Fighting Back, No Place Like Home, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Fighting Back - FDNY chief protects son, fights off child snatcher
No Place Like Home - NYC woman lives 90 years in same apartment
The Kids Are Alright - teen honored for pulling man from burning truck

On this day in history: May 19, 1536 - In the first public execution of an English queen, Anne Boleyn is beheaded. In her speech, Boleyn has nothing but good things to say about her husband, Henry VIII: "I pray God save the king and send him long to reign over you, for a gentler nor a more merciful prince was there never: and to me he was ever a good, a gentle and sovereign lord."

Born on this day in history: May 19, 1925 - Malcolm X (1925 - 1965) Born Malcolm Little in Omaha, NE, activist Malcolm X spent 10 years in prison for burglary (1946), where he discovered the anti-white Black Muslims. He came to national attention via writings and a TV documentary (1959) that portrayed him as a threat to white people. Breaking with the Muslims (1964), he worked to internationalize the Afro-American struggle, forming the Organization of African American Unity. Assassinated in New York City, Malcolm X remains a powerful influence and transformed a generation of African-Americans.

Scripture of the Day: Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. — 1 Peter 5:6-7

Video of the Day: 1200 BHP Twin supercharged 1974 Chevy Corvette - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene! Click to enlarge.

Laura's journey continues!

Outside El Charro

Inside El Charro




El Charro art



El Charro wall mural



Chicken Mole



Carnita Tamale



Cathy and her tacos



Shopping with sister Cathy



Shopping

Fighting Back, Animal Kingdom, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Fighting Back - armed customer kills robber at Burger King
Animal Kingdom - two komodo dragons maul fruit-picker to death
The Kids Are Alright - girl's lemonade stand earns $24,000 for cancer

On this day in history: March 25, 1967 - As part of Operation Green Mist, the U.S. Army detonates explosive warheads containing the deadly sarin nerve agent at Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve on the big island of Hawaii. The open-air tests are kept secret for more than thirty years.

Born on this day in history: March 25, 1934 - Gloria Steinem (1934 - ) Born in Toledo, OH, feminist and writer Gloria Steinem began as a journalist, attracting attention with an article, "I Was a Playboy Bunny," based on undercover work. In 1971, she joined other feminists in forming the National Women's Political Caucus, and took the lead in launching "Ms magazine" (1972). Steinem has been working for social reform ever since.

Scripture of the Day: Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. - Psalm 37:16-17

Video of the Day: Guitarist - the iPhone Guitar

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The Best Stir-fry Dinner Ever! I made stir fry last evening. In the wok, I stir-fried sliced white mushrooms, sliced white onion, slivered Jalapeños, grated ginger, minced garlic, bias-cut carrots, and bias-cut celery. I seasoned with adobo seasoning, red pepper flakes, ground black pepper, and the seasoning packets from two packages of ramen noodles. When the vegetables were cooked, I incorporated two packages of ramen noodles that I had cooked and drained while the vegetables cooked. I then added the ingredient that made this the best stir-fry dinner ever: I tossed a quantity of thinly sliced, grilled New York strip steak that remained from our Sunday dinner. I turned off the heat so that the steak would warm but not continue cooking and took the wok to the table. It was delightful. A quantity of leftover stir fry followed me to the office this morning.

Stupid Criminals, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Animal Kingdom

Stupid Criminals - gangster accidently shoots himself, in critical condition
The Kids Are Alright - teen scales fence, saves drowning girl
Animal Kingdom - parrot given award for alerting owner about choking baby

On this day in history: March 24, 1989 - Exxon tanker Valdez, piloted by a drunk captain, strikes a well-charted reef at Prince William sound, spilling 11 million gallons of crude oil.

Born on this day in history: March 24, 1930 - Steve McQueen (1930 - 1980) Born in Slater, MO, actor Steve McQueen became famous in TV Western "Wanted Dead or Alive" (1958), which led to a co-starring role in "The Magnificent Seven" (1960). He became the archetypal 1960s cinema hero/rebel.

