Coffee with the Hermit

Not A Pretty Sight...!

2012-01-28T00:05:00.008-06:00

Ready for some really strange plant pictures to go with your breakfast?

This is one strange looking plant, being both pretty and ugly at the same time! Mother Nature is a master at this sort of handiwork! Let me introduce you to...

Bleeding Tooth Fungus

The bleeding tooth fungus looks kind of like a wad of chewing gum that leaks blood like a rejected prop from The Shining.

They're also called the strawberries and cream, the red-juice tooth, and the devil's tooth. Whoever is in charge of naming scary bullshit seems really insistent that this thing looks like a tooth, while mostly skirting over the fact that it freaking sweats blood.

Oh, and they are listed as "inedible," which implies that someone attempted to eat one at some point. On the other hand, the bloodlike substance has anticoagulant and antibacterial properties. It's nature's next penicillin! All you have to do is lick it. Go ahead.

Read more: 10 Creepy Plants That Shouldn't Exist | Cracked.com http://www.cracked.com/article_18979_10-creepy-plants-that-shouldnt-exist.html#ixzz1kila04dx

I'm all in favor of some fresh coffee in the kitchen this morning. Got some home made fried pies with apple butter!

Let's Get Bombed...!

2012-01-27T00:05:00.002-06:00

Actually, we already did...and we did it to ourselves!

That's right! We actually dropped a bomb on ourselves, and it wasn't just any bomb either! This bad boy was a thermonuclear bomb! That's the kind that could make a real big impression on anyone within range! Here is the story behind this...taken from the archives of Now I Know!

The Mark 15 hydrogen bomb, pictured above is a thermonuclear bomb weighing a relatively light 7,600 pounds. It is roughly twelve feet long and three feet in diameter. Like most nuclear weapons, it can cause a great deal of destruction upon its detonation. Unlike most nuclear weapons, we managed to lose one.

On February 5, 1958, a B-47 bomber carrying a Mark 15 took off from Homestead Air Force Base near Florida’s southern tip. The B-47 was on a training run off the coast of Tybee Island, on the outskirts of Savannah, Georgia. But the mock mission went awry, as the bomber collided with an F-86 fighter jet also involved in the exercise. The F-68 was disabled and its pilot immediately ejected and survived. The B-47 was able to remain airborne, but was greatly damaged. Unable to guarantee a safe landing — a critical concern, given the plane’s payload — its pilot, Colonel Howard Richardson, proposed a solution: drop the bomb in the ocean.

And that is exactly what happened. Richardson, with permission from command, dropped the bomb from a distance of about 7,000 feet above sea level while traveling at over 200 miles per hour. The bomb landed in the ocean just off Tybee Island and, per Richardson, did not explode. The B-47 made an emergency landing at Hunter Army Air Field, and no one, miraculously, died. Richardson earned a medal for his cool-under-pressure performance in the skies.

But what ever happened to the bomb? No one knows. The day after the mid-air collision, Air Force and Naval recovery crews took to the seas to recover the jettisoned hydrogen bomb, but after a nine week search, they came back empty handed. Another recovery effort was made in 2001, but it, too, was unsuccessful. More recently, in 2004, another Air Force colonel asserted that he has narrowed down the location to an area roughly the size of a football field, by triangulating off heightened levels of radioactivity in the area. But to date, the bomb still sits somewhere in the ocean, unrecovered.

This may be by design. The Air Force asserts that the bomb is safer there than it would be if jostled, as they assert, the weapon lacks a plutonium trigger, which is requisite to creating an explosion. However, prior testimony from W.J. Howard, an Assistant Secretary of State suggests that this may be incorrect, and that the lost Mark 15 is, in Howard’s words, a “complete bomb.”

Now, doesn't that give you a warm and fuzzy feeling all over? Not only did we have to drop a nuclear bomb just off the coast of Georgia, but no one can find the blessed thing! Even with all the tech toys at the government's disposal, it still remains lost to this day!

I don't know about you, but I don't think I want to be living anywhere around Savannah, Georgia! Call me crazy, but I figure why take the chance, ya know?

Coffee on the patio this morning. Don't worry about the weather, it's cool but dry!

Happy Australia Day...!

2012-01-26T00:05:00.002-06:00

In many ways, the history of Australia and the U.S. are very similar .

I think we could almost consider Australia a sister country. I did a little study of the early years of Australia, and I have to admit I was fascinated. Here is a short history that you may enjoy reading!

Jan 26, 1788:

Australia Day

On January 26, 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip guides a fleet of 11 British ships carrying convicts to the colony of New South Wales, effectively founding Australia. After overcoming a period of hardship, the fledgling colony began to celebrate the anniversary of this date with great fanfare.

Australia, once known as New South Wales, was originally planned as a penal colony. In October 1786, the British government appointed Arthur Phillip captain of the HMS Sirius, and commissioned him to establish an agricultural work camp there for British convicts. With little idea of what he could expect from the mysterious and distant land, Phillip had great difficulty assembling the fleet that was to make the journey. His requests for more experienced farmers to assist the penal colony were repeatedly denied, and he was both poorly funded and outfitted. Nonetheless, accompanied by a small contingent of Marines and other officers, Phillip led his 1,000-strong party, of whom more than 700 were convicts, around Africa to the eastern side of Australia. In all, the voyage lasted eight months, claiming the deaths of some 30 men.

The first years of settlement were nearly disastrous. Cursed with poor soil, an unfamiliar climate and workers who were ignorant of farming, Phillip had great difficulty keeping the men alive. The colony was on the verge of outright starvation for several years, and the marines sent to keep order were not up to the task. Phillip, who proved to be a tough but fair-minded leader, persevered by appointing convicts to positions of responsibility and oversight. Floggings and hangings were commonplace, but so was egalitarianism. As Phillip said before leaving England: "In a new country there will be no slavery and hence no slaves."

Though Phillip returned to England in 1792, the colony became prosperous by the turn of the 19th century. Feeling a new sense of patriotism, the men began to rally around January 26 as their founding day. Historian Manning Clarke noted that in 1808 the men observed the "anniversary of the foundation of the colony" with "drinking and merriment."

Finally, in 1818, January 26 became an official holiday, marking the 30th anniversary of British settlement in Australia. And, as Australia became a sovereign nation, it became the national holiday known as Australia Day. Today, Australia Day serves both as a day of celebration for the founding of the white British settlement, and as a day of mourning for the Aborigines who were slowly dispossessed of their land as white colonization spread across the continent.

Looks to me as though we have another reason to celebrate! Not that many of us really need a reason to have a little party, ya know?

We'll have coffee in the kitchen this morning, because it still looks like it might rain some more! Happy Australia Day!

Too Close For Comfort...!

2012-01-25T00:05:00.004-06:00

You know, this happened in the not too distant past!

It may be that a simple oversight like this could bring down the whole house of cards the world governments have built over the years, only next time it will probably come from the middle East!

Just like the old saying goes, if we don't learn from our history we are more than likely going to repeat it!

Jan 25, 1995:

Near launching of Russian nukes

Russia's early-warning defense radar detects an unexpected missile launch near Norway, and Russian military command estimates the missile to be only minutes from impact on Moscow. Moments later, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, his defense minister, and his chief of staff were informed of the missile launch. The nuclear command systems switched to combat mode, and the nuclear suitcases carried by Yeltsin and his top commander were activated for the first time in the history of the Soviet-made weapons system. Five minutes after the launch detection, Russian command determined that the missile's impact point would be outside Russia's borders. Three more minutes passed, and Yeltsin was informed that the launching was likely not part of a surprise nuclear strike by Western nuclear submarines.

These conclusions came minutes before Yeltsin and his commanders should have ordered a nuclear response based on standard launch on warning protocols. Later, it was revealed that the missile, launched from Spitzbergen, Norway, was actually carrying instruments for scientific measurements. Nine days before, Norway had notified 35 countries, including Russia, of the exact details of the planned launch. The Russian Defense Ministry had received Norway's announcement but had neglected to inform the on-duty personnel at the early-warning center of the imminent launch. The event raised serious concerns about the quality of the former Soviet Union's nuclear systems.

I would like to thank the folks at History.com for reminding me of just how damned scary real life can be! I would hate to wake up dead from a nuclear attack, just because some meat-head somewhere didn't get the memo!

Before we go get our coffee, I'd like you to welcome a new blogger to our group! Please go by Life In Iowa and say hello to Sella, who is just getting started with her blog, OK? Thanks, guys!

Fresh coffee in the kitchen this morning. Cool and rainy outside, so the patio is no good!

Ol' George Was pretty Slick...!

2012-01-24T00:05:00.006-06:00

It could be that we could learn more from George Washington than we ever imagined!

I found some interesting information over at Listverse.com that pretty much surprised me! I think that Ol' george managed to put one over on the Congress, and for that you have to give him credit!

Fact: Washington cleverly tricked congress into paying him obscene amounts of money

First of all, this is what elementary schools teach about Washington: “Later, in 1775, at age 43, Washington was appointed military advisor for New York, defending it from British attack. A few weeks later he was appointed Commander-and-Chief of the entire American army. He did not ask for this position, and did not even ask to be paid for it. [...] The most important reason George was asked to be president was that he was very honest, and people both trusted and admired him. He was the most trusted, admired, and respected man in the whole country.”

Unfortunately what they miss entirely is the fact that he turned down a salary of what would have amounted to a little over 1,000 per month, but said: “Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress that as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to have accepted this arduous employment, I do not wish to make any profit from it. I will keep an exact account of my expenses. Those I doubt not they will discharge, and that is all I desire.”

And then the shopping began:

- To cash paid for Sadlery, a Letter Case, Maps, Glasses, &c &c &c. for the use of my Command… $831.45
- To sundry Exp.’s paid by myself at different times and places… on the Retreat of the Army thro’ the Jerseys into Pennsylvania & while there… $3,776
- From September 1775 to March 1776, Washington spent over six thousand dollars on liquor

In eight years, by turning down a salary and taking an expense account, instead of being paid around $12,000, he was paid $449,261.51 in 1780 dollars (around $4,250,000.00 in today’s money).

Washington, being a clever man, tried the same ploy when he was elected President but he was turned down and given a set salary of $25,000 per year. You can view scans of Washington’s expense account at the Library of Congress.

Looks like George figured out a way to get what he wanted and still look like a hero at the same time! Yep...Ol' George was a pretty slick man!

Fresh coffee in the kitchen again this morning. It's turning off a little chilly again! I have oven fresh cinnamon rolls...!

I Love These Things...!

2012-01-23T00:05:00.024-06:00

Even at my age, I can still play a mean game of Frisbee!

When I was just a kid, and coffee cans had lids that had to be opened with a key, we would use the lids of the can to throw back and forth. You had to be careful though, as the sharp edges on the lids would really cut your thumb if you caught it wrong!

The main trouble was, being metal the lids had a way of getting bent and twisted until they were no longer any fun! When the plastic Frisbee came out, it was an immediate hit!

Jan 23, 1957:

Toy company Wham-O produces first Frisbees

On this day in 1957, machines at the Wham-O toy company roll out the first batch of their aerodynamic plastic discs--now known to millions of fans all over the world as Frisbees.

The story of the Frisbee began in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where William Frisbie opened the Frisbie Pie Company in 1871. Students from nearby universities would throw the empty pie tins to each other, yelling "Frisbie!" as they let go. In 1948, Walter Frederick Morrison and his partner Warren Franscioni invented a plastic version of the disc called the "Flying Saucer" that could fly further and more accurately than the tin pie plates. After splitting with Franscioni, Morrison made an improved model in 1955 and sold it to the new toy company Wham-O as the "Pluto Platter"--an attempt to cash in on the public craze over space and Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

In 1958, a year after the toy's first release, Wham-O--the company behind such top-sellers as the Hula-Hoop, the Super Ball and the Water Wiggle--changed its name to the Frisbee disc, misspelling the name of the historic pie company. A company designer, Ed Headrick, patented the design for the modern Frisbee in December 1967, adding a band of raised ridges on the disc's surface--called the Rings--to stabilize flight. By aggressively marketing Frisbee-playing as a new sport, Wham-O sold over 100 million units of its famous toy by 1977.

High school students in Maplewood, New Jersey, invented Ultimate Frisbee, a cross between football, soccer and basketball, in 1967. In the 1970s, Headrick himself invented Frisbee Golf, in which discs are tossed into metal baskets; there are now hundreds of courses in the U.S., with millions of devotees. There is also Freestyle Frisbee, with choreographed routines set to music and multiple discs in play, and various Frisbee competitions for both humans and dogs--the best natural Frisbee players.

Today, at least 60 manufacturers produce the flying discs--generally made out of plastic and measuring roughly 20-25 centimeters (8-10 inches) in diameter with a curved lip. The official Frisbee is owned by Mattel Toy Manufacturers, who bought the toy from Wham-O in 1994.

It's funny how we used to be satisfied with simple toys, and how these toys kept us outside and running much more than the toys today do!

It's no wonder we were much more healthy back then than the youth of today are! I don't remember obesity being much of a problem in the old days! Of course, there wasn't as many problems with youth crime either, but I think that the reason behind that was because family values were still important!

Now, I'm ready for some fresh coffee on the patio this morning. Sound good to you?

Sunday...A Day Of Rest !

2012-01-22T01:33:00.000-06:00

That being said, I'm taking a day off.

Don't know why, but it seemed like a good idea! It's not like I have anything really important to say anyhow.

Let me just leave you with this thought for today...

Have a great day, my friends! See ya on the flip side! Oh...want some fresh coffee?

Way To Go, Mr. Browning...!

2012-01-21T00:05:00.003-06:00

Hard to believe how much the world of firearms owes to this man!

Starting at a very young age, he managed to make more advances in the world of firearms than nearly anyone else to date! You have to wonder where we would be today without the inventions and improvements of Mr. Browning.

Jan 21, 1855:

Gun designer John Browning is born

John Moses Browning, sometimes referred to as the "father of modern firearms," is born in Ogden, Utah. Many of the guns manufactured by companies whose names evoke the history of the American West-Winchester, Colt, Remington, and Savage-were actually based on John Browning's designs.

The son of a talented gunsmith, John Browning began experimenting with his own gun designs as a young man. When he was 24 years old, he received his first patent, for a rifle that Winchester manufactured as its Single Shot Model 1885. Impressed by the young man's inventiveness, Winchester asked Browning if he could design a lever-action-repeating shotgun. Browning could and did, but his efforts convinced him that a pump-action mechanism would work better, and he patented his first pump model shotgun in 1888.

Fundamentally, all of Browning's manually-operated repeating rifle and shotgun designs were aimed at improving one thing: the speed and reliability with which gun users could fire multiple rounds-whether shooting at game birds or other people. Lever and pump actions allowed the operator to fire a round, operate the lever or pump to quickly eject the spent shell, insert a new cartridge, and then fire again in seconds.

By the late 1880s, Browning had perfected the manual repeating weapon; to make guns that fired any faster, he would somehow have to eliminate the need for slow human beings to actually work the mechanisms. But what force could replace that of the operator moving a lever or pump? Browning discovered the answer during a local shooting competition when he noticed that reeds between a man firing and his target were violently blown aside by gases escaping from the gun muzzle. He decided to try using the force of that escaping gas to automatically work the repeating mechanism.
Browning began experimenting with his idea in 1889. Three years later, he received a patent for the first crude fully automatic weapon that captured the gases at the muzzle and used them to power a mechanism that automatically reloaded the next bullet. In subsequent years, Browning refined his automatic weapon design. When U.S. soldiers went to Europe during WWI, many of them carried Browning Automatic Rifles, as well as Browning's deadly machine guns.

During a career spanning more than five decades, Browning's guns went from being the classic weapons of the American West to deadly tools of world war carnage. Amazingly, since Browning's death in 1926, there have been no further fundamental changes in the modern firearm industry.

I sort of feel that I haven't done much so far after reading of folks like Mr. Browning. Why do I call him Mr. Browning, you ask? Simple! It's a sign of respect! That's something that I feel a lot of...for him and the others of his imaginative nature!

Once again, thanks to the folks at History.com for teaching me something!

Coffee outside again today, as the temps are supposed to go back up to the 80s again!

Now This Is Pretty Corn-y...!

2012-01-20T00:05:00.006-06:00

Most of the folks I know really like popcorn!

For something so good, it is actually considered a healthy snack. Low in calories, easy to make, and it can be the basis for so many other snacks! Not only used for eating, popcorn can be used for decorating as well...and has been since the days of the Aztecs!

I found some interesting facts about popcorn over at Popcorn.com and figured I would share them with you!

Corny Facts

Americans consume some 16 billion quarts of this whole grain, good-for-you treat. That’s 51 quarts per man, woman, and child.

Compared to most snack foods, popcorn is low in calories. Air-popped popcorn has only 31 calories per cup. Oil-popped is only 55 per cup.

Popcorn is a type of maize (or corn), a member of the grass family, and is scientifically known as Zea mays everta.

Of the 6 types of maize/corn—pod, sweet, flour, dent, flint, and popcorn—only popcorn pops.
Popcorn is a whole grain. It is made up of three components: the germ, endosperm, and pericarp (also know as the hull).

Popcorn needs between 13.5-14% moisture to pop.

Popcorn differs from other types of maize/corn in that is has a thicker pericarp/hull. The hull allows pressure from the heated water to build and eventually bursts open. The inside starch becomes gelatinous while being heated; when the hull bursts, the gelatinized starch spills out and cools, giving it its familiar popcorn shape.

Most U.S. popcorn is grown in the Midwest, primarily in Indiana, Nebraska, Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky and Missouri.

Many people believe the acres of corn they see in the Midwest during growing season could be picked and eaten for dinner, or dried and popped. In fact, those acres are typically field corn, which is used largely for livestock feed, and differs from both sweet corn and popcorn.

The peak period for popcorn sales for home consumption is in the fall.

Most popcorn comes in two basic shapes when it's popped: snowflake and mushroom. Snowflake is used in movie theaters and ballparks because it looks and pops bigger. Mushroom is used for candy confections because it doesn't crumble.

Popping popcorn is one of the number one uses for microwave ovens. Most microwave ovens have a "popcorn" control button.

"Popability" is popcorn lingo that refers to the percentage of kernels that pop.

There is no such thing as “hull-less” popcorn. All popcorn needs a hull in order to pop. Some varieties of popcorn have been bred so the hull shatters upon popping, making it appear to be hull-less.

How high popcorn kernels can pop? Up to 3 feet in the air.

The world’s largest popcorn ball was created by volunteers in Sac City, Iowa in February, 2009. It weighed 5,000 lbs., stood over 8 ft. tall, and measured 28.8 ft. in circumference.

If you made a trail of popcorn from New York City to Los Angeles, you would need more than 352,028,160 popped kernels!

I might mention just one more thing here. Popcorn was used in the colonial days for breakfast, much in the same way we use corn flakes today! Think I'm pulling your leg? Check out the article right here!

Let's have our coffee out on the patio this morning. It sure feels like Spring!

How About A Hand Job...!

2012-01-19T00:05:00.002-06:00

Now I know what you're thinking! Has the Hermit lost his mind?

Truth be known, I lost it a long time ago! I just wanted to get your attention since it's so early! So just grab a cup and take a gander at these wonderful, creative works of art!

It's amazing the talent that some folks have! I've done a lot of things with my hands (careful now!)but never anything that could compare to this!

Let's grab a fresh cup of coffee and go sit on the patio this morning. Supposed to warm up again, and I need some sun! OK?

Thanks For The Great Story, Dad...!

2012-01-18T00:05:00.002-06:00

I would bet that Mr. Milne had no idea that these stories would be so enduring!

You just never know when something written for a child will become one of the better known children's fictional characters ever!

Jan 18, 1882:

A.A. Milne is born

On this day in 1882, A.A. Milne, creator of Winnie-the-Pooh, is born.

The youngest of three sons born to schoolteacher parents, Milne taught himself to read at age two. He began writing humorous pieces as a schoolboy and continued to do so at Cambridge, where he edited the undergraduate paper. In 1903, he left Cambridge and went to London to write. Although he was broke by the end of his first year, he persevered and supported himself until 1906 with his writing. That year, he joined humor magazine Punch as an editor and wrote humorous verse and essays for the magazine for eight years, until World War I broke out. While at Punch, he wrote his first book-for adults, not children.

