Thursday, December 3, 2009

Speaking of BIG Companies



Comcast to buy controlling stake in NBC Universal

"Comcast Corp. announced Thursday it plans to buy a majority stake in NBC Universal for $13.75 billion, giving the nation's largest cable TV operator control of the Peacock network, an array of cable channels and a major movie studio.
Although the deal could mean that movies could reach cable more quickly after showing in theaters, and that TV shows could appear faster on cell phones and other devices, it was already raising concerns that Comcast would wield too much power over entertainment. TV shows could appear on mobile phones and other devices faster as part of Comcast's plans to let viewers watch programs wherever they want. Comcast already is letting subscribers watch cable TV shows online in trials, with a nationwide launch in December." Comcast to buy controlling stake in NBC Universal

149 comments:

Anonymous said...

Rather than give my second hand opinion, decided to just quote some of the facts. It's surprising how much influence a few large corporations have over us, especially when it gets into the field of communication.

Anonymous said...

Information on that NBC picture I downloaded, summarizes that this means that the biggest U.S. cable TV provider would control the NBC and Telemundo networks, about two dozen cable channels and the Universal movie studio and theme parks.

Anonymous said...

"I would love to hear more about Emma and what she is doing these days? I see a lot of little ones her age and do developmental screening."

Hi Jan. Emma is doing great! It's so sweet of you to ask.

She is now 10 1/2 months old, and has finally
cut 4 teeth in the last few weeks. She's happy, active ,talkative, and plays well with her toys. She's been crawling well for a few months now, and stands and walks around furniture, as well as anything or anyone else she can hang on to and climb up.

I'm still having the same problem getting her to eat much though. There are a few things she seems to like, but at times doesn't even want them. I've tried to sit her down to eat, when she should be hungry, but by that point, she's wining for a bottle and is even more reluctant to eat.

She was 16 lbs, 8 ou. last time I took her in (a couple of weeks ago), and the doctor wanted her to move up on the weight chart, because she's at the bottom now. But she's actually chubby. She drinks 32 ou. of formula a day still, and definitely prefers that to food. One thing she really loves though is to take sips of my fruit shakes.

I'm getting slightly frustrated that I've not been successful in interesting her in a larger variety of foods in the amounts she's supposed to be eating. I can always get her to take a few bites, but she really only likes a handful of different foods. I don't want to 'create' an eating problem, by getting pushy or anxious about feedings, so I'm trying to play it cool.

I'm thinking maybe I should just start feeding her the same foods that I know for sure she likes, over and over. Ex. Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas and carrots, avocado, yogurt, a partial saltine cracker (a half is all she'll eat). There are times though she even shows little interest in those. She doesn't like the baby cereals, but likes fresh banana and melons, but in amazingly small amounts.

Her formula is Similac senstivie RS. If someone had told me they had this problem with their baby or child in the past, I would have said 'There's always something they'll eat'. And I do find things, but she eats so little.

You know Jan, Emma is a healthy, happy baby and I wasn't worried at all until the doctors response at her 9 month checkup. We were finished with the exam and everything was fine, but I asked them about her where her weight fell on the chart. So they checked it and then made a fairly big deal that she was so low on it, when she was in the middle of it earlier. She's never lost weight, always gains a little, and I figured that was normal for her. I've just been a little neurotic about it since that doctors visit.

Any ideas??

Anonymous said...

Ivy, I looked up Don's Type A vs. Type B personality. I remember reading about it in the past, but needed a refresher course on it. It reminds me a little of when we were discussing Introvert vs. Extrovert:

"The Type A and Type B personality theory is a personality type theory that describes a pattern of behaviors that were once considered to be a risk factor for coronary heart disease. Since its inception in the 1950s, the theory has been widely popularized and also widely criticized for its scientific shortcomings.

"Type A can be described as impatient, time-conscious, concerned about their status, highly competitive, ambitious, business-like, aggressive, having difficulty relaxing; and are sometimes disliked by individuals with Type B personalities for the way that they're always rushing.[1] They are often high-achieving workaholics who multi-task, drive themselves with deadlines, and are unhappy about delays. Because of these characteristics, Type A individuals are often described as "stress junkies."

Type B individuals, in contrast, are described as patient, relaxed, and easy-going, generally lacking any sense of urgency. Because of these characteristics, Type "B individuals are often described as apathetic and disengaged. There is also a Type AB mixed profile for people who cannot be clearly categorized.

In his 1996 book, Type A Behavior: Its Diagnosis and Treatment, Meyer Friedman suggests that Type A behavior is expressed in three major symptoms. One of these symptoms is believed to be covert and therefore less observable, whereas the other two are more overt."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_A_personality
Type A and Type B personality theory

Anonymous said...

Ok, The blog hog has to get to work now.

Solar said...

Your not a blog hog, just as excuse.! Glad that M is doing fine. Don't worry to much about her wieght if everything else is doing just fine, by the dr's.

I believe that Com-cast is after the Spanish speaking audience more than anything else...they already have a lot of the actor's and actress's doing commercials...and when I watch a little tv with my Mom..they even have products..that are shown, and talked about in the programs...they showed a large palmolive jar the other day..the star of the show..was using it; as if instructing how to use it..they showed the label very openly for a long time..same with other products...big time advertising going on with the Spanish stars...

Solar said...

IM an ABC personality...and just fine with it....it's when my xyz type takes over that im afraid of...they often..never mind...

jan said...

