My buddy Guy emailed these to me. #1 is the best, of course!
50. Act naturally
49. Found missing
48. Resident alien
47. Advanced BASIC
46. Genuine imitation
45. Airline Food
44. Good grief
43. Same difference
42. Almost exactly
41. Government organization
40. Sanitary landfill
39. Alone together
38. Legally drunk
37. Silent scream
36. American history
35. Living dead
34. Small crowd
33. Business ethics
32. Soft rock
31. Butt Head
30. Military Intelligence
29. Software documentation
28. New York culture
27. New classic
26. Sweet sorrow
25. Childproof
24. "Now, then ..."
23. Synthetic natural gas
22. Christian Scientists
21. Passive aggression
20. Taped live
19. Clearly misunderstood
18. Peace force
17. Extinct Life
16. Temporary tax increase
15. Computer jock
14. Plastic glasses
13. Terribly pleased
12. Computer security
11. Political science
10. Tight slacks
9. Definite maybe
8. Pretty ugly
7. Twelve-ounce pound cake
6. Diet ice cream
5. Rap music
4. Working vacation
3. Exact estimate
2. Religious tolerance
And the #1,
top OXYMORON . . .
Microsoft Works
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
A Rainy Day
We were pretty housebound today. Connie was working and I was home with the kids. Funny how they can get bored a few days after Christmas. It's strange when you know you can't go outside, you want to do that more than usual.
We're looking forward to our friends, Guy and Nay, coming over on Friday. We don't get to see them very often. They live up near Ontario and even though it isn't that far away, it seems hard to schedule visits. So, we usually see them on holidays.
Anthony is doing an extreme make over on Zack's bedroom. At this time he and Zack have painted the room, gotten shelves prepared, bought some storage containers and cleaned up the room quite a bit. Looking forward to seeing how it all turns out.
We're looking forward to our friends, Guy and Nay, coming over on Friday. We don't get to see them very often. They live up near Ontario and even though it isn't that far away, it seems hard to schedule visits. So, we usually see them on holidays.
Anthony is doing an extreme make over on Zack's bedroom. At this time he and Zack have painted the room, gotten shelves prepared, bought some storage containers and cleaned up the room quite a bit. Looking forward to seeing how it all turns out.
Saturday, December 25, 2004
A Christmas Movie
Our family usually goes to see a movie on Christmas day after all the morning activies have calmed down. With Robin's kids here, we have a bunch to keep entertained. The trick, however, is to be able to find a movie that spans the ages of 5 (Elizabeth) to 13 (Zack). Not always an easy task.
Today we all went to see "Fat Albert" of Bill Cosby fame. I always enjoyed the cartoon as a child and I love most anything Bill Cosby does. We loved this movie. One, it was very clean. Two, it was very funny. They found a believeable plot for combining the cartoon characters with real people. There are some very good moral lessons in this movies such as kindness, friendliness, self worth to name a few. Connie and I enjoyed this as much as the kids did. It was refreshing to see a good film that was clean. If you want a nice evening out, try this one.
Today we all went to see "Fat Albert" of Bill Cosby fame. I always enjoyed the cartoon as a child and I love most anything Bill Cosby does. We loved this movie. One, it was very clean. Two, it was very funny. They found a believeable plot for combining the cartoon characters with real people. There are some very good moral lessons in this movies such as kindness, friendliness, self worth to name a few. Connie and I enjoyed this as much as the kids did. It was refreshing to see a good film that was clean. If you want a nice evening out, try this one.
Monday, December 20, 2004
Christmas Program
Finally, the Christmas program for school is finished. It really went well. The kids did great. They sang 7 songs and did a skit with Cindy Kesler as carolers. She taught them the true meaning of Christmas. I was very proud of them.
It was a lot of hard work and I don't know how many practices we went through, but they all learned their parts. We also had a great turn out. Friday night the church was packed. There were fewer on Sunday morning, which surprised me, but I guess friends had already seen it on Friday and didn't come back. I think I'll just do it on Sunday next year.
I had a lot of help in this program. Cindy Kesler and Stephanie Garibaldi worked very hard with kids. Connie and Colleen pitched in all the time helping us with the practices and on performance night. Sam and Doug helped with the sound and Marie sand beautifully on Sunday. Becky played the piano for us on both performances. It all came together pretty well. Thanks to all.
It was a lot of hard work and I don't know how many practices we went through, but they all learned their parts. We also had a great turn out. Friday night the church was packed. There were fewer on Sunday morning, which surprised me, but I guess friends had already seen it on Friday and didn't come back. I think I'll just do it on Sunday next year.
I had a lot of help in this program. Cindy Kesler and Stephanie Garibaldi worked very hard with kids. Connie and Colleen pitched in all the time helping us with the practices and on performance night. Sam and Doug helped with the sound and Marie sand beautifully on Sunday. Becky played the piano for us on both performances. It all came together pretty well. Thanks to all.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Christmas Program
If any of my friends who live in the area would be interested in attending our school's Christmas Program, it will be on Dec. 17 @ 7:00 p.m. and Dec. 19 @ 9:30 a.m. in our sanctuary. The address is 12722 Woods Ave., Norwalk, CA 90650. We'd love to see you. My children, Zack and Elizabeth, will be in the program. Zack will be a wiseman and a caroler. Elizabeth will be a townsperson, an angel and a caroler. Hope you can make it.
Bob
Bob
Saturday, December 04, 2004
You'll smile if you make the switch
Recent Windows-to-Mac switcher: you'll smile if you make the switch
Friday, October 08, 2004 - 02:40 PM EST
By James O'Connor
In a recent report by USA Today, Matt Krantz talks about why Apple is seeing many new consumers and on-lookers. Windows has been plagued by viruses since the 1990s and it's becoming mainstream knowledge that the Mac is the virus-free platform of choice for the general public, large corporations, or power users (graphics, video, etc.). In other words, the majority of the market is beginning to look for a new solution.
Last year, in December, I made my switch to the Apple Power Mac G5 from a custom built (by myself) Windows machine. At first, I wasn't sure if it was the right choice or even if it would benefit me in the long run. Plus, I was skeptical whether or not a Mac could improve my everyday life and/or if it could even be part of my everday life. One year later, I am extremely proud at my choice to switch and know others are, too. My Mac has become part of my life and it can suit my everyday needs, as well as greatly exceeding them.
At this point, many of you may be wondering what I'm talking about. You're probably saying: "How can he know what will actually benefit me?" or "I can't give up Microsoft Office because it's my job to use it (or school)." First of all, Microsoft has a Mac version of Microsoft Office, and the files created by it are completely compatible with Office for PC. Second of all, if you are truly in desperate need of a Windows application, you can purchase Microsoft Virtual PC, which allows you to run programs in a virtual Windows XP.
So you can have all of your Windows applications, now what? The answer to that is infinite. You now have the stability of a Unix-based OS, unsurpassed by any version, patch or upgrade that Microsoft currently has for their OS. You have power at your fingertips. Apple�s line of Power Mac G5s and new iMac G5s contain 64-bit processors, created by IBM. You also have the option of purchasing AppleCare Protection. Under this, you have the ability for Tech Support for 3 years. If a product breaks, which hasn't happened to me, you can call Apple Tech Support. If it can't be fixed over the phone, someone will be sent to your house to fix it for you. Also, when you purchase products, they are all under a warranty of at least 90 days which gives you the ability to call up Apple Tech Support and have them help you in installing it or troubleshooting it.
It's one year later. I still get a smile on my face when people walk into my office and see my Apple Power Mac G5 with an awe-stricken face. It never gets old, and the system never crashes. My question at this point is this: What's your reason for not switching? Your daily life will simplified ever so much, and you won't have to deal with those annoying little nuisances that Microsoft "fixes." Make the switch.
Friday, October 08, 2004 - 02:40 PM EST
By James O'Connor
In a recent report by USA Today, Matt Krantz talks about why Apple is seeing many new consumers and on-lookers. Windows has been plagued by viruses since the 1990s and it's becoming mainstream knowledge that the Mac is the virus-free platform of choice for the general public, large corporations, or power users (graphics, video, etc.). In other words, the majority of the market is beginning to look for a new solution.
