Walking In The Sunshine, singing a little sunshine song,
Put a smile on your face as if there's nothing wrong.
Think about a good time had a long time ago,
Think about forgetting about your worries and your woes,
Walking In The Sunshine, singing a little sunshine song.
La la la la la dee oh,
Whether the weather be rain or snow,
Pretending can make it real,
A snowy pasture, a green and grassy field.
Walking in the sunshine, sing a little sunshine song!
Roger Miller
SO MUCH FOR TRYING TO STAY HAPPY!:
National Weather Service Forecast - Non-Precipitation Warning for Everett and Vicinity Issued: 4:30 AM Jul 29 Will Expire: 4:30 PM Jul 29
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA 430 AM PDT WED JUL 29 2009 SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-EVERETT AND VICINITY-SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-TACOMA AREA-HOOD CANAL AREA-430 AM PDT WED
JUL 29 2009...
EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM PDT FRIDAY......
AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM PDT FRIDAY...
AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM PDT FRIDAY.
AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PMPDT FRIDAY.
HOT AND HUMID CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE THROUGH THURSDAY. HIGH TEMPERATURES FROM THE UPPER 80S TO 105 WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY RATHER HUMID CONDITIONS AND ONLY LIGHT BREEZES. TEMPERATURES AT NIGHT WILL REMAIN QUITE WARM...FALLING ONLY INTO THE 60S FOR A COUPLE HOURS LATE AT NIGHT IN MOST PLACES. RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE WIDESPREAD...AND SEATAC AIRPORT WILL LIKELY TIE OR BREAK ITS ALL TIME RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURE OF 100 DEGREES.
WHILE TODAY IS EXPECTED TO BE THE HOTTEST DAY OVERALL...THURSDAY WILL BE ONLY A DEGREE OR TWO COOLER IN MOST LOCATIONS. FRIDAY WILL BE SOMEWHAT COOLER AS THE LOW LEVEL FLOW TURNS ONSHORE ...BUT TEMPERATURES IN THE WESTERN WASHINGTON INTERIOR WILL STILL BE WELL ABOVE NORMAL WITH MANY SPOTS IN THE UPPER 80S TO MID 90S. IN ADDITION...THE STABLE AIR MASS WILL LIMIT DISPERSION OF OZONE POLLUTANTS AND AIR QUALITY WILL DETERIORATE.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING MEANS THAT A PROLONGED PERIOD OF DANGEROUSLY HOT TEMPERATURES WILL OCCUR. THE COMBINATION OF HOT TEMPERATURES AND HIGH HUMIDITY WILL COMBINE TO CREATE A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE LIKELY. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS...
STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOM... STAY OUT OF THE SUN...AND CHECK UP ON RELATIVES AND NEIGHBORS.
IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE BUILDUP OF POLLUTANTS...CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL AIR QUALITY AGENCY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
Finally I am getting around to writing about this; A "vacation" that our family went on when I was 9, in 1975. See my original post here; original . The current baking hot weather reminds me a bit of our trip, especially through northern California which was like talking a walk on the surface of the sun. Although, I think the sun might actually be cooler.
As our vacation approached we were still without a pickup type vehicle to tow our trailer. I can't remember exactly when we got it but I do remember the first time I saw the heap.
Growing up along my street, I was among an over abundance of boys that lived there. Only a few years separated the youngest to oldest. It seemed all the families had sons. Take mine for example; two brothers and one older sister. Each family had at least two boys, while if there was a girl, it was the only one in the sibling group. So, boys being boys we had lots of fun and sometimes trouble doing various things around the neighborhood.
One big topic of discussion was the best pickup to have; either Ford or Chevy. We'd take the arguments seriously, bickering the merits or demerits back and forth over each. I grew up in a Chevy household. I'd ridden in both and really preferred Chevy's over Fords, they were much nicer and I felt rode better than Fords. Besides, Chevy's looked cool Fords were ugly and rode like crap on the smoothest of roads.
The Ford proponents exclaimed that Ford stood for;
First
On
Race
Day
The Chevy's answered back with;
Fix
Or
Repair
Daily
or
Found
On
Road
Dead
or my fave;
Flip
Over
Read
Directions
There's a couple I know that I won't relate in this forum as they aren't exactly family friendly.