Chloe, I hear your concern about Emma's eating pattern and weight. I would ask your pediatrician to recommend a nutritionist. It is funny how the docs tend not to do that.I work with Early Head Start families and when we have a little one whose weight is not keeping up with their growth curve, we always get a nutritionist involved. Actually, I would insist to the pediatrician that you want a referral to a nutritionist. There are definitely things you can do to get her back on track on her own growth curve. One thing is when she is hungry and wants a bottle, give her some solid foods first. Also, most pediatricians are not recommending juices any longer - but to just give them the fruits. I will look for the newest recommendations and send you the links.

jan said...

Chloe, one other thing. Babies do have very little stomach capacity compared to adults. Have you tried feeding her some solid foods about every 2-3 hours.
The foods she likes are great - she likes healthy foods - sweet potatoes and peas and carrots and your fruit shakes are great.
The other question is how big are her parents? if they are pretty small in stature and weight, it is probably genetic that she is small.

Anonymous said...

I think I heard something about Viacom being interested in NBC, which would have meant more real content. I'm not sure what the fallout with Comcast buying NBC will be. Somehow I think as there is less competition there's less freedom of choice.

I think Type A and Type B have many other names, but those are popular.

They've found that they both get the same amount of work done, just in different ways, the old hare and tortoise.

The stress isn't always bad. There's good, active stress and then there's frustrating stress. Frustrating stress is what's bad for your heart.

I like to think of Type 'A's as adrenaline junkies.

The funny thing is that I was very type a, then slowed down when I moved to San Luis Obispo, SLO county. :)

jan said...

Chloe, I looked online for information and I trust WIC (Women,Infants & Children) nutrition info better than any other source. Here is a link that I think is the one of the best I looked at. I have some printed info that I can send you if you want to send me your mailing address in an e-mail. I attended an international conference on young children and there was a great presentation on feeding young children that I would be happy to copy and send to you. Sorry but I still have not worked on making a link blue so you can just click on it.
http://www.phfewic.org/TrainingMaterials/OlderInfantTrainingModule2009.pdf

jan said...

I too have been a Type A - but in the past 10-15 years have had to learn to de-stress. I lowered my own expectations of myself. I started going/coming home for lunch and a brief rest or nap and when I begin to feel stressed about job or whatever, I just tell myself "This is not that important and I will probably not remember it a year from now." John meditates but I find that a 2 mile walk works better for me. If the weather is bad we have a treadmill downstairs. I use it often. I love to swim but have not been lately.

jan said...

Chloe, one last thing. Emma is right on track with her development milestones. She is a beautiful baby. She is lucky to have such a wonderful person who loves and cares for her like you do.

Anonymous said...

I thought babies were like Republicans, it just takes a while to get used to new things. Like foods and the 21st century. :^)

Ok, I had to throw in a little politics.

Anonymous said...

Jan, Thank you so much for all the information and support you provided regarding Emma. I'll ask her doctor to recommend a nutritionist - I never would have even thought of that. Also, please do send me that information you were talking about, if it's not too much trouble.

Jan, I've really been enjoying your posts and comments. They're always so upbeat and inspiring. And again, I appreciate all the information.

Anonymous said...

"I had to throw in a little politics."

LOL Don!, about Republicans taking a while to get used to new foods and the 21st century.

Also, I think this is right on: "I think as there is less competition there's less freedom of choice." An important point.

Anonymous said...

"I believe that Com-cast is after the Spanish speaking audience more than anything else"

I'm sure you're right Solar. But I also think they're after everyone else too. Everyone (including Comcast) wants to be 'King of the World!' (... not just James Cameron:)

And OK Mr. A through Z personality, control xyz a little better, before it does take over!

Anonymous said...

Oh, and Carol, I don't know if this is even interesting to you, but you did show a lot of interest in Kindle for a while, so that's why I'm mentioning it again. I just found out you can download Kindle books on your iphone, as well as what I mentioned before about downloading it on your computer. A good way to get your hands on a book fast, without putting out the money for a Kindle. Just check it out at Amazon, if you're interested.

Solar said...

I didn't say that I was an A thru Z personality..I said that ....I don't know what I said...but U better eat some of M's carrots.....

Solar said...

Chloe,

Your post is a little of what I have been talking about....the Greed of large corps..

There is only a small group of people that own the communications industry..tv, cable, radio. News papers etc.

The laws passed by congress is what allows them to be conglomerates and push their political views on the public without them even knowing it.

I don't have any problem with them making billions of dollars..just the way that they make it..sort of slight of hand.

Then they make a lot of donations to small type politicians..to help the advance their political careers..ala-Obama...they are in touch with the Democratic, DNC, or the Republican RNC. and they do the guidance that is needed in order for that individual to be successful,and to be able to help them...the politician sees his political aspirations advance..along with the ability to get ahead..his family is taken good care of..b/c he is playing ball with those that help him....

These are just long time investments for the corps..but when they have someone that is very talented..they spend a lot of money to get them into the right positions to pass laws..laws that benefit them as a whole group,or just for one particular industry..(like Banking..or Insurance)

When they get to the state level..they are already beholding to the large corps that helped them ..and helped their families...they keep out of trouble mostly..and get a voting record, that seems to be what their constituents want..or need..they are told how to vote, and are carefully notching out a political personality..but only in the obvious...they are really doing what the corps and the political party's want them to do,on major issues...they are being groomed for the big leagues:

now when they run for government office as congress or senators..they are already familiar with how things are run..very few of them come in a Al Franken did..on his own..that's what makes him able to buck the system...his was not paid by the large corps to do what they want them to..

At the same time..the large corps have lobbyist that have huge amounts of money that can be given to these politicians in order to get them to pass laws...

Solar said...

I did not want to post that yet...there is a ghost on the blog..a very mischievous one at that.....

jan said...