Last year, in December, I made my switch to the Apple Power Mac G5 from a custom built (by myself) Windows machine. At first, I wasn't sure if it was the right choice or even if it would benefit me in the long run. Plus, I was skeptical whether or not a Mac could improve my everyday life and/or if it could even be part of my everday life. One year later, I am extremely proud at my choice to switch and know others are, too. My Mac has become part of my life and it can suit my everyday needs, as well as greatly exceeding them.
At this point, many of you may be wondering what I'm talking about. You're probably saying: "How can he know what will actually benefit me?" or "I can't give up Microsoft Office because it's my job to use it (or school)." First of all, Microsoft has a Mac version of Microsoft Office, and the files created by it are completely compatible with Office for PC. Second of all, if you are truly in desperate need of a Windows application, you can purchase Microsoft Virtual PC, which allows you to run programs in a virtual Windows XP.
So you can have all of your Windows applications, now what? The answer to that is infinite. You now have the stability of a Unix-based OS, unsurpassed by any version, patch or upgrade that Microsoft currently has for their OS. You have power at your fingertips. Apple�s line of Power Mac G5s and new iMac G5s contain 64-bit processors, created by IBM. You also have the option of purchasing AppleCare Protection. Under this, you have the ability for Tech Support for 3 years. If a product breaks, which hasn't happened to me, you can call Apple Tech Support. If it can't be fixed over the phone, someone will be sent to your house to fix it for you. Also, when you purchase products, they are all under a warranty of at least 90 days which gives you the ability to call up Apple Tech Support and have them help you in installing it or troubleshooting it.
It's one year later. I still get a smile on my face when people walk into my office and see my Apple Power Mac G5 with an awe-stricken face. It never gets old, and the system never crashes. My question at this point is this: What's your reason for not switching? Your daily life will simplified ever so much, and you won't have to deal with those annoying little nuisances that Microsoft "fixes." Make the switch.
Friday, December 03, 2004
BobBlog
Had to post the IBM selling computers story. Never thought I'd see the day that Macintosh outlasted IBM!!!!
MacCentral: Report: IBM's PC business up for sale
MacCentral: Report: IBM's PC business up for sale: "Report: IBM's PC business up for sale
By Paul Kallender, IDG News Service
IBM Corp. has put its PC business up for sale, according to a story published on Friday on the Web site of The New York Times.
IBM is discussing selling the business to Lenovo Group Ltd., China's largest maker of personal computers, and at least one other potential buyer, according to the article. The price of the sale and the status of the negotiations were not mentioned.
A spokeswoman for IBM in Japan declined comment on the story and a spokeswoman for Lenovo in Hong Kong had no immediate comment.
IBM's personal systems group, which include its PC business, has shown strong year-on-year sales growth for each of the first three quarters of this year, according to the company.
Revenues increased 17 percent compared to the three-month period a year ago to US$3.3 billion on strong sales of mobile PCs during the third quarter, the company said in October. Similarly, strong sales of mobile PCs contributed to 16 percent year-on-year growth for the second quarter and 18 percent year-on-year growth for the first quarter, the company said previously.
Market-research company IDC said in September that IBM was the world's number-three PC maker in the second quarter of this year with global shipments of 3.2 million PCs. This was about 16 percent higher than the second quarter of 2003. However, IBM saw a smaller increase in sales than market-leader Dell Inc. and number-two maker Hewlett-Packard Co.
In a Nov. 29 report, Gartner Inc. predicted that three of the world's top ten PC vendors would sell their businesses or pull out of the market by 2007 because of slower growth rates and reduced profit margins.
PC sales per unit may grow by an average 5.7 percent annually from 2006 through 2008, which is about half the 11.3 percent average growth likely between 2003 and 2005, according to the company's predictions. PC revenue growth is also likely to fall to average 2 percent annually from 2006 through 2008, which is less than half the 4.7 percent average expected between 2003 and 2005, Gartner said.
Of the top 10 global PC vendors, only Dell Inc. has consistently been profitable in the past several years, and IBM's PC division was seen as vulnerable to being spun off, the report said."
By Paul Kallender, IDG News Service
IBM Corp. has put its PC business up for sale, according to a story published on Friday on the Web site of The New York Times.
IBM is discussing selling the business to Lenovo Group Ltd., China's largest maker of personal computers, and at least one other potential buyer, according to the article. The price of the sale and the status of the negotiations were not mentioned.
A spokeswoman for IBM in Japan declined comment on the story and a spokeswoman for Lenovo in Hong Kong had no immediate comment.
IBM's personal systems group, which include its PC business, has shown strong year-on-year sales growth for each of the first three quarters of this year, according to the company.
Revenues increased 17 percent compared to the three-month period a year ago to US$3.3 billion on strong sales of mobile PCs during the third quarter, the company said in October. Similarly, strong sales of mobile PCs contributed to 16 percent year-on-year growth for the second quarter and 18 percent year-on-year growth for the first quarter, the company said previously.
Market-research company IDC said in September that IBM was the world's number-three PC maker in the second quarter of this year with global shipments of 3.2 million PCs. This was about 16 percent higher than the second quarter of 2003. However, IBM saw a smaller increase in sales than market-leader Dell Inc. and number-two maker Hewlett-Packard Co.
In a Nov. 29 report, Gartner Inc. predicted that three of the world's top ten PC vendors would sell their businesses or pull out of the market by 2007 because of slower growth rates and reduced profit margins.
PC sales per unit may grow by an average 5.7 percent annually from 2006 through 2008, which is about half the 11.3 percent average growth likely between 2003 and 2005, according to the company's predictions. PC revenue growth is also likely to fall to average 2 percent annually from 2006 through 2008, which is less than half the 4.7 percent average expected between 2003 and 2005, Gartner said.
Of the top 10 global PC vendors, only Dell Inc. has consistently been profitable in the past several years, and IBM's PC division was seen as vulnerable to being spun off, the report said."
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
Great News
Some of you know my dear friends of many years, Ron and Sue Beasley. You may or may not know that a couple of weeks ago their house was broken into while they were asleep. The burglar took Ron's laptop and very expensive camera equipment he uses in his business. Then as he left he stole their car.
Thankfully, their car was recovered in Norwalk and was not damaged too much. Basically, the thief tried to dismantle their alarm system and was not successful.
Ron called me today. It was pretty exciting. After being out of work from Direct TV for about 2 years, his former boss called him up and begged him to come back. The boss admitted that he had made a big mistake. The people who replaced Ron were not trustworthy or honest and the whole department had become a huge mess. Ron is just thanking the Lord for watching over him and his family and providing this opportunity to return to the job he enjoyed so much. PTL!
Thankfully, their car was recovered in Norwalk and was not damaged too much. Basically, the thief tried to dismantle their alarm system and was not successful.
Ron called me today. It was pretty exciting. After being out of work from Direct TV for about 2 years, his former boss called him up and begged him to come back. The boss admitted that he had made a big mistake. The people who replaced Ron were not trustworthy or honest and the whole department had become a huge mess. Ron is just thanking the Lord for watching over him and his family and providing this opportunity to return to the job he enjoyed so much. PTL!
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Turkey
We'll be headed to my sister Robin's home in Monterey for Thanksgiving. She's a good sister. She's making my favorite meal. Yum!
Billy Graham Crusade
Wow, what a night. We took about 10 people to see Billy Graham tonight. What we didn't think about was that this had been an all day event for children. By the time we got there at 5:15 the place was pretty much full. The parking lot certainly was! I had Paul Arenas with me in my car and he had brought his handicapped parking plaque. But, the parking lot attendants couldn't tell me where the handicap parking was. So we ended up parking in a huge golf course! We had to walk so far to get there. I had Paul on his crutches and two ladies in their 70's walking over hill and dale. Kept waiting for someone to call out, "FOUR!"