In 1913, he married his wife, Daphne, and two years later went to France to serve in World War I. While in the military, he wrote three plays, one of which, Mr. Pim Passes By, became a hit in 1919 and provided financial security for the family. In 1920, the couple's only son, Christopher Robin, was born. In 1925, the family bought Cotchford Farm in Sussex. A nearby forest inspired the 100-Acre Wood where Winnie-the-Pooh's adventures would be set.

Milne published two volumes of the verse he wrote for his son. When We Were Very Young was published in 1924, followed by Now We Are Six in 1927.

When Christopher Robin was about a year old, he received a stuffed bear as a present. The child soon accumulated a collection of similar animals, which inspired Milne to begin writing a series of whimsical stories about the toys. Winnie-the-Pooh was published in 1926 and The House at Pooh Corner in 1928. Ernest Shepard illustrated the books, using Christopher Robin and his animals as models.

A.A. Milne wrote numerous other books and plays but is remembered almost solely for his beloved children's work. He died in 1956.

Thanks to the love of a dad for his son, and a wish to make his childhood very memorable...the world now has a never ending source of adventures in the 100 Acre Woods! What a gift for his son and for the world!

Thank you, Mr. Milne!

How about coffee inside this morning? It's trying to rain again outside!

Welcome To Cowpens, Now Surrender...!

2012-01-17T00:05:00.004-06:00

Many times in the past, the Redcoats mistakenly underestimated the American patriots!

Very often the small numbers of American fighters turned what seemed to be a hindrance into a very successful fighting force! Some lessons are best learned the hard way, I guess! This was one of them for the Redcoats!

Jan 17, 1781:

Battle of Cowpens, South Carolina

Relying upon strategic creativity, Brigadier General Daniel Morgan and a mixed Patriot force rout British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton and a group of Redcoats and Loyalists at the Battle of Cowpens on this day in 1781.

Commander in chief of the Southern Army, Major General Nathaniel Greene had decided to divide Patriot forces in the Carolinas in order to force the larger British contingent under General Charles Cornwallis to fight them on multiple fronts—and because smaller groups of men were easier for the beleaguered Patriots to feed. Daniel Morgan took 300 Continental riflemen and 740 militiamen with the intention of attacking the British backcountry fort, Ninety-Six.

In response, Cornwallis dispatched Tarleton with 1,100 Redcoats and Loyalists to catch Morgan, whom he feared might instigate a broad-based backcountry Patriot uprising. Morgan prepared for the encounter with Tarleton by backing his men up to a river at Cowpens, north of Ninety-Six.

As Tarleton's men attacked, Morgan instructed the militia to skirmish with them, but to leave the front line after firing two rounds. The British mistook the repositioning of the Americans as a rout and ran into an unexpected volley of concentrated rifle fire coupled with a cavalry charge and followed by the return of the militia. Tarleton escaped, but Morgan's troops decimated his army.

American rifles, scorned by Britain's professional soldiers, proved devastatingly effective in this engagement. The British lost 110 men and more than 200 more were wounded, while an additional 500 were captured. The American losses totaled only 12 killed and 60 wounded in the first Patriot victory to demonstrate that the American forces could outfight a similar British force without any other factors—such as surprise or geography—to assist them.

Country folks, squirrel guns, and a blessed determination to be free! Folks, that's a combination that's just plain hard to beat! Just ask the British!

Coffee on the patio again this morning. Trying to be Summer early!

Lord Bless This Child...!

2012-01-16T00:05:00.003-06:00

Not all kids are up to mischief, even though it may seem that way.

I, for one, am always pleased to find a story like this one that shows that there may just be hope for the human race yet! If this girl, and others like her, are an example of what's ahead, then I am indeed hopeful!

O'Fallon, Mo., girl, 9, turns hobby into benefit for kids with cancer

BY SUSAN WEICH

Photo by Susan Weich, sweich@post-dispatch.

Katie Hilke, 9, of O'Fallon, Mo., knits a cap like those she donated to St. Louis Children's Hospital to give to a child battling cancer. Katie also raised $510 for the hospital.

Katie Hilke is a chatty third-grader except when it comes to her plan to help sick children.

Instead of talking about how she raised $510, she shrugged her shoulders and giggled nervously before going back to work on her knitting.

Katie, who recently turned 9, started knitting when she was doing what she does a lot — waiting at the YMCA near her home in O'Fallon, Mo., while her older sister, Hannah, practiced with her swim team. Earlier this year, at one of those practices, Katie saw one of the moms knitting on a circular loom and asked her about it.

The mom showed Katie how to loop the yarn around the pegs, and Katie learned to use a special tool to turn the loops into stitches and eventually into a warm winter cap.

At first, Katie used the smallest looms to make hats for her American Girl doll. Then she used bigger ones and gave the caps as gifts at baby showers.

Katie went up another loom size and knitted some kid-size caps. She made plain ones and striped ones and some with flowers on the side or pom-poms on top. She made matching purple caps for herself and her friends at Immaculate Conception Grade School in Dardenne Prairie.

Katie might have kept on making the caps for just family and friends if she hadn't seen the pamphlet her dad brought home for a golf tournament. Her dad, Don Hilke, used to be a golf pro and still plays in a lot of tournaments.

The event on the brochure was sponsored by a foundation set up by former pro football player Mark Rypien. On the cover was a picture of Rypien posing with a young cancer patient who was wearing a cap that looked a lot like the ones that Katie knitted.

"Kate looked at it for a while and you could see the light go on in her head," said her mom, Debbie Hilke. "She said 'Do you think I could make hats for kids with cancer?' And I said, 'Of course you can.' "

Hilke said she figured her daughter would make maybe 10 hats at the most, but Katie knitted right past that number and kept going.

Every day Katie would come home from school, turn on the TV and work on her hats. She'd stop to do her homework, but later she'd go back to making hats.

If Katie had the time, she probably could have knitted a cap every day, Hilke said, but Katie had other obligations. She plays soccer, softball, basketball and she swims on her own team in the summer. She's a Brownie.

"She's a busy little girl," Hilke said.

By August, Katie had finished 37 caps. When her dad told his friend, Chris Buehrle, about it, Buehrle suggested that Katie sell the caps at his annual golf tournament, which raises money locally for cancer research. Any money Katie raised could be earmarked for children.

Katie agreed and set up a table on the 10th green where she peddled her caps for $10 apiece. She sold every cap, and people donated all but one of them back so Katie could give them to children who had lost their hair. Others just donated money.

Katie's mom arranged for Katie to meet with Erin Taake, project coordinator of special events at St. Louis Children's Hospital. Katie got a tour of several common areas of the hospital but because of patient privacy and a rule that says visitors have to be at least 16, Katie didn't get to meet any of the children who got one of her hats.

Taake said the hospital gets donations a few times a year from groups of children, like a grade school, but usually not from just one child.

"For somebody, especially someone as young as Katie, to initiate this and make the items herself is unique," she said. "And the caps were so nice; it was very impressive that she was able to make these."

Katie's mom, of course, was beaming at the praise for her daughter, who plans to knit and sell the caps again next year.

"Her dad and I are so proud, and it was neat that she came up with the idea herself," she said.

As for Katie, she listened to her what he mom said, lowered her blue eyes to the loom and got back to work.

Read more: http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/columns/susan-weich/o-fallon-mo-girl-turns-hobby-into-benefit-for-kids/article_19430aaa-ad95-5cc6-8d4f-bab04a8684d8.html#ixzz1jZvoz5Hy

Sorry for the length of the post, but I thought it important enough to share this story with you. God bless this child, her heart and her family!

Coffee on the patio this morning! I feel it's warm enough, don't you?

Friendship...!

2012-01-15T00:05:00.004-06:00

Really nothing new here today, but a look back on a few quotes about one of life's greatest treasures...friendship!

Nothing I can say is nearly as good as these few quotes by others. I think they about say it all.

Mighty proud I am that I am able to have a spare bed for my friends.
Samuel Pepys

Never explain - your friends do not need it and your enemies will not believe you anyway.
Elbert Hubbard

Nothing but heaven itself is better than a friend who is really a friend.
Plautus

One's friends are that part of the human race with which one can be human.
George Santayana

Silences make the real conversations between friends. Not the saying but the never needing to say is what counts.
Margaret Lee Runbeck

Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose a chance to make them.
Francesco Guicciardini

The bird a nest, the spider a web, man friendship.
William Blake

The friend is the man who knows all about you, and still likes you.
Elbert Hubbard

The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing... not healing, not curing... that is a friend who cares.
Henri Nouwen

The language of friendship is not words but meanings.
Henry David Thoreau

The most I can do for my friend is simply be his friend.
Henry David Thoreau

The only way to have a friend is to be one.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

The real test of friendship is: can you literally do nothing with the other person? Can you enjoy those moments of life that are utterly simple?
Eugene Kennedy

The sincere friends of this world are as ship lights in the stormiest of nights.
Giotto di Bondone

There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.
Thomas Aquinas

Think where mans glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends.
William Butler Yeats

True friends stab you in the front.
Oscar Wilde

We call that person who has lost his father, an orphan; and a widower that man who has lost his wife. But that man who has known the immense unhappiness of losing a friend, by what name do we call him? Here every language is silent and holds its peace in impotence.
Joseph Roux

When a friend is in trouble, don't annoy him by asking if there is anything you can do. Think up something appropriate and do it.
Edward W. Howe

That's really all the deep thoughts I had for this Sunday. I hope you all have a great day!

I suggest we have our coffee inside the kitchen this morning. It's always better shared with friends!

History Of Craigslist...!

2012-01-14T00:05:00.001-06:00

I'll be willing to bet that I use Craigslist at least once or twice a week, at the very least!

But, like most folks, I had no idea of their history! Well, thanks to the site called Now I Know...I do! You might find this interesting!

Craigslist

Craigslist, the website, is one of the few inhabitants of the rarified air reserved for the upper-echelon of consumer-facing websites such as Facebook, Google, Wikipedia, and Amazon. With over 20 billion (yes, billion) page views each month, it claims to be in the top 10 of all companies by English language pages served. Over 50 million Americans use the site each month — with craigslist having only 30 or so employees. Not thirty thousand. Thirty.

The service — a mostly unfiltered, almost entirely free series of local forums — seems incredibly simple, so simple that many copycats have tried to enter the space. If you build it, they will come, the copycats believe. Grab a domain name, install some software, maybe put up some flyers and wait. People will post jobs they need filled, apartment listings, and try and buy and sell everything from baseball tickets and used books to old couches and broken electronics. After all, that’s how the Craig of craigslist did it. A fool-proof plan.

Except that isn’t how craigslist came to be.

In 1994, a java developer named Craig Newmark was living in San Francisco, working for Charles Schwab, the investment services firm. Being connected to the nascent consumer Internet, he caught onto a salient fact rather early: people were using the new technologies available to them to self-organize around topics, helping each other out by sharing knowledge and information. Newmark himself was looking for more social events in and involving the SF technology scene, so he started his own online community — an informal email list consisting of a handful of friends. Newmark would email out events that he thought looked interesting. No heavy technology involved; just a simple email — basically, a way to manage a liberally-used “cc:” field.

Pretty quickly, the list grew, in both size and scope. List members told friends about this guy Craig’s list. And recipients of the email began requesting posts for things other than events — jobs, stuff for sale, etc. Newmark himself realized that apartment listings were also a natural fit. By the middle of 1995, about 250 people were on the list. Not huge, but significant, especially for his mail server — which could no longer handle the list size. He installed a list server (called majordomo) to manage the emails, and intended to call the list “SF Events.” But list members were already calling it “Craig’s List,” and he deferred.

But users were clamoring for more; specifically, a web interface. In the fall of 1997, Newmark registered the domain craigslist.org. And the rest is history — the history you already knew.

As the man once said...Now you know the rest of the story!

I'm having coffee in the kitchen this morning. Want to join me?

Some More Thoughts On Age...!

2012-01-13T00:05:00.007-06:00

Here's another one I got from my Baby Sis.

I hope this poem has the same effect on you as it did on me. If it does, then my work is done!

Walk with me by the water - worth the read...

A BEAUTIFUL POEM ABOUT GROWING OLDER:

Crap...

I forgot the words....

Guess that about says it all! Ya know, sometimes I worry about Baby Sis! Why does she always seem to find these things to send to me? Reckon she is trying to tell me something? NAW!!! Surely not!

Coffee inside this morning! It's colder than an ex mother-in-law's heart outside!

Something For The Ladies...!

2012-01-12T00:05:00.002-06:00

Even though this is primarily for the ladies, some men might like it as well!

My Baby Sis sent me this and I couldn't help but think that some of the women out there, especially the mothers, might see the humor in it!

It's cold here this morning, so let's have coffee in the kitchen. Biscuits and gravy might be just what we need to go with it!

Persistence Pays...!

2012-01-11T00:05:00.004-06:00

We've all had 'em!

Those days when everything works against us, the days that make us want to run down the street screaming! You know, the kind of day that makes you throw up your hands and ask "why me?"

How we handle ourselves on days like these defines us in many ways! It tests our mettle, as the old timers used to say! In other words...take a deep breath, hike up your britches, and deal with the day head on!

Don't give up! Don't give in! Play life's game, but play to win!

Now the guy in this video doesn't know that he's beaten! He refuses to admit that the river has won this round! He is facing Death, spits in his eye, and says "Hell, no! Not this time!" That, my friends, is persistence!

While we are on the subject of folks that are fighting the good fight, I would like you to drop by A blog I found called Mystic Mud! These are some folks that are surely playing to win! I think you will be impressed with the spirit this family has! OK?

Coffee in the kitchen this morning! Turned off chilly again!

Father Of Sam Spade...!

2012-01-10T00:05:00.002-06:00

As many of you know, I really like mystery stories.

This particular author probably did more for the hard nose mystery stories and heroes than anyone I know of. His characters are still familiar to many folks, especially mystery lovers! Takes a heck of an imagination to be a good story teller, don't you think? Especially mystery stories!

Jan 10, 1961:

Dashiell Hammett dies

Dashiell Hammett, author of The Maltese Falcon, dies on this day in 1961.

Hammett was born in Maryland on May 27, 1894. He left school at age 13 and took a series of low-paying jobs, eventually landing at Pinkerton's detective agency. He worked as a detective for eight years and turned his experiences into fiction that set the mold for later writers like Raymond Chandler. Hammett's deadpan description of violent or emotional events came to be known as the "hard-boiled" style of detective fiction.

Hammett published short stories in his characteristic deadpan style, starting in 1929 with Fly Paper. He published two novels in the same style that year, Red Harvest and The Dain Curse. The following year, he published The Maltese Falcon, which introduced detective Sam Spade. The novel was filmed three times: once in 1931; once in 1936 under the title Satan Met a Lady, starring Bette Davis; and again in1941, starring Humphrey Bogart.

Hammett became involved with playwright Lillian Hellman (author of The Children's Hour in 1934 and The Little Foxes in 1939), who served as the model for Nora Charles in his 1934 comic mystery The Thin Man. The book was made into a movie the same year, starring William Powell and Myrna Loy, and the characters of Nick and Nora Charles inspired several sequel films. Hammett and Hellman remained romantically involved until Hammett's death in 1961.

Writers like Hammett were the founders and fathers of most all of the tough cops, hardened private detectives, and two timing females we find in most detective stories even today! Long live Sam Spade!

It's still raining this morning, so let's have our coffee in the kitchen, OK?

Just Some Things To Consider...!

2012-01-09T00:05:00.002-06:00

Things are starting out pretty crazy this year.

I was hoping for a more productive and improved 2012, but you just never know! I did find a few points to be remembered this year, though. I figured I would share them with you!

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing stinks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. MapQuest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Bad decisions make good stories.

9. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

10. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blu-ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection ... again.

11. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my 10-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

12. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

13. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

14. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile
because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

15. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

16. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone and pinning the tail on the donkey --but I'd bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from three feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.

I'm thinking I need some more coffee this morning, ya think? It's trying to rain this morning, so we'll have to stay inside.

Fresh coffee in the kitchen, OK?

Sunday Stories Of Treasure...!

2012-01-08T00:05:00.001-06:00

First of all, our very first story of treasure is a visit from my Baby Sis yesterday!

When ever Sis comes over, I find treasure in sharing memories, swapping childhood stories, and browsing through old pictures as well. Mom is never happier than when she gets an extended visit from one of her daughters, I think.

Come to think of it, I get a real kick out of it myself! Sometimes the simple things become the biggest treasures, don't you think?

The next treasure? A story about a single penny! Now this penny is not your everyday variety of penny...no sir! This one cent piece is worth just a tad more.

1793 penny fetches $1.38M at Fla. auction

James Halperin of Texas-based Heritage Auctions told The Associated Press on Saturday that the sale was "the most a United States copper coin has ever sold for at auction." The Orlando Sentinel reports (http://thesent.nl/xZBfyw ) that the final bid by an unknown buyer for the coin was one of the largest sales at the Florida United Numismatists coin show and annual convention.

Now for the biggest and best treasure of all! I noticed this morning that we now have a grand total of 300 followers! That's amazing to me! 300 new friends, even though many have been with me since I first started my babbling here on this blog!

I never thought when I started this blog on 11/17/07 that I would have posted a total of 1528 post, or that I would have had a total number of page views of 199,054! Most importantly, I am just so thrilled about having a total of 300 folks that took the time to sign up as a friend!

All of the people that take the time out of their lives to drop by for a visit and to share a cup everyday...that's the true treasure this Sunday! That's a treasure that is worth so much more than money!

I do appreciate the visits more than I could ever say, believe me! It's truly a humbling experience to me and to say THANK YOU seems so little in return! Still, I do thank you and I mean that, my friends, more than you could know!

Now, let's get some fresh coffee and sit out on the patio! The new coffee pot works just fine!

Always A Movie Lover...!

2012-01-07T00:05:00.002-06:00

Growing up one of the real treats for me was getting to go to the movies!

I was always happy when we went to a family reunion in Georgetown because the movies there were so much cheaper than here in Houston. Not only that, but we were allowed to walk! That would never happen in the big city, believe me!

Only drawback was that they had the serials, and I never got to see more than one episode...BUMMER! Still, the movies were a really fun time for me, and still are when I can catch a good one on the oldies channel! I'll bet many of you know exactly what I mean!

C'mon...admit it! I know there must have been at least one old movie that you loved as a kid, right?

Coffee out on the patio this morning. Supposed to be in the 70's again today! Not too bad for the middle of Winter!

Can't Escape Father Time...!

2012-01-06T00:05:00.002-06:00

This date is important to me for more reasons than one.

First of all, today is my Baby Sis's Birthday! Since I'm almost a gentleman, I won't reveal her age! I will say, though, that I call her "baby Sis" for a reason...she was the youngest of four children born to my Mom and Dad! I was the first born, the only boy, and the "leader of the pack" so to speak!

Over the years, I've lost just one sister who passed on due to cancer! I feel very blessed to still have my other two sisters here to share memories with and to back me up with advice when needed. I do miss my sister Sue, the one that passed, but life goes on and the memories of our family with her in our midst are very fond ones still!

I did find this picture of my sisters and Mom I thought I'd share with you! It's from several years ago, so keep that in mind! I'm actually prettier now than I was then! (You believe that, right?)

Now, I didn't get my sisters permission to post this, so don't tell them...OK? That's Baby Sis on the left, Mom next to her, yours truly next to Mom, and "B", oldest of the sisters, on the right!

I might mention that both my sisters AND MY MOM are all much prettier now! You can quote me on that, OK?

Coffee outside on the patio this morning! Fresh made peanut clusters for everyone that says "Happy Birthday" to Baby Sis!

Feeling My Age...!

2012-01-05T00:57:00.001-06:00

For some reason, I'm feeling a little down today.

Guess it's just an age thing, or maybe it's because I always feel a little down when the holidays are over. I don't like the holidays, but I've already said that before!

Anyway, I finally got all the decorations down at Mom's house and helped her get her house back in shape for her sewing group today! After the last two weeks, I need a vacation, but this is as close as I'm gonna get!

Coffee on the patio this morning if that's alright! I need the fresh air!

And Now For Something Different...!

2012-01-04T00:05:00.005-06:00

I wanted to put something really nice on here today.

I have never seen these before, but if I had seen one I'm not sure if I would have eaten one! Just goes to show that even though Mother Nature can be a hard lady when she wants to...she also can package some very beautiful snacks!

