2009 will be just fine,
so sit back and relax,
and enjoy the facts,
Obama is president, hooray,
everything's gonna be OK!
bush is soon gone and forgotten,
we can now clean up all that is rotten,
the last eight years have been, well,
some would say HELL,
it will take a lot to fix what's wrong,
and we must all pitch in and be strong,
only together can we work this out,
this is what america is all about,
so stop the whining, complaining, and finger-pointing,
americans have spoken,
on january 20th, 2009,
there will be an historic anointing."
www.franklandfield.blogspot.com
on YouTube under, "franklandfields"
happy new year.
enjoy.
peace.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
good talk
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/steven_pinker_chalks_it_up_to_the_blank_slate.html
well worth viewing.
enjoy.
peace.
well worth viewing.
enjoy.
peace.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
chocolate news
chocolate news is one of the best shows currently on TV.
check it out.
let me know what you think.
peace.
check it out.
let me know what you think.
peace.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
from iPhone
raining today.
mother earth is enjoying it.
as is said:
"no rain, no rainbows".
and then some.
peace
mother earth is enjoying it.
as is said:
"no rain, no rainbows".
and then some.
peace
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
the day the earth stood still
good movie.
i recommend it.
thumbs up.
good film and great message.
i hope everybody will see it.
peace.
i recommend it.
thumbs up.
good film and great message.
i hope everybody will see it.
peace.
Monday, December 08, 2008
did you know?
at least two people in this world love you so much they would die for you.
at least fifteen people in this world love you in some way.
a smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
every night, somebody somewhere thinks about you before they go to sleep.
you mean the world to someone.
if not for you, someone may not be living.
you are special and unique.
when you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.
when you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.
someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
always remember the compliments you received. forget about the rude remarks.
always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know, and you'll both be happy.
if you have a great friend, take the time to let that person know.
and always spread peace.
at least fifteen people in this world love you in some way.
a smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
every night, somebody somewhere thinks about you before they go to sleep.
you mean the world to someone.
if not for you, someone may not be living.
you are special and unique.
when you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.
when you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.
someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
always remember the compliments you received. forget about the rude remarks.
always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know, and you'll both be happy.
if you have a great friend, take the time to let that person know.
and always spread peace.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
hibiscus and two films to see
four christmas's
and
role models
for those who love to laugh
enjoy
happy holidays
peace
Thursday, December 04, 2008
sleep
a friend of mine says:
"i'll get the best sleep of my life when i'm dead."
i've got something better. i am now getting the best sleep of my life AND i'm waking up afterward!
i've recently purchased a tempur-pedic bed.
the old bed was old. i cannot tell you how old, because i'm ashamed.
the new tempur-pedic bed is HEAVEN! it's difficult to describe to people who have never experienced sleeping on one, but i'll try.
think about sleeping on a cloud, filled with warm water, as if you're floating, with no pressure on any part of your body. think about waking up with NO aches and pains. think about sleeping so deeply, practically nothing bothers you or wakes you, and you rarely recall your dreams. think about your bed being the perfect temperature, no matter what temperature you or your room are. think this is too good to be true? i'm here to tell you it is not.
tempur-pedic will let you try their mattress and return it if you don't like it. they do this, because very few people return their mattress. and i know why.
it is the best sleep i've ever had. from now on, i will stay in hotels with tempur-pedic beds. i don't think i'd sleep very well on anything else.
this isn't an ad for tempur-pedic. this is me telling you how well i'm sleeping now that i have a tempur-pedic bed. this is me overjoyed with the increased energy i have from less sleep. when you sleep better, you need less sleep. it is amazing and wonderful and a bag of chips.
and now on with the rest of the day.
peace.
"i'll get the best sleep of my life when i'm dead."
i've got something better. i am now getting the best sleep of my life AND i'm waking up afterward!
i've recently purchased a tempur-pedic bed.
the old bed was old. i cannot tell you how old, because i'm ashamed.
the new tempur-pedic bed is HEAVEN! it's difficult to describe to people who have never experienced sleeping on one, but i'll try.
think about sleeping on a cloud, filled with warm water, as if you're floating, with no pressure on any part of your body. think about waking up with NO aches and pains. think about sleeping so deeply, practically nothing bothers you or wakes you, and you rarely recall your dreams. think about your bed being the perfect temperature, no matter what temperature you or your room are. think this is too good to be true? i'm here to tell you it is not.
tempur-pedic will let you try their mattress and return it if you don't like it. they do this, because very few people return their mattress. and i know why.
it is the best sleep i've ever had. from now on, i will stay in hotels with tempur-pedic beds. i don't think i'd sleep very well on anything else.
this isn't an ad for tempur-pedic. this is me telling you how well i'm sleeping now that i have a tempur-pedic bed. this is me overjoyed with the increased energy i have from less sleep. when you sleep better, you need less sleep. it is amazing and wonderful and a bag of chips.
and now on with the rest of the day.
peace.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
yes we can, yes we did, and yes we will
http://change.gov/newsroom/entry/your_weekly_address_from_the_president_elect/
Friday, November 14, 2008
Friday, November 07, 2008
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
perspective
http://www.aish.com/heroesOfIsrael/heroesOfIsraelDefault/From_Ethiopia_to_Israels_Knesset.asp
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Friday, October 24, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
quote of the day
"One of the major reasons so many of us remain hurried, frightened, and competitive, and continue to live life as if it were one giant emergency, is our fear that if we were to become more peaceful and loving, we would suddenly stop achieving our goals. We would become lazy and apathetic."
by Richard Carlson, PH.D.
from his book, Don't Sweat The Small Stuff...and it's all small stuff.
by Richard Carlson, PH.D.
from his book, Don't Sweat The Small Stuff...and it's all small stuff.
Friday, October 17, 2008
W.
i just saw W., and i endorse it, and give it a thumbs up.
i'm talking oscar worthy.
what do you think?
peace.
i'm talking oscar worthy.
what do you think?
peace.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Friday, October 03, 2008
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
President John McCain
PLEASE VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH, 2008!
if i were president john mcCain, here are the first ten things i'd do in my first ten days as president of our united states.
day 1 - install a state of the art emergency room in the white house. i am after all 72 years old.
day 2 - remove all the grass at the white house and replace it with environmentally friendly and water conserving plants.
day 3 - i'd have a really close look in all the white house closets. there has to be some skeletons someplace. and time permitting, go on a moose hunt with my vice president.
day 4 - i'd have my staff calculate the exact number of vacation days that george w. bush took while in office (a record) to make certain i didn't take more.
day 5 - since i've been in office now for a week, i'd take a break at one of my nine (or is it ten?) houses, and perhaps buy another pair of $300 italian shoes. they are so comfy!
day 6 - i'd telephone putin, the saudi's, and others, and make it crystal clear to them that if they misbehave, i'll start another war.
day 7 - i'd ask my military advisers and generals if it was actually possible to start another war, because i think all our troops are currently over-committed around the world.
day 8 - i'd reinstate the draft, raising the age to 50.
day 9 - i'd take a nap. it's exhausting being president, especially when you're 72 years old.
day 10 - i'd come to my senses, apologize to the american people, and the rest of the world, resign my presidency, and have my vice president resign too, and then i'd declare our new president to be President Barack Obama.
of course all this hinges on me actually being elected on november 4th, 2008.
and surviving the revolution between then and january 20, 2009.
but we all have a dream.
