just marlene being marlene

Measuring

2012-02-09T08:26:00.000-05:00

We'll be buying some home office furniture and I've got a flyer that lists the measurements.

Rather than measure on the floor, I had the bright idea to make a template out of newspapers, and simply lay that template down in the 2 spaces that I'm envisioning the furniture will go.

The outer dimensions are 60" by 60".

I started taping 2 pages of newspaper together, using the dining table while Peter was finishing the sports section while drinking his coffee.

Me: "Let's see. This page measures 23" long. Two pages would be 46". I wonder how much more I need for 60".

Peter: I'm outtahere. Before I hear "well, you've got the engineering degree".

Oh, puh-lease. As if I'd ever say that.

Well, okay. Maybe once I have.

Or twice.

Ha!

Overheard at work

2012-02-04T06:22:00.001-05:00

"Cinco de Mayo always falls on a Saturday."

Really?

From Yahoo

2012-02-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

I found this best to work in a blank browser page.

Stare at the red dot on this woman's nose for thirty seconds. Then, look over at a blank white space (a piece of paper or an empty browser tab will do). Did you see the "correct" version of the image? Here's how it works: stare long enough at an object and the eye's photoreceptors (particularly the color-sensitive cone cells) lose sensitivity from overstimulation. Divert the eyes to a blank space, and the surrounding cone cells send out a much stronger signal. The brain interprets this discrepancy as looking at the precise opposite colors, in what is known as a 'negative afterimage.' Nifty, no?

Fenway's report card

2012-02-02T16:11:00.001-05:00

Every day that she is picked from doggie daycare, we look at her daily report card.
And every day it says, among other things, "Played in the pool in the morning, rested in the afternoon."

I'm off today and while she certainly didn't play in the pool this morning, she's sticking to her afternoon routine.

Not bad, for a hound from the pound.

Fenway and Daisy

2012-01-31T19:35:00.002-05:00

Her new found friend, Daisy.

Think Different

2012-01-28T14:04:00.001-05:00

From December 2011 Roads & Bridges (a trade rag)

With the cost of everything from gas to tolls going up, wouldn't it be nice to skip those annoying licensing fees? Before his passing in October, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs figured out how.

At Apple's Cupertino, CA offices, everyone knew that the silver Mercedes SL55 AMG in the parking lot with no license plates belonged to Jobs. What no one could figure out is how Jobs was able to get away without the plates.

Former Apple senior security officer, Jon Callas, recently revealed that Jobs simply found a legal loophole that anyone (with enough money) can take advantage of.

In California, any driver with a brand-new car has six months to acquire plates. Whether out of rebellion or just concern for his security, Jobs preferred not to be associated with a license-plate number, so he simply leased a new car every six months, exchanging each SL55 AMG for an identical new one.

Fenway at doggie daycare

2012-01-27T06:14:00.000-05:00

For this we pay $25 a day?

Absolutely no interest in that tennis ball.

Fenway in the mix. (She's in the middle, on the slide. Look for the red collar.)

She's very busy at that doggie daycare.

I've lost a blouse. And the hanger it was on.

2012-01-27T06:10:00.001-05:00

The most recent time that I did laundry, I had all 3 uniform blouses.

I immediately take them out of the washer, and hang them to dry.

Each of them are on one-of-a-kind hangers, and, once dry, I immediately hang them on my top rack of closet so I can easily see them.

Each time I wear one, I note that I've got "x" more till I need to wash darks again.

Except .... now there's only 2 of those hangers in my closet. Where's the blouse? Where's the hanger?

Initially we thought that I may have gotten one mixed up with Peter's polo shirts (since I hang them after I steam them). We looked through his closet, but my blouse wasn't there.

I've gone through my entire top rack, bottom rack and floor of closet. No blouse, no hanger.

I've looked through the dirty clothes. Nope.

Where, oh where, can it be?

Very weird.

Love in the Time of Cholera

2012-01-26T10:00:00.001-05:00

This book has appeared on several book lists, and I've read about it several times in print.

I requested it from the library, and after waiting many weeks for it, it was finally available.

I started reading it this morning, up to page 30, and thought "gee, this is strange, so far it's just been several synopses of the book."

I looked at the cover. Lo and behold, here's what it says:

Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations

And the contents is 10+ interpretations of the story.
It's like a Cliff Notes version of the book.

So ... how do I get the actual book?

The Adventures of Fenway

2012-01-17T08:16:00.001-05:00

Fenway is to receive her monthly heartworm preventative pill on the 16th.
Ok, today's the 17th. Oops. Close enough.

The drill this morning went something like this:

Round 1
- I took half a slice of cheese and wrapped it around the pill. Cheese was swallowed, pill was spit out.

Round 2
- Tried to shove pill down her throat. Pill was spit out.

Round 3
- Repeated Round 2, this time smoothing outside of her throat, hoping to ease it down. Pill was spit out.

Round 4
- I got out the cutting board and sharp knife, cut the pill in small pieces, took the other half of cheese slice and cut it in small pieces, and put all this in her bowl.

At last, Success.

Ta dah!

Watchdog

2012-01-14T13:24:00.000-05:00

I feel safe.

The things people say

2012-01-13T04:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, when people talk to me, it pains me to listen to them.
And their ignorance.

Instance: a guy at work said "Oh, I've been to Fenway Park. It's really cool, with all the vendors outside the park, the Green Monster, all the fans getting into the game. And during the 7th inning stretch, sometimes they play Sweet Clementine.

Really, dude?

