Eye Examination

I had my annual eye examination today. They used to be quite simple but now they run you from room to room doing all kinds of tests. I think it is a good thing as it is much more thorough that it used to be. The pressure in my eyes is normal. They have a new machine that tests for the pressure in case you have or are getting glaucoma. It is much more accurate as before my eyes always tested way too high in pressure for at least 15-20 years and there was nothing wrong. Now they get a correct reading.

The doctor checks for macular degeneration and retinal damage and everything was fine there too. He said I have cataracts that are growing slowly and maybe by my next annual checkup, they will be ready to be removed. My husband had them removed from both his eyes and enjoys wonderful eyesight with new glasses that have just a little correction.

I think it will take longer for mine but I could be wrong as I have such great eyesight right now and his was really bad. Anyway I didn't need new lenses or anything so it was a good checkup.

Funerals

Funerals are not everyone's fun thing to do but necessary. I worked for a man for 25 years and his wife died Dec 22 at the young age of 69. She was a real sweetheart and I am going to the funeral this morning. It is a beautiful sunny but cold day out. At least it isn't snowing or freezing rain. It is so very sad and it seems more so at Christmas time. The children and grandchilden too must be devastates along with her husband and her brothers and sisters. She was a special lady. We go to celebrate her life.

Christmas Cards and Letters

Now that Christmas is over, I will have to take some real time to sit down and re-read the Christmas letters everyone sent. There were quite a few pictures to look over again too. It is so neat to hear from people you haven't seen for a long time and see their families growing and changing.

I didn't send out any cards last year but this year I started in September, ordering the cards. Then every spare minute I addressed them. Next I got the stamps and return addresses on them and got them ready to mail. But it took me awhile to get together a Christmas letter but I finally did it and they were all ready to go. Guess what? Our card was the first one anyone got this year so I made up for last year. It was fun to have my cards ready a month in advance for the first time in years.

Truck Driving School

If you have ever wanted to be a truck driver and get your CDL, now is your time. The fastest and easiest way to do this is to go to truck driving school. This is a great truck driving opportunity and they can get you into a job in just three weeks. There are no up front tuition costs and did you know you can be making up to $40,000 a year the first year once you quality. You have to focus on getting the right training before you can get the right job for you. This company will do that for you.

Happy New Year

That's the next big Holiday to come next week. I get to go have my eyes checked on New Years Eve day. Always glad to do that though but I have pretty good vision as can take off my glasses and see quite well. Reading becomes a problem though without them.

My husband needs a good sturdy pair of leather slippers with non-slip soles and we are going to see if we can find some while we are in that town. He often walks out on the deck to get the paper or the driveway to put out the garbage and recycle, so he can't just have an ordinary soft snuggly sort of slipper. The place we got his last pair said they discontinued them so we will have to do some searching. At least by then, most of the people will have returned everything they got for Christmas and traffic should be better.

Oil Prices Drop

Storage space has become tight for traders locking up space for crude and it created a huge rift in prices between oil that must be delivered in several weeks and oil that can be taken in February. Therefore, the January contract for crude expired on Friday and with stockpiles rising at the key storage facility in Cushing, Oklahoma, the price dropped close to a five year low as brokers and traders attempted to unload for whatever they could get. That is good for the average person. Sounds like they got greedy and now have to give up their oil.

Now in a glut of supply, with space tight, light, sweet crude for January deliver fell $2.35 to settle at $33.87, a level last seen in early 2004 and music to my ears. The February contract, however, rose 69 cents to settle at $42.36 a barrel. Enjoy the low prices while we can. It is so nice to pay $15 to top off your tank rather than $30 or more.

I don't know how people made it with gas guzzling vehicles when the prices were so high and I know it put a lot of truckers out of business and they are the life's blood of our country now, moving groceries and everything else we use. It's too bad the train had to go the way of the dinasaur because anymore you feel like you are just surrounded by semis on the freeways and it is not always a comfortable feeling. A highway patrolman once told us if you find yourself driving between 2 semis, get out of there as soon as possible. If there is ever an accident, you will be crushed.