When we got to the front gate, the tunnels leading into the stadium were blocked off and we just stood there forever. Finally, Connie asked me to go get some food as we didn't eat before we left at 3:30. So, when I was buying my $4.00 hot dogs and $4.00 Cokes, they let the line go and my group went in without me! I get back to line and they've closed off the whole entrance and tell me I have to go elsewhere. Well, I got my best "I'm the Pastor" look and said I had to go be with "MY PEOPLE!" I guess I put the fear of God in them or they thought I was pathetic. Either way I got in and we actually had pretty great seats. There were a few bands and then Billy spoke. They didn't even take up an offering! We were sad that we didn't get to hear George Beverly Shea sing. I love his music. We did get to see Cliff Barrows for a couple of minutes.
Billy Graham came in using a walker. It was sad to see him that way. He spoke rather briefly and his voice wasn't as strong as it once was, but he did well and huge crowds came down for Salvation. All in all we had a blessed night and we got home around 11:30. (It ended just after 8:00)
When we got to the front gate, the tunnels leading into the stadium were blocked off and we just stood there forever. Finally, Connie asked me to go get some food as we didn't eat before we left at 3:30. So, when I was buying my $4.00 hot dogs and $4.00 Cokes, they let the line go and my group went in without me! I get back to line and they've closed off the whole entrance and tell me I have to go elsewhere. Well, I got my best "I'm the Pastor" look and said I had to go be with "MY PEOPLE!" I guess I put the fear of God in them or they thought I was pathetic. Either way I got in and we actually had pretty great seats. There were a few bands and then Billy spoke. They didn't even take up an offering! We were sad that we didn't get to hear George Beverly Shea sing. I love his music. We did get to see Cliff Barrows for a couple of minutes.
Billy Graham came in using a walker. It was sad to see him that way. He spoke rather briefly and his voice wasn't as strong as it once was, but he did well and huge crowds came down for Salvation. All in all we had a blessed night and we got home around 11:30. (It ended just after 8:00)
Friday, November 19, 2004
Doors and Windows
Connie and I have been trying to get a new patio door and two new front windows installed in our home since April. First we started with Sears. They never showed up. Then we tried Home Depot. It's been months. I can't believe how hard it is to get work done. I look at the unemployment numbers and I ask "Why?" How can there be so many people unemployed when it is so hard to get anyone to do work for you? Seems demand is much greater than supply in the home improvement area.
Billy Graham Crusade
Connie and I and maybe Zack will be taking several people from church to the Billy Graham Crusade on Saturday. I was able to see him in the 1980's when he was in L.A. My dad and Becky saw him in the 1960's and one lady from our church, Dorothy Knapp, saw him in 1949 in L.A.!
It is hard to believe he is 86 and still ministering in this way. It should be a great night. We'll try to take some pictures and post them here.
It is hard to believe he is 86 and still ministering in this way. It should be a great night. We'll try to take some pictures and post them here.
Friday, November 12, 2004
Zachary at pottery class on the wheel
Zack has done very well in the pottery class. He's made quite a few things including mugs, bowls, vases and some Christmas gifts.
Elizabeth at Pottery Class
I've been taking a pottery class with both Zack and Elizabeth each week. We've been doing it for about 3 months now. Lots of fun. This is Elizabeth with her teacher, Gary Hamner.
Thanksgiving
We've been waiting forever to find out if Connie was going to get off work for Thanksgiving. She is so we'll be packing up the family and going to see Robin for Thanksgiving. Taking mom and dad. Becky & Tony can't make it. It's been a while since we've been up there. Usually Robin comes down here, so it will be fun to stay there. Robin's friend Mary said she'd put us up at her house, so that will be nice for us.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
DRUDGE REPORT 2004®
DRUDGE REPORT 2004®: "Before voting even began in downtown Philladelphia -- poll watchers found over 1000 votes already planted on machines... One incident occurred at 2601 N. 11th St., Philadelphia, Pa: Ward 37, division 8... pollwatchers uncovered 4 machines with planted votes; one with over 200 and one with nearly 500... A second location, 1901 W. Girard Ave., Berean Institute, Philadelphia, Pa, had 300 votes already on 2 machines at start of day... Developing...
"
Looks like this could get nasty! -Bob
"
Looks like this could get nasty! -Bob
Monday, November 01, 2004
I'm a Street Walker
Well, the family hit the streets for the second time in a week. Connie took Elizabeth and I took Zack to walk the streets of La Mirada, handing out voting literature and trying to get people out to vote for George W. Bush. I've done this sort of thing off and on since 1972, when I was a poll watcher for Nixon.
We walked quite a few streets. People were pretty cool. I think everyone we talked to had already voted or were sure they were going to vote. I believe it will be a huge turnout, but biggest in many years. It's too bad things are so controversial, but on the other hand, if it gets people to vote, that's a good thing.
I'll be up very late Tuesday night. I always do on election night. I can't go to sleep without knowing who won. Hope that happens tomorrow. I don't want this going to the courts again.
Bush 2004!
We walked quite a few streets. People were pretty cool. I think everyone we talked to had already voted or were sure they were going to vote. I believe it will be a huge turnout, but biggest in many years. It's too bad things are so controversial, but on the other hand, if it gets people to vote, that's a good thing.
I'll be up very late Tuesday night. I always do on election night. I can't go to sleep without knowing who won. Hope that happens tomorrow. I don't want this going to the courts again.
Bush 2004!
Friday, October 29, 2004
Dad's Progress
Lots of people asking about Dad. He's much better. He's been eating lamb stew that Mom made him. For him to eat veggies and meat is rare. But he is doing better. For some reason lamb is the meat he will eat. Luckily, we have a Greek store near by the carries it.
Keep praying for him, please. He still needs more strength. We're very happy he's starting to eat better, however. That is a very big step. His taste is returning for the first time in 3 years.
Bob
Keep praying for him, please. He still needs more strength. We're very happy he's starting to eat better, however. That is a very big step. His taste is returning for the first time in 3 years.
Bob
To the Wire
Connie and I took the kids out for a walk for Bush today. Connie took Elizabeth and I took Zack and we walked streets in our neighborhood passing out information for electing President Bush and various California initiatives. The kids had fun. I must have the most political little ones around. Guess they get that from me.
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Dad Update
Went to see Dad today at St. Jude's. He is doing well. Not too much draining from his heart cavity now. They'd probably send him home, but the doctors can't seem to decide who his primary doctor is, so he stays. It's okay, I think the rest and IV stuff is good for him, but he wants to come home.
We still don't know what brought the fluid into his heart cavity. That's a concern. So, we still covet your prayers. They make all the difference!
God bless,
Bob
We still don't know what brought the fluid into his heart cavity. That's a concern. So, we still covet your prayers. They make all the difference!
God bless,
Bob
Sent to me by a friend, Gary Waltz
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Phil. 4:19
Subject: Step Up and Be Counted
Two things about this blew me away,,, besides the message...
#1,, it was written by a University Professor..... and
#2 One from of all places... Ellensburg, Washington.
Well worth reading... and passing on to everyone on your e-mail list!
This was written in the Daily Record (Ellensburg's paper) on Wed. Oct.
6, 2004. It was written by Mathew (only one t) Manweller who is a Central Washington University political science professor.
The title of the article was "Election determines fate of nation."
"In that this will be my last column before the presidential election
there will be no sarcasm, no attempts at witty repartee. The topic is
too serious, and the stakes are too high.
This November we will vote in the only election during our lifetime
that will truly matter. Because America is at a once-in-a-generation
crossroads, more than an election hangs in the balance.
Down one path lies retreat, abdication and a reign of ambivalence.
Down the other lies a nation that is aware of its past and accepts the
daunting obligation its future demands. If we choose poorly, the
consequences will echo through the next 50 years of history.
If we, in a spasm of frustration, turn out the current occupant of
the White House, the message to the world and ourselves will be
twofold. First, we will reject the notion that America can do big
things. Once a nation that tamed a frontier, stood down the Nazis and
stood upon the moon, we will announce to the world that bringing
democracy to the Middle East is too big of a task for us. But more
significantly, we will signal to future presidents that as voters, we
are unwilling to tackle difficult challenges, preferring caution to
boldness, embracing the mediocrity that has characterized other
civilizations.
