Monday, January 21, 2013

Pics from Christmas





Needing a new post and the only new pics I have are from Christmas.  Hope you will indulge me while I post some from C. dinner. These are my 2 oldest sons and their families and my oldest granddaughter and her family.

187 comments:

Carol said...

Thanks very much Jan. Could you pass me a plate of that food?

Great pics. You still look like I remember you.

Carol said...

Chloe, I like having you there also. We made a good team in the past. I don't want to hurt your feelings but I sometimes think you perceive insult where none was ever really intended. I have the tendency to do the same thing, that is why I understand it.

I think most everyone there loves you but they can't try hard enough to prove that to you. Hey, if someone doesn't like us..so effing what? We don't share a house with them. We just drop in for a visit every now and again. Just ignore them unless you need to make a point, then debate the issue. Your truth is your truth, whatever it is and you have the every right to express it, as much as anyone else there does.

I often like to start with a disclaimer..."I'm just an idiot but here I go anyway" Then I feel like I disarm anyone who wants to tell me they think I am. he he he

Carol said...

And remember that Jefferson said....we were all created equal. I don't buy that but I guess everyone else does because we hear it repeated over and over and over.

I made a comment about that statement over at TM and I can see many of them rolling their eyes. But so effing what?

jan said...

Chloe, I lurk over at TM once in a while and see some of the comments by you and Carol. I think you are both so courageous to share what you think. I don't have an opinion about most things political, but I appreciate what others share.

My dad once told me - "...if you put yourself out there, you will get shot at." Not sure if those were his exact words but you get the meaning.

Carol said...

But those bullets can't hurt us unless we allow them to. We can choose to not let them!

Carol said...

And I think all these blogs would be really boring if we all agreed all the time. You know that we each must represent how someone out there feels. We need to help them out by expressing their opinions.

Carol said...

And I often represent the idiots.

jan said...

You can see from my home that I am not into trendy stuff nor have I used a professional decorator. I value things that are "old" and used by someone before me.

I bought my dining room furniture in Louisiana 40 + years ago from a gentleman who restored older pieces of furniture he bought in the northeastern states. Oak was my favorite wood then. I also love old quilts. The one behind John is one my grandmother made in the 1920's when she was a young woman.

I also dry all my roses that John gives me and so you will see these throughout my home.

What I loved about this house when we bought it 7 years ago were the wood floors throughout and the many windows which give the house lots of natural light. I also loved the openness of the kitchen, and living and dining rooms. I like the house because it is old too. Most of our furniture, except couch and 2 chairs in LR are old and we have had for years. We have twin beds and pieces of furniture that were John's parents. I would not take anything for all these things around us that have traveled with us to many houses and towns. For me, my home is a sanctuary where I can rest and look around me and everywhere I look, there is a memory of someone I love or loved or an event or time that has meaning.

jan said...

Carol and Chloe, sorry that I broke into your conversation with my own little essay.

jan said...

Much of my old furniture also reminds me of Bob and the times when my children were growing up. Some people live in the house they grew up in. If I cannot have the house I grew up in, at least I can re-create my space so that it seems like I am living in the house I grew up in. Hmmm never thought about that before. It is even nice to have memories of Bob. We are still friends.

Carol said...

Dang it Jan, we want your input here. I would like a whole lot more of all of your input. It used to be not so bad that I came here and talked to myself every day. I was so overwhelmed with all the people I had to deal with every day. Now, it's too damn quiet. One reason I hang out on the Trail is to be with other humans. Of course we can't be totally sure they are human.

Carol said...

Jan, I remember those people who you bought that furniture from. The Hartnets or something like that. They lived over there on 3rd Ave not far from my fav tamale place. I bought a beautiful secretary, a side board, and a neat table/chairs. All tiger oak. You also introduced me to them. Dang it, I hated it when you left me here.

Carol said...

And Chloe, another point. When you hear those Republicans talks on TV and some Dems and some pundits have you ever thought..how in the hell did they get to where they are? They have been elected to office to run our government or to critique those who have but some can't think their way outta a paper bag.

jan said...

Carol, take some pics of the furniture you bought from the Hartnets. I would like to see it.

Did you all watch the inauguration this morning. It was inspiring. I do like Obama. Sure, he is not perfect, but who is? I think he IS the president for this time, just as Lincoln WAS the President for that time.

I have learned so much from the book about Lincoln. I wish more people would read it so we could discuss it. I have learned more about American History from this book than I have learned in my lifetime. What a period of time that was in our history. It is so sad at times.

Carol said...

Jan, I think you may have been there when I bought most of those pieces. I love them.

Carol said...

The Secretary is my fav piece. It's has the usual antique desk, with a mirror on top. On one side is a beveled glass five shelf bookcase. I use it to hold a few special nic nacs I have.

The Hartnets picked up that piece in Wisconsin. They had wanted to buy it from this family on one of their traveling/shopping trips but the family wouldn't part with it. The family kept it on a glassed in porch. Years later, the house burned down and that was the only thing that survived the fire. I think of it as being a very lucky piece of furniture. It's at least 100 years old.

Carol said...

Even though all the pieces don't go together, they look like they do. My table closes down to the the size a little larger than a card table but with three leaves it can be large enough to comfortably seat 6 people. I have the original 6 chairs that still have the leather seats but I covered that with some tapestry material to protect it. The side bar is a little ornate and I think it did go with the table and chairs. All have similar wood.

Carol said...

Yes, I did watch Obama's swearing in and I liked his speech. I hope he means it.

jan said...

Carol, I do not remember your furniture. You may have had it when I came back to visit, but don't remember it.

jan said...

I don't think furniture should have to look alike. I think diversity is beautiful.

jan said...

I will start my golightly at 4 pm. They do recommend dulcolax now, but I am not taking it. I think the gol....is enough. I was throroughly cleaned out the other time without the ducolax.

jan said...

I have 2 hrs and 15 min to go. I think I will give Ryley a bath and then my shower. I wash her and then get in shower with her to rinse her off. Then I hand her off to John to dry while I finish my shower.

Carol said...