Bear's Head Tooth Mushroom

Though they appear to be dangling worms, this is actually an enormous, edible white mushroom. They can also grow branches and are said to be helpful in fighting cancer, stimulating nerve growth, and helping kill roundworms.

At least if you or I are ever lost in the woods and run across something that looks like this...then supper is served! You can have the first bite, OK?

Coffee in the warm kitchen this morning. It's a little chilly outside, so I'm for staying in!

Seward's Folly...!

2012-01-03T00:05:00.001-06:00

I love a bargain as much as the next guy...but I think that America got the bargain of all bargains with the purchase of Alaska!

If I could find a nice little piece of land at this price, I'd jump right on it! Even I could afford 2 cents an acre! Heck, I might even sell something important to raise more! Something important...like maybe my prize comic book collection, or my favorite hand carved back scratcher, or...well, you get the idea!

No matter ! The point is this was a wonderful purchase at a excellent price! What a great addition to our country!

Jan 3, 1959:

Alaska admitted into Union

On January 3, 1959, President Eisenhower signs a special proclamation admitting the territory of Alaska into the Union as the 49th and largest state.

The European discovery of Alaska came in 1741, when a Russian expedition led by Danish navigator Vitus Bering sighted the Alaskan mainland. Russian hunters were soon making incursions into Alaska, and the native Aleut population suffered greatly after being exposed to foreign diseases. In 1784, Grigory Shelikhov established the first permanent Russian colony in Alaska on Kodiak Island. In the early 19th century, Russian settlements spread down the west coast of North America, with the southernmost fort located near Bodega Bay in California.

Russian activity in the New World declined in the 1820s, and the British and Americans were granted trading rights in Alaska after a few minor diplomatic conflicts. In the 1860s, a nearly bankrupt Russia decided to offer Alaska for sale to the United States, which earlier had expressed interest in such a purchase. On March 30, 1867, Secretary of State William H. Seward signed a treaty with Russia for the purchase of Alaska for $7.2 million. Despite the bargain price of roughly two cents an acre, the Alaskan purchase was ridiculed in Congress and in the press as "Seward's folly," "Seward's icebox," and President Andrew Johnson's "polar bear garden." Nevertheless, the Senate ratified purchase of the tremendous landmass, one-fifth the size of the rest of the United States.

Despite a slow start in settlement by Americans from the continental United States, the discovery of gold in 1898 brought a rapid influx of people to the territory. Alaska, rich in natural resources, has been contributing to American prosperity ever since.

Despite the fact that Texas lost the title of the biggest state in the union, despite the fact that I was born in Texas and should resent that loss, I don't! My personal thought is that Alaska was one of the best things to happen to the Union in a long time! Just my opinion, ya understand!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning! I have some fresh baked bread and some honey!

I'll Admit, I'm Cheap...!

2012-01-02T00:05:00.001-06:00

I'm not saying that I'm cheap, but like it or not...I Am!

I don't remember where I found out about this site, but I'm really glad that I found it. At least, I think I'm glad ! This site can be addictive!

For a while now, my coffee maker has been acting strangely. So, being the coffee lover that I am, I needed to convince myself to get a new one. Trouble is, Christmas was upon us and I had to place the new pot on the back burner...no pun intended!

After signing up on this site and getting started in the bidding process, I managed to win two items on my first night! This brand new coffee pot cost me a grand total of $.23 cents! Even with the shipping fee, which was resonable, I still ended up paying less than $10.00! Pretty cool!

My second item was a $25 gift card from WalMart...$2.99 total! Pretty cheap way to pick up some nice gifts, ya know? You might want to go by and see everything that they are auctioning off. If you do it right and get lucky like I did, you might get a bargain! QuiBids!

If you decide to go over and try your luck, just remember...I told you it was addicting, OK?

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. It's foggy and chilly on the patio!

Welcome To Janus...!

2012-01-01T00:05:00.002-06:00

I found this article in Farmer's Almanac and I thought it might be of interest to you.

In this article there is mention of a Temple of Peace! Interesting concept, I think! See if you don't agree!

Janus

Ruler of new beginnings, gates and doors, the first hour of the day, the first day of the month, and the first month of the year, the Roman god Janus gave January its name.

He was pictured as two-headed and situated so that one head looked forward into the new year while the other took a retrospective view.

Janus also presided over the temple of peace, where the doors were opened only during wartime.

It was a place of safety, where new beginnings and renewed commitments could be forged, just as the new year is a time for us to reflect.

Just imagine! A temple where the doors were always opened during time of war, as though they were welcoming home the warriors! During time of peace, the very same doors were left shut in order to keep war from entering!

I think we need one of these in Washington, just as a reminder! Just my opinion!

Fresh coffee on the patio this morning! What a way to start the New Year...coffee with good friends!

A Little New Years History...!

2011-12-31T00:05:00.003-06:00

First of all, let me wish everyone a Happy New Year...almost!

If nothing else, I think we can all say it's been an interesting year! Strange weather, strange politics (as always), and a strange series of events leading us into the unknown of 2012!

Because of all this strangeness, I wanted to calm things down by offering a little history about new years, OK?

New Year Traditions From Around the World

Many New Year customs that we take for granted actually date from ancient times. This year, ring out the old and ring in the new with a New Year tradition—or two!

Make Some Noise

In ancient Thailand, guns were fired to frighten off demons.

In China, firecrackers routed the forces of darkness.

In the early American colonies, the sounds of pistol shots rang through the air.

Today, Italians let their church bells peal, the Swiss beat drums, and the North Americans sound sirens and party horns to bid the old year farewell.

Eat Lucky Food

Many New Year's traditions surround food. Here are a few:

In the southern US, black-eyed peas and pork foretell good fortune.

Eating any ring-shaped treat (such as a donut) symbolize "coming full circle" and leads to good fortune.

In Dutch homes, fritters called olie bollen are served.

The Irish enjoy pastries called bannocks.

The tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight comes from Spain.

In India and Pakistan, rice promises prosperity.

Apples dipped in honey are a Rosh Hashanah tradition.

In Swiss homes, dollops of whipped cream, symbolizing the richness of the year to come, are dropped on the floors (and allowed to remain there!)

Drink a Beverage

Although the pop of a champagne cork signals the arrival of the New Year around the world, some countries have their own traditions.

Wassail, the Gaelic term for "good health" is served in some parts of England.

Spiced "hot pot" is the Scottish version of Wassail. It's customary to drink a glass or two at home before sharing with neighbors.

In Holland, toasts are made with hot, spiced wine.

Give a Gift

New Year's Day was once the time to swap presents.

Gifts of gilded nuts or coins marked the start of the new year in Rome.

Eggs, the symbol of fertility, were exchanged by the Persians.

Early Egyptians traded earthenware flasks.

In Scotland, coal, shortbread and silverware are exchanged for good luck.

Put Your Best Foot Forward

In Scotland, the custom of first-footing is an important part of the celebration of Hogmanay, or New Year's Eve Day.

This practice holds that the first foot to cross a threshold after midnight will predict the next year's fortune. Although the tradition varies, those deemed especially fortunate as "first footers" are new brides, new mothers, those who are tall and dark (and handsome?) or anyone born on January 1.

I do hope the rest of this new years eve goes good for all of my friends! Please, be safe and take care of yourself. It wouldn't be any fun without you all around!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning! Bread is in the oven!

The High Cost Of Patriotism...!

2011-12-30T00:05:00.002-06:00

I know most of us have used or have heard the expression..."Freedom is not free" and this bit of history shows just how costly it can be!

We tend to forget that many, many folks over the years gave all for our freedom! Let's continue to hope that the sacrifices made by so many were not in vain!

Dec 30, 1803:

Francis Lewis dies

On this day in 1803, Francis Lewis, signer of the Declaration of Independence, dies in New York City, at the age of 90.

Lewis was born in Llandaff, Wales, and educated at the prestigious Westminster School in London before immigrating to the North American colonies at 22 years old. Lewis founded businesses in New York and Philadelphia, winning lucrative contracts to provision the British army in America.

During the Seven Years' War, Lewis served General Hugh Mercer as an aide. Traveling with Mercer, Lewis was captured in Oswego and taken as a prisoner of war to France. For his service, the New York government granted him 5,000 acres upon his return to the colony.

In 1765, Lewis served as a delegate to the Stamp Act Congress and retired from his mercantile career to settle in Whitestone, Long Island, becoming active in revolutionary politics, including the Sons of Liberty. In 1775 alone, he participated in the provincial convention, the Continental Congress and the Committee of One Hundred. In 1776, he continued to serve the first two bodies and signed the Declaration of Independence. He continued as a member of the Continental Congress until 1779, when he assumed the position of commissioner of the Board of Admiralty.

Lewis' patriotism came at a high cost. The British army destroyed his Long Island estate and took his wife prisoner in 1776. She remained a prisoner, reportedly without a bed or change of clothes, for many months because the Continental Army had no women of similar status in captivity for whom George Washington could orchestrate an exchange. Neither Mrs. Lewis' health nor the couple's fortune ever recovered from the attack.

I can't help but wonder just how many of us would be willing to pay the price paid by this family. The same type of price is being paid even today by many of our fighting men and women coming back from foreign soil! All paid some...some paid all!

God bless our troops, past and present! Let's remember them even more as we go into a new year!

Coffee on the patio once again! Want some pumpkin pie with that? I've got Cool Whip for the top!

The Present Truth Predicted In 1958...!

2011-12-29T00:05:00.002-06:00

Sometimes when you research the past, you find some startling information about the present.

The following clip is from the year of 1958, and more of these predictions than we may want to admit to have come true. In fact, much of what this guy says hits the nail right on the head! If you don't think so, then just watch the first half of this clip and see what I mean!

If for no other reason than this came from 1958, we should pay attention to this bit of the past...because much of it exist right now in the present!

Coffee on the patio this morning! I'll share the last of my home made chocolate chip cookies, just because you're special!

Now THAT'S What I Call Tradition...!

2011-12-28T00:05:00.003-06:00

In a time of hustle and bustle, so much of the older traditions seem to be fading away more and more!

A tradition can come in many forms and probably every family either has or has had one over the years. I would venture that not many have one that lasted this long, and in a way...that's a tragedy!

Texas men trade the same Christmas card for decades

Dec. 24, 2011 02:54 PM

Associated Press

WHITEHOUSE, Texas -- A Christmas card that crisscrossed the country as part of an old joke between two Texas men will rest this holiday for the first time in 61 years.

Acker Hanks mailed the card to his former neighbor Lee Kelley in 1950. Kelley, a prankster, mailed it back a year later.

The two continued sending the card back and forth, and when Kelley died, his widow mailed the tattered message for over a decade. Last year, it returned to Hanks unread. He believes Kelley's widow moved to a nursing home.

A list of dates and places in the worn card documents its journey. Hanks plans to frame it.

"I always looked forward to getting the card," he told the Tyler Morning Telegraph. "I don't think it'll ever leave me now."

That, my friends, is as good an example of tradition as there is! Not only that, but it shows a pretty fair amount of love between friends, if you ask me!

There should be that much love in all relationships, I think! Just my opinion, of course!

Coffee on the patio this morning. It's chilly but dry...so feel free to huddle up if you want!

I Wondered Where That Came From...!

2011-12-27T00:05:00.002-06:00

I remember the song, but never had even the slightest idea where it came from!

I guess that I always figured that, like most songs, it was something that someone made up. Somehow it's kind of exciting to find out that the character in the song was based on a real person. Kind of makes me want to go back and listen to the song again, only with "new ears!" Does that make any sense?

Dec 27, 1895:

The legend of "Stagger Lee" is born

Murder and mayhem have been the subject of many popular songs over the years, though more often than not, the tales around which such songs revolve tend to be wholly fictional. Johnny Cash never shot a man in Reno, and the events related in such famous story songs as "El Paso" and "I Shot The Sheriff" never actually took place. The same cannot be said, however, about "Stagger Lee"—a song that has drifted from the facts somewhat over the course of its many lives in the last 100-plus years, but a song inspired by an actual murder that took place on this day in 1895, in a St. Louis, Missouri, barroom argument involving a man named Billy and another named "Stag" Lee.

Under the headline "Shot in Curtis's Place," the story that ran in the next day's edition of the St. Louis Daily Globe-Democrat began, "William Lyons, 25, colored, a levee hand... was shot in the abdomen yesterday evening at 10 o'clock in the saloon of Bill Curtis... by Lee Sheldon, also colored." According to the Globe-Democrat's account, Billy Lyons and "Stag" Lee Sheldon "had been drinking and were in exuberant spirits" when an argument over "politics" boiled over, and Lyons "snatched Sheldon's hat from his head." While subsequent musical renditions of this story would depict the dispute as one over gambling, they would preserve the key detail of "Stag" Lee Sheldon's headwear and of his matter-of-fact response to losing it: "Sheldon drew his revolver and shot Lyons in the abdomen... When his victim fell to the floor Sheldon took his hat from the hand of the wounded man and coolly walked away."

In his 2003 book Stagolee Shot Billy, based on his earlier doctoral dissertation on the subject, scholar Cecil Brown recounts the story of how the real "Stag" Lee became an iconic figure in African-American folklore and how his story became the subject of various musical renderings "from the [age of the] steamboat to the electronic age in the American 21st century." The most famous of those musical renditions were 1928's "Stack O' Lee Blues" by Mississippi John Hurt and 1959's "Stagger Lee," an unlikely #1 pop hit for Lloyd Price. Versions of the story have also appeared, however, in songs by artists as wide-ranging as Woody Guthrie, Duke Ellington, Bob Dylan, James Brown, The Clash, the Grateful Dead and Nick Cave.

There ya go! Now I feel a lot better that I've used "new ears" to listen to the song again! Sort of makes you appreciate the old songs again, ya know?

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. Let's put on some more of the "oldies" and liven the place up! OK?

Still Hungry ? Try This...!

2011-12-26T00:05:00.002-06:00

I have a recipe for a cake from none other than Martha Washington herself!

If this doesn't kill your appetite, nothing will! Believe me!

Martha's Great Cake

Although not the first Christmas cake, this is a recipe from our first First Lady, Martha Washington. These are the exact words in which it was written for celebrating what she called "a true Virginia Christmas" at Mount Vernon:

"Take 40 eggs and divide the whites from the yolks and beat them to a froth, start to work four pounds of butter to cream and put the whites of eggs to it a spoon full at a time till it is well worked. Then put four pounds of sugar finely powdered to it in the same way, then put in the yolks of eggs, and five pounds of flower, and five pounds of fruit. Two hours will bake it. Add to it half an ounce of mace, one nutmeg, half a pint of wine, and some French brandy."

If this doesn't do away with your sweet tooth, don't worry about it! After a couple of slices, the booze will at least make you where you just don't care!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. Sorry, but no cake left! I drank it...er, I mean ATE it all!

A Few Christmas Facts From The Almanac...!

2011-12-25T00:05:00.011-06:00

First of all, let me say "Merry Christmas" to one and all!

This sentiment is from me and my roomie C.B.!

You may or may not already know some of these, but I figured I would offer them to you just in case! Never hurts to have a few mundane facts hidden away to throw out if the conversation gets too slow, ya know?

Here is a little bit about the history of Christmas traditions in America, from Christmas trees to greeting cards, that we all know and love today.

Christmas Trees

The first American Christmas tree can be credited to a Hessian soldier by the name of Henrick Roddmore, who was captured at the Battle of Bennington in 1776. He then went to work on the farm of Samuel Denslow in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, where for the next 14 years he put up and decorated Christmas trees in the Denslow family home.

The first Christmas tree retail lot was established in 1851 by a Pennsylvanian named Mark Carr, who hauled tow ox sleds loaded with Christmas trees from the Catskill Mountains to the sidewalks of New York City.

The first president to set up a Christmas tree in the White House was Franklin Pierce, and the first president to establish the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the White House lawn was Calvin Coolidge.

In 1882, the first tree lights were sold in New York City.

Well, now you are all set for your next round of Trivial Pursuit! Always something interesting in the Old Farmer's Almanac!

Coffee is ready in the kitchen this morning! I have some Clementines to go along with it!

It's Christmas Eve...!

2011-12-24T00:05:00.002-06:00

As I have said, I'm not much into Christmas as it's celebrated now days!

My idea of Christmas is so far removed from all the craziness going on in the shopping world and the traffic that it's not even funny!

However, I thought I might share a little bit of traditional Christmas music with you, just in case you are into that sort of thing! I do have to admit that played on these wine glasses, the sound is very pretty and soothing!

And just in case you didn't like the wine glasses, here is another piece. This one is closer in imagery to the memories of my childhood!

No matter how you celebrate tomorrow or today...or even if you don't, I wish you all peace and joy! Be safe, stay happy!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning! Have a blessed day!

Messin' With Your Mind...!

2011-12-23T00:05:00.002-06:00

I know that I've been avoiding the issue, but it's time for me to come clean!

I'm a little crazy! Some would say that I'm more than a little crazy, but I'd rather think that a little is good enough.

These illusions are just to make your mind work a little better this morning, to sort of help get you ready for this weekend!

First, the Spinning Spiral... which is a static jpeg and there's no animation taking place, but if you move your eyes to look in any direction or blink, then the spiral spins.

The two orange circles are exactly the same size; however, the one on the left seems smaller. This is known as the Ebbinghaus Illusion. Cool, huh?

The QR Code Illusion... sort of. It's not a QR code, but look at at the "shimmering" in this image:

Now if your head is all messed up, maybe you are better prepared for the next couple of days! Be of good cheer, my friends! It's almost over...at least the crazy part is!

Oh, by the way...I got these illusions from RelativelyInteresting.com. You should go over and check them out!

How about we have our coffee in the kitchen this morning? It's still damp out on the patio!

So Now We Had A Navy...!

2011-12-22T00:05:00.003-06:00

Amazing what came out of such a humble beginning!

When you stop and think about it, this was quite an undertaking for a new country. I can't even imagine what the training must have been like!

Dec 22, 1775:

Continental Congress creates a Continental Navy

On Friday, December 22, 1775, the Continental Congress creates a Continental Navy, naming Esek Hopkins, Esq., as commander in chief of the fleet.

Congress also named four captains to the new service: Dudley Saltonstall, Abraham Whipple, Nicholas Biddle and John Burrows Hopkins. Their respective vessels, the Alfred, Columbus, Andrew Doria and Cabot, became the first ships of the Navy's fleet. Five first lieutenants, including future American hero John Paul Jones, five second lieutenants, and three third lieutenants also received their commissions.

The new Admiral Hopkins, as he was dubbed by George Washington, was a Rhode Islander of some standing. His brother was Stephen Hopkins, the state's governor. Esek Hopkins had married well and used his wife's fortune to buy a ship. It proved a wise investment. He added to his wealth working as a privateer during the Seven Years' War. In his new position, Congress promised to pay him 125 dollars per calendar month; they also informed that he could look forward to some share of the prizes allotted to the captors. Christopher Gadsden of South Carolina designed Hopkins' personal standard, which flew from the first navy fleet. The yellow flag bore the image of a coiled snake and the Patriot motto, Don't Tread on Me.

Hopkins' first assignment was to assess the feasibility of an attack on British naval forces in the Chesapeake Bay. After sailing south with his meager force of eight ships, Hopkins decided that victory in such an encounter was impossible. He sailed to the Bahamas instead, where he attacked the British port of Nassau, a decision for which he was relieved of his command upon returning to the continent.

Old navy or new navy, one thing is always the same! Always obey orders! I'm pretty sure this applies to all branches of the armed service! There is a little bit of a difference between attacking a naval force and attacking a port!

Wonder if he thought his commander wouldn't notice? I'd say "bad judgement call!"

By the way, I got this information from http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/continental-congress-creates-a-continental-navy...thought I should mention that!

Let's have our coffee on the patio this morning! It's actually pretty nice outside!

Solar Water Purification...!

2011-12-21T00:05:00.003-06:00

Hopefully you'll never have to use something like this, but you just never know.

With all the important things we gather for a "just in case" situation, the most important of all is INFORMATION!

As the old saying goes "Knowledge is power!" If nothing else, maybe you could mentally file this away for future use!

How Do I Use Solar Power to Purify Water?

by Jessica Blue, Demand Media

Choose a clear plastic bottle and remove all labels for a simple water-purification method.