Just before it was time for us to go, Dad came home with our "new" pickup. I distinctly remember asking him if he brought it home, then running out to the driveway and seeing a rusty red oxide colored pile of Ford F100 pickup parked in the driveway. This was the first sign, or omen that this trip may not be the one I had envisioned. I ignored it though, being blissfully unaware of what was about to happen once we set out. I was however, disappointed in the choice of vehicle to haul us there and back again.
I came back inside mostly puzzled and asked Dad; "Where is it? I only see an old crappy Ford."
With a stone face that could have been on Mt Rushmore, he replied; "that is our new pickup".
Shocked, I went out again, this time not nearly as fast or enthusiastic to see if this was really true. Sure enough, it was. I walked up to it and looked in the drivers side window tried to wrench open the stubborn door. Phew! gasoline fumes. The door gave a deep creak when I yanked it open and it smelled of old burlap and rubber mingled with gas inside. I sure liked Chevy's better. Especially after riding around in the one we just got rid of.
This gave me the feeling that this was like staying in a hotel, in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable bed;
Rubber floor mats, a worn bench seat with a cover as rough as sandpaper to go with the funky odor that greeted me, instantly giving me a tinge of car sickness. As where our other truck had carpet and a comfy velour seat and had the great new car smell. Dad kept it as new as possible for as long as possible. He never carried anything in the bed that would scratch it. If he did, there was usually furniture pads or card board protecting the paint. A great big black stick shift towered over the middle of the seat. Doing the math, I wondered how are four people going to ride to California in this? Yet, being so excited to go, I was more than ready to overlook such things.
Dad said "You and Jeff can ride in the back so that we don't all have to be crammed into the cab". In the Chevy it was like a rolling couch in the front, gramma's feather bed in the back, piled with sleeping bags and pillows. I snoozed many a time in the back of our pickup while camping. Ol Rusty still needed a canopy to make it all work but I was warming up to this idea. However, I had developed quite a reputation of car sickness in my family. "Queasy Rider" became my unofficial moniker from my wise ass older brothers. I certainly didn't like it, both the name and putting my head in a bucket when the family (and vomit) hit the highway.
Traveling with me included the following; something to catch my stomach contents, towels/rags, water & surrendering the front seat to placate my upset tummy. Riding in the back of the car would toss my guts around something fierce, especially when Dad was driving. He drove as if he were on a track, hard into the corners making my insides do cartwheels. Usually nerves played a big role with my issues. Getting hyped up before we left on a trip usually lead to retching along a busy stretch of highway while my brothers groaned their displeasure from the back seat.
As it turns out, Dad got a deal on the pickup from a co-worker. $750 and was only a temporary fix until we got a new truck. I asked; "Does it have air conditioning?"
"Yes, it has "2-60" a/c", he said with a short grin. When he saw my puzzled look he clarified; "2 windows down, 60 mph". I seriously wondered if this thing could do 60, but again it was mostly overlooked by all the anticipation I was feeling about ending school and going to California for two whole weeks. The closer it got, the more the butterflies flitted about in my stomach.
Dad also pointed out since we didn't have a/c we'd be driving through Northern California at night because it is like an oven come summer time. Day time highs routinely surpass triple digits and you were literally out in the middle of nowhere. I think it was him who described it as a frying pan on a hot stove. I found that sort of funny because I don't recall my parents ever using the a/c all that much. It had to be boiling outside before we considered turning it on, because Dad said "It takes too much gas to run the air conditioner!".
I thought; "then why get it?". But I never dared to actually ask the question allowed in his presence.
The Ford lovers on the block were shocked to say the least that we got one. So was I. "Finally you got smart and bought a REAL truck!" they taunted.
Yeah, "real". As real as a pigs eye. Stay tuned, as the Pickard's hit the highway on their unforgettable Californian Adventurous Vacation!
Stay tuned as we get under way and make our first stop in southern Oregon and go visit Crater Lake.
Lewis doesn't really like the vet, but I bet he'd love a veteran
Welcome to the U.S. Senate; Al Franken, D MN.
From his op-ed in the Minneapolis Star Tribune;
Al Franken: A wounded veteran's best friend A chance encounter inspires my first bill: Legislation making the service dog program more affordable for our troops.
