Dancin' In The Moonlight

Know I've used this one before but hey. Seems to fit Halloween somehow.

Hi world, how are you this All Hallow's Eve?

Have a functioning furnace again, thanks to my pal's nephew, bless his heart. Couldn't really afford it but tipped him and his friend an extra $400 for doing everything so fast and cheap. Explained that because of him I spent hours yesterday cleaning up the blinking basement. Mouse traps, mouse ummm leavings, cobwebs, spiderwebs, dust, small appliances that no longer work all hit the dust. Even an old clothes basket got tossed. Vacuumed the whole shootin' match, including dusting off the stupid furnace and hot water heater. Vacuumed the ceiling (no it isn't finished), held off on doing laundry, cleaned up a year's worth of mess on a 10' long workbench. I mean, this was a 'class' job. The UPSTAIRS isn't as clean as the basement (but de-cluttered up there too).

Didn't want him telling my bud how bad it was down there before!

Work went well too but it's so packed with stuff to do that I can't remember most of it. The troops are happy and productive...am trying to hire another great person, so things are looking up. New boss still being great, coworkers (except an insecure type who's threatened by ability--oh well) are very supportive and great. Even eating plan going fine until tonight when I had umm chocolate left over. Well, that's going to work. Let's make everyone ELSE get fat!

Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe is thrilled to have heat again, although the space heaters did a good job.

Had trick-or-treaters for the first time in 3 years--lots of them. They were all sweet little kids under 10.

Did a Cuba post for Zombieslayer.

Off to bed. Have to get up early.

Nighty night, world!

Bridg

I Can Always Find My Cuban Skies In Rosalinda's Eyes

Zombieslayer asked me to write about Cuba and my trip there because Us-sians aren't allowed to visit there.

Actually they are. You're just not allowed to spend money there (they changed that policy).

It's quite a poor country. There are no highs and lows in terms of income. Everyone's poor and that's it.

I went there with a good friend (Doris) who had just left our office (run by idiots) and before she'd gone to her new job. Doris being the thorough soul that she is booked us into a 4 star all inclusive place called Breezes Jibacoa.

Let me tell you, never consider going lower than a 4 star there.

But I digress. We heard ahead of time to bring things to leave with people. Money doesn't cut it. Clothes, books, paper, soap (especially soap), things like that are very valued. So we brought colored pencils, dictionaries, anything we could fit into the suitcases including T shirts to leave. We didn't know that soap was an issue or we would have brought lots.

You can't go anywhere without hearing about Che Guevera. I mean NOWHERE. The U.S. doesn't have any figure to compare except perhaps A. Lincoln or (my personal fave) JFK, but these folks are mad about Che. Every tour, every building--it's inescapable.

There are lots of historical sites to see, and there is what looks like rain forest. The beaches are combed every day by machine, so if you like to collect shells like I do, forget it, it isn't happening. The water was quite blue, and very shallow for at least a quarter of a mile out. All you have to do to see brightly colored tropical fish is stand still. They swim up to you. Tangs, grunts, sargeants, parrot-fish--tons of them. The sand isn't white, it's brown.

The plumbing (in this resort) is Russian, and quite old. It works well considering it dates probably to the 50s or 60s. Cars? You aren't allowed to drive anywhere and don't go off the beaten path either. I have no idea why but the police will definitely keep you on the straight and narrow.

Energy is ancient. There is no solar power, many deserted gas stations/gas lines. Much has fallen into rack and ruin. Occasionally someone will blame the U.S. but I didn't hear much of that. In fact, only heard it once in a week.

There are tons of Canadians there. About 90% of the tourists are Canadian with a sprinkling of American, German and French. Over 90% of the island's income is from tourism, so tourists are well-treated.

This resort had food that put Club Med to shame (it was exceptional). I hate eggs with a passion, but the average Cuban family might have an egg a week or a month. There were so many egg dishes I felt really guilty just looking at it, and it's hard to make me feel that way. Tipping was officially discouraged but definitely expected, even in the all-inclusive. I didn't travel at all except once--to Havana. It reminded me of the deep South in the U.S., right down to the gorgeous (yes gorgeous) cemetaries. Part of the trip included an open air bazaar, and many women were begging for soap. I didn't even realize that they were talking to me until someone came along and chased them away. You don't see much livestock there and the few around are very skinny (like many Caribbean countries). The people were friendly. They tended to stick to themselves, and were not allowed on the beach of the resort (it turns out that's a good thing due to the begging). The staff at the resort stuck to themselves. They did allow in artists during the week that we were there, all of whom were eager to chat about their work, family, etc. Some of the stuff they sold was fantastic (paintings in bright oils, muted water colors; wooden or black coral jewellery) and some was junky. Rum was cheap, cigars cost the earth. Ridiculously expensive. Clothes were quite reasonable and I wish I could remember the details (i.e. what counts as reasonable--let's say $7 for a T shirt) and tourist-y. It would be hard to distinguish between the tourist shop in Breezes Jibicoa and one in say, Grand Bahama Island.

It's strange being in a place that lives that much on tourism. In North America, walking down a main drag in any city, you see folks going about working mostly. In Cuba that just isn't the case. No one's anywhere. Mostly lounging on corners if anywhere at all, but mostly no one's around. The buildings are for the most part grey cementy things or downtown, brightly colored but in obvious structural distress--extremely so. Cars you don't see that often, but you don't see people riding on animals either. Bikes I guess.

I think that the chief attraction of Cuba is it's inexpensiveness and nearness to North America. Our trip was about $1200 if I remember right (each) and that was a few years ago. The place that we went to was not 'the party place', Verradero. There weren't loud parties or that kind of thing. Did see kids in the dining room but not many on the beach, etc. Odd.

Lots of people that I know of in Canada love Cuba. I am not one of them-- found it depressing and sad. Good place to go for a week but certainly no longer than that. You hear a LOT about the old days, when (so we were told) the Mafia built Havana up as a hot spot (nightclubs, gambling) and to be honest, I think that many of the people living there long for those days. There are many stories of famous actors (etc.) who used to hang out there in the 'good old days', now at least 50 years gone. It must be very hard on these older folks remembering much better times, and even worse for the younger ones who don't have the memories of a better time.

The majority of the people I saw were in their middle age (40s and 50s) with younger kids. Not all that many older people. Not many teenagers. Of course no fast food places and no 'dance halls' that I saw. Some restaurants but again, in the tourist areas. An island trying to feed itself with not much of an agricultural resource base (like water) isn't going to do much growing of anything. The 'national dish' is black beans on white rice. It symbolizes the mixing of the cultures. Not just black and white but Aztec, Spanish, you name it. Same goes for the Cuba Libre drink (it's a mix of black and white liqueurs). There are many stories to be told, and Cubans are a story-telling folk.

When I go away somewhere, it's because I"m desperate for quiet/sun and sand. I don't visit to learn about other cultures (moving 13 times in 16 years definitely cured me of that). Sorry if that's shallow but by the tmie I manage to get my big white butt out of the office, things are in really rough shape rest-and-relaxation-wise. But you can't help but notice what's around you, or in this case, what wasn't.

There's an artistic spirit and a 'keep trying-ness' too about these folks despite the conditions. Frankly there are places closer to home that could use more of that attitude.

Bridg

Fly Me To The Moon

Here are some conversations that the airline passengers don't hear.The following are accounts of actual exchanges between airline pilots and control towers around the world.
=============================================
Tower: "Delta 351, you have traffic at 10 o'clock, 6 miles!"
Delta 351: "Give us another hint! We have digital watches!"
=============================================
"TWA 2341, for noise abatement turn right 45 Degrees.""Centre, we are at 35,000 feet. How much noise can we make up here?
""Sir, have you ever heard the noise a 747 makes when it hits a 727?"
==============================================
From an unknown aircraft waiting in a very long takeoff queue: "I'm f...ing bored
!"Ground Traffic Control: "Last aircraft transmitting, identify yourself immediately!"
Unknown aircraft: "I said I was f... ing bored, not f... ing stupid!"
==============================================
O'Hare Approach Control to a 747: "United 329 heavy, your traffic is a Fokker, one o'clock, three miles, Eastbound."
United 239: "Approach, I've always wanted to say this... I've got the little Fokker in sight."
==============================================
A student became lost during a solo cross-country flight. While attempting to locate the aircraft on radar, ATC asked, "What was your last known position?"
Student: "When I was number one for takeoff."
==============================================

P(r)aying With The Queen Of Hearts

Thanks, Tshsmom for this one!

Did you know that prayers have genders? Read on....

Female and Male Prayers

FEMALE PRAYER>>>>>>
Before I lay me down to sleep,
>>>I pray for a man, who's not a creep,
>>>One who's handsome, smart and strong
>>>One who loves to listen long,
>>>One who thinks before he speaks,
>>>One who'll call, not wait for weeks.
>>>I pray he's gainfully employed,
>>>When I spend his cash, won't be annoyed.
>>>Pulls out my chair and opens my door,
>>>Massages my back and begs to do more.
>>>Oh! Send me a man who'll make love to my mind, Knows what to answer to
>>>"How big is my behind?"
>>>I pray that this man will love me to no end,
>>>And always be my very best friend.
>>>Amen.

MALE PRAYER
>>>I pray for a deaf-mute nymphomaniac with big boobs who owns a liquor
>>>store and a trout boat. This doesn't rhyme and I don't give a crap.
>>>Amen

This Land Is My Land, This Land (Unfortunately) Is Your Land

Thanks for these, Bob!

THEY VOTE TOO

While looking at a house, my brother asked the real estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning. She asked, "Does the sun rise in the north?" When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, (and has for some time), she shook her head and said, "Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff." . . . She votes!
#########################################################

I used to work in technical support for a 24/7 call center. One day I got a call from an individual who asked what hours the call center was open. I told him, "The number you dialed is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week." He responded, "Is that Eastern or Pacific time?" Wanting to end the call quickly, I said, "Uh, Pacific."

. . . . . . He also votes!
#########################################################

So my colleague and I were eating our lunch in our cafeteria, when we overheard one of the admin. assistants talking about the sunburn she got on her weekend drive to the shore. She drove down in a convertible, but "didn't think she'd get sunburned because the car was moving."

. . . . She also votes!
##########################################################

My sister has a lifesaving tool in her car. It's designed to cut through a seatbelt if she gets trapped. She keeps it in the trunk.

. . My sister also votes! ##########################################################

My friends and I were on a beer run and noticed that the cases were discounted 10%. Since it was a big party, we bought 2 cases. The cashier multiplied 2 times 10% and gave us a 20% discount.

. . . . He also votes!
##########################################################

I was hanging out with a friend when we saw a woman with a nose ring attached to an earring by a chain. My friend said, "Wouldn't the chain rip out every time she turned her head?" I explained that a person's nose and ear remain the same distance apart no matter which way the head is turned.

. . . . My friend also votes! ##########################################################

I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area . So I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because she was a trained professional and I was in good hands. "Now," she asked me, "has your plane arrived yet?"

. . . . She also votes
##########################################################

Hooked On A Feeling

Hooked On A Feeling
B.J. Thomas
courtesy of: http://www.lyricscrawler.com/song/34328.html

I can't stop this feelin'
deep inside of me
Girl, you just don't realize
what you do to me
When ya hold me
in your arms so tight
You let me know
everything's all right
I-I-I,
I'm hooked on a feelin'
I'm high on believin'
that you're in love with me
Lips are sweet as candy,
the taste stays on my mind
Girl, you keep me thirsty for
another cup of wine
I got it bad for you, girl
but I don't need a cure
I'll just stay addicted
and hope I can endure
All the good love
when we're all alone
Keep it up, girl,
yeah ya turn me on
I-I-I,
I'm hooked on a feelin'
High on believin'
that you're in love with me
All the good love
when we're all alone
Keep it up, girl,
yeah ya turn me on
I-I-I,
I'm hooked on a feelin'
I'm high on believin'
that you're in love with me

Shades of the sixties! World hope you had the type of day that I did!

The space heaters: the one downstairs worked GREAT. The one upstairs didn't (returned it) but wasn't even needed because the first one was so good. The repair guy said that they'd be over when I get home from work 6:00 on Monday.

So because he's my pal's nephew and my basement looked like the cave of the undead, spent hours cleaning it up tonight. That means all the junk spread over the workbench had to go where it belonged (threw away two appliances that no longer work), threw out mousetraps (they never worked anyway--just amused the mice), vacuumed away (most of) the cobwebs and even dusted off the furnace.

I haven't vacuumed upstairs in months! Oh well. Did finally figure out how to put the dirt holder back into the Hoover or Eureka or whatever make it is (bright blue and yellow). Didn't do laundry because I didn't want it hanging all over tomorrow when the guys are over.

Reorganized three of the cabinets in the bookcase and THAT took some doing. For years had just been throwing VHS tapes and DVDs into them, and they were already too crammed with books. So off the books went to the basement, and now I can actually FIND tapes and discs. Am a member of several healthy cooking clubs and have been printing off recipes for a long time. Spent about an hour changing the 1-2 inch high pile into parts of a recipe book (am using one of those magnetic page for pics dealies). So bit by bit the place is taking shape. Also brought in the solar lights from the garden. And the status of St. Francis of Assisi (my bud).

Don't know where the energy is coming from but hey will take it! Also changed the linen, polished the furniture...and cleaned out some kitchen cabinets. Finally found a non-miniscule purse and changed things over (I HATE small purses! They look cute but are totally useless).