Even when it looks clear, water can carry hordes of microscopic germs — bacteria and viruses that can wreak havoc on your body. Drinking water is normally sanitized at treatment plants before it enters the home, but if you're camping or drinking water from a rural well, for example, you're not drawing water from the typical water purification infrastructure. You can still protect your gut, though, with a simple water-purification method. This approach is similar to boiling water, though it is more effective because along with heat it uses a spectrum of UV-A light that kills many pathogenic microorganisms . However, it does not fully clean very muddy water or water that contains toxic chemical pollutants.

Items you will need:

Plastic bottle with recycling code 1 (PET/PETE)
Funnel
Piece of clean cloth, such as an old T-shirt
Cup or bucket

Step 1:
Wash and dry a plastic bottle and remove all labels. The bottle should be clear to let in as much light as possible.

Step 2:
Choose a relatively clear section of water if you are gathering water from a stream. Mud and other floating matter can detract from this method's effectiveness.

Step 3:
Remove the bottle cap and place the neck of the funnel into the mouth of the bottle. Stretch the cloth across the funnel and tie or hold it in place. The cloth filters particulate matter from the water.

Step 4:
Scoop up some water with a cup or bucket and pour it slowly over the cloth into the funnel.

Step 5:
Stop filling the bottle when it is 75 percent full. Replace the cap.

Step 6:
Shake the bottle vigorously for about 20 seconds.

Step 7:
Place the bottle horizontally on a flat surface like a rock or a rooftop. Ideally, the surface should be dark or reflective. Corrugated tin roofs work best, but any surface works as long as it receives direct sunlight.

Step 8:
Let the bottle sit for at least 6 hours. If the sunlight is indirect or the sky is cloudy, let the bottle sit for 24 hours.

Like I say, you may never need this, but better safe than sorry! Know what I mean?

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. Rain last night made it wet on the patio.

A Little Tuesday Humor...!

2011-12-20T00:05:00.031-06:00

I know that everyone is going to spend the next few days getting ready for Christmas.

With that thought in mind, I figured we could use a little humor to level out all the emotions. I do hope that this helps to take the edge off!

The Dead Parrot‏

At dawn the telephone rings, "Hello, Senor Rod? This is Ernesto, the care taker at your country house.

"Ah yes, Ernesto. What can I do for you? Is there a problem?"

"Um, I am just calling to advise you, Senor Rod, that your parrot, he is dead.

"My parrot? Dead? The one that won the International competition?"

"Si, Senor, that's the one."

"Damn! That's a pity! I spent a small fortune on that bird. What did he die from?"

"From eating the rotten meat, Senor Rod."

"Rotten meat? Who the hell fed him rotten meat?"

"Nobody, Senor. He ate the meat of the dead horse."

"Dead horse? What dead horse?"

"The thoroughbred, Senor Rod."

"My prize thoroughbred is dead?"

"Yes, Senor Rod, he died from all that work pulling the water cart."

"Are you insane? What water cart?"

"The one we used to put out the fire, Senor."

"Good Lord! What fire are you talking about, man?"

"The one at your house, Senor! A candle fell and the curtains caught on fire."

"What the hell? Are you saying that my mansion is destroyed because of a candle?!"

"Yes, Senor Rod."

"But there's electricity at the house! What was the candle for?"

"For the funeral, Senor Rod."

"WHAT BLOODY FUNERAL??!!"

"Your wife's, Senor Rod". She showed up very late one night and I thought she was a thief, so I shot her with your new Kreighoff Limited Edition Custom Gold Engraved Trap Special with the custom Wenig Exhibition Grade Stock.

SILENCE........... LONG SILENCE.........VERY LONG SILENCE. "Ernesto, if you scratched that shotgun, you're in deep shit."

What did we learn from this story? I'm not sure, but I guess that the main thing is...keep your priorities straight! Secondly, SAFETY FIRST!

The only reason I bring this up, folks, is that during this time of all the decorating and food handling we need to be sure and keep safety foremost in our minds! I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to anyone, OK?

Coffee on the patio this morning. Just keep a lookout for the rain!

Maybe We Should Memorize These Words...!

2011-12-19T00:05:00.005-06:00

Once in a great while, words are written that strike at our very being.

Sometimes they make us sad, sometimes they make us angry, and most always they motivate us in some fashion! That, in my opinion, is what Thomas Paine did when he published American Crisis !

I'm of the opinion that now would be a good time for us to go back and re-read this piece, because these words will never lose their power!

Dec 19, 1776:

Thomas Paine publishes American Crisis

These are the times that try men's souls; the summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.

When these phrases appeared in the pages of the Pennsylvania Journal for the first time, General George Washington's troops were encamped at McKonkey's Ferry on the Delaware River opposite Trenton, New Jersey. In August, they had suffered humiliating defeats and lost New York City to British troops. Between September and December, 11,000 American volunteers gave up the fight and returned to their families. General Washington could foresee the destiny of a rebellion without an army if the rest of his men returned home when their service contracts expired on December 31. He knew that without an upswing in morale and a significant victory, the American Revolution would come to a swift and humiliating end.

Thomas Paine was similarly astute. His Common Sense was the clarion call that began the revolution. As Washington's troops retreated from New York through New Jersey, Paine again rose to the challenge of literary warfare. With American Crisis, he delivered the words that would salvage the revolution.

Washington commanded that the freshly printed pamphlet be read aloud to his dispirited men; the rousing prose had its intended effect. Reciting Paine's impassioned words, the beleaguered troops mustered their remaining hopes for victory and crossed the icy Delaware River to defeat hung-over Hessians on Christmas night and on January 2, the British army's best general, Earl Cornwallis, at the Battle of Princeton. With victory in New Jersey, Washington won not only two battles, but also the love and thanks of man and woman.

Maybe we should reprint the American Crisis and hand it out at every opportunity! Sure couldn't hurt, in my humble opinion!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning, OK? I have some fresh Clementines to go along with it!

Family Time Is Done...!

2011-12-18T00:05:00.003-06:00

I am pleased to say that the family tree is over with and , for the most part, all went well!

Some didn't show, but that wasn't much of a surprise. I'll never understand why some folks commit to going somewhere, and then don't show or call! Very disappointing!

When all was said and done, I think that Mom had a good time and that was the whole point. This is really her holiday. I think that it's just too early for me to get all caught up in the holiday spirit, if you know what I mean.

Besides, I think the folks that get full of the holiday cheer are the oldsters and the youngsters! Nothing lights up like a child's eyes at Christmas, except maybe an oldster's face when remembering the joys of Christmas' past!

Thanks to all that dropped by the blog yesterday and I apologize for not being able to answer the comments. Like we say, sometimes life gets in the way!

Coffee on the patio again. I have some cherry pie to go along with it! Are you game?

No Serious Post Today...!

2011-12-17T00:35:00.000-06:00

I don't know if I mentioned it, but I have a family get-together at Mom's today.

Being as I already know how things are going to turn out, and that I need to get things in shape at Mom's, this will be short!

Since I don't have anything worthwhile to say, and I'm going to need all the grins I can get...I'll just share this video instead! After all, isn't that the main reason that adults watch cartoons?

Sorry for the short posting, but I'm already in a foul mood and the crowd isn't due until later! It's going to be a very long day!

Coffee on the patio this morning. I think I have enough time for a cup!

Remember These "Firecrackers..."?

2011-12-16T00:05:00.001-06:00

This is a repeat post from last year, in case you don't remember it.

My niece requested that I make some of these for our family get-together this weekend, so I figured they must be pretty good! I like 'em, myself! But then, several things I like are not real popular with other folks.

The beauty of these snacks is that they are easy to fix and CHEAP! I like cheap!

Heck, these are certainly cheaper than making home made cookies! Believe me, I know!

Firecrackers

Things You'll Need:

* 1 box of saltine crackers
* 1 envelope of BUTTERMILK Ranch Dressing Mix (powder)
* 1 1/3 c. canola oil
* 1 Tblsp. crushed red pepper flakes
* Gallon size Ziploc bag

Empty all 4 sleeves of crackers into the Ziploc bag, being careful not to break or crush the crackers. If many of the crackers are broken, you may want to remove the smaller pieces.

In a 2-cup Pyrex measuring cup, pour the 1 1/3 c. canola oil (healthier and absorbs quickly into crackers). Whisk in the dressing mix and the crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well. Pour over the crackers in the bag. Seal the bag tightly so oil will not leak out while you toss the bag to coat the crackers with the seasoning mixture.

Turn the bag every 10 min. for one hour; this helps coat the crackers evenly. You may store these in the Ziploc bag or any airtight container.

* May use Ritz crackers as well.

* Great for the holidays.

* Wonderful for just snacking -- just the right amount of salt and spice.

* May add extra crushed red pepper if you really like it HOT!!!

I really am not looking forward to this gathering this year, but for Mom's sake, I'll make the best of it. Seems like the least I can do, ya know?

Anyway, I hope you try and enjoy this snack. Goes over pretty good for something that doesn't take a lot of time! That's a good thing!

Coffee on the patio this morning if it doesn't rain. Don't worry, though, the kitchen isn't far away!

Never Forget These Rights...!

2011-12-15T00:05:00.001-06:00

These are probably some of the most important amendments in our history.

The main thing about these milestones is that they make it clear that the people do not give up all their rights to the government. That is something we need to keep in mind all the time, and we need to make sure that the folks in Washington always remember this as well!

This is one bit of history that should always be foremost in our minds!

Dec 15, 1791:

The Bill of Rights becomes law

On this day in 1791, Virginia becomes the last state to ratify the Bill of Rights, making the first ten amendments to the Constitution law and completing the revolutionary reforms begun by the Declaration of Independence. Before the Massachusetts ratifying convention would accept the Constitution, which they finally did in February 1788, the document's Federalist supporters had to promise to create a Bill of Rights to be amended to the Constitution immediately upon the creation of a new government under the document.

The Anti-Federalist critics of the document, who were afraid that a too-strong federal government would become just another sort of the monarchical regime from which they had recently been freed, believed that the Constitution gave too much power to the federal government by outlining its rights but failing to delineate the rights of the individuals living under it. The promise of a Bill of Rights to do just that helped to assuage the Anti-Federalists' concerns.

The newly elected Congress drafted the Bill of Rights on December 25, 1789. Virginia's ratification on this day in 1791 created the three-fourths majority necessary for the ten amendments to become law. Drafted by James Madison and loosely based on Virginia's Declaration of Rights, the first ten amendments give the following rights to all United States citizens:

1.Freedom of religion, speech and assembly.

2.Right to keep and bear arms for the purpose of a well-regulated militia

3.No forcible quartering of soldiers during peacetime.

4.Freedom from unreasonable search and seizure.

5.Right to a grand jury for capital crimes and due process. Protection from double jeopardy, self-incrimination and public confiscation of private property without just compensation.

6.Right to speedy and public trial by jury and a competent defense.

7.Right to trial by jury for monetary cases above $20.

8.Protection against excessive bail or fines and cruel and unusual punishments.

9.Rights not enumerated are retained by the people.

10.Rights not given to the federal government or prohibited the state governments by the Constitution, are reserved to the States... or to the people.

These amendments are law, and they are law for the people! Any person or persons attempting to skirt these amendments is breaking the law! Maybe we should make sure that we remember this and act accordingly! At least, that's my opinion!

Coffee on the patio this morning. It's foggy, but warm enough!

Another Bad Guy Bites The Dust...!

2011-12-14T00:05:00.001-06:00

It isn't often that criminals like this joker get caught, but this time was different!

All I can say is, it's about time one of these fools not only got caught...but it's time to put a serious hurt on this guy!

Always a surprise when the crazies show up on your doorstep!

Man Accused of Tainting Water Bottles at Gas Station

Updated: Tuesday, 13 Dec 2011, 2:19 PM CST
Published : Tuesday, 13 Dec 2011, 1:31 PM CST

HOUSTON - Police say a man faces a felony charge after he was spotted injecting a substance into water bottles at a west Houston gas station.

Christopher Slaughter, 26, is charged with ‘tampering with consumer product.’

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office says it was last Thursday when Slaughter was spotted injecting an "unknown substance" into water bottles at a gas station located at 4740 Katy Freeway.

Court documents say it was “probable that the product would cause serious bodily injury, knowing that the product would be offered for sale to the public.”

A witness wrote down Slaughter’s license plate number, and officers with the Houston Police Department later tracked him down and took him into custody.

The D.A.’s office says security video caught Slaughter in the act.

Officials did not disclose whether or not anyone purchased the bad water before it was pulled from store shelves.

Read more: http://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/news/local/111213-man-accused-of-tainting-water-bottles-at-gas-station#ixzz1gTQC5sIH

Ya know, I'm tired of hearing the excuse for these evil so-and-so's. I personally don't care if these characters are crazy, stupid, products of broken homes, or just plain mean hearted! It's time for somebody to put an end to their games...or maybe to them!

If it helps...I'll bring the rope!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. Pretty foggy out on the patio!

Politicians Never Seem To Change...!

2011-12-13T00:05:00.004-06:00

It seems like the politicos of long ago and the politicos of today have a lot in common.

Appears that they all want to be the leader, the boss, even the King! They seem to want to have their cake and eat it too! Often it isn't enough that they have more than enough to make most folks happy, they always want more!

Greed and ego are nasty task masters, though, and often will bite you in the butt if you aren't careful! Here's a case in point!

Dec 13, 1776:

General Charles Lee leaves his troops for Widow White's tavern

On this day in 1776, American General Charles Lee leaves his army, riding in search of female sociability at Widow White's Tavern in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.

General George Washington had repeatedly urged General Lee to expedite his movements across New Jersey in order to reinforce Washington's position on the Delaware River. Lee, who took a commission in the British army upon finishing military school at age 12 and served in North America during the Seven Years' War, felt slighted that the less experienced Washington had been given command of the Continental Army and showed no inclination to rush.

Famed for his temper and intemperance, the Mohawk had dubbed Lee Boiling Water. Lee was an adopted tribesman through his marriage to a Mohawk woman, but his union apparently failed to quell his interest in prostitutes. Lee rode to Widow White's tavern with a minimal guard and it was there that Banastre Tarleton and the 16th Queen's Light Dragoons captured him on the morning of December 15.

The former comrades were now captor and captive. After being disappointed in his efforts to acquire a lucrative royal appointment, Lee had retired to the colonies in 1773 and quickly joined the Patriot cause. Tarleton had sworn in a London club that he would hunt down the traitor to the crown and relieve him of his head. Fortunately for Lee, Tarleton failed to keep his promise, although the vain general may well have preferred a quick end to the humiliation of being led from Widow White's tavern to New York City in his nightdress.

The British rejoiced at the capture of the Patriots' best-trained commander, while Washington fruitlessly negotiated for his release. Meanwhile, Lee enjoyed his captivity, even drafting a battle plan for his captors from plush accommodations in which his personal servant maintained his three rooms and no doubt served his food and wine in a most civilized fashion. The British did not act upon his plan, and Lee reported to Valley Forge upon his release in May 1778. After a series of arguments with Washington, Lee was suspended from the army in December 1778 and dismissed in 1780.

This is what happens when your ego makes you think you are above the law or above the rules! Thinking that you can make your own rules don't make it so. Mouthing off to your commanding officer is not the way to win friends and get a promotion.

Letting folks think you are ignorant is much better than opening your mouth and proving them right, don't you think?

Let's have our coffee in the kitchen this morning. I have some fresh cookies!

I Thought That Cheese Tasted Funny...!

2011-12-12T00:05:00.002-06:00

Smugglers will try nearly anything to get their crap into the states.

I have to give them credit for this one, though. I have never heard of this tactic, but I certainly hope none of this ever reaches my grocery store!

Smuggler tried to hide $140,000 drug stash in nacho cheese

Customs and Border officials nabbed a 21-year-old Mexican citizen this week on suspicion of smuggling $140,000 worth of methamphetamine in these three cans of liquid nacho cheese and jalapenos, the LA Times reports. Incredibly, this is not the first time nacho cheese has been used as a smuggling tool. In October, a customs officials found 7 pounds of meth hidden in nacho cheese cans, NPR reports.

Next thing you know, these evil jerks will use my peanut butter to smuggle stuff in! That would be the ultimate insult! I say this has gone far enough! Time to put an end to all this bull!

If they touch my coffee...then we have a REAL problem!

Coffee in the kitchen again, folks! Gonna be that way for a few days!

The Devil Made Me Do It...!

2011-12-11T00:05:00.001-06:00

I know this is Sunday and the last thing you want to see is another advertisement, but this is funny!

Well, at least it's funny to me! However, I've been told more than once that I have a slightly warped sense of humor, and that's probably true! Still, I feel that we all could use a good chuckle and if this helps...then it's worth it!

If you don't find this amusing, then just blame it on my poor taste or my lack of sleep or my dread of the family tree next weekend! All will be considered as true and I will accept all the blame for posting it today!

But like I said...I think it's pretty darn funny and I needed a laugh! So there!

C'mon into the kitchen and I'll get you some fresh coffee! There's a few pieces of strawberry cake left, OK?

Heck Of A Way To Go...!

2011-12-10T00:05:00.002-06:00

It's always sad when folks decide to take their own life.

I'll never understand it, and I don't know what would ever drive someone to do it. That being said, if I were ever going to try and do it I would choose the quickest and most painless way to go. This does not fall into either in my way of thinking!

Suicide by piranha

By HARRY HAYDON
Published: 08 Dec 2011

A TEENAGER is believed to have committed "suicide by piranha" after leaping into a river infested with the flesh-eating fish.

Fisherman Oscar Barbosa, 18, bled to death after jumping out of his canoe.

He suffered dozens of bites to his throat and face on Bolivia's Yata River, local police chief Daniel Cayaya revealed.

He believed Oscar — from Rosario del Yata in the north east of the country — meant to kill himself.

Mr Cayaya said the teenager knew the river well and would have been aware that it is swarming with red piranhas at this time of year. He added that Oscar was thought to be drunk.

The 14-inch fish have razor sharp teeth and hunt in packs to strip their prey of flesh. They are known to devour large snakes and even jaguars in minutes.

Fatal attacks on humans are rare. But swimmers at a river beach in Brazil were attacked by hundreds of piranhas in September.

I'm afraid that with the holidays all but here, we will see more and more of folks taking this path. I hate to think that so many feel that this is the only way out, but every year it seems this happens.

Maybe an extra prayer or two is needed to help those who really need it the most, you know? Certainly couldn't hurt!

Coffee in the kitchen if that's alright. Sausage and biscuits are available if anyone's interested!

You Lost WHAT...?

2011-12-09T00:05:00.001-06:00

What I want to know is...how in the hell do you manage to lose the moon rocks?

I mean, it's not like we can just run down to the corner store and get some more! Someone needs to explain this to me! You better NOT tell me that you accidentally threw them out when you cleaned the store room!

NASA admits losing moon rocks

NASA's Inspector General says the US space agency seems to have misplaced some pieces of the moon, meteorites and other space items.

NASA concedes that more than 500 pieces of space material have been stolen or been missing since 1970.

That includes 218 stolen moon samples that were returned and about two dozen moon rocks and chunks of lunar soil that were reported lost last year.

NASA has loaned more than 21,500 samples to researchers, who in some cases said they never ended up using the material.

The report says NASA needs to keep better track of what is sent to researchers and museums

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/nasa-admits-losing-moon-rocks/story-e6frfku0-1226217824699#ixzz1g0neeZUF

That's the final straw! As of now, you are all grounded from any further trips to space until you find all those rocks! Ya hear me?

C'mon, my friends, let's have coffee in the kitchen this morning.

This Is A Shameful Act...!

2011-12-08T03:06:00.001-06:00

I don't want to hear about all the reasons that this was ever considered to be proper!

No matter the circumstances, these remains deserved better! The memories of these troops deserved better! Their very actions DEMAND better!

Sad that this practice was even considered as the best we could do for those that died in the service of our country!

Report Reveals More Soldiers' Remains Went to Landfill Than Previously Acknowledged

Published December 08, 2011

WASHINGTON – A U.S. Air Force Base disposed of at least 274 U.S. troops' partial remains in a Virginia landfill, it emerged late Wednesday -- far more than had been believed.

The practice of dumping incinerated remains in King George County landfill -- revealed last month -- took place from 2004 until 2008, when remains that could not be returned to the soldiers' families, or that the families asked the military to destroy, began being buried at sea.

Data gathered by The Washington Post shows that 274 identified service members' remains were dumped in that manner by mortuary staff at Delaware's Dover Air Force Base, the main repatriation point for U.S. war dead.