By AL FRANKEN
Last update: July 18, 2009 - 11:52 PM
In my first week as a U.S. senator, I had the privilege of participating in the Supreme Court confirmation hearing for Judge Sonia Sotomayor.
The hearing was historic -- but as I prepare to introduce my first piece of legislation, I've been thinking about an encounter I had away from the lights and cameras.
This January, I met Luis Carlos Montalvan and his service dog named Tuesday, a beautiful golden retriever, at an inaugural event in Washington.
Luis had been an intelligence officer in Iraq, rooting out corruption in Anbar Province. In 2005, Capt. Montalvan was the target of an assassination attempt. Now he walks with a cane and suffers from severe post-traumatic stress disorder.
Luis explained that he couldn't have made it to the inauguration if it weren't for his dog.
As someone who's spent time with our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan on USO tours and met wounded warriors at Walter Reed and Bethesda, I feel a deep obligation to the men and women who have risked life and limb on our behalf.
After I met Luis, I did some research. Service dogs like Tuesday can be of immense benefit to vets suffering from physical and emotional wounds. Yes, they provide companionship. But they can also detect changes in a person's breathing, perspiration or scent to anticipate and ward off an impending panic attack with some well-timed nuzzling. They are trained to let their masters know when it's time to take their medication and to wake them from terrifying nightmares.
Service dogs raise their masters' sense of well-being. There is evidence to suggest that increasing their numbers would reduce the alarming suicide rate among veterans, decrease the number of hospitalizations, and lower the cost of medications and human care.
Veterans report that service dogs help break their isolation. People will often avert their eyes when they see a wounded veteran. But when the veteran has a dog, the same people will come up and say hi to pet the dog and then strike up a conversation.
Luis got Tuesday from one of the nonprofit agencies around the country that trains service dogs. I visited one of them, Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, and saw dogs opening doors and answering phones. I saw a German shepherd named Pepsi pick a nickel off a tile floor and give it to a young woman in a wheelchair.
Unfortunately, few of these service dogs are available to veterans like Luis. It costs on average about $20,000 to train a service dog and another $5,000 to place the dog with the veteran. It is my strong belief that a service dog will more than pay for itself over its life, and my bill is designed to determine the return on investment with a pilot program that provides service dogs to hundreds of veterans.
My bill will help train a statistically significant number of dogs to measure the benefits to veterans with physical and emotional wounds. The program would be monitored and refined over a three-year period to optimize its effectiveness.
Frankly, I believe it is enough simply to improve the lives of those of whom we asked so much. But this program isn't just the right thing to do. It's the smart thing to do. This is win, win, win, win.
I've been a senator for only a few days. But I've learned that it's better to listen than to talk, that you don't have to be a lawyer to be impressed by a tremendous jurist like Judge Sotomayor, and that I enjoy working with my Republican colleagues as much as I do with my fellow Democrats.
Most of all, I've learned that a senator has the incredible privilege of doing things that make a real difference to real people like Luis. That's a privilege I will continue to cherish.
After I met Luis, I did some research. Service dogs like Tuesday can be of immense benefit to vets suffering from physical and emotional wounds. Yes, they provide companionship. But they can also detect changes in a person's breathing, perspiration or scent to anticipate and ward off an impending panic attack with some well-timed nuzzling. They are trained to let their masters know when it's time to take their medication and to wake them from terrifying nightmares. Service dogs raise their masters' sense of well-being. There is evidence to suggest that increasing their numbers would reduce the alarming suicide rate among veterans, decrease the number of hospitalizations, and lower the cost of medications and human care. Veterans report that service dogs help break their isolation. People will often avert their eyes when they see a wounded veteran. But when the veteran has a dog, the same people will come up and say hi to pet the dog and then strike up a conversation. Luis got Tuesday from one of the non-profit agencies around the country that trains service dogs. I visited one of them, Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, and saw dogs opening doors and answering phones. I saw a German shepherd named Pepsi pick a nickel off a tile floor and give it to a young woman in a wheelchair. Unfortunately, few of these service dogs are available to veterans like Luis. It costs on average about $20,000 to train a service dog and another $5,000 to place the dog with the veteran. It is my strong belief that a service dog will more than pay for itself over its life, and my bill is designed to determine the return on investment with a pilot program that provides service dogs to hundreds of veterans. My bill will help train a statistically significant number of dogs to measure the benefits to veterans with physical and emotional wounds. The program would be monitored and refined over a three-year period to optimize its effectiveness. Frankly, I believe it is enough simply to improve the lives of those of whom we asked so much. But this program isn't just the right thing to do. It's the smart thing to do. This is win, win, win, win. I've been a senator for only a few days. But I've learned that it's better to listen than to talk, that you don't have to be a lawyer to be impressed by a tremendous jurist like Judge Sotomayor, and that I enjoy working with my Republican colleagues as much as I do with my fellow Democrats. Most of all, I've learned that a senator has the incredible privilege of doing things that make a real difference to real people like Luis. That's a privilege I will continue to cherish. Franken is United States Senator from Minnesota. Contact him at info@franken.senate.gov or by phone at 202-224-5641.