The defeat of President Bush will send a chilling message to future
presidents who may need to make difficult, yet unpopular decisions.
America has always been a nation that rises to the demands of history
regardless of the costs or appeal. If we turn away from that legacy, we
turn away from who we are.
Second, we inform every terrorist organization on the globe that the
lesson of Somalia was well learned. In Somalia we showed terrorists
that you don't need to defeat America on the battlefield when you can
defeat them in the newsroom. They learned that a wounded America can
become a defeated America. Twenty-four-hour news stations and daily
tracing polls will do the heavy lifting, turning a cut into a fatal
blow. Except that Iraq is Somalia times 10. The election of John Kerry
will serve notice to every terrorist in every cave that the soft
underbelly of American power is the timidity of American voters.
Terrorists will know that a steady stream of grizzly photos for CNN is
all you need to break the will of the American people. Our own
self-doubt will take it from there. Bin Laden will recognize that he
can topple any American administration without setting foot on the
homeland.
It is said that America's W.W.II generation is its 'greatest
generation.'
But my greatest fear is that it will become known as America's 'last
generation.' Born in the bleakness of the Great Depression and
hardened in the fire of WW II, they may be the last American generation
that understands the meaning of duty, honor and sacrifice. It is
difficult to admit, but I know these terms are spoken with only hollow
detachment by many (but not all) in my generation. Too many citizens
today mistake 'living in America' as 'being an American.' But America
has always been more of an idea than a place. When you sign on, you do
more than buy real estate. You accept a set of values and
responsibilities.
This November, my generation, which has been absent too long, must
grasp the obligation that comes with being an American, or fade into the
oblivion they may deserve. I believe that 100 years from now historians
will look back at the election of 2004 and see it as the decisive
election of our century. Depending on the outcome, they will describe
it as the moment America joined the ranks of ordinary nations; or they
will describe it as the moment the prodigal sons and daughters of the
greatest generation accepted their burden as caretakers of the City on
the Hill."
Mathew Manweller
Monday, October 18, 2004
My dad
Had quite a scare today. My dad had a cat scan a few days and it showed he had an enlarged heart. Today, Connie and Mom took him to a specialist who had him go to ER because he was very worried that dad had a lot of fluid around his heart. Anyway, they decided dad had to have emergency heart surgery. They opened him up and took out a quart of fluid, put in a drain and took him to ICU. Dad looked great following the surgery. He didn't seem to have any pain. The weirdest thing was that dad ate a big chicken dinner. He hasn't done that in months. He lives on Boost and Ensure drinks. Sure hoping he will eat like that when he comes home. They've also found 27 ulcers in his stomach. That's why he hasn't been able to keep any food down for so long. We'd appreciate your prayers for him.
Thanks,
Bob
Thanks,
Bob
Saturday, October 09, 2004
Debate #2
I thought President Bush did much better in tonight's debate. He was much more at ease in the Townhall forum. I'd say he won this one. I believe Cheney won the VP debate. That make it
Kerry - 1
Bush - 2
Me - happy
Kerry - 1
Bush - 2
Me - happy
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
Dad
Had a scare today. My dad was on his daily walk, alone, and took a fall. He had stopped to sit on a low brick fence. When he tried to stand up, he took a fall and landed on his face. He's not sure if he was knocked out or not, but he got up and walked home. He looks like someone mugged him. He has a black eye, swollen face and bloody scratches on his cheek and chin. We've not had a lot of success in getting him to slow down, so I guess this was inevitible. Keep him in your prayers.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
VP Debates
We're following the debates carefully at our house. The children are becoming very politically aware. Zack has a very good understanding of the candidates and parties. I busted up the other day in the school cafeteria. I could hear Elizabeth, age 5, shouting to the other kids, "John Kerry keeps lying about President Bush! I don't know why. It makes me mad that he lies. He's trying to get President Bush fired! President Bush is a good man."
Gotta love that girl! :-)
Gotta love that girl! :-)
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Extra Credit Assignment
I have given the students in grades 3-12 an extra credit assignment for history. They are to watch the debates tonight between President Bush and John Kerry. I have given them instructions on what they have to do, comparing and contrasting the views of the two men. If they successfully complete the assignment, they will receive up to 10% extra credit on one of their history tests.
It is due on Monday.
email me if you have questions.
Pastor Bob
It is due on Monday.
email me if you have questions.
Pastor Bob
Thursday, September 23, 2004
My Day
Busy day at school today. Pulled my back out a bit this morning and could hardly walk by the time I got home. Weird part is that my back didn't hurt nearly as much as my right leg again.
School is going very well this year. Much more positive atmosphere, lots more fun. Kids are working harder and are all caught up with their work.
Still having trouble trying to burn DVDs for the school. Very frustrating because I finished the whole project but it freezes everytime I try to burn a DVD. Can't find an answer to my problem. I'm suspecting it might be the processor upgrade I put in a while back. Might be causing a glitch. But, I can't undo that.
School is going very well this year. Much more positive atmosphere, lots more fun. Kids are working harder and are all caught up with their work.
Still having trouble trying to burn DVDs for the school. Very frustrating because I finished the whole project but it freezes everytime I try to burn a DVD. Can't find an answer to my problem. I'm suspecting it might be the processor upgrade I put in a while back. Might be causing a glitch. But, I can't undo that.
Sunday, September 05, 2004
Swim Party
Our church BBQ and Swim Party went well. We must have had around 25 people. Lots of food, lots of fun.
Zack
Yup, He's growing! I have a teenager! Pray for me. He's 13. Starting 8th grade this year. Now, pray for him. I'll be his teacher!
bob
Elizabeth's Dance Teacher
Elizabeth took ballet and tap dance classes for the second year. She has really enjoyed them. They are offered by the city of La Mirada where we live. She's in the black tutu in the middle. Her teacher is so very patient with the children. She does a great job.
Farmer Elizabeth
Here's my girl from another angle, doing the same thing. Hope she keeps up this interest. We are eating very healthy food these days. (Ask me for my zucchini recipe. It is the best!)
Farmer Elizabeth
Elizabeth has taken a lot of interest in our new vegetable garden. She waters it everyday, either with her big green water can or her garden hose. She also likes to pull weeds. So far her bounty has been green bell peppers and lots of zucchini.
Swim Party
We had a great turn out to our BBQ and Swim Party at the house. Filled up the house and the patio and pool. Couldn't have handled too many more people, I don't think. Had more than enough food.
I'll post some pictures shortly. No, I think I'll post them at the same height I am now.
Everybody commented on the garden. Got lots of zucchini growing and plenty of green tomatoes. Wish some would turn red.
Don't ask about Doug's deposit in our pool! :=)
Bob
I'll post some pictures shortly. No, I think I'll post them at the same height I am now.
Everybody commented on the garden. Got lots of zucchini growing and plenty of green tomatoes. Wish some would turn red.
Don't ask about Doug's deposit in our pool! :=)
Bob
Saturday, September 04, 2004
Work Day!
We're having the church over tomorrow for a BBQ and Swim Party. Lots of work to do cleaning up everything. We've redone so much of the backyard this year. We pulled out 3 trees and a lot of shrubs. It was too hard to clean the pool with all those leaves everyday. In their place we planted a vegetable garden, mostly tomatoes and zucchini squash. I can't believe how fast zucchini grows. You can almost see it growing.
The kids have enjoyed it. Elizabeth likes to water it and help Connie pick the veggies. Zack planted most of it himself this year and helped me put up a chicken wire fence to keep our Golden Retriever, Aslan, out of there! He gets in pretty frequently anyway.
