Madness Takes Its Toll, Chili and Cornbread, and Lawnmower Girl

Madness Takes Its Toll - Lyrics of "The Time Warp" echo in my mind as I read news stories this morning:

Riff Raff:
     It's astounding
     Time is fleeting
     Madness takes its toll
     But listen closely
Magenta:
     Not for very much longer
Riff Raff:
     I've got to keep control

How, prithee, does one "...keep control"?

Following a particularly pleasant weekend—replete with warmth and well-deserved rest and relaxation, I find the news filled yet again with undeniable signs that the world is, indeed, on the Eve of Destruction.

Always the poster boy for psychoses, Gory Al has outdone himself: He stated that "...spiders are difficult to farm, yet their silk is extremely valuable." He then says that genetic engineers have taken the genes from orb-weaving spiders and spliced them into the DNA of goats—thereby creating goats that produce silk from their udders along with milk. Gore proposes that the silk can be filtered from the milk more easily than silk can be collected from spiders.

Beneath the intrinsic bizarre objective of Gore's proposal lies the absolute flaw: Silk is not produced by spiders; silk is produced by silk worms!

I am wholly uncomfortable with the notion of Al Gore unrestrained and free to spew such idiocy. I am all the more distressed that somehow his rantings are enabled by tax dollars!

Chili and Cornbread - Laura issued the desire to produce a pot of chili Saturday. I thought this an excellent idea and fully endorsed her proposal. I sliced, diced, minced, and chopped several varieties of chiles—including some hot Jalapeños and a very hot habanero—, three heads of garlic, a large red onion, and four large tomatoes. Laura added my offering to ground turkey in a Calphalon(r) pot, added two hot chili seasoning packets, a can of tomato paste, and a can of diced tomatoes. She simmered this throughout the day, and the house smelled wonderful.




While the chili was simmering, Laura produced a delightful batch of cheddar cornbread.


We enjoyed a delicious meal, placed a large quantity of chili in the freezer, and we both left for work this morning with the balance of the chili and cornbread in tow for our luncheons.

Lawnmower Girl - Last week, Laura espoused her desire for a new lawnmower and professed her desire that this lawnmower be hers and hers alone and that lawn mowing should be her sole responsibility.

I found it impossible to disagree with this proposal and immediately ordered the lawnmower of her choice!

Laura assembled her new lawnmower and is eagerly awaiting pressing it into service!

Heat of the Moment, The Fats of Life, -and- Survivor

Heat of the Moment - Al Gore tries to cool 'climate spin' by correcting claims of North pole thaw
The Fats of Life - Weight Watchers sues Jenny Craig over Bertinelli ad
Survivor - medical app on iPhone saves trapped earthquake victim

On this day in history: January 20, 1998 - Nepalese police seized a shipment of 272 human skulls in Kathmandu, stashed atop a bus, apparently destined for sale to tourists as curios.

Born on this day in history: January 20, 1930 - Buzz Aldrin (1930 - ) Born in Montclair, New Jersey, astronaut Buzz Aldrin trained at West Point and set a record by walking in space for more than five hours during the Gemini 12 mission in 1966. During the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, Aldrin was the second man to set foot on the Moon. In 2009, he earned the Congressional Gold Medal for his contributions to space flight.

Scripture of the Day: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. - James 1:2-3

Video of the Day: The Scott Heard Round the World

Hundreds gather to protest global warming! Click to enlarge.

Technology News
Versace to launch phone this spring
Microsoft to issue out-of-band patch to fix IE hole
Bing to oust Google as default iPhone search?

Mommie Dearest, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Hot and Cold

Mommie Dearest - mother teaches 12-year-old daughter to shoplift
The Kids Are Alright - Boy Scout earns 121 merit badges
Hot and Cold - Gore braves severe ice storm to testify on global warming

On this day in history: January 28, 1978 - "Vampire of Sacramento" Richard Chase is arrested. Miscellaneous human organs are found in his refrigerator. He managed to kill six people, drinking the blood of two of his victims.

Born on this day in history: January 28, 1968 - Sarah McLachlan (1968-) Born in Halifax, Canada, singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan had her debut album in 1988, gaining a following for her atmospheric folk-pop music. In 1993, her single "Possession" broke the Top 100. In 1997, McLachlan founded the successful Lilith Fair, an annual tour of women musicians.

Scripture of the Day: [Those who follow the LORD are firmly planted, healthy, and full of life.] Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. - Psalm 1:4

Video of the Day: Bizarre Foods: Guinea Pig - submitted by Jay

How tequila works! Click to enlarge.