PLEASE VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH, 2008!
if i were president john mcCain, here are the first ten things i'd do in my first ten days as president of our united states.
day 1 - install a state of the art emergency room in the white house. i am after all 72 years old.
day 2 - remove all the grass at the white house and replace it with environmentally friendly and water conserving plants.
day 3 - i'd have a really close look in all the white house closets. there has to be some skeletons someplace. and time permitting, go on a moose hunt with my vice president.
day 4 - i'd have my staff calculate the exact number of vacation days that george w. bush took while in office (a record) to make certain i didn't take more.
day 5 - since i've been in office now for a week, i'd take a break at one of my nine (or is it ten?) houses, and perhaps buy another pair of $300 italian shoes. they are so comfy!
day 6 - i'd telephone putin, the saudi's, and others, and make it crystal clear to them that if they misbehave, i'll start another war.
day 7 - i'd ask my military advisers and generals if it was actually possible to start another war, because i think all our troops are currently over-committed around the world.
day 8 - i'd reinstate the draft, raising the age to 50.
day 9 - i'd take a nap. it's exhausting being president, especially when you're 72 years old.
day 10 - i'd come to my senses, apologize to the american people, and the rest of the world, resign my presidency, and have my vice president resign too, and then i'd declare our new president to be President Barack Obama.
of course all this hinges on me actually being elected on november 4th, 2008.
and surviving the revolution between then and january 20, 2009.
but we all have a dream.
PLEASE VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH, 2008!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
opinion
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/30/opinion/30herbert.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
one cannot debate the facts of history.
one cannot debate the facts of history.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
White Tea and The CrackaHeds
announcing a brand new improv performance group available for your "special" function(s).
for bookings, contact franklandfield@yahoo.com
thanks and peace.
for bookings, contact franklandfield@yahoo.com
thanks and peace.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
OK
http://finance.yahoo.com/loans/article/105735/The-65-mpg-Ford-the-U.S.-Can%27t-Have
well, OK then.
or are there "other" reasons?!
well, OK then.
or are there "other" reasons?!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
who said this?
"God made dinosaurs 4,000 years ago as ultimately
flawed creatures, lizards of Satan really, so when they died and became
petroleum products we, made in his perfect image, could use them
in our pickup trucks, snow machines and fishing boats."
"who said this" is a brand new feature beginning today.
enjoy.
peace.
flawed creatures, lizards of Satan really, so when they died and became
petroleum products we, made in his perfect image, could use them
in our pickup trucks, snow machines and fishing boats."
"who said this" is a brand new feature beginning today.
enjoy.
peace.
RIP my friend
"Bob Beck
August 26, 2008
Grizzled, handsome, locally esteemed and internationally recognizable Camel and Marlboro man Bob Beck died at home Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008, after a difficult battle with cancer. Soft-spoken, gentle-souled Beck, so different in persona from the rough-hewn Indiana-Jones type character that would and often did “walk a mile for a Camel” through the most harrowing elemental obstacles, seldom showed impatience and temper in his post-camera life except over two subjects — protecting the habitat that we share with fellow species, and what he perceived as the hubris and disregard of the current Bush administration for the care and wellbeing of its citizenry.
Said Beck, regarding our shared-planet responsibility, “You have to protect your resources, especially here [in Idyllwild] where we rely upon what comes from the sky. People who don’t care about their environment and the animals are greedy and self-serving. It would be a happier Idyllwild and world if people cared about such things. I really strongly believe if a person loves, respects and takes care of animals — which I put myself on equal footing with, I’m no better or worse than they are — they will respect those around them more. Those who mistreat and don’t respect animals will do the same thing with everything else around them.”
About the second Bush family presidency, Beck fumed, “I’m definitely for any government that takes care of its people and the environment, and cares. But politicians usually like to keep the power and control so that philosophy is usually fiction. But it’s what I’d like. People will disagree, which is part of being in a free society, but I’m definitely opposed to the [George W.] Bush administration. What they’ve tried to do is criminal and self-serving; they don’t have the environment or people at heart. Bush seems to only care about serving corporations’ needs, not serving humankind domestically or internationally.”
Beck was a trusted good friend and neighbor of this writer. In 2003, at the height of the bark beetle crisis when this writer had to remove scores of beetle-ravaged grandfather pines removed from his property, Beck called to offer condolences, gently understanding the sadness that came with the loss of strong, silent and seemingly indestructible friends that had weathered so many years — understanding that life, important and valuable, had passed.
Those who knew and loved big Bob Beck — his soft words, good heart, merry twinkle in his eyes, and love for family and causes that moved him — know that someone important and valuable has passed. He cut a strong, graceful and impressive swath through any crowd through which he passed. He was bigger-than-life and humbly and affably human.
“It is with great sadness that I share the news that Bob Beck died early yesterday morning from cancer,” wrote Associates of Idyllwild Arts Foundation President Jan Goldberg. “He died peacefully, in his sleep, with his dear wife Erin at his side. We will all miss Bob — that deep voice, that smile, the charm and good will that he showed us all. He will always be an inspiration to us of how to live a gentle, sweet life with family, friends and dogs. Bob, we will miss you.”
Beck was born in Oceanside in 1936, bought a cabin in Idyllwild with wife Erin O’Neill in 1981, and moved here full-time in 1997. Of his years as the Camel man, Beck said, “When I did it, I wasn’t that aware of the effects of smoking. This is one of the problems with doing such a campaign. My problem with the cigarette industry was they covered up the problems and didn’t pass them on to the public. For that reason, I wouldn’t do it today.”
