, I needed the price to come down. I saw the sale price online and hoped they would not have all been snatched up as I drove to my destination.

New York Grill is on Ontario Mills Road. Shirley and I have gift certificates for that place and we plan to do a Christmas dinner there. Now we will get turn-by-turn voice directions and a very nice map graphic to lead us.

I still cannot believe my $90 saving

Water That Truly Supports Health

2010-12-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

Under our kitchen sink the water supply feeds the double-ganged white bracketed filters. The furthest filter is optional, removing fluoride and arsenic. This is MODULE ONE. The modules are in series, each with its important function:

Function : Purification

Stage One : 5-micron Carbon Block

As the first purification element, performs bulk purification duties. Filters out all particles and microbes greater the 5 microns in size. Adsorbs contaminates.

Stage Two : KDF-55

Removes heavy metals if present.

Stage Three : GAC (Granular Activated Carbon) (coconut- standard models, BC- fluoride models)

Standard Model- Adsorbs remaining contaminates, if any, and polishes flavor.
Fluoride Model- Adsorbs Fluoride and Arsenic. Adsorbs remaining contaminates, if any, and polishes flavor.

MODULE TWO

Function : Enhancement

Overview : Purified water is stripped of accumulated bioinformation (memory) while surface tension and oxidative capacity are reduced. Molecule to molecule bonding structure is reduced into the micro-clustered range. Bio-energy and dissolved oxygen are increased.

MODULE THREE

Function : Purification

Stage One : .5-micron Carbon Block

Polishes taste and removes particles and microbes greater than .5 microns in size, if any. Adsorbs contaminates, if any.

MODULE FOUR

Function : Enhancement

Overview : Like water cascading down a mountain stream, Module Four further increases bio-energy and dissolved oxygen while introducing the bioinformation of minerals and trace minerals. Molecule to molecule bonding structure is reduced into the hexagonal range (true structured water).

THE RESULT

Nature's most perfect water- direct from your tap!

Don't Blink

2010-12-12T11:04:00.000-08:00

It's Almost Here — One Short Week Remaining

Global Warming

2010-12-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

As we approach mid-December it seems incredible that we could get a very warm day this weekend. My first visit to California in the 60s was during winter. I then marveled at having short-sleeve weather during daytime in spite of very chill nights.

Even in present times I can be surprised and pleased when we get balmy days in winter. Colour me spoiled.

Countdown

2010-11-18T17:41:00.000-08:00

Final Month Before Retirement

Signed Retirement Papers On Tuesday – December 7th

Ready To Roll

2010-11-15T19:23:00.000-08:00

I am not counting the days. The date is too close. On December 7th I sign my retirement papers. My retirement date is January 1, 2011, a Saturday.

Along with my papers I have the certified copies of Shirley's and my marriage certificate and each of our birth certificates.

There are 'loose ends' to tie up before leaving my job. Data management using FileMaker Pro for various information solutions within my department will be taken over by our Assistant Director of Respiratory Care. There are other duties that I perform which must be continued by others.

As the Chair of ARMC's Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) Taskforce there are responsibilities that will fall back on our institution's Safety Officer. The data management solution for IIPP is being transferred to our IM department. They will export our data that had been managed using FileMaker Pro to MS-SQL.

So that is pretty much why I am not counting the days. All my time is being spent getting ready to hand everything over to others. January 1st will be here before we know it. YES!

The Frontal Cortex — Jonah Lehrer's Science bLog in Wired Magazine

2010-11-13T13:10:00.000-08:00

Why Making Dinner Is a Good Idea

How We Decide,

How We Decide

Simply click on this post's title to get to Jonah's bLog post.

Weather Station With Atomic Time Keeping

2010-11-09T01:29:00.000-08:00

When I purchased ours a few years ago Shirley said it was a waste of money. I will admit that the idea of automated time accuracy attracted me. The time display is always correct, plus or minus 1 second. Its accuracy is due to a broadcast signal from our US Naval Observatory Alternate Master Clock, Colorado Springs, CO. At 2:00 a.m. each day our clock activates its receiver to capture the time broadcast signal. Thus, the display never strays from the correct time.