The kids have enjoyed it. Elizabeth likes to water it and help Connie pick the veggies. Zack planted most of it himself this year and helped me put up a chicken wire fence to keep our Golden Retriever, Aslan, out of there! He gets in pretty frequently anyway.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Seeing Old Friends
What a wonderful time I had visiting with two of my dearest friends from my days of teaching at the Norwalk/La Mirada Adult School. Rae Lynn and Sharon were wonderful people to work with and were always so supportive of me in everything I did.
We met at a Japanese Restaurant. (A first for me, I think) and had a nice lunch together. We talked over old times. I found out some dear friends had past away. It was good to catch up on where everyone was these days.
One thing I am always amazed about is that you can be away from friends for years and then just pick up where you were so long ago.
AND the miracle of it all was I went the entire day without saying one negative thing to Rae Lynn about John Kerry! Yes, she is my token Democrat friend. We should all have at least one. They are so much fun. (Luv you Rae!) But I behaved myself, which most of you know is very difficult for me to do most of the times.
Hope we stay in better contact.
Bob
We met at a Japanese Restaurant. (A first for me, I think) and had a nice lunch together. We talked over old times. I found out some dear friends had past away. It was good to catch up on where everyone was these days.
One thing I am always amazed about is that you can be away from friends for years and then just pick up where you were so long ago.
AND the miracle of it all was I went the entire day without saying one negative thing to Rae Lynn about John Kerry! Yes, she is my token Democrat friend. We should all have at least one. They are so much fun. (Luv you Rae!) But I behaved myself, which most of you know is very difficult for me to do most of the times.
Hope we stay in better contact.
Bob
Friday, August 27, 2004
Airport
After weeks for trying, I actually got a decent tech on the Apple Hot line. After about 30 minutes we got my Apple Airport Extreme and my Apple Express working. I now have a wireless connection throughout my house and I can do a lot of my school work in front of the tv with the family. I can now fall asleep more comfortably with my computer and lounge chair.
Sunday, August 22, 2004
2 Services
Today was a new experience for me. I was invited by the Indian church that meets on our property to come and speak to them this morning. So, after our service, I walked across the lawn to share with them. It was a great exerience. They are a very friendly group of people. I enjoyed preaching to them because they are more resonsive and that makes preaching easier for me.
I thought it would be hard to do it twice in a row, but it wasn't. It was actually easier the second time around.
I thought it would be hard to do it twice in a row, but it wasn't. It was actually easier the second time around.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
My week
We've had a busy week. Worked some at school. It's coming way too fast!
We had a visit from Rob and Julie last week, Connie's brother and his wife, Julie. We had BBQed ribs and corn. I painted the downstairs bathroom. It was in dire need of some spruciing up, but now the rest of the house looks dirty. I guess that is what happens when you do one room.
We are getting new front windows and new French Doors to replace the patio door out to the pool.
THEN, just to make things more fun, I bought a new aquarium for the living room. I've been wanting to do this for a long time. But this time the issue was sort of pushed. I have to gold severums that have grown to large in my other tank and have been eating the smaller fish, sniff sniff. So, I've moved them into the living room with some faster fish they can't catch. I put in some roots and large hunks of petrified wood I've had for years. Looks great. I'll try to post a picture. It's hard to take a good picture of an aquarium because of the flash, but I'll try.
We had a visit from Rob and Julie last week, Connie's brother and his wife, Julie. We had BBQed ribs and corn. I painted the downstairs bathroom. It was in dire need of some spruciing up, but now the rest of the house looks dirty. I guess that is what happens when you do one room.
We are getting new front windows and new French Doors to replace the patio door out to the pool.
THEN, just to make things more fun, I bought a new aquarium for the living room. I've been wanting to do this for a long time. But this time the issue was sort of pushed. I have to gold severums that have grown to large in my other tank and have been eating the smaller fish, sniff sniff. So, I've moved them into the living room with some faster fish they can't catch. I put in some roots and large hunks of petrified wood I've had for years. Looks great. I'll try to post a picture. It's hard to take a good picture of an aquarium because of the flash, but I'll try.
Saturday, August 07, 2004
Busy Saturday
What a busy day it was today. I continued to paint my downstairs bathroom. It was in desperate need of a do over. We picked a light blue with a darker gray/blue trim. I've done all the walls, some of the accent work. Still have to paint the cabinets tomorrow and all the baseboards.
After ..... tore up the baseboards, I decided to paint them. Trying to stain them all was just too much work. I'm using the spong brushes instead of a regular brush. I like them much more. Not as many streaks and no more hair in the paint. I was getting tired of that really fast.
Then on top of that, I had to clean the pool. Connie's brother is coming down from Oregon on Monday and Connie invited them to swim. Sort of pushed the point, if you know what I mean.
Then our friend Joey came over and I paid him to install a wrought iron gate to keep my dog in! He's gotten out so many times and just destroyed the other gate....along with Zack, who can destroy just about anything. At least Zack hasn't started eating wood yet! :-)
After ..... tore up the baseboards, I decided to paint them. Trying to stain them all was just too much work. I'm using the spong brushes instead of a regular brush. I like them much more. Not as many streaks and no more hair in the paint. I was getting tired of that really fast.
Then on top of that, I had to clean the pool. Connie's brother is coming down from Oregon on Monday and Connie invited them to swim. Sort of pushed the point, if you know what I mean.
Then our friend Joey came over and I paid him to install a wrought iron gate to keep my dog in! He's gotten out so many times and just destroyed the other gate....along with Zack, who can destroy just about anything. At least Zack hasn't started eating wood yet! :-)
Sunday, August 01, 2004
USATODAY.com - Poll: No boost for Kerry after convention
USATODAY.com - Poll: No boost for Kerry after convention: "Poll: No boost for Kerry after convention
By Susan Page, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — The Democratic National Convention boosted voters' perceptions of John Kerry's leadership on critical issues, a USA TODAY/CNN/Gallup Poll finds. But it failed to give him the expected bump in the head-to-head race against President Bush.
In the survey, taken Friday and Saturday, the Democratic ticket of Kerry and John Edwards trailed the Republican ticket of Bush and Dick Cheney 50% to 46% among likely voters, with independent candidate Ralph Nader at 2%.
Before the convention, the two were essentially tied, with Kerry at 47%, Bush at 46%.
The change in support was within the poll's margin of error of /- 4 percentage points in the sample of 763 likely voters. But it was nonetheless a stunning result, the first time in the Gallup Poll since the 1972 Democratic convention that a candidate seemed to lose ground at his convention.
USA TODAY extended its survey Sunday night and tonight to get a fuller picture of what's happening with the electorate.
A Newsweek survey taken Thursday and Friday showed the Democrats with a lead of 49% to 42%, a four-point bounce compared with a poll taken three weeks earlier — the smallest in the history of the Newsweek poll.
Analysts say the lack of a boost for Kerry may reflect the intensely polarized contest. Nearly nine of 10 voters say in the survey that they are confident they won't change their mind between now and the Nov. 2 election. That leaves little room for a candidate to gain support even when major events occur.
"
By Susan Page, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — The Democratic National Convention boosted voters' perceptions of John Kerry's leadership on critical issues, a USA TODAY/CNN/Gallup Poll finds. But it failed to give him the expected bump in the head-to-head race against President Bush.
In the survey, taken Friday and Saturday, the Democratic ticket of Kerry and John Edwards trailed the Republican ticket of Bush and Dick Cheney 50% to 46% among likely voters, with independent candidate Ralph Nader at 2%.
Before the convention, the two were essentially tied, with Kerry at 47%, Bush at 46%.
The change in support was within the poll's margin of error of /- 4 percentage points in the sample of 763 likely voters. But it was nonetheless a stunning result, the first time in the Gallup Poll since the 1972 Democratic convention that a candidate seemed to lose ground at his convention.
USA TODAY extended its survey Sunday night and tonight to get a fuller picture of what's happening with the electorate.
A Newsweek survey taken Thursday and Friday showed the Democrats with a lead of 49% to 42%, a four-point bounce compared with a poll taken three weeks earlier — the smallest in the history of the Newsweek poll.