We use ComCast for our internet, TV & now our land line. We bundled that just a couple of weeks ago. John wanted to do that - the rates are pretty good for a year and then they will go up. Somehow it just seems like a "monopoly"
We could go with other groups for any or all of these, but right now ComCast offers the best price.

Anonymous said...

I wouldn't mind large corporations as much if you didn't have to buy access to your politicians. I know several small businesses that have tried to get appointments with their senator. They've been told to hire a lobbyist, the senators don't meet with the common people.

Our new junior senator from NC was recently at a breakfast where the buy-in if you wanted to go and speak with here was $33k.

Ivy Green said...

I'm back from the great C-scope Adventure, eating my first solid food in days. You guessed it, Thanksgiving leftovers. I guess everything "came out well." I confessed the Celebrex as well as the Brussels sprouts. No one seemed shocked or concerned at my revelations. I was pretty much alert during the procedure...kept wait for sleep to overtake me, but it never did. So now it's over and I don't have to worry about it for another five years. Although this last five years felt like only about two. Time does seem to be speeding up.

Solar said...

Don,

Not against big business as they were meant to be....but not how they are now.!! The very first thing that we need....is campaign finance reform. If there was air time; the same amount to all...we would not keep getting the crooks that are from the corps...

Anonymous said...

Ivy,
I'm glad everything 'came out' alright. I didn't think the celebrex would be an issue, it might have even helped.

Solar, if Citizens United wins their Supreme Court appeal that will give corporations almost full citizenship. If that happens we'll go back to a feudalism with citizens indentured to the credit card banks and corporations controlling their kingdoms.

Solar said...

Don,

I had forgot all about that, thanks...Im defending Ronn Paul over at tm..he was called a nut..and so was any one that liked him....he is fun to talk about...what is it they say...as long as im talked about..doesn't matter what is said....I didn't put quotation marks...cos that was not even close...

Anonymous said...

Ron Paul was on MSNBC this morning. In financial circles Paul is getting a lot of respect. I'll listen to him over anyone at TM on financial matters. :)

Lots of whining, moaning, and hand wringing seems to be going on over there, I've decided to stay away.

Solar said...

I have too, but depending on what the thread is about...and what is being talked about...

There is so much Palin bashing that I can take; I don't care about her...but that is a non-conversation to me....not going anywhere.!!

I said the same about R.P. but will use that line..cos it is short and to the point..about msnbc...don't watch it...thanks

Anonymous said...

Dylan Radigan has a show in the mornings, that's where I saw him. Dylan was a CNBC financial host that came across. He doesn't seem to have a left or right agenda, but a people's agenda.

Solar said...

thanks Don.

Anonymous said...

I haven't read all the posts yet, and may not be able to for a while, but I did see yours Ivy, that you're doing just fine. I'm glad it went well for you, and that you don't have to worry about it for another 5 yrs.

Carol, Our weather report did change a little here. It now says 25 tomorrow night. Get this: Tomorrow: Cloudy with rain and snow in the morning, becoming all snow in the afternoon. Some sleet may mix in. High 38F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. 1 to 2 inches of snow expected." Hi 38 Low 25

Burrrrr.....

jan said...

Ivy, so glad you got your procedure over with. Since you were awake, did you feel anything? Bon Appetite! - as Julia would say. I agree, that 5 years goes awfully fast.

Chloe, it has been cold here all day. Our high is supposed to be 33 today. We had a little snow this am. It will warm up during the weekend to the 40's.

Anonymous said...

"Your post is a little of what I have been talking about....the Greed of large corps.."

Solar, That's one of the reasons I posted it, I knew it was a good example of what you've been talking about. Plus, it can be argued that the communications industry has more influence over us, than just about anyone else. Like you said, they can then go on to 'buy' politicians.

"... it just seems like a "monopoly"

And Jan, I agree with what you said too. It seems like it would be illegal to get that big and have that much control over communication.

Anonymous said...

Jan, You're probably a little more used to cold weather than we are here (is that right?). Actually, I'm not sure what your weather is like in New Mexico, but I figure you're at a pretty high elevation.

This weather is a once every blue moon sort of thing here.

jan said...

Phoenix sounds good now.

Rented another movie for tonight, "Maiden Heist" - saw the previews on last night's movie and looked good. I will let you know how it is.

jan said...

Chloe, it is colder here than around Houston - for sure. It does warm up in the afternoons to 50's or 60's in the winter. We are having a cold snap here now. Nights are always cold in winter - down to 20's or 30's. Albuq is in a valley so we are sort of protected. I can handle those temps ok.

jan said...

Albuq is in what is called a "high desert" so it does get cold - but we have sunshine about 360 days of the year.

Anonymous said...

"We use ComCast for our internet, TV & now our land line. We bundled that just a couple of weeks ago. John wanted to do that - the rates are pretty good for a year and then they will go up. Somehow it just seems like a "monopoly""

Jan, We always try to just go with the one with the best price too. But we have Directv for our satellite channels, and it does seem very expensive. We have At&T for our land line and internet, and it is so fast, I don't want to change. The price seems reasonable on it.

Then we have Sprint for our cells, plus a travel connection for internet. It just seems crazy to have to deal with so many different companies.

Anonymous said...

... but, I 'don't' want them to combine. Ha!

Anonymous said...

Jan, The last two years we were in California, we lived in the high desert, and got snow both winters, and lots of sunshine like you. It was pretty there too, because we were next to some mountains. And when it snowed those few times, it was absolutely beautiful. Lots of windows (which I have to have, or I get claustrophobic, or at least I miss seeing out doors), and a great view.

Anonymous said...

I forgot to mention 'lots' of wind. Wind like you'd 'never' see here, or most other places. You couldn't even open a car door, without having the contents of your car all fly out the window. Never seen anything like it.