Excuse me, it's Sweet Caroline.
And it's played in the middle of the 8th inning.
And it's played at every home game.

Fenway, the watchdog

2012-01-10T08:14:00.001-05:00

Peter said that, when I left last evening, Fenway laid facing the door.
For 1 hour.
Just waiting for me to come back.
And that's a dog.

Overheard at dinner on Saturday night

2012-01-08T06:13:00.002-05:00

There was a couple walking into the restaurant at the same time we were.

I overheard the wife say "I could live here."

I wanted to turn around and say "Right, honey, any chump can live here in January. Come down April thru October and see if you feel the same way. And don't stay for just one week. Stay the entire 7 months. Which include hurricane season."

One of my favorite mantras is:
If you're not here for the summer,
you don't deserve the winter.

Social Security statement

2012-01-07T04:41:00.003-05:00

I wonder how soon, before a birthday, the annual
social security statement is sent out.

Tiger's Ex bulldozes $12 million home

2012-01-06T14:08:00.000-05:00

In West Palm Beach, FL.

Before

After

My, my, haven't we come a long way from being a nanny.

Current read

2012-01-05T09:43:00.000-05:00

While I don't intend to read repeated authors, I fnd that I'm drawn to a certain few.
Not by choice, just by happenstance of walking the library shelves.

There's a great quote in my current read, "Sing You Home" by Jodi Picoult. The book runs a whole gamut of topics: Gay rights, alcoholism, right wing Christianity.

Both lesbian partners go to one of the girls' mom to announce the news of the newfound sexuality.
And both are concerned that the mom will be extremely disappointed.

The mom replies: "Disown her? Don't be ridiculous. She said she was a lesbian. Not a Republican."

The best news from the Iowa caucus:

2012-01-05T09:33:00.001-05:00

Michele Bachman is out of the running.

That woman is scary.

Cool, from Woodfield Mall

2011-12-15T07:54:00.002-05:00

As much disdain as I have for T-Mobil, I've got to say this is indeed very cool.

Greatest Card Trick Ever

2011-12-12T07:45:00.001-05:00

Bakken Shale oil region

2011-12-10T04:11:00.002-05:00

The North Dakota DOT has announced that there will be several billion dollars of transportation work (roadway and rail) associated with the infrastructure improvements in Bakken Shale oil region of the state. Starting in 2012.

Word has it that there will be 90 Construction Engineering Inspection (CEI) contracts let.

Peter has been asked if he's interested.

Saturday night at Rusty Pelican

2011-12-06T12:03:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday, Peter's company Christmas party was held at Rusty Pelican in Clearwater.

Very nice.

Me and Peter

Me and Peter's boss, Steve.
A proud Florida Gator.
Him, not me.

Kitchen is done!

2011-12-01T16:31:00.000-05:00

Finally.

It all started with a faucet leak. Which lead to mold under the sink.

Immediately had the faucet replaced.

When the restoration company was working on the mold remediation, they removed the previous granite.
And broke it.

Since I never liked the original granite (from day one), we had the granite replaced. Color: Absolute Black. Love it.

And since I always wanted a 60/40 sink ... well, this was the time to do it.

I'm pleased.

Ohio State hires Urban Meyer

2011-11-29T07:09:00.000-05:00

When Urban Meyer left University of FL, he claimed it was for health reasons.

That was a year ago.

Now he's signed a 4-year contract with Ohio State. One of the richest contracts ever in college sports.

Base annual salary is $400,000. Plus bonuses, for everything from players' graduation rates to playing in a national championship.

He will also receive an annual automobile stipend, a golf club membership (yawn), 50 hours of private jet use and 12 tickets to each home game. Overall, Ohio State will invest at least $26.65 million over six years in Meyer.

And all of a sudden Urban Meyer feels fine.

Hell, I'd feel fine, too.

77 Vette

2011-11-20T14:26:00.000-05:00

I was chatting with a guy in Pogo, while playing pinochle.

He's got a 1977 Corvette, with 32,000 miles on it.

Is he nuts?

Drive it, dude.

Red light running

2011-11-20T05:28:00.000-05:00

Cameras are constantly being installed.
People are receiving notices in the mail. $158 fine.
Big brother is watching you.

I heard from someone at work, and we all know what experts there are at work, that spraying your license tag with cooking oil will reflect a glare onto the camera.

I think I'll try it.

Now what's he going to do?

2011-11-19T14:23:00.000-05:00

Here's the program from the ribbon cutting ceremony.
It's always great when the road project starts.
But then the road is built, and ....

Ah, the Road Construction Management business.
Not for the faint of heart.

Tebow, Tebow, Tebow

2011-11-19T06:23:00.001-05:00

All this talk about the Denver Tebows. And Tim's sloppy pass. And how he'll never be a Tom Brady or Payton Manning.

Now, I don't know a lot about football. Just enough to engage in a conversation, over the course of 2 hours, with one of the sports fanatics at work.

My viewpoint was that it doesn't matter how sloppy his pass is, a Win is a Win. No matter how ugly.

I was able to contribute my theory: Tim Tebow needs to find himself a supermodel girlfriend.

With wings.

True story

2011-11-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

During my niece's recent visit, she stayed at the Marriott Courtyard downtown. Below is her conversation with the valet attendant:

Valet: What's your room number?
Vanessa: Four ten
Valet: Are you sure?
Vanessa: Yes. Why?
Valet: The room numbers are usually 3 digits.

Florida.

My mom and my niece

2011-11-14T12:46:00.000-05:00

They're both great and I love 'em.