Analysts say the lack of a boost for Kerry may reflect the intensely polarized contest. Nearly nine of 10 voters say in the survey that they are confident they won't change their mind between now and the Nov. 2 election. That leaves little room for a candidate to gain support even when major events occur.
"
Friday, July 30, 2004
Ron Reagan Jr.
Nobody can put things like Peggy Noonan can:
Ron Reagan is too coached in media. He has the smooth round tones of a game show host. He patronized his audience. "Let me paint as simple a picture as I can," he said of stem cell research. This is how liberals say, "I'll talk slowly, stupid." When he began with "I am not here to make a political speech," he seemed like a salesman on the lot: "This is not a used car, it is a pre-owned car." By the end he seemed to me like Ron Popeil of the late night pocket-fisherman infomercials: And by the way, no fetal tissue is used in this process! He seemed a nicer person years ago when he was dancing in his underpants on Saturday Night Live. He is that unusual person who seems less authentic when not in a tutu.
Ron Reagan is too coached in media. He has the smooth round tones of a game show host. He patronized his audience. "Let me paint as simple a picture as I can," he said of stem cell research. This is how liberals say, "I'll talk slowly, stupid." When he began with "I am not here to make a political speech," he seemed like a salesman on the lot: "This is not a used car, it is a pre-owned car." By the end he seemed to me like Ron Popeil of the late night pocket-fisherman infomercials: And by the way, no fetal tissue is used in this process! He seemed a nicer person years ago when he was dancing in his underpants on Saturday Night Live. He is that unusual person who seems less authentic when not in a tutu.
My morning
My morning started off in an interesting way. I had to go get a blood test this morning so I told Zack and Elizabeth that I would be taking them out to breakfast after my blood was drawn. So, Elizabeth was excited. At 6:30 a.m. she woke me up gentley and said, "Daddy, can I brush my teeth now? I don't want to wake you up, so I thought I should ask you first."
Her toothpaste plays a 70 second song to tell her how long to brush. (I'm so deaf I would never have heard the music!)
I love kids.
Bob
Her toothpaste plays a 70 second song to tell her how long to brush. (I'm so deaf I would never have heard the music!)
I love kids.
Bob
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Vacation Pictures
Pictures of our vacation can be found in two places:
http://homepage.mac.com/bobrock/PhotoAlbum34.html
and
http://homepage.mac.com/bobrock/PhotoAlbum33.html
http://homepage.mac.com/bobrock/PhotoAlbum34.html
and
http://homepage.mac.com/bobrock/PhotoAlbum33.html
Monday, July 26, 2004
Grandma and Elizabeth
Mom and Elizabeth took a bit of a rest while Connie, Robin and the kids went horse back riding.
Friday, July 09, 2004
My Legs
Some of you know that I've had some incredible pain in my legs lately. Makes it very hard for me to walk or stand. I went to therapy today and they "stretched" me out. Seems more of the problem now is in my "tense" leg muscles, more than my back. That's not hard to believe since I've been pretty immobile since I threw my back out.
Anyway, the therapy helped a lot! I feel the best I have in 3 weeks. Then my regular Dr. called and gave me results from my x-ray of last week. His nurse said I have kidney stones again and arthritis in my back. Rather vague information to say the least. So, I don't know what that really means.
Anyway, the therapy helped a lot! I feel the best I have in 3 weeks. Then my regular Dr. called and gave me results from my x-ray of last week. His nurse said I have kidney stones again and arthritis in my back. Rather vague information to say the least. So, I don't know what that really means.
The Inauguration
Well, today I had my yearly duty of opening the Indian Church's convention. It is very interesting. They had the church packed out. My job is to inaugurate the session. I keep looking for President Bush, but I don't see him. The use of that word sort of tickles me, but at least I get to feel very important.
So, I went and listened to them sing their songs in whatever Indian language they are using. Then they switch to English and I feel much more comfortable. They do that throughout their service. Indian/English/Indian/English. Seems like almost everyone there must speak English because they all "Amened" me when I spoke.
They are a great bunch of people and they have a wonderful pastor. We get along very well. I wish them the best as they build their new church on our site. It is exciting and I can't wait for the groundbreaking. It will be a wonderful day.
Bob
So, I went and listened to them sing their songs in whatever Indian language they are using. Then they switch to English and I feel much more comfortable. They do that throughout their service. Indian/English/Indian/English. Seems like almost everyone there must speak English because they all "Amened" me when I spoke.
They are a great bunch of people and they have a wonderful pastor. We get along very well. I wish them the best as they build their new church on our site. It is exciting and I can't wait for the groundbreaking. It will be a wonderful day.
Bob
Friday, July 02, 2004
School News
Started up 4 new students today. It is looking like a very good year coming up for our school. We already have met our minimum amount of students we want in our school. Now we have more coming, meaning we'll have to buy even more computers to be able to take them in! But, that is a good problem, not a bad one.
Fire marshal told us we had to get electrical work done. Got one estimate today. Have to get another now. But, it could prevent a fire, so that is a good thing I guess. Too bad it costs so much to take care of, though.
Fire marshal told us we had to get electrical work done. Got one estimate today. Have to get another now. But, it could prevent a fire, so that is a good thing I guess. Too bad it costs so much to take care of, though.
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Back
Went to the Doctor again today. Have sharp pains going down my legs. Doc said it was probably sciatic nerve. Gave me Vicodin, so I'll be joining Rush Limbaugh soon! Gotta get this fixed. Have vacation coming up soon and want to be able to play! He says I'll be getting physical therapy. Had that before. It feels so good.
Good news! We have our enrollment almost filled for the school. Just have some room for Kindergarten and first grade. That's the first time we've ever filled up by the beginning of the summer and we've lost 10 kids to graduation and moving, so I'm pleased. Should be a good group of children too.
Elizabeth is taking dance classes again at the La Mirada Rec Center. In August Zack and I are going to take a potter class together there. I've always wanted to try that. SHould be a blast and nice to have something we can do together like that.
Who wants a pot?
Good news! We have our enrollment almost filled for the school. Just have some room for Kindergarten and first grade. That's the first time we've ever filled up by the beginning of the summer and we've lost 10 kids to graduation and moving, so I'm pleased. Should be a good group of children too.
Elizabeth is taking dance classes again at the La Mirada Rec Center. In August Zack and I are going to take a potter class together there. I've always wanted to try that. SHould be a blast and nice to have something we can do together like that.
Who wants a pot?
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Where 3 Are Gathered
For those of you who are trying to lose weight using the South Beach Diet, I've started a new Message Board called "Where 3 Are Gathered" to continue one that is on the South Beach Diet Web page that requires a fee to be paid. Understandably, some people would not want to have to pay forever, once they have the diet, so here will be a free version for the same and for new friends to use. It's a Christian oriented group where one can receive encouragement about the diet program as well as swap recipes and ideas they've tried.
Get in on the beginging and have fun with us!
Bob
http://p079.ezboard.com/bwhere3aregathered
You need to use the global user setting to get online and I have to approve you, which can take a few hours, unfortunately. Email me if you've registered so I can get you approved as fast as possible. Just keeps out spammers.
Get in on the beginging and have fun with us!
Bob
http://p079.ezboard.com/bwhere3aregathered
You need to use the global user setting to get online and I have to approve you, which can take a few hours, unfortunately. Email me if you've registered so I can get you approved as fast as possible. Just keeps out spammers.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Oh, my back
Been out of commission since graduation with a bad back. I'm sure I've got a ruptured disc. I've had them before. Slow to heal. So far just using medicine left over from the last bad back. Doctors never do much else but subscribe the same.
Saturday, June 12, 2004
All of Me, Why not take all of me!
Two weeks ago this Sunday, I started the South Beach Diet. It is certainly the best diet I have ever tried. No calories to count, no portions to weigh. The list of allowed food is long and the disallowed food is pretty obvious stuff that is bad for you anyway. In less than two weeks, I've lost 12 pounds! Tomorrow is the first day I get to eat fruit again. That will be nice.