Franken is the junior U.S. senator from Minnesota. Contact him at info@franken.senate.gov or by phone at 202-224-5641.
********************************************************************* After witnessing what our service dog Lewis has done for our daughter Adelle; being completely amazed and awed by his awareness and perception of, and the ability to treat her stress and anxiety issues, I am a firm believer in what these animals can do for someone who is really hurting inside. There is no drug made, no therapy out there that matches what he can do. He is unique and I think it's not only the patriotic thing, but the right thing to do. These animals can be the furry crutch for those who defended our country and have come home with it's after affects. So many injuries are not visually apparent and can be devastating, to suffer from it and to not be believed because you look "healthy". The things we witness can leave the greatest damage for the long term, usually unnoticed by the whole until it's way too late. Suicides among returning vets are at alarming numbers yet are rarely mentioned. Al knows though and is doing something about it.
As a side note, what really hurts is that people like Al Franken have become targets of the right wing flag wavers and labeled as unpatriotic or unAmerican. He's an evil liberal, Godless even if you stop and listen to the static. I sympathize greatly with Al. You may not agree with his politics, but he is sure one hell of an American. This isn't the first time he's donated his time for the troops. From visits to the war zone to raising awareness of veterans issues such as this, Al has given his time to his country.
This is nothing new from him. He's always supported the troops and America. You may not have noticed however because he doesn't do it with yellow ribbons and waving flags. This time he's using the help of furry friends, of which this family knows their incredible value.
I wish we'd stop tearing each other down, we may think differently but in the end we are all Americans. I have hope that we can change. With people Like Al in the Senate, that hope has a chance. *********************************************************************
Two fine Americans make up an amazing therapy team!
America needs true health care reform, followed closely by political reform. I wish the Republican party would just finish imploding upon itself so we can make it happen. It has become an ugly spectacle to behold and it's only getting worse. How far down will they go?
Note; The symbol of the GOP/Republican Party. Look closely at the stars, standing on point. That is a symbol of anarchy. I've observed their behavior very closely over the last 8 years and they are indeed a perfect example of that symbol.
BEWARE THE ANARCHIST!
The Republicans are indeed trying to kill health care reform. The worst part of it is that they have nothing to offer the American people as an alternative other than what we currently have, which is why there is the current effort to reform it in the first place! The idiots prefer that over open debate. Take on the merits of the plan and voice your objections and offer alternatives clearly. Do not attempt to spoon feed me any more of your bullshit, I am full. Recent polls show that American citizens want health care reform, NOW. Right now it's run by politicians and corporations that are rapidly becoming one in the same.
The best part of Single Payer health care is that it's an option. You don't have to enroll in it. You can keep your current coverage if you so choose. Critics say they don't want the government competing with private business. Well, I would tend to agree to a point. But we are not talking about the gov. going into business for itself and becoming the USA LLC or America Inc. Funny though, is how ignored the influence big business has over our government these days. Where's the outrage? I've been angry about that for quite a while now, but considered a socialist if I dared to speak out. How about Fascist, ever heard of that?
I don't necessarily want someone competing for my health. It sounds great and all, but current circumstances are the result of that way of thinking. I also have little trust in a company whose primary focus is the bottom line and not my health. To me, it is the height of immorality. I want the primary focus to be my well being. Too many times my insurance company got in between me and my choices for health care. I can't be the only one who feels this.