The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe is very happy with the space heater. She also spent time in the sun relaxing (lucky thing) and her fur was very warm. It got to 73 degrees inside so I turned the whole thing off. Hope it'll be OK tomorrow.

Did you love the extra hour of sleep last night, world? I sure did. Now have to re-figure out how to change the car etc. clocks....but that's a little thing.

Didn't see Mom for dinner tonight (we went shopping yesterday). Was too exhausted today after doing the basement. Could not believe that I went to all that trouble, but he's so nice (and a relative of a bud) kind of felt compelled to.

Oh yah--bought paintings in Cuba when Doris and I went there a few years ago. Finally took them to get framed for the new office. Not cheap, but it beats paying for something in a store.

Well am wearing out fast. Off to check out a few of your blogs, then off to bed.

Nighty night, world.


Bridg

Who Are You?

Thanks Jennifer and Zel for this one. I'm SpongeBob

WHICH CARTOON CHARACTER ARE YOU?
Everyone has a personality of a cartoon character. Have
you ever asked yourself what cartoon character do you most resemble?
A group of investigators got together and analyzed the
personalities of well known and modern cartoon characters.
The information that was gathered was made into this
test:

Answer all the questions with what describes you best,
add up all your points (which are next to the answer that
you choose) at the end and look for your results.
Do not cheat by looking at the end of the e-mail before
you are done.

Then forward this to all your friends (including the
person who sent it to you) and change the subject
of this message to what character is you.

1. Which one of the following describes the perfect
date?
a) Candlelight dinner (4 pts.)
b) Fun/Theme Park (2 pts.)
c) Painting in the park (5 pts.)
d) Rock concert (1 pt.)
e) Going to the movies (3 pts.)
2. What is your favourite type of music?
a) Rock and Roll (2 pts.)
b) Alternative (1 pt.)
c) Soft Rock (4 pts.)
d) Country (5 pts.)
e) Pop (3 pts.)
3. What type of movies do you prefer?
.a) Comedy (2 pts.)
.b) Horror (1 pt.)
.c) Musical (3 pts.)
.d) Romance (4 pts.)
.e) Documentary (5 pts.)
4. Which one of these occupations would you choose if
you only could choose one of these?
.a) Waiter (4 pts.)
.b) Professional Sports Player (5 pts.)
.c) Teacher (3 pts.)
.d) Police (2 pts.)
.e) Cashier (1 pt)
5. What do you do with your spare time?
.a) Exercise (5 pts.)
.b) Read (4 pts.)
.c) Watch television (2 pts.)
.d) Listen to music (1 pt.)
6. Which one of the following colours do you like
best?
.a) Yellow (1 pt.)
.b) White (5 pts.)
.c) Sky Blue (3 pts.)
.d) Dark Blue (2 pts.)
.e) Red (4 pts.)
7. What do you prefer to eat right now?
.a) Snow (3 pts.)
.b) Pizza (2 pts.)
.c) Sushi (1 pt.)
.d) Pasta (4 pts.)
.e) Salad (5 pts.)
8. What is your favourite holiday?
.a) Halloween (1 pt.)
.b) Christmas (3 pts.)
.c) New Year (2 pts.)
.d) Valentine's Day (4 pts.)
.e) Thanksgiving (5 pts.)
9. If you could go to one of these places which one
would it be?
.a) Paris (4 pts)
.b) Spain (5 pts.)
.c) Las Vegas (1 pt.)
.d) Hawaii (4 pts.)
.e) Hollywood (3 pts)
10. With which of the following would you prefer to
spend time with?
.a) Someone Smart (5 pts.)
.b) Someone attractive (2 pts.)
.c) Someone who likes to Party (1 pt.)
.d) Someone who always has fun (3 pts.)
.e) Someone very sentimental (4 pts.)
Now add up your points and find out the answer you
have been waiting for.
Put your character in the subject line and forward
to your friends and back to the person that sent this to you.
Very interesting to see "who" your friends are!

Now add up your points and find out the answer you
have been waiting for.
Put your character in the subject line and forward
to your friends and back to the person that sent this to you.
Very interesting to see "who" your friends are!


(10-16 points) You are Garfield: You are very
comfortable, easy going, and you definitely know how to have fun
but sometimes you take it to an extreme. You always know what
you are doing and you are always in control of your life.
Others may not see things as you do, but that doesn't mean
that you always have to do what is right. Try to remember
your happy spirit may hurt you or others.


(17-23 points) You are Snoopy: You are fun you are very
cool and popular. You always know what's in and you never are
out of style. You are good at knowing how to satisfy everyone
else. You have probably disappeared for a few days more than
once but you always come home with the family values that you
learned. Being married and having children are important to you,
but only after you have had your share of fun times.

(24-28 points) You are Elmo: You have lots of friends and
you are also popular, always willing to give advice and help out
a person in need. You are very optimistic and you always see the
bright side of things. Some good advice: try not to be too much
of a dreamer, if not you will have many conflicts with life.


29-35 points) You are Sponge Bob Square Pants: You are the classic
person that everyone loves. You are the best friend that anyone
could ever have and never want to lose. You never cause harm to
anyone and they would never not understand your feelings. Life is a
journey,it's funny and calm for the most part. Stay away from traitors
and jealous people, then you will be stress free.

(36-43 points) You are Charlie Brown: You are tender, you fall
in love quickly but you are also very serious about all relationships.
You are a family person. You call your mom every Sunday. You have
many friends and may occasionally forget a few Birthdays. Don't
let your passion confuse you with reality.

44-50 points) You are Dexter: You are smart and definitely a
thinker. Every situation is fronted with a plan. You have a
brilliant mind. You demonstrate very strong family principles.
Maintain a stable routine but never ignore a bad situation when
it comes.

Now don't spoil it! Have some Fun!! Change the subject of
the email to what character this says you are and send it on!
Don't forget to send it back to the one who sent it
to you. Have a Great Day!

Halloween Approacheth

OK I'm an immature 53 year old flower child but just love this link below---have been howling about it for years.....

http://minibytes.mondominishows.com/poo/affiliates/play.asp?Affil=iwon&W

Then if you liked that one try the next one!!

http://members.home.nl/saen/Special/zoeken.html

Love Letters (in the sand?)

brilliant and timely


I SHALL SEEK AND FIND YOU..
I SHALL TAKE YOU TO BED AND HAVE MY WAY WITH YOU..
I WILL MAKE YOU ACHE, SHAKE AND SWEAT UNTIL YOU MOAN AND GROAN.
I WILL MAKE YOU BEG FOR MERCY...BEG FOR ME TO STOP.

I WILL EXHAUST YOU TO THE POINT THAT YOU WILL BE RELIEVED WHEN I'M FINISHED WITH YOU.

YOU WILL BE WEAK FOR DAYS.

ALL MY LOVE.



THE FLU

Now get your mind out of the gutter and get your flu shot!

Don't Fear The Reaper

Friend from California BOB writes:

IT'S CREEPY to CONSIDER YOUR OWN MORTALITY,

When will you die? How? Where? It depends on the way you've lived and loved on this mortal plane.


http://www.liquidgeneration.com/sabotage/death_sabotage.asp

I tried it and it's pretty cool/funny.....Bridg

I've Got You Under My Skin

The Frankie Valli/Four Seasons version!

Hi world, I am FREEZING up here!

The furnace died today. Well actually a valve did but since the furnace is 19 years old, it's time for it to go.

And the dimensions of this planet, being rather small, were really brought home to me by the furnace repair guy tonight.

First, must confess that I am not all that careful with money. Downright reckless, and it bites me in the rear every once in a while. But for all that, I was paying two different companies to keep tabs on/maintain the a/c and the furnace.

So I found that the heat wasn't on tonight. It's chilly here too (about 2 celcius). Called company 1. Got a HUGE song and dance about how many calls the repair guy had to make, was I covered under these plans (I was), well it'll cost $90 plus anyway, he can't get here before 10...blah blah blah this went on non-stop for a while. I said that I would call tomorrow, thanked him and hung up. Steamed. Not at the furnace, at this guy for adding to the problem that I already had. Called company 2. Spoke with a DELIGHTFUL guy who was glad that I was nearby, he'd be here in under an hour. And bless his heart, he was too!

I got him a chair to sit in (he didn't ask) while he was working on the furnace, and I stayed down there to keep him company and chat (he sort of suggested it). Found out that his aunt was a old pal of mine, who had worked in the same place that I just left (the one that had the incredibly poor taste of hiring Mr. B). She'd left years before and joined a 'sister' of the group I'm now with. Not only that, but I'd MET this guy 8 years ago at her house at her son's birthday party!! He remembered me/my voice. Holy crap! I have a horrible memory for stuff like that, but what are the odds of THAT happening??? He only works 'emergency' once a month and there are 8 repair technicians. Holy crap again.

So anyway we had a dee lightful chat, and he said that he wouldn't bother putting money into this furnace (I had been told that last year about it too by someone else). Said that furnaces usually last 10-15 years, and that this one didn't owe me anything. I asked about replacing it. He does this on the side. The price is totally unreal (very low). I was astonished and agreed on condition that it doesn't get him into trouble. So, new furnace on Monday/Tuesday and a renewed pal-ship.

Do you BELIEVE that??? How totally cool. What a small planet it is to be sure!

Mom coming down with a cold. I brought her meds last night and she's a lot better. Feel like I"m getting one but that's because there's no heat lol. Good thing I'm usually a very warm person and this is a very warm house (middle townhouse). There's a plug-in oil heater in the garage but don't think I'll need it.

Work going very well ('outstanding' according to boss YAY what a great guy!!!). One of my more important projects is getting much less attention than it deserves, because I"m doing 2.5 jobs. Will have to fix that. But do love the boss and co-workers. A lot. And they like me too, it's great (got good feedback from and about someone else today). Have been swamped with work, but it's because the poor lady I'm working for hasn't had someone to lean on to do this kind of stuff. It takes a fair bit of experience with negotiation to give people comfort that you know what you're talking about, and that's hard to do if you're a young kid (I mean the smartest one just turned 24 yesterday) just starting out. Some can carry this out, some can't. The one who's supposed to do this job not only is a young kid but lacks initiative. No biggie (so far).

How long has it been? 6 weeks? Wow. Doesn't feel like it.

Am loving it. Am happier than I"ve been in many years. And learning--sheesh the learning!!

But enough about that, shiver shiver (I'm blogging in PJs in the cat/computer room. It's chilly back here).

So world, hope that you are well? Having fun? Staying warm?

Enjoy this weekend, it's when we get to change the clocks back YAHOO!!!

Snoozetime!!

Cheers, Bridg (singing "it's a small world after all"....)

Monster Mash

Zomb, you'll love this one!

> >> > Subject: FW: do this while sober

> >> >> >> >> >> > How COOL is this!!!>

>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >

Click on the Coors Light link> >> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >


http://www.coorslight.com/iceswipe/> >> >> >> >

True Colors

True Colors
written by Cyndi Lauper (prefer Phil Collins' version tho)
courtesy of: http://www.lyricsfreak.com/p/phil-collins/108047.html

You with the sad eyes
Don’t be discouraged
Oh I realize
It’s hard to take courage
In a world full of people
You can lose sight of it all
And the darkness, inside you
Can make you feel so small
But I see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful,
Like a rainbow
Show me a smile then,
Don’t be unhappy, can’t remember
When I last saw you laughing
If this world makes you crazy
And you’ve taken all you can bear
You call me up
Because you know I’ll be there
And I’ll see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful,
Like a rainbow
[intru part]
So sad eyes
Discouraged now
Realize
When this world makes you crazy
And you’ve taken all you can bear
You call me up
Because you know I’ll be there
And I’ll see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors, true colors
Cos there’s a shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors, true colors
True colors are beautiful,
Beautiful, like a rainbow

Isn't that a beautiful song, world?

And what a season to read them in too (unless you're in the stormy part of the world, and if so I am so very sorry for you all).

Today was the best day I've had at work for a very long time. Years. Got lots done, but better than that knew what I was doing! And it got done!!! Also did some teaching and passed some really good info on to the guys.

I am worried about Lou. We were talking about what I'm going to do to get more healthy. Said that fat is now OUT (well as much as you're supposed to do that) and that I'm not going to drink like we have been (2 drinks a night every weeknight was adding up) because (a) of the calories and (b) cause I eat more when I've had a drink (like smoking). Anyway she said she'd rather give up eating than drinking and that it's easier. She kind of insisted.

Man I hope she was kidding. Really.

Last thing either of us needs is a problem in THAT area! Bad enough being over 50 over weight and new in a job. Alcohol just isn't in the picture (at least for me). Nah, she must have been kidding.

So was good all day yesterday and today with eating and taking vitamins. Did I mention yesterday that there are 'eye' vitamins? Yep. Started on that too.

Arthritis and heart stuff are bad enough but I'm drawing the line at the eyes. THAT's serious stuff.

Mom and Sis are doing just fine. Sis is up to something. Said that Mom isn't hard of hearing--that she overheard something Sis said that was a secret and Sis asked her to keep it to herself until whatever it is is done. And that Mom's probably worrying or thinking about what Sis said to her (i.e. not listening to me). Fine! Glad her hearing's OK.