Yet, another feature attracted Shirley's interest quite early on. A remote sensor located on our car port reports the outdoor temperature to the indoor display. In fact we see both indoor and outdoor temperatures simultaneously. Shirley will check the outdoor temperature display to determine whether she will need a jacket before venturing out, for example.

Whenever Shirley decides to check the outdoor temp she does so quite easily. Sometimes I hear about how hot the day is getting in summer or how cold it is becoming in winter. Never again have I heard a complaint about the cost of our device. It has been worth the approximate $40 we gave for it.

One more thing. Because we get automated time accuracy, the time and date for springing forward into Daylight Saving Time is programmed on an internal memory chip. Accordingly, when the time / date arrives to fall back it happens as well. The chip can be switched off for areas that do not observe Daylight Saving Time (e.g. Arizona).

One of these days I shall replace the kitchen clock with an atomic clock. I still must change the time in my car and on the microwave oven. One day that will change I am sure.

I am looking toward retirement. My sense of importance will be severely diminished when I am no longer needed to run around the house twice a year to ensure that all clocks are set properly. Then again, retiring from that might be a good thing.

Another Change Of Life

2010-11-08T02:28:00.000-08:00

Our county retirement program is rated one of the best. As our new year begins —2011 — I hope to be in retirement mode. It is a time in my life when I no longer will make my daily commute to work each weekday. I will miss the people with whom I associate regularly. However, I expect to enjoy the change of pace.

My twin has been in retirement for several years. He seems to stay busy because there are many grandchildren who are capable of occupying his time. That will not be the same scenario for me. Yet, I expect to find ways to stay active.

Extra Hour Of Sleep, Or…

2010-11-07T01:25:00.000-07:00

Those who work tonight get an extra hour to produce. Many get paid for that hour, others do not. In the morning some who forgot to move their time back an hour will be early for work. As for me, it is an additional hour of sleep.

Daylight Saving Time seems to be helpful in that summer evenings have daylight later. Some people could not care less about it. It would be interesting to list all of the cons given about Daylight Saving Time.

Can you imagine how Apple messed up with its iPhone not automatically jumping back an hour tonight when the clock strikes 2:00 a.m.? Egg on Apple's face. I'll bet Steve Jobs is pissed at someone.

Organic Ethiopian Fair Trade Coffee

2010-11-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

"Ola's Exotic Coffee is specialized as a variety of African controlled and well-harvested coffee from the fertile mountains and lakes of the African continent. Our selected wild African coffees rival or surpass any arabica or robusta coffee beans around the world both in taste and appearance.

"Ola’s Exotic Coffee beans are from Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Cameroon, African Organic FT and other West and South African countries."

The Organic Ethiopian Fair Trade Coffee I purchased at Sam's Club is a 2-lb package for $20.44. A bargain price and a tasty coffee. I was pleasantly surprised. Old Bisbee has raised its price to $14 per pound. Ola's averages $10.22 per pound. Ola's is not roasted until the beans reach California.

Study: Alcohol 'Most Harmful Drug', Followed By Crack And Heroin

2010-11-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

"Alcohol ranks 'most harmful' among a list of 20 drugs — beating out crack and heroin — according to study results released by a British medical journal.

"A panel of experts weighed the physical, psychological and social problems caused by the drugs and determined that alcohol was the most harmful overall, according to an article on the study released by The Lancet Sunday."

Beer brewers do not want California's Prop 19 to pass. It will potentially hurt their business.

California Governor's Race

2010-11-01T01:04:00.000-07:00

The best move for Meg Whitman is to have no more attack-ads against Jerry Brown. If she says the right things that are apt to win the hearts of voters she might have a chance.

Otherwise, Jerry Brown maintains a slight margin ahead of Whitman in the Rasmussen Poll. Should Brown pick up the 'fence sitters' then that bodes well for him.

Those who claim they are "not sure" would be leaning toward one of the candidates rather than be entirely neutral, IMO.

My ballot has been mailed. I do favor Jerry Brown. He was elected twice as California's Governor between 1975 and 1983. As I recall, Jerry Brown never had a poor approval rating. Brown knows how to navigate Sacramento, whereas, Whitman has absolutely no political experience.

Screwy

2010-10-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

–adjective, screw·i·er, screw·i·est. Slang .

crazy; nutty

disconcertingly strange

absurdly peculiar or impractical; ridiculous

Every definition fits. How so?