Beck leaves behind his wife, Erin; son Matthew; daughters Liza, Kristen and Benedicte; and grandchildren."
from The Town Crier Newspaper, Idyllwild, California, author unknown
August 26, 2008
Grizzled, handsome, locally esteemed and internationally recognizable Camel and Marlboro man Bob Beck died at home Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008, after a difficult battle with cancer. Soft-spoken, gentle-souled Beck, so different in persona from the rough-hewn Indiana-Jones type character that would and often did “walk a mile for a Camel” through the most harrowing elemental obstacles, seldom showed impatience and temper in his post-camera life except over two subjects — protecting the habitat that we share with fellow species, and what he perceived as the hubris and disregard of the current Bush administration for the care and wellbeing of its citizenry.
Said Beck, regarding our shared-planet responsibility, “You have to protect your resources, especially here [in Idyllwild] where we rely upon what comes from the sky. People who don’t care about their environment and the animals are greedy and self-serving. It would be a happier Idyllwild and world if people cared about such things. I really strongly believe if a person loves, respects and takes care of animals — which I put myself on equal footing with, I’m no better or worse than they are — they will respect those around them more. Those who mistreat and don’t respect animals will do the same thing with everything else around them.”
About the second Bush family presidency, Beck fumed, “I’m definitely for any government that takes care of its people and the environment, and cares. But politicians usually like to keep the power and control so that philosophy is usually fiction. But it’s what I’d like. People will disagree, which is part of being in a free society, but I’m definitely opposed to the [George W.] Bush administration. What they’ve tried to do is criminal and self-serving; they don’t have the environment or people at heart. Bush seems to only care about serving corporations’ needs, not serving humankind domestically or internationally.”
Beck was a trusted good friend and neighbor of this writer. In 2003, at the height of the bark beetle crisis when this writer had to remove scores of beetle-ravaged grandfather pines removed from his property, Beck called to offer condolences, gently understanding the sadness that came with the loss of strong, silent and seemingly indestructible friends that had weathered so many years — understanding that life, important and valuable, had passed.
Those who knew and loved big Bob Beck — his soft words, good heart, merry twinkle in his eyes, and love for family and causes that moved him — know that someone important and valuable has passed. He cut a strong, graceful and impressive swath through any crowd through which he passed. He was bigger-than-life and humbly and affably human.
“It is with great sadness that I share the news that Bob Beck died early yesterday morning from cancer,” wrote Associates of Idyllwild Arts Foundation President Jan Goldberg. “He died peacefully, in his sleep, with his dear wife Erin at his side. We will all miss Bob — that deep voice, that smile, the charm and good will that he showed us all. He will always be an inspiration to us of how to live a gentle, sweet life with family, friends and dogs. Bob, we will miss you.”
Beck was born in Oceanside in 1936, bought a cabin in Idyllwild with wife Erin O’Neill in 1981, and moved here full-time in 1997. Of his years as the Camel man, Beck said, “When I did it, I wasn’t that aware of the effects of smoking. This is one of the problems with doing such a campaign. My problem with the cigarette industry was they covered up the problems and didn’t pass them on to the public. For that reason, I wouldn’t do it today.”
Beck leaves behind his wife, Erin; son Matthew; daughters Liza, Kristen and Benedicte; and grandchildren."
from The Town Crier Newspaper, Idyllwild, California, author unknown
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Monday, September 01, 2008
why complain?!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7535229.stm
most of us have nothing to complain about.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
most of us have nothing to complain about.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
speech
you may have heard there's a speech tonight. and there will be another one next week too. both deserve to be heard i think. neither is more important than the other. you may have a different opinion.
one fact remains, tonight's speech will make history. the speech next week might make history too. we'll just have to wait and see about that. one thing is for sure, if we don't hear both speeches, i believe we're cheating ourselves. we can only decide what we think about a speech after we've listened to it.
november 4th, 2008 will be the day on which we will all be "the decider". the decision made that day will affect us all for a long time to come.
please make the best possible decision you can.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
one fact remains, tonight's speech will make history. the speech next week might make history too. we'll just have to wait and see about that. one thing is for sure, if we don't hear both speeches, i believe we're cheating ourselves. we can only decide what we think about a speech after we've listened to it.
november 4th, 2008 will be the day on which we will all be "the decider". the decision made that day will affect us all for a long time to come.
please make the best possible decision you can.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
link of the day
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7584179.stm
if only john and george were here to see this.
i'm sure they're watching.
"let it be".
"imagine".
peace.
if only john and george were here to see this.
i'm sure they're watching.
"let it be".
"imagine".
peace.
Monday, August 25, 2008
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/25/us/politics/25race.html?_r=1&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&ref=politics&adxnnlx=1219676463-yixEhFFT/R4AkFpCWzpXig
we may have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.
in order for there to be true equality, i believe we'll have to practice it each and every day, forever.
what do you think?
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
we may have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.
in order for there to be true equality, i believe we'll have to practice it each and every day, forever.
what do you think?
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Friday, August 22, 2008
I.O.U.S.A.
i saw this film last night, and it is excellent. i recommend everybody see it. it presents the facts in a way most people can understand them.
if you care about america, planet earth, your children, grand children, great grand children, and all future children, then you really must see this movie.
and have a beautiful day.
and please save more money.
peace.
if you care about america, planet earth, your children, grand children, great grand children, and all future children, then you really must see this movie.
and have a beautiful day.
and please save more money.
peace.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/17/automobiles/collectibles/17BUGATTI.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
WOW!
WOW!
Friday, August 15, 2008
great green news
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/15/business/15solar.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
PR goldmine
i'm giving this one away for free.
hey gas stations, are you listening?!
99¢ gas for 24-hours.
could it possibly hurt you?!
think about it, PLEASE.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
hey gas stations, are you listening?!
99¢ gas for 24-hours.
could it possibly hurt you?!
think about it, PLEASE.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
simplify
august 1 through 7 is national simplify your life week. so what does that mean exactly? well, depends who you are and your current mental condition. for some, simple is easy. their lives are defined by simple. everything they do, say, and think, is simple. for others, different story. it's important, i believe, for each and every one of us to simplify our lives in some way(s). the 21st century is very complicated and full of drama. even selecting a pope is very complicated and full of drama. there's plenty of room for simplification just about everyplace. i pledge to simplify my life not just this week, but every week. in the end, and we'll all arrive there far too soon, what do we really need? it's quite simple actually. i shall let you make that determination for yourself. we're all snowflakes. no two alike. and thank goodness for that! and have a beautiful and simple day. peace. frank landfield
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Thursday, July 31, 2008
SOME GOOD NEWS!
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/us/AP-Congress-Contempt.html?hp
if i am not immune, then neither is anybody else.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
if i am not immune, then neither is anybody else.