I could only imagine if Jesus had sent those he healed, a bill for his services.
Besides, should medical coverage only be based upon your employment? For one, the cost to private companies are horrendous. It was an anchor around GM's neck. Even right down to the small business owner who really can't afford a benefits package for employees.
Health care for profit is wrong and unmoral. In my eyes, not Christian behavior. Insurance companies pay mightily into campaigns to get votes to basically nullify yours and mine. I wonder who they could really help if they spent that money on their clients instead, leaving our democracy in place in the process? I remember who got elected on the drumbeat of morality and family values. Well folks, here's an opportunity to show your mettle. Alas, I've seen it too many times before. They couldn't lead, they refuse to follow so it's time they got the hell out of the way.
These folks led us into this disaster economy and opened ended wars. Why in the hell should we listen to them anymore?
So, call me socialist if you please. It's just another political boogeyman. I can spot many a socialist value that makes up our democracy.
Can you?
While pondering that, please contact your local/state and federal representatives and voice your support for health care reform.
If I ever make my life's fortunes, they're going to play my birthday and everyone is invited for free. I'm thinking December 21st, 2012.
I've always liked their music & message especially since the release of American Idiot. Experiencing them live has infected my blood, turning it green. Have no fear though, it's not harmful or anything. Not contagious either. I do highly recommend it as I personally enjoy the affliction and the temporary cure is to put on Green Day and crank it up. It's been wonderful for my mental well being. I also discovered someting else;
I am an American Idiot!
Certain music has that affect on me. When life makes me rattled and stressed, it takes me to a place away far away from the everyday grind of reality with some good ol rock n roll blasting in my head; clearing my mind. A kind of mental eraser with the power of a jackhammer. Green Day has taken that to another level for me after seeing their live show.
Described in three words AH-MAY-ZING!! Their energy could have powered all of Seattle for the rest of the 21st Century.
They are a powerful mix of sound combing voice, instrument & visual affect with a message. Their music not only soothes my soul but strengthens it. It has grown up from their earlier albums and it speaks to me in a way very few things do, providing an edge and voice in this complicated and stressful world. It's only music? No no, it's much more than that. This is where I find some peace of mind. A trapdoor of escape when feeling confined within my head, trying to find my way out when all exits appear blocked. It's as if I've been given another sense to deal with the pain.
I'd like to take a few minutes to review their show, from the Pickard Perspective;
As soon as I found out Green Day was playing Seattle, I got tickets the first day they went on sale. Adelle definitely wanted to go but Eve couldn't because she had pup's visiting. My brother Jeff came to mind, so I bought three tickets then called to tell him he was going. It was the best 25 bucks I have ever spent. These memories will last a lifetime. Sharing them with Adelle was the best part of our night rocking out.
The tour is in support of their new album/CD; 21st Century Breakdown. At first, I liked it okay and every time I listened I liked it more. This album is one of those that gets better to me with each time played. Very few I notice do that for me. Either I like it or I don't and it doesn't change. This is one of the few that is a journey of discovery with each song. At first I thought it was an ample follow up to American Idiot. Especially considering how tough it is to match that kind of output again. Much like the Eagles after Hotel California. There's pressure to improve upon your greatest work. It's not easy to do. Green Day has done it with 21st Century Breakdown. They've produced another fantastic album and I think it matches Idiot more than it betters it. It's like riding a wave;
They're still on the crest.
It's not only the music that turns me on to Green Day. It's the message and what they do with their fame that I've also noticed. I've been severely pissed off over the last 8 years of George Bush and quite obviously, so have they. Thier music expresses that frustration and I feel gives me voice. Not only in the political realm but they also advocate for the environment. To me, there are few other things that are so important as protecting God's creation. Off of their website I found that they are very involved with such radical groups as the NRDC (Natural Resource Defense Council) & Habitat For Humanity. They helped HFH build homes after hurricane Katrina.
I don't expect everyone to feel the same way as I do. You may not agree with me or find Green Day distasteful, I'd like to say sorry but I wont apologize. I find plenty of things in everyday life offensive. Most of it done placed between very clean, white sheets making it hard to distinguish the underlying message. Like 'em or not. You know where Green Day stands, no question. I stand with them on many of these issues.