Secrets suck. Am not worried about whatever it is, for Pete's sake the kid is 45 years old! She knows what she's doing. I'm too lazy to keep or manufacture secrets. Takes too much energy to keep things like that bottled up, and does anyone else really care anyway? It's much easier being open, at least for me.

What do you folks think about that?

Am so happy and content it's disgusting.

Heh heh heh.

Hope you're equally or more happy, world.

Stay warm!!

Bridg (and The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe)

What's Goin' On

Marvin Gaye
What's Going On
courtesy of: http://www.codehot.co.uk/lyrics/mnop/marvingaye/whatsgoingon.htm

Mother, mother, there's too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother, there's far too many of you dying
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today, hey
Father, father, we don't need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer, for only love can conquer hate
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today, oh
Picket lines - sister - and picket signs - sister
Don't punish me - sister - with brutality - sister
Talk to me - sister - so you can see - sister
Oh, what's goin' on - what's goin' on, what's goin' on - what's goin' on
Heah, what's goin' on - what's goin' on, oh, what's goin' on - what's goin' on
Ah ah - ay-ay-ay-ay-ay - right on - right on - ay-ay-ay-ay-ay
Mother, mother, everybody thinks we're wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply 'cause our hair is long
Oh, you know we've got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today, oh oh oh
Picket lines - brother - and picket signs - brother
Don't punish me - brother - with brutality - brother
Come on, talk to me - brother - so you can see - brother
Now what's goin' on - what's goin' on, yeah, what's goin' on - what's goin' on
Tell me what's goin' on - what's goin' on,
I'll tell you now what's goin' on - what's goin' on
Ooooh - right on - right on - ay-ay-ay-ay-ay

Don't you just love the late Marvin Gaye, folks? I sure do. Well, his soul stuff. Couldn't stand that Tammy Terrel stuff. Too cute. But Marvin soul.....mmm

Very cold here, they're using the S word (snow)..and it sure feels and looks like it.

Mom doing very well (I can't wait to retire. All I want to do is sleep, read and watch TV. What's wrong with becoming one with the couch?). Sis still has a cold (over a week so far). M is in Toronto at a huge conference, networking. I'm staying here in the big O (ha ha ha). Have been to 200000 conferences too many. I'm sorry that the kids at work didn't go tho. Would have been great for them. But on the other hand, things are hopping chez the office. It's a workaholics dream. I just LOVE it!!!

Have finally reached the point where I think I am beginning to understand what's going on. Maybe not the entire history, but enough to find my way through it.

The office is still a palace. Boss (he is such a sweetie, really) dropped by to check the place out. Poor man! He just wanted to zone out and I had all this work stuff on the go (to tell him about). He looked vaguely startled when I started talking so I relaxed. Poor man!!

He agrees, place needs more art, so off I go on Saturday.

Hey finally got my eyes checked tonight after schwarmas with Lou. Now this might sound like a time-wasting stupid thing but it sooo wasn't! Was worried because Mom has glaucoma that they caught very early. My grandfather had it (Dad's side). Little bro was diagnosed a year or so ago with macular degeneration. OK Now I'm getting antsy. So went in to see an optomitrist and BOY am I glad I did. Had been at least 4-5 years since last appointment (with a different, never available doc on the other side of town whose staff asked me to re-phone them three different times--they kept losing files. )

Result: No macular degeneration. Pressure on the optic nerve (one of the tests for glaucoma) is on the 'high high high side of normal' so they're bringing me in every six months and doing a state of the art look at (my) peripheral vision (second sign of glaucoma). They can't treat it until you come down with it. And my eyesight got better. Seriously better. So new glasses time.

But there's other stuff to look out for and they're also risk factors for macular degeneration. You definitely do NOT want that (MD). Eventually you lose vision in the middle part of your field of vision. So you have peripheral, not central. It can fit the definition of 'legally blind'. Risk factors for MD? Wait till you see this:

*Being near or getting over 50 years old
*Having it in your family somewhere
*Being female
*Being overweight/obese
*Eating a high fat diet
*Overexposure of eyes to sunlight
*Diet insufficient in dark green veggies and antioxidants
*Smoking
*High cholesterol
*High blood pressure
*Far sightedness

Anyone else finding this scary? There are no symptoms in the early stages, no pain. I'm guilty of a LOT of those sins up there...

There are treatments, no cures. Not sure that there are MD cures but so many of the risk factors are things we can do something about. There is a vitamin complex sold for eye health called Vita-lux. They just happened to be on sale tonight. Bought some for me and for Mom.

Thank heavens my macula are 'beautiful' to quote this doctor. The maybe glaucoma well I could have seen that coming from both sides of the family.

If you're interested, and I think you should be (please) go see an optometrist at least once a year. Here are some good websites but they can't do the measurements that you'll need:
http://www.ahaf.org/macular/about/marisk.htm
http://www.eyemdlink.com/Condition.asp?ConditionID=55
http://www.agingeye.net/maculardegen/maculardegeninformation.php

Glaucoma used to be called the 'sneak thief of adult sight' due to its lack of symptoms and the body's ability to compensate for changes in the eye. Ditto re the need to actually go in and get measured.

From the site http://www.eyemdlink.com/Condition.asp?ConditionID=2, here are risk factors for glaucoma:
*Elevated intraocular (eye) pressure,
*Family history of glaucoma,
*Advanced age,
*Being of African-American descent,
*Cardiovascular disease (e.g., history of heart attack or stroke),
*Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes),
*Myopia (nearsightedness),
*High blood pressure, and
*Migraine headache

Here are some glaucoma sites
http://www.agingeye.net/glaucoma/glaucomainformation.php
http://www.ahaf.org/glaucoma/about/glrisk_body.htm
http://www.cvr.org.au/pages/common-eye-diseases/glaucoma-riskfactors.htm

I hope you'll go check them out. If this helps even one person, it'll be worth it. I'm taking my flipping diet a lot more seriously now.

Man you sure get it in the neck for being fat, huh? Seems like every body part just revolts (there's a joke there but it's way too easy to act on).

Night world. Sorry for preaching but this is really important...

Last Night (I Didn't Get To Sleep At All)

Wow world, when's the last time you heard from the 5th Dimension? The singing group, I mean?

And I didn't (sleep) much. Remember seeing 3:00 a.m. hit and panicking. That's pretty much it. Fell asleep on the couch a few minutes ago (it's 8:50 now) and--get this--snored myself awake. Remember thinking (while asleep) "what the HELL is that racket??" and waking up to find it was ME.

Charming!!!

Decided to make soup tonight so it's simmering (ministrone). Does make the house smell great. Surprised to have that kind of energy after work but what the hey. Do any of you do stuff requiring a lot of energy when you get home? Most of my pals don't except a few guys who play hockey (M) and soccer (S). Those two are awesome, don't know how they do it.

Did you have a good Monday (is there such a thing?), world?

I think I did.

Yesterday (Sunday) after hanging up the pics in the new office, had a fleeting thought that I'd better do good work, cause this office is a palace. Today, before I got my coat off, they were installing a new computer. Turns out the IT guy told our admin assistant to go fly a kite when she complained about the piece of junk (it wouldn't do wordperfect, for example) that they gave me. I was happy with anything that worked. Anyway, mentioned it to the boss, who wrote a very nice note. Honest it was respectful and gentle. BAM new computer and two guys checked in later to make sure that it was OK! Holy Crap, Batman!!! They also fixed my furniture too asap (put the desk top on the desk. It's one of those overhead thingies). I am in awe. He also called a meeting together to get past a bureaucratic block in something that I'm doing. The meeting was over in less than half an hour.

Wow. So this is what support is like.

Holy catfish.

I am gonna work my butt off (heh heh heh wish I could lol) for this guy!!

Gotta go, soup's boiling. Hope all is well with you world!

Hugs, Bridg (still in awe)

The Runner

The Runner
Ian Thomas
Courtesy of: http://www.lyricsdownload.com/ian-thomas-the-runner-lyrics.html

Through the night, through the dawn
Behind you, another runner is born
Don't look back, you've been there
Feel the mist as your breath hits the air
And it's underneath the moonlight
Passing some
Still your heart beats in the moonlight
Like a drum
And you will run your time
A shooting star across the sky
And you will surely cross the line
To pass on the flame
Sun come up, sun go down
Hear the feet, see the sweat on the ground
Watch your step, keep your cool
Though you can't see what's in front of you
And it's underneath the moonlight
Passing some
Still your heart beats in the moonlight
Like a drum
And you will run your time
A shooting star across the sky
And you will surely cross the line
To pass on the flame
Cause you're a runner in a race
Taking someone's place who's run
You're a runner in a race
And the only way it's won
Is to pass on the flame
And you will run your time
A shooting star across the sky
And you will surely cross the line
To pass on the flame
(Pass on the flame)
To pass on the flame
(Pass on the flame)

This one is for Zombieslayer.

Hope your day was good, world? Still cool here. Rained alllll day. Took me over 3 hours yesterday to go through all the emails (jokes) and sorry if I sent out duplicates. Hard to tell using 'g' mail.

Today I spent looking for an art store that was open to get stuff to put up on the new walls. Walked all over hell's half acre, and found one or two open, only one of which was not a gazillion-dollar store. Not a dump either, found some stuff that was OK and it just happened to be on sale (bonus)! Took in some of the stuff from the old office and lugged it all into the new one. Since the new place doesn't have cleaners, polished the furniture (no I am not kidding). Was going to take in the TY cat that M gave me for my birthday last year and the painting of a parrot that Issy did, but decided that I"d like to see them at home, since they are 'home'/close to my heart things.

Ran into the kinda witchy person while I was art-shopping. She was very nice. That's what manipulative folks do. It makes my skin go funny, but since I"m basically nice, it was enjoyable. Turns out her husband is a millionaire (she didn't tell me that, everyone else did). Boy in that position I'd be living on a beach somewhere. Oh well, to each his/her own.

Didn't get a heck of a lot else done--the rain is wreaking havoc on the old bod, even loaded up with naproxen.

Hope S is OK. G-man was driving him nuts lately. Miss the old crowd like crazy but don't miss the stupid stuff. Unfortunately ALL the stupid stuff involved management, and that's pretty damn hard to ignore. Better off here!! Am feeling much better (ha! she laughs, except my damn legs!) in the new place. Haven't had to use nitroglycerine even once. Pretty cool.

Oh yah one more notable thing: SNOW!! It was mixed with the rain this morning. Dirty pool, you weather guys. It isn't even NOVEMBER!! Snow should be illegal before Christmas Eve (just a thought)....Raven have you had snow in Colorado? Bet you have.

Doris must have met Peggy by now in Newfoundland. Hope they're having a good time (and no snow)!

Hope YOU all are having a good time, and are bundled up safe and warm. Have lovely dreams...and an even better week ahead.

MWAH!

Bridg

Oldie(s) But Goody

Three plastic surgeons were playing golf together and one of them said, "I'm the best plastic surgeon in Texas. A concert pianist lost 7 fingers in an accident, I re-attached them. . . 8 months later he performed in concert with the New Philharmonic."

One of the others said, "That's nothing. A young man lost both arms and legs in an accident, I re-attached them, and 2 years later he won a gold medal in 5 field events in the Olympics."

The third surgeon said, "You guys are amateurs. Several years ago a cowboy who was high on cocaine and alcohol rode a horse head-on into a train traveling 80 miles an hour. All I had left to work with was the horse's ass and a cowboy hat. Now he's President of the United States."

I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues

I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
Courtesy of:http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/I-Guess-That's-Why-They-Call-It-The-Blues-lyrics-Elton-John/49D356F4C04AE3174825687600291AF1
Music by Elton John and Davey Johnstone
Lyrics by Bernie Taupin

Don't wish it away
Don't look at it like it's forever
Between you and me
I could honestly say
That things can only get better
And while I'm away
Dust out the demons inside
And it won't be long
before you and me run
To the place in our hearts where we hide
And I guess that's why they call it the blues
Time on my hands could be time spent with you
Laughing like children, living like lovers
Rolling like thunder, under the covers
And I guess that's why they call it the blues

Just stare into space
Picture my face in your hands
Live for each second without hesitation
And never forget I'm your man
Wait on me girl
Cry in the night if it helps
But more than ever
I simply love you
More than I love life itself
And I guess that's why they call it the blues
Time on my hands could be time spent with you
Laughing like children, living like lovers
Rolling like thunder, under the covers
And I guess that's why they call it the blues

Wait on me girl
Cry in the night if it helps
But more than ever
I simply love you
More than I love life itself

And I guess that's why they call it the blues
Time on my hands could be time spent with you
Laughing like children, living like lovers
Rolling like thunder, under the covers
And I guess that's why they call it the blues
(laughing like children, living like lovers)
And I guess that's why they call it the blues
(laughing like children, living like lovers)
And I guess that's why they call it the blues
And I guess that's why they call it the blues

Not much going on here, world. Have a touch of writers' block, and it's one of those cool October nights when the world's really truly fast asleep, hushed in its own dreams of summers past and days to come. Even the nightbirds are silent. It's a blues night, not in terms of rain, fog, or feeling down. Just hush and quiet...so thick it wraps around you like a child's blanket.

Rather than disturb their slumbers...and having run bone dry in the brain....tonight I'll leave you with the words (above) that I wish I could share with M.

Enjoy!

love, Bridg

Leavin' On A Jet Plane

Thanks Peter!!