Anonymous said...

Oooh, I didn't realize you lived in a Valley. That's why it's so beautiful there.

Anonymous said...

Victorville? I lived in Devore, and used to laugh hysterically because the CHP would escort cars through because there was 1" of now on the road.

Solar said...

U have the same clothes on that kid...will change her once in a while???

Your post is interesting..on many levels...if you start at the bottom level. you can see where big corps groom politicians...when the are young and needy..not like the new Sen. Al Franken...he did it on his own...and now doesn't owe anyone....

Carol said...

Interesting post Chloe. Just let me know what I need to do. Buy stock or what?

I'm sure glad your procedure is over Ivy. I was waiting to exhale. No one wanted to inhale until it was over. Now you can start loading up your colon again, lots of free space.

Chloe, in thinking of little Em, do you like and eat lots of different foods? What are your favorite foods. Like Jan said, she does seem to like healthy foods.

Carol said...

And Chloe, it sounds like you might get more snow that we will. I heard our weather guy say Houston is expecting 4 inches???

You'll get the weather before we will. I hope the weather holds out until after 9p tomorrow since I gotta go out to meet some friends/family for supper for my SF birthday. I don't want to be out driving around if it's snowing. This ain't snow country.

Carol said...

And good news. I heard on the radio this morning that La. is making a deal with China to sell them some of our Nutra Rats. They think they are a delicacy. Hey, we might have even had something to do with it. There might have been a lurker from China visiting when we linked those yummy Nutra recipes here.

jan said...

I hate to drive in bad weather. I will stay home if I know the weather is going to be bad - whether its snow or a hard rain. I got caught in a blizzard in Montana once and developed a phobic reaction to snow and driving. I am fine in snow if I am home - but if I am out on the road and it starts snowing, I get a full-blown anxiety attack.

jan said...

When we were driving through Amarillo last Sunday and it was snowing - really not that bad and John was driving too- my heart rate went up and I was shaking all over. It was not at all rational - but anxiety attacks are not rational.

jan said...

I don't know about China, but I noticed someone from Japan is tuned in to this frequency.

Carol said...

Coreen, did you get caught up in some of your yarn? Should be send you some help?

jan said...

Chloe, one of the things I like about living here is that there are no hurricanes and have not heard of a tornado here - not heard of earthquakes either. We do have the problems with fire if it gets too dry in the summer - but hey that can happen anywhere.

It is windy on occasion, but not too often. I don't like wind either. Coming through the western part of OK and the Texas panhandle, what little trees they have are all bent in one direction from the heavy winds - I wish my camera had been charged. If you have ever driven I-40 through there - you know what I mean.

jan said...

Isn't it funny about communication. It hasn't been that long ago that we only had phones that were connected to a long cord, no internet and no faxing. Phone books and phone booths are almost unnecessary now. I was in a nice older hotel recently and they had this nice room with a pay phone and I never saw any one in there. All that room going to waste. I recycled all my phone books the other day. It gave me some extra space.

Solar said...

Shhheesh...Pinks and little cold...sheesh...pinks and a little snow...flurries yet...Mama Mia.!!

Coreen said...

Hi guys, Not AWOL...

Will catch up shortly, last night had not a thing that I could possibly add to the discussion, except now I really won't schedule any checkups...knew I couldn't possibly drink that stuff....

Glad you made it through Ivy, here they call
the almost sleep mode they put you in 'twilight' one of my friends just had the
procedure last month & she said you are sort
of awake, but not....& you have no idea what
happened...(which in itself is enough for me
to say no way) That control thing....

Just back from the Mohegan Sun Casino, we went on a whim, took some pics of the 'holiday decorations' & broke even, my friend actually wound up winning about $300....About to preview
the pics to see what I managed to capture...

Back soon.

Carol said...

Solar, how long have you been living up in the big C area? Where did you live before that?

Carol said...

Tiger has gotten more media coverage for his other sports than he has for his golf. I guess a hole in three beats a hole in one.

Anonymous said...

I hear Tiger is going to be changing his name to Lion Cheetah.

Carol said...

Good one Don.

Anonymous said...

"in thinking of little Em, do you like and eat lots of different foods?"

Yes I do Carol. And I've even started cooking a lot again, because I know the importance of it as she's growing up. I don't try to give her only healthy food, it just seems that those things I mentioned are her favorites. I basically offer her everything.

One of the problems is that she still drinks 32 oz of formula a day. Plus, her teeth are still very tiny, just barely through, and there's only 4. The reason she's on a sensitive formula, is that her esophagus wasn't completely developed (common though), so she had a lot of reflux. She chokes easily, so I also have to be careful of that, plus she doesn't like lumpy food yet.

She still takes lots of small bottles and meals, maybe because her stomach capacity is still pretty small. I like lots of small meals too, so it works out.

Anonymous said...

Carol, Did you see what Solar said? He thinks we have a friendly blog ghost here. A mischievous one. He may be right.

Anonymous said...

"Chloe, one of the things I like about living here is that there are no hurricanes and have not heard of a tornado here - not heard of earthquakes either."

Jan, We had a few big earthquakes when we lived in S. Ca. You get so used to the idea though, that you becomes desensitized to them. We're too far north of the gulf to worry too much about hurricanes, but we do get the bad weather from them, as witnessed during Ike. We've never had a tornado through here (knock on wood) though.

The winds where we lived in Quartz Hill were horrendous. I really hated them, and it was windy almost every day, morning to night. I don't do well in a dry climate, and it was as dry as it could get there.

Anonymous said...