How do you express the feelings in your heart when your American Dream has been pissed on and flushed into a nightmare? All I want is a small slice of pie, I don't need the whole thing, leaving plenty for the next guy. Our ruined economy wasn't done in by two men who wished to marry, but by upstanding married men (to women) who have stolen our future and risked the collapse of our very way of life. I wish we could vote to outlaw greed. Instead, I am a commie for even thinking of such things. That's a real fear to me right here at home.
Okay, now I'm drifting away from my original intent here. Back to the concert!
Finally, the day of the show arrived; July 3rd 2009. We were ready to go after Adelle did my feauxhawk hair and eye liner for me. My brother picked us up around 5:30 (to raised eyebrows when he caught our get ups!). We ate at the Center House in the Seattle center before making our way to the Key. We were pleasantly surprised to see the Green Day tour bus parked outside next to the big fountain. Of course we had to snap a few pics of it and us posing. After milling around a bit we made for the line that was getting longer and longer to get into Key Arena.
While waiting in line, Adelle decided that I needed "IDIOT" pasted across my forehead. She whipped out her red lipstick and went to work. We found we were in the will call line and had to make for the other, longer line to get in. What idiots!!
Although, my only concern was that it was spelled correctly.
Once inside and seats located, followed by a couple of trips out for water and facilities we waited for the show to start. On the big screen they were taking and showing texts from the audience. I sent a few but they didn't show. Adelle's did, but I didn't see it as I was fetching water. Everyone was buying beer. The lady behind the counter look shocked that I only got one bottle of water, which had to be emptied into a cup. Apparently there's a new version of water bombs?
A band called "The Bravery" opened the show; *YAWN* After they finished and before Green Day came on stage, they turned up the house lights and played some various music. A Michael Jackson tune came on, followed by someone staggering on stage in a pink bunny costume carrying a bottle. He led the crowd with cheers, on side then the other. He staggered out to the edge of the stage and attempted some MJ moves, grabbed his crotch and downed the bottle before crawling back to the main stage and humping the step as he climbed. Finally someone from security came out and escorted him off stage. What a riot! The crowd was laughing as the bunny slid down the railing instead of going down the steps off stage.
The Show;
We got our money's worth right from the get go. They blasted off with songs off their new album; Song of the Century & 21st Century Breakdown injecting the Key with their enormous energy;
They followed with "Know Your Enemy". Then came "East Jesus Nowhere" with Billie starting off with "We'll see how Godless a nation we have become". The music filled the arena, pounding in my chest. The light show moved right in tune with the melody creating an overall affecting awe, completing the performance. He found a kid in the audience and called the "little shit" up on stage to "freak out and dance" while Green Day rocked out. Poor little guy, he was so nervous up there. Billie had him wave his arms in the air (the crowd followed right along). Instead of waving his arms, he rocked his whole body as if rigid.
Billie put his hand on the kids head to hold it still while he waved his arms. By the end of the song he was waving his arms madly and jumping up and down. Later Billie invited fans up to sing, finally bringing up a 16 year old kid on stage to play with the band during "Jesus of Suburbia". After Billie confirmed that he could play it, he handed his guitar to him and told him to get ready. The song rocked on and so did the young man jamming away for about the next 10 minutes.
Besides their music and energy that comes with it. I really enjoyed how Green Day involved the crowd in their show, taking a big venue and thousands of fans and making it feel small and intimate while still capturing the spectacle of a live arena show. That's not easily done and they pulled it off nicely. I would go see Green Day again in a heartbeat and plan on it when they come back to Seattle. They not only carried the torch for rocking live shows, they burned it down! Peter Frampton would be proud. The changing back drops, pryo's and booms added punch to an already knockout show.
Speaking of Seattle. Billie inserted the city reference and the state of Washington into their show many times, as any good band on tour does. A nice personal touch was Billie starting the Wave, a definite Seattle trait! The crowd jumped right up. What made this special was that it was the kickoff show on their five month tour that will take them across North America and Europe before it's over. Billie proclaimed; "We are now Green Day from Seattle". That got a raucus reply from the audience. I think mostly because he made us feel that way. They became a part of the audience by including them into their show, like it's their priviledge as much as ours.