Jan, I didn't pick the pieces because they looked alike. I still think you may have helped me. You had me doing lots of things I probably wouldn't have if you hadn't been here. I'm not sorry about any of them.

Carol said...

And I wasn't that easily influenced by anyone else and not by everything you did. I was choosy.

jan said...

just gave Ryley a bath and as a consequence, me a shower. I have one hour and 15 min to go before starting golightly. I think I will take my car and wash it. Can you tell I am anxious. Need to keep busy.

Carol said...

And Jan, I can't say that I'm that passionate about politics anymore. It's just that it has sooo much influence on everything else that I am interested in. I can't believe how dumb some of the people are who contribute to that influence and how much they have been screwing things up.

Unknown said...

Jan, I was having such a mixed up time on that ipod, that I didn't even see I was writing on a new post.

I love the pictures!
Sitting there between your sons, you look more like their sister than their move.

I'm always overwhelmed by what a beautiful family you have.

And love see John in that Santa Clause hat. What great fun he must be.

Unknown said...

I don't see how you're going about your day as normal. When I had that prep, I was sick as a dog.

I still feel pretty crappy today, and you may be right about the nerve endings, but I have so meany sore muscles in my upper left back and should as well as in the front, it feels like someone beat me with a baseball bat.

I don't know what to make of it. I sure am tired and plan on going to bed early.

What time do you have to be at the hospital tomorrow? Hope you let us know that the results were good.

Unknown said...

" When you hear those Republicans talks on TV and some Dems and some pundits have you ever thought..how in the hell did they get to where they are? They have been elected to office to run our government or to critique those who have but some can't think their way outta a paper bag."

You can say that again. I never watch, but get more news than I won't on the computer, Carol.

It's downright scarey to think they may be holding our lives in their hands.

Unknown said...

.. and Carol, when you're honest with me, you can never make me mad. What a hypocrite I would be if I were.

I know I am almost always overly sensitive, and often miscomprehended what others are saying (I guess because I have a bias too - we all have different opinions, and stand by them -- and rightly so.

Unknown said...

I don't know if you saw where I wrote that when I'm emotional or mad (for whatever ridiculous reason) tact goes out the window. I'm not proud of that.. it's just an obvious observation.


Conversing with me often takes a lot of forgiving from others.

jan said...

Chloe, sorry you are still in pain. It may be some kind of virus - almost sounds like flu. Best to stay in and take care of yourself.

This is only the 2nd time I have had to do the colonoscopy. I have started drinking the golightly. I am still on the sofa. It usually hits me after the 3rd glass. Just got down the 1st.

jan said...

The procedure is not in the hosp this time but in an outpt setting.

jan said...

I forgot how salty this stuff tastes. I now have my computer and my nook in the bathroom. Not going to be bored.

jan said...

supposed to drink a glass every 15 min. Damnation.

Unknown said...

Jan, I don't follow politics. I just have random opinions about things. I'm sure I am the most least informed person at TM.

When I went there before Hillary ran for president, I did follow that particular election very closely. I ended up there because I was so broken hearted about the misogyny against Hillary, and all the other injustice at that time.

It took years but I'm over it now.

jan said...

Chloe, thanks for lovely comments about my family and me. You too Carol. I always pick the pics that show me in the best light. ha ha.

jan said...

My DIL just sent me a pic she took Christmas of me with the littlest baby. It is really close up and shows all my wrinkles and discolored skin and teeth and the baby has this perfect skin. A real contrast. If I can download it I will post it here. I actually love it.

Carol said...

Jan,I recommend a thick towel for a diaper. No one can see ya. You ought to time how long it takes to hit. That golightly is nasty tasting. I didn't do that one last time. I had something I mixed up. My first colonoscopy, I did the golightly. How did they come up with that name?? Nothing light about it. I couldn't even finish it. I would have started vomiting. When it came out as clean as it looked going in, I quit.

Unknown said...

"A real contrast."


Laugh out loud, Jan. When I look in a mirror while holding Emma, I am shocked by her perfection.

What I'd give to get a little of that youth back.

I still think you look great! And Carol too.

Carol said...

That's why God gave us poor close up vision and cataracts when we get old. It's to keep us from seeing how old and worn we look. She did know what she was doing. That's one reason I know God is female.

jan said...

Starting on 2nd glass.

Carol said...

Chloe, I like to go hang out on the Trail in the wee hours of the morning when I too often wake up. If anyone is there it's usually fun people with a sense of humor. Maybe they seem more fun because they've had a cocktail or two.

I wake up real chatty, full of BS. Then Craig wakes up and puts up a new post. I'm snipe hunting, which is fine with me. I know he's opened up a new chat but I don't feel so bad continuing to talk on the old one. That way I'm not bothering anyone. He usually checks in to see what we have to say.

Carol said...

How many ozs in that bottle Jan?

jan said...

Too many oz. Carol. I have barely scratched the surface. I did get the 2nd glass down. I think each glass is about 8 oz

Carol said...

I posted this on TM and as is usual, no one commented. Can I get any comment here? Have any of you ever pondered this?

“…That all men were created equal”?? That statement has always bothered me, even when I was a little kid. Every time I hear it, the words bang around in my head. Maybe I wasn't supposed to ever take that statement literally. But I did/have and I think, what rock was Jefferson living under?

God may have hoped that man would try to level the playing field but we certainly weren’t CREATED equal. What about those who were born with no arms and legs or severely intellectually impaired. Were they created equal ? If you buy that we were all created equal then you might just feel better about not giving anyone an extra helping hand because we all had the same chances. Just something I’ve pondered. I'm weird like that.

Then after a short ponder I wrote:

But then again, back in Jefferson's day, they didn't have all the pharmaceuticals and substance abuse we have today and maybe then everyone was created equal.

Carol said...

Jan, can you ponder and poop at the same time?

Carol said...

A friend told me to buy some vasoline to protect my sensitive booty. I don't think that I needed it but if you have any you might want to try it if you have a sensitive booty.

jan said...

yep, Carol I have some vaseline in the BR here with me. I am in the BR - everything I need here. I have drunk 4 glassees now. So far, nothing. I have been playing youtube- Adele and Willie Nelson. My favs.

jan said...