The Post reported that dumping incinerated remains in a landfill was never official policy, nor were senior Pentagon officials informed of the practice.

The newspaper's investigation -- which began when it found a single case of a soldier's remains ending up in the landfill -- culminated in air force officials releasing information that showed 976 pieces of 274 identified troops ended up in the landfill.

Another 1,762 fragments of unidentified remains went to the landfill.

The scandal saw three mortuary staff disciplined when the practice was revealed in November.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/12/07/us-air-force-admits-dumping-over-250-soldiers-remains-in-landfill/#ixzz1fvq0MEhj

I'm sorry, but this bothers me more than I can possibly say! I can't understand it, I don't condone it, and I am ashamed of who ever took part in it! Ashamed!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. It's nice and warm in there!

Remembering Pearl Harbor...!

2011-12-07T00:05:00.006-06:00

America's involvement in World War 2 became set in stone because of the actions of the Japanese on this date.

Certainly one of the most remembered dates in American history, as well as one of the saddest!

Pearl Harbor bombed

At 7:55 a.m. Hawaii time, a Japanese dive bomber bearing the red symbol of the Rising Sun of Japan on its wings appears out of the clouds above the island of Oahu. A swarm of 360 Japanese warplanes followed, descending on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in a ferocious assault. The surprise attack struck a critical blow against the U.S. Pacific fleet and drew the United States irrevocably into World War II.

With diplomatic negotiations with Japan breaking down, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his advisers knew that an imminent Japanese attack was probable, but nothing had been done to increase security at the important naval base at Pearl Harbor. It was Sunday morning, and many military personnel had been given passes to attend religious services off base. At 7:02 a.m., two radar operators spotted large groups of aircraft in flight toward the island from the north, but, with a flight of B-17s expected from the United States at the time, they were told to sound no alarm. Thus, the Japanese air assault came as a devastating surprise to the naval base.

Much of the Pacific fleet was rendered useless: Five of eight battleships, three destroyers, and seven other ships were sunk or severely damaged, and more than 200 aircraft were destroyed. A total of 2,400 Americans were killed and 1,200 were wounded, many while valiantly attempting to repulse the attack. Japan's losses were some 30 planes, five midget submarines, and fewer than 100 men. Fortunately for the United States, all three Pacific fleet carriers were out at sea on training maneuvers. These giant aircraft carriers would have their revenge against Japan six months later at the Battle of Midway, reversing the tide against the previously invincible Japanese navy in a spectacular victory.

The day after Pearl Harbor was bombed, President Roosevelt appeared before a joint session of Congress and declared, "Yesterday, December 7, 1941--a date which will live in infamy--the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan." After a brief and forceful speech, he asked Congress to approve a resolution recognizing the state of war between the United States and Japan. The Senate voted for war against Japan by 82 to 0, and the House of Representatives approved the resolution by a vote of 388 to 1. The sole dissenter was Representative Jeannette Rankin of Montana, a devout pacifist who had also cast a dissenting vote against the U.S. entrance into World War I. Three days later, Germany and Italy declared war against the United States, and the U.S. government responded in kind.

The American contribution to the successful Allied war effort spanned four long years and cost more than 400,000 American lives.

Please find time today to say a prayer for the memory of those lost in battle, as well as for those that offered their all to protect us from all enemies of our great nation.

God bless all those that continue to do so today! God Bless Our Republic!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning! Want some apple pie with that?

Disaster In Halifax Harbor...!

2011-12-06T00:05:00.002-06:00

The most devastating explosion of it's kind happened on this date in 1917, causing unforgettable damage and destruction.

Accidents like this was probably the main force behind so many of the safety procedures we follow today! I would hope this never happens again!

Dec 6, 1917:

The Great Halifax Explosion

At 9:05 a.m., in the harbor of Halifax in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, the most devastating manmade explosion in the pre-atomic age occurs when the Mont Blanc, a French munitions ship, explodes 20 minutes after colliding with another vessel.

As World War I raged in Europe, the port city of Halifax bustled with ships carrying troops, relief supplies, and munitions across the Atlantic Ocean. On the morning of December 6, the Norwegian vessel Imo left its mooring in Halifax harbor for New York City. At the same time, the French freighter Mont Blanc, its cargo hold packed with highly explosive munitions--2,300 tons of picric acid, 200 tons of TNT, 35 tons of high-octane gasoline, and 10 tons of gun cotton--was forging through the harbor's narrows to join a military convoy that would escort it across the Atlantic.

At approximately 8:45 a.m., the two ships collided, setting the picric acid ablaze. The Mont Blanc was propelled toward the shore by its collision with the Imo, and the crew rapidly abandoned the ship, attempting without success to alert the harbor of the peril of the burning ship. Spectators gathered along the waterfront to witness the spectacle of the blazing ship, and minutes later it brushed by a harbor pier, setting it ablaze. The Halifax Fire Department responded quickly and was positioning its engine next to the nearest hydrant when the Mont Blanc exploded at 9:05 a.m. in a blinding white flash.

The massive explosion killed more than 1,800 people, injured another 9,000--including blinding 200--and destroyed almost the entire north end of the city of Halifax, including more than 1,600 homes. The resulting shock wave shattered windows 50 miles away, and the sound of the explosion could be heard hundreds of miles away.

This was, without a doubt, a terrible tragedy! Even though it was a long time ago, the lessons learned from this type of incident have more than likely saved a great many lives. I certainly hope that's the case!

Back in the kitchen again for our coffee this morning. Too cold for me outside!

I'll Drink To That...!

2011-12-05T00:05:00.002-06:00

On this same date, the end came to what was one of the most failed experiments in modern times.

The government learned that you cannot curb the appetites for alcohol just by making it illegal! What you do instead is to create a lot of rich gangsters.

Sounds a lot like the "war on drugs", doesn't it?

Dec 5, 1933:

Prohibition ends

The 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified, repealing the 18th Amendment and bringing an end to the era of national prohibition of alcohol in America. At 5:32 p.m. EST, Utah became the 36th state to ratify the amendment, achieving the requisite three-fourths majority of states' approval. Pennsylvania and Ohio had ratified it earlier in the day.

The movement for the prohibition of alcohol began in the early 19th century, when Americans concerned about the adverse effects of drinking began forming temperance societies. By the late 19th century, these groups had become a powerful political force, campaigning on the state level and calling for national liquor abstinence. Several states outlawed the manufacture or sale of alcohol within their own borders. In December 1917, the 18th Amendment, prohibiting the "manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors for beverage purposes," was passed by Congress and sent to the states for ratification. On January 29, 1919, the 18th Amendment achieved the necessary three-fourths majority of state ratification. Prohibition essentially began in June of that year, but the amendment did not officially take effect until January 29, 1920.

In the meantime, Congress passed the Volstead Act on October 28, 1919, over President Woodrow Wilson's veto. The Volstead Act provided for the enforcement of Prohibition, including the creation of a special Prohibition unit of the Treasury Department. In its first six months, the unit destroyed thousands of illicit stills run by bootleggers. However, federal agents and police did little more than slow the flow of booze, and organized crime flourished in America. Large-scale bootleggers like Al Capone of Chicago built criminal empires out of illegal distribution efforts, and federal and state governments lost billions in tax revenue. In most urban areas, the individual consumption of alcohol was largely tolerated and drinkers gathered at "speakeasies," the Prohibition-era term for saloons.

Prohibition, failing fully to enforce sobriety and costing billions, rapidly lost popular support in the early 1930s. In 1933, the 21st Amendment to the Constitution was passed and ratified, ending national Prohibition. After the repeal of the 18th Amendment, some states continued Prohibition by maintaining statewide temperance laws. Mississippi, the last dry state in the Union, ended Prohibition in 1966.

What I don't understand is why do the PTB continue to pursue avenues that have long ago ceased to be effective? There has to be some better way to approach the problem.

I can't help but think that instead of making a few industrious criminals rich, we need to find some way to recoup part of those vast amounts of money and put it back into the infrastructure of this country!

Just a thought! Coffee in the kitchen this morning, if that's alright with you!

How About A Sunday Mystery...?

2011-12-04T00:05:00.002-06:00

I figured that today would be a good time to share a mystery right out of the history books!

Many of you may have heard of this ship before, but many others may not have had the chance to study it. To this day, the mystery has not been solved and that's what makes it such an enduring maritime tale!

Dec 4, 1872:

The mystery of the Mary Celeste

The Dei Gratia, a small British brig under Captain David Morehouse, spots the Mary Celeste, an American vessel, sailing erratically but at full sail near the Azores Islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The ship was seaworthy, its stores and supplies were untouched, but not a soul was onboard.

On November 7, the brigantine Mary Celeste sailed from New York harbor for Genoa, Italy, carrying Captain Benjamin S. Briggs, his wife and two-year-old daughter, a crew of eight, and a cargo of some 1,700 barrels of crude alcohol. After the Dei Gratia sighted the vessel on December 4, Captain Morehouse and his men boarded the ship to find it abandoned, with its sails slightly damaged, several feet of water in the hold, and the lifeboat and navigational instruments missing. However, the ship was in good order, the cargo intact, and reserves of food and water remained on board.

The last entry in the captain's log shows that the Mary Celeste had been nine days and 500 miles away from where the ship was found by the Dei Gratia. Apparently, the Mary Celeste had been drifting toward Genoa on her intended course for 11 days with no one at the wheel to guide her. Captain Briggs, his family, and the crew of the vessel were never found, and the reason for the abandonment of the Mary Celeste has never been determined.

I always did love a good mystery, but what makes this one even better is the fact that that it is real and not some made up piece of fiction! I, for one, would love to know the whole story, but I suppose we will never find out the true facts.

Like a good mystery book with the last couple of pages torn out, isn't it?

The cold front hasn't come in yet, so let's have our coffee on the patio! OK?

Old Folks With Wheels...!

2011-12-03T00:05:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, our friend Dizzy Dick showed us a few pictures of his new motor home.

If you missed it, you can see it over at his Blog! and I have to admit, it is one good looking piece of hardware!

Seeing his new one made me want to look around for something like that for myself! After browsing around, I think I've found the perfect camper for me!

Not quite as big as Dizzy's, but then I don't have three dogs and a wife. That means I don't need much room! For a single person like me, this might be just the thing!

Now, I need to bring you a medical alert that I just heard about! You might be affected and then, you might not...but either way, I felt it important to bring you this warning! I did not know this...

When you drink vodka over ice, it can give you kidney failure.

When you drink rum over ice, it can give you liver failure.

When you drink whiskey over ice, it can give you heart problems.

When you drink gin over ice, it can give you brain problems.

Apparently, ice is really bad for you.

Warn all your friends !

Whew! I feel much better now that I've got the warning out to all my friends!

How about we get some fresh coffee and sit outside this morning? Should be a nice day until the cold and nasty front comes in!

Another Gift From My Cat...!

2011-12-02T00:05:00.001-06:00

Do you remember when, not to long ago, I showed you a present from my cat?

In case you have forgotten, here is a picture to jog your memory!

Now, as any of you with cats around the house know, they are notorious for bringing little gifts to the humans that feed them. I don't know if the reason is to show off their hunting skills or just to follow nature's urges!

Anyway, last night C.B. brought me another little present. Pretty nice for a Siamese tom, don't you think? At least this one he left outside and didn't bring into my room!

What was it, you asked? Well, instead of just telling you about it, I better show you! Ready...?

In case you don't know, this is a fully grown opossum, Or as we call it here in Texas...a 'POSSUM! Whatever you call it, I don't ever remember hearing of a cat catching one before!

I'm thinking that in a survival situation, this cat of mine might be handy to have around! If he could bring down a possum, he can be in charge of putting meat on the table!

Making the best of each and every team member's talents, right? That's what it's going to take!

Coffee on the patio this morning. We have some nasty weather coming in later!

You Gotta Love This Guy...!

2011-12-01T00:05:00.007-06:00

This old boy lived in a time when men were men.

I don't care who you are, when you have the intestinal fortitude to stand up to 80 Texas cowboys wanting to fight, then you are a "Bad Man!" This man had some major backbone, let me tell ya!

Dec 1, 1884:

Elfego Baca battles Anglo cowboys

Elfego Baca, legendary defender of southwestern Hispanos, manages to hold off a gang of 80 cowboys who are determined to kill him.

The trouble began the previous day, when Baca arrested Charles McCarthy, a cowboy who fired five shots at him in a Frisco (now Reserve), New Mexico, saloon. For months, a vicious band of Texan cowboys had terrorized the Hispanos of Frisco, brutally castrating one young Mexican man and using another for target practice. Outraged by these abuses, Baca gained a commission as deputy sheriff to try to end the terror. His arrest of McCarthy served notice to other Anglo cowboys that further abuses of the Hispanos would not be tolerated.

The Texans, however, were not easily intimidated. The morning after McCarthy's arrest, a group of about 80 cowboys rode into town to free McCarthy and make an example of Baca for all Mexicans. Baca gathered the women and children of the town in a church for their safety and prepared to make a stand. When he saw how outnumbered he was, Baca retreated to an adobe house, where he killed one attacker and wounded several others. The irate cowboys peppered Baca's tiny hideout with bullets, firing about 400 rounds into the flimsy structure. As night fell, they assumed they had killed the defiant deputy sheriff, but the next morning they awoke to the smell of beef stew and tortillas--Baca was fixing his breakfast.

A short while later, two lawmen and several of Baca's friends came to his aid, and the cowboys retreated. Baca turned himself over to the officers, and he was charged with the murder of one of the cowboys. In his trial in Albuquerque, the jury found Baca not guilty because he had acted in self-defense, and he was released to a hero's welcome among the Hispanos of New Mexico. Baca was adored because he had taken a stand against the abusive and racist Anglo newcomers. Hugely popular, Baca later enjoyed a successful career as a lawyer, private detective, and politician in Albuquerque.

Let me say this! If this guy was running for office in my town...I'd vote for him, hands down! I sure wish we had a few men of this caliber in office today!

Let's grab some fresh coffee and sit out on the patio! I'll build a fire in the pit so we can stay warm!

Banking Like The Old Folks...!

2011-11-30T00:05:00.002-06:00

My baby Sis sent me this and I liked it so much I wanted to share it with you!

Maybe if a few more of us took action like this individual, things would get straightened out pretty quickly.

Elder Banking... PRICELESS!!

Shown below, is an actual letter was sent to a bank by an 86 year old woman. The bank manager thought it amusing enough to have it published in the New York Times.

Dear Sir:
I am writing to thank you for bouncing my check with which I endeavoured to pay my plumber last month.

By my calculations, three nanoseconds must have elapsed between his presenting the check and the arrival in my account of the funds needed to honour it.

I refer, of course, to the automatic monthly deposit of my entire pension, an arrangement which, I admit, has been in place for only eight years.

You are to be commended for seizing that brief window of opportunity, and also for debiting my account $30 by way of penalty for the inconvenience caused to your bank.

My thankfulness springs from the manner in which this incident has caused me to rethink my errant financial ways. I noticed that whereas I personally answer your telephone calls and letters, --- when I try to contact you, I am confronted by the impersonal, overcharging, pre-recorded, faceless entity which your bank has become.

From now on, I, like you, choose only to deal with a flesh-and-blood person.

My mortgage and loan repayments will therefore and hereafter no longer be automatic, but will arrive at your bank, by check, addressed personally and confidentially to an employee at your bank whom you must nominate.

Be aware that it is an OFFENSE under the Postal Regulations for any other person to open such an envelope.

Please find attached an Application Contact which I require your chosen employee to complete.

I am sorry it runs to eight pages, but in order that I know as much about him or her as your bank knows about me, there is no alternative.

Please note that all copies of his or her medical history must be countersigned by a Notary Public, and the mandatory details of his/her financial situation (income, debts, assets and liabilities) must be accompanied by documented proof.

In due course, at MY convenience, I will issue your employee with a PIN number which he/she must quote in dealings with me.

I regret that it cannot be shorter than 28 digits but, again, I have modelled it on the number of button presses required of me to access my account balance on your phone bank service.

As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Let me level the playing field even further. When you call me, press buttons as follows:

IMMEDIATELY AFTER DIALLING, PRESS THE STAR (*) BUTTON FOR ENGLISH

#1. To make an appointment to see me.

#2. To query a missing payment.

#3. To transfer the call to my living room in case I am there.

#4 To transfer the call to my bedroom in case I am sleeping.

#5. To transfer the call to my toilet in case I am attending to nature.

#6. To transfer the call to my mobile phone if I am not at home.

#7. To leave a message on my computer, a password to access my computer is required.
Password will be communicated to you at a later date to that Authorized Contact mentioned earlier.

#8. To return to the main menu and to listen to options 1 through 9.

#9. To make a general complaint or inquiry.

The contact will then be put on hold, pending the attention of my automated answering service.

#10. This is a second reminder to press* for English.

While this may, on occasion, involve a lengthy wait, uplifting music will play for the duration of the call.

Regrettably, but again following your example, I must also levy an establishment fee to cover the setting up of this new arrangement.

May I wish you a happy, if ever so slightly less prosperous New Year?

Your Humble Client

PS: Don't make old people mad. We don't like being old in the first place, so it doesn't take much to tick us off.

Bankers, like politicians, tend to forget just who they are working for! I think that it's about time for someone to remind them, don't you?

Now, my friends, let's take our coffee out to the patio. It's not cold, but just a little chilly.

Dark Times For Coffee Drinkers...!

2011-11-29T00:05:00.001-06:00

The rationing that was experienced during the terrible conflict of World War 2 touched nearly everyone in the United States!

So many things were in short supply that people had to become very creative. Since the ending of that particular war, we have been very lucky not to have experienced the kinds of shortages that were the norm back then. If we did, I wonder if we could once again become as creative.

Nov 29, 1942:

Coffee rationing begins

On this day in 1942, coffee joins the list of items rationed in the United States. Despite record coffee production in Latin American countries, the growing demand for the bean from both military and civilian sources, and the demands placed on shipping, which was needed for other purposes, required the limiting of its availability.

Scarcity or shortages were rarely the reason for rationing during the war. Rationing was generally employed for two reasons: (1) to guarantee a fair distribution of resources and foodstuffs to all citizens; and (2) to give priority to military use for certain raw materials, given the present emergency.

At first, limiting the use of certain products was voluntary. For example, President Roosevelt launched "scrap drives" to scare up throwaway rubber-old garden hoses, tires, bathing caps, etc.--in light of the Japanese capture of the Dutch East Indies, a source of rubber for the United States. Collections were then redeemed at gas stations for a penny a pound. Patriotism and the desire to aid the war effort were enough in the early days of the war.

But as U.S. shipping, including oil tankers, became increasingly vulnerable to German U-boat attacks, gas became the first resource to be rationed. Starting in May 1942, in 17 eastern states, car owners were restricted to three gallons of gas a week. By the end of the year, gas rationing extended to the rest of the country, requiring drivers to paste ration stamps onto the windshields of their cars. Butter was another item rationed, as supplies were reserved for military breakfasts. Along with coffee, the sugar and milk that went with it were also limited. All together, about one-third of all food commonly consumed by civilians was rationed at one time or another during the war. The black market, an underground source of rationed goods at prices higher than the ceilings set by the Office of Price Administration, was a supply source for those Americans with the disposable incomes needed to pay the inflated prices.

Some items came off the rationing list early; coffee was released as early as July 1943, but sugar was rationed until June 1947.

I don't know about you, but I don't want to even think about such a shortage of coffee and sugar! I can do without a lot of things, but I do NOT want to have to go without my morning coffee!

You would think nationwide shortages of certain items would be reason enough for folks to stock up, but I guess some lessons have to be learned all over again before they sink in! That's really sad!

For the present, I have plenty of coffee and I'll be more than happy to share it with my friends. Grab a chair here in the kitchen and I'll get the cups!

Let's Go To The Opry...!

2011-11-28T00:05:00.011-06:00

I don't know about you, but growing up, the radio played a lot around my house. The Grand Ole Opry was one show my folks really liked!

Many stars got their beginning on the Opry. This is one of those few shows that made the transition from radio to television without much trouble at all! That didn't happen very often!

Nov 28, 1925:

The Grand Ole Opry begins broadcasting

The Grand Ole Opry, one of the longest-lived and most popular showcases for western music, begins broadcasting live from Nashville, Tennessee. The showcase was originally named the Barn Dance, after a Chicago radio program called the National Barn Dance that had begun broadcasting the previous year.