Solar says I'm not a blog hog, so I'll make one more comment:

"It hasn't been that long ago that we only had phones that were connected to a long cord, no internet and no faxing."

I'm so glad to be part of the new electronics era Jan. I've thought about those things you just said, and it's amazing to think how quickly things have changed. I'm like a kid with all these new products they keep bringing out on the market - I just love all the goodies.

Carol said...

Chloe, since you will get the weather before me, you will have to let me know what's happening. Looking forward to something different.

Anonymous said...

Ok Carol, I'll keep you posted. Probably a lot of it will happen while you're at work tomorrow though. Although it's tomorrow night when it get's really cold, so I can let you know if it's as bad as they say it will be. I just hope we don't lose power. I'll have to go sit in the car to charge my laptop, if that happens. I have a little converter hooked up to the cigarette lighter.

Our generator will only keep a few things going, and if we lose power, it's going to get cold.

Anonymous said...

"Victorville? I lived in Devore"

Don, We were in Quartz Hill (part of Palmdale). But only for a couple of years. We got an unusual few inches of snow for a few days, each of those two winters we lived there. Before that, we lived in Simi Valley for 15 yrs.

Carol said...

I don't think it will get cold enough for any electrical problems Chloe. Even with 40s here, I'm cold because I don't particularly care for the 50s inside. Tonight I've gotten it up to a toasty 63. Almost need to take off some clothes.

Anonymous said...

Funny, I worked at Micom on Los Angeles and Lost Canyon. Was there for the Northridge quake. That one got my attention. If you ever went to Trinity Lutheran you might have seen me.

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear you've gotten it warmer in there Carol.

The reason I mentioned a power outage, is in case we get ice rain instead of snow. What happens out here, is when we get ice rain, it breaks off branches, that fall onto the power lines. Quite common for us. If it's widespread, then the power can be down for days. Snow will cause a lot less problems than ice rain.

Our forecast says rain and snow. Since it'll be 25 tomorrow not (supposedly), I'm just dreading the idea of it turning into ice rain. Although, it's only that cold for a night, so it probably won't happen.

Anonymous said...

I remember that Northridge quake Don. I was trying to figure out when it was, and it was in '94 (I looked it up to make sure). We left California in '93. Northridge Earthquake

Solar said...

Chloe, U need to talk more not less.!

Solar said...

You, and Coreen, Coreen, The dancing machine....

Solar said...

Don, thanks for the back-up about R.P. they don't know shit about him..but put him down all of the time...so I started it today...I couldn't takes it any longer.!!

Anonymous said...

I lived in Simi 90 - 94, left the summer after the quake. People would ask me if I was moving because of the quake and I'd say "what, to San Francisco?".

I was headed out for gold country, the new Internet frontier.

Ice rain in NC too. Nothing like going out and chipping off the sidewalk.

Anonymous said...

You're the one that needs to talk more Solar. Do you think we're doing too much wining about a little cold weather? I don't hear you complaining about the weather, ever.

... except maybe when you were out shoveling snow last winter. I remember when you were helping the neighbors shovel theirs, and having snow fights with the kids, and were sore fore a few days afterward. Do you remember that last year?

Anonymous said...

whining, not wining. Ha!

Anonymous said...

We lived in Simi from early '75 until late '89 Don. A great place to raise kids.

Ivy Green said...

Hi Guys,
Couple of you asked about my experience today with the C-scope. The worst part really was the awful yuk they make you drink. There's got to be an easier way. I know about the pill Don had mentioned, and I'd asked about it last time, and got a "No." Didn't pose the question this time because I didn't realize I would not be able to use the Fleet Phospho-Soda that was tolerable last time, but has since been taken off the market. Would that have made a difference? Maybe. In my lack-of-sleep delirium this morning, as I projected being sent home today sans procedure for violating the dietary rules, I determined that I would not be willing to reschedule if I had to consume the gallon of yuk again.

Fortunately, my fears were unwarranted as person after person waived away my "Rime of the Ancient Mariner-like" confessions of my transgressions.

Was I in "twilight" sleep? And did I "feel anything?" No and yes. After leaving me on the table for 20 minutes, I think they were running behind (pun intended) and needed to get on with it. So it was a quick insertion of the IV, and then I heard "Dr. Peter" exclaim "we gotta get started." My inner person was yelling, "What?!? I'm awake, you fool." But there we were, I didn't feel anything except I could see the procedure on the monitor. Once I had a "sensation" that made me think, oh crap, I need to be asleep. Recalling the sensation now, I realize it was no worse than those once-familiar monthly cramps, and certainly not as terrifying as the time I had food poisoning and was afraid I WOULDN'T die.

So I came home and slept it off, woke up at 4 pm and realized, hey, I never had my coffee this morning. It's never to late start your day over.

Solar said...

Chloe,

I pretty much don't care what it is doing outside...I do like Autumn my favorite time of the year..but I just do what I have to do....and not worry about what I can't control...

Been in some hairy spots in emergencies...those weren't any fun...but I never think about them....there was this time that I had to walk a few miles in the freezing cold..in Wisconsin. it was because....naw ...you don't want to hear it...

Little Emma looks like paul the Bunyan with that hat..

Solar said...

Chloe,

If it helps...we had flurries today. it was the first time...as for those snow ball fights...there is this one kid..he's about 15-16 im going to ambush him when the first snows come...he got me good last year...just kidding..I like him..he is always stopping by to see if we can talk..play a little B. ball..say's that Im an old foggy with good moves....

Anonymous said...

Glad it went well Ivy. If you report no problems for the next 3 times, I might even try it. Doubt it though. I don't have much faith in doctors. My plan is to drink enough wine (not whine) that it keeps the ugly buggers killed off.

np Solar, though you looked like you were doing well. I'm definitely seeing an increase in confidence, even if it's because you're mad. Hope to see more.