COLD! It was a mere 30° as I drove to my office at 7 AM this morning. Fortunately, there was no wind, and it was dry. Only a slight patina of ice encrusted Mr. Nitro's windshield this morning, and it was quickly and easily removed with a squirt and cycle of the wipers. It was so cold, however, that once Mr. Nitro got underway, the residual washer fluid instantaneously froze, and it was necessary to repeat the process several times during the grueling, five-block drive to my office.

Fighting Back, No TLC, -and- Do As He Says

Fighting Back - kids chase lemonade stand robber, phone police
No TLC - women dressed as nurses target Florida shoppers
Do As He Says - Gore's electrical usage up 10% over last year

On this day in history: June 18, 1996 - Ted Kaczynski is indicted on ten criminal counts. He is suspected of being the Unabomber, who perpetrated 16 bomb attacks on people involved in technology.

Born on this day in history: June 18, 1942 - Paul McCartney (1942– ) Born in Liverpool, England, musician, songwriter and composer Paul McCartney found fame as one of the Fab Four Beatles. After the group?s 1970 breakup, he performed solo and with his own bands. In 1978, he was declared the most successful composer of all time, playing his 3000th concert in St Petersburg in 2004. McCartney was knighted in 1997.

Scripture of the Day: "But will God really dwell on earth with men? The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!" - 2 Chronicles 6:18

Video of the Day: Challenger: Faster than a Speeding Bullitt? - submitted by Darin

I saw this scene near Corning Lake this morning. Click to enlarge.

For dinner last evening, we had Johnsonville brat sandwiches. Laura grilled Johnsonville brats and Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts (to be used in a future meal). When the brats were nearly done, she split two in half and topped them with Provolone cheese. She toasted two sourdough buns on the grill. At the table, we added thinly-sliced red onion, Klausen Stackers, and hot dog mustard. Ruffles sour cream and onion potato chips accompanied the meal. It was delicious.

Somebody's Watching You, Animal Kingdom, -and- Go Tell Al!

Somebody's Watching You - "Big Brother" database for phones and emails planned
Animal Kingdom - lost parrot tells veterinarian his address
Go Tell Al! - snow to meet Memorial Day hikers in Vermont

On this day in history: May 22, 1954 - 400 people attend the Bar Mitzvah for Bob Dylan (Robert Allen Zimmerman) in Hibbing, Minnesota. He later converts to Christianity in 1979.

Born on this day in history: May 22, 1970 - Naomi Campbell (1970-) Born in London, model and actress Naomi Campbell is one of the most renowned supermodels. She was the first black woman to appear on the covers of French and British Vogue. Campbell has also appeared in several music videos and films. She has been linked with high-profile love interests Mike Tyson, Robert De Niro and Usher.

Scripture of the Day: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. - Galatians 5:22-23

Video of the Day: Redneck Art Made with BBQ Ribs

This redneck seafood platter is the special at a local fine-dining
establishment. Click to enlarge.

The wind continues! The wind that has plagued us for the last few days continues. Weather.com shows the wind currently at 17 MPH. Gusts, however, are 30-45 MPH. It is hideous. Hopefully, this wind will abate prior to Memorial Day weekend!

Heat of the Moment, Quiet Please!, -and- Swoop!

Heat of the Moment - scientists meet in NYC to challenge Gore, UN
Quiet Please! - six days in county jail for overdue books
Swoop! - vultures ripping apart roofs, chewing cars, in Florida

On this day in history: March 5, 1982 - John Belushi found dead at the Chateau Marmont in Hollywood from a cocaine and heroin overdose. A sketchy woman, Cathy Smith, is later charged with administering the fatal injections.

Born on this day in history: March 5, 1958 - Andy Gibb (1958-1988) Born in Manchester, England, youngest of the Gibb Brothers, singer Andy Gibb belongs to the world-famous Bee Gees group. The group personifies 1970s disco music, and has sold more than 100 million records.

Scripture of the Day: Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

Video of the Day: Leopard Looks After a Baby Baboon - submitted by Cindy

It was a beautiful morning, so I decided to take a drive before going to my
office. I encountered this scene in the foothills near Corning. Click to
enlarge.

Laura was feeling much better and went to work yesterday morning. As the day progressed, however, she became increasingly ill and left early. She is staying home today. I pray for her speedy recovery.

The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing. Great Scott, could this be an early spring? While the concept is a pleasant one, certainly, it is highly unlikely that we have seen the last of the cold, wet weather. We shall, however, enjoy this beautiful weather while it lasts!

I have been watching a series on The Science Channel entitled "Download: The True Story of the Internet." It is an interesting series. I find it particularly interesting, since I clearly recall the events from my personal experience.

Heat of the Moment, Moms Gone Wild, -and- Be Afraid

Heat of the Moment - Weather Channel founder advocates suing Al Gore over "the fraud of global warming"
Moms Gone Wild - women brawl at Chuck E. Cheese over video game
Be Afraid - town to vote on Silly String ban

On this day in history: March 4, 1861 - The "Stars and Bars" is formally adopted as the flag of the Confederate States of America.