Meteorologists Oppose FAA Cutback Plan

News out of Miami, Florida says that the National Weather Service employees are balking at a cost-cutting proposal that would pull meteorologists out of all 20 air-traffic control centers across the country. They feel if this happens, people are going to die. It is as simple as that. Dan Sobien, president of the union that represents weather service workers says it is as simple as that.

The Federal Aviation Administration pays for 84 weather service employees stationed in air-traffic centers. Meteorologists would be moved to two central forecasting locations in Kansas City and outside Washington. The workers have worked side by side with air-traffic controllers since l978 after the National transportation Safety Board ruled that a crash the previous year was because flight crews could not get quick updates on hazardous weather. Doesn't it sound like a bad idea to you to move these meteorologists? We need all the help we can to keep those planes safely in the air.

Win a Gift Box of Ferrero Chocolates

There is a great contest going on at Jenna's blog between now and Monday, Dec. 22, at 5:30 p.m. Check it out. She is going to give away 7 Ferrero Chocolate Christmas tree gift boxes filled with Ferrero chocolates and all you have to do is leave a comment on her post with your e-mail address. Then on Monday, December 22, at 5:30 p.m. CST, she will randomly draw 7 winners and they will get an e-mail immediately. Who wouldn't want to win a prize like that. I know I would. So hurry over to her website and get your entry in to win that box of chocolates.

The great part of this giveaway is that the Ferrero Company is in their second straight year of partnering with Share Our Strength. This is one of the nation's leading organizations working to make sure no child grows up hungry in America. So far they have given $150,000 to this organization and you can add to that amount as well. It is easy. All you have to do is go to Share Something Sweet and "send something sweet". That is a customized e-card, and then Ferrero will donate another $1 per card sent. They will match this up to $10,000, In addition to that, for every person who joins the Ferrero facebook page, "Ferrero Lovers Unite," they will donate another $1 to Share Our Strength - up to $1,000. Let's all help the hungry children of our country, the good old USA and get a chance to win a lovely box of Ferrero chocolates.

Beef Sales Continue Despite Dioxin

This story was out of Dublin, Ireland where Irish officials confirmed that cattle at three farms have tested positive for dioxin. Dioxin is the cancer causing chemical that has contaminated its pork industry. However, they insisted the country's beef posed no real risk to health.

Ireland has already ordered the withdrawal and destruction of all pork products produced since Sept. 1. This is a sweeping move the government says should reinforce, not undermine, international confidence in Ireland's food exports. Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith, however, said the government decided not to recall an Irish beef products at home or abroad because, unlike the contamination of pork products, the level and extent of dioxin found so far in cattle is much lower.

Travel Insurance

Anytime you are planning a trip, it is always a good idea to consider getting some travel insurance. You never know what extra expenses you may incur on a trip. You could become ill and land in a hospital away from home. Not all health insurance covers you when you travel so it pays to be sure you have some that covers you while traveling. Anymore it seems you hear about many airline strikes and also weather problems. You are stranded with no where to stay and perhaps no money to pay those extra expenses incurred through no fault of your own. They also have flight insurance and more. Check them out and see what coverage fits you best.

International Media Can't Enter the Gaza Strip

The Gaza Strip seems to be in the news all the time. There is so much unrest there. Now Israeli defense officials have reinstated a ban on international journalists entering the Gaza Strip. This is despite protests from the heads of major news organizations and an appeal to the Supreme Court. After weeks of media protests, the ban was lifted, only to be re-imposed the following day as part of a wider closure of the Gaza border in response to Palestinian rocket attacks. I think it is far safer for them to stay out of there.

Monex Precious Metals

I believe most people have heard of gold and silver being a good investment for the future. Gold bullion has been purchased, along with gold coins, as well. Now at Monex Precious Metals you are able to watch a number of very informative videos. These will assist you in answering all your questions about investing with Monex and why precious metals are such a safe investment. Is your money safe in the bank? Watch the video that will discuss that matter. Get the latest Monex Metals update on video also. There is a great deal of information here at their website to assist you in making safe, lasting investments in precious metals.