Chelsea Clinton

2011-11-14T12:22:00.002-05:00

From MSNBC:

Chelsea Clinton will be working on-air for NBC News, the network announced on Monday. The former first daughter will be a "special correspondent" for NBC "Nightly News" and its new primetime newsmagazine, "Rock Center With Brian Williams"--essentially working on stories that fit within NBC's "Making a Difference" franchise, the network said.

Clinton will be joining another former first daughter at NBC. Jenna Bush Hager, the daughter of George W. Bush, has been a "Today" show correspondent since 2009. Earlier this month, Meghan McCain, daughter of John, was named as a contributor to MSNBC.

We all remember Jenna Bush. The one that could have had a White House wedding, but instead chose to get married in Crawford, TX.

No comment.

Fenway and her Mohawk

2011-11-12T14:42:00.000-05:00

My niece is in town, from Seattle. She just took these 2 pics.

Thank you, Governor Scott

2011-11-06T09:36:00.000-05:00

From this morning's newspaper:

Congratulations to the governor, who last week learned the name of a major region in the state he governs. It's called Tampa Bay.

There are even several pro sports teams that use the name. "Does the region call itself the Tampa Bay region? Is that what it calls itself?" Gov. Scott asked last week while discussing the St. Petersburg Times' forthcoming name change to the Tampa Bay Times.

Next week's lesson? The Panhandle.

It's that time again

2011-11-06T09:32:00.000-05:00

Every year I like to flip through the newspaper supplement from Target, that specializes in toys for Christmas.

Just as a matter of curiosity. To see how much $ parents waste on toys. I always wonder "do your children have the essentials that they need, i.e. eyeglasses, braces for teeth, etc."

I overhear conversations in the workplace (at all of the places that I've worked through the years), and the parents are making themselves crazy over all these toys. Have to get the best one, have to get the latest one, have to get the limited edition one.

Sometimes the child is an infant (or is it toddler? I can never remember which one is younger). And I always think of the Christmas morning pictures, where the parents are laughing about how the kid would rather play with the wrapping paper and ribbon rather than the toys.

And they spent how much on toys???

Final homecoming of the season

2011-11-05T07:24:00.000-04:00

Last night was the final high school homecoming for TampaBayVettes' participation. That makes a total of 14 high schools and 119 total vehicles used.

Here's me and my friend, Susan, one picture taken at each of our vehicles.

Our Vette was dirty, as it had been sitting outside all week. But the school needed vehicles to support their candidates, so I drove over to the school and wiped it down using a Maguire's product that one of the members had. The shine is OK. Not the best, but a helluva lot better than it was when I drove over there.

A blurb from today's Creative Loafing newspaper

2011-10-27T07:54:00.000-04:00

I think this is a great response to those who think that the Occupy Tampa movement is similar to the Tea Party.

From behind the wheel of an air-conditioned BMW or Ford F-150 with Bocephus blaring, perhaps one protest looks like any other protest. Both groups are filled with, you know, people. They chant and wave placards. However, if you look closely, the Occupy Movement knows how to spell.

Don't compare them to something ignorant just because you don't understand. Shut up and listen to what they have to say. Bring them some lunch, a few bottles of water, or maybe a kind word if that's all you got.

You might learn something.

Do you think Fenway is making a statement?

2011-10-24T14:10:00.000-04:00

That's the door strip.

Every time she's left alone, she rips it off the door. The original strip was screwed into the door.
And when we'd come there would be a trail of bolts on the floor, next to the strip.

So we thought we outfoxed her by getting an adhesive backed strip.

Well, as you can see, this isn't exactly working out.

One evening she shoved it under the door, into the hallway.

She does not like to be left alone.

Brat.

$40 million renovation to St. Pete Times Forum

2011-10-18T07:04:00.001-04:00

And the owner, Jeff Vinik, said he has no immediate plans to ask Hillsborough County to reimburse him, not even in part.

"Not on my horizon. What matters now is that we did what's right for the community and what's right for the building."

Still, he's putting his money into a county-owned building.

They lost two 300-level sections and 8 suites to create sight lines from the lower concourse into the arena bowl. Seating capacity dropped to 19,204 from 19,758.

Now, I ask, how many other team owners would this?

We know for sure ... not Rich DeVos.

New work schedule starts tonight

2011-10-17T19:08:00.000-04:00

It's the first night of overnights. We'll see how this goes.

Hopefully good.

Some things I like, some things I don't like

2011-10-17T06:31:00.000-04:00

Things I like

Kids with glasses
3-legged dogs
Mens cardigan sweaters with patches on the sleeves
Men smoking cigars
Corduroy
Muffs
Nuts On Clark
Cinnamon mentos
Frette linens
Signature Lounge on 96th floor of John Hancock building (my favorite place in the world)
Black cloth napkins
Italian restaurants with red and white checked tablecloths
Nighttime
Bloody Marys (with celery salt on the rim) in the morning
Black seamed stockings
Kir
Monogrammed stationary
Belted Galloway cows
Double deck pinochle
Coming home as the sun is coming up
Reuben sandwiches
Tugboats
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Casinos
Sushi
Chopstix
Las Vegas
Foreign movies with English subtitles
Grand Ole Opry
Houston, TX
Lake Shore Drive
Interior pocket doors
Sumo wrestling
Elvis
Bill Clinton
Southwest Airlines
The Kennedys
Cherry Garcia ice cream
Hardback books
Blue Moon
Chimay
Chief Blackhawk statue
Kites
Suspenders
Spring training games
Tequila Rose
Bulls balls on pickup trucks
Naked chick mudflaps
Public transportation
Nighthawks by Edwin Hopper