Born on this day in history: March 4, 1958 - Patricia Heaton (1958-) Born in Bay Village, Oh., actress Patricia Heaton made her Broadway debut in gospel musical "Don't Get God Started." In 1996, she landed the role of Debra Barone on hit sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," which won her an Emmy. Heaton has now branched out into film.

Scripture of the Day: When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. - Colossians 3:4

Video of the Day: Cute Baby Tiger - submitted by Cindy

CHOMP! Click to enlarge.

This promises to be yet another beautiful day! The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing loudly.

I have suffered with a cold for the last several days. I am nearly recovered now, but it was an unpleasant bout. This morning, Laura exhibited symptoms of this affliction and is currently evaluating whether to go to work or stay home and rest. I pray that she is quickly fully recovered.

Update - 7:30 AM: Laura just called and said she is feeling better and is going to work. She prayed for healing (as did I, of course), and she said that the Holy Spirit prompted her to walk out in faith that she would be healed!

Let's Trade!, Is It Art?, -and- Heat of the Moment

Let's Trade! - parents agree to swap children after birth mix-up
Is It Art? - Frenchwoman on trial for kissing painting
Heat of the Moment - judge rules Gore climate film requires guidance notes

On this day in history: October 10, 1994 - Evel Knievel is arrested in a Sunnyvale, California topless bar for beating 22-year-old girlfriend Krystal Kennedy back at the Comfort Inn motel.

Born on this day in history: October 10, 1813 - Giuseppe Verdi (1813 - 1901) composer He was the leading opera composer in the 19th c.; his works include "Rigoletto," 1851; "Il trovatore," 1853; "La traviata," 1853.

Scripture of the Day: "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:20-21)

Video of the Day: Monkey Dance - submitted by Chris

Here is a photograph I took of a friend's cat approximately ten years ago.
Click to enlarge.

I arose and walked to the bedroom window this morning and saw that it had rained during the night. I took a shaved and took a shower. I was dressing when the alarm clock awakened me! Imagine my disappointment when I realized I would have to do it all over again!

For dinner last evening, I placed three boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large casserole dish, seasoned with Red Monkey Cajun spice, layered sliced onions, fresh baby spinach, sliced red bell pepper, sliced white mushrooms, and three heads of peeled garlic cloves. I sprinkled more Red Monkey Cajun spice atop the vegetables, affixed the lid, and cooked for 40 minutes in the microwave, on power level three. It was delicious.

Fighting Back, Heat of the Moment, -and- The Wrong Stuff

Fighting Back - intruder's ear cut off during home invasion
Heat of the Moment - activists take Al Gore to task over his diet
The Wrong Stuff - Buzz Aldrin: Novak should be "admired"

On this day in history: September 10, 1977 - Convicted torture-killer Hamida Djandoubi, an immigrant from Tunisia, becomes the last person executed by France when he is guillotined in Marseilles.

Born on this day in history: September 10, 1929 - Arnold Palmer (1929 - ____) golfer. He was the first to win the Masters Tournament four times and the first to earn $1,000,000 in tournament prize money.

Scripture of the Day: “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” (Isaiah 46:4)

Video of the Day: Mike Huckabee responds to evolution question - submitted by Donny

The sky is darkened from the smoke of fires. The sun hangs in the sky like an orange-red fireball. The humidity is great. It could be worse. I thank God for the day he has given us and praise his holy name. I celebrate this day and am thankful that the fires are not here. It could be worse.

Seconds following my writing that, it did get worse! A cretin burst into my office with a laptop in her hand—the power cable following behind her. As the door closed, the plug on the power cord became caught in the door. The woman dislodged the power cord from the door and began a loud, fast-paced rant about problems she was having with the laptop. Her diatribe was difficult to follow, but I managed to ascertain that she had purchased the unit (a Dell, of all things!) at Wal-Mart Friday evening. Apparently, all was well until her niece used the unit Saturday evening. Following that, random problems and general slowdown has plagued the system.

I said, "It sounds as though your system is infected. It probably has been infected with spyware and, possibly, viruses. Do you not have anti-spyware and anti-virus applications loaded?" "How should I know?" she responded. "You are correct," I said. "There is no reason whatever to imagine that you should be expected to know anything." I smiled. The smile was not returned. "So, what are you going to do?" she asked. "I am going to recommend that you consult Wal-Mart and determine what they recommend you do." "I called them," she said, "and they said to call Dell." "In that case," I said, "I am going to recommend that you consult Dell and determine what they recommend you do." I smiled. Once again, the smile was not returned. "I called them," she said, "and they said the warranty didn't cover what's wrong with it."