The good thing about this diet is that it is designed for diabetics and people who have high cholesteral. That would be me! So, I should see those areas improve in time. (Don't get spastic about the diabetic thing. I'm what is known as a prediabetic. If I don't behave, I'll end up there, so I have to watch the sugar a lot.
Bob
The good thing about this diet is that it is designed for diabetics and people who have high cholesteral. That would be me! So, I should see those areas improve in time. (Don't get spastic about the diabetic thing. I'm what is known as a prediabetic. If I don't behave, I'll end up there, so I have to watch the sugar a lot.
Bob
Thursday, June 10, 2004
Margaret Thatcher Foundation
Margaret Thatcher Foundation: "President Reagan was one of my closest political and dearest personal friends.
He will be missed not only by those who knew him and not only by the nation that he served so proudly and loved so deeply, but also by millions of men and women who live in freedom today because of the policies he pursued
Ronald Reagan had a higher claim than any other leader to have won the Cold War for liberty and he did it without a shot being fired.
To have achieved so much against so many odds and with such humour and humanity made Ronald Reagan a truly great American hero."
He will be missed not only by those who knew him and not only by the nation that he served so proudly and loved so deeply, but also by millions of men and women who live in freedom today because of the policies he pursued
Ronald Reagan had a higher claim than any other leader to have won the Cold War for liberty and he did it without a shot being fired.
To have achieved so much against so many odds and with such humour and humanity made Ronald Reagan a truly great American hero."
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
Ronald Reagan's Passing
A friend reminded me that I hadn't posted anything about Ronald Reagan. His passing was a flood of memories for me. I saw him in person at the Nixon Library opening. He was my favorite president, though most think that was Nixon. But Reagan really held my heart and I shared his philosophy more than any other President's. Pretty happy with GWB too.
I feel so sad for Nancy. Their marriage was an incredible example to all about devotion and selfless love. I hope she can find peace now and rest some.
My favorite RR story tells what a fanatical young Republican I was. When my little sister Robin wanted to go trick or treating one year, nobody wanted to take her. I told her I would take her if she would yell at every house, "Trick or Treat. Vote for Ronald Reagan!" She did and I had a great time.
idisk
I feel so sad for Nancy. Their marriage was an incredible example to all about devotion and selfless love. I hope she can find peace now and rest some.
My favorite RR story tells what a fanatical young Republican I was. When my little sister Robin wanted to go trick or treating one year, nobody wanted to take her. I told her I would take her if she would yell at every house, "Trick or Treat. Vote for Ronald Reagan!" She did and I had a great time.
idisk
Saturday, June 05, 2004
Power Line
Power Line: "The boom continues. The Labor Department's May report estimates that that the economy added 248,000 jobs last month. Consistent with recent experience, that number is likely to be adjusted upward when the final numbers are in. Current job increase numbers for March and April are 353,000 and 346,000 respectively, meaning that the economy has added nearly 1,000,000 new jobs in the last three months.
The Associated Press notes that the jobs report 'was good news for President Bush.' But the AP wouldn't want anyone to draw the wrong conclusions, so it can't resist adding:
Still, the economy is far from the booming 1990s. Last month, 8.2 million people remained unemployed.
It's always fun when liberals do statistics. Current unemployment rate: 5.6%. Average unemployment rate during the 'booming 1990s': 5.76%.
UPDATE: The Bush campaign has lost no time incorporating these data into a new television ad. See it here. The main statistic they're using is 1.4 million new jobs since August. The current job creation rate is, of course, much better than that."
The Associated Press notes that the jobs report 'was good news for President Bush.' But the AP wouldn't want anyone to draw the wrong conclusions, so it can't resist adding:
Still, the economy is far from the booming 1990s. Last month, 8.2 million people remained unemployed.
It's always fun when liberals do statistics. Current unemployment rate: 5.6%. Average unemployment rate during the 'booming 1990s': 5.76%.
UPDATE: The Bush campaign has lost no time incorporating these data into a new television ad. See it here. The main statistic they're using is 1.4 million new jobs since August. The current job creation rate is, of course, much better than that."
Friday, June 04, 2004
Fluval
Ha! Got my Fluval installed today. Let's see who can be the first to tell me what a Fluval is. It wasn't easy, either.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
BobBlog :: Manage Posts
Gotta figure out how to make this smaller!
My attempt at posting a picture of my daughter Elizabeth on a pony.
My attempt at posting a picture of my daughter Elizabeth on a pony.
Saturday, May 22, 2004
Subject: Profanity
I'm a person who really hates to listen to profanity. It disturbs me and I'm uncomfortable around it. This article from Christianity Today made me think a lot. What do you think about it?
Bob
by Jeffrey Overstreet
posted 05/21/04
Q: I'm surprised to see that Christianity Today Movies sometimes gives good reviews to movies that have lots of profanity. How can you justify that?
A: Foul language, like murder, pride, jealousy, and other sinful behavior, is part of the reality of our world. People do these things. Art reflects our world, and thus responsible artists will sometimes reflect the flaws of our world. Some of these flaws may be troubling, but that does not mean the artist has done something wrong. They may be merely reflecting the real world honestly.
Imagine what the Bible would be like if it did not portray people committing adultery, lying, stealing, speaking harshly with each other, betraying each other, murdering each other. Just because bad behavior is portrayed in a story does not mean that such behavior is being condoned. We must weigh carefully whether we think such behavior is being recommended or merely reflected.
Paul exhorts us to avoid letting "any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths" (Eph. 4:29). This includes gossip, self-righteous put-downs and condescension, arrogance, and prideful talk. We should not speak this way. I don't think this means we should never listen to such talk. If so, then we must turn off almost every program on television, even children's stories, where characters speak pridefully, arrogantly, and harshly with each other as part of typical storytelling.
I have worked among people who use profanity excessively all of the time. It is the way that many people talk. Instead of running away from those people, I am challenged to listen to them, to understand what they are saying, to have patience with them and to love them. Moreover, I am challenged to be strong and to ask the Lord to help me avoid absorbing their way of talking. Foul language is often used to get the attention of others, to help the speaker express a sense of frustration or powerlessness. I should be able to listen and respond with patience and grace. If I cannot deal with this harsh reality when it is reflected in art, I certainly will not be able to deal with it when someone is shouting at me or speaking harshly in my presence.
Discerning moviegoers should consider these questions when they encounter harsh language in a film:
What does the foul language tell me about the character who is speaking? Why are they speaking that way?
Does the filmmaker want me to admire this character? Or is this merely part of the character's flawed nature? If a film glorifies bad behavior, we should acknowledge this. We may still do well to pay attention to the film, though, since one character's language is only a small part of a larger whole which may include meaningful storytelling and moments of revelation. Each viewer must attend to their conscience, and we must not judge each other for our differing choices. Only when a person begins to exhibit the misbehavior that they encounter should we suggest that they reconsider whether they are strong enough to spend time contemplating such art and entertainment.
Does seeing such behavior lead me to absorb and mimic such behavior? If so, I should avoid this kind of film until I am strong enough in spirit to deflect such harsh realities. Perhaps I should avoid such films entirely.
Children have not yet developed strong filters for separating wise behavior from foolish behavior. Is this film exhibiting behavior that might influence a child? If so, we should protect that child from such material until they are ready, just as we would keep them from a meal in which the fish might contain tiny bones on which they could choke. Furthermore, we should train up children to remove the bones, to be careful about what they watch and resist imitating bad behavior.
If the portrayal of bad behavior is unethical, than we must all quit paying attention to any kind of stories. Shakespeare is full of coarse language. Scripture itself includes foul language, although our English translations have softened some of it. What the New International Version calls "rubbish" was, in earlier translations, a term equivalent to dung. The Apostle Paul, in discussing the accomplishments of the Pharisees, compared such acts to … well … you know what I mean. Indeed, Scripture includes descriptions of some of the most reprehensible behavior in all of history.
Jesus did not demand that those he talked with clean up their act before they approached him. He loved them, listened to them, and went to work on the heart, knowing that was more important than starting in on the surface details.