> Alaska Air Flight 438 > >
Thanks to a retired Delta Captain for sending this "paraphrase" of a > memorable safety PA from Alaska Air Flight Attendants. > > In his own words....

> "I was flying to San Francisco from Seattle this week end, and the flight > attendant reading the flight safety information had the whole plane > looking > at each other like "what the heck?"
(Getting Seattle people to look at > each > other is an accomplishment in itself.)

> > So once we got airborne, I took out my laptop and typed up what she said, > so I wouldn't forget. I've left out a few parts, I'm sure, but this is > most > of it." > >

Before takeoff...... > > Hello, and welcome to Alaska Flight 438 to San Francisco. If you're going > to > San Francisco, you're in the right place. If > you're not going to San Francisco, you're about to have a really long > evening. > >

We'd like to tell you now about some important safety features of this > aircraft. The most important safety feature we have aboard this plane > is.....The Flight Attendants. Please look at one now.

> > There are 5 exits aboard this plane: 2 at the front, 2 over the wings, and > one out the plane's rear end. > > If you're seated in one of the exit rows, please do not store your bags by > your feet. That would be a really bad idea. > >

Please take a moment and look around and find the nearest exit. Count the > rows of seats between you and the exit. In the event that the need arises > to > find one, trust me, you'll be glad you did. We have pretty blinking lights > on the floor that will blink in the direction of the exits. White ones > along > the normal rows and pretty red ones at the exit rows.

> > In the event of a loss of cabin pressure these baggy things will drop down > over your head. You stick it over your nose and mouth like the flight > attendant is doing now. The bag won't inflate, but there's oxygen there, I > promise.

> > If you are sitting next to a small child, or someone who is acting like a > small child, please do us all a favor and put on your mask first. If you > are traveling with two or more children, please take a moment now to > decide > which one is your favorite. Help your favorite first, and then work your > way > down.

> > In the seat pocket in front of you is a pamphlet about the safety features > of this plane. I usually use it as a fan when I'm having my own personal > summer. It makes a very good fan. It also has pretty pictures. Please take > it out and play with it now.

> > Please take a moment now to make sure your seat belts are fastened low and > tight about your waist. To fasten the belt, > insert the metal tab into the buckle. To release, it's a pulley thing -- > not > a pushy thing like your car because you're in an airplane. HELLO !! >

> There is no smoking in the cabin on this flight. There is also no smoking > in > the lavatories. If we see smoke coming from the lavatories, we will > assume > you are on fire and we will put you out. This is a free service we > provide.

> > There are two smoking sections on this flight, one outside each wing exit.

> > We do have a movie in the smoking sections tonight ... hold on, let me > check what it is ... Oh, here it is; the movie tonight is "Gone with the > Wind."

> > In a moment we will be turning off the cabin lights, and it's going to get > really dark, really fast. If you're afraid of the dark, now would be a > good > time to reach up and press the yellow button. The yellow button turns on > your reading light. Please don't press the orange button unless you > absolutely have to. The orange button is your seat ejection button.

> > We're glad to have you with us on board this flight. Thank you for > choosing > Alaska Air, and giving us your business and your money. If there's > anything > we can do to make you more comfortable, please don't hesitate to ask. > > If you all weren't strapped down, you would have given me a standing > ovation, wouldn't you?

> > After landing.......

> > Welcome to the San Francisco International Airport.

> > Sorry about the bumpy landing. It's not the captain's fault. It's not > the > co-pilot's fault. It's the Asphalt.

> > Please remain seated until the plane is parked at the gate. At no time in > history has a passenger beaten a plane to the gate. So please don't even > try.

> > Please be careful opening the overhead bins because...."shift happens."

City of New Orleans

The City of New Orleans courtesy of http://www.arlo.net/lyrics/new-orleans.shtml
by Steve Goodman

Riding on the City of New Orleans,
Illinois Central Monday morning rail
Fifteen cars and fifteen restless riders,
Three conductors
and twenty-five sacks of mail.
All along the southbound odyssey
The train pulls out at Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms and fields.
Passin' trains that have no names,
Freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of the rusted automobiles.

CHORUS:Good morning America how are you?
Don't you know me
I'm your native son,
I'm the train they call The City of New Orleans,
I'll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.

Dealin' card games with the old men in the club car.
Penny a point ain't no one keepin' score.
Pass the paper bag that holds the bottle
Feel the wheels rumblin' 'neath the floor.
And the sons of pullman porters
And the sons of engineers
Ride their father's magic carpets made of steel.
Mothers with their babes asleep,
Are rockin' to the gentle beat
And the rhythm of the rails is all they feel

.CHORUS

Nighttime on The City of New Orleans,
Changing cars in Memphis, Tennessee.
Half way home, we'll be there by morning
Through the Mississippi darkness
Rolling down to the sea.
And all the towns and people seem
To fade into a bad dream
And the steel rails still ain't heard the news.
The conductor sings his song again,
The passengers will please refrain
This train's got the disappearing railroad blues.

Good night, America, how are you?
Don't you know me I'm your native son,
I'm the train they call The City of New Orleans,
I'll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.

WC hope you like this one because it is for you!

HAPPY FRIDAY WORLD! Did any of you slap a coworker or boss? Just checking.....

It was another perfect fall day here. Cool, crisp, sunny and clear. The kind of day to goof off but of course didn't.

The person (boss lady) I'm replacing is off for a few more weeks, possibly five. OK I"m still acting. Sigh. Well no one's died or complained yet so okay. The new office is like a palace. Can't believe how nice it is and it's even cool literally (this place is like an oven). Had a phone message from friend of friends Pauly, and a phone call from M. Lou and I went to lunch (well for 20 minutes) and drinks/dinner afterward. Can life get better? I doubt it. Overheard the boss mention my name on the phone to someone, saying that it's a great opportunity. I know he likes me (this man changes his mind a lot, but I know the feedback from him from all sources is very good) but it was disconcerting to hear someone mention my name. Oh well no biggie.

They caught Ardeth Wood's killer two years after the murder. Not Jennifer Teague's yet. Bums. Saw Wood's parents interviewed this morning--they are still in shock. Poor people.

Well, folks, we are off into another fall weekend. Hope that you are all fine, healthy, warm and dry. And that you get out to enjoy the foliage show.

Hey if you have a fireplace, now's a great time for fire. I don't have one...yet....but will experience it vicariously through you guys.

Later!!!

Bridg

The Cat Came Back

Subject: FW: 40 second test
A very difficult test

This was developed as an age test by an R&D department at Harvard University. Take your time and see if you can read each line aloud without a mistake. The average person over 40 years of age can't do it!

1. This is this cat
2. This is is cat
3. This is how cat
4. This is to cat
5. This is keep cat
6. This is an cat
7. This is old cat
8. This is fart cat
9. This is busy cat
10. This is for cat
11. This is forty cat
12. This is seconds cat

Now go back and read aloud the third word in each line from the top down and I betcha you can't resist passing it on.

Rock of Ages

Thanks Peter, trying not to take this personally....

Getting Old Is Not For Sissies!

I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor's permission to join a fitness club and start exercising... I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.
------------------------------------------
Reporters interviewing a 104 year-old woman: "And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?" the reporter asked.She simply replied, "No peer pressure."
------------------------------------------
The nice thing about being senile is you can hide your own Easter eggs.
------------------------------------------
Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked, "How old was your husband?"98," she replied. "Two years older than me.""So you're 96," the undertaker commented.She responded, "Hardly worth going home, is it?"
-------------------------------------------
An elderly woman from Brooklyn decided to prepare her will and make her final requests. She told her rabbi she had two final requests. First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Bloomingdales.
"Bloomingdales?" the rabbi exclaimed. "Why Bloomingdales?"
"Then I'll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week."
-------------------------------------------
I've sure gotten old. I've had 2 By-pass surgeries. A hip replacement, new knees, fought prostate cancer, and diabetes. I'm half blind, can't hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation; hardly feel my hands and feet anymore, can't remember if I'm 85 or 92, have lost all my friends. But.....Thank God, I still have my driver's license!
-------------------------------------------
Three old guys are out walking.First one says, "Windy, isn't it?"Second one says, "No, it's Thursday!"Third one says, "So am I. Let's go get a beer."
-------------------------------------------
A man was telling his neighbour, "I just bought a new hearing aid. It cost me four thousand dollars, but its state of the art. It's perfect.""Really," answered the neighbour. "What kind is it?"
" Twelve thirty."
-------------------------------------------
And last . . . .
Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical. A few days later the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm.A couple of days later the doctor spoke to Morris and said, "You're really doing great, aren't you?"
Morris replied, "Just doing what you said, Doc:'Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.'"The doctor said, "I didn't say that. I said, ' You've got a heart murmur. Be careful!

House At Pooh Corner

ARTIST: Kenny Loggins and Jim Messina
TITLE: House at Pooh Corner
Lyrics courtesy of: http://www.guntheranderson.com/v/data/houseatp.htm

Christopher Robin and I walked along
Under branches lit up by the moon
Posing our questions to Owl and Eeyore
As our days disappeared all too soon
But I've wandered much further today than I should
And I can't seem to find my way back to the wood, so

{Refrain}Help me if you can I've got to get
Back to the house at Pooh Corner by one
You'd be surprised, there's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky -
Chase the clouds away
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh-

Winnie the Pooh doesn't know what to do
Got a honey jar stuck on his nose
He came to me asking help and advice
And from here no one knows where he goes
So I sent him to ask of the Owl if he's there
How to loosen a jar from the nose of a bear

{Refrain}

It's hard to explain how a few precious things
Seem to follow throughout all our lives
After all's said and done I was watching my son
Sleeping there with my bear by his side
So I tucked him in,
kissed him,
and as I was gone
I swear
that old bear
whispered, "Boy,
welcome home"
Believe me if you can, I've finally come
Back to the house at Pooh Corner by one
What do you know, there's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
- Chase the clouds away-
Back to the days of Christopher Robin
Back to the ways of Christopher Robin
Back to the days of Pooh
Oo-oo-ooh,
oo-oo-ooh

THAT one is for tshsmom!

How are you tonight world?

It is freezing cold here, and I bet Justice is cold in Massachusettes too. Glad he gets to go home to Florida and Storm. Those of us in the Great White North are stuck with it lol!

Had a great day today. New Boss (man) said today that this assignment I'm on is working out very well. He said that he likes the way that I go and get info from people without waiting to be told to do it (a colleague added that I don't do it with a sledgehammer either lol. M would keel over laughing if he ever heard that). Made my day, that's for sure. Hard to know when you're new what exactly is going on and if it's going OK. This sure helped a lot.

Had a shrink appointment in the afternoon and he said to take the rest of the day off so I did. Shrink is very happy too. Don't have to go back for 2 more months (near Christmas time). I'm not boss anymore YAY as of Monday and am thrilled to bits about that let me tell you! My new office is ready and it's gorgeous. Bigger than my boss' office (boss lady) which makes me feel a bit guilty. Actually she used to have that office but moved to be closer to her group. Oops I mean our group. The group.

Went for drinks/munchies with Doris. She is turning fifty this weekend, so we are getting together as soon as she's back (she's travelling to the East Coast this weekend and has to work on her big birthday). She is one of the nicest, smartest people I know. We've been friends for at least 10 years, and worked together also for a year or so. It sounds like she's working with demented idiots at the moment, but she is so good and so quiet, she just goes around fixing the disasters unasked and unthanked. Believe me these are BIG bloopers. Makes you shake your head....Anyway the world is much better off with folks like her (and Pauly, S and Marc and Issy and M) in it. WAY better off! She would have made a great mom too but oh well, what are you gonna do? At some ages that's academic.

The meeting with the hottie went smoothly too. Got everything done in 20 minutes. The place I work in is NUTS for meetings and the turnover is insane. Maybe in a month or two I"ll be pulling my or someone else's hair out but at the moment all I want to do is fix it. Know how that feels? You see something you think you can make better and it SOOOOOOO needs a hand...hope I can.

Gotta go spoil The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe a bit now. She's feeling deserted (got in at 9:00 tonight). Later, world!

Luv, Bridg

Slap Slap Slap, Slap Slap Slap, Slap your...coworkers??

Thank you Peter, I'm glad I don't work in your building.....ROFL....

Slap Your Co-Worker Day is coming!!

Tomorrow is the official Slap Your Irritating Co-workers Holiday:

Do you have a co-worker who ALWAYS screws up stuff creating MORE work for you?
Do you have a co-worker who kisses so much booty; you can look in their mouth and see what your boss had for lunch?
Do you have a co-worker who is SOOO obnoxious, when he/she enters a room, everyone else clears it?

Well, on behalf of Ike Turner, I am so very very glad to officially announce tomorrow as SLAP YOUR IRRITATING CO-WORKER DAY!
There are the rules you must follow:

* You can only slap one person per hour - no more.
* You can slap the same person again if they irritate you again in the same day.
* You are allowed to hold someone down as other co-workers take their turns slapping the irritant.
* No weapons are allowed...other than going upside somebody's head with a stapler or a hole-puncher.
* If questioned by a supervisor [or police, if the supervisor is the irritant], you are allowed to LIE, LIE, LIE!

Now, study the rules, break out your list of folks that you want to slap the living day lights out of and get to slapping.....and have a great day!