Impressed by the popularity of the Chicago-based National Barn Dance, producers at WSM radio in Nashville decided to create their own version of the show to cater to southern audiences who could not receive the Chicago signal. Both the Grand Ole Opry and the National Barn Dance aired on Saturday nights and featured folk music, fiddling, and the relatively new genre of country-western music. Both shows created a growing audience for a uniquely American style of music and were launching grounds for many of America's most-loved musicians--the singing cowboy Gene Autry got his first big break on the National Barn Dance. The WSM producers recognized that Americans were growing nostalgic for the rural past, so all live performers at the Grand Ole Opry were required to dress in hillbilly costumes and adopt old-time names.

The four-and-a-half-hour Grand Ole Opry program became one of the most popular broadcasts in the South, and like its Chicago cousin, helped make country-western an enduring part of the popular American musical landscape.

This show, and the others like it, set the standard for good family entertainment. That's one thing we are not seeing too much of in this day and age!

So many performers became household names after appearing on the Opry. It was a great place to make a start and gather all the advice available from people well known in the business.

I'm thinking that coffee in the kitchen is the way to go this morning, OK?

Big Man For A Big Job...!

2011-11-27T00:05:00.002-06:00

It seems like the pressure in the White House gives all who live there a big appetite!

For some it's money, some it's power, and some it's food! Only problem is, when you don't curb your appetite, it starts to show! That's what the problem was with Taft!

Let's face it...when your housekeeper starts to complain to your wife about your weight it's time to lose a little!

Nov 27, 1911:

White House housekeeper frets over presidential waistline

On this day in 1911, Elizabeth Jaffray, a White House housekeeper, writes in her diary about a conversation she'd had with President William Howard Taft and his wife about the commander in chief's ever-expanding waistline.

According to the White House Historical Association, Jaffray was also quoted regarding Taft's growing girth in a 1926 book called Secrets of the White House. In it, she detailed a typical breakfast consumed by the 332-pound president: "two oranges, a twelve-ounce beefsteak, several pieces of toast and butter and a vast quantity of coffee with cream and sugar." When she and Taft's wife, Nellie, commented on his eating habits, he jovially responded that he was planning to go on a diet, but lamented the fact that "things are in a sad state of affairs when a man can't even call his gizzard his own."

Taft's 5' 11" frame carried anywhere between 270 pounds and 340 pounds over the course of his adult life. According to his biographers, he had to have his shoes tied by his valet and often got stuck in the White House bathtub and had to be lifted out by two or more men. Once, while visiting the czar of Russia, Taft split his pants seam while descending from a carriage.

Taft's weight did not stop him from serving a full term as president, nor did it prevent him from accepting a subsequent appointment as chief justice of the Supreme Court in 1921—he was the first and only president to hold both offices. In fact, he successfully dropped down to 270 pounds after leaving the White House. Still, by today's body-mass indices, Taft remained clinically obese. Although he rarely drank more than the occasional beer and did not smoke, his obesity and a lifelong struggle with severe sleep apnea eventually took its toll. In March 1930, he retired as chief justice citing poor health. He died the following month from heart failure.

You know, I think I'd rather have a president that was food hungry than one that was power hungry, wouldn't you? Just a thought for this Sunday morning!

I think we should have our fresh coffee in the kitchen this morning. Cold and wet outside!

Just For Laughs...!

2011-11-26T00:54:00.000-06:00

We haven't had one of these for a while, so I figured it was about time!

My Sis is here visiting from North Carolina, so in her honor I an sticking with the food theme! After all, we all have a LOT of left overs...right?

Enjoy the cartoon and have a great day!

Fresh coffee on the patio this morning, unless it starts raining!

Let's Talk Potatoes...!

2011-11-25T00:05:00.003-06:00

I know, I know! The day after one of the biggest meals you've eaten all year and the Hermit wants to talk about food!

I realize it seems a little crazy, but this article might provide some useful information! I have to admit that there were a few things I found while studying about the spud I didn't know. Seems like I learn something new nearly every day...and I love that!

Here are just a few of the unusual uses for the potato!

Remove a broken light bulb from its socket safely. Just cut a thick slice from one end of a large, raw potato and press the cut surface of the remaining potato into the jagged glass. Twist to unscrew and toss into the trash, potato and all. (Probably a good idea to make sure the socket is switched off).

Remove excess salt from a soup or stew. Just cut up a raw potato or two and add to the broth.

Reduce puffy under-eyes. Lay a slice of raw potato over each eye and lie back for a few minutes.

Remove stains on clothing, carpets, upholstery. Grate a couple of raw potatoes into a cup or two of water and allow to soak. Squeeze out the potato shreds and daub the water on the stain. Alternatively, try rubbing the stain with the cut edge of a raw potato.

Remove stains on hands that come from working with berries, beets and other plant materials. Just rub hands with the cut surfaces of a raw potato.

Hold decorative arrangements (flowers, branches) in place. Poke holes in a large potato set at the bottom of a bowl and arrange your flowers, herbs or branches in the holes to keep them in place. Add water if needed.

Remove tarnish from silverware and other items by soaking them in potato water (left after boiling potatoes). Of course, if you don’t have any tarnish to remove, add the potato water to a soup stock. (Or soak your feet in it. Many swear by this folk remedy for tired, aching feet.)

I got this information from the pages of the Old Farmer's Almanac and wanted to share it with you, food related or not! You can read the whole article if you want right here!

If you want some really interesting reading, I suggest you drop by the Almanac at one of the above links and read the complete article! There is just no way I can do it justice here today. OK?

Let's have our coffee at the kitchen table this morning. It's still a little chilly outside!

Have A Great Day...!

2011-11-24T00:05:00.004-06:00

I hope that everyone has a wonderful day with friends and family!

However you chose to celebrate this day, try and find the time to give thanks in whatever fashion you see fit!

Believe it or not...we all have so much to be thankful for. It may be hard to see at times, but our reasons for being thankful are all around us. Trust me on this one, my friends!

One of the things I'm most thankful for this holiday is all my friends that I get to visit with almost every day! That means you, ya know?

In case I haven't said it lately, Thank You All for coming by!

Coffee on the patio this morning! HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE!

A Gift For Politicians...!

2011-11-23T00:05:00.002-06:00

Even though we don't like them, look up to them, or care what happens to most of them... politicians are people ! At least that's what I've been told!

In case you have one on your Christmas list, I've found the perfect gift for you to give them! I guess you could say "It's just what the doctor ordered!"

Radium woo: the bad health science of yesteryear wants to irradiate your colon

By Cory Doctorow at 9:27 pm Sunday, Sep 19

Modern quackery might be full of terrible, life-threatening health advice, but it's really not got a patch on the golden age of radium-based medicine, when the newly discovered radioactive material was held to cure practically anything, especially in suppository form. Yowch.

If this was 15 May 1915, we could all be attending the Illinois State Medical Society's annual meeting at the Masonic Temple in Springfield, Illinois.And if we went to booth 18, we could've bought some fine, newish radium-based products that would be enjoyed drinking or bathing in. And all for the cause of human progress, the radium-based nonsense promised cures for all sorts of ills: rheumatism, dandruff, dull teeth, gout, sexual problems, general malaise, and on and on...

Many of these companies employed the real stuff, affecting thousands of people, radium-based cure-alls being ingested, injected, applied and bathed-in. For example, there were numerous companies distributing 'radium water" (such as "Radithor" by William J.A. Bailey's company), radium suppositories ("in a cocoa butter base"), toothpaste ("Doramad", distributed by Doramad Radioaktive Zohncreme during WWII, to Germans), cosmetics ("Tho-Radia"), and many different varieties of radium-enriched healing belts (to be worn or slept on). There were plenty of other products that used the "radium" name but didn't actually use the substance itself, further selling the idea of its usefulness on the individual level. There was radium beer, nail clippers, starch, cigars, polish, headache tablets, razor blades, butter and of course, condoms.

I have to thank the folks over at BoingBoing for this article! I thought it was pretty cool!

Amazing what folks have been known to do...all in the name of health! It's a wonder so many of us made it as far as we have! I do think many of the effects are starting to show up now, especially in some of those in office!

How about we have some coffee in the kitchen? A little chilly out on the patio this morning!

I'll Admit My Ignorance...!

2011-11-22T00:05:00.003-06:00

I always find something interesting to educate me if I look hard enough!

I had no idea about this man's place in our history! I love finding things like this!

Nov 22, 1783:

John Hanson, so-called first president, dies

On this day in 1783, John Hanson, the first president of the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation, dies in his home state of Maryland. Hanson is sometimes called the first president of the United States, but this is a misnomer, since the presidency did not exist as an executive position separate from Congress until the federal Constitution created the role upon its ratification in 1789.

Hanson was the self-educated son of Charles County, Maryland, farmers. His family had lived in Maryland for three generations beginning with the emigration from England of his grandfather, for whom he was named. At age 25, John married 16-year-old Jane Contee in Maryland. Their lasting union produced nine children, five of whom survived to adulthood, although their son Peter was later killed in action as a Continental soldier at Fort Washington, New York, in November 1776.

Hanson's political career began in 1757 with his election to the Maryland Colonial Assembly. He returned to represent Charles County again from 1758-1763, 1765, 1766 and 1768-1769. As colonial-British relations frayed, Hanson took a seat in the revolutionary Annapolis Convention, which took control of the colony from the British in 1774 and renamed itself the Assembly of Freemen in 1776. An outspoken supporter of the Patriot cause, Hanson was instrumental in Maryland's decision to back the rebels laying siege to British-controlled Boston in the aftermath of the battles of Lexington and Concord.

Named a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1779, Hanson served in that body from 1780 to 1782, including a term as the president of Congress (a position similar to that of prime minister in the British Parliament) from 1781 to 1782, during which time the Articles of Confederation were finally ratified and General George Washington defeated the British army at Yorktown, Virginia. Upon the ratification of the Articles on March 1, 1781, the Continental Congress became the "Congress of the Confederation" or the "United States in Congress Assembled." Hanson was the first president of that body, but not of the United States.

I think that every day I learn more about just how ignorant I am about parts of our early history! Just goes to show how much more I need to study and learn, since the public school system seems to have left out so many little details that are really pertinent to the birth of our system.

Thank goodness for home schooling!

Coffee outside on the patio this morning! Nice and cool, which is very pleasant!

My Birthday Special...!

2011-11-21T00:05:00.002-06:00

Yes, today is my birthday!

In keeping with my ancient tradition (which I started this year) I decided to have something very special! Instead of the traditional cake and candles, which I couldn't afford anyway because of the cost of such a staggering number, I found this obscene recipe for a new hot chocolate that is just too decadent to not try!

Besides, because it's my birthday I'm entitled, right?

The process was simple. The results were spectacular. The hot chocolate was richly chocolaty, but retained a distinctly doughnut flavor. The hot chocolate also was wonderfully thick, thanks to the thickening properties of the flour in the doughnut. If you prefer a thinner hot chocolate, follow the recipe as directed, then thin with additional milk at the end.

It also is important to use a cake-style doughnut (not yeast-raised), such as a chocolate or old fashioned.

We used glazed or sugar-coated doughnuts with great results.

And for a wonderful variation, make the recipe as directed, then thin it with a bit of strong hot coffee. After all, coffee and doughnuts pair so well.

Written by
J.M. Hirsch

CHOCOLATE DOUGHNUT HOT CHOCOLATE

2 C. whole milk
1 glazed or sugar coated chocolate doughnut
½ C. semisweet chocolate chips
Pinch salt
In a blender, combine the milk and doughnut. Puree until very smooth. This could take a minute or longer.
Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan. Whisking constantly, heat over medium until it thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the chocolate chips and salt, whisking until the chocolate has melted and the cocoa is smooth. Serve immediately.

You can find the main article right here!

Now, my friends, let's have some coffee out on the patio! I have some spare donuts to share!

Payback, Whale Style...!

2011-11-20T00:05:00.001-06:00

We just keep on messing and messing with Mother Nature, until She finally gets a little payback!

This was the case here. I'd be willing to bet that none of these survivors ever went whaling again!

Nov 20, 1820:

American vessel sunk by sperm whale

The American whaler Essex, which hailed from Nantucket, Massachusetts, is attacked by an 80-ton sperm whale 2,000 miles from the western coast of South America.

The 238-ton Essex was in pursuit of sperm whales, specifically the precious oil and bone that could be derived from them, when an enraged bull whale rammed the ship twice and capsized the vessel. The 20 crew members escaped in three open boats, but only five of the men survived the harrowing 83-day journey to the coastal waters of South America, where they were picked up by other ships. Most of the crew resorted to cannibalism during the long journey, and at one point men on one of the long boats drew straws to determine which of the men would be shot in order to provide sustenance for the others. Three other men who had been left on a desolate Pacific island were saved later.

The first capture of a sperm whale by an American vessel was in 1711, marking the birth of an important American industry that commanded a fleet of more than 700 ships by the mid 18th century. Herman Melville's classic novel Moby Dick (1851) was inspired in part by the story of the Essex.

Whaling has never been a pretty business, and the old ways of taking and dressing whales bloody and brutal at best. I'm sure there was more than just one case of a big whale attacking and sinking a ship.

One thing about it...these sailors paid a very dear price for their part in this misadventure!

Coffee on the patio this morning. I hope it's going to be a little rainy this morning!

Back To The Airport...!

2011-11-19T00:05:00.002-06:00

Well, after a nice visit to North Carolina to visit with my sister Mom is coming back home Saturday.

Of course, that means another trip across town to the big airport to pick her up. I don't mind, though.

Mom has been ready to come home for several days now and tells me this will probably be her last extended trip. She likes being at home and around her friends, some of them having serious health issues.

I know it is hard to be away from friends when at anytime the dreaded call may come that they have passed on. Still, it's always nice to get away for a bit.

Mom's cat, Amy, will sure be glad to have her back home. I've been going over to Mom's and keeping the cat company off and on during the day, but it isn't the same as having her human at home to sleep with! In fact, Amy has decided to sleep over at my house tonight! Tired of being alone in the house, I guess. I normally turn on the television for her during the early evening to give her the feeling someone is there, but she caught on to the fact that it was only noise, so now she doesn't fall for that!

Anyway, Mom will be back just in time to help me plan what to serve up for Thanksgiving. Probably won't be many here which will disappoint Mom, but that's the way it's been the past few years. Family get togethers are becoming a thing of the past, it seems!

However, that's a dead horse and I'm not going to beat it very much this year! At least, I am gonna try and hold my tongue mostly! Notice I said mostly!

I'm leaving the coffee pot set up for ya, so just help yourself...OK?

Blame It On The Railroads...!

2011-11-18T00:05:00.006-06:00

First, let me say that I appreciate all the comments from yesterday when I took the day off.

I probably have some of the most considerate readers online...without a doubt!

Now, about today's little slice of history! I think that most of us have often wondered about how the different time zones came into being. I know that I wondered about it myself and to be honest...I didn't have a clue!

Thanks to the fine folks at History.com, I found the answer! At least, as good an answer as any! That's what I wanted to share with you today!

Nov 18, 1883:

Railroads create the first time zones

At exactly noon on this day, American and Canadian railroads begin using four continental time zones to end the confusion of dealing with thousands of local times. The bold move was emblematic of the power shared by the railroad companies.

The need for continental time zones stemmed directly from the problems of moving passengers and freight over the thousands of miles of rail line that covered North America by the 1880s. Since human beings had first begun keeping track of time, they set their clocks to the local movement of the sun. Even as late as the 1880s, most towns in the U.S. had their own local time, generally based on "high noon," or the time when the sun was at its highest point in the sky. As railroads began to shrink the travel time between cities from days or months to mere hours, however, these local times became a scheduling nightmare. Railroad timetables in major cities listed dozens of different arrival and departure times for the same train, each linked to a different local time zone.

Efficient rail transportation demanded a more uniform time-keeping system. Rather than turning to the federal governments of the United States and Canada to create a North American system of time zones, the powerful railroad companies took it upon themselves to create a new time code system. The companies agreed to divide the continent into four time zones; the dividing lines adopted were very close to the ones we still use today.

Most Americans and Canadians quickly embraced their new time zones, since railroads were often their lifeblood and main link with the rest of the world. However, it was not until 1918 that Congress officially adopted the railroad time zones and put them under the supervision of the Interstate Commerce Commission.

Just another case of not waiting on big government to handle the problem. Of course, this time the changes were made by folks that probably had a lot more power than the government wanted to butt heads with! Come to think about it, this is a lot like how it is today. Big money boys can pretty much do what they want and tell the government folks to "like it or lump it!"

Thanks again for keeping an eye on things for me yesterday. I really appreciate it!

Anyone want some fresh coffee out on the patio? I sure could use the company!

No Post Today...!

2011-11-17T00:22:00.000-06:00

Sorry, but I have no post this morning. I'm taking the day off.

Have a great day!

Some Good Music From The Old School...!

2011-11-16T00:23:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I just need a little pick me up in the middle of the week!

I can't think of any better way to bring on a new day than some good music! When I say "good", I mean good to me!

Many of you may not remember when the Big Bands ruled the airways...but neither do I! I do, however, remember my folks playing their records all the time . this particular band was one of their favorites!

Almost makes me want to dance, ya know?

Let's have some fresh coffee on the patio. I'll turn up the stereo and put on another record or two!

The Articles Of Confederation...A Rocky Start !

2011-11-15T00:05:00.001-06:00

You know, getting this grand ol' country started wasn't nearly as easy as many of us think!

Although winning our independence from the British was a good beginning, it certainly wasn't the end of the journey. From the Articles of Confederation right up to our Constitution, it's been a bumpy and educational ride! See for yourself!

Nov 15, 1777:

Articles of Confederation adopted

After 16 months of debate, the Continental Congress, sitting in its temporary capital of York, Pennsylvania, agrees to adopt the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union on this day in 1777. Not until March 1, 1781, would the last of the 13 states, Maryland, ratify the agreement.

In 1777, Patriot leaders, stinging from British oppression, were reluctant to establish any form of government that might infringe on the right of individual states to govern their own affairs. The Articles of Confederation, then, provided for only a loose federation of American states. Congress was a single house, with each state having one vote, and a president elected to chair the assembly. Although Congress did not have the right to levy taxes, it did have authority over foreign affairs and could regulate a national army and declare war and peace. Amendments to the Articles required approval from all 13 states. On March 2, 1781, following final ratification by the 13th state, the Articles of Confederation became the law of the land.

Less than five years after the ratification of the Articles of Confederation, enough leading Americans decided that the system was inadequate to the task of governance that they peacefully overthrew their second government in just over 20 years. The difference between a collection of sovereign states forming a confederation and a federal government created by a sovereign people lay at the heart of debate as the new American people decided what form their new government would take.

In 1787, an extra-legal body met in seclusion during Philadelphia's summer heat to create this new government. On March 4, 1789, the modern United States was established when the U.S. Constitution formally replaced the Articles of Confederation.

Between 1776 and 1789, Americans went from living under a sovereign king, to living in sovereign states, to becoming a sovereign people. That transformation defined the American Revolution.

See? I told you that it's been a bumpy ride so far, but if I were you, I would hang on tight! I don't think that the bumpy ride is over just yet! In fact, the road ahead may just be the bumpiest yet!

Why don't we have our coffee out on the patio this morning? Here's a bowl of fresh oranges to go along with it!

"Hungry" For Some Food History...?

2011-11-14T00:05:00.004-06:00

As a lot of you might know, I'm fond of food!

If you could see my waistline, you would know just how fond of food I am! Therefore it stands to reason that I enjoy some of the early history of our food industry!

This article from History.com covers some of the love affair between the automobile and the drive-ins, both important in their own way!

I'm sure that, like me, many of you have a lot of memories associated with one or both of these icons! Wonder how the "Drive In" got it's start?

Nov 14, 2006:

Last day for Texas' celebrated drive-in Pig Stands

On November 14, 2006, state officials close the last two of Texas' famed Pig Stand restaurants, the only remaining pieces of the nation's first drive-in restaurant empire. The restaurants' owners were bankrupt, and they owed the Texas comptroller more than $200,000 in unpaid sales taxes.