After an hour and a half of driving rock and roll, with occasional side trips to ballads and slower numbers, Green Day left the stage only to be called back by loud chants of "Green - Day!" for their encore, lasting another 30 minutes wrapping it up with the ballad "Good Riddance/The Time of your Life". Perfectly stated. We did have the time of our lives. I will always remember this show. Filed away in a place where I can go to escape the stress of everyday life.
BILLIE JOE, MIKE AND TRE,
Thank you for sharing your talents with the rest of us. I am forever grateful. Have a great tour!
We caught the 6th movie last night and I highly recommend it, especially if you are already into Harry Potter. Adelle went with friends and appeared to have a great time. It's so nice to see her having fun with other kids and fitting in. The movie was actually playing in two theaters so Adelle and friends went to one, Eve and I the other. How strange it was to be in a movie theater alone with her. It's been quite a while and forgot how much I really liked it.
The biggest thing was showing restraint at the snack bar. Usually a trip to the movies also includes my own concoction of soda, popcorn and nachos (I still carry past movie visits with me, around my waist). I've gotten Eve hooked on them too, for good or bad. In high school I worked in a movie theater and one of my co-workers would go on break with a bag of popcorn and nachos, dipping the corn chips in the cheese, then popcorn bag to snag a few kernals before stuffing the whole lot into his face.
I tried it and got hooked, feeling as if it were a form of crack or something! It's probably a good thing that I don't catch very many movies. Last night I just stuck to a soda and popcorn. Getting on in my middle age I find that this kind of a diet/meal will not only add to the waist and never leave, but the digestion of this ambrosia is a payback, without getting into any unglorious details....
Eve did mention that Milk Duds and popcorn go well together too...I didn't try that however. I would have been spitting teeth with all that caramel/popcorn stuck to 'em!
8^D
Ok, back to the movie;
For anyone who is familiar with the books will notice many differences between the print and the movie versions, HPVI is no exception. It's understandable because there's no way to get all the info from the book into a movie. JK Rowling is so detailed and thorough that it makes the movie feel to me as if it's almost fast forward.
Don't get me wrong though, I really enjoyed the action and plot. The kids are growing up and not only dealing with dark magic but also being teens. It's darker as the conclusion draws near. Ron and Hermione look to have gotten together, Harry and Ginny too. Their scene over Dumbledore's body was very moving. Contrasted where Harry and Dumbledore go to get the Horcrux out of the cave. Very powerful when Dumbledore is drinking the potion; Harry forcing him to do so when he was being tormented by it's affects. I knew what was coming but was still jolted by it. Many in the theater gasped or screamed when Harry tried to get water for Dumbledore when the inferi attacked them.
The only part I didn't really follow was the attack on the Weasely house; The Burrow. Knowing the book, that was completely different. It still doesn't diminish the movie for me. They've done a great job of moving the book from page to screen here even with all the differences.
I may go back to see it in the theaters once more, I don't know. I do know that when is released on Blu Ray, we will be getting it.
Question with boldness even the existence of a god; because if there be one he must approve of the homage of reason more than that of blindfolded fear.
Thomas Jefferson, letter to Peter Carr, August 10, 1787
Just to be clear; I'm not an atheist. I'm just not sure what comes next.
Oh, people have tried to tell me what that is. They are certain beyond a doubt and are puzzled that I don't think the same way. I've listened to many of the same things but have drawn a different conclusion. In so many words, I have been told that I am going to Hell.
My reply?
Matthew 7: 1-5
Words to that I try live by. Yet largely ignored in this "Christian" nation of ours.
I get the feeling America has become more about Man creating God, than God creating Man... When it crosses the line and people use it to get elected to govern over me, well color me not only skeptical, but downright angry considering this country guarantees your religious beliefs without putting one above any other. Until we can agree on one for all, please worship as you please come Sunday, & come Monday, save it for the next Sunday...or at least your place of worship.
Given recent events it has been proven that those who claim the religious high ground to get elected are nothing short of liars and wreckers of Democracies. Using the Lords name in vain, to attempt to speak for him, is galling to me.
I don't want to claim the moral high ground. I've found it's a long way down if you stumble off the edge. I have a tough enough time living up to my own expectations without climbing up on the religious pillar to point fingers. I wouldn't dare to speak for the Lord. Blashpeme certainly....but to knowingly mislead with a Bible in hand raises my ire because history offers so many horrendous examples when that happens. If ever was a reason to be cast into the firey lake and swim eternal laps, that would be it. My bet is that there are plenty of priests already freestyling there.