North Koreans Need Food Aid

There is a critical shortage of fertilizer and fuel in North Korea. Because of this, much of the North Korean population is going to be in need of food assistance in the next year. This was announced by U.S. food agencies. The World Food Program and the Food and Agriculture Organization said that food production was down again for the third year in a row. North Korea's total population is about 23 million and about 38 percent of those people will need food assistance. That amounts to 8.7 million people who are going to go hungry without outside help. We are so blessed to have an abundance of good food in the United States. The food discarded by restaurants in this country alone would probably feed thousands of people. That is a shame.

Wholesale Flowers

This is the season of the year to prepare for beautiful tables for Christmas and on that table you are going to want the freshest, most beautiful flowers you can find. That is what you will find at this online website wholesale flowers . Just see the lovely Holiday flowers they have available. Check out the gorgeous Christmas Pack Carnation flowers that have been reduced in price. They offer you their 100% guarantee that the flowers will be fresh right to your door. That is because they are cut fresh on their flower farms and shipped overnight express so they arrive perfect for an occasion. Check out "Pick a Flower" on their site and see what each of many flowers look like. They are all very beautiful.

New Battery

Got a new battery for the car on Tuesday. The old one was a 6 yr battery and we had it for 8 years and didn't know when it might die on us. We have been having zero and below weather so it is a good idea not to take a chance. Some people had told us it could just die on you going down the road, but the mechanic said that isn't true. As long as the engine is generating power to the battery it will get you where you are going but then it can die when you stop. In these temperatures, it wouldn't take long to freeze to death. I saw a young woman walking to work this morning with her purse and nothing on her head. I don't know how she stood to do that. I hope she didn't have to go far but I know she must have walked 2 blocks already and it is another 3-4 blocks uptown where the banks and businesses are. Did you know that a Pontiac can have the battery under the back seat. Well, ours was and I thought that was a funny place to put the battery. I signed up for a $50 gas card drawing while I was there this morning and I was the first to sign up. The drawing is over on Monday so I think I have a very good chance of winning.

New Great Grandson

We got the pictures today of our newest great grandson, Caleb. He weighed in at 8 lbs 4 oz and is just a cute as can be. He is so nicely filled out and he sure looks like his cousins. That makes 6 great grandchildren for us now, 3 boys and 3 girls. It is neat to see the new generations arriving to take over.

These little children are very blessed to have lots of grandparents and great grandparents too. My husband never knew a single grandparent all his life as he was the 11th of 12 children and the grandparents were all gone by the time he arrived on the scene. We are blessed too to have lived to see these little ones.

Wedding Gifts

Since l997 this online website has been helping brides with a fine list of places to register for Wedding Gifts. Not only that but they have expert advice on every facet of your wedding. They will put you in contact with the right people to save you bullion and cut your expenses, yet have a beautiful upscale wedding your friends will envy. They have free interactive tools to help you have as stress free a wedding as possible. It takes many hours and a great deal of planning for that perfect wedding, but with their help, it will be so much easier.

Want to own Michael Jackson's Glittery Glove?

How would you like to own Michael Jackson's glittery glove? No, seriously, it is going on the auction block. After it was unveiled in the l983 video for Jackson's hit "Billie Jean", the glove inspired countless copycats, quips and Halloween costumes. And now it will be part of a five day auction next year.

Julien's Auctions in Los Angeles will be auctioning off the glove along with the grandiose gates that once led to his Neverland Ranch. They announced this last Wednesday, and Jackson is also going to have more than 2,000 other personal items on the auction. The auction begins April 21 but Jackson's possessions will be on display before the auction begins. You can make a bid in person or online.

MusiCares, a charitable organization founded by the recording Academy to help musicians in need, will be the recipients of a portion of the proceeds from Jackson's auction. So get ready, count your money and get out to that auction if you are a Michael Jackson fan and want to get your hands on some of his personal possessions.