Scripture of the Day: The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot. - Proverbs 10:7

Video of the Day: "Bullitt" - car chase scene

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving past the park on my way to work! Click to enlarge.

Anticipation: Our iPhones should arrive today. I say that without certainty, since of late my experience with next-day FedEx has not been particularly stellar. The iPhones were ordered last Friday. Theoretically, I would have expected them to appear here yesterday. There was an issue with the order, however, and this was not resolved until yesterday morning at 8:01 AM. Given that, I would expect the iPhones to arrive today. As I say, however, my experience with next-day FedEx has me musing the possibilities—only one of which (and not necessarily the most likely) is that the iPhones will arrive today.

I have several applications awaiting the arrival of the iPhones—including a Mah-Jong app, a guitar app, and a Bible app. Today, I shall continue investigating the available apps and prepare a few more for installation. I shall, of course, continue to stare trance-like into the live feed from the Web cam on my Desktop—waiting...ever waiting, for the FedEx truck to appear in there!

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.

The Kids Are Alright, Drive, -and- Mush!

The Kids Are Alright - 9-year-old boy rescues girl from pitbull
Drive - 6-year-old boy takes parents' car after missing bus
Mush! - Minnesota sled-dog race cancelled due to excessive snow

On this day in history: January 8, 1991 - Guitarist Steve Clark from Def Leppard found dead from a drug and alcohol overdose. He was 31.

Born on this day in history: January 8, 1935 - Elvis Presley (1935 - 1977) Born in Tupelo, MS, pop singer Elvis Presley caused a national sensation on "Ed Sullivan's Talk of the Town" in 1956 because of his "scandalous" pelvic gyrations. That same year, he released his first million-selling single, "Heartbreak Hotel," and starred in the first of 33 films. After 1974, Presley became drug-dependent, spending his last years living reclusively at his Memphis home, Graceland.

Scripture of the Day: The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him. - Lamentations 3:25

Video of the Day: White and Nerdy in Lego - submitted by Jay

Mr. Nitro has been Google-ized! The Google camera car caught Mr. Nitro napping on a Saturday morning. Click to enlarge.

Recommended Site:
David Louis Harter Photography - a showcase for the photography of David Louis Harter

Top Things for 2008!
Top Mug Shots of 2008!
Sports Illustrated Photos of the Year
Best Quotes of 2008
Naughtiest and Nicest CEOs of 2008
Funniest Stories of 2008

Some of my fondest memories of my youth center about an enterprise that once operated on Highway 99W, just outside of Corning—The Snake Pit! The Snake Pit was an excellent venue for a young boy who has a fascination with snakes. Dangerous snakes could be viewed there at close range, without danger. When I-5 was completed, The Snake Pit closed. Like many businesses along Highway 99W, The Snake Pit was a victim of new freeway. Travelers no longer passed these businesses, and they quickly became shuttered. The owner of The Snake Pit is rumored to have loosed all the snakes into the adjacent field.

I have ferreted through all my historical photographs of Corning, and I have not found any photographs of The Snake Pit. PLEASE: If you have photographs of The Snake Pit, bring them to my office, so that I may scan them and add them to my collection of historical photographs of Corning! If you are distant, please mail them to me. I shall scan them and return them to you within 24 hours of receiving them, and I promise to treat them with the greatest of care! Thank you.

Armed and Dangerous, Animal Kingdom, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Armed and Dangerous - police chief teaching gun safety shoots himself in leg
Animal Kingdom - woman covers herself with 50 cats to stay warm
The Kids Are Alright - supermarket bag boy finds, returns $10,000

On this day in history: December 1, 1997 - Member of the Georgia Senate Ralph Abernathy attempts to smuggle marijuana into the US from Jamaica in his underwear. He is caught by a drug-sniffing canine and fined $500. Abernathy is the son of the famous civil rights leader of the same name who was Martin Luther King's lieutenant. In January he is censured by the Georgia State Senate.