What I do know is that when I get closer to nature, I get closer to our Creator. A book cannot even come close to explaining what I see; standing alone in my thoughts on a forested mountain top. How can one not feel that something, someone is responsible for the incredible beauty that lies before me as the fresh air rejuvenates my lungs? There, you find me doing some sort of thankful worship. Am I about to give up all my reasoning in pursuit of that being? Not in the least. I have to admit, it's getting harder to enjoy that creation without seeing the hand of man all over it. When my day comes, I will return to the earth and become a part of it again. That I know.
Do you have anything to fear in regards to my beliefs? No, not really. I'm not going to verbally smite someone for not thinking as I do. I don't expect anyone to believe like me. Just be ready if you bring it to my doorstep.
Take it away TJ!;
They [the clergy] believe that any portion of power confided to me, will be exerted in opposition to their schemes. And they believe rightly; for I have sworn upon the altar of god, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man. But this is all they have to fear from me: and enough, too, in their opinion.
Thomas Jefferson to Dr. Benjamin Rush, Sept. 23, 1800
As long as I don't feel the pressure of another's belief upon me. Tom sums it up very well....
But it does me no injury for my neighbor to say there are twenty gods or no God. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg.
-Thomas Jefferson, Notes on Virginia, 1782
Don't fear me, there's no reason.
I usually try to be humble regarding my spiritual feelings. I prefer to keep that relationship strictly between God and me. But when push comes to shoving religious ideals upon me, well....get ready for a spirited debate while I pull off my shorts and cannon ball into the Lake of Fire.
Take me home, Tom;
Ridicule is the only weapon which can be used against unintelligible propositions. Ideas must be distinct before reason can act upon them; and no man ever had a distinct idea of the trinity. It is the mere Abracadabra of the mountebanks calling themselves the priests of Jesus."
Thomas Jefferson, letter to Francis Adrian Van der Kemp, 30 July, 1816
Here's another dispatch in the long continuing saga from the highly acclaimed series regarding my adventures riding the bus to work via King County Metro.
July, Monday the 13th, 2009.
Another Monday. Let me begin by stating the obvious; THEY SUCK!
Today is no exception. After a long stint of warm sunny weather, today brings gray clouds with spotty rain and a seriously shitty attitude compounded by a ride aboard route 311, one of many petri dishes of human behavior, if not infectious diseases. I am just recovering from another bout with a cold/flu of some sort, probably swine flu or something. Knowing the bus service, it could be a flesh eating MRSA virus, specifically feeding on the brains. Most riders appear to be immune, me on the other hand, have succumbed to the evil that lurks there.
This lovely morning brought a visit from an old acquaintance; "The Line Nazi". After being AWOL for quite some time, she was there again today first in line holding her umbrella to keep the make up from running (or her melting her into the sidewalk). What a sight. I thought maybe I was seeing things, but no doubt; it's HER. That would explain the lousy gray/wet weather. Wondering whether I should play some more bus line bingo with her as I saunter by and take my place in line. Owing to the fact that I'm not up to arguing over where I'm standing today I choose to remain silent. Notably however, is that there are no other buses coming/going when I catch the 6:15. When I rode the later bus, the one I think she usually takes when not on her broom, about 4 different buses came and went while waiting for the 311. Now I can at least justify waiting in the line of early morning zombies because I am not in anyone's way.
I join the line. She's chatting/clucking with the lady between us. I hastily fumbled with my mp3 player while holding my umbrella, struggling to untangle the headphones before she starts yapping. Still holding a tangle with one hand, I notice she steps forward towards the curb and kicks at a small round silver object on the ground. It slid a little on the wet cement and she exclaimed; "It's a nickel! I thought it would be idiot kids, ya know, sticking these to the ground so I would look stupid trying to pick it up!" Eagerly she picked it up and put it in her purse.
"Idiotic" kids?
An immediate, rather obvious thought strikes me;
"You don't need to kick a nickle to look stupid"
Then the less obvious;
"I wonder if she'd go for a quarter if I tossed it into the street?"
July, Monday the 13
This lovely morning brought a visit from an old 