A Dallas entrepreneur named Jessie G. Kirby built the first Pig Stand along the Dallas-Fort Worth Highway in October 1921. It was a roadside barbecue restaurant unlike any other: Its patrons could drive up, eat and leave, all without budging from their automobiles. ("People with cars are so lazy," Kirby explained, "they don't want to get out of them.") Kirby lured these car-attached customers with great fanfare and spectacle. When a customer pulled into the Pig Stand parking lot, teenaged boys in white shirts and black bow ties jogged over to his car, hopped up onto the running board—sometimes before the driver had even pulled into a parking space—and took his order. (This daredevilry won the servers a nickname: carhops.) Soon, the Pig Stand drive-ins replaced the carhops with attractive young girls on roller skates, but the basic formula was the same: good-looking young people, tasty food, speedy service and auto-based convenience.

That first Pig Stand was a hit with hungry drivers, and soon it became a chain. (The slogan: "America's Motor Lunch.") Kirby and his partners made one of the first franchising arrangements in restaurant history, and Pig Stands began cropping up everywhere. By 1934, there were more than 130 Pig Stands in nine states. (Most were in California and Florida.) Meanwhile, the chain kept innovating. Many people say that California's Pig Stand No. 21 became the first drive through restaurant in the world in 1931, and food historians believe that Pig Stand cooks invented deep-fried onion rings, chicken-fried steak sandwiches and a regional specialty known as Texas Toast.

But wartime gasoline and food rationing hit the Pig Stands hard, and after the war they struggled to compete with newer, flashier drive-ins. By the end of the 1950s, all of the franchises outside of Texas had closed. By 2005, even the Texas Pig Stands were struggling to survive—only six remained in the whole state—and by the next year they had all disappeared.

In 2007, state bankruptcy trustees found a way for one Pig Stand, in San Antonio, to reopen. Though it will probably never be as popular as it once was, and customers now have to get out of their cars and go inside to eat, the restaurant remains a sentimental favorite of many Texans.

You know what? All this history of food and drive-ins made me hungry! Somehow I just knew that would happen, didn't you? Guess I had better try and come up with a snack.

Feel like some fresh coffee on the patio? I'll give ya a slice of "Key Lime Pie" to go with it!

Something To Think About This Sunday...!

2011-11-13T00:31:00.000-06:00

I know you have seen this before.

Still, I firmly believe that we need to revisit it just one more time!

Coffee on the patio this morning. Have a great day!

A Case Of Good Karma...!

2011-11-12T00:05:00.003-06:00

This is definitely a case of good karma coming back to you.

I'll bet that the folks that did the adoption had no idea what a good move this would turn out to be!

Just goes to show that doing a good deed will sometimes pay off in a very positive way!

Newly adopted dog runs off burglar from Ohio home

Associated Press
Published: November 11, 2011 - 09:51 AM

HILLSBORO, OHIO: A Southwest Ohio couple who adopted a Saint Bernard to save him say he saved their home from burglary a few hours later.

Rubert “Lee” Littler says he was taking Hercules outside Wednesday night when the 135-pound dog started growling, then charged after a man running out of their basement. The dog bit into the man’s ankle as he climbed a fence and got away. Police say the home’s phone and cable lines had been cut.

Lee and Elizabeth Littler brought the dog home from Highland County’s pound less than seven hours earlier. The dog had been found, bloody and dehydrated, by hikers on Oct. 31.

The Littlers tell The Times-Gazette of Hillsboro they wanted to keep him from being euthanized but now figure he’s earned a permanent home.

Keeping the pup around sounds like a very good idea to me! In fact, I'd say that all signs are pointing to this being a match up that's just meant to be!

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. That OK with you?

Remembering Veteran's Day...!

2011-11-11T00:05:00.001-06:00

This is certainly one day that we should never forget.

This particular holiday has been around for a long time, but the name was originally Armistice Day. This article from the Almanac will explain it all.

Veteran's Day (United States)

Originally Armistice Day, commemorating the signing of the agreement that ended World War I at 11:00 A.M., November 11, 1918, this federal holiday was changed to Veterans Day in 1954. At that time, it became a day to honor all the men and women who have served in the armed forces of the United States. Each year, special ceremonies are held at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Consider spending some time on-line learning more about our nation's veterans. The Great War Society has developed a Web site devoted to World War I educational materials. The World War II Memorial celebrates the victory of "the greatest generation" with a design that uses moving water to harmonize with its natural surroundings. Visit the Korean War Veterans Memorial online; this moving memorial, dedicated in 1995, is the latest addition to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. See a registry of all the names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington. Learn more about the military men and women who are on duty today.

This is also Remembrance Day (Canada)—November 11! This day honors veterans who have died in service to their country. All veterans should be remembered...both ours and those of our friends!

God Bless Our Republic!

A little chilly outside this morning, so I'm voting for coffee in the kitchen...OK?

What About "Indian Summer...?"

2011-11-10T00:05:00.001-06:00

I know most of us have heard the term "Indian Summer" most of our lives, but have you ever wondered exactly what it meant?

I have, so I did a little reading at the Old Farmer's Almanac and found this article about it. It's been a while since I've posted anything from the almanac, and this seemed a good time to make up for that!

I just love all the information you can find there!

Enjoying Indian Summer in your neck of the woods?

In the fall, it seems that almost any warm day is referred to by most people as "Indian summer."

And, while their error is certainly not of the world-shaking variety, they are, for the most part, in error. Here are criteria for an Indian summer:

As well as being warm, the atmosphere during Indian summer is hazy or smoky, there is no wind, the barometer is standing high, and the nights are clear and chilly.
A moving, cool, shallow polar air mass is converting into a deep, warm, stagnant anticyclone (high pressure) system, which has the effect of causing the haze and large swing in temperature between day and night.

The time of occurrence is important: The warm days must follow a spell of cold weather or a good hard frost.

The conditions described above must occur between St. Martin's Day (November 11) and November 20. For over 200 years, The Old Farmer's Almanac has adhered to the saying, "If All Saints' (November 1) brings out winter, St. Martin's brings out Indian summer."

Why is Indian summer called Indian summer? There are many theories. Some say it comes from the early Algonquian Native Americans, who believed that the condition was caused by a warm wind sent from the court of their southwestern god, Cautantowwit.

The most probable origin of the term, in our view, goes back to the very early settlers in New England. Each year they would welcome the arrival of a cold wintry weather in late October when they could leave their stockades unarmed. But then came a time when it would suddenly turn warm again, and the Native Americans would decide to have one more go at the settlers. "Indian summer," the settlers called it.

You just have to love the fact that the Native Americans made use of any good weather they had to "have another go" at the settlers. Pretty determined bunch, wouldn't you say?

It's cool but dry this morning, so let's have our coffee out on the patio. In the 60s, so that's not too bad!

The Hunt For Parking Spots...!

2011-11-09T00:05:00.018-06:00

I know that I've mentioned the problem with finding parking space when I go to the VA.

When the Chronicle ran this story about what steps were being taken to make this problem go away, I thought I would share it. I'm glad that they are admitting to the problem and are planning to add some more parking. We certainly need it!

I'm in better shape than many guys that visit because at least I can walk the 1/4 mile or so from where I park to where the entrance is. For others the situation is a lot more serious!

Houston VA hospital to fix shortage of 1,200 parking spots with new garages

At last: Houston’s Veterans Affairs hospital will try to improve the nightmarish parking situation at the facility, which has seen the number of outpatient visits double in the last 10 years to more than 1 million annually.

The increased traffic has had an obvious impact. Anyone who has tried to park at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center on Holcombe is familiar with the challenge of finding somewhere, anywhere to park in the overflowing lot, and the temptation — after circling for what seems like forever — to give up and risk being ticketed or towed by parking on a median or curb. Many veterans expect to lose most of a day to attend a single doctor’s appointment, in part because of the parking problems.

Today VA announced new parking garages are in the works.

That’s the good news.

The bad news is that construction, scheduled to begin in February, won’t be fully completed until after 2017, and will temporarily eliminate some spaces in the already overcrowded lot.

VA will provide free shuttle buses from overflow lots off-site.

A sketch of a new parking garage planned for the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston.

Here’s more details from the VA announcement:

With the number of outpatient visits to the Houston VA campus doubling in the last 10 years, parking has become a serious problem for veterans, volunteers, visitors and staff. Efforts have been made in the past few years to increase parking availability, but a more dramatic strategy had to be taken to address the issue.

“The facility already expanded surface parking with an additional 480 parking spaces,” said Mouris Ibrahim, (the hospital’s planning and construction chief). “However, this new parking project will provide vertical expansion, and is a better option to reduce walking distances and use our property more efficiently.”

The parking project will be completed in two phases.

Phase one includes the construction of a four to six-story parking structure near the Almeda gate that will house 200 cars. This garage is scheduled to be completed in December 2012. Phase two is an expansion to phase one with an additional 400 spaces and is expected to be completed by September 2013.

Future plans include the construction of a second parking garage near the Old Spanish Trail entrance to house 600 cars. It is scheduled to begin construction in 2017.

Some parking spaces will be displaced while construction takes place; however, steps have been taken to mitigate this situation.

“We are in the process of leasing 300 off-site parking spaces,” said Ibrahim. “The leased parking will be nearby and a free shuttle bus service will be provided.”

If nothing else, I always get my exercise when I go for my blood test! Guess that's a good thing. Still, being closer would be nice!

Raining outside, so let's have our coffee in the kitchen!

The Real "Doc" Holliday...!

2011-11-08T00:05:00.001-06:00

Sometimes we think that we know a person from long ago, when what we really know is myth and tall tales.

This was the case with "Doc" Holliday! Some of what we think we know is truth, and the rest is shadowy at best! I guess that happens when the true is not as fancy as the untrue.

In some cases, though, both are very close to being the same. Maybe that's why the facts so often are fuzzy at best!

Nov 8, 1887:

Doc Holliday dies of tuberculosis

On this day, Doc Holliday--gunslinger, gambler, and occasional dentist--dies from tuberculosis.

Though he was perhaps most famous for his participation in the shootout at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona, John Henry "Doc" Holliday earned his bad reputation well before that famous feud. Born in Georgia, Holliday was raised in the tradition of the southern gentleman. He earned his nickname when he graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery in 1872. However, shortly after embarking on a respectable career as a dentist in Atlanta, he developed a bad cough. Doctors diagnosed tuberculosis and advised a move to a more arid climate, so Holliday moved his practice to Dallas, Texas.

By all accounts, Holliday was a competent dentist with a successful practice. Unfortunately, cards interested him more than teeth, and he earned a reputation as a skilled poker and faro player. In 1875, Dallas police arrested Holliday for participating in a shootout. Thereafter, the once upstanding doctor began drifting between the booming Wild West towns of Denver, Cheyenne, Deadwood, and Dodge City, making his living at card tables and aggravating his tuberculosis with heavy drinking and late nights.

Holliday was famously friendly with Wyatt Earp, who believed that Holliday saved his life during a fight with cowboys. For his part, Holliday was a loyal friend to Earp, and stood by him during the 1881 shootout at the O.K. Corral and the bloody feud that followed.

In 1882, Holliday fled Arizona and returned to the life of a western drifter, gambler, and gunslinger. By 1887, his hard living had caught up to him, forcing him to seek treatment for his tuberculosis at a sanitarium in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. He died in his bed at only 36 years old.

Legend or not, folks like ol' Doc just seem to often die alone. But, as the saying goes..."gone, but not forgotten!" Now if we can just decide if what we remember is fact or fiction. Guess what really matters is the memory itself, ya think?

Now, my friends, let's get some fresh coffee and sit outside.OK by you?

Airport Bound...!

2011-11-07T00:05:00.001-06:00

This is not going to be much of a post today, as I have to take Mom to the airport across town.

Actually, it isn't really across town...just 38 miles from my place. That's one way! Not really too far, but then I have to turn around and come back another 38 miles! Not a good way to spend the morning, especially since I'm going by way of the Toll road

Still, I'd rather pay the few dollars toll than have to fight the traffic all the way there and back, ya know?

The main reason Mom is going to the airport this morning, is that Baby Sis and my niece, along with yours truly, are paying for Mom's tickets to North Carolina to visit with my older Sis "B". It was a birthday present for Mom since we couldn't come up with anything else she wanted. She's been wanting to take a trip to North Carolina, so we figured this was as good a gift as anything else.

So it appears that I am going to be the official Cat sitter for the next two weeks. Actually, her cat Amy is pretty easy to care for. Clean her box once a day, feed her when she's hungry, and go let her outside when she wants out. Oh, I also have to turn on the television on for her at night so she won't be as lonely! Believe it or not, that seems to work pretty well!

When she goes out, she usually comes over to my place when she wants to go back inside Mom's. I swear that she can send me telepathic messages when she wants! Must be a cat thing, because my cat seems to do the same!

I'm sorta the house sitter, alternate pet keeper, repairman, and errand boy anyway...so this won't be anything new to me!

Anyway, I'll get back as soon as I can. Just help yourself to the coffee...OK?

Welcome To Texas...!

2011-11-06T00:05:00.002-05:00

I'm sure that none in their party expected things to be easy when they landed.

Let's face it...these ol' boys had a rough go from the start. First the bad time they faced in Florida, then a shipwreck on Galveston Island! Nothing like Texas coast in the summer, and make no mistake, folks, November in Texas is almost like Summer!

Nov 6, 1528:

Cabeza de Vaca discovers Texas

On this day, the Spanish conquistador Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca is shipwrecked on a low sandy island off the coast of Texas. Starving, dehydrated, and desperate, he is the first European to set foot on the soil of the future Lone Star state.

Cabeza de Vaca's unintentional journey to Texas was a disaster from the start. A series of dire accidents and Indian attacks plagued his expedition's 300 men as they explored north Florida. The survivors then cobbled together five flimsy boats and headed to sea, where they endured vicious storms, severe shortages of food and water, and attacks from Indians wherever they put to shore. With his exploration party reduced to only 80 or 90 men, Cabeza de Vaca's motley flotilla finally wrecked on what was probably Galveston Island just off the coast of Texas.

Unfortunately, landing on shore did not end Cabeza de Vaca's trials. During the next four years, the party barely managed to eke out a tenuous existence by trading with the Indians located in modern-day east Texas. The crew steadily died off from illness, accidents, and attacks until only Cabeza de Vaca and three others remained. In 1532, the four survivors set out on an arduous journey across the present-day states of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Captured by the Karankawa Indians, they lived in virtual slavery for nearly two years. Only after Cabeza de Vaca had won the respect of the Karankawa by becoming a skilled medicine man and diplomat did the small band win their freedom.

In 1536, the men encountered a party of Spanish slave hunters in what is now the Mexican state of Sinaloa. They followed them back to Mexico City, where the tale of their amazing odyssey became famous throughout the colony and in Europe. Despite the many hardships experienced by Cabeza de Vaca and his men during their northern travels, their stories inspired others to intensify exploration of the region that would one day become Texas.

My guess is that Cabeza and the remnants of his crew were certainly glad to get back home, if they ever did. Probably didn't want to make a return trip to the states, either!

Back to Summer temperatures here in Houston, so let's have our coffee on the patio!

Another Honest Working Man...!

2011-11-05T00:05:00.002-05:00

More and more we see stories of honest, everyday working men and women.

Most of the time, these folks are older. Maybe they become more honest with age, or maybe they have always been that way. I, for one, don't believe something like honesty can be learned. I'm thinking that it's something you have to be born with.

Anyway, I wanted to share this story because it shows the side of humanity we don't see often enough, at least in my humble opinion!

Plumber finds $20,000 in an air duct, turns it in

FLORIDA —

A Florida plumber found $20,000 in an air duct and decided to do the right thing.

Jerry Laliberte was trying to access a leaky shower when he found the money and decided to turn it in.

The 62-year-old employee of Air and Energy said he was scared at first when he found the cash wrapped in foil.

"I was scared. It scared me. My hands were shaking," said Laliberte. "I wasn’t sure what to do, to tell the truth."

Laliberte said he believes he only did what everybody should do.

The previous homeowner was a widow who stashed money all over the house. She told her children where the money was when she died, but forgot one of her hiding places.

If you have an older relative that insist on hiding all their money at home, try and get them to write down where it is before they pass. If you can't do that, then at least make sure you have an honest plumber or repairman!

I'm ready for some fresh coffee on the patio this morning...are you?

Having A Crappy Day...?

2011-11-04T00:05:00.003-05:00

Sometimes in life, the choices you make come back to cover you with crap!

This was the case here. My feelings on this is...if you are going to bring "crap" into my country, then you are going to have to swim through "crap" to do so!

Sometimes the bad guys get a dose of justice!

5 Trapped in Border Tunnel Filled with Sewage

The secret border tunnel is believed to connect Mexico to Otay Mesa, a distance of 150 meters

By R. Stickney

Five people were trapped in a tunnel near the U.S.-Mexico border and had to be rescued early Wednesday.

The four men and one woman were discovered inside the tunnel partly filled with sewage in Otay Mesa. The tunnel is believed to lead to Mexico, which is about 150 meters away.

The five were trapped at a point in the tunnel where a fence made it impossible to get through to the U.S.

U.S. Border Patrol agents used a dog to find the opening in the 9800 block of Via De La Amistad behind a company called Artic Containers.

Agents believe a manhole on the Mexican side is the entrance.

San Diego and Chula Vista firefighters worked for about 45 minutes to dig out the trapped victims, bringing them out one by one.

They then hosed down each person because of their exposure to sewage. The men were stripped to their underwear. The woman was taken behind a tarp where she was hosed off.

All the victims were healthy without any physical injuries, according to Border Patrol.

A robot was sent into the hole to investigate, but it got stuck according to officials.

Border tunnels are not new to the Tijuana-San Diego region. In November 2010, a tunnel running 600 yards under the border was discovered along with nearly 30 tons of pot.

Soon after, a second tunnel was discovered equipped with lighting, ventilation, and a rail system for drugs to be carried on a small cart.

U.S. authorities have discovered more than 125 clandestine tunnels along the Mexican border since the early 1990s, though many were crude and incomplete.

I think that for these folks, this turned out to be a crappy situation! At least they got washed off when they were rescued. The normal treatment for them on the other side is just to get "hosed!"

It's chilly here, but coffee on the patio will perk us right up...don't you think?

Revisiting Thomas Jefferson...!

2011-11-03T00:05:00.002-05:00

Not many times in history do men like this come along.

When we do find one, going back and revisiting them from time to time is well worth while!

Thomas Jefferson was a very remarkable man who started learning very early in life and never stopped.

At 5, began studying under his cousin's tutor.

At 9, studied Latin, Greek and French.

At 14, studied classical literature and additional languages.

At 16, entered the College of William and Mary.

At 19, studied Law for 5 years starting under George Wythe.

At 23, started his own law practice.

At 25, was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses.

At 31, wrote the widely circulated "Summary View of the Rights of British America �and retired from his law practice.

At 32, was a Delegate to the Second Continental Congress.

At 33, wrote the Declaration of Independence .

At 33, took three years to revise Virginia 's legal code and wrote a Public Education bill and a statute for Religious Freedom.

At 36, was elected the second Governor of Virginia , succeeding Patrick Henry.

At 40, served in Congress for two years.

At 41, was the American minister to France , and negotiated commercial treaties with European nations along with Ben Franklin and John Adams.

At 46, served as the first Secretary of State under George Washington.

At 53, served as Vice President and was elected president of the American Philosophical Society.

At 55, drafted the Kentucky Resolutions, and became the active head of the Democratic- Republican Party.

At 57, was elected the third president of the United States .

At 60, obtained the Louisiana Purchase , doubling the nation's size.

At 61, was elected to a second term as President.

At 65, retired to Monticello .

At 80, helped President Monroe shape the Monroe Doctrine.

At 81, almost single-handedly created the University of Virginia , and served as its first president.

At 83, died on the 50th anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence, along with John Adams

Thomas Jefferson knew because he himself studied the previous failed attempts at government. He understood actual history, the nature of God, his laws and the nature of man. That happens to be way more than what most understand today. Jefferson really knew his stuff. A voice from the past to lead us in the future:

John F. Kennedy held a dinner in the white House for a group of the brightest minds in the nation at that time. He made this statement: "This is perhaps the assembly of the most intelligence ever to gather at one time in the White House with the exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone."

"When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe ." -- Thomas Jefferson

"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."

-- Thomas Jefferson

"It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world."

-- Thomas Jefferson

"I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them." -- Thomas Jefferson

"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government." -- Thomas Jefferson

"No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms." -- Thomas Jefferson

"The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government."