OOps

>A couple were invited to a swanky family masked fancy dress Halloween> party.>The wife got a terrible headache and told her husband to go to the>party alone. He, being a devoted husband, protested, but she argued and>said she was going to take some aspirin and go to bed and there was noneed>for his good time to be spoiled by not going.>>

So he took his costume and away he went. The wife, after sleeping>soundly for about an hour, woke Without pain and as it was still early,> decided go to the party. As her husband didn't know what her costume was,>she thought she would have some fun by watching her husband to see how he>acted when she was not with him.>>

So she joined the party and soon spotted her husband in his costume,>cavorting around on the dance floor, dancing with every nice "chick" he>could and copping a little feel here and a little kiss there.>>His wife went up to him and being a rather seductive babe herself, he>left his new partner high and dry and devoted his time to her.>>

She let him go as far as he wished, naturally, since he was her husband.>>After more drinks he finally he whispered a little proposition in her>ear and she agreed, so off they went to one of the cars and had>passionate intercourse in the back seat. Just before unmasking at>midnight, she slipped away and w ent home and put the costume away and got>into>bed, wondering what kind of explanation he would make up for his outrageous>behaviour.

>>She was sitting up reading when he came in, so she asked what kind of time>he had.>>"Oh, the same old thing. You know I never have a good time when you're not>there." Then she asked, "Did you dance much?" He replied, "I'll tell you,I>never even danced one dance. When I got there, I met Pete, Bill Brown and>some other guys, so we went into the spare room and played poker all>evening">>>

You must have looked really silly wearing that costume playing poker all>night!" she said with unashamed sarcasm.>>To which the husband replied, "Actually, I gave my costume to Dad,>apparently he had the time of his life."

Rock 'n' Roll Part II (hint: sports joke)

On a tour of Florida, the Pope took a couple of days off to visit the coast for some sightseeing. He was cruising along the beach in the pope mobile when there was a frantic commotion just off shore.A helpless man, wearing a Toronto Maple Leafs jersey, was struggling frantically to free himself from the jaws of a 22-foot shark. As the Pope watched, horrified, a speedboat came racing up with three men wearing Ottawa Senator jerseys aboard. One quickly fired the harpoon into the shark's side. The other two reached out and pulled the bleeding, semiconscious Leaf fan from the water. Then using baseball bats, the three heroes in red, black and gold beat the shark to death and hauled it into the boat, too.

Immediately, the Pope shouted and summoned them to the beach. "I give you my blessing for your brave actions," he told them, "I heard that there was some bitter hatred between Leaf and Sens fans, but now I have seen with my own eyes that this is not the truth."

As the Pope drove off, the harpooner asked his buddies, "Who was that?" "It was the Pope," one replied. "He is in direct contact with God and has access to all of God's wisdom."

"Well," the harpooner said, "he may have access to God's wisdom, but he doesn't know much about shark fishing..... How's the bait holding up?"

Sloop John B

This one is for Mel!!

Hola world, sorry was MIA for a while. Was off sick yesterday--slept till 2:30 pm. Today Sis is off and was told to stay off for a week. Hmmm must be going around? Well, she works like a slave, that one.

Had a great compliment from the boss today (via his executive assistant). Said I'm 'fully trained' in all parts of my job. That means he thinks I know what I'm doing (ha!). This makes me a little nervous. I've been here exactly a month today and have so much to learn about the place it's unreal. But I am very glad that he has faith in me.

He does tend to change his mind about folks a lot tho. Oh well so far so good.

Went to dinner with pal Lou tonight and had a whale of a time talking about our pasts, meaning of life, etc. Very cool. Unfortunately that makes me long for the weekend when it's 'funner' to talk about such things when you don't have to get up early the next day.

Fortunately, my meetings tomorrow start at 9:00 with a VERY cute guy.

Net: good!!!

Talked to Mom on the way home. She said that she's never felt better in her life. That scares the bejabbers out of me, but she does act and feels fine, so...why borrow trouble?

The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe is again howling. Must go...it's after 11:00. I find writing these posts is also energizing, so have to wind down in order to fall asleep.

Man this working for a living jazz....do the rest of you bloggers find this? Does blogging relax or energize you?

Night, world.....Bridg

The Game of Tag/Love

OK, here goes for tshsmom! Tag re idiosyncrasies....

hmmmmm.

Not sure they qualify as idiosyncrasies but here are some weird things I do:

1.-I always try the door after I lock it. Have actually broken off knobs from inflicting this abuse on them. But the odd time out, I have actually forgotten to lock the door (and when it opens I'm shocked). Have actually driven back home (about half a block) to check the damn door. If I ever get an alarm system, hopefully this'll go away.

2-I hate sandwiches. Don't care what's in them, can't be bothered. Lived on pate, baguettes and soft cheese for lunch for years. Bet that has a lot to do with the blocked arteries!

3-Also am not a fan of milk or veggies unless pizza qualifies. Have the healthiest hair, skin etc. going, so don't believe that they're all THAT good for you.

4-I'm a REAL smart ass. Found it very hard to suppress smart ass answers, no matter who delivers the straight line. This includes parents, bosses, mother superiors--you name it. Fortunately I ran pretty fast in my youth and can recover quickly now. Will do or say just about anything to get a laugh.

5-Can't sleep on my right side because if I do, my left goes numb. Stupid, right? Well, it happens every time.

6-Like tshsmom, prefer to excrete at home unless I"m going to explode. Unfortunately I am on a medication which actually takes away 'warning time'. This means I can walk pretty damn fast.

7-Also like tshsmom, hate being late. If others are late, I'm not bent out of shape about it unless it's habitual. But for me, nope gotta be there on time or a bit early. One possible exception--early morning meetings. Anyone who schedules me for one of those is asking for it.

8-Will agree to ANYTHING before I wake up. Of course will forget all about it when I do wake up. Had a boss who figured this out the hard way (used to call me and ask me to do work stuff before noon on Saturdays).

9-Love being prepared. Have enough groceries and dry goods to last at least a month (not that I've calculated it, just buy lots of stuff). This is especially funny when it comes to spices. Don't like experimenting with a new dish and finding out that I'm missing an ingredient. There are 4 spice racks and two and a half cabinets--all full--of spices at my place.

10-Can't listen to music after 8-9 at night. It gets me so excited/turned on/'up' that I can't sleep (we are talking 4:00 a.m. here) afterwards.

11-Say 'mmmmmmmmmm' a lot when I'm thinking/reading. Can't stop it. Didn't know I did it till some guy I was dating mentioned it.

12-Am superstitious. Wish on stars, falling/shooting stars, knock on wood, the whole nine yards. Not sure about the ladder thing, or opening up umbrellas indoors, but am really careful about wood and stars.

Can't think of any more...Hugs, Bridg

Blackbird

Blackbird, The Beatles
courtesy of http://www.lyrics-4all.net/Blackbird_Lyrics.html
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise.
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these sunken eyes and learn to see
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to be free.
Blackbird flyblackbird fly
Into the light of the dark black night.
Blackbird flyblackbird fly
Into the light of the dark black night.
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise
You were only waiting for this moment to arise
You were only waiting for this moment to arise.

John Lennon certainly knew how to write, huh world?

I'm not targeting pals with these lyrics, but doesn't this one remind you of Raven?

Anywho....GREAT day today! Cool, crisp, ***sunny***--typical fall day. New Boss was away, got lots of work done....yahoo and no pain (well not too much). Even stayed on course with eating (i.e. ate vegetables).

Talked to M about work. He is still home sick, poor baby. He asked about the heart stuff, so I brought him up to speed. Then mentioned that I can start treadmilling. Got a 'whoa no way'--he reminded me that whatever was wrong is still wrong, and until the tests come back to stay off the treadmill. What a sweetie, of course he's right. Jumped the gun.

Also had some lovely funny e mails with S. MAN I miss being with him but it's fun being with the kids too. What S is describing there management wise, is so slimy I can't stand it. If I was still there things would be ugly (can't stand sleeze). New place isn't perfect either but it's a long long way from what the Evil Dwarf is up to (or appears to be up to). Much happier outa there. And I can still talk to Marc, S and Pauly (and Issy) anyhow.

OK the Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe is making life really miserable for me now. She's been wailing since I got home. Now this is a cat who used to greet me at the door. For the past few months, she hasn't bothered doing that. Just positions herself in front of her dinner/breakfast dish, gazing into it forlornely and giving me the big sad kitty eyes ("I'm starving you brute") as soon as I get NEAR the kitchen. Once she's fed I have to pet her continuously OR ELSE. She doesn't like me being on the computer, follows me into the bathroom...you know the drill.

Sigh. Who's in charge here?

Not me.

And there's only one other creature here....much bigger than a mouse.... better go take care of her before she starts biting my toes (a fave of hers).

Night world!!! Have a great one!!

Bridg

Every Little Kiss

Every Little Kiss
B. r. hornsby
courtesy of http://www.lyricsfreak.com/b/bruce-hornsby/24957.html

Way out here, working on the docks
Everyone sees the long day through
Well what would I do without the nights
And the phone
And the chance just to talk to you
A thousand miles away
What I wouldn’t give for only one night
A little relief in sight
Or someday when times weren’t so tight
When the day goes down on the
Water town
When the sun sinks low all around
That’s when I know I need you now
You’re what I miss
Every little kiss
Everybody here’s a number, not a name
But I guess that’s all right with me
As I sit alone after a long day
In the absence of company
Oh I let my mind wander...A thousand miles away
What I wouldn’t give for only one night
A little relief in sight
Or someday when times weren’t so tight
When the day goes down on the
Water town
When the sun sinks low all around
That’s when I know I need you now
You’re what I miss
very little kiss

For Storm and Justice

Hi world, hope you're warm tonight?

The winds out here got to 60 km per hour. WINDY. And cool. Went with Sis and Mom to see whatever the name of Jodi Foster's latest is. Despite the bad press it got, didn't think it was too bad. Would rather see it than Elizabethtown, I can tell you that! The three of us went to dinner after. It was great to see Sis. We work in similar and related organizations so we swapped horror stories. She works so much overtime that we don't get to see her often. It was great.

Not much exciting news otherwise except pain is a lot less now, swelling in ankles almost gone for the first time in a few months. COOL! No didn't get on the damn treadmill, was busy all weekend long. Got the usual household stuff done. Had to wait a bit for the prescriptions on Friday night (decided to start on the water pills this weekend to get all the peeing over with lol), and then remembered I had two errands in the same mall. Nice timing or what?

Mom is feeling very good these days, but her mind is going a bit. You have to repeat everything you say at least twice, and she does tell us/me the same things several times in a sitting. Not sure how worried to be about that. She's going to see her surgeon (the one who took care of her in the diverticulosis bout) on Monday, and her day hospital folks (the very sharp ones) on Thursday. The repeating everything is a nervous habit--she hears just fine the first time. The repeating herself stuff, well, not sure where that's coming from but hear about that often from others who have aging parents.

Hey this is my last (I fervently hope) week as a manager YAHOO!!!!

Wish we had tomorrow off. Actually wouldn't mind a week or two and wouldn't care if it rained the whole week. Oh well, no real issues.

I would rather take a bad month in this new place than a day with that evil dwarf that I had to deal with before (Mr. B) anytime. Had a phone call from New Old Boss (G man) on Friday. It took me half an hour on the phone to get him to locate Windows Explorer. He said that he didn't have that on his machine and yes he'd checked.

Then he didn't know how to sort files by date. His 'View' settings were on icons. Had to walk him through that.

I was ready to pull hair out after an hour of this. His hair.

Also had a meeting with a similarly hopeless type on Friday, but the latter one is more understandable (desperate for lack of funds) than Mr. G.

Well, he'll catch on. He's one of those guys who makes his staff present papers at conferences as punishment/in trade for letting them attend. One of THOSE. He's almost military except for the (sorry for the bad karma here) honest-to-goodness-totally-hopeless cluelessness.

Those guys always get it in the end.

I'm not the most patient person in the world. Well, I am with people who cannot help being out of it. Newbies, handicapped, slow folks--and desperate ones, no problem. Arrogant folks who swing their authority around AND who are stupid--look out, I am your worst nightmare.

All in all, a great place to be away from.

Sorry for the rant there, just had to get it out of my system.

Anyhow, wherever you are tonight world, may you be dry, warm and well-lighted.

Hugs, Bridg

Zen Sarcasm

Thanks Zel!!

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me the hell alone.> >> >
2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and tire.> >> >
3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.> >> >
4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.> >> >
5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.> >> >
6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.> >> >
7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.> >> >
8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.> >> >
9. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.> >> >
10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.> >> >
11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.> >> >
12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.> >> >
13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.> >> >
14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.> >> >
15. Good judgment comes from bad experience, and a lot of that> >> >
16. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.> >> >
17. A closed mouth gathers no foot.> >> >
18. Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.> >>
19. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.> >> >
20. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.> >> >
21. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.> >> >
22. Never miss a good chance to shut up.> >> >
23. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and alaxative on the same night> >

The Sign

The Sign, Ace of Base courtesy of: http://www.lyricsfreak.com/a/ace-of-base/3645.html

For Undies

Shock!
I got a new life
You would hardly recognize me
I’m so glad
How can a person like me care for you
Why do I bother
When you’re not the one for me
Is enough enough
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign
Life is demanding without understanding
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign
No one’s gonna drag you up
To get into the light where you belong
But where do you belong
Under the pale moon
For so many years I’ve wondered
Who you are
How can a person like you bring me joy
Under the pale moon
Where I see a lot of stars
Is enough enoughI saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign
Life is demanding without understanding
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign
No one’s gonna drag you up
To get into the light where you belong
But where do you belong
I saw the sign and it opened up my mind
And I am happy now
Living without you
I’ve left you all alone
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign
No one’s gonna drag you up
To get into the light where you belong
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes
I saw the sign

Never realized what these lyrics were saying but when I read through them it reminded me of Undies.