Nice quote from Washington.

The papers would refuse to report Paul's primary successes, reporting first, second, and fourth so they wouldn't have to report Paul coming in third and beating Giuliani.

When asked about this Newsweek's Jon Meacham flat refused to answer the question posed by Jon Stewart. I guess the media isn't answerable to anyone.

Solar said...

Im just teasing you-u-know...Emma couldn't be any cuter.!!

jan said...

"So I came home and slept it off, woke up at 4 pm and realized, hey, I never had my coffee this morning. It's never to late start your day over."

Ivy, you could say, "the best part is waking up - with Folgers in your cup."


Ivy, Actually, the best part is knowing it is over for a few years. So glad you got through it ok. I don't remember anything. I think I got Versed. It doesn't take much to put me out - half a beer will do.

Carol said...

What was the question Stewart asked Meacham Don?

Solar said...

I like this quote; and took my time editing..should do it more often....naw....

The religious views of the founding fathers are of great interest to propagandist of today, anxious to push their version of history. Contrary to their view, t he fact that the United States was not founded as a Christian nation was early stated in the terms of a treaty with Tripoli, handcrafted in 1796 under George Washington and signed by John Adams in 1797:

" As the Discernment of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion, or tranquility, of Mussel men; and as the said States never have entered into any war or act of hostility against any Mehomitan nation, it is declared by the parties that no pretext arising from religious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries."

jan said...

Chloe, we had a lot of those ice storms in Ark too. They are worse than snow storms. My son and D-I-L live in southeast Ark and they have had ice storms there that knocks out electricity and they don't get it back for a week or more.

Anonymous said...

"Little Emma looks like paul the Bunyan with that hat.."

Needless to say she doesn't wear that hat often here. Not that cold. I'm anxious for her hair to grow in a little better, but she's a slow starter with hair and teeth.

Actually, I'm learning to accept things more too Solar: those things I can't change, like the weather. You inspired me to work on it. In doing so, I find the winter is bothering me a lot less. These occasional bad cold fronts are more of a challenge than anything else, and fun to talk about, to tell the truth. Nature vs. Man.

Anonymous said...

I've heard about those storms in Arkansas. I've never been there, but one of these days it would be nice to take a drive through there. It's really beautiful there, isn't it?

It's got to be a nice place. After all, Bill Clinton is form there. :)

Anonymous said...

Ivy, weren't you unbelievably hungry though? After your procedure.

jan said...

Chloe, I just read your response to Carol and that Emma has or had reflux. She probably knows very well how much she can eat without having a problem. It sounds like you and she are doing great.

John has developed GERD (gastroeshophageal reflux) and has had to cut down the amount he eats at one time. He was coughing really bad and had a pet scan b/c he was worried about lung cancer (he has never smoked). After getting on the internet he decided he had GERD - his doc agrees. He is taking prilosec daily and has changed his eating habits drastically and it has almost stopped his coughing. He gave up all caffeine too.

Anonymous said...

Carol, Jon asked why the media wouldn't report that Ron Paul was beating Rudy Giuliani in the primaries.

If you get a chance, go see the Hot Springs area of Arkansas. It's beautiful. The state also runs an open pit diamond mine where anyone can come and dig for diamonds. You get to keep what you find.

Solar said...

Ivy, my experience was exactly the same...I even watched it on the screen for a little while..before I went under....didn't you get a little brown paper bag filled with goodies?

Coreen said...

Ok, back to today's topics, so far...

As far as Comcast buying majority stake in NBC,
if it gets GE stock back up where it was before
the world collapsed,(or higher) Amen! that would make me very happpy, barring that it probably doesn't change my viewing of tv...

Type A, Type B, in all likelihood aren't we
all more of a blend of both....

And for you psychology buffs, here's one that
always makes me wonder...Tiger Woods, John Edwards, all these high profile guys, never
surprised when they get caught...but don't understand how they think they won't get caught...

What accounts for their (what I consider) sheer
stupidity???

Solar said...

Coreen,

They want to get caught..so they can be forced on to the next move that they want to do...they want to get shit canned...down deep inside..selfish...

Ivy Green said...

Chloe,
I wasn't ravenous, but I did have a headache which was likely due to food deprivation. I felt very dehydrated and still am a bit thirsty. A little light-headed, so I'm glad I heeded the warnings to neither drink nor drive.

Anonymous said...

I gave up most caffeine too Jan, like John. And I have to take zantac morning and night. Emma has gotten beyond that reflex problem though. But she does gag easily, and acts like lumpy stuff gets caught in her throat. I don't know if it's a preference or a problem.

You know Jan, you mentioned almonds yesterday, and it reminded me that I haven't been eating them as much. I've been loving cashews lately. But anyway, I got her some almond spread, and she seems to love it (although she just eats a little). She also likes peanut butter, and likes several bites of that or a little on some crust bread (although the bread doesn't really get swallowed, just the pnut butter).

Anonymous said...

Ivy, drink lots of liquids. Dehydration is dangerous.

jan said...

Chloe, I am doing much the same as you - I have decided there are some things we can't change. When the weather is bad, I figure it gives me a chance to stay in and relax and do things I enjoy around the house.

I really love Arkansas too. The northwest part of the state is beautiful with mountains and forests. The central part of the state is rolling hills -more humid and warmer and much like the Southest.

A lot of people think of Arkansas folks as backward but there are many colleges and universities in Ark. There is a medical school in Little Rock and 2 law schools, one at the Univ of Ark in Fayetteville and one in Little Rock. The Fulbright Scholarship was started by Senator William Fulbright who was from Arkansas. And of course, as you mentioned, Bill Clinton is from Ark.