One of the things I have been reading in the book about Lincoln is that the Constitution protected slavery. I had history and Gov't in HS and sadly, did not pay much attention. So our Constitution did not have anything to do with "men being created equal."

Carol said...

I do feel strongly that by starting with the faulty premise that we are all created equal screws up everything else. Some of us will NEED more help than others. I think it is man's responsibility to help equal the playing field if we are all to become able to pursue life, liberty and happiness.

Coreen said...

Hope you get through your procedure with minimum discomfort Jan...Your Christmas revisited pics
are more confirmation of what a
loving family you have...evidence that along the way you raised some good children...

Coreen said...

Carol why are you dwelling on the
'all men are created equal' sentence...was it because of Pres.
Obama's speech today...

Keeping the clause in the context it was written in the declaration,
it was intended to convey the sentiments of the colonies when they severed ties from the english & the king in particular....remember that british royalty...the same ones depicted in DA...whose way of life seems so well foreign to many...

Are you saying the founding fathers
were hypocrites...since at the time slavery was accepted by some of the states(& some of the founders as well) & remember women
were not included in that concept of equality either...

men...imperfect of course...yet suggesting a more idealistic vision of what could be...& over time has been happening...

Carol said...

Yep Coreen, I was. Why do we keep repeating something so untrue?

Carol said...

Larry Ward, chairman of Gun Appreciation Day, said slavery “might not have been a chapter in our history” had slaves been armed."

Did that sound totally ridiculous to you? Who was going to issue each a gun? I doubt the NRA would have back then if they were around back then.

Carol said...

If they allow people like that to talk on TV, then my saying some stupid stuff on a blog isn't so bad.

jan said...

Thank you Coreen.

Coreen said...

Chloe, as far as your latest TM
adventure...

"Sorry to say my time there has once again caused be to feel broken hearted, and I need to stop putting myself in that situation.

I believe swjny is Sheila, and realize that she won't ever give up 'til I leave. I feel very guilty for not fighting more against what I perceived as mistreatment of Bill, and now I hate myself for being so wishy-washy with that effort. I find that I'm always compromising to just get along, and that always ends up making me feel so bad about myself.

So I'm going to leave them uninterupted in their beliefs but hopefully I will hopefully feel welcome to say what I want here"

I will again refer to Solar's defending you the last time...just say what is on your mind, own it & let it go...

Have no idea why you feel that the australian bill was being 'mistreated' or needed backup...pretty sure he is more than capable of defending his views... to my recollection flatus, champ & the swjny person were those conversing with him when he threw in 'xenophobia'...

Don't think the swjny person is Sheila, (if you are refering to Chef Sheila who used to be one of the in crowd at tm & who as far as I remember married & moved to the southeast part of the u.s. & rarely makes an appearance)...

the person known as swjny mentioned living in upstate NY & not sure if it is a woman, but for some reason I think so...

Carol, I believe has an opinion as to swjny...

Carol said...

Coreen, I really liked the President's speech. I just wish they would leave out the statement I mentioned.

Coreen said...

Because Carol to them in that time frame, in their world it was not untrue...

Carol said...

I recently learned that swjny is a woman. I was thinking she was male. I think that you're right in that she lives up that way. I think she's an immigrant?? I got the feeling she's not Caucasian. I seem to remember that she irritated me with something she said a good while back but can't remember what it was. Coreen, do you remember? .

Carol said...

I agree that Bill can take care of himself. He has interesting things to say but it does get a little old when he keeps picking on our country even when he is right about some things. Like I said, in an overly simple way, we can pick on our own loved ones but it's hard to tolerate hearing someone else do it.

Coreen said...

Whoever wrote that speech for him, framed it using the founders to embrace pres obama's view of how he wants to shape his 2nd term...

Carol said...

I heard he wrote it himself.

Coreen said...

You're right Carol, she did say something to you, but honestly don't remember what...& you called her on it & let it go...

TM, like I suppose other blogs where 'regular's repeatedly comment...has an in crowd if you will...& not sure what makes one part of that clique...& while I do think there are some really good personalities there, I don't find I have much in common with the thoughts expressed anymore...

Carol said...

Coreen, was it when all these people kept showing up on TV with these different names but they all sounded like the same person? Many of them used initials but I'm not sure she was one of them.

Carol said...

Coreen, I definitely don't fear people from other countries. I usually find them fascinating. I do fear those from other planets. What is that phobia? ETophobia.

Coreen said...

Nothing is coming back Carol, I don't even remember when you were were on TM before the gun control
posts...

Unknown said...

Carol,
I responded to your comment but left it on the page where you made it. I think Coreen's explanation makes a lot more sense, but then you do know I have my own way of looking at things:

Quirky. Chloe says:
01/21/2013 at 5:28 PM

Carol,
"All men were created equal”

I think "All men were created equal” means all people deserve equal rights and are of equal value, regardless of those things you mentioned. And that we 'should' give a helping hand to those who are have a rough time, because if we are prospering then we should do what we can to help others prosper as well.

I've also interpreted it as meaning we should consider no one as inferior to ourself and to treat them accordingly

"All men were created equal" should direct the way we are governed. Freedom, equality and rights for all. I don't see it as a religious term.

Unknown said...

Thanks Coreen for your advice, and I have to say that the real reason I should not be there is because I also don't agree with that many there. That's why I said it's a struggle not to insult someone and I agree there is still a 'click' there, but it's gotten a lot smaller.

I went back and looked what Solar said to me that day, and in no way considered it as a defense.

He said 'if I'm going to slam people' and I have to admit that I resented the way he put it. He in no way sounded kind, and what he said about it not affecting our friendship was bogus. There was no friendship left.

He and I disagreed on many things too. I hope he doesn't read this, but I felt he was often contradicting himself and his obsession with the church appeared to be: one foot in and one foot out.

That's OK, I know. But it was also confusing. Why would someone say they thought the bible was fiction (and he did many times) and then go on to discuss it continuously, as though it were real.

Coreen said...

No Carol, not ETphobia, just too much C2C late at night...

What fear of foreigners?..Maybe just a little condescension...
nothing like the good old usa..faults & all...have no desire to be anywhere else...