Hola world, hope your weekend's bright and fun....

Sun peeked out here for the first time in about two weeks. Not that rain is bad, but....sun is nice

Doctor appointment didn't keep me waiting as long as it usually does (2 hours). They don't know what's up. Going to do echocardiogram in two weeks. Prescribed diuretics to get rid of some of the ankle mess (doc's words when she noticed them: 'oh dear'). She also said--YAHOO--that I can take pain killers because my blood pressure's fine. Oh MAN what a relief. Not that the painkillers do all that much, but something beats nothing anyday in my book. And she prescribed (at my request) naproxen. In Canada you can't buy it over the counter for some reason. Anyway, it helps!! Also...have more cardiac blockages. Two more. One's on the same artery on which I have the stent, the other's on the other big cardiac artery.

Not to worry, 50% of folks who have heart attacks don't have blockage/cholesterol probs.

And she said that I can go back to treadmilling (is that a word?). So this is all cool.

Am very glad about the diuretics!

Was supposed to go for a drink with M on Friday night but he had a cold and was at home. That's good as it turns out. Got a lovely compliment from New Boss (guy) on the work I stayed late to do and a big thank you too. Made my week/day. He said that my expertise shows, and that it's helping a lot to get this huge job done. *grin twinkle* it's surprising how much difference a nice word or two can make!

Mom's doing great. Sis is too. Haven't heard from either Bro in a while, which is good news (bad news travels fast).

Off to do shopping etc.

Have a lovely day, world!

Hugs, Bridg

Pilot of the Airwaves

Pilot of the Airwaves Charlie Dore courtesy of http://www.oldielyrics.com/lyrics/charlie_dore/pilot_of_the_airwaves.html

Pilot of the airwaves
Here is my request
You don't have to play it
But I hope you'll do your best
I've been listening to your show on the radio
And you seem like a friend to me

Or a record of your choice
I don't mind
I'd be happy just to hear your voice
Saying this is for the girl
Who didn't sign her name
Yes, she needs a dedication just the same
Late at night I'm still listening
Don't waste my time chasing sleep
People say I look weary
But that 's just the company I keep

Ooooh, you make the nighttime race
Ooooh, I don't need to see your face
You're sounding good (sounding good)
Sounding good to me

Pilot of the airwaves
Here is my request
You don't have to play it
But I hope you'll do your best
I've been listening to your show on the radio
And you seem like a friend to me
[Instrumental Interlude]

Late at night I'm still listening
Don't waste my time chasing sleep
People say I look weary
But that's just the company I keep

Ooooh, you make the nighttime race
Ooooh, I don't need to see your face
You're sounding good (sounding good)
Sounding good to me

Pilot of the airwaves
Here is my request
You don't have to play it
But I hope you'll do your best
I've been listening to your show on the radio
And you seem like a friend to me
(Oooooh, I been) listening to your show on the radio
And you seem like a friend to me
Oooooh-ooooh-oooooh
Oooooh-ooooh-ooooohOooooh-ooooh-oooooh
Play that song for me
Oooooh-ooooh-oooooh
Won't you just
play that song for me

Hi world!

Not much to talk about today. Volunteered to help two groups of people that I wasn't supposed to help (they've dragged their butts on something)...thought I'd lost my purse in the washroom (hadn't, it was in my drawer where I left it)...met a very cute guy in one of the meetings...in general was very rushed/busy but a tad frazzled. That isn't me.

Also had an impossible task to get done by the time I went home. Did it, but stayed till 7:30 to do it.

Seeing the doc tomorrow too (that'll be fun she groans).

Very dull today. Rained like all get out. New office very impressive, or would be with a phone and computer lol.

Really looking forward to Boss Lady coming back. Maybe others can do it, but I find it hard to work tekkie stuff and manage at the same time.

Did get to chat with Pauly, that's always fantastic.

Hope you're well, dry and happy, world!

Tomorrow's FRIDAY YAHOOO!!!!!

Bridg

The Cure

Subject: Dr Ph**'s advice

I am passing this on to you because it definitely worked for me and we
all could use more calm in our lives.
By following the simple advice I heard on a Dr. Ph** show, I have
finally found inner peace. Dr. Ph** proclaimed the way to achieve inner
peace is to finish all the things you have started.

So I looked around my house to see things I started and hadn't finished, and, before
leaving the house this morning finished a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of
White Zinfandel, a bottle of Baileys, a bottle of Kahlua, a package of
Oreos, the remainder of both Prozac and Valium prescriptions, the rest
of the Cheesecake, some Saltines and a box of Chocolates.
You have no idea how freaking good I feel.

Please pass this on to those you feel are in need of inner peace.

PARTY AT BRIDG'S!!!

Lookin' Out My Back Door

Wow CCR. Don't think I liked them when they were around, did you? Kinda a guys' group if you know what I mean.

Still rainy here ...but that's OK. Got in to see a sports med doctor first thing today. What I thought would take 15 minutes took 2 hours, most of it waiting to get an X ray done. Have arthritis on both sides of kneecap and the anti-inflammatory pain killers (Tylenol does zip for me) cause blood pressure increases so I can't take them.

Artificial joints, anyone? Am only half kidding here.

Asked what was wrong with the balloon ankles. He poked his finger into my leg from ankle to knee and wherever he poked stayed poked in. Looked weird. Said it was 'pitted edema' (lovely sounding, isn't it) and to check it out with the heart guy (that one is on Friday). Oh well knowledge is power, allegedly. Then as an added treat, scheduled me for physio at (get this) 7:45. A.M., that is (means getting up at 6:00). And also have a meeting on Friday a.m. at 8:30.

OK message received. Start getting up early. OK OK OK!!

Got assigned a really neat project with great people to work on today too. It's a teckie job, and involves very nice women from a nearby group including the director, since my new but off for a month director boss lady comes back in 5 days. Also the ladder climing audit type but...she's not the main thing. I can't wait. Am not fond of supervision/management. Like to do work! AND my new office is ready YAHOO!! I move in first thing tomorrow. Is that cool or what? Am beginning to get attached to these folks. In a different way from the older crowd at the old job but attached. They drop by to talk about their news of the day, their triumphs, see how things are going. They are great kids. And of course Lou is Lou. A gem! This doesn't mean I don't miss Pauly, S, Marc and Issy (and of course M). I miss them like crazy and they're not just 'work pals' if you know what I mean. Some of the folks here thought it surprising that I'm still pals with those guys. Ohhhh yes. Once you find folks this fine, you stick with them!

Pal Lou got free tickets to see a movie premiere tonight--Elizabethtown.

Don't. Even if you get free tickets, don't go to this thing! People who make movies like this should not be encouraged.

I was glad to get out and relax, but the damn thing is 2 hours long. Thought it had reached a natural end hours before it did. Kind of like Thelma and Louise when all that desert scenery started flashing by. The movie does have some cute bits and lines in it, and Orlando Bloom did some cute things I wouldn't have expected him to do but the thing is at least an hour too long. And since I couldn't put my balloon ankles up...at one point was wondering if they'd explode or leak or something. Well, you never know....

And getting INTO this thing! They made everyone line up (standing is hell on several counts these days. And it takes a LOT to get me to complain about pain), then they went over everyone with a metal detector AND looked into our purses.

Yah right. Oh well. At least there weren't any commercials whatsoever, which was great. Guess I'm not a first night type. Several people gave up and left. I think about 8.

So in Zomb parliance, woul give this 2 dead zombies, and only because of Susan Sarandon's tap dancing. She shone for the few minutes that she was in this movie.

Got lots of cuddles from the anti-cuddles cat (The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe). Think that she was glad that I came home. Me too.

Am getting sleepy...will visit your sites tomorrow. Sorry for the whining...will be better behaved tomorrow!!

Luv to all,

Bridg

It's Me!

ONE LINERS
1...Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know the batteries are getting weak?
#2...Why do banks charge a fee on "insufficient funds" when they know there is no money in the account?#3...Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?
#4...Why doesn't glue stick to the bottle?
#5...Why do they use sterilized needles for death by lethal injection?
#6...Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?
#7...Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when youthrow a revolver at him?
#8...Why did Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?
#9...Whose idea was it to put an "S" in the word "lisp"?
#10..If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?
#11..Why is it that no matter what color bubble bath you use thebubbles are always white?
#12..Is there ever a day that mattresses are not on sale?
#13..Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopesthat something new to eat will have materialized?
#14..Why do people keep running over a string a dozen times with their vacuum cleaner, then reach down, pick it up, examine it, then put itdown to give the vacuum one more chance?
#15..Why is it that no plastic bag will open from the end you first try?
#16..How do those dead bugs get into those enclosed light fixtures?
#17..When we are in the supermarket and someone rams our ankle with ashopping cart then apologizes for doing so, why do we say, "It's all right?" Well, it isn't all right so why don't we say, "That hurt, you stupid idiot?"
#18..Why is it that whenever you attempt to catch something that'sfalling off the table you always manage to knock something else over?
#19..In winter why do we try to keep the house as warm as it was in summer when we complained about the heat?
#20..How come you never hear father-in-law jokes?
#21..If at first you don't succeed, shouldn't you try it like your wife told you to do it?
#23 ..The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four persons issuffering from some sort of mental illness. Think of your three best friends, if they're okay, then it's you.

2% Bridg

At the end of this message, you are asked a question.

>>Answer it immediately. Don't stop and think about it.

>>>Just say the first thing that pops into your mind.

>>This is a fun "test"... AND kind of spooky (very spooky) at the same time!>

Give it a try, then e-mail it around (including back to me) and you'll see >how many people you know fall into the same percentage as you.

Be sure to >put in the subject line if you are among the 98% or the 2%.

You'll >understand what that means after you finish taking the "test".

>>>Now... just follow the instructions as quickly as possible.

>>>>Do not go to the next calculation before you have finished the previous >one..

>>>>You do not ever need to write or remember the answers, just do it using >your mind.

>>>You'll be surprised.>

>>>Start:>>>

How much is:>>89 + 2>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

12 + 53>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>75 + 26

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

25 + 52>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

63 + 32>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I know! Calculations are hard work, but it's nearly over..>>>>

Come on, one more...>>>>>>>!>>>>>

123 + 5>>>>>>



QUICK! THINK ABOUT A COLOR AND A TOOL!


>>>>>>>>>Scroll further to the bottom...


>>>>>>>A bit more...


>>>>>>>You just thought about a red hammer, didn't you?

>>>>If this is not your answer, you are among 2% of people who have a >different, if not abnormal, mind.

>>>98% of the folks would answer a red hammer while doing this exercise.

>>>If you do not believe this, pass it around and you'll see.

>>>>Be sure to put in the subject line if you are among the 98% or the 2% and >send to everyone, including the person that sent it to you.

I thought of a blue wrench.
Sigh.


Flunked again!

There Goes My Appetite

A big Texan cowboy stopped at a local restaurant following a day of drinking and roaming around in Mexico. While sipping his tequila, he noticed a sizzling, scrumptious looking platter being served at the next table.

Not only did it look good, the smell was wonderful.He asked the waiter, "What is that you just served? "The waiter replied, "Ah senor, you have excellent taste! Those are bull's testicles from the bull fight this morning. A delicacy!"

The cowboy, though momentarily daunted, said, "What the heck, I'm on vacation down here! Bring me an order! "The waiter replied, "I am so sorry senor. There is only one serving per day because there is only one bull fight each morning. If you come early tomorrow and place your order, we will be sure to save you this delicacy"!

The next morning, the cowboy returned, placed his order, and thenthat evening he was served the one and only special delicacy of the day.After a few bites, and inspecting the contents of his platter, he called to the waiter and said, "These are delicious, but they aremuch, much smaller than the ones I saw you serve yesterday!

"The waiter shrugged his shoulders and replied, "Si, Senor. Sometimes the bull wins."

The Illness Known as Golf

10 GOOD CADDIE REMARKS>>

#10>Golfer: "Think I'm going to drown myself in the lake.">
Caddy: "Think you can keep your head down that long?">

#9>Golfer: "I'd move heaven and e arth to break 100 on this course.">
Caddy: "Try heaven, you've already moved most of the earth.">

#8>Golfer: "Do you think my game is improving?">
Caddy: "Yes sir, you miss the ball much closer now. ">

#7>Golfer: "Do you think I can get there with a 5 iron?">
Caddy: "Eventually.">

#6>Golfer: "You've got to be the worst caddy in the world.">
Caddy: "I don't think so sir. That would be too much of a>coincidence.">

#5>Golfer: "Please stop checking your watch all the time. It's a big>distraction.">
Caddy: "It's not a watch ~ it's a compass.">

#4>Golfer: "How do you like my game?">
Caddy: "Very good sir, but personally, I prefer golf.">

#3>Golfer: "Do you think it's a sin to play on Sunday?>
Caddy: "The way you play, sir, it's a sin on any day.">

#2>Golfer: "This is the worst course I've ever played on.">
Caddy: " This isn't the golf course. We left that an hour ago.">

#1>Golfer: "That can't be my ball, it's too old.">
Caddy: "It's been a long time since we teed off, sir."