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
AMAZING!
http://gcaptain.com/maritime/blog/gcaptain-exclusive-shellbacked-ipod-touch-video/
AND WOW!
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
AND WOW!
and have a beautiful day.
peace.
Monday, July 28, 2008
grateful and lucky
i am sitting here in the house sweating. it's about 88º inside and 101º outside. our air conditioner has finally worn out. it's been running for about 35 years. it is the original one installed when the house was built. workers are currently putting in a whole new system, and i am grateful and lucky to be experiencing it all.
i think about most of the people in this world who don't have enough to eat; who don't have jobs; who have no health care; who have no air conditioning and worse.
i am lucky to be in the place i am in. i am grateful to be where i am. sweating for one day without air conditioning is nothing compared to all the suffering in our world.
we must do something about all this suffering and misfortune and injustice. we can do something about it. we can all do something.
by tomorrow the new air conditioning system will have the house a chilly 75º. most of the people in the world will continue to suffer. i will rededicate myself to making a difference. i will make sure that every moment i'm alive, i will remember how grateful and lucky i am. i will never forget all the people in our world who have it much worse than i.
peace.
i think about most of the people in this world who don't have enough to eat; who don't have jobs; who have no health care; who have no air conditioning and worse.
i am lucky to be in the place i am in. i am grateful to be where i am. sweating for one day without air conditioning is nothing compared to all the suffering in our world.
we must do something about all this suffering and misfortune and injustice. we can do something about it. we can all do something.
by tomorrow the new air conditioning system will have the house a chilly 75º. most of the people in the world will continue to suffer. i will rededicate myself to making a difference. i will make sure that every moment i'm alive, i will remember how grateful and lucky i am. i will never forget all the people in our world who have it much worse than i.
peace.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
global warming?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7511356.stm
interesting article.
what do you think?
interesting article.
what do you think?
Sunday, July 20, 2008
what to do?
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/20/us/20mustangs.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
i don't think murdering them is the answer.
i don't think murdering them is the answer.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
b-bye
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7508842.stm
for the record, i haven't had a mouse in ten years.
peace.
for the record, i haven't had a mouse in ten years.
peace.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
"take a deep breath"?!
The New York Times
July 16, 2008
Bernanke Is Pessimistic, but Bush Urges a ‘Deep Breath’
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN
WASHINGTON — Warning of the risks of a further slowdown and higher inflation, Ben S. Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, offered a gloomy assessment of the economy on Tuesday as President Bush, speaking a few blocks away, urged Americans to have faith in the country’s financial foundation.
In testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Mr. Bernanke avoided the word “recession” in characterizing the current economy, noting instead that consumer spending and exports were keeping growth “at a sluggish pace” while the housing sector “continues to weaken.”
He added that spending for personal goods had “advanced at a modest pace so far this year, generally holding up somewhat better than might have been expected given the array of forces weighing on household finances and attitudes.”
While the risks to the overall economy were still “skewed to the downside,” he said, inflation “seems likely to move temporarily higher in the near term.”
Even as Mr. Bernanke fielded questions from senators, a different view of the economy emanated from the White House.
President Bush, speaking at a White House news conference that coincided with the Fed chair’s testimony, urged Americans to “take a deep breath.”
“My hope is — is that people take a deep breath and realize that their deposits are protected by our government,” the president said. He added that economic growth “was not the growth we’d like” but expressed confidence that the country would overcome “a time of uncertainty.” The nation’s troubled financial system is "basically sound," he added.
The president said that the economy and the pillars on which it rests were “basically sound.” And he dismissed questions about reports that wholesale prices rose 1.8 percent in June, the fastest 12-month inflation rate in more than a quarter century.
Mr. Bernanke’s mixed assessment of the economy appeared to signal that the Fed would not be lowering interest rates further in spite of the economic sluggishness, as it did earlier this year, out of concern that lower rates would spur more inflation. In June, the Fed declined to lower rates and instead suggested it might raise rates later in the year.
In his testimony, he was especially pessimistic about any easing of energy prices, dismissing suggestions that they were being driven by speculation in futures markets. Instead, he said high energy costs reflected the markets’ recognition that demand was outstripping supplies.
“Over the past several years, the world economy has expanded at its fastest pace in decades, leading to substantial increases in the demand for oil,” Mr. Bernanke said. “On the supply side, despite sharp increases in prices, the production of oil has risen only slightly in the past few years.”
President Bush’s remarks, and Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, came at an unusually turbulent time in financial markets, since it followed on the heels of the Fed’s announcement that it would temporarily open its discount window to the two troubled mortgage giants, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The actions to stabilize Fannie and Freddie occurred over the weekend as the Treasury secretary, Henry M. Paulson Jr., also called for Congress to approve emergency legislation giving the federal government power to inject billions of federal funds through investments and loans.
The actions announced Sunday echoed similar actions in mid-March, when the Fed moved to avert a financial collapse of the investment bank Bear Stearns by offering an emergency loan to facilitate its sale to JPMorgan Chase. At the same time, the Fed set up emergency lending facilities for major investment banks hit by the credit crunch.
“These steps to address liquidity pressures coupled with monetary easing seem to have been helpful in mitigating some market strains,” Mr. Bernanke said. But despite the “positive effects” of the Fed’s actions, he said that the problems of unstable markets continued because of “declining house prices, a softening labor market and rising prices of oil, food and some other commodities.”
After Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, Mr. Paulson and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Christopher Cox, took center stage.
In prepared remarks, Mr. Paulson focused on the government’s efforts to assist Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, complementing comments earlier by Mr. Bush, who urged Congress to pass housing legislation that would modernize federal regulatory procedures while stabilizing the two companies.
Continued confidence in the two companies “is important to maintaining financial system and market stability,” Mr. Paulson said. While lawmakers have said that they would attach the bailout plan to housing legislation, the timing was uncertain.
Representative Barney Frank, Democrat of Massachusetts and the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said Monday that a bill could be sent to President Bush by week’s end. But on Tuesday, Congressional Democrats said it would take at least until early next week for the House to act, citing resistance among some Republicans to the administration’s rescue plan for Fannie and Freddie.
In his testimony Tuesday, Mr. Paulson said Fannie and Freddie “are central to the availability of housing finance, which will determine the pace at which we emerge from this housing correction.”
“Our plan is aimed at supporting the stability of financial markets,” he said, “not just these two enterprises. This is consistent with Treasury’s mission to promote the market stability, orderliness and liquidity necessary to support our economy.”
David Stout contributed reporting.
Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company
July 16, 2008
Bernanke Is Pessimistic, but Bush Urges a ‘Deep Breath’
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN
WASHINGTON — Warning of the risks of a further slowdown and higher inflation, Ben S. Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, offered a gloomy assessment of the economy on Tuesday as President Bush, speaking a few blocks away, urged Americans to have faith in the country’s financial foundation.
In testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Mr. Bernanke avoided the word “recession” in characterizing the current economy, noting instead that consumer spending and exports were keeping growth “at a sluggish pace” while the housing sector “continues to weaken.”
He added that spending for personal goods had “advanced at a modest pace so far this year, generally holding up somewhat better than might have been expected given the array of forces weighing on household finances and attitudes.”
While the risks to the overall economy were still “skewed to the downside,” he said, inflation “seems likely to move temporarily higher in the near term.”
Even as Mr. Bernanke fielded questions from senators, a different view of the economy emanated from the White House.
President Bush, speaking at a White House news conference that coincided with the Fed chair’s testimony, urged Americans to “take a deep breath.”
“My hope is — is that people take a deep breath and realize that their deposits are protected by our government,” the president said. He added that economic growth “was not the growth we’d like” but expressed confidence that the country would overcome “a time of uncertainty.” The nation’s troubled financial system is "basically sound," he added.
The president said that the economy and the pillars on which it rests were “basically sound.” And he dismissed questions about reports that wholesale prices rose 1.8 percent in June, the fastest 12-month inflation rate in more than a quarter century.
Mr. Bernanke’s mixed assessment of the economy appeared to signal that the Fed would not be lowering interest rates further in spite of the economic sluggishness, as it did earlier this year, out of concern that lower rates would spur more inflation. In June, the Fed declined to lower rates and instead suggested it might raise rates later in the year.
In his testimony, he was especially pessimistic about any easing of energy prices, dismissing suggestions that they were being driven by speculation in futures markets. Instead, he said high energy costs reflected the markets’ recognition that demand was outstripping supplies.
“Over the past several years, the world economy has expanded at its fastest pace in decades, leading to substantial increases in the demand for oil,” Mr. Bernanke said. “On the supply side, despite sharp increases in prices, the production of oil has risen only slightly in the past few years.”
President Bush’s remarks, and Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, came at an unusually turbulent time in financial markets, since it followed on the heels of the Fed’s announcement that it would temporarily open its discount window to the two troubled mortgage giants, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The actions to stabilize Fannie and Freddie occurred over the weekend as the Treasury secretary, Henry M. Paulson Jr., also called for Congress to approve emergency legislation giving the federal government power to inject billions of federal funds through investments and loans.
The actions announced Sunday echoed similar actions in mid-March, when the Fed moved to avert a financial collapse of the investment bank Bear Stearns by offering an emergency loan to facilitate its sale to JPMorgan Chase. At the same time, the Fed set up emergency lending facilities for major investment banks hit by the credit crunch.
“These steps to address liquidity pressures coupled with monetary easing seem to have been helpful in mitigating some market strains,” Mr. Bernanke said. But despite the “positive effects” of the Fed’s actions, he said that the problems of unstable markets continued because of “declining house prices, a softening labor market and rising prices of oil, food and some other commodities.”
After Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, Mr. Paulson and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Christopher Cox, took center stage.
In prepared remarks, Mr. Paulson focused on the government’s efforts to assist Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, complementing comments earlier by Mr. Bush, who urged Congress to pass housing legislation that would modernize federal regulatory procedures while stabilizing the two companies.
Continued confidence in the two companies “is important to maintaining financial system and market stability,” Mr. Paulson said. While lawmakers have said that they would attach the bailout plan to housing legislation, the timing was uncertain.
Representative Barney Frank, Democrat of Massachusetts and the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said Monday that a bill could be sent to President Bush by week’s end. But on Tuesday, Congressional Democrats said it would take at least until early next week for the House to act, citing resistance among some Republicans to the administration’s rescue plan for Fannie and Freddie.
In his testimony Tuesday, Mr. Paulson said Fannie and Freddie “are central to the availability of housing finance, which will determine the pace at which we emerge from this housing correction.”
“Our plan is aimed at supporting the stability of financial markets,” he said, “not just these two enterprises. This is consistent with Treasury’s mission to promote the market stability, orderliness and liquidity necessary to support our economy.”
David Stout contributed reporting.
Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
today's quote
An intellectual is a person who has discovered something more interesting than sex.
- Aldous Huxley
- Aldous Huxley
Friday, June 20, 2008
what would you do?
June 20, 2008
Official recommends Manson follower stay in prison
The Associated Press
The state director of adult prisons is recommending that former Charles Manson follower and convicted murderer Susan Atkins be denied a compassionate release because of terminal illness.
A prison spokeswoman says director Suzan Hubbard made the decision Wednesday.
Officials at the California Institution for Women where the 60-year-old Atkins was held for decades before a recent move to the hospital to treat her brain cancer had recommended that she be released to die in the care of her family.
Hubbard’s recommendation is only advisory.
The Board of Parole Hearings must decide whether to take up Atkins’ case, and her original sentencing court in Los Angeles County would make the final decision on her release.
Atkins confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage with other Manson followers in 1969.
Official recommends Manson follower stay in prison
The Associated Press
The state director of adult prisons is recommending that former Charles Manson follower and convicted murderer Susan Atkins be denied a compassionate release because of terminal illness.
A prison spokeswoman says director Suzan Hubbard made the decision Wednesday.
Officials at the California Institution for Women where the 60-year-old Atkins was held for decades before a recent move to the hospital to treat her brain cancer had recommended that she be released to die in the care of her family.
Hubbard’s recommendation is only advisory.
The Board of Parole Hearings must decide whether to take up Atkins’ case, and her original sentencing court in Los Angeles County would make the final decision on her release.
Atkins confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage with other Manson followers in 1969.
Quote of the day
Do not condemn the judgement of another because it differs from your own.
You may both be wrong.
- Dandemis
You may both be wrong.
- Dandemis
Monday, June 16, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Quote of the day
We are continually faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.
- John W. Gardner
so true!
- John W. Gardner
so true!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
another interesting article...
BBC uncovers lost Iraq billions
By Jane Corbin
BBC News
A BBC investigation estimates that around $23bn (£11.75bn) may have been lost, stolen or just not properly accounted for in Iraq.
For the first time, the extent to which some private contractors have profited from the conflict and rebuilding has been researched by the BBC's Panorama using US and Iraqi government sources.
A US gagging order is preventing discussion of the allegations.
The order applies to 70 court cases against some of the top US companies.
War profiteering
While George Bush remains in the White House, it is unlikely the gagging orders will be lifted.
To date, no major US contractor faces trial for fraud or mismanagement in Iraq.