Strong desire to visit Tokyo, Japan
Long black wool coats
4th of July
Peonies
Grand Ole Opry
Mens' shoes with tassels
Candlelight
Logos
Barrel pencil sharpeners
First day of winter (a/k/a the shortest day of the year)
Black opaque tights
Kid Rock

Things I really.don't.like

Executive wives
Home schooling
Men smoking pipes
Starbucks
Ponytails at nape of neck
Grown men with red hair
Panini sandwiches
Blueberries
Starlight mints
Sweet potatoes
Pumpkin pie
Football
Above ground utility lines
Babies in grocery store carts. With their butts sitting on the surface where I put my bread and eggs.
Ann Coulter
Sarah Palin
George W. Bush
Jazz
T-Mobil
Rural roads
Tattoos
Wedge heels
Ankle bracelets
Mullet haircuts
Thanksgiving
Strapless dresses
Sleeveless blouses
Capri pants
Plastic tablecloths
Ceiling fans with light fixtures
Little black dresses referred to as LBDs
Overuse of the word "actually"
French manicures
A waste of a college degree

Another high school homecoming

2011-10-16T06:52:00.000-04:00

Last Friday night we participated in yet another high school homecoming. Here's a few pictures from that evening.

Me and Peter, before the festivities.

Me and the teacher that was in charge of the homecoming activities. Candice and I have been coordinating this particular school's homecomings for about 3 consecutive years. She's a joy to work with.

Maureen, me, and Vicki. Waiting for the half-time festivities.

Just horsin' around while waiting for the real candidates.

The real candidate.

Ready to roll.

Does this make sense?

2011-10-14T06:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterday a deputy walked into a school crosswalk, ahead of students. The driver of an SUV came speeding up to the crossing and slammed on the brakes, stopping mere feet from the deputy.

Next time might not be so lucky, deputies say. The crosswalk has become "too hazardous" for kids.

So authorities are doing something. They're removing the crossing guard at the busy crosswalk.

They hope the change will encourage kids and their parents to use bus services that the school district recently added.

I've got one word to say.

Florida.

Cubs fans, start planning the parade route

2011-10-12T08:15:00.000-04:00

For a World Series championship celebration in 8 years.

That's how long it took Theo with the RedSox, before ending their 86-year drought in 2004.

Good luck to you and enjoy the ride.

It's a blast.

Paul McCartney got married today

2011-10-09T19:06:00.000-04:00

On what would have been John Lennon's 71st birthday.

Beautiful girl. An American.

Beautiful dress. Covered shoulders and long sleeves. She looks lovely.

Yes, that's Barbara Walters in red. She's second cousin to the bride. Word has it that she introduced the couple to each other.

Movie star doggie

2011-09-12T20:03:00.000-04:00

Fenway's report card at doggie daycare today: Rested in shade, played in pool.

What do they say? Dog's Life? Ha!

A few pics from our recent Bahamas cruise

2011-09-11T05:23:00.000-04:00

You-know-who

2011-08-29T21:33:00.000-04:00

Poolside at doggie daycare.

Spoiled rotten brat.

Fenway's first visit to the groomer

2011-08-19T20:38:00.000-04:00

Veronica (the groomer) said Fenway was the best dog that she had all day.
Veronica also stated that Fenway is so different from Maguire.
I wanted to chime in "in more ways than one".
But, alas, I refrained.

2 conversations overheard at work

2011-08-19T14:24:00.000-04:00

1.
Other: I need to get my driver's license renewed. I've got to go to the DOV.
Me: You mean DMV.
Other: No, DOV. Department of Motor Vehicles
Me: (no response. that conversation was over.)

2.
Several of my co-workers are applying for promotions and/or other positions within the organization.
I overheard one say to another: "I want to appraise you for applying for that position."

Appraise??? Shouldn't it be either 'applaud' or 'praise'? The particular individual that said it is very ghetto-ish and likes to throw around big words (not that appraise is a big word) to make herself look smart.

But she's just stupid.

Mom, look at these pictures

2011-08-19T05:10:00.000-04:00

Peter's brother, Fred (the avid sailing guy) sent these pictures a few days ago. They were taken 17 years ago, when Fred and Bobbi came down from Massachusetts. The 3 of them went sailing in St. Pete for the day.

Look how young Peter looks. No gray hair. Oh my.

Fenway has a boyfriend

2011-08-10T09:43:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, when I picked up Fenway at doggie daycare, the receptionist said:
"Your girl has a boyfriend."
It was pouring rain outside, lightning and thunder, and the rain was making a lot of noise on the roof, and I thought I heard "your girl has a boil". Oh no.
Me: What?
Receptionist: She has a boyfriend. He was by her side all day.
Me: Oh yeah? What's his name?
Receptionist: Nougat. He's a little Yorkie.

My thoughts: Right. As if. Fenway must outweigh him by about 25 lbs. Ha!

The receptionist explained to me that Nougat was in for his Evaluation Day and he immediately took to Fenway.

I must interject here that everyday Fenway's daily report reads: Pool in a.m.; Rested in p.m.

But it seems like Nougat did not let her rest yesterday afternoon. She slept in her dog couch all evening. Translation: did not meander to her flying saucer (my term for her circular dog bed) or under the dining table, or under the coffee table or to her computer pillow. She slept through the night in her dog bed, which is next to ours.