Born on this day in history: December 1, 1939 - Lee Trevino (1939 - ) Born Dec. 1, 1939, near Dallas, TX. U.S. golfer. Of Mexican American descent, Trevino received a grade-school education, served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and worked as an odd-job man and assistant professional at golf courses in his native Texas. In 1967 he unexpectedly came in fifth in the U.S. Open, then won it the next year. In 1971 Trevino became the first player to win the U.S., British, and Canadian Open championships in a single year. He won the British Open in 1972 and the U.S. PGA Championship in 1974. He then underwent several back surgeries but returned to win the PGA again in 1984.

Scripture of the Day: Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. — Romans 12:1

Video of the Day: What Is Scientology? - from "Boston Legal"

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving past the lake behind my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
David Louis Harter Photography - a showcase for the photography of David Louis Harter

It was a bit difficult returning to the office, following a four-day hiatus! I quickly acclimated myself to lounging and napping. I accomplished very little over those four days, but I certainly did lounge and nap well!

It is December suddenly. This year will soon be ended, and it seems to me that the year has passed quickly. It does not seem all that long ago that doomsayers were predicting that when the clocks struck midnight on 12-31-1999, worldwide computer issues would cause the world as we knew it to somehow become irreversibly ineffectual technologically. I doubted this sincerely and eagerly awoke on the morning of January 1, 2000 to find things very much as they were when I had gone abed.

It seems as time passes, the more quickly it appears to pass!

The Kids Are Alright, Animal Kingdom, -and- The Name Game

The Kids Are Alright - 14-year-old jumps off bridge to rescue drowning suicidal senior
Animal Kingdom - pet rabbit hops to rescue to save owners from fire
The Name Game - Judge makes girl, 9, ward of court to dump 'Talula Does the Hula' name

On this day in history: July 25, 1999 - Woodstock '99 festival ends in looting and rioting, leaving 12 trailers burned, towers toppled, and several women raped during the course of the show. About 500 state troopers were needed to quell the mass uprising of peace and love, apparently triggered by overpriced vendors and commercialization.

Born on this day in history: July 25, 1954 - Walter Payton (1954 - 1999) Born in Columbia, Mississippi, football player Walter Payton of the Chicago Bears earned a National Football League record for rushing. Payton was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1993.

Scripture of the Day: Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. - Acts 7:25

Video of the Day: Human Skateboard by PES - submitted by Amber

The fire-red Sun hangs heavy in the post-apocalyptic sky! The wind continues to bring the smoke from smouldering wildfires into the city. The air quality is horrid and the birds are not singing!

Credit Where No Credit Due, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Matters of Life and Death

Credit Where No Credit Due - bank issues Visa cards to kids as young as 11
The Kids Are Alright - 10-year-old finds diamond rings, returns to owner
Matters of Life and Death - court affirms law calling unborn "living human beings"

On this day in history: July 1, 1946 - Atomic Bomb testing begins at Bikini Atoll.

Born on this day in history: July 1, 1945 - Debbie Harry (1945- ) Singer, actress. Born on July 1, 1945, in Miami, Florida. Harry later joined the Stilettos, a female trio. She met guitarist Chris Stein who became a member of the group. Over time, Stein and Harry became romantically involved. The two started their own band in 1974, which would turn into the world-famous Blondie. The new group played many of the legendary clubs in New York, including CBGB's and Max's Kansas City. Their music was considered to be new wave, a type of rock music inspired by punk and other music styles, such as reggae, ska, and funk. The band's first self-titled album was released in 1976. The next year the band toured in support of their second album "Plastic Letters," which scored the number two spot on British charts with the song "Denis." Their third album, "Parallel Lines" helped catapult them to pop music stardom. The song "Heart of Glass" reached the top of the U.S. charts in 1978. Harry was not only the lead vocalist for the group, she wrote many of the songs with Stein.