And yes the guy's put down of American policies was tedious, & then the gratuitous joke about telling americans something or other...forgot what it was exactly but remember it was a cheap shot...
always a way to win friends...

Unknown said...

Jan, the Vaseline is a great idea. I don't think I would have made it without it.

That had to be one of the most miserable days of my life (although there's been plenty).

I dread the thought of doing it again. Hope you're doing Ok.

Carol said...

And you just had to change the words of that statement to make it true, from all men were created equal to all men should be treated equal or should have an equal chance. That's OK. I understand where they were headed but if that is what our forefathers wanted, that is what they should have said. But it still doesn't change the fact that all men are NOT created equal.

If we remove the created part, it would be all men were born equal. Still doesn't work for me. I'm not trying to be irritating. It's just something that always bothered me when I heard it said. It just highlights the fact that life just ain't fair.

Coreen said...

Oh good Chloe you are here...

Maybe you can go back & find out
when Carol had her tiff with the swjny person...vaguely remember there used to be away to find old comments..

As for Solar, see I remember it as
defending you against whoever was involved, whether one agrees with another or not...but my recollection may be incorrect...

Unknown said...

I really have loved reading the conversation here today.

There is so much more love and common sense on this site than any other.

And if Solar happens to see what I wrote, I hope he still knows we (including me) all miss and love him.

He joined TM because of Patsi (and who wouldn't have loved Patsi) and he left there when she did.

I don't even think he peeks in on us any more.

Carol said...

I seem to remember Coreen that even Tony got irritated with Bill. I think? When you can irritate our little Tony boy, you are pretty irritating.

Carol said...

Chloe, maybe Solar is busy as hell with some good work. That's what I hope.

Carol said...

I guess the golightly has kicked in.

Unknown said...

"If we remove the created part, it would be all men were born equal. Still doesn't work for me. I'm not trying to be irritating. It's just something that always bothered me when I heard it said. It just highlights the fact that life just ain't fair."

Can't argue with you there, Carol. Life is not fair, no matter how hard we try. For one thing, it would be nice if it said 'all people are created equal'. Because women sure had to wait a long time for anything even remotely resembling be equal with men.

I'll take a look. Searching for swjny. If I don't find it in a few minutes, I find it tomorrow.

Have a great evening -- and Jan, let us know about your results tomorrow. I do hope they are putting you under?

Coreen said...

Carol, hello...everyone, man or woman are not created equal...that is just not reality...

Can anyone define equal...does it mean opportunity, success,
education, intelligence, what...





Carol said...

And in reference to Bill again...it's not like most of us aren't aware of our country's flaws. A majority of us are also not happy with them. We just can't seem to find anyone who has the balls to fix them.

That's the problem, we need someone without balls. Those balls do get in the way of rational thinking.

Carol said...

Do I hear an Amen?

Carol said...

And what do you guys make of that Manti Te'o story? That's a strange one. You wouldn't think that a star football player would need an imaginary girl friend unless he really didn't want one and it was a way to avoid other girls coming on to him.

Maybe they should make sure he doesn't have access to guns.

Coreen said...

Now here's the first pic of the day's important things...Michelle Obama in ruby red chiffon/velvet
gown for inagural ball....

They danced to al green's lets stay together sung by jennifer hudson...I believe that was the song the pres ad libbed once & everyone swooned!...Mr. Coolcat...

First Lady in Red

Carol said...

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/19/snl-lance-armstrong-manti-teo-jodie-foster_n_2513617.html

'SNL' Takes On Lance Armstrong, Manti Te'o & Jodie Foster In Cold Open (VIDEO)

This is very funny!

Unknown said...

There's a search button at the top right side of Craig's site (with a little magnifying glass to click on): I searched for "sjwny says" (without the quotes­) and it gives me only the comments she's made in the last few days, then it jumps back to March of 2012. It usually searches in a backward order (most recent first). Didn't realize she'd been there that long.

Normally it works quite easily, and lists everything you written over the last few months. Don't know why it's jumping around now, but will try again tomorrow.

Carol said...

I missed the dress but I'm sure I'll see it again somewhere. I changed the channel.

Coreen said...

the teo story is just plain bizarre...only heard about it on sports talk & there is no consensus there as to whether he was duped or part of some scam, & if so, to what end...

for me, it just doesn't add up...

Carol said...

My intuition tells me that he, for some reason was avoiding having a relationship but he didn't want to be labeled as abnormal because of it. Or labeled as gay. He's religious.

He created the perfect online girlfriend, one with the qualities that he wanted. But by trying to avoid attention, he got more than he wanted. That's how it goes.

SNL didn't have a clue what Jodie was trying to say either.

jan said...

I think the "...created equal" should be stated "...equal under the law."

jan said...

Well, I am done - not finished, but done. I had some kind of reaction to the golightly. After about 1/2 of it, I started getting a terrible rash and had a lot of pain - guess where. I was in agony. So I stopped drinking the stuff and took an antihistamine. It is better now. I got a mirror and looked and everything is bright red and swollen.

I will never do this again.

Carol said...

It's a bad case of road rash. Clean gently, pat dry and try that steroid cream. Give it some air. Some of your dry, cool outside air might be nice but then you may have another problem if you're caught exposing your bottom to it.

jan said...

Thanks Carol for talking with me about it. As long as I don't move, it feels better. I did look up the stuff and it says "call your doctor in case of rash or skin irritation." I will count you as my doctor. I did take an antihistamine and I put the steroid cream on the area. I am terrified of going to the bathroom again. That is when it hurts.

jan said...

yes, all I need is to be arrested for indecent exposure - LOL

Carol said...

It's because of the irritation. Urine will irritate raw skin. Even regular water will. I had food poisoning in Mexico and spent most of one night with diarrhea. Even regular distilled water was like pouring acid on it.

Carol said...

What a pain in the ass that test is, huh?

Carol said...

Had a nice nap and now I'm up. No use fighting it and since I'm still in my recliner and can't toss and turn like I need to, it's good to get up just to take the weight off my bones.