Both Fenway and I are home today. I'm sure Nougat passed with flying colors and perhaps he's back at doggie daycare today. Looking for Fenway.

Oh, she's such a floozie.
(I say lovingly.)

Fenway graduated

2011-07-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

Fenway completed her Beginning dog class. One could say that she graduated. I'd hardly use that phrase. Completed, yes, but she's still got a lot to learn.

In my opinion, she was tied for Salutatorian.
Out of a class of 2.

All the problems of the world ... solved

2011-07-22T08:24:00.002-04:00

I was chatting with a gentleman while he was waiting for his hotel airport shuttle. He's from Georgia, grew up in Alabama.

We agreed on all the following:

Why do we have to press "1" for English?
The U.S. should deal with problems in this country before helping other countries.
There are children in the Appalachian mountains (and other parts of this country) that need school books, braces, eyeglasses, etc. and we should be helping our own before helping others.
Haliburton. Oh, that was a conversation. They got a no-bid contract to rebuild Iraq. And who was the head of Haliburton at the time? Yep. Dick Cheney. Did.that.not.stink?
Bill Clinton was the best president ever.

And then the guy had to leave.

June Cleaver I'm Not

2011-07-22T07:04:00.000-04:00

Heat wave across the country

2011-07-19T20:36:00.000-04:00

I get such a buzz out of listening to the weather reports on TV.

"Oh, it's so hot across the plains and the midwest and New England."

Right.

For about a week.
Or 2.
Max.

I had this bright idea ...

2011-07-19T20:31:00.001-04:00

.... to, maybe, list 1,000 things about myself for my 1,000 post on this blog.

Sounded like a good idea. And I've started my list over a week ago. But, I'm currently on post #725. And I THINK that would be maybe 250 more to go? Or something like that. (Math was never my strong suit).

And since I haven't been posting as frequently as I used to .... it would take quite awhile for my idea to come to fruition. I currently have 60 items on my list.

We'll see how this little project goes.

Stay tuned.

Fenway at Doggie Day Care today

2011-07-12T19:15:00.000-04:00

Movie star doggie.

Milwaukee Brewers

2011-07-09T21:06:00.000-04:00

While watching the RedSox on NESN tonight, the feed simultaneously broadcast in Spanish. After several attempts (translation: pushing several different buttons on the remote) to clear the double speak, I finally flipped to the station above the current one.

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Cincinnati Reds.

Conversation:

M: There you go, you could watch the Brewers. (laughing)
P: Don't laugh, they're doing very well.
M: Are they going to be in the World Series?
P: Could be.
M: Oh, as if. What about the Phillies?
P: Phillies are favored. But the Brewers could come in as an upset. Anything can happen.
M: What about the Cubs?
P: They're waiting for Spring training.

Aww, Peter, how you talk about the Cubbies.

Fenway sleeping

2011-07-07T22:21:00.000-04:00

Very strange, don't you think? I mean ... with the head on the floor???? Dog.

(The steamer trunk is one my grandmother brought over on the boat.
In its original condition.)

Been there, done that

2011-07-06T12:50:00.001-04:00

There's an article in this month's issue of a women's magazine, that states Kennebunkport, Maine is THE place to go this summer.

On our many trips up to Boston, we went to Kennebunkport. Once. It's a quick trip. Oh, you know how teeny those New England states are. Blink and you're through the 6 (or is it 7 or 8) exits of New Hampshire. Ah, but I digress. Kennebunkport is only a 90-minute drive from Boston.

There's a point to all this rambling. We walked around the quaint shops, albeit briefly. The shops were filled with George Bush merchandise. Both 41 and 43. Oh, puh-lease. Get.me.out.of.here.

The shopkeepers would ask: Are you here to see the Presidents? (Note: plural.)

It was all I could do to keep from screaming out "No, all I want to see is the nearest exit road outtahere."

We've never been back.

Maine, yes. But not Kennebunkport.

Show me the way to Hyannis!

Or Hope, Arkansas.

Fabulous, the rap star

2011-07-04T17:02:00.001-04:00

The discussion at work this morning was about music artists. A song by Fabulous came on, and one of the girls stated that he mentions his own name in every one of his songs.

"And there's even one where he spells his name...
F a b a l o u s"

What???

Blind Allegiance

2011-07-01T17:49:00.000-04:00

I had to quit reading it. It was just too much. While true, it got very monotonous.

That one won't make my "read" bookshelf.

A mind of her own

2011-06-30T17:00:00.000-04:00

This dog will not step one foot on the grass unless it's her idea.

We were outside. It's drizzling. Fixin' to downpour. I'm on the grass. She's on the sidewalk.

Brat.

3 email notifications

2011-06-30T08:01:00.001-04:00

While I was going through the rigamarole of returning my lost library book, 3 email notifications came in regarding books I had requested.

Oh no. I had just started a new yesterday afternoon and now there were 3 new ones. Fortunately I was able to pick them up while I was there.

I put my just-started book aside last night, and started:

I hope it slams her. I'm pretty sure it will. If it doesn't, the book will go back to the library way sooner than its 3-week checkout time.

Library book

2011-06-30T06:04:00.000-04:00

I took my "found" library back last night. With my receipt.

I think it's safe to say that not too many people pay for lost books, then find them and return them to the library to ask for their $ back.

I originally went to the Information desk. She sent me to the checkout person.

The checkout person had no idea how to do the refund. She asked the Information person, who wasn't sure how to do it, either.

Checkout person made 3 different phone calls within the library.