The president's Democrat opponents are keeping up the pressure over war profiteering in Iraq.
Henry Waxman who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform said: "The money that's gone into waste, fraud and abuse under these contracts is just so outrageous, its egregious.
"It may well turn out to be the largest war profiteering in history."
In the run-up to the invasion one of the most senior officials in charge of procurement in the Pentagon objected to a contract potentially worth seven billion that was given to Halliburton, a Texan company, which used to be run by Dick Cheney before he became vice-president.
Unusually only Halliburton got to bid - and won.
Missing billions
The search for the missing billions also led the programme to a house in Acton in West London where Hazem Shalaan lived until he was appointed to the new Iraqi government as minister of defence in 2004.
He and his associates siphoned an estimated $1.2 billion out of the ministry.
They bought old military equipment from Poland but claimed for top class weapons.
Meanwhile they diverted money into their own accounts.
Judge Radhi al-Radhi of Iraq's Commission for Public Integrity investigated.
He said: "I believe these people are criminals.
"They failed to rebuild the Ministry of Defence , and as a result the violence and the bloodshed went on and on - the murder of Iraqis and foreigners continues and they bear responsibility."
Mr Shalaan was sentenced to two jail terms but he fled the country.
He said he was innocent and that it was all a plot against him by pro-Iranian MPs in the government.
There is an Interpol arrest out for him but he is on the run - using a private jet to move around the globe.
He stills owns commercial properties in the Marble Arch area of London.
By Jane Corbin
BBC News
A BBC investigation estimates that around $23bn (£11.75bn) may have been lost, stolen or just not properly accounted for in Iraq.
For the first time, the extent to which some private contractors have profited from the conflict and rebuilding has been researched by the BBC's Panorama using US and Iraqi government sources.
A US gagging order is preventing discussion of the allegations.
The order applies to 70 court cases against some of the top US companies.
War profiteering
While George Bush remains in the White House, it is unlikely the gagging orders will be lifted.
To date, no major US contractor faces trial for fraud or mismanagement in Iraq.
The president's Democrat opponents are keeping up the pressure over war profiteering in Iraq.
Henry Waxman who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform said: "The money that's gone into waste, fraud and abuse under these contracts is just so outrageous, its egregious.
"It may well turn out to be the largest war profiteering in history."
In the run-up to the invasion one of the most senior officials in charge of procurement in the Pentagon objected to a contract potentially worth seven billion that was given to Halliburton, a Texan company, which used to be run by Dick Cheney before he became vice-president.
Unusually only Halliburton got to bid - and won.
Missing billions
The search for the missing billions also led the programme to a house in Acton in West London where Hazem Shalaan lived until he was appointed to the new Iraqi government as minister of defence in 2004.
He and his associates siphoned an estimated $1.2 billion out of the ministry.
They bought old military equipment from Poland but claimed for top class weapons.
Meanwhile they diverted money into their own accounts.
Judge Radhi al-Radhi of Iraq's Commission for Public Integrity investigated.
He said: "I believe these people are criminals.
"They failed to rebuild the Ministry of Defence , and as a result the violence and the bloodshed went on and on - the murder of Iraqis and foreigners continues and they bear responsibility."
Mr Shalaan was sentenced to two jail terms but he fled the country.
He said he was innocent and that it was all a plot against him by pro-Iranian MPs in the government.
There is an Interpol arrest out for him but he is on the run - using a private jet to move around the globe.
He stills owns commercial properties in the Marble Arch area of London.
interesting article...
"Republicans block extra taxes on oil companies
By H. JOSEF HEBERT, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 4 minutes ago
Senate Republicans blocked a proposal Tuesday to tax the windfall profits of the largest oil companies, despite pleas by Democratic leaders to use the measure to address
America's anger over $4 a gallon gasoline.
The Democratic energy package would have imposed a tax on any "unreasonable" profits of the five largest U.S. oil companies and given the federal government more power to
address oil market speculation that the bill's supporters argue has added to the crude oil price surge.
"Americans are furious about what's going on," declared Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.,
and want Congress to do something about oil company profits and "an orgy of speculation"
on oil markets.
But Republicans argued the Democratic proposal focusing on new oil industry taxes is not
the answer to the country's energy problems.
"The American people are clamoring for relief at the pump," said Sen. Pete Domenici, R-N.M., but if taxes are increased on the oil companies "they will get exactly what they don't want. The bill will raise taxes, increase imports."
The Democrats failed, 51-43, to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a GOP filibuster and bring the energy package up for consideration.
Separately, Democrats also failed to get Republican support for a proposal to extend tax breaks for wind, solar and other alternative energy development, and for the promotion of energy efficiency and conservation. The tax breaks have either expired or are scheduled to end this year.
The tax provisions were included in a broader $50 billion tax measure blocked by a GOP filibuster threat. A vote to take up the measure was 50-44, short of the 60 votes needed.
The windfall profits bill would have imposed a 25 percent tax on profits over what would be determined "reasonable" when compared to profits several years ago. The oil companies could have avoided the tax if they invested the money in alternative energy projects or refinery expansion. It also would have rescinded oil company tax breaks — worth $17 billion over the next 10 years — with the revenue to be used for tax incentives to producers of wind, solar
and other alternative energy sources as well as for energy conservation.
The legislation also would:
_Require traders to put up more collateral in the energy futures markets and open the way for federal regulation of traders who are based in the United States but use foreign trading platforms. The measures are designed to reduce market speculation.
_Make oil and gas price gouging a federal crime, with stiff penalties of up to $5 million
during a presidentially declared energy emergency.
_Authorize the Justice Department to bring charges of price fixing against countries that belong to the OPEC oil cartel.
Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has acknowledged that Americans are
hurting from the high energy costs but strongly opposes the Democrats' response and has ridiculed those who "think we can tax our way out of this problem."
"Republicans by and large believe that the solution to this problem, in part, is to increase domestic production," McConnell said.
A GOP energy plan, rejected by the Senate last month, calls for opening a coastal strip
of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil development and to allow states
to opt out of the national moratorium that has been in effect for a quarter century
against oil and gas drilling in more than 80 percent of the country's coastal waters."
By H. JOSEF HEBERT, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 4 minutes ago
Senate Republicans blocked a proposal Tuesday to tax the windfall profits of the largest oil companies, despite pleas by Democratic leaders to use the measure to address
America's anger over $4 a gallon gasoline.
The Democratic energy package would have imposed a tax on any "unreasonable" profits of the five largest U.S. oil companies and given the federal government more power to
address oil market speculation that the bill's supporters argue has added to the crude oil price surge.