Scripture of the Day: O LORD my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me... - Psalm 7:1

Video of the Day: Rube Goldberg Dog Food Dispenser - submitted by Darin

For dinner last evening, I poured 1/4" of Almaden Merlot into a large sauté pan and placed a large pork loin (previously slow-roasted on the barbecue) in the center. Around this, I placed white potatoes (quartered), white onion (quartered), whole white mushrooms, whole Jalapeños, and Japanese eggplant (cut into 1-inch sections). I seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning. I covered and simmered this for three hours, without intervention. At the table, the vegetables were perfect and buttery, and the pork pulled without effort using dinner forks. It was incredibly delicious. A quantity of leftovers will follow Laura to Chico this morning.

A new California law takes effect today prohibiting mobile phone use while behind the wheel unless drivers are using a hands-free device or the speaker function. Motorists who are caught ignoring this new law face first-time fines of $20 and a total of $76 after penalty assessments are added. The citation will show up on driving records but no points will be assessed. A second offense will result in a $50 fine and a total of $190 after penalty assessments.

Our Father, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Flip this House

Our Father - pilots run out of fuel, pray, land near Jesus sign
The Kids Are Alright - 10-year-old boy honored for saving choking classmate's life
Flip this House - $230 million house world's most expensive

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, 1974 - Jewel (1974- ) Singer, songwriter. Born Jewel Kilcher on May 23, 1974, in Payson, Utah. A popular recording artist, Jewel grew up in Alaska. She began her musical career at the age of six, joining her parents, singer-songwriters Atz Kilcher and Nedra Carroll, on stage. After her parents divorced, Jewel continued to tour with her father for several years. When Jewel was fifteen, she made a major change in her life. She starting performing as a solo act and won a vocal scholarship to Interlochen, a private school in Michigan dedicated to the arts. While there, she began writing songs and took up the guitar. Jewel later moved to San Diego, California, to live with her mother. But she eventually branched out on her own, ending up living in a van for a time as she tried to make as a performer.

Scripture of the Day: May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. - 1 Thessalonians 5:23

Video of the Day: Hillary Cackle

Politics 2008 - the candidates. Click to enlarge.

The wind continues! The fierce wind that has plagued us for days continues! The temperatures are considerably lower than last week—in the mid-to-high 70s only! This is certainly not good weather for Memorial Day weekend and will not provide a pleasant environment for the fairs and many Memorial Day events. Hopefully, the wind will soon abate, the temperatures will rise, and this will become a warm, calm, and festive weekend!

Of course, it could be worse! One of my brothers and his family live in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Here are some photographs he took of the current fire-fighting activity near his home! Click to enlarge.

You Want Fries with That?, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Crime and Punishment

You Want Fries with That? - NY restaurant offers $175 burger
The Kids Are Alright - teen saves 5-year-old boy from drowning
Crime and Punishment - city to jail people who do not cut lawns

On this day in history: May 21, 1979 - A judge gives Dan White only seven years for the premeditated murders of Harvey Milk and Mayor Moscone, prompting thousands to march on San Francisco's City Hall. In what will come to be known as the White Night Riots, the demonstration takes a violent turn, resulting in significant property damage and the torching of twelve SFPD cruisers. Police respond with brutal beatdowns at gay bars in the Castro district.

Born on this day in history: May 21, 1917 - Raymond Burr (1917–93) 1957–66 Television actor, born in Westminster, Canada. Coming from Canada to study at Stanford University, he began as a stage actor, appearing in regional theatre before moving into television dramas and films. He starred as the burly detective in the "Perry Mason" (1957–66) and "Ironside" (1967–75) series, winning two Emmys. He went on to appear in several TV mini-series and in extended versions of Perry Mason.

Scripture of the Day: God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. - 2 Corinthians 5:21

Video of the Day: What Matters to You? - submitted by Amber

I saw this campaign button on a teller at the bank yesterday afternoon!

It is windy today! Today, we are plagued with a wind such as this part of the world has never previously experienced. It was all I could do to remain upright while walking from the parking lot behind my office to the front door of my office. Yikes! Hopefully, this wind will abate prior to the Memorial Day weekend. Also, it is forecast to be a relatively chilly 79 degrees today! This does not inspire the cavorting generally associated with Memorial Day weekend!