Advertising on Blogs Pays

Advertising on blogs pays off for the advertiser as the blogger has a following of people who are always looking for both every day articles and the most unique items, as well. For the blogger, it is a great way to make money blogging. Each individual blogger uses their own talent and writing style to advance the sales of the advertiser and send more business to them. I have discovered PayingPost.com is a great way to stretch my income by making money writing about all sorts of subjects in regard to products that may be purchased by those who regularly read my blog. I get many comments on the posts I have written and advertisers, also, have been kind enough to let me know in a message on site that they are happy with their particular post.

Advertisers have everything to gain through worldwide advertising on blogs throughout the world. The Internet is International and not limited to a specific state, country, or even continent. The world has grown smaller in that they are able to ship almost anywhere. Computer literate people all over the world are reading blogs and buying products due to the posts they have seen in regard to that product. Many people who work at home producing unique items also advertise on blogs as they know it will bring them much more traffic and business, thus causing their businesses to grow and grow.

Being a stay at home retiree, blogging has given me a fun job to do. I can do my posts according to my schedule. I am able to schedule dental and doctor appointments around my job posting to my blog. If I feel like a hot cup of tea or cappiccino, I take time out to get it and then enjoy it as I work on a making the best post possible for the advertiser of the post that I have taken from PayingPost.com They have applied a new layout to their website and I think is quite spiffy. See a copy, at the top of this post, of one of the eye catching pictures on their blog.

Generic Prescription Drug Prices Drop

U.S. Prices for generic prescription drugs is dropping. The competition is so intense for drugs that had brand name success. At last, there is some good news for us. We all know that generic drugs save us a lot of money over the brand names, but now that Wal-Mart and Kmart and other giant retailers have gotten into the business of providing generic drugs, the prices are dropping accordingly.

It is said that you can get a 90 day supply for $15 at Kmart, so why so anywhere else? I think this will be a big help, especially to the elderly who are living on a fixed income. They will more readily be able to buy the drugs they need and save money at the same time. This is good news.

Anoretix

When you go out to buy a diet pill, you find there are so many that you have no idea which one is best or safe. One of those diet pills is Anoretix and you can check it out on this website. This diet pill is No. 1 on the top of their list. You will find here all the information compiled into one place so that they provide you with a complete list of diet pills that contain safe ingredients. They study many factors in order to arrive at this conclusion. Some of them are the weight loss potential, money back guarantee and overall value for your money. But there is more so check them out before you buy a diet pill.

Oil Prices Dip Again

Tuesday, oil prices dipped near $42 a barrel amid new reports the anemic global economy will lead to an even sharper falloff in energy consumption through 2009. Many people are laid off now and are not going anywhere. They don't have money for the necessities so are cutting back on gas and going places. Our local restaurant has really noticed a big decline in people bringing in their families and it is an all you can eat buffet for a good price and on Tuesdays, they get one child free for each paying adult. But still people are not coming out.

There were also indications that internal divisions continue at OPEC as member states pummeled by falling oil prices, ignore promised production cuts that might boost prices. I sure hope they don't cut production. It is so nice to get quite a bit of gas for $11 instead of $22 and I am sure the SUV's and big pickups are delighted too. We try to fill up at half a tank so it doesn't cost so much. We have really cut back on all unnecessary driving.

Dick Clark New Years Eve 2009

Who will join Dick Clark this year to welcome in 2009? Taylor Swift, Lionel Richie and the Jonas Brothers will ring in 2009 from Times Square on "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve." That should be quite an evening with all of them taking part. You don't want to miss it.

They will perform live during the ABC broadcast, joining Dick Clark in New York along with his co-host Ryan Seacrest. Kellie Pickler also will be there in Times Square with live reports. Fergie will host the Hollywood party segments. Don't forget. The show will begin December 31 at 9 p.m. CST.