Solar said...

Hey,

U just can't break in here and just start asking questions after being gone for a whole week...

jan said...

Chloe, I think you feed Emma very well. She sounds cautious.

Coreen said...

Think Jan mentioned Dan Brown's book Angels & Demons, which actually was written before
the Davinci Code...I read both, enjoyed both,
Angels & Demons was much more ruthless as far
as the portrayal of the priests/cardinals, pretty graphic ritualistic killings.

Did not really like the Davinci Code movie,
have not seen angels & demons, nor read the
lost symbol yet...

jan said...

Solar, Hey, are you talking to me?

Anonymous said...

I think it's the same with all smart or powerful guys. They think they're too smart to get caught.

I used to see it in the air force all of the time. The really smart guys getting busted for doing stupid stuff, cause they thought they'd never get caught.

Coreen, I brought up the personality types because of the way your attitude affects your health, which really interests me.

Anonymous said...

Jan, I don't think of 'any' states as backward. Putting down people in other states is just another form of prejudice, in my opinion. Arkansas sounds just beautiful.

Coreen said...

Hey, you forget all the time, rememberI can do anything I choose....

And I don't know my answer to the philandering
powerful rich guy syndrome...but it seems
to repeat itself routinely.

Anonymous said...

"attitude affects your health"

Undoubtedly, Don.

jan said...

Coreen, I did not read A & D's but the movie certainly portrayed the priests/cardinals as ruthless.

Coreen said...

Just saw that the President lit the National
Christmas tree that means the GE tree at the
bottom of the hill's lights will be on, I am
planning to get some pics of it this weekend.

The National Tree is done by GE, & at corporate
hq here, there is a replica at the entrance,
decorated the same.... It is a live growing
tree all year round....

Solar said...

Oops Jan, no I was talking to Coreen..but she just let it slide by..like usual...:-)

Anonymous said...

Worst thing about Arkansas, 2/3 of the state is dry. (is there a theme here?)

I hold to the theory we get indigestion because we don't get enough acid, which is why I douse everything in hot sauce. Little funny on ice cream though.

Coreen said...

Don, You guys delve too deeply into things, I
just kind of go with the flow...I try not to
analyze why I do things, might not like what
I would find...but I don't think so (that's
for my dear Solar!!!)

Anonymous said...

"Did not really like the Davinci Code movie,
have not seen angels & demons"

When you read a book you really enjoy a lot, the movie made from it is rarely as enjoyable. If you haven't read the book, it makes the movie easier to like, imo. Because, the book is always so much better than the movie.

jan said...

Solar, now I see where you were going.

Coreen, I too wonder what these men are thinking when they are high profile - and fool around. It is hard to believe that they do not realize that at some point they are going to get caught. I like Bill Clinton, but I put him in there too. They certainly don't learn from their "brethren's" experiences.

Coreen said...

Solar, I knew exactly who you were talking about & did not ignore it.

Look above & you shall find...

"Hey, you forget all the time, remember I can do anything I choose...."

Solar said...

"Coreen, I did not read A & D's but the movie certainly portrayed the priests/cardinals as ruthless."

If you knew the real history of the Popes, and cardinals...the real history...you would never think of religion in the same way again...

Anonymous said...

Chloe, Oklahoma. That's all I'm gonna say.

Anonymous said...

Coreen, I'm just the opposite. I'm more interested in 'why' I do things, than I am in the things I do. Ha!

Mary said...

Ivy,
I'm glad that procedure is over with. Was Hubs there for the doctor to talk to after the procedure in case you didn't remember what he said. You should have told the nurses to have a cup of coffee ready as soon as it was over. I had a colonoscopy about a yr.ago. I slept thru the whole procedure. I told them if they wanted me to wake up, they better have coffee there. They did. My colon was in perfect shape so they said I didn't need another one for 10 yrs.

Anonymous said...

Don! Oklahoma? You've got to elaborate.

Solar said...

Coreen..I just saw it...there are times..when I just post what i have...so not to lose it..we had some ghost happening when you went awol...was that U?

jan said...

Don, how true - 2/3 of the state (ARK) is dry. You can find liquor by just driving to another county. Ark is in the bible belt. Okla is about as bad. The part I don't like about the dry counties is they don't have good restaurants b/c people won't put them in since they can't sell liquor.

Coreen said...

Not me Solar, told you where I was....

Ivy Green said...

Maybe one of the sources of priests' problems is that they are forced to hear the confessions of countless sinners. I can only imaging how garbaged-up my mind might get if I had to do that day-after-day. Maybe the church needs to implement a PCSD (post-confession stress disorder) Program for the fathers.

jan said...

Don, I am from Okla but it is not one of my favorite states -even if it is home.

Anonymous said...

Of all of the states I've traveled through, and I've done a lot, I have absolutely no use for OK.

Coloradans have lots of OK jokes.

I spent a lot of time in Wichita Falls where the only thing we had to do in the evenings was to watch the weather channel and see if funnel clouds were forming.

"Jan, I don't think of 'any' states as backward. Putting down people in other states is just another form of prejudice, in my opinion. Arkansas sounds just beautiful."

Coreen, I'm an engineer, I want to know how everything works. That goes for people as well as clocks.

Anonymous said...

See you all tomorrow.
Carol, I'll keep you informed on what's happening weather wise here.

Ivy Green said...

Mary,
Dr. Peter went to talk to Hubs afterwards. I didn't see him again. He removed two polyps, he said. The five-year recommendation comes from my family history component.

jan said...