It's weird how my bones have always been sensitive. When I would lay on the gym floor in PE, as a kid, doing some exercise, I guess due to the pressure of the hard surface on my bones, it would hurt to get up. It was only momentary. As soon as I broke that initial pain plane to move I was fine. That's a lot like I'm feeling now except I don't feel a lot better after I get moving.

Carol said...

And Jan, after working in corrections for 11 years, I can definitely tell ya that we aren't all equal under the law. Lady Justice can be bought just like most everyone else.

Carol said...

Good luck Jan. The rest is the easy part. Nice nap and then food.

Hope your poor booty feels better.

jan said...

We are up and going to the outpat facility. I am much better this morning. Carol, the hi potency steroid cream did its job.

We will see if they will do the procedure without me drinking all the stuff. Not ever doing that stuff again.

wish me luck

jan said...

Sorry your bones hurt Carol. You have never had much padding over your bones, like me. I used to wish I could give you some.

Talk later. Get some rest Carol.

Carol said...

Waiting to hear from you Jan. Lately, I get too much rest.

Carol said...

Coreen, I did like Michelle's dress, more than the last white one.

Coreen said...

Likely a lovely gown,(if you see it up close) seems ruby red is the color of the season for all celebs...at least as per Joan Rivers Fashion Police!...

Coreen said...

Good thing you don't live here guys...it is sunny, but only 20 & windy...tough couple of days to go with really cold days...

Coreen said...

And it was 18 on the way home, wind chill makes it feel like 6...
but it could be worse, like this cold & snow(which may happen on Friday)...or like some parts of pa, upstate ny & northern new england are getting awful cold & lots of snow...

Need to remind you again...I really hate snow!...

Coreen said...

And it was 18 on the way home, wind chill makes it feel like 6...
but it could be worse, like this cold & snow(which may happen on Friday)...or like some parts of pa, upstate ny & northern new england are getting awful cold & lots of snow...

Need to remind you again...I really hate snow!...

Coreen said...

And can I get a big 'who cares' that Beyonce didn't sing the national anthem live....& that Kelly Clarkson did sing my country tis of thee live...didn't they both do a fine job...

Carol said...

Both sounded good to me. Didn't know that Beyonce wasn't live. Who cares? I think we have better things to worry about.

I hate cold weather. I shutter to think of how cold it is up there.

Oh where oh where is Jan. Maybe she's taking a long nap. Hope everything is OK.

jan said...

Ok, I am among the conscious again. I did crash after getting home. Slept for several hours, sitting on the couch in front of the TV with Ryley beside me. She is such a little comfort baby.

The procedures were only partly successful. Apparently I was in too much discomfort and they could not finish either procedure. I do have gastritis. I think the golightly did it. I had to go to the lab this afternoon to get a blood test for pylori bacteria.

I do have a lesion on my distal esophagus. The pathology report will take 2 weeks. That does worry me. They will do another colonoscopy at the hospital because they want to use a gen'l anesthesia. I do remember crying out but no much more. I have an appt with my doc (internist) 1/31. I am going to request a gastroenterologist.

Carol said...

Oh dang, that means another prep. You weren't using a gastroenterology? I forgot you had to have both ends done. Yuk.

I swear I haven't heard a bit of good news today.

Coreen said...

Sorry Jan, doesn't sound good at all, especially to someone like me
who doesn't take kindly to medical
anything...Carol knows how dr. adverse I am...& your story sure doesn't lessen my concerns about
that procedure...

Coreen said...

File this in general info...know you are intereted in 'greening' your life Carol...wondering if anyone has purchased any of these
LED bulbs yet...

I have not, I have no use for those
curly things...they are worthless...I have a couple remaining in the garage ceiling ntil they snap out (& they do go out, they will not be replaced) but so far I have been able to find the good old
3-way incandescent bulb for all
my lamps...Actually I had tried one of the curly things in the lamp
near my clock radio &
the reception was full of static, couldn't figure out what had happened to my radio...it's a Bose & it had
great reception & suddenly couldn't hear the strongest station...one day
while the radio was on, I switched the lamp on & bingo, immediately the great sound went all static again...I realized the problem was that ridiculous curly bulb...well that ended my effort to use more
energy efficient lighting...what a crock...not to mention the light it cast was not good either...

Not a happy camper that the idiots in charge have forced the demise of incandescents...now that is a conspiracy I could buy into Carol...utter nonsense to push an agenda by destroying a basic product that actually works!...

The latest offering is the LED, will have to buy one & see what kind of light it gives & if it interferes with signals to other items like radio...
LEDs emerge as popular green lighting

Carol said...

Well Coreen, you will be pleased to know that I hate those curly things also. Can't see with them and they are full of mercury so we'll now poison the planet. Do you think people will dispose of them the way they should.

Just like when we had to change all of our TVs. I do like the new flat screens but look at all the trash we created. And they use tons more electricity and heat up a house. You can almost cook on them. Yep, we've been scammed.
The cure is far worse than the disease. But I do believe it was those crooks in our government collaborating with the big corp crooks who are responsible.

Carol said...

Just heard that Congress refused to cut the big subsidies to Big Oil. We pay high fuel prices, our taxes go to the stinking rich oil cos and who profits?? The oil companies and the politicians who get the big campaign contributions. And they have no shame. Why do tax payers let these crooks get by with it???

jan said...

Mass shootings have hit Albq. A 15 y/o teen shot his parents and 3 siblings today in Albuq. Horrible.

jan said...

You can see the story on CNN news.

Coreen said...

What are you using for light bulbs
now...would you try the leds...

As far as the curly ones, I thought the mercury was insignificant as far as damage to anything...and you know I don't buy into the destroy the earth agenda...around here one town actually banned plastic bags...westport the very tony upscale neighbor town...do you really think that does anything...just made the very liberal leaning town feel good...

& I believe there are some towns considering a ban of plastic bottles...around here we now have a plastic bottle deposit on water bottles & soda bottles...other plastics get recycled with the paper...

and you know my thinking about recycling we do it here, but not everywhere...so what good is it...

TVs...did you say you 'had' to change your tv, why...I have 2 flatscreens & 3 of the old ones...have not noticed the new ones are hotter...again I think the push to get the new tvs was just more hype to sell new products...I really don't like the rectangular screens, they squish everyone, no matter how big the screen, everyone looks dumpy...same with the computer monitors...& yes I prefer pc, don't like laptops at all, & tablets are just toys...