I said, "If you wish me to address the issue, I could make an appointment to do so tomorrow at 1 PM. I estimate repairs will take an hour, and the charge will be $60.00." "Why should I have to pay anything? It's brand-new!" she screeched. "You are right!" I said. "Ask your niece to pay the $60.00!" "She doesn't have any money!" she spat, as though this were something of which I should be aware.

"I recommend, then, that you find someone with the desire to perform repairs on your computer at no charge. You shall not find that person here, so I suggest you begin your quest elsewhere." She departed. Once again, the power cord became caught in the door. She jerked violently on the power cord and managed to rip the plug from the cord. "Now see what you've done!" she screamed. I offered no response. She slithered off into the gloom of the morning.

The Deep, Ribbit!, -and- Tell It to Al Gore

The Deep - fisherman catches "living fossil"
Ribbit! - woman nearly croaks with frog in salad
Tell It to Al Gore - Elton John: shut down the Internet

On this day in history: August 2, 1876 - Drinking at a saloon in Deadwood, Dakota Territory, Jack McCall notices Wild Bill Hickok playing poker at a corner table. Then he calmly walks over to the table and blows a wide hole in the back of Hickok's head with a .45 revolver. The professional gambler and onetime lawman was holding a pair of aces and a pair of eights, now known as the "Dead Man's Hand."

Born on this day in history: August 2, 1924 - James Baldwin (1924 - 1987) novelist, essayist He was a noted spokesman for American blacks in 1950s-60s.

Today's Video: Battle on Haifa Street - submitted by Phillip

Last evening, Laura and I attended a crusade at Harvest Christian Center. Laura sang in the choir during worship, prior to the sermon by evangelist David Woods. Rev. Woods is a world-famous evangelist from Portland, OR. His sermon was powerful and was followed by an altar call, at which several were delivered from bondage and others were healed of afflictions. This was the third evening of the crusade, which continues through Friday.

Rotten Apple, Hic!, -and- 911

Rotten Apple - Steve Jobs proposes Al Gore for president
Hic! - drunk driver not arrested, dies in crash hours later
911 - girl calls for police help over messy room

On this day in history: May 23, 1934 - A group of FBI agents and police officers from two states ambush Bonnie and Clyde on a highway near Gibsland, Louisiana. The men open fire as the bank robbers drive past the concealed posse, unloading hundreds of rounds into the car.

Born on this day in history: May 23, 1933 - Joan Collins (1933 - ____) actress. She played Alexis Carrington Colby on TV soap opera "Dynasty," 1981-89.

Today's Video: A Tribute to Rube Goldberg - submitted by Frank

VIDEOS: The videos are now available via the link "Amazing and Amusing Videos" in the Links section, below the visitor counter.

Here is Al Gore, displaying his conservation skills. How many trees died to make this mess? Click to enlarge.

The wind that has plagued us continues. It continues, however, with considerably less vigor than it displayed yesterday and Monday. Yesterday, the wind was so fierce that there were storm warnings posted for the Tidy Bowl Man. Hopefully, this wind will soon diminish greatly—leaving only a gentle breeze. Otherwise, the weather is perfect. The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds would be singing were the wind to abate.

Satan Slept Here, Lost!, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Satan Slept Here - hotel replaces Bible with Gore's global-warming book
Lost! - lawyer sues dry cleaners for $67 million for losing trousers
The Kids Are Alright - 4-year-old saves mother by calling 911

On this day in history: May 2, 1957 - Mob figure Frank Costello is shot in the head by Vincent "the Chin" Gigante. Instead of killing him, the bullet circumnavigates between his skin and cranium, exiting through the original wound. Costello retires from the Mafia soon after.

Born on this day in history: May 2, 1903 - Benjamin Spock (1903 - 1998) physician, author. He was a major influence on modern U.S. child-rearing practices; "Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care," 1946 has sold millions of copies.

Today's Video: Chase Scene from "Bullit"

VIDEOS: The videos are now available via the link "Amazing and Amusing Videos" in the Links section, below the visitor counter.

Today's video is the chase scene from "Bullit." In my opinion, this is the greatest movie chase scene ever filmed. A friend and I were in San Francisco while the movie was being filmed. We had no idea what was taking place until we inquired why the street was blocked off and why such a crowd of people had gathered. We did not get to see much, other than a very brief glimpse of the Mustang chasing the Charger. We were excited to have accidentally happened upon this event, however, and eagerly awaited the release of the movie. At that time, I was a Ford enthusiast and had a 1966 Ford Mustang GT. Understandably, I cheered Steve McQueen as he chased the 1968 Dodge Charger with his 1968 Ford Mustang. In 1980, I became a Dodge enthusiast and have purchased only Dodge products since then. Understandably, I now cheer for the Dodge Charger—even though I am fully aware of the outcome of the chase!