Hot Air, So Sue Me, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Hot Air - 31,000 scientists reject "global warming" agenda
So Sue Me - personal injury attorney slammed by fire tuck
The Kids Are Alright - twins to graduate as valedictorians

On this day in history: May 20, 1960 - Music DJ Alan Freed, originator of the term "Rock and Roll," is indicted in New York in the Payola scandal. Freed had accepted $30,650 from five record companies to play their records, although to be fair "pay for play" was the accepted practice up to that point.

Born on this day in history: May 20, 1946 - Cher (1946– ) Born Cherilyn La Piere Sarkisian in El Centro, CA, singer and actress Cher originally paired in a singing act with then-husband Salvatore "Sonny" Bono (1935-98), and was known for rock anthem "I Got You Babe" (1965). Cher found greater success on her own, as a singer and a stage and film actress, winning an Academy Award for "Moonstruck" (1987).

Scripture of the Day: Remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins. - James 5:20

Video of the Day: Dagon the Leopard Gecko - submitted by Danica

Our IRS incentive check arrived yesterday. Thank you, Mr. Bush!

It is forecast to be considerably cooler today. Yesterday the high was 95 degrees. Today, it is predicted to reach a relatively cool 83 degrees.

How Do You Feel?, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Do You Want Fries with That?

How Do You Feel? - over-the-phone lie detector catches "sick" employees
The Kids Are Alright - Michigan teen sells 17,328 boxes of Girl Scout cookies
Do You Want Fries with That? - Philly's $100 cheesesteak

On this day in history: May 16, 1995 - After receiving an anonymous tip that a runaway teen was hiding there, police in Coral Gables, Florida search Jennifer Capriati's motel room and uncover 20 grams of marijuana. The 18-year-old professional tennis player winds up diverted to a drug treatment program, avoiding a court trial.

Born on this day in history: May 16, 1966 - Janet Jackson (1966-) Born in Gary, IN, singer and songwriter Janet Jackson grew up in the show business family that included her five brothers, or The Jackson Five. She scored success with album "Control" (1986), which sold eight million copies, and went on to release several bestseller albums, developing a suggestive style of performing that fueled popularity.

Scripture of the Day: In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:16

Video of the Day: Cats on a Treadmill - submitted by Chris

Open wide! Click to enlarge.

For dinner last evening, we had BLTs. I broiled pre-cooked deli bacon in the oven, spread out on paper towels, in a large Pyrex baking dish. I thinly sliced a large tomato and a large red onion. Instead of the traditional Romaine lettuce, we used baby spinach. I toasted sourdough bread. At the table, Laura slathered mayonnaise on her bread, and I used Sierra Nevada Stout mustard and a bit of mayonnaise. The BLTs were delightful.

Freedom of Speech, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Just the Fats

Freedom of Speech - last day to save Christian radio?
The Kids Are Alright - Guinness names teen youngest professor
Just the Fats - 300-pound inmate complains jail doesn't feed him well

On this day in history: April 28, 1789 - In the middle of the South Pacific, the crew of the HMS Bounty mutinies, setting Captain William Bligh and 18 other crewmen adrift in an open boat.

Born on this day in history: April 28, 1974 - Penelope Cruz (1974– ) Born in Madrid, Spain, actress Penelope Cruz trained in classical ballet in New York City, and parlayed her dancing into an acting career, landing a role in "All the Pretty Horses" (2000) and "Sahara" (2005). Cruz has been romantically linked with actors Matt Damon, Tom Cruise and, most recently, Matthew McConaughey.

Scripture of the Day: They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. - Acts 4:28

Video of the Day: Cooking with Christopher Walken - submitted by Danica

Hillary shows her masculine side! Click to enlarge.

HOT! Yesterday was HOT! At 2:45 PM, Mr. Nitro's exterior temperature probe displayed 93 degrees, as Laura and I journeyed to a meeting at Harvest Christian Center! Today is considerably cooler. It is forecast to be 81 degrees this afternoon. It is forecast to drop significantly—to the low 70s—Tuesday and Wednesday.