Coreen said...

Well if you don't like paying more for energy, oil, electric, etc..you sure shouldn't like what the climate change agenda has in store...& you still don't pay as much as we do for all energy sources...yes, gas is still hovering around $4 here...it has not gone down...just like the cost of electricity...& heating oil & natural gas...it just goes on & on...

Coreen said...

Jan, saw that the other day & thought about you...think it was same type weapon as in CT...

jan said...

Coreen, the news story says he was planning on going out and shooting more people - at Walmart.

Carol said...

Jan, I read the story about the Albuquerque shooting. Again, one of the victims was a very special person, like so many others who have been killed in these shootings.

"... Greg Griego, a spiritual leader known for his work with firefighters and the 13 years he spent as a volunteer chaplain at the county jail.

"Chaplin Griego was a dedicated professional that passionately served his fellow man and the firefighters of this community," Fire Chief James Breen said in a statement. "His calming spirit and gentle nature will be greatly missed."

Think of all the others who have been killed, they were exceptional people, Gabby, the little Green girl and others in Tucson. All those special children and adults in Sandy Hook.

Why does it seem that when you hear of the people who are killed by these crazed shooters, they are such wonderful people, and on the really high end of the scale in the area of wonderful? If you don’t believe me, just read their obits. I do believe there is some meaning to things that happen in life, it’s not just total chance that things occur. I can see some of you are rolling your eyes. If that is the case, the above might be explained in two different ways, both that you would judge me nuts for even thinking. I’ll be losing a lot of cred here, if I ever had any, by mentioning both of these ideas. But I challenge you to prove me wrong. Can’t do it. LOL

One explanation is, that when the Universe wants to make a point, it uses significant people to do it. They might have had permission from the souls of those people to do it. Or….death is really the reward and it’s being here on earth that’s hell. Now, there’s a new book out now, written by a neurosurgeon, claiming there is definitely a heaven, it's wonderful and he’s made a visit. There are many others who also testify to that.

And why do we have that saying.."only the good die young?" Someone else must have had a ponder or two about that.

Carol said...

And there are such a thing as killer boobs. You'll have to cut and paste the link:

"Donna Lange, Washington Woman, Accused Of Using Her Breasts To Smother And Kill Boyfriend"

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/16/donna-lange-breasts-smother-kill-boyfriend-everett-washington_n_2486189.html

Carol said...

Between here and TM Coreen, I bet I've given you a few things to gag on.

Carol said...

And Coreen, I seem to remember that you had a lover or two who died while you were dating them. None of them were found under your boobs, were they? I can't even hold a penny under either of mine even with the old age sag factor going on.

Coreen said...

You really need to get better faster Carol!...so you can get out & about...you seem to be experiencing 'cabin fever' with your all hours 'ponders'...

I just shake my head or roll my eyes when I read some of them...

Coreen said...

More like 4 for 4 Carol...but I was not with them when they died...
good fortune for me!...

Carol said...

"You really need to get better faster Carol!...so you can get out & about...you seem to be experiencing 'cabin fever' with your all hours 'ponders'..."

Believe me Coreen, I'd be more that happy to oblige you there. I'm not happy having this extra ponder time. It usually occurs in the wee hours. I nap off and on and then wake up very early and the my ponderer goes off. I even bought my little Nintindo DSXL to distract me. I do have to take a break from that also.

I make myself get up to do a few things here and there.

I made myself go out to the camp and check on my guys yesterday and to Walmart to get a few things. They are making very slow progress. Papa looks to be in pain also so he just seems to be supervising and only one son working now. They do meticulous work so I can't complain.

I've come to really love those guys and will miss them when they are no longer there.

Carol said...

I'm listening the Hillary testify in front of the, whatever, committee. I'm so in awe of her intelligence. She's already made me cry a few times.

Coreen said...

And just so you know it was 10 when I went outside earlier...the sun is bright, the sky is blue, so deceptive...it is really cold...

Coreen said...

Sorry, Hill is no competitionc for re-runs of Miami Vice...2 back to back episodes mornings on some cable channel, while I get ready to go do the office...my absolute
fav ever...don johnson/sonny crocket...both the actor & his character...& yes in the early shows they always killed the bad guys!!...before p.c. got to the show...

Carol said...

Before they were identified, I knew who were Republican or Democrat by their questions to Hillary. I wanted to see how she handled herself. She was good. Not terribly interested in the subject.

Carol said...

I carried Maggie out to the camp. The sun is shining bright and my outside thermometer reads 80. It's not that warm, the sun shines right on it.

Carol said...

Hope I didn't hurt your feelings the other day Chloe.

Carol said...

Rand Paul said if was her boss he would have fired her. He doesn't have the smarts she has in her little toe. You can certainly identify most Republcans when they open their mouths, they show their asses.

Coreen said...

well the little I saw/heard of hill before congress just shows what has been missing these last 4 years...she's the best & we did not get the best.. sour grapes, damn straight!...yeah & so what...



Coreen said...

well the little I saw/heard of hill before congress just shows what has been missing these last 4 years...she's the best & we did not get the best.. sour grapes, damn straight!...yeah & so what...



Coreen said...

well the little I saw/heard of hill before congress just shows what has been missing these last 4 years...she's the best & we did not get the best.. sour grapes, damn straight!...yeah & so what...



Coreen said...

Guess the blog knew I was annoyed!

Coreen said...

as for the likes of rand paul, ron johnson, the vile representative from sc & any others that showed today just what inept wusses truly are...all annoying little guys...aka 'twits'....enough said...

Carol said...

Hillary was totally HOT today. She made me proud to be a member of her species and that doesn't happen that often anymore.

Carol said...

LOL Coreen. I guess it did and it bears repeating.

Carol said...

Talking about Hillary on the Trail today brought up some good memories of when we first met. Some aggravating ones also. Remember Brian? I wonder what he's up to? Don't really care. He had some anger issues.

Unknown said...