In the past four years we have had our current phone number. Yet, calls for Martha Diaz still occur. Granted they are not arriving as fast and furious as in the first several months. Still, not one month goes by that we do not get a call for Martha Diaz.

People promise to remove our number from their calling list. It appears they do that. Apparently new callers have a reason to call and request to speak with Martha Diaz. Perhaps a collection agency has bought up old accounts from another agency and is making their effort to collect a bad debt.

This has gone beyond "annoying." I would miss the humor (yes, humor) of it if the calls were to stop. It is insanely (i.e., subconsciously driving me crazy) funny. Does Martha know just how [in]famous she has become? I wish there was a way to determine the answer to that question.

What condition exists in the society whereby callers attempt to reach someone at a phone number unlinked to that someone for four years. That is 1,461 days (counting an extra day in a leap year).

Screwy?

GE Buying ‘Tens of Thousands’ of EVs

2010-10-29T14:51:00.000-07:00

"It makes sense that a company called General Electric would be bullish on cars with cords. But even by that standard the company is diving into the deep end, with what it says will be the biggest order ever placed for electric vehicles."

We definitely need a ubiquitous charging infrastructure. How wonderful it will be to year-after-year continue to reduce our nation's reliance on fossil fuel.

In due time everyone will find an electric car affordable.

12 [Minus 1] Awesome Airplane Paint Jobs

2010-10-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

Click On A Photo To Enlarge

Colorado Wildfire Spreads To Moon

2010-10-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

Facebook Founders Put $170,000 Into [Pot] Pot

2010-10-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

"According to Proposition 19 campaign filings, reported by ABC News, Sean Parker, he of the nasal infractions in "The Social Network," has donated $100,000 to this California ballot measure that seeks to legalize pot in the state.

"He is following the lead of his fellow Facebook co-founder, Dustin Moskovitz, who reportedly already donated $70,000 to support the same cause."

Decriminalization of marijuana possession and the legal protection for growing cannabis is good. This opens the door for local state governments to tax the possession, cultivation, and transportation of the substance.

Marijuana is already California's largest cash crop.

iPod Shuffle

2010-10-03T04:28:00.000-07:00

Give your songs a voice.

Say you’re listening to a song and want to know the title or the artist. Just press the new VoiceOver button on top of your iPod shuffle, and it tells you. You can even use VoiceOver to hear the names of playlists and switch between them. And if your battery needs charging, VoiceOver tells you that, too.

It speaks your language.

A French love song. A Spanish bolero. An Italian cantata. Your music library has songs from all over the world. That’s why VoiceOver speaks 25 different languages. So it can tell you song titles and artists in their native tongues or any language you choose.

Mine for only $49.

Hands For Good Health

2010-10-01T21:08:00.000-07:00

Click above image and view from the YouTube site.

PUR® 3 Stage Horizontal Mount Faucet Water Filter

2010-09-26T18:01:00.000-07:00

Provides up to 100 gallons of clean water with the flick of switch…

Built-in Electronic Filter Life Indicator simplifies filter replacement.
Each PUR filter provides up to 100 gallons of clean water, and the built-in indicator flashes green (go), yellow (close to change time) or red (change filter) so you'll always know when it's time for a replacement filter.

The filters cost around $8 each. We can buy distilled water in 2.5 gallons containers. The cost is $1.12 per gallon. However, to get one-hundred gallons from a filter comes to 8.3¢ per gallon.

I am on my second cup of coffee with this filtered water without wishing I was back to distilled from the container. How long between filter changes? The label claims it would be around three months of filter service. That, of course, is an estimate based on average use. Yet, it does not matter because one-hundred gallons is one-hundred gallons. The choice for savings is a no-brainer.

Laser Pointer Purchase — It Was Easy — Not

2010-09-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

How easy should it be to find a laser pointer? Best Buy had the technology built in to a hand-held device that could support advancing and back-tracking the slides in a video presentation. I have seen only one of those and the laser beam was weak. And I needed only the pointer.

Best Buy people who were standing around made no effort to assist me in finding a device. Two of them said I "might" find a laser pointer in the 'computers' section. My immediate recollection of Circuit City staff walking me to an isle and then helping me search came to mind. Sad comparison.