One of my brothers came to dinner Saturday and Sunday. Saturday, I grilled New York strip steaks (marinated for four hours in extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Cabernet Sauvignon, and minced garlic), giant shrimp (marinated for four hours in extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice wine vinegar, and lime juice), and asparagus (poached lightly then tossed onto the grill and spayed with a mixture of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It was delicious.

Sunday, Laura grilled boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I marinated them for four hours in extra-virgin olive oil, grated ginger, garlic powder, brown sugar, lime juice, and soy sauce) and Johnsonville hot Italian sausage. I sautéed cubed baby red potatoes (I pre-cooked in boiling water for 5 minutes), green beans, thinly sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced white onion, and a head of peeled garlic (roughly chopped) in extra-virgin olive oil—seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, and sea salt. It was wonderful.

To Serve and Protect, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Ranch of Dark Shadows

To Serve and Protect - drunk cop asleep at wheel of patrol car
The Kids Are Alright - 11-year-old boy steered bus to avoid semi
Ranch of Dark Shadows - Texas cult accused of marrying pubescent girls

On this day in history: April 9, 1992 - Former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega convicted of drug trafficking, money laundering, and racketeering by a federal court in Miami.

Born on this day in history: April 9, 1933 - Jean-Paul Belmondo (1933– ) Actor, born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, NC France. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire, took part in provincial tours, and appeared in several films, but it was the film "A Bout de Souffle" (1959, "Breathless") which made him famous. Later films include "Le Voleur" (1967, "The Thief"), "Hold Up" (1985), "Peut-Être" (1999, "Perhaps"), and "Amazone" (2000).

Scripture of the Day: Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me -- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:9

Video of the Day: McCain Girls: Raining McCain - submitted by Amber

I took the long way to my office this morning and encountered this scene!
Click to enlarge.

Warm weather is coming! Today is forecast to be 72 degrees; Thursday is forecast to be 81 degrees; Friday is forecast to be 83 degrees; and Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be in the high 80s! YES!

For dinner last evening, I employed the remains of a large beef roast and the attendant juices from Sunday's dinner. I shredded the roast and simmered for two hours with two heads of peeled garlic cloves, a large sliced white onion, two large sliced Jalapeño peppers, three stalks of sliced celery, four large sliced white mushrooms, three cups of baby spinach leaves, a can of beef consommé, a half cup of Almaden Cabernet Sauvignon, two cups of brown rice, Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, sea salt, and ground cumin. It was delicious, and a great quantity remains for a future meal.

The Sky Isn't Falling, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Don't Call

The Sky Isn't Falling - world doesn't end, doomsday cult gives up
The Kids Are Alright - 3-year-old girl can swim over 400 meters
Don't Call - cell phones more dangerous than smoking

On this day in history: March 31, 1889 - Eiffel Tower completed.

Born on this day in history: March 31, 1943 - Christopher Walken (1943– ) Born in New York City, actor Christopher Walken made his Broadway debut at 16. His first big film role was in "The Anderson Tapes" (1971), and he won an Oscar for "The Deer Hunter" (1978). With an ability to play both sinister and comic roles, Walken has appeared in an enormous range of roles.

Scripture of the Day: Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence. - Proverbs 3:31-32

Video of the Day: US Navy SEALS Combat Swim

The storm that was forecast for Friday did not materialize. It was a sunny, warm weekend—although the wind was fierce. Had it not been for the wind, the weather would have been ideal.

Saturday afternoon, we snacked upon garlic Triscuits and artichoke-Parmesan dip and played a rousing game of Scrabble. We then watched "Transformers" on our new HD video system. The special effects were staggering, and we thoroughly enjoyed the movie.

Saturday evening, we enjoyed a grilled London broil, grilled Jalapeños, and grilled red potatoes. Laura grilled Johnsonville hot Italian sausage, also. This will be used to produce a pasta dish later in the week. Grilling the sausage significantly enhances the flavor.