As we talk about the famous and powerful men who get caught - it reminds me of one of the theories of adolescense - they think "it won't happen to me" (short version) - maybe these guy's development was arrested in adolescence.

Anonymous said...

I KNEW that was going to happen. Present company excepted Jan <blush>

Did you guys read the report about the cover up in Ireland? 40 plus priests and over 400 children, covered up by bishops, government officials, and the vatican.

Coreen said...

Don, that kind of explains your perspective
about things...Again, I'm from the school that
says just do it.....No sense looking back since
its done.

jan said...

There is probably a good reason why the Government moved so many American Indian tribes to Oklahoma.

Ivy Green said...

Mary,
The nurse brought me a Sprite afterwards, and gave me a refill after I slurped it down quickly. All the nurses were very good and made me feel "safe."

jan said...

Ok, off to watch the rental movie.

Anonymous said...

Oh, I do it Coreen. I'm a real risk taker. I just think about it a lot later. I don't analyze before doing things, I go with gut instinct. Which probably isn't a good thing but it's certainly interesting.

jan said...

Ivy, So glad to hear the nurses treated you well.

Coreen said...

Here in CT, we have our very own catholic priest scandal fiasco...The Diocese of Bpt. after losing in Court battles is releasing some
12,000 pages of priest sex abuse files that
go back sometime.

They have already paid mega$$ to people who
sued.

Coreen said...

Isn't that part of your classic Type A, Don..

Though as I said I really think most of us
are the sum of all traits, not easily defined...

Solar said...

Don,
yes I posted about that for a cpl of days; I went on since the 30's if I remember..and some of the nuns were not faultless huh?

Coreen..yes im a lot like that..I don't look back..but I also like to know how thing come about...or how they developed..

You said a little while ago that you would like to see the life of Jesus unfold...in that book that I posted about...cows, pigs wars, and witches..is the real answer..as real as any that I have found...

Mary said...

Ivy,
The fact that he had to remove polyps also warrants a colonoscopy every 5 yrs.

I agree with you about the PCSD with priests. I converted to Catholicism when my son was young. The one thing I always had a hard time with was confession. In fact the only time I went was when I joined the church. I still believe if I have something to confess, I'll go directly to God and I don't believe I'm sinning for doing that.

Anonymous said...

Yes Coreen, I think we're a mixture, but the types explain the extremes.

I almost got to spend the winter in CT. Yale was looking for someone with my specialty.

I wish the Catholic church would get rid of that stoopid marriage ordinance. It's not biblical and it just attracts very confused people

Coreen said...

I think you would have liked New Haven, don Yale has a central presence there...

Coreen said...

Don, what is that specialty, don't think you
have shared that with us, if you want to say,
if not, forget I asked...

Ivy Green said...

Mary,
Confession can be good for the soul...of the sinner...but what does it do to the priest who has to listen? Garbage in; garbage out. I bet they get no training for that. Their role is little different from that of psychotherapists who get lots of training on "boundaries" and also must have supervision and mentor-ship.

Coreen said...

And it's getting close to my pumpkin time, so
good night for now.

Anonymous said...

So Coreen, ask a question and run off. :) I do web sites Coreen, and a package called Drupal is my specialty. Very popular with universities and washington dc associations.

Whitehouse.gov is now using it too.

Coreen said...

Just checked in before I shut down & saw your
reply Don, so at some point, not tonite, maybe you can explain how websites remain on the internet essentially free.

I'm refering to the generic google search. I
have a website which started in May, & am
amazed that beyond a nominal fee to my host?
person, it is so inexpensive to be visible...

Advertising being such a costly item, when trying to get business. But thats a subject for another day.

Actually am proud of my little website, which
was my content, made into a website by a very capable woman & 'optimized' so I am right up there with the Find Law created sites, which are very expensive to maintain.. if you understand what I am trying to say.

And that I am actually getting clients
from it further amazes me. Never thought that
so many people would use it to look for an attorney.

Anonymous said...

Hi Coreen. What's your web site?

A web site is just some characters on the computer. What you're really paying for is a computer to hold those computers and phone lines to connect it in with everyone that is looking for it. It doesn't matter if that computer holds one web site, or 100.

Google is like a tv show, it's trying to attract an audience so that it can sell those customers to their customers, advertisers. To create that audience they have to deliver really a really good answer to a search question.

So if you have your site set up so that it's really clear what you're selling, and there are people out there looking for that, you have a good chance of connecting. While paid advertising helps, first of all you need to be really clear about what you're selling.

So it sounds like you are clear and have been successful in connecting to people looking for you.

The sites I work on usually have tens or hundreds of thousands of users who are looking for special services. Products, or information, or being able to connect to other people with the same interests. Like teachers, or furniture shoppers, or doctors that prescribe radiation therapy to remote treatment centers. As you can guess my sites have a lot of special code to carry all of this out. That's where it gets expensive.

Does that answer your question?

Carol said...

"Confession can be good for the soul...of the sinner...but what does it do to the priest who has to listen?"

Hey you Catholic, do you have to go into detail with those confessions or do you just categorize them into groups, ie, I porked so many people, ripped off so many, blah, blah, blah? If you have to go into detail, I think it might be a pretty interesting activity.

At work, it gets a little emotionally exhausting to hear all the whiny complaints about health problems but when I get to hear some of the other stuff, it's really interesting. Perks me up. If I were a priest, which I could not be, I'd constantly be saying, "and go on....."

My most interesting so far was the lady who shot her boyfriend while having gun sex. So interesting that she got a no true bill from the Grand Jury. Even his kids came to her defense. Maybe they wanted him out of the way.

No, I'm not giving any confidential info here, that was on the news. I can't tell you anything I heard.