I had to go back to one of those staff and request a little more assistance. She asked if I wanted to find the item in the store. I told her I had not planned to look outside the store. Obviously if I wanted their online retail method I would have remained at home and done that.

Wal-Mart! I just knew that Wal-Mart would have it. An employee there pointed me in a direction and said look where the stationery items are displayed. Nothing there. I elected to not search further because I expected a bit better support in trying to find something.

Office Depot had only one model of Quartet's product. It is their 'Class 3A' standard laser pointer. Red in color spectrum and quite powerful. It will be perfect for my needs. I do some instructing of our Safety presentations at work and the pointer from Education Development is not always available. Nor is it as strong.

The cost was $22 after tax. Similarly priced (as well as less costly) laser pointers at the online venues had reviews whose pros were consistently balanced with cons. It was hard to believe that two people were talking about the same product. I elected not to go that route.

So, yes, I am happy with my purchase. I have a strong red laser beam that will work perfectly, and the item's price shouts "bang for the buck."

Clarified: What does "genetically modified" salmon mean?

2010-09-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

Photo: AquAdvantage® Salmon in the background; a non-GMO Atlantic salmon of the same age in the foreground.

" 'AquAdvantage® Salmon' grow into full-sized fish in half the time that it would take a regular salmon, and if approved, would become the first 'transgenic' or genetically engineered animals to be approved for human consumption."

Below is a poll result asking those surveyed if they would eat genetically modified salmon. I believe I would wait to see how others fared over several years of consumption. Clearly half of those people said 'Never'.

Protecting My Kindle

2010-09-17T01:58:00.000-07:00

Highbrow protection (above) versus basic inexpensive safeguard (below).

Whooda thought? The written evaluations by a Wired publications author pointed out that the commercially available Kindle cases all have their pros and cons. Then this guy points out a solution by one of his acquaintances that costs next to nothing and gets the job done.

I shall gladly give this method a try. I believe the bubble envelopes in various sizes are available individually at Wal-Mart. w0w… I almost spent $35 for the leather case. Reading the article was rather eye-opening.

2010-09-12T22:59:00.000-07:00

Product Features

Latest technology for strengthening and protecting your teeth
MI Paste enhanced with a formula of sodium fluoride, calcium and phosphate
Helps to maintain a normal pH level and healthy teeth
Helps condition, protect and rebuild your tooth surfaces
Releases vital minerals into your mouth when and where they re needed

My dental professional recommended this product to help relieve discomfort from a sensitive area at the base of a tooth. This is the second night of applying the paste. After reading several reviews from users I am encouraged.

Twin Brothers J David & E Craig Crawford

2010-09-04T10:49:00.000-07:00

Descendants of John R. Charlesworth 1st International Reunion — August 2010 — Dayton, Ohio

Front–Seated: Cousin Phil Charlesworth from UK. 2nd Row (L to R): Scott Charlesworth, Susan Hageman, Cathie Abkemeier, Virginia Salmons. 3rd Row (L to R): E Craig Crawford, J David Crawford, John B Williams.

The family reunion picnic was held in Dayton, Ohio at the beautiful Art Van Atta Park. There were approximately 80 people in attendance, including grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extra-extended of family members.

Shirley and I spent ten full days in Dayton, excluding the arrival and departure travel days. Our picnic day was one of several terrific vacation days that provided wonderful opportunities to spend time with family.

Between Iraq and a Hard Place

2010-09-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

Click to Enlarge Image

Nature's Beauty

2010-08-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

All the world is beautiful.

Bedtime Reading

2010-08-13T02:07:00.000-07:00

I will need a good reading light for my Kindle when I read at night. Once it arrives I shall order the night-light at a cost just under $20.
Product Description

"The Mighty Bright XtraFlex2 Light is a battery operated clamp-on accessory that is custom designed to illuminate your Kindle Wireless Reading device. Two Super LED lights in one head gives you the lighting power of 6 normal LEDs. You have the option of using one or two of the Super LED lights with just a simple tap of the proprietary sensor switch. The flexible neck allows you to position your lighting anywhere you want it. With the XtraFlex2, you can take your Kindle anywhere--in bed, on the bus or train, and have proper illumination at your fingertips."