But, alas, the form was found and printed and filled out.

I even got a copy of it. Wow.

Now we'll see how long it takes to receive my reimbursement check.

The lost has been found

2011-06-27T21:33:00.000-04:00

A few months ago I had to pay a replacement fee for a lost library book. Full replacement value of $25.

The library gave me a receipt and said that I had 2 years to find the book and return it. Then I'd get my money back.

I kept their receipt, as I knew I'd eventually come across the book. I mean, it's not like it grew legs and walked away.

Yesterday I found the book. It had fallen behind the bookcase, off the shelf where I keep all my library books.

Yay!
$25 for me.

I'm not making this up

2011-06-26T17:24:00.001-04:00

From the website of a downtown ice cream eatery that we frequent.

I've got one word to say.
Florida

Conversation overheard at the beach yesterday

2011-06-25T04:06:00.001-04:00

I'm not making this up. I could only hear bits and pieces, but I know what I heard when 2 20-ish girls were chatting:

Girl A: I can name 8 things about blah blah blah.
Girl B: Oh yeah? What are they?
Girl A: One, (I forgot what was said, or couldn't hear all of it)
Girl A: Two, (couldn't hear)
Girl A: Three, (couldn't hear)
Girl A: Four, (couldn't hear)
Girl A: Five, (couldn't hear)
Girl A: Seven (couldn't hear)
Girl A: Eight (couldn't hear)

And their conversation continued.
I will refrain from making any comments about not being able to count.
In Florida.

Current library read

2011-06-23T11:34:00.003-04:00

Old Man and the Sea

One slight problem. There's no chapters.

Just.one.long.story.

Jury duty interrupts Palin bus tour

2011-06-23T10:03:00.000-04:00

I love how Sarah Palin keeps referring to herself as "a former governor" rather than as "a-governor-who-quit-in-the-middle-of-the-term."

"The coming weeks are tight because civic duty calls (like most everyone else, even former governors get called up for jury duty) and I look forward to doing my part just like every other Alaskan,"

Lone Star Candidate Kicks Off 2012 Bid

2011-06-22T21:39:00.002-04:00

Rick Perry will be running on the slogan, "What Harm Could a Texas Governor Do?"

He's kidding, right?

Can you say 2001-2009?

Fantastic customer service

2011-06-22T08:59:00.000-04:00

Peter is having the windshield replaced on his company vehicle today. This is his AutoGlass service reminder:

Your Appointment
Vehicle Information
Insurance Claim: No
Service Area: xxxx
Make/Model:
FORD EXPLORER xxxx
Service Type: Replace
Service Information
Work Order Number: xxxx-xxxx
Address:
xxxxxxx
City/State/ZIP:
Sarasota, FL 34232
Service Date/Time:
Wednesday
06/22/2011
08:00AM - 12:00PM
Customer Information
Customer Name:
xxxxxx, PETER
E-mail Address:
xxxxx@xxx.com
Home Phone:
xxx-xxx-xxxx
Work Phone:
xxx-xxx-xxxx
Contact Phone:
xxx-xxx-xxxx

The confirmation also included information on assigned technician:

ULISES XXXX
Mobile Technician

ULISES, a mobile technician with our company, will be arriving at your requested location to meet your auto glass needs. ULISES has successfully completed our extensive certification program and has passed all given motor vehicle, drug and background screenings. You can trust ULISES to install your auto glass in a courteous and professional manner.
Since 1947, our companies have repaired and installed more auto glass than any other company in the United States. Our more than 9,000 associates specialize in just auto glass. And, as the only auto glass companies that operate in all 50 states, only we can offer a national lifetime warranty to give you and your family peace of mind wherever your travels take you.
If you have questions about your appointment, or if you need to make a change, please call xxx-xxx-xxxx during regular business hours.
We look forward to serving you.

I've never seen anything like this and I think it's fantastic. I mean, a company is actually communicating.
What a concept!

Tomorrow's the first day of summer

2011-06-20T21:46:00.000-04:00

My least favorite day of the year. The longest day of the year. All those hours of daylight. And sun.

Yuck.

So ... this girl at work says

2011-06-14T17:14:00.000-04:00

I was talking to one of the girls at work and about her daughters' upcoming dance lessons.

Me: So ... when does it start?
Her: This month.
Me: That's great. How many of your daughters are taking the class.
Her: All 4.

We chatted about the different dances that they'll be involved in, and I asked "how much does it cost?
And she replied: "$100 per month".

I asked if that was for each daughter, and she said "no, that's for all of them. $50 for the first girl and $25 for each additional."

I know I'm not that good at math, but ...

Fenway's first report card

2011-06-13T16:34:00.000-04:00

Today was Fenway's first day at doggie day care. She experiences such horrific separation anxiety when left alone in a crate for nearly 8 hours. We really had to find a solution. The veterinarian suggested doggie day care.

She made friends today. Played with a German Shepard, a Jack Russell, and I forget the others. I was so shocked when I was looking at the report card. (I was shocked that it was so commendable. Ha!)

She even swam in their pool. Talk about a dog's life. Not a bad gig.

She's exhausted right now. Sound asleep on her computer pillow that's on the floor next to me.

Some musings from my recent trip

2011-06-10T20:44:00.000-04:00

At Freddy's Steak House - I had to request the RedSox vs Yankees game. Everyone else was watching the Seattle Mariners vs Chicago White Sox. What's up with that?