Crystal Figurines for the Holidays

Crystal Figurines have always been a favorite of mine, both to give as gifts and to receive as a special gift. My good friend and I at work, both have a passion for Snoopy and have collected various forms of Snoopy, such as stuff toys, sun catchers and I have a Snoopy hanging from the mirror of my car. However, crystal collectibles are the best of all and I love "Best Friends" the most because I can get it to give to my best friend for Christmas and she will just love it. It will remind her of all the birthdays and special occasions when we gave each other Snoopy gifts for birthdays, Halloween, and Christmas and will remind her that we will always be Best Friends. I know she will put her beautiful crystal Snoopy on the corner of her desk and everyone in the office will come by and ask where she got it. Then I will be able to tell them to check out this website for holiday gift ideas and the very best in crystal collectibles. The roses are also absolutely gorgeous and you can have them forever and they will always be beautiful. Crystal gifts are outstanding in the way they catch the lights and reflect colors. While you are checking out the website Crystal World crystal figurines don't miss out on Crystal World's Web-Only Specials and the Gifts Under $50 categories too. They all make great "Thank You" gifts as well as a lovely Hostess gift for the person preparing that wonderful Holiday meal you will soon be enjoying. They are also perfect for those weddings and wedding anniversary gifts. The list is endless for reasons to give crystal collectibles.

Half-Dose Flu Shots Work for Adults

They have done a government study and found that half-dose flu shots are effective in adults. They are especially effective in women and those younger than 50. This offers a way to stretch supplies during vaccine shortages. During hard economic times, the strategy might be an option since lower doses would mean cheaper shots also. The lower dosage could open doors to vaccinating people in poor countries where flu shots are little used.

The study involved l,114 adults aged 18 to 64. It is the first to test half-dose flu shots in those aged 50 and older during a single flu season 2004-2005. The results among younger adults echo previous research. Traditionally, vaccine programs have followed a "one size fits all" approach which means everyone gets the same dose and during shortages, supplies are more likely to run out. Half-doses could be given to a large numbers of adults, if the study results are confirmed through additional research. This would enable more people to get vaccinated. This is very important as each year the disease is responsible for 36,000 deaths.

Hebron Settlers, Palestinians Clash

Israeli settlers and Palestinians hurled stones at each other near a disputed home in this West Bank city of Hebron. Two dozen people were injured, including a Jewish teenager with a serious head wound. Seventeen Israelis and Palestinians were arrested according to Police.

The clash was the worst outbreak of violence in the dispute over ownership of a four story building where settlers have defied an Israeli Supreme Court order to vacate. Hundreds of right wing Israelis rushed to the house following rumors that eviction was imminent. Hebron, Holy to Jews and Muslims, is one of the most volatile flashpoints in the West Bank. There seems to be constant unrest all the time between the Israelis and the Palestinians. I don't know what the solution is.

Online College Courses

If you have been looking for an easier way to get your degree than going to the local college after work, then you should look into online college courses at Capella University. Capella offers 111 graduate and undergraduate specializations. Not only that but they have put out a podcast recently on financial aid options. This may be just what you need to get going on that Masters or doctoral degree that you have been wishing you could get. I know money is tight right now and every day expenses are tough enough to keep up with and Capella appreciates that. So they have made arrangements to help their working students out with solutions to financial aid. Check out this fully accredited online university and see if it is for you. They have a fine line of courses of study.

This post is based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com

Polar Bear Clubs - BRRRR

In the town next to us a bunch of people decided to join the Polar Bear Club. That is the club that dresses up in swimwear, bikinis, etc. and jumps into the icy water which is about 13 degrees right now. I think they are crazy but they seem to enjoy it and they all said they were coming back again next year.

I think perhaps even real polar bears might have thought it was a bit chilly at noon on Sunday as an estimated 200 members of the Polar Bear Club took an icy dip in the waters of Clear Lake. The snow had just stopped falling when teams of runners dressed in red pirate kerchiefs, bikinis, long flowered dresses (the Lady of the Lake team) and matching flowered swim caps dashed down the snowy beach into water over their knees. One of them said it was indescribably the coldest thing they had ever done. Duh! They risked hypothermia to do this nutty thing :0).