"Americans are furious about what's going on," declared Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.,
and want Congress to do something about oil company profits and "an orgy of speculation"
on oil markets.
But Republicans argued the Democratic proposal focusing on new oil industry taxes is not
the answer to the country's energy problems.
"The American people are clamoring for relief at the pump," said Sen. Pete Domenici, R-N.M., but if taxes are increased on the oil companies "they will get exactly what they don't want. The bill will raise taxes, increase imports."
The Democrats failed, 51-43, to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a GOP filibuster and bring the energy package up for consideration.
Separately, Democrats also failed to get Republican support for a proposal to extend tax breaks for wind, solar and other alternative energy development, and for the promotion of energy efficiency and conservation. The tax breaks have either expired or are scheduled to end this year.
The tax provisions were included in a broader $50 billion tax measure blocked by a GOP filibuster threat. A vote to take up the measure was 50-44, short of the 60 votes needed.
The windfall profits bill would have imposed a 25 percent tax on profits over what would be determined "reasonable" when compared to profits several years ago. The oil companies could have avoided the tax if they invested the money in alternative energy projects or refinery expansion. It also would have rescinded oil company tax breaks — worth $17 billion over the next 10 years — with the revenue to be used for tax incentives to producers of wind, solar
and other alternative energy sources as well as for energy conservation.
The legislation also would:
_Require traders to put up more collateral in the energy futures markets and open the way for federal regulation of traders who are based in the United States but use foreign trading platforms. The measures are designed to reduce market speculation.
_Make oil and gas price gouging a federal crime, with stiff penalties of up to $5 million
during a presidentially declared energy emergency.
_Authorize the Justice Department to bring charges of price fixing against countries that belong to the OPEC oil cartel.
Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has acknowledged that Americans are
hurting from the high energy costs but strongly opposes the Democrats' response and has ridiculed those who "think we can tax our way out of this problem."
"Republicans by and large believe that the solution to this problem, in part, is to increase domestic production," McConnell said.
A GOP energy plan, rejected by the Senate last month, calls for opening a coastal strip
of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil development and to allow states
to opt out of the national moratorium that has been in effect for a quarter century
against oil and gas drilling in more than 80 percent of the country's coastal waters."
Monday, June 09, 2008
Quote of the day
There is still a difference between something and nothing, but it is purely geometrical and there is nothing behind the geometry.
- Martin Gardner
- Martin Gardner
Friday, June 06, 2008
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Quote of the day
If people never did silly things, nothing intelligent would ever get done.
- Ludwig Wittgenstein
- Ludwig Wittgenstein
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Quotes of the day
Public speaking is the art of diluting a two-minute idea with a two-hour vocabulary.
- Evan Esar
Never believe anything until it has been officially denied.
- Claud Cockburn
- Evan Esar
Never believe anything until it has been officially denied.
- Claud Cockburn
Monday, June 02, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
Indiana Jones
the new movie is great.
thumbs up!
lots of fun.
nice action.
happy ending.
i hope there's another one.
thumbs up!
lots of fun.
nice action.
happy ending.
i hope there's another one.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Friday, May 16, 2008
two for one
1. Speed Racer gets a thumbs up.
=======================================
2. www.bloodline-themovie.com
VERY INTERESTING!
if it's not true, why would anybody care?
peace
=======================================
2. www.bloodline-themovie.com
VERY INTERESTING!
if it's not true, why would anybody care?
peace
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/17/sports/
olympics/17runner.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
more good news for humanity.
olympics/17runner.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
more good news for humanity.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/16/us/
15cnd-marriage.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
a step in the right direction.
15cnd-marriage.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
a step in the right direction.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
E-Merge
i recently got a golf cart.
a Tomberlin E-Merge golf cart.
it's very cool.
using less gas will make a difference.
imagine, if we all used less gas, a lot less gas,
perhaps the price would be .99¢ per gallon?
anyway, we can all make a difference.
peace.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
article of the day
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/greg-mitchell/
another-iraq-vet-suicide_b_100331.html
peace
another-iraq-vet-suicide_b_100331.html
peace
Friday, May 02, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
is it worth it?
i continue to ask this question and others.
"US troop deaths push monthly toll to 7-month high in Iraq
By SLOBODAN LEKIC – 1 hour ago
BAGHDAD (AP) — The killings of three U.S. soldiers in separate attacks in Baghdad pushed the American death toll for April up to 47, making it the deadliest month since September, the military said Wednesday.
One soldier died when his vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb. The other died of wounds sustained when he was attacked by small-arms fire, the military said. Both incidents occurred Tuesday in northwestern Baghdad.
A third soldier died in a roadside bombing Tuesday night in the east of the capital, the military said.
The statement did not give a more specific location. But the eastern half of Baghdad includes embattled Sadr City and other neighborhoods that have been the focus of intense combat between Shiite militants and U.S.-Iraqi troops for more than a month.
In all, at least 4,059 members of the U.S. military have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count."
"US troop deaths push monthly toll to 7-month high in Iraq
By SLOBODAN LEKIC – 1 hour ago
BAGHDAD (AP) — The killings of three U.S. soldiers in separate attacks in Baghdad pushed the American death toll for April up to 47, making it the deadliest month since September, the military said Wednesday.
One soldier died when his vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb. The other died of wounds sustained when he was attacked by small-arms fire, the military said. Both incidents occurred Tuesday in northwestern Baghdad.
A third soldier died in a roadside bombing Tuesday night in the east of the capital, the military said.
The statement did not give a more specific location. But the eastern half of Baghdad includes embattled Sadr City and other neighborhoods that have been the focus of intense combat between Shiite militants and U.S.-Iraqi troops for more than a month.
In all, at least 4,059 members of the U.S. military have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count."