Cinnamon Girl

Hey Neil Young!!!

Hi world, sorry I missed the last few days. Ankle swelled up like a balloon. Happened to go to Sis' for Thanksgiving and she/her girlfriend noticed the foot. Iced it and it looks normal! Working on the computer always messes things up anklewise, so I gave it a day's rest.

Yes am going to the stupid doctor tomorrow about it/knee/etc. Getting old sucks but it beats the alternative.

Hope your weekend was great, everyone? It rained here, which was great (no pain and a great excuse to not garden). Food was fabulous, family even better, and had all day Monday to catch up on housework like last week's laundry (you can only take so much of the cat holding her nose). All caught up now.

Had a, well, Monday today, even tho it's Tuesday (NCIS everyone!).

Lots of confusion--audit manager stealing both work and people until I put my foot down (with our boss. It is not my job to manage politics and none of the staff want to work with her, so he's on it) around 4:45 today. There is no politics as far as I go, I'm only acting boss for two more weeks, then I get to do some real work. Didn't want the poor guys who are hiding from this lady to get stuck with her.

Did manage to get work done too...oddly enough lol.

Not much else going on. Mom feeling great (aquafit works wonders for her), I'm scheduled at the doc's for two appointments (heart and feet), pretty much things are under control, or as under control as they're likely to be. Got to talk to M today, turns out he's in charge of something we had a rush on today. He was his usual lovely nice self. Isn't it great how sometimes GOOD things don't change?

Yah!

It's still raining here and is supposed to all week. Hope wherever you are that you're warm, dry and happy, world.

Unless you like being cool, wet and grumpy lol.

Buenos noches!

Bridg

Along Came Jones

The Lone Ranger was ambushed and captured by an enemy Indian war party.
> >
> > The Indian Chief proclaims, "So, you are the great Lone Ranger. In
> >honor of the Buffalo Festival, you will be executed in three days. But,
> >before I kill you, I will grant you three requests. What is your first
> >request?"
> >
> > The Lone Ranger responds, "I'd like to speak to my horse." The Chief
> >nods and Silver is brought before the Lone Ranger, who whispers in
>Silver's
>
> >ear, and the horse gallops away.
> >
> >
> > Later that evening, Silver returns with a beautiful blonde woman on his
> >back. As the Indian Chief watches, the blonde enters the Lone Ranger's
> >tent and spends the night.
> >
> > The next morning the Indian Chief admits he's impressed. "You have a
> >very fine and loyal horse, but I will still kill you in two days. What is
> >your second request?"
> >
> > The Lone Ranger again asks to speak to his horse.
> > Silver is brought to him, and he again whispers in the horse's ear. As
> >before, Silver takes off across the plains and disappears over the
>horizon.
> >
> > Later that evening, to the Chief's surprise, Silver again returns, this
> >time with a voluptuous brunette, even more attractive than the blonde.
>She
> >enters the Lone Ranger's tent and spends the night.
> >
> > The following morning the Indian Chief is again impressed. "You are
> >indeed a man of many talents, but I will still kill you tomorrow. What is
> >your last request?"
> >
> > The Lone Ranger responds, "I'd like to speak to my horse, ...alone. The
> >Chief is curious, but he agrees, and Silver is brought to the Lone
>Ranger's
>
> >tent. Once they're alone, the Lone Ranger grabs Silver by both ears,
>looks
> >him square in the eye and says, "READ MY LIPS" I said, "BRING POSSE"

Sign of the Times

Signs from restaurants and bars, etc., across the country . . . .


Friends don't let friends
take home ugly men
Women's restroom
Starboard, Dewey Beach, DE








Beauty is only a light switch away.
Perkins Library, Duke University, Durham, NC








If life is a waste of time,
and time is a waste of life,
then let's all get wasted together
and have the time of our lives.
Armand's Pizza, Washington, DC








Remember, it's not,
"How high are you?"
it's "Hi, how are you?"
Rest stop off Route 81, West Virginia








Fighting for peace is like
screwing for virginity.
The Bayou, Baton Rouge, LO








No matter how good she looks,
some other guy is sick and tired
of putting up with her.
Men's Room
Linda's Bar and Grill, Chapel Hill, NC








At the feast of ego
everyone leaves hungry.
Bentley's House of Coffee and Tea, Tucson, AZ








It's hard to make a comeback
when you haven't been anywhere.
Written in the dust on the back of a bus,
Wickenburg, AZ








Make love, not war.
-Hell, do both
GET MARRIED!
Women's restroom
The Filling Station, Bozeman, MT












If voting could really change things,
it would be illegal.
Revolution Books
New York, New York.











If pro is opposite of con,then what is the

opposite of progress? Congress!
Men's restroom House of Representatives,
Washington, DC









Express Lane:
Five beers or less
Sign over one of the urinals
Ed Debevic's, Phoenix, AZ










You're too good for him.
Sign over mirror in Women's restroom
Ed Debevic's, Beverly Hills,CA.











No wonder you always go home alone.
Sign over mirror in Men's restroom,
Ed Debevic's, Beverly Hills,CA








and lastly the ladies favorite ~~~




A Woman's Rule of Thumb:
If it has tires or testicles,
you're going to have trouble with it.
Women's restroom
Dick's Last Resort, Dallas, TX

Living In America

Not a fan of his personal politics but like his singing....Hey world, happy Sunday!!

Got in at 2:00 something last night oops morning. Surprised I woke up at 11 and not later. It's a very fall day here, cloudy, cool. Finally turned the furnace on today.

Spent most of the evening swapping stories with Lou (and losing at a game called UpWords), which was fun. Boy have I got to house clean/fix before she comes over here!!

Don't remember Friday at all, except that I left the office at 5:00 with a firm resolution to continue to do that. It's the kind of office where overtime is naturally expected, but by the end of the day I'm in a hell of a lot of pain feet wise so the sooner I can get home and put them up, the better. Besides, it's just plain wrong to train a boss to think that it's OK for you to stay hours later than usual. I think.

Boy am I getting bold or what?

Lou is a COOK. She loves cooking and it shows. We went throught 1.5 bottles of wine over a few hours, and although I got lost going there, didn't get lost going home. She's also a fantastic, very artsy decorator. Me? I haven't painted much of this house since I moved in here 13 years ago. Barely notice when the walls need washing. A cobweb would have to hit me in the face before I'd see it, much less do something about it. (heh heh heh bet I'm giving some of you the creeps, right?). Let's put it this way, the house is not 'poison neat', but it is in good shape. I get to the housework when I can and don't sweat it when I can't. Lou is into control big time. I learned to not do that a long time ago. Just diffr'ent strokes.

And Sis is doing the turkey cooking today YIPPEE I'm bringing Mom, wine and flowers. Should be wonderful. And Monday's the holiday here. Lovely.

What are you grateful for, world? Where you live? How you live? The people in your lives? Beloved pets?

Yup I"m grateful for all of that, my escape from Mr. B/TLT, the kindness of the people I work with, something new and challenging to do, fall colors, the way that the leaves and earth smell in autumn, sweaters, sweatpants, flannel pjs, and most of all my family including The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe, and dear friends (Pauly, Marc, M, S, Issy, Lou and you folks).

Happy Sunday to my non-Canadian buddies, and Happy Thanksgiving to my Canadian pals.

MWAH and hugs, Bridg

Wisdom of Youth

Custody Battle Ruling:

A seven year old boy from Toronto was at the centre of
a courtroom drama in an Ontario Superior Courthouse
this morning when he challenged a court ruling over who
should have legal custody of the juvenile.

The boyhas a history of being beaten repeatedly by both
parents and the judge had previously awarded custody to
the boy's aunt.The boy confirmed that his aunt beat him
more than his parents and refused to live there.

When the judge then suggested that he be placed with his grandparents,
the boy cried out that they beat him more severely than anyone.

The judge, in an unprecedented ruling, dramatically allowed the boy,
in spite of his youth and obvious inexperience, to make his own choice
as towho should have legal guardianship over him.

In front of a packed and cheering courtroom this morning, custody was subsequently granted to the TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS as the boy stated his firm belief that they are, in point of fact, not capable of beating anyone....and so the season begins !!!


Go Sens Go!

Sign of the Gypsy Queen/Tag of the Jipzeecab

I've been "tagged" by Jipzee Cab in some internet chain game I confess to not understanding.I'm tagging the following bloggers before someone else does:
Mel
Wandering Coyote
Zombieslayer
Nicco
Bsoholic
(Raven I didn't tag you because you've already done this one)

Thank you in advance for your participation.

Follow these instuctions....
1. go into your archive
2. Find your 23rd post
3. Find the 5th sentence (or close to it)
4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog with these instructions
5. Tag five other people to do the same

My 23rd post was Lavender Blue Lavender Green Monday March 21, 2005.
The fifth sentence was "M has pneumonia, and if he is silly enough to come to work tomorrow, I'll bring in some for him." I was talking about making lentil soup in the sentence prior to that.

Bridg

Crystal Blue Persuasion

Hola world, HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!

Missed a day or two of posting. Falling asleep again...it's fall. Have noticed that in spring and fall when the temp changes, I start sleeping a lot. Must be part bear.

Anyway, the presentation on Thursday? The Prez didn't show, and it's a good thing he didn't. New Boss said that I was good, think I was OK but the substance, which we don't control, needed an update (which is done by others). Got great pointers and a warm welcome from the group. One of them, who gave good ideas on what the Prez is likely to react to said that it wasn't a reflection of the work, just his experience with the new boss on what he'd react to. That was great info, and I didn't feel uncomfortable at all. The stuff I presented had been hanging around since 1999. LATE. Everyone was and is supportive and nice--mutually supportive. It is just so nurturing.

What happened after was even better. Did get a lot of things done (they got 'unstuck' from the New Boss' office), got more work (also good), and one of the auditors--the more senior one--dropped by to tell me how much people like working with me, and that the entire audit staff wanted to join my/our group because of that. Wow. Made my day I can tell you that. Also got an attaperson (my version of an 'attaboy') on some work that I did from New Boss.

So ended my third week in the new place. Feeling fine, much more in control (or is it less out of control) in the job. Am going to dinner tomorrow at Lou's (she is such a sweetie). Sunday is Thanksgiving dinner at Sis'. Naturally, am the one bringing wine to both dinners. This is my fave holiday. No stress with it, like there can be at Christmas, the weather's wonderful (though it's raining here) and the trees are usually gorgeous. Plus you never can get too much turkey in my book.

Hey speaking of that the movie The Replacements was just on. Man I am not a football or even sports type, but can watch that movie half a dozen times and not get sick of it.

Also love rainy weather. Puts me in a good mood usually. OK I"m weird....lol.

Mom is feeling fabulous. Going back to aquafit is her proof that she can do what she used to do (prior to her heart attack last Christmas, which is when I started blogging). She sounds and feels top of her game, which is a real shot in the arm.

Speaking of shots in the arm, finally made an appointment at the crack of dawn (9:15) to see a sports med doctor to find out what in heaven's name is wrong with my knee/leg. The naproxen works but ...I just need to know what's wrong and how to fix it. It's been over 5 weeks.

So world, hope that you're happy, dry, and bundled up as needed. And that your weekend rocks!!

Love, Bridg

Radio Goo-Goo

Hi World, hope your day was good?

It's still 'summer' here, oddly enough.

Did make the crack-of-dawn (8:30) meeting. Was the first one there! Mr. B/TLT wasn't there. Some people that I knew were, and it was a good morning. Brainstorming mostly. Did run into a former big shot in the field in which I work. He was meeting M that night for a beer and to give him career advice. Not sure that this guy knows which shoe goes on which foot, but hey. Gave M the low-down on the man's thoughts after the meeting.

Got a warning from a pal, a very senior one, about my new boss. She mentioned the high turnover and his emotional nature. Had noticed both things and realize that there's a vulnerability there BUT I trust and like this guy (my gut feel is usually right). It was nice of her to look out for me, though.

New Boss had some of our gang to lunch at his house to thank them for some extraordinary work that they did on a special task. The lady I'm acting for (new boss-lady) went to the lunch. She'd led the task work. According to the guys, she was very hyper, talked about nothing but work, and noted that half of her time off had passed, but she looked happy and better rested. Good. She, New Boss (guy) and I all have workaholic tendencies. After burning out twice, I've gotten mine (mostly) under control, I think New Boss (guy) has too for the most part. Not sure about New Boss (lady).

Personally I can't wait for her to come back. Am not a fan of managing, am much better at and happier doing the technical stuff.

Am first on the agenda for a meeting of New Big Shots tomorrow. The chair, and Prez of where I work, is someone I know from a long time ago. 1990, to be exact. He stuck me with an obnoxious and very very important task, is independently wealthy and I suspect a snob (one of those guys who won't talk to you unless you're at his level). He may have changed in the interim, I sure have. I've also gained...significant 'poundage' since last saw him. Most people don't recognize me from those days. Unfortunately they do recognize the voice. Oh well, we'll see how it goes. The kind of stuff I'm presenting hasn't been done in this group before. Hate going first. Oh well. It's only 15 minutes (allegedly).

Wish me luck, world!

Have a wonderful evening, Bridg

Let's Call The Whole Thing Off

Hope this isn't seen as racist. I just thought it was a scream...Thanks Peter!

To get the full effect, this should be read aloud. You will understand what 'tenjewberrymuds' means by the end of the conversation. This has been nominated for the best email of 2005.