Oh Jan, I am so sorry to hear what you've been through. I assumed all colonoscopy's were done by a gastroenterologist. And I can't imagining having one without being completely out. I never felt a thing. Just woke up hungry.

I feel certain that lesion on your esophagus 'will not' be malignant. I think with the acid problems you've experienced that it may be more like an ulcer (which I had 5 years ago, and have to take an anti-acid twice a day forever -- but that's OK because no more ulcer).

Is there anyway to keep your stress level down lower than usual, while you're waiting for the results.

I am so very sorry that you are going through so much and can completely empathize with how you must feel. You may not believe that, but I do somehow, and will think only the most positive things about your future (and present) until you work your way through this. Rest is so important.

'This too shall pass'.

Unknown said...

Carol, Of course you didn't hurt my feelings. You didn't say anything I didn't already know. Like I said before, I'd be the worlds biggest hypocrite if I was offended by pure and caring honesty. I know I dish out my opinions way too freely.

I've just had a couple of really busy days (maybe they're just caused by my disorganization, but the days never seem long enough here lately.

The older I get, the more time seems to fly by. Even though Emma's in school more, I just can't tell you what it's like trying to keep up with a 4 year old. Oh, Lordy!

Unknown said...

" gas is still hovering around $4 here...it has not gone down...just like the cost of electricity...& heating oil & natural gas...it just goes on & on."

Coreen, I know I just can't believe how much everything costs. And add insurance to that list of costs going higher.

I finally have Medicare, but they raised the price of the prescription plans (and not sure what next). Then my Blue Cross gap plan I just recent got went up another $30. It's all starting to add up to what I was paying for insurance before the Medicare.

Unknown said...

I barely scanned TM... am feeling particularly uninterested in politics. What Jan is going through right now, probably things we are all going through on a daily basis just puts things more into perspective for me.

It always comes back to the same place. It's a struggle just to care for ourselves and those around us.

"Sweet nothings are being whispered in your ears while your rights and your money are stolen. It's a good scam...."

Well, I for one agree.

Champ said this:

Unknown said...

I have never hidden the fact that I believe and agree with almost all the things Champ says. It's one those thing... when I read his posts, I think exactly the same thing. It's just that I'd never be as good at saying it as he is.

I really don't want to drag Politics over here, but I just have to quote one more of his comments:

"Why does it have to be a "culture war", Mr. Crawford? Can't people live their lives by their own values rather than only those of which you approve? This "Us Vs. Them" mentality hardly makes for a "more perfect union", in my opinion."

That paragraph says what I've been trying to say for over 5 years now, but have never succeeded. And then in a few words he made it so clear, without offending anyone.

Unknown said...

That quote before last had the champ says this at the end instead of before the quote, but hopefully you get the general idea.

Not looking for any agreement here. Don't need it. It just feels good to put it in print again, because it describes what I believe wholeheartedly. It feels good to say it without worrying about offending anyone.

I feel like I've sold out so many times in order to not ruffle anyone's feathers (at TM) that I've hated myself for it afterwards.

Unknown said...

... and then the inevitable explosion would come, because you just can't hold things in that long. I will never, ever 'go along to get along' ever again (on a blog).

Unknown said...

Jan, The most important thing right now, in my opinion is that you heal.

Same for you Carol (you haven't mentioned much about how you're feeling).

And Coreen, I don't think I've ever heard you complain, but hope you are feeling and doing well too.

Carol said...

Yes Chloe, when we hold things in, the pressure will build until there's an explosion. Then we really feel bad about that. I've done it for so much of my life.

You can always express your opinions here. We don't have to all agree to get along.

Carol said...

I really enjoyed watching Hillary today, not because I was that interested in the subject but I enjoyed watching the dynamics of the interactions. Those Republicans are so amusing. What clowns most of them are.

I could guess the political affiliation of each member of the committee before they identified who was speaking, just by watching the expression on Hillary's face. For one, her eye contact changed. I don't think anyone could have held up as well as she did today. She kicked some ass and I loved it.

She showed us all how to take an attack and keep your cool.

jan said...

Busy day. I worked and my DIL had her surgery this morning. She had overgrowth of bone on her skull that was pressing on her right optic nerve and brain. Not sure how they did it but they took some of it off. She is in ICU tonight. Doing well. We took my son and 2 grands out to dinner.

Have not had time to think about my own stuff.

Thanks Chloe for words of encouragement. I always think the worst - which is probably a good idea. I appreciate you sharing your own experience. I think the Doc talked to me after the procedures but cannot remember much.

I am going to be like Scarlett O'Hara, "I will think about it tomorrow"

jan said...

I am so sorry I missed Hillary today. Good to hear how she did. I will have to catch up on news tomorrow and Friday.

jan said...

How are you feeling Carol?

Carol said...

Jan, if you don't have a ulcer, you certainly missed a good chance to considering all your family stress.

Unknown said...

"She kicked some ass and I loved it"

I didn't watch it, Carol... but that doesn't stop me from appreciating that she still has it. I've never doubted she was the most capable person for the job: ANY JOB. I can only imagine how much she's learned and grown even more in the last four years.

Unknown said...

I am going to be like Scarlett O'Hara, "I will think about it tomorrow"

Good for you Jan!
'Tomorrows another day'. We must always keep that in mind.

I hope everything works out well for you, your DIL and everyone else.

Unknown said...

... and Jan, I'm like you and always prepare myself for the worst. I think we do that to protect ourselves in some way, but in reality it harms us more than protects us.

I hope you can stay as neutral in your expectations as much as possible.

Being the worrier that I am, I've found that reality is almost never as bad than my worst fears.

Unknown said...

Wish we had an edit button.

Carol said...

I heard on the Today Show that someone could hack into your webcam and watch you while you are on your computer. Evidently it's not even difficult. Did you know that?

Most laptops have those built in Webcams and we spend a good bit of time on them. My laptop stays on and next to me. I realize that I wouldn't be an interesting subject for observing but it's still a scary thing.

Carol said...

Chloe, I just ordered a replacement keyboard for my second laptop. So far my old laptop is still working with the one I replaced on it. Seems like it's the keyboard that goes first. I bet many have replaced their laptop because of it.

Carol said...