-- Thomas Jefferson

"The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." -- Thomas Jefferson

"To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical."

-- Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson said in 1802:

"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies.

If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property - until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered."

It would be nice to see someone of Jefferson's caliber stand up and take charge again! Don't you think?

Coffee on the patio this morning...so we can enjoy the cool front!

Now That's A Lot Of Bull...!

2011-11-02T00:05:00.001-05:00

Actually, I guess I should say "a lot of BEEF!"

Even by Texas standards, this was a big place! Problem is, it was owned by a bunch of folks back east. So often in the old West, this was the case! However, this story does have a happy ending for many folks wanting to start a small family spread.

Nov 2, 1912:

XIT Ranch sells its last head of cattle

On this day, the XIT Ranch of Texas, once among the largest ranches in the world, sells its last head of cattle.

Despite the popular image of the cattle rancher as an independent and self-reliant pioneer, big-city capitalists and stockholders owned many of the most important 19th century ranches. The Chicago capitalists behind the XIT—also known as the Capitol Syndicate Ranch—were trying to get rich by catering to the growing American passion for fresh western beef. They received the land in exchange for financing a state capitol building in Texas.

Given the aridity of the region, the Chicago capitalists determined that ranching would be the only profitable use for their new land. They quickly built up a massive but highly efficient cattle-raising operation that stretched over parts of nine Texas counties. At its peak, the XIT had more than 160,000 head of cattle, employed 150 cowboys, and encompassed nearly 3 million acres of the Texas panhandle—an unusually large tract of land even by western standards.

As land prices increased in Texas and cattle prices fell, the owners of the XIT realized they could make more money by selling their land. By 1912, the XIT abandoned ranching altogether with the sale of its last herd of cattle. The corporate managers gradually sold the remainder of their property to farmers and smaller ranchers throughout the first half of the 20th century. By 1950, the once-mighty XIT had control of only 20,000 acres.

Just imagine, only having control of 20,000 acres! Might be enough for most of us to scrape by on, don't you think? At least, by breaking the main ranch up into smaller parcels, many dreams of starting family spreads could be fulfilled!

Coffee on the patio this morning...before the cold front comes in tonight!

Mom's Birthday Today...!

2011-11-01T00:05:00.001-05:00

Today is my Mother's birthday!

In keeping with that thought, I have a special video in her honor. Then, I'm taking the rest of the day off to help her celebrate!

Just a birthday song from a familiar voice of her generation!

Happy Birthday, Mom! I love Ya...!

Fresh coffee outside this morning!

One Of My Favorite Writers...!

2011-10-31T00:05:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite fictional characters of all time is Sherlock Holmes!

Therefore, it stands to reason that the person who created that character would become one of my favorite authors, don't you think? It takes a special mind to create the people, places, and the puzzles that mystery writers can put together! Very special!

Oct 31, 1892:

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes published

On this day, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Arthur Conan Doyle, is published. The book was the first collection of Holmes stories, which Conan Doyle had been publishing in magazines since 1887.

Conan Doyle was born in Scotland and studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where he met Dr. Joseph Bell, a teacher with extraordinary deductive power. Bell partly inspired Doyle's character Sherlock Holmes years later.

After medical school, Conan Doyle moved to London, where his slow medical practice left him ample free time to write. His first Sherlock Holmes story, "A Study in Scarlet," was published in Beeton's Christmas Annual in 1887. Starting in 1891, a series of Holmes stories appeared in The Strand magazine, and Conan Doyle was able to give up his medical practice and devote himself to writing.

Later collections include The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes (1894), The Return of Sherlock Holmes (1905), and The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes (1827). In 1902, Conan Doyle was knighted for his work with a field hospital in South Africa. In addition to dozens of Sherlock Holmes stories and several novels, Conan Doyle wrote history, pursued whaling, and engaged in many adventures and athletic endeavors. After his son died in World War I, Conan Doyle became a dedicated spiritualist. He died in 1930.

If nothing else, you have to admit this ol'boy was a very interesting individual! Certainly multifaceted, I would say!

Oh, and just in case you were wondering...my favorite writer of all time...BAR NONE...is Stephen King! I offer this information while reminding you that Christmas is just around the corner, and books make great gifts!

Now, my friends, I have some fresh coffee to share out on the patio. It's a little cool, but the coffee is hot!

They Call Me "Count Dracula...!"

2011-10-30T00:05:00.053-05:00

Probably very few people are as recognizable as Bela Lugosi, the original Dracula!

When you think of what an impact this man had on the horror film genre, you would expect that he must have made a lot of money. Not true!

The fact of the matter is, he died a pauper! In fact, Frank Sinatra paid for his funeral! You can read his entire bio here!

I thought you might like to see just what kind of money he made for his films, just as a matter of history!

Salary

Glen or Glenda (1953)
$1,000 (flat rate, 1 day)

Vampire Over London (1952)
$5,000 (flat rate)

Bud Abbott and Lou Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
$1,500 per week with ten week guarantee

Genius at Work (1946)
$5,000

The Body Snatcher (1945)
$3,000

The Return of the Vampire (1944)
$3,500

You'll Find Out (1940)
$3,750

Son of Frankenstein (1939)
$4,000

S.O.S. Coast Guard (1937)
$1,500

Postal Inspector (1936)
$5,000 (flat rate)

The Invisible Ray (1936)
$4,000

The Raven (1935)
$5,000

Phantom Ship (1935)
$10,000

Mark of the Vampire (1935)
$3,000

Gift of Gab (1934)
$250 (1 day)

The Black Cat (1934)
$3,000

Chandu the Magician (1932)
$2,500

White Zombie (1932)
$800/week

Dracula (1931)
$3,500

Not much money for such a well known icon, wouldn't you say? Certainly not by today's standards!

Just a little halloween history for you today!

Now let's have some fresh coffee on the patio, OK?

Great Vintage Halloween Cartoons...!

2011-10-29T00:05:00.005-05:00

You all know that Halloween is just around the corner, and I thought that today would be a good time to watch some vintage cartoons.

These are old! When I say old, I mean even older than me! Actually, these are from 1933! That means both of these were from the time we all call the "good old days!"

Believe it or not, these were almost banned at the time because some of the images were considered too disturbing! Boy, how times have changed, huh?

Another from long ago!

It's nice to know that before all the craziness of modern days started, this time of the year was actually fun for many folks! Hayrides, Fall festivals, harvest dances...just good old fashion fun!

Might be nice to experience a little of that again, don't you think?

Coffee in the kitchen this morning. Almost too cool to sit on the patio, but I sure like this weather!

The Start Of A Lawless Time...!

2011-10-28T00:05:00.001-05:00

Often the best of intentions can lead to terrible results. As the old saying goes "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions!"

I'm sure that if the folks in the government had known what the passing of prohibition was going to lead to, they would have done things differently. At least, I would certainly hope so!

Here is a little history of what turned out to be the start of the most crime-ridden times in our history!

Oct 28, 1919:

Congress enforces prohibition

Congress passes the Volstead Act over President Woodrow Wilson's veto. The Volstead Act provided for the enforcement of the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, also known as the Prohibition Amendment.

The movement for the prohibition of alcohol began in the early 19th century, when Americans concerned about the adverse effects of drinking began forming temperance societies. By the late 19th century, these groups had become a powerful political force, campaigning on the state level and calling for national liquor abstinence. In December 1917, the 18th Amendment, prohibiting the "manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors for beverage purposes," was passed by Congress and sent to the states for ratification. In January 1919, the 18th amendment achieved the necessary two-thirds majority of state ratification, and prohibition became the law of the land.

The Volstead Act, passed nine months later, provided for the enforcement of prohibition, including the creation of a special unit of the Treasury Department. Despite a vigorous effort by law-enforcement agencies, the Volstead Act failed to prevent the large-scale distribution of alcoholic beverages, and organized crime flourished in America. In 1933, the 21st Amendment to the Constitution was passed and ratified, repealing prohibition.

Many gangsters and crooked politicians made a lot of money during the time of prohibition, and the flow of booze was never totally stopped. Only when booze was legal and taxed did the crime slow down...and the money from the taxes could be used for some much needed "public works" programs. Sort of the lesser of two evils!

Nice and cool this morning, so let's have our coffee on the patio. No 'skeeters out that I can see!

How About Some Fun With Puns...?

2011-10-27T00:05:00.001-05:00

I started to skip posting today, but I decided to share some puns instead.

I have no idea why, but I guess I'm just getting a little nuts after the last week! Believe me, you don't really want to know!

Let's just take things lightly today and maybe have a little grin...OK?

PUNS

The fattest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.

I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out it was only an optical Aleutian.

She was only a whiskey maker, but he loved her still.

A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class, because it was a weapon of math disruption.

No matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.

A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.

A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blownapart.

Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall. The police are looking into it.

Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center read: "Keep off the Grass."

The soldier who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

In a democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.

When cannibals ate a missionary, they got a taste of religion.

If you jumped off the bridge in Paris, you'd be in Seine.

A vulture boards an airplane, carrying two dead raccoons. The stewardess looks at him and says, "I'm sorry, sir, only one carrion allowed per passenger."

Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly, so they lit a fire in the craft. Unsurprisingly it sank, proving once again that you can't have your kayak and heat it too.

Did you hear about the Buddhist who refused Novocain during a root canal? His goal: to transcend dental medication.

Sorry, I know some of these are pretty lame, but sometimes when you read them again and again...lame becomes funny! Who knew?

I'm thinking I may need a vacation! Ya reckon?

How about some fresh coffee on the patio? Actually, the coffee is in a mug and we take the mug to the patio...just wanted to clarify that!

Idiots With Guns...!

2011-10-26T00:05:00.007-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me at how stupid some folks can be about the proper handling of guns.

This couple could use some very basic education in safety around the home as well! Looks like it's time to add a little more chlorine to the gene pool!

Kalispell couple thankful to have escaped blast

Associated Press | Posted: Tuesday, October 25, 2011 2:16 pm |

Fire officials in Kalispell are investigating whether a stray bullet accidentally fired from a new hunting rifle may have struck a natural gas line, eventually leading to an explosion that destroyed a house over the weekend.

No matter the cause, Art and Diane Wright feel very fortunate they were not home at the time of Saturday's blast.

Art Wright told the Daily Inter Lake (http://bit.ly/v8N7Rg) he was familiarizing himself with the rifle at about 5:45 a.m. Saturday when he accidentally fired it into the floor of his house.

Kalispell Fire Chief Dave Dedman said until investigators find the natural gas pipe, he can't say if the bullet punctured it. But he says it's possible.

Diane Wright said after her husband left to go hunting she smelled an odor, but thought it was from the gun. She took a shower and then left the house to run some errands.

She's convinced an unplanned stop at the grocery store saved her.

"If I had been home instead of going to the grocery store, I would have opened the door," she said, adding that a firefighter told her that action alone could have set off an explosion.

"If she had turned a light switch on, it could have been a whole different story," Dedman said.

The couple was able to recover some tools from the garage "and some of my jewelry blew up onto the roof of a neighbor's house, oddly enough, so we were able to get to that," Diane Wright said.

Neighbors the Wrights didn't even know offered to let them house-sit their home while the homeowners are out of state.

Information from: Daily Inter Lake, http://www.dailyinterlake.com

I'm thinking these people certainly had an angel looking out for them on this day!

Let's have some fresh coffee on the patio this morning!

How About Some Popcorn And Coffee...?

2011-10-25T00:05:00.001-05:00

Years ago, back in the dark ages when I was a lot younger, we had songs that needed no words to make them sound great!

No fancy titles were needed, either! So often the one word title said it all.

Many of the old timers will remember these songs, and actually they still sound pretty good for their age! Sorta like us, I guess!

Just something a little silly for a Tuesday! After all, can't be all serious all the time! Besides, I'm old and need all the smiles I can get!

Fresah coffee on the patio this morning. Pass the popcorn, please!

Another Crazy "Old Person" Story...!

2011-10-24T00:05:00.001-05:00

This is another case of trying to decide if the person was extremely brave or just plain stupid!

I guess we could say it was all the fault of dementia or old age, but that would take the fun out of the story! It's more fun to speculate about this lady and her choice in her "golden years!"

First barrel ride down Niagara Falls

On this day in 1901, a 63-year-old schoolteacher named Annie Edson Taylor becomes the first person to take the plunge over Niagara Falls in a barrel.

After her husband died in the Civil War, the New York-born Taylor moved all over the U. S. before settling in Bay City, Michigan, around 1898. In July 1901, while reading an article about the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, she learned of the growing popularity of two enormous waterfalls located on the border of upstate New York and Canada. Strapped for cash and seeking fame, Taylor came up with the perfect attention-getting stunt: She would go over Niagara Falls in a barrel.

Taylor was not the first person to attempt the plunge over the famous falls. In October 1829, Sam Patch, known as the Yankee Leaper, survived jumping down the 175-foot Horseshoe Falls of the Niagara River, on the Canadian side of the border. More than 70 years later, Taylor chose to take the ride on her birthday, October 24. (She claimed she was in her 40s, but genealogical records later showed she was 63.) With the help of two assistants, Taylor strapped herself into a leather harness inside an old wooden pickle barrel five feet high and three feet in diameter. With cushions lining the barrel to break her fall, Taylor was towed by a small boat into the middle of the fast-flowing Niagara River and cut loose.

Knocked violently from side to side by the rapids and then propelled over the edge of Horseshoe Falls, Taylor reached the shore alive, if a bit battered, around 20 minutes after her journey began. After a brief flurry of photo-ops and speaking engagements, Taylor's fame cooled, and she was unable to make the fortune for which she had hoped. She did, however, inspire a number of copy-cat daredevils. Between 1901 and 1995, 15 people went over the falls; 10 of them survived. Among those who died were Jesse Sharp, who took the plunge in a kayak in 1990, and Robert Overcracker, who used a jet ski in 1995. No matter the method, going over Niagara Falls is illegal, and survivors face charges and stiff fines on either side of the border.

With story after story like this popping up almost daily, why so many folks continue to think that "old" means dull and slow is beyond me! It's like the old saying goes..."growing older is mandatory, growing up is not!"

Let's get some fresh coffee and sit outside. Better put on some mosquito repellent! They are plenty bad right now!

Consider The Owl...!

2011-10-23T00:05:00.001-05:00

You know, many animals we have around today would put most super heroes to shame!

Some of them have some pretty amazing powers (or abilities, if you will) that almost stagger the imagination! Just to show exactly what I'm talking about, let's consider the owl!

The Owl Is Daredevil and Wolverine Combined

Quick: What's special about owls? They can turn their heads all the way around? They can swallow mice whole?

This is a great example right here, because apparently owls can't do sh**, if comic books are our guide. While there are several owl-themed superheroes and villains in existence, they tend to be thinly veiled Batman knockoffs with no powers to speak of. Even the superpowered ones usually possess some rather sad and useless power, such as Owlman's ability to "cause confusion."

Well, all we can say to that is comic book writers need to open a damned encyclopedia every now and then. We mean, look at the creature we're dealing with here. Besides having the best night vision of all birds, owls also have a satellite dish built into their face. The circular pattern of feathers on there? Yeah, that acts as a dish, focusing the sound and giving them what may be the best directional hearing in the world. And even weirder, those feather patterns can also, no kidding, be individually adjusted to increase reception.

How well does this work? Let's put it this way: An owl can hear a mouse stepping on a twig from 75 feet away. Owls also have an incredible sense of sound elevation, meaning they can detect the height from which sound is emanating, because one ear hole is placed higher than the other. All of this is to pinpoint the exact location of the owl's prey, which in fact works so well that the bird can make in-flight course corrections to strike at its victim.

And keep in mind, we're talking about a nocturnal hunter -- they're using this finely tuned sense of hearing to take down prey that the owl can't even see. So, basically we're looking at a flying Daredevil but with a slew of built-in razor blades on its hands a la Wolverine.

To demonstrate how these powers would be handy fighting crime, we'd like to show you the following video. imagine that the lemming is crime:

To make matters even worse for the criminal element, owls also happen to have special serrated feathers that allow them to fly silently like a stealth fighter. Furthermore, they have the lowest wing-loading ratio of any bird, meaning they can fly extremely slow if they need to, or carry large loads. The owl superhero wouldn't need to zoom in like Superman or swing around like Spider-Man -- he'd just slowly, silently glide over the area, hearing everything and casting an ominous shadow in the night sky. Hell, he'd be his own Bat Signal, if the Bat Signal could swoop in at evildoers and carry them away.
Oh, and if you're now inspired to become an owl-themed superhero based on all this, there is one genus of owl that has already come up with a kick-ass name for you: Strix.

Read more: 5 Birds With Abilities That Put Superheroes to Shame | Cracked.com http://www.cracked.com/article_19483_5-birds-with-abilities-that-put-superheroes-to-shame.html#ixzz1bZaObp6B

Now, I don't know about you...but I'm impressed! I never knew any of this information about the owl! All I can say is "Super heroes, watch out!"

Let's grab some fresh coffee and sit outside this morning! Gonna be Summer again until the middle of the week!

Another "Only In Texas" Story...!

2011-10-22T00:05:00.001-05:00

It's a very good thing that Texans have a good sense of humor, because it seems we spend a lot of time laughing at ourselves!

With all the serious things going on in the crazy world around us, it's refreshing to read a story containing a little humor. That's not to say the lady in this story isn't sore and bruised, but I know you can see the underlining humor in this article...at least, I certainly hope so!

Woman allegedly beaten with frozen armadillo

This Texas critter turned into a weapon in a parking lot throwdown near Dallas. (Chronicle file)

Only in Texas: Dallas police are on the lookout for a man who could face assault charges for throwing a frozen armadillo at a 57-year-old woman near Dallas.

The woman, My Fox Dallas-Fort Worth reports, met the man in a parking lot to purchase the armadillo carcass, which she planned to eat.

During a fight over its price, he hit her with the animal in the leg and the chest, leaving bruises on her body.

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas law prohibits the sale of live armadillos, but a few Texans still go after their meat.

Those people who eat armadillo meat will find that thorough cooking should make the meat noninfectious (of mycobacterial leprosy). However, the greatest hazard of being infected (if any) may be encountered during cleaning and dressing of the animals.

….Eating armadillos is not widespread in Texas today, although it has been popular among south-of-the-border residents for more than a hundred years. Many Texans, especially during the depression years of the 1930s, dined on the “Hoover Hog,” referring to the armadillo as “poor man's pork!"

I've known folks to fight over some crazy things before, but to see them fight over a frozen armadillo...that's going just a little too close to the edge, even for me!

Pretty strange, folks, pretty strange!

How about some fresh coffee on the patio? Pretty warm already, but we'll tough it out!

See? We Told Ya So...!

2011-10-21T00:05:00.001-05:00

Sometimes in this country, we rag on the government and the politicians and the law makers...but that's our right!

If another country wants to dispute the fact that we have the right to do so, then let the discussion begin!

Declaration of Independence Was 'Illegal,' Grounds for Treason, British Lawyers Say

Published October 20, 2011

The Declaration of Independence was “illegal” and “treasonable,” according to a team of British lawyers, the BBC reports.

The assertion was made at a debate in Philadelphia between British and American lawyers over the legitimacy of the United States of America.

At the debate, pitting British barristers against American attorneys, lawyers for the former colonial power argued that America’s Declaration of Independence in 1776 “was not only illegal, but actually treasonable,” according to the BBC.

The lawyers representing the British team decided that the Americans had no legal grounds for secession. "[President Abraham] Lincoln made the case against secession and he was right."

"The grievances listed in the Declaration were too trivial to justify secession," the British lawyers wrote. "The main one -- no taxation without representation -- was no more than a wish on the part of the colonists, to avoid paying for the expense of protecting them against the French during seven years of arduous war and conflict."

The American lawyers countered that the Declaration's validity has been proven by "subsequent independence movements which have been enforced by world opinion as right and just."

At the end of the debate, which took place just a few blocks away from where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration, a vote was held and American independence was reaffirmed.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/10/20/declaration-independence-was-illegal-grounds-for-treason-british-lawyers-say/?test=latestnews#ixzz1bNVQTT6f

Funny how a country can be so divided so much of the time, but let someone from another place try to step in and start bad-mouthing the system...then it's "Katy, Bar The Door!"

Done in fun or not, this is certainly something to think about!

Let's have some coffee on the patio this morning. I got fresh brownies!