Bob
by Jeffrey Overstreet
posted 05/21/04
Q: I'm surprised to see that Christianity Today Movies sometimes gives good reviews to movies that have lots of profanity. How can you justify that?
A: Foul language, like murder, pride, jealousy, and other sinful behavior, is part of the reality of our world. People do these things. Art reflects our world, and thus responsible artists will sometimes reflect the flaws of our world. Some of these flaws may be troubling, but that does not mean the artist has done something wrong. They may be merely reflecting the real world honestly.
Imagine what the Bible would be like if it did not portray people committing adultery, lying, stealing, speaking harshly with each other, betraying each other, murdering each other. Just because bad behavior is portrayed in a story does not mean that such behavior is being condoned. We must weigh carefully whether we think such behavior is being recommended or merely reflected.
Paul exhorts us to avoid letting "any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths" (Eph. 4:29). This includes gossip, self-righteous put-downs and condescension, arrogance, and prideful talk. We should not speak this way. I don't think this means we should never listen to such talk. If so, then we must turn off almost every program on television, even children's stories, where characters speak pridefully, arrogantly, and harshly with each other as part of typical storytelling.
I have worked among people who use profanity excessively all of the time. It is the way that many people talk. Instead of running away from those people, I am challenged to listen to them, to understand what they are saying, to have patience with them and to love them. Moreover, I am challenged to be strong and to ask the Lord to help me avoid absorbing their way of talking. Foul language is often used to get the attention of others, to help the speaker express a sense of frustration or powerlessness. I should be able to listen and respond with patience and grace. If I cannot deal with this harsh reality when it is reflected in art, I certainly will not be able to deal with it when someone is shouting at me or speaking harshly in my presence.
Discerning moviegoers should consider these questions when they encounter harsh language in a film:
What does the foul language tell me about the character who is speaking? Why are they speaking that way?
Does the filmmaker want me to admire this character? Or is this merely part of the character's flawed nature? If a film glorifies bad behavior, we should acknowledge this. We may still do well to pay attention to the film, though, since one character's language is only a small part of a larger whole which may include meaningful storytelling and moments of revelation. Each viewer must attend to their conscience, and we must not judge each other for our differing choices. Only when a person begins to exhibit the misbehavior that they encounter should we suggest that they reconsider whether they are strong enough to spend time contemplating such art and entertainment.
Does seeing such behavior lead me to absorb and mimic such behavior? If so, I should avoid this kind of film until I am strong enough in spirit to deflect such harsh realities. Perhaps I should avoid such films entirely.
Children have not yet developed strong filters for separating wise behavior from foolish behavior. Is this film exhibiting behavior that might influence a child? If so, we should protect that child from such material until they are ready, just as we would keep them from a meal in which the fish might contain tiny bones on which they could choke. Furthermore, we should train up children to remove the bones, to be careful about what they watch and resist imitating bad behavior.
If the portrayal of bad behavior is unethical, than we must all quit paying attention to any kind of stories. Shakespeare is full of coarse language. Scripture itself includes foul language, although our English translations have softened some of it. What the New International Version calls "rubbish" was, in earlier translations, a term equivalent to dung. The Apostle Paul, in discussing the accomplishments of the Pharisees, compared such acts to … well … you know what I mean. Indeed, Scripture includes descriptions of some of the most reprehensible behavior in all of history.
Jesus did not demand that those he talked with clean up their act before they approached him. He loved them, listened to them, and went to work on the heart, knowing that was more important than starting in on the surface details.
My Friday. TGIF!
Been so busy this week. Had computer problems at the school. Server went down and the kids couldn't work. Dog and Pony show all day long. Yuck.
Going to look at furniture again today. Looking for a big bookcase. Also, got the new pool filter in yesterday! Pool is actually starting to look good again. Took long enough to get it installed.
So, we've put in new carpet downstairs, new tile, got the pool fixed and getting new windows soon. I think I'm probably broke now. :-)
Going to look at furniture again today. Looking for a big bookcase. Also, got the new pool filter in yesterday! Pool is actually starting to look good again. Took long enough to get it installed.
So, we've put in new carpet downstairs, new tile, got the pool fixed and getting new windows soon. I think I'm probably broke now. :-)
Thursday, May 20, 2004
Software Woes
Today our server at school crashed. Bad Kernel. Don't remember eating any corn upstairs. Well, Joey and I worked on it and didn't get anywhere. I decided it was an issue for Norton Utilities. I went to Walmart and bought something similar. Got back upstairs at school, opened the box, and hey! There's no cd in there! Had to go back and get another. Found almost all the boxes on the shelves had been opened and were empty. Walmart, get your security people to wake up, you're losing money!
Sunday, May 16, 2004
More Birthday
Well, I went to my folks for my birthday dinner. Every year Mom makes me enchiladas, frijoles, fideo, salad and dessert. Yum! I never ask for any other dinner. Nobody makes enchiladas as good as my mom's. We had a nice evening together.
Saturday, May 15, 2004
Evangelist Graham Still Stable After Fall
Just found this out tonight:
May 15, 2004 09:54 PM EDT
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Evangelist Billy Graham remained in stable condition Saturday after injuring himself in a fall for the second time this year, hospital officials said.
Graham, 85, fell at his home in Montreat on Friday. Preliminary test results indicated a possible hairline pelvis fracture.
The accident was similar to one in early January, when Graham broke his hip in a fall in a hotel room in Jacksonville, Fla., Graham spokesman A. Larry Ross said Friday. Graham had partial hip replacement surgery and was hospitalized until Feb. 2.
Ross said Friday that doctors at Mission Hospitals in Asheville were to run more tests Saturday to determine the extent of Graham's injuries, after which the evangelist would make decisions about any impact on his ministry schedule.
Ross did not return messages seeking comment Saturday.
In the past few years, Graham has been treated for a variety of conditions, including Parkinson's disease and skin cancer.
May 15, 2004 09:54 PM EDT
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Evangelist Billy Graham remained in stable condition Saturday after injuring himself in a fall for the second time this year, hospital officials said.
Graham, 85, fell at his home in Montreat on Friday. Preliminary test results indicated a possible hairline pelvis fracture.
The accident was similar to one in early January, when Graham broke his hip in a fall in a hotel room in Jacksonville, Fla., Graham spokesman A. Larry Ross said Friday. Graham had partial hip replacement surgery and was hospitalized until Feb. 2.
Ross said Friday that doctors at Mission Hospitals in Asheville were to run more tests Saturday to determine the extent of Graham's injuries, after which the evangelist would make decisions about any impact on his ministry schedule.
Ross did not return messages seeking comment Saturday.
In the past few years, Graham has been treated for a variety of conditions, including Parkinson's disease and skin cancer.
Happy Birthday To Me
Well, I'm still a year short of 50, but time is trickling by quickly! Hard to believe I'm older than Jack Benny...
Got a new printer from Connie for my birthday. I was still using an Epson 740. Not a bad printer, but I can't believe how much better this one is. She got me an Epson C84. It seems to have a much finer jet spray. The letters are so much crisper as are the photos. Prints way faster too. I think my 740 was about 5 years old, give or take a year.
So, I'm off to print!
Happy birthday to me.
Bob
Got a new printer from Connie for my birthday. I was still using an Epson 740. Not a bad printer, but I can't believe how much better this one is. She got me an Epson C84. It seems to have a much finer jet spray. The letters are so much crisper as are the photos. Prints way faster too. I think my 740 was about 5 years old, give or take a year.
So, I'm off to print!
Happy birthday to me.
Bob
Welcome To The New BobBlog
I have decided to move my Bobblog from the Polywogg server I was using for a variety of reasons. One reason was that I didn't know when I set it up that my friends would have to pay to subscribe and post to it. Only people registered with Polywogg could post for free and I didn't know any of them! So, here you can respond to the things I share and post. I hope you will. I want to hear from my friends. I'll post my daily things that happen to me as well as my opinions on the news of the world, country and religion. I hope you'll continue to read here online and write back to me as well.
I'll be looking for you here!
Bob
I'll be looking for you here!
Bob
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