You're right Chloe that reality is most often not as bad as our worst fears.. When I convince myself of that fact, I'll think that statistically, maybe this time ir will be or worse.

Unknown said...

Carol, I betcha a lot of good lap tops get tossed because of bad keyboards too. They just collect so much dust, crumbs, humidity (and around me and my cats who knows what else). I've found that my lap tops are lasting a long time since we discovered the keyboard replacement technique.

Unknown said...

Don't worry about the web cam. If they read this blog long enough they'll be looking into our souls.
(I think you have to turn on the cam first, don't you?)

Carol said...

I don't think you have to turn on your Webcam on these computers where they are built in. They recommend putting something over the little lens. I put a little piece of paper and a chip clip. Makes me feel better.

Carol said...

And Chloe, at least I'm putting my soul out there. I'd rather they not see the rest of me unless I'm prepared to be seen and I know who's doing the looking.

Carol said...

After I heard that on the Today Show, I remembered a story where some school sent laptops home with some of their students and someone at the school was watching those students when they were on the computers. When I'm home, I pretty much live next to mine.

Coreen said...

Probably should be more concerned with sleep loss from having the computer on before going to sleep...studies continue to suggest that the light from the screens interferes with sleep...the tablets, smartphones light may have even more disruptive effect because of the similarity to daylight...

Carol said...

Jan, let us know how your DIL is doing.

Carol said...

It was overcast but comfortably warm today. News says it's 71 now at 5p.

Carol said...

I see it's still very cold there Coreen.

Coreen said...

and we have not been at freezing
(32) all week..this a.m. it was 9, 18 on the way home, but the wind was brutal...sun was out & the sky was blue, vert decieving...

but the snow they were predicting for tomorrow may be heading to the south, just grazing us with a dusting to 3"...by saturday...tonite is going to be the coldest night of the week...

but it is staying lighter later...& next week they claim we make it to 40...

Carol said...

40 is not good enough for me.

Carol said...

That Manti Teo story is interesting. I just don't understand why a college kid, football star would be even interested in just a Internet partner. I don't understand why he didn't see all the red flags that were waving all over. He must have some intimacy issues.

Unknown said...

"... studies continue to suggest that the light from the screens interferes with sleep"

Coreen,
I saw your comment last night but was too tired to comment. I've always kept our house as dark as possible once the sun goes down. We mostly use night lights, and then there's huge glare of computers and big screen TV's though/of course. It's been proven scientifically, but to me it's always felt like the natural way to stay on a schedule. It's a good way to raise kids too, because every thing about them depends on a lot of rest and a good diet.

I realized, when you said that, how much all these electronics have really affected our melatonin level and therefore our life. I mean, obviously electronics have affected our life in 'every' way possible.

Unknown said...

Random Sleeping Tip
"Everything in this world is happening for a reason. Day is made to work and the night is meant for rest. If we are not following these routines, then our bodies are greatly affected by it. Like the day and night has a discipline in them, there are a lot of physiological functions in our body that are directly linked to sunrise and sunset. Therefore it is really important for us to understand that our bodies need to follow the natural biological clock."

Everything in this world is happening for a reason

Unknown said...

Carol, You're right.

Everything in this world is happening for a reason.

Unknown said...

Jan, hoping to hear how you're doing. I've been thinking about you and wish you well.

Carol said...

Anyone see the movie Beast of the Southern Wild? The little Louisiana girl and the guy who played her daddy are both from La and are newbies to acting. I saw an interview with both on Rock Center last night. That kid is sharp as a tack, typical La people. LOL. She's 9 now, going on 30.

I'm planning to try to find it today at a Redbox. Audience gave it 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, critics 86%. I love those little off beat movies.

Little Quvenzhané Wallis is up for an Academy Award. So cool.

Carol said...

My guys said they thought they would be finished with the camp this week except for the shower. He's having trouble with it. It was a pretty cheap corner of the room shower even though it worked well for me. They are going to replace it with something much better.

My guys are very picky about their work. They will only do quality stuff that will last.

One problem is that the ceilings in the kitchen and bathroom are not the typical height, only about 6 1/2ft tall. I think I told y'all that those rooms were made from what was previously a porch. That's why they had this flat roll roof up over them. It was obvious when they replaced the ceiling in the kitchen.

Most of the camps were originally spit together by river rats.

Coreen said...

New post is up...

jan said...

I am still here. My DIL is still in ICU. went up to see her this morning. the right side of her face is very swollen, especially her R eye. She has staples on her scalp from the middle of her forehead (at hairline) to the middle of her R ear. They are keeping her sedated. She was sitting in a chair. My son has stayed with her every day until late at night. He goes home about 11 at night to be with the 20 and 11 year olds. I am going to stay with her some this afternoon to give him a break to run some errands. Her docs say she is doing well.

jan said...

Glad the work on your camp is coming along Carol.

I definitely want to see the movie about Katrina with the little girl. I have seen the trailers of the movie. Cutest little girl.

jan said...

Just got back from seeing DIL. about the same. Her Blood sugar has been high and they are giving her insulin. Her a1c before surgery was 6.5 so this is probably related to her surgery. Her hgb and hct are very low. They may do a scan to see if she is bleeding somewhere. They may transfuse her.

One of my former students is taking care of her. So cool to see her. One of the problems they have been having is that she has a regular diet and it hurts to chew. So when I went back this afternoon, her nurse had seen to it that she got a soft diet. Nevertheless I took her some of her favorite greek yogurts - lots of protein.


Unknown said...

Carol,
Did you read that science article Jamie just linked regard bloggers and commenters?

It's long, but very interesting. I starting just scanning the second half, but this paragraph I'm quoting rang a bell: "But there is another problem here – most of the good, nice, constructive commenters may have gone silent and taken their discussions of your blog elsewhere, but the remaining few commenters are essentially trolls."

I'm not referring to the troll part of the paragraph I quoted, but to the fact that we come over here to discuss what's being talked about at TM... and vice, versa.

The whole article is very good (if you didn't see it).
Good, Bad, or not at all

.... see what I'm doing here. Linking her link here. The article the majority of people: 90%..... just lurk and don't comment at all.