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
The Hammer
i recently saw this film,
and give it,
two thumbs up.
good movie.
in my opinion.
peace and love
and give it,
two thumbs up.
good movie.
in my opinion.
peace and love
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
shine a light
saw this rolling stones documentary today,
and loved it, and give it thumbs up.
rock on!
peace and love
and loved it, and give it thumbs up.
rock on!
peace and love
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
photos of the day
we are very proud parents of baby bananas.
and how about these clouds?!
enjoy.
peace and love.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
"Tranquil Moments"
i have discovered a machine that helps me sleep.
it is called Tranquil Moments and you may purchase it at Brookstone.
it plays many sounds. it is a sound therapy system.
it works for me.
peace.
it is called Tranquil Moments and you may purchase it at Brookstone.
it plays many sounds. it is a sound therapy system.
it works for me.
peace.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
life and death and life...
i've been thinking about life and death lately.
i've just completed a living trust, and a will, and realize it's going to happen eventually.
here's some of what i've been thinking.
seems you can't have one without the other.
there cannot be life without death, and there surely isn't death without life.
case in point number one:
the grapefruit tree. every day, almost, we rake up leaves from the grapefruit tree that have fallen to the ground. and of course every day, new, fresh, soft, shiny green leaves appear on the tree. life and death at the same time. as we pick and eat the fruit, life and death, we enable the tree to flower, bringing about more life.
case in point number two:
anytime something or somebody dies, there's always something or someone there to feed off it in order to sustain life. when a human dies, people profit and continue to live.
when a bug dies, it is recycled (eaten) by a critter who continues to live.
on the molecular level, an atom, a proton, or a neutron have lives of their own.
this is not my area of expertise, but i think these particles live forever.
even as the human body rots, life is sustained within. yucky bugs are feeding on what's left of us and living.
so a living trust and a will are simply plans for the future, the inevitable.
at least with car insurance you have about a 50/50 chance of ever needing it.
with a living trust and a will, you know for sure, 100%, it will be used.
i am comforted that life and death coexist.
i therefore conclude that i truly will live forever, in some form or another.
peace.
i've just completed a living trust, and a will, and realize it's going to happen eventually.
here's some of what i've been thinking.
seems you can't have one without the other.
there cannot be life without death, and there surely isn't death without life.
case in point number one:
the grapefruit tree. every day, almost, we rake up leaves from the grapefruit tree that have fallen to the ground. and of course every day, new, fresh, soft, shiny green leaves appear on the tree. life and death at the same time. as we pick and eat the fruit, life and death, we enable the tree to flower, bringing about more life.
case in point number two:
anytime something or somebody dies, there's always something or someone there to feed off it in order to sustain life. when a human dies, people profit and continue to live.
when a bug dies, it is recycled (eaten) by a critter who continues to live.
on the molecular level, an atom, a proton, or a neutron have lives of their own.
this is not my area of expertise, but i think these particles live forever.
even as the human body rots, life is sustained within. yucky bugs are feeding on what's left of us and living.
so a living trust and a will are simply plans for the future, the inevitable.
at least with car insurance you have about a 50/50 chance of ever needing it.
with a living trust and a will, you know for sure, 100%, it will be used.
i am comforted that life and death coexist.
i therefore conclude that i truly will live forever, in some form or another.
peace.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
The Black Grace Dance Company
i saw this dance company last night and highly recommend them.
they really put on a good show.
they are from New Zealand.
if you have the opportunity, you should see them.
peace.
http://www.blackgrace.co.nz/
they really put on a good show.
they are from New Zealand.
if you have the opportunity, you should see them.
peace.
http://www.blackgrace.co.nz/
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day
i recommend this movie.
it's a good one.
a fine romantic comedy.
with a happy ending.
my kind of film.
thumbs up.
peace
it's a good one.
a fine romantic comedy.
with a happy ending.
my kind of film.
thumbs up.
peace
Classic Rolls Royce
i took this picture from my cab on saturday, march 22, 2008, about 1pm, with my iphone.
sometimes i have time to take a photograph of something fabulous.
one day i'll pick up my sweetheart in a car just like this.
i reserve no rights to this photograph. enjoy it any way you wish.
peace.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Friday, March 07, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Barack Obama
This website officially endorses Barack Obama for President of The United States Of America.
In our opinion, he is the best qualified and the best choice.
Peace.
In our opinion, he is the best qualified and the best choice.
Peace.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
please vote
super tuesday is near.
if you want change, please vote.
our democracy depends on participation.
if you don't vote, you cannot complain later.
voting is patriotic.
please vote.
thank you.
peace.
if you want change, please vote.
our democracy depends on participation.
if you don't vote, you cannot complain later.
voting is patriotic.
please vote.
thank you.
peace.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
bucket list update
lower my blood pressure
love more
be kinder
be more compassionate
listen more
speak less and say more
practice silence more
hug more
age graciously and gratefully
write more
to be continued...
love more
be kinder
be more compassionate
listen more
speak less and say more
practice silence more
hug more
age graciously and gratefully
write more
to be continued...
Friday, January 25, 2008
tip of the day
go see the IMAX movie about lewis and clark.
it is very informative, not to mention beautiful.
peace.
it is very informative, not to mention beautiful.
peace.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
my bucket list
(NOTE: this list is ongoing and never complete, like me)
feed the birds every day
be awed and inspired every day
fly in a biplane
fly in a hot air balloon again
teach and live peace every day
take a world cruise, maybe with my IRA money at age 60?
buy a hybrid car
exercise more
eat less
stand on a street corner and hand out dollar coins
drive a 600-hp dodge viper
have another dog and cat
get a huge wall-mounted HDTV
create more art
help more people
...to be continued...
feed the birds every day
be awed and inspired every day
fly in a biplane
fly in a hot air balloon again
teach and live peace every day
take a world cruise, maybe with my IRA money at age 60?
buy a hybrid car
exercise more
eat less
stand on a street corner and hand out dollar coins
drive a 600-hp dodge viper
have another dog and cat
get a huge wall-mounted HDTV
create more art
help more people
...to be continued...
Friday, January 18, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Saturday, January 05, 2008
too many killing fields
no doubt, there are far too many killing fields, and way too many victims.
you may have seen the film, "the killing fields", or read the book.
it is a very powerful and sad story.
i recently met somebody who was right in the middle of all that.
his family was murdered, and he somehow managed to escape to Thailand.
he asked me if i'd help him write his story down on paper.
he said he'd like to make a book of it.
i said that was a good idea, but i didn't know if i was the right person to help him.
his story has been told before.
i think it never hurts to repeat such stories, because then we'll never forget, and hopefully never permit any more killing fields or holocausts.
perhaps some newspaper will want to print his story.
at any rate, i have decided to do everything i can to prevent any more killing fields.
peace and tolerance and understanding is truly what will save us all.
peace
you may have seen the film, "the killing fields", or read the book.
it is a very powerful and sad story.
i recently met somebody who was right in the middle of all that.
his family was murdered, and he somehow managed to escape to Thailand.
he asked me if i'd help him write his story down on paper.
he said he'd like to make a book of it.
i said that was a good idea, but i didn't know if i was the right person to help him.
his story has been told before.
i think it never hurts to repeat such stories, because then we'll never forget, and hopefully never permit any more killing fields or holocausts.
perhaps some newspaper will want to print his story.
at any rate, i have decided to do everything i can to prevent any more killing fields.
peace and tolerance and understanding is truly what will save us all.
peace
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