The following is a telephone exchange between a hotel guest and room-service, at a hotel in Asia, which was recorded and published in the Far East Economic Review:

Room Service (RS): "Morrin. Roon sirbees."

Guest (G): "Sorry, I thought I dialed room-service."

RS: "Rye..Roon sirbees..morrin! Jewish to oddor sunteen??"

G: "Uh..yes..I'd like some bacon and eggs."

RS: "Ow July den?"

G: "What??"
RS: "Ow July den?...pryed, boyud, poochd?"

G : "Oh, the eggs! How do I like them? Sorry, scrambled please."

RS: "Ow July dee baykem? Crease?"

G: "Crisp will be fine."

RS : "Hokay. An Sahn toes?"

G: "What?"

RS:"An toes. July Sahn toes?"

G: "I don't think so."

RS: "No? Judo wan sahn toes??"

G: "I feel really bad about this, but I don't know what 'judo wan sahn toes' means."

RS: "Toes! toes!...Why jew don juan toes? Ow bow Anglish moppin we bodder?"

G: "English muffin!! I've got it! You were saying 'Toast.' Fine. Yes, an English muffin will be fine."

RS: "We bodder?"

G: "No...just put the bodder on the side."

RS: "Wad?"

G: "I mean butter...just put it on the side."

RS: "Copy?"

G: "Excuse me?"

RS: "Copy...tea...meel?"

G: "Yes. Coffee, please, and that's all."

RS: "One Minnie. Scramah egg, crease baykem, Anglish moppin we bodder on sigh and copy....rye??"

G: "Whatever you say."

RS: "Tenjewberrymuds."

G : "You're very welcome."

Sweet Georgia Brown

Darn those basketball commercials! Now I can't get that stupid song out of my head...


Hi World!! Hope you're having a great week?

Almost stayed home to sleep today but since had a three hour tutorial in a new computer system lined up (one on one no less--very rare), dragged my carcass in to work. Everyone was in odd/bad moods. Made a stupid mistake in a slide presentation/deck. Unfortunately my boss found it, but apparently he gets a lot of 'crappy' stuff from my colleagues, so my shock/horror at the error wasn't called for. Still.....

The office I'm in for now (my boss') was so full of paper, so flipping unorganized/messy that today I couldn't stand it anymore and spent about two hours fixing it once the computer lady was through with me. Am not a neat freak (if you saw my floors/carpet you'd understand) but it was just so bad...anyway all fixed now. At least for a few hours. Makes it easier to concentrate. Don't understand how but it does.

Heard from M at the end of the day which is so nice. Am going to a #$!@%^ meeting that starts at 8:30 downtown tomorrow (means getting up at 6. I can barely get out of bed by 8), and TLT/Mr. B will likely be there. Said I'd say hello to him for M and me but would likely use something sharp to do it with. M talked me out of that. Said 'we need you here, not in jail' ....oh well another great idea shot to hell. Tee hee hee. Also had a chat with pal of pals Pauly. And he sent me a wonderful e mail too reminding me not to be too hard on myself. Are they the best or what? Sheesh I was lucky to be with those guys.

Not that the New Kids are bad--they're phenomenal. Miss being bad with Pauly tho (I mean acting up at work). Am behaving now but that's gonna have to end some time. Patience, Bridg, patience. Also went out for coffee after work with Lou (new pal at new job, who also has a nutso sense of humor). We're going to a blues club on Saturday YAY!!

Also noticed that all the walking at this new job is shaking loose a few pounds. Pants fitting loser. Hmm. cool.

Mom went to her first aquafit class since her heart attack Christmas Day. She was fine. Very happy with the class and seeing her old buddies. Nice to hear her enthusiasm. And she's back to weekly lunches with other buddies, so things are much much better for her these days.

And it's a long weekend this weekend AND NCIS was on tonight AND ...Monday's over lol. Looking good for now...let's hope it lasts.

Love ya, world!

Bridg

It's The End of the World As We Know It

Hola world! Buenos noches or however you spell that...

First, that Celadrin and boosting the glucosamine worked wonders. Hardly hurt or 'swelled' all day, which is something new but great. Really felt like I am beginning to get a grip on this job. Sorta. Didn't feel lost or overwhelmed, and that's a good and new thing. Visited with each of 'the kids' (staff) first thing this morning. It's something M used to do that I loved. They're so young, so nice and enthusiastic.

Did get things done today. I mean started and done in the same day. Felt good. Then dummy here went and volunteered (in response to a New Boss question) to help set up a workshop in something I know a lot about. Unfortunately that means that I"m gonna have to get people to come to it and I don't know enough about the new org to do that. OK need someone to help me.

Is managing about getting people together/to help you? Used to think it was about doing but am pretty sure it isn't. At least for now it isn't.

Tried to read four heavy reports (I sort of have to present what we did in response to them on Thursday) but wasn't really comprehending what I read. Ever had one of those moments? Need sleep!

Got into work on time, brought lunch and for once ate it (healthy stuff). Also got to talk to S, who's gotta be one of the neatest, nicest, smartest and just all around greatest folks there is. Made my day. Also had to talk to a lot of people I didn't know here..who'd worked on those blasted reports I couldn't read. So many of them were new to the job it's funny (also makes me wonder what the heck is going on. A lot of retirements). Ever tried to follow up on something where everyone involved was gone? Permanently gone? Ya gotta laugh after a while.

Even had healthy stuff for dinner. Thus the title of this post.

I feel really sorry for the lady I'm replacing this month. Am seated in her office and every drawer is stuffed with junk and nothing useable. I mean trash. That's probably not a good sign. She got two boxes full of heavy stuff delivered to her today and I'm dreading asking someone to get whatever-it-is. Hopefully she's getting lots of rest.

Picked up a prescription for Mom's cat and delivered it today. She starts aquafit classes tomorrow which should be great for her. She misses her old buddies from the pool and a friend of hers teaches it. She's such a social animal, it must be tough the few days a month when she isn't out with her buds. The woman has a more active social life than I do!

Sis is cooking Thanksgiving dinner again (YAY!! Turkey, wine, no dishes and an extra day off yahoo!). Yet it's supposed to be hot-ish all week. This is such weird weather.

No word from Little Bro, so all is probably well. Think this is probably the fifth time this year we've had a phone call like the last one.

Have a wonderful evening, world!

hugs, Bridg

Needle And The Damage Done

Hey world, how goes it??

Today was hot again and it'll be hotter tomorrow: 28! OK can't move back to Farenheight too well but it's a/c time again. If this is climate change I'll take it....

Got a few more groceries and two new suits (thus am again overdraft), both dark grey. There are some really obnoxious colours all over out there, so dark grey it is. I mean, LIME GREEN? Who's gonna wear THAT? Oh never mind, someone probably does. And the worst pink I've ever imagined. Pepto Bismol makes a nicer pink. No big deal, just wonder if whoever is in charge of such decisions actually hates women deep down. Both pairs of pants have to be taken up, naturally.

More importantly, no word from Little Bro. Hope he is OK, we would have heard by now if he isn't (the police would have called. In the past, they've actually had to call the police to keep the MIL from driving home to Montreal drunk. Lovely). Sis and I think he tried negotiating with the Dynamic Duo in Montreal (e.g., how much it's going to cost for them to break up. EWWWWWWWWWWWW! Doing that at all? Especially without a lawyer?). My shrink said that 'when you live with them, you get like them'. In this case that's not a good thing.

Re more mundane matters, got some glucosamine sulphate. Figured out (duh) that some of the probs I've had with pain have to do with cutting my daily dose of this stuff. And found something new (to me) in the herbal line for arthritis, Celadrin. Better than that, a small booklet on managing arthritis came with it. MAN have I been messing up (hence the title of tonight's post).

Had read it before, but didn't believe it until now, taking NSAIDS (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) increases joint deterioration. So by taking ibuprofen, was (3 tablets at a time, for months) actually making the arthritis worse as well as damaging my liver. See this link for related info on health aids (http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=2f013354-aed3-4319-b034-45acd76f4b1c&chunkiid=21505) on arthritis and NSAIDS http://www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier/booth/booths/bones.html. Not that pristine livers are a big concern, but again it's related to pain. Definitely am not in favour of pain. Well maybe in Mr. B's butt but that's about all....

So for now am trying to do this the non-NSAIDS way. Do feel better with the Celadrin but it may be just in my head. Also am starting (again) on the weight battle. According to this booklet, a gain of 10 pounds puts 40 additional pounds of pressure on joints. I've gain a lot more than 10 pounds! Wish I could type that entire booklet into this space, it would be useful.

So if I'm successful the clothes I just bought won't fit but my old ones will.

Is it Sunday night so soon? AGAIN? Wouldn't you all just love a week or two somewhere sunny with a beach? Am ready myself....

Happy Monday world. Please keep your fingers crossed for LB....Bridg

Dinner with Mom was great. She had some Aleve (can't get that over the counter up in Canada, so we go to New York every once in a while). That plus two margeritas definitely helped with the leg. Thanksgiving in Canada is next weekend, so we talked about that. Sis is doing the cooking, bless her heart. Know why we do Thanksgiving in October? Because by November, like in the U.S., NO ONE in Canada is feeling thankful about the weather (lol hey I bet that really is the reason!).

Workin At The Carwash Blues

Yay Jim Croce!!

How are you tonight, world? Here the weather is definitely confused. It's warm again. Warm enough for a/c?? In Canada??? In October??? Oh well, get to wear the summer stuff a bit more. The garden's still in bloom. It is sooo nice.

Last night was the second without meds. Did take some time and watching some awful movie (Anaconda, I think) until 2 but it worked. Will skip the meds from now on. Didn't do much today except go to get some pants hemmed (5'8", all of it torso, definitely not legs!) and groceries. Mom did her thing (hair, groceries) on her own. That was good because I didn't wake up until noon. The Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe was nearly starved to death, according to her, by the time I got up.

One night last week I hung out with my boss' executive assistant, a real fun lady named Lou, until 11. We had dinner at a nearby restaurant which sort of re-piqued my interest in good cooking. So tonight made a pasta dinner from scratch. Love cooking....it's kind of soul-satisfying. Did want to cheat (use bottled sauce) but didn't have the one I wanted/needed so had to do another kind of sauce. Am getting hungry again just thinking of it.

Do any of you use those scented oil things? Do they work? Mine sure didn't. Put them all in a set of plastic bags and stowed them. Went back to the plug-in things. The plastic bags smell nice lol.....

Confidence is coming back. Just got overwhelmed (do NOT like this manager stuff but oh well). Tomorrow will do movie and dinner (with Mom of course). Back to the routine. Miss Smoke (Most Spoiled Cat In The Universe) bullied me into giving her two dinners. She tried just licking the sauce off of one dinner and then started nagging me for another dinner. THAT was going to far and didn't work.

Man some people's (four footed) children!!

Little Bro called Mom tonight. Told her that he is definitely not suicidal. To a 77 year old, those are not great words to hear. Not to my 53 year old ears either.

Little Bro is married to the meanest woman I've ever met, other than her mother. Her twin brother was murdered in Africa about 15 years ago. He was a lawyer and engineer. Right after that, she, her mom and (late) father used to plan how they'd kill themselves. They.are.nuts. LB proposed to her about that time. I thought that he could pull her out of the nonsense her parents were in. I was wrong. She's become angrier and meaner ever second since her bro died and her mother just went even crazier than she was in the first place.

Her mom brought her bro's pictures to their wedding, their daughter's first Holy Communion, etc. in a large brown paper grocery bag and spent her time at the receptions for all these events travelling from stranger to stranger, showing them her photos. It's sad, except for the violence and depth of hatred that these folks have, mostly for LB, me, my Mom--in fact the whole family, because we're close. LB isn't allowed to talk to us or visit. Like I said, NUTS!! They managed to save about $800K among them, I suspect with her dead bro's assets, and to them this is a very important thing (money). They hate Halloween, Christmas (for the idea of giving away things)...parties....just about any joyful event. Sort of like extra-terrestrials from a very angry planet. Didn't get better with time. Got worse. Any time any of us ate at their house, we got sick. I mean violently, just-barely-got-home-in-time sick. We all gave up (a) eating and (b) going over there. Was too hard being yelled at, insulted and poisoned at the same time. Had better things to do. Every once in a while, my SIL will call my Mom at 5 or so in the morning and yell at her. Why? Beats us. I threatened them with police and Bell charges against harassment. That seemed to stop things at least until now. I love my niece and nephew, but they are at an age where they can find me if need be. And I'm positive that day's coming.

LB is going to Montreal (where his MIL lives) this weekend. He wanted my Mom to know that if anything happens to him, it isn't suicide. OMG. I hope it'll be OK. Think he is insane for living--can you imagine sleeping?--with someone who obviously means him harm. Hopefully they are close to breaking up. Their two kids will be in therapy for years, can see that right now.

When the movie "The Whole 9 Yards" came out, Mom and I went to see it and cracked up laughing. The wife's name is the same as LB's, her attitude and that of her mom are the same as the ones in the movie. And the film's set in Montreal. Hope real life imitates art in this case. The wife took off and eventually went to jail.

OK enough of that. If I think about that too much won't be able to sleep. Reads like a bad movie, except it's real.

Gotta go look for jokes for you guys.

Have a wonderful tomorrow, world. ((((hugs)))) Bridg