One of the customers asked me if I knew who won the hockey game the previous night. His words: that Canadian team of the Brewers? I looked at him in total disbelief. Brewers? Um, why would a baseball team be in the Stanley Cup Finals? He was too ignorant for me to even talk to.

I didn't know that you could turn right on a red traffic light. One morning a lady behind me honked her horn and flapped her arms. Apparently because I wasn't proceeding. I wanted to get out of the car and say: "Look, when you come to Florida and drive slow and look at your map while driving, I don't honk at you. So just shutup".

And, lastly, there was a guy that I was chatting with at the bar at Freddy's. We were talking baseball, hometowns, etc. He asked me what my plans were for after dinner. I replied that I was going to the Horseshoe Casino. He proceeded to tell me about blackjack and offered to go with me, but only if we went in his car. What???? First of all, he acted like he was doing me a favor by going to the casino with me. (As if I needed him.) Secondly, there's no way I would get in his car. No way. No how. Ever.

Needless to say, the conversation very quickly.

My trip to Chicago

2011-06-10T20:37:00.000-04:00

I flew up to Chicago earlier this week for a funeral service of my favorite aunt, Kutchy. Her death was sudden and she'll be missed by many, many people.

She has a lovely family and it was quite moving to her husband, her 9 children and their spouses, their children and grandchildren all walk down the center aisle of the service. The boys were handsome, the girls were beautiful. At that moment I don't think there was a dry eye in the house.

After the service we all went to a restaurant for lunch and the mood lightened considerably. There was mingling and laughter and picture taking.

What a great family and I love all my relatives.

8:00am

2011-06-05T08:13:00.000-04:00

First words of today:

Those were the worst 11 seconds in Bruins history.

What were they thinking? This is the f'n finals.

They've been watching too many RedSox reruns.

Oh, it's going to be a long day.

It's 5:00am, and I already know it's not going to be a good day

2011-06-05T05:32:00.000-04:00

Vancouver has a 2-0 series lead over the Bruins.

Game 1, Vancouver won in the final 18.5 seconds of the regulation game.

Game 2, Vancouver won in 11 seconds into OT.

Yes, the Bruins finally got a power play goal in the game. I heard that it's their first power play goal in the playoffs. So there was happiness in our household for a bit.

I gave up on the game at 10pm last night. Fenway and I went to sleep. I just checked ESPN online, and saw the devastating news.

Yes, the Bruins have been in this situation (can you say Montreal?) and have pulled it out. But I think the most sickening thing about last night's loss is that the Canuck that scored the winning goal is Alex Burrows. The player that bit the finger of Patrice Bergeron. With no disciplinary action from the league.

Next game is Monday night. In Boston. Needless to say, it will be a very intense evening.

Peter loves the RedSox. And he loves the Celtics. And he loves the Patriots. But his #1 favorite Boston team is the Bruins.

(I've already brewed a pot of coffee. Fenway and I will quietly read this morning's newspaper. Not.even.going.to.wake.up.Peter. Nope, not today.)

Just how much of an idiot is she?

2011-06-03T20:17:00.002-04:00

Paul Revere warned the British? Are you kidding me????

Nobody could possibly be this stupid.

Pictures of the new family pest

2011-06-02T06:33:00.000-04:00

I mean pet.

Look

2011-05-30T15:57:00.002-04:00

They finally steam cleaned the outside employee break area. What a concept!

Article from my oldest brother

2011-05-29T12:26:00.000-04:00

Mom, John sent this to me. I'll bring the article with on next weekend's visit.

Fenway update

2011-05-28T19:46:00.000-04:00

She has issues (house breaking), but she's 97% a good dog.
Tonight I signed her up for obedience training, starting next Monday at 8pm, for 6 weeks.
We'll see how that goes.
She seems to want to please, but is most unhappy when left alone.
When we're with her, her halo shines.

We got her!!!

2011-05-22T21:13:00.000-04:00

So far, so good. She's real mellow. Catches on quickly. Took a 1 1/2 hour nap with us this afternoon (in Maguire's old bed). I had no problem walking her down 4 flights of stairs to go outside.

I hope this good behavior continues. Hope, hope, hope.

Oh, her name is Fenway.
As in Pahk.

Almost brought her home

2011-05-20T16:08:00.000-04:00

What a cutie! Great disposition (translation: calm). 30 lbs. (a bit bigger than I had planned). But she's a real doll (beauty is in the eyes of the beholder).

She's got that mutt look to her (because she is!) that I love so much.

Peter and I will swing by there late Sunday afternoon so he can see her, too.

I hope she's still available.

Bruins billboards

2011-05-19T19:50:00.000-04:00

These billboards were seen around TD Garden in Boston:

Going to look at these 2 today

2011-05-18T10:08:00.000-04:00

Just looking.

Current name is Marco. He's at a pet shelter down near Gulfport.

Current name is Dymo. He's at local pet rescue shelter.

Again ... just looking.

One's too big, one's too small

2011-05-15T21:07:00.000-04:00

This one's too big.

This one's too small.

Is there a match that's in between? This dog search is starting to make me nutz. Maybe I should just let it go for a few days.

I've searched online at craiglist, humane societies for surrounding counties. I've visited the local humane society. I'm tempted to post on FaceBook, but I don't want to insult my friends when they think they've come up with the perfecrt match.

Oh well, I'll just keep prodding along. One will come along one day.