Sunday—following service at Harvest Christian Center, we had a delightful brunch: I dry-rubbed tri-tip steaks with Tony Chachere's More Spice and ground black pepper, sprayed with olive oil Pam, and grilled on the indoor grill. Laura made potatoes O'Brien and sunny-side-up fried eggs. At the table, we added Tony Chachere's Louisiana hot sauce and crushed red peppers.

Sunday evening, we enjoyed BLTs, made with toasted garlic-cheddar sourdough bread.

Somebody's Watching You, This Land Was Your Land, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Somebody's Watching You - new surveillance camera sees through clothing
This Land Was Your Land - city taking brothers' land for private developer
The Kids Are Alright - teens rescue boy from avalanche

On this day in history: March 10, 1977 - Roman Polanski gives a thirteen-year old girl Quaaludes and molests her during a photo shoot at Jack Nicholson's home. He later flees the country to avoid statutory rape charges.

Born on this day in history: March 10, 1958 - Sharon Stone (1958-) Born in Meadville, PA, actor and producer Sharon Stone began as a model in the late 1970s. Her first notable film part came in "Total Recall" (1990), opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger. Stardom arrived when she landed the role of bisexual murder suspect in blockbuster "Basic Instinct," with Michael Douglas.

Scripture of the Day: All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law." Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, "The righteous will live by faith." - Galatians 3:10-11

Video of the Day: Al Gore Explains Global Warming - submitted by Frank

What is wrong with this picture? Look closely, and you will see that the magazine is in backwards! Yikes! Click to enlarge.

Dear Abby,

I am a 60-year-old woman who is married to a man who acts like he hates me.

In public, he pretends he loves me and talks about how wonderful I am. But in private, he shakes his finger in my face and calls me the "B" word.

He constantly tells me how ugly I am without make-up. I've tried everything, including a face-lift, botox treatments, and a chin tuck. I even went on a diet and lost 20 pounds.

He quit his job a few years ago after having an affair with a woman in his office. He hasn't even looked for another job. We haven't slept together since, I confronted him about the affair. He denied it, of course, but everybody knew it. It was humiliating. I believe he is still messing around.

While we both want to sell this house, we argue constantly about when to put it on the market. The house we want will be available in a few months.

My husband wants to put our house on the market now. I think we should wait a while. He has already started collecting boxes and packing up his stuff.

Do you think he is planning to leave me?

Signed,

Worried in NY

Dear Worried in NY:

I doubt it. He wants to move back into the White House as much as you do.

Praise God!, Watch This!, -and- The Kids Are Alright

Praise God! - 80% of Americans say they are Christians
Watch This! - man arrested after shooting self with nail gun
The Kids Are Alright - 11-year-old painter shares earnings with sick

On this day in history: December 26, 1996 - The body of Jon Benet Ramsey is found beaten and strangled in the Boulder, Colorado home of John and Patsy Ramsey. The case remains unsolved.

Born on this day in history: December 26, 1940 - Phil Spector (1940– ) Born in New York City, record producer and songwriter Phil Spector produced 20 hits in three years, working with artists like the Crystals and the Righteous Brothers. Spector is credited with creating a trademark "wall of sound."

Scripture of the Day: "Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.'" (Luke 2:28-32)

Video of the Day: How to Break up a Cat Fight - submitted by Phillip

Here is a photograph of the bridge over the Sacramento River near here. The bridge was filled with shoppers on their way to the mall to take advantage of after-Christmas sales. Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
Nikon Photographer Forum - a free forum for photography enthusiasts
Corning California Message Board - a free message board for Corning
Olive Hut Blog - specials, olive news, recipes, and more

BRRR! I became cold when I left the warmth of our house and walked to Mr. Nitro. I became colder yet when I saw the ice covering Mr. Nitro. When I boarded him, started his engine, and saw "28 degrees" displayed on his external temperature display, however, I very nearly returned to the house! Good sense prevailed, however, and here I am!