The lens of this light eliminates the 'hot spots' seen with other reading light devices. I am looking forward to using this item. I wonder how often I will need to change its battery.

Academic Loans Consolidated

2010-08-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

Today's mail offered a letter from the people who administer student loans consolidations. The matter has moved forward to finalization in 10 days. Yes, my loans are nearly consolidated.

This means my approximate $250 per month payment will drop to $110. That will be nice. And my adjustable rate changes to a 2.5% interest that remains unchanged throughout the term of the loan.

This is great news.

Say Hello to the Newest Kindle DX

2010-08-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME

All New, High Contrast E-Ink Screen: Our graphite Kindle DX uses our all new, improved electronic ink display, with 50% better contrast for the clearest text and sharpest images

Beautiful Large Display: The 9.7" diagonal E-ink screen is ideal for a broad range of reading material, including graphic-rich books, PDFs, newspapers, magazines, and blogs

Read in Sunlight with No Glare: Unlike backlit computer or LCD screens, Kindle DX's display looks and reads like real paper, with no glare. Read as easily in bright sunlight as in your living room

Slim: Just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines

Books In Under 60 Seconds: Get books delivered wirelessly in less than 60 seconds; no PC required

Free 3G Wireless: No monthly payments, no annual contracts. Download books anywhere, anytime

Long Battery Life: Read for up to 1 week on a single charge with wireless on. Turn wireless off and read for two to three weeks.

Carry Your Library: Holds up to 3,500 books, periodicals, and documents

Buy Books Once, Read Them Anywhere: Kindle books can be read on all your devices. Our Whispersync technology saves and synchronizes your Kindle library and last page read across your Kindle(s), PC, iPhone, Mac, iPad, Android phone, and BlackBerry device

Social Networks: Share your passion for reading with friends and family by posting meaningful passages to Twitter and Facebook directly from your Kindle

Global Coverage: Enjoy 3G wireless coverage at home or abroad in over 100 countries. See details. Check wireless coverage map.

Built-In PDF Reader: Carry and read all of your personal and professional documents on the go. Now with Zoom capability to easily view small print and detailed tables or graphics

Auto-Rotating Screen: Display auto-rotates from portrait to landscape as you turn the device so you can view full-width maps, graphs, tables, and Web pages

Read-to-Me: With the text-to-speech feature, Kindle DX can read newspapers, magazines, blogs, and books out loud to you, unless the book's rights holder made the feature unavailable

Large Selection: Over 630,000 books and the largest selection of the most popular books people want to read, including 109 of 112 New York Times® Best Sellers, plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs. For non-U.S. customers, content availability and pricing will vary. Check your country.

Out-of-Copyright, Pre-1923 Books: Over 1.8 million free, out-of-copyright, pre-1923 books are available to read on Kindle, including titles such as The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Pride and Prejudice, and Treasure Island. Learn more

Low Book Prices: New York Times Best Sellers and New Releases from $9.99.

Free Book Samples: Download and read first chapters for free before you decide to buy

The Rogue

2010-07-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

My Jawbone Bluetooth headset was providing poor connection to the party on the other side of conversation. It may have been time for a 90-minute charge. However, I did not consider that when Shirley and I shopped for a replacement.

The new Jawbone technology not only cancels noise, it dampens the effect of wind. So Shirley decided to upgrade her headset as well. Hers was falling apart, if you will. Our new Jawbone devices are getting the initial full 90-minute charge. Yet, the literature states that the headset is partially charged when purchased and ready for use right out of the box.

We did the linking to our phones, then began the charging session. I did dial the home phone and spoke briefly with Shirley. The connection seemed crisper, clearer on the new device.

Delivers On Promise of Fresh Breath

2010-07-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Here is a product that seems to deliver on its promise. Whether it is used immediately after breakfast or at end of day, the result is fantastic. Of course, flossing and brushing precedes its use.

No more morning mouth. Not even a hint of unpleasant breath upon arising. Another product I have used is BreathRx. It does a superb job over the common consumer-level mouthwashes. Nonetheless, TheraBreath tops the list, in my opinion.

One testimonial stated, "I can't wait to tell my family dentist that he's wrong that Halitosis sufferers usually have it forever. It is preventable!"

TheraBreath is one product I will never hesitate to praise and recommend.