Katie

2011-05-14T22:40:00.002-04:00

Katie is a beautiful 3 yr old female Poodle/Bichon mix that weighs 18 lbs. She was rescued from a kill shelter and is very lucky to be receiving a second chance at life.
Nothing is known about Katie prior to her arrival other than it is apparent that she was a product of an unfortunate past of neglect, mistreatment and lack of socialization. She still struggles with trust and dominance issues with both people and other animals.

It is unknown how far Katie can be brought around but unconditional love and patience can work miracles. Although she has shown much improvement in many areas she is capable of biting so ONLY a home without children and other animals will be considered at this time.

Dominance issues??? Capable of biting????
I don't think so.
Pass.

Dinner last night

2011-05-13T14:15:00.001-04:00

I met Mimi in Orlando for dinner last night. Her choice was Julie's Waterfront Cafe. (They should change the name to Julie's Waterfront Shanty. Ha!)
I've been there a few times when I lived in Orlando. Truly a place for locals.

As you can tell by our hair, the humidity is starting to set in. It's getting to be that time of year.

Believe me, I kept looking for a gator to creep up out of this water.

Not a bad lake. If one likes lakes.

Sudoku for dummies

2011-05-12T07:49:00.000-04:00

This book really isn't meant to be funny

2011-05-11T13:17:00.000-04:00

But some of the lines are striking me as hilarious. Maybe I just need some good humor.

(1) "He wore a multi-color Hawaiin shirt that looked like a paint factory drop cloth."

(2) "You know, I realized all of a sudden that this is Valentine's Day and here I drop in and you and your wife probably had plans. Didn't mean to spoil 'em."

"We had a romantic little luncheon together. We did what all Chicagoans do to honor the day."

"What's that?"

"Shot up a garage."

Book from library

2011-05-11T12:31:00.000-04:00

I haven't gotten any books from the library lately because (1) I've lost a book at work and had to pay full replacement value for it; and (2) I nearly lost another book at work just a few weeks ago. But now that I've Sudoku'd myself out, it's time for books again.

I'm on page 4 of my latest book, and ohmygosh, there was a phrase that made me laugh out loud:
"Fishing, it seems to me, exists solely to provide the world with a more boring pastime than golf."

My sentiments exactly. Perfect summation.

This pitiful town

2011-05-11T04:45:00.006-04:00

I received this email from Tampa Downtown Partnership:

Dear Marlene,

The Tampa Bay Lightning will open the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Boston Bruins on Saturday, May 14 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts at 8 p.m. The Bolts will hit home ice for the first time in Game 3 on Thursday, May 19 at the St. Pete Times Forum.

Single-game tickets for the Eastern Conference Finals start as low as $40 and will go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, May 13 at 10 a.m. A pre-sale will be held beginning Wednesday, May 11, at 10 a.m. for full and half season ticket holders, suite holders, sponsors and individuals looking to purchase 10-packs. To purchase tickets fans are advised to visit the McDonald's Box Office at the St. Pete Times Forum, www.ticketmaster.com/lightningplayoffs or call 1-800-745-3000.

Game        Date                     Location                       Time
Game 1     Sat., May 14       TD Garden                         8 p.m.
Game 2      Tues., May 17       TD Garden                         8 p.m.
Game 3     Thurs., May 19    St. Pete Times Forum     8 p.m.
Game 4     Sat., May 21         St. Pete Times Forum     1:30 p.m.*
Game 5**   Mon., May 23       TD Garden                        8 p.m.
Game 6** Wed., May 25     St. Pete Times Forum     8 p.m.
Game 7**    Fri., May 27          TD Garden                        8 p.m.

* - Time subject to change
** - If Necessary

GO BOLTS!!!

OK, that's cool. But ... I heard on the radio, as I was coming home from work, the DJ said: I think the first Lightning game is Sunday.

You THINK???
Shouldn't you KNOW?

I'm sure that in Boston they know the exact dates and times.
But, that's up there.
And this is down here.

Alabama tornado victims

2011-05-10T20:49:00.000-04:00

A member of our Corvette club has relatives in Alabama. After speaking with her a few days ago, I posted this notice on all floors of our condo:

The other night I heard rustling outside the door, figuring that it was one of the residents dropping off some bags. Here they are:

The white sheet of paper reads:

Gotta love that!

Arnold and Maria to split

2011-05-10T03:58:00.001-04:00

Ohmygosh, they've separated. Is he an idiot, or what? She is such a fox!

In a May 2009 commencement speech at the University of Southern California, Schwarzenegger alluded to the powerful influence Shriver had on his life. He said when people ask him the secret to success, "I say, number one, come to America. Number two, work your butt off. And number three, marry a Kennedy."

He came to America, not speaking a word of English, ends up marrying into the Kennedy family. I'll refrain from making further comment.

I'm not making this up

2011-05-08T03:06:00.000-04:00

One of my co-workers asked: Are there 2 n's at the end of Indiana?

Me: What???

Him: I always get that mixed up.

Me (thinking): Are you kidding me?

Lightning Coach quote

2011-05-05T16:20:00.000-04:00

After last night's win: "If you focus on what the team has done in the past and what they've been, and you'll be lost in what you're supposed to do now. If the RedSox would have thought that their 40-year (World Series) drought was going to last another 100 years, they never would have won."

40-year drought?
Ha!
If only.

This morning's breakfast run

2011-05-01T12:37:00.000-04:00

The monthly TBV breakfast run was held today, since Easter was last Sunday.
The route consisted of a bit of interstate, and then a whole bunch of back roads.
A lesser number of vehicles showed than usual. Some say it's the cost of gas, others say it's love bug season.

Here's a pic of Jackie, Theresa (Club VP) and me.