Barbara Bush Discharged From Hospital

It wasn't too long ago that they put Barbara Bush in the hospital. She had a dime sized hole in her small intestine that was caused by an ulcer. She was in the hospital for a week after she underwent surgery for a perforated ulcer. Former President George H. W. Bush said the "silver fox" was in good condition. She is a grand lady. Her vital signs were normal and her lab test results were also normal according to her surgeon, Dr. Pat Reardon.

Barbara, who is 83, was hospitalized due to abdominal pains. They operated on Nov. 25. What a way to spend Thanksgiving - in the hospital. I spent Thanksgiving in the hospital when our first son was born the day before. His birthday falls on Thanksgiving about every 7 years. It's funny because I always joke about making a big dinner for his birthday when it falls on Thanksgiving.

Personal Injury Lawyer Austin

If you find yourself fighting for your rights due to an accident that wasn't your fault in Texas, then it is time to get in contact with a Personal Injury Lawyer Austin. They have the attorneys that will go to bat for you and see that you are reimbursed for medical expenses that you have incurred if they are not your fault. You can get on the phone right now and talk to them and get a free consultation. You can find out if you have a case right now by filling in the form on their website and describing your case to them. They cover everything from dog bites to defective machinery on the job. Car, motorcycle and bike accidents and even wrongful death cases may be something they can be of great help to you. All you need to do is check in with them. Look up the subject that fits your case and read about it too. There is so much information on their site that you can check out if you feel you would like to do that first.

Air Patrols, Cameras to Watch Record Inaugural Crowd

Law enforcement officials bracing for the largest crowds in inaugural history are preparing far-reaching security. There will be thousands of video cameras, sharpshooters, and air patrols on hand to safeguard President-elect Barack Obama's swearing-in. I, too, think this will be the largest crowd ever especially since it is a historic event as well. The first African American to be President is something this generation has lived to experience and view from our homes on television.

If you are attending the ceremony and parade on January 20, you can expect to be searched by machines, security personnel or both. Precautions will range from the routine meters used at airports to countersnipers trained to hit a target the size of a teacup saucer from 1,000 yards. Now that is skill. One thing about it, there is a bit of a hometeam advantage for the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies. All of the Secret Service's law enforcement partners are in D.C. and they have worked together on similar events, one of which most recently was the G-20 summit on Nov. 14-15.

Westgate

Wherever you are planning to go on your next vacation, look up this website for Westgate. They have the most beautiful hotels and spas too. How about 3 days and 2 nights in Las Vegas at the Westgate for $109? Can you believe it? And they are just now introducing Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgage and they look phenomenal. Check out the 3D tours at their site to see their extraordinary beauty as if you are right there. It is fantastic.

Safe Haven Law in Nebraska

I think it is wonderful that states have safe-haven laws. However, Nebraska didn't think to put an age limit on the children that could be dropped off at their hospitals. In fact 35 children, including some teenagers as old as 17, were dropped off and abandoned at state hospitals. Some of them were crying hysterically as they pleaded with their parents not to leave them there.

I saw one mother on television that said she just could no longer cope with her teenage son, so she drove halfway across the United States to drop him off in Nebraska. Isn't that sad? Anyway the lawmakers got together and drew up another bill that the Governor signed setting a limit of 30 days of age so no more of this will happen. Children were dropped off from as far away as Florida and Michigan. Five of the children were from other states. What sad situations in families.

Patrick Swayze - Winning Fight Against Cancer

I just loved Patrick Swayze in "Dirty Dancing" and loved the music especially. I was very sad to hear he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Now he is angry about tabloid reports that say he doesn't have long to live. The actor, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year, issued a statement affirming that so far he is winning his fight against the disease and responding well to treatment. I really hope that is true as he is too young and talented to die young.

Swayze says they are reporting that he is on his last legs and saying goodbye to my tearful family. That is very upsetting that the shoddy and reckless reporting from these publications cast a negative shadow on the positive and good fight he is fighting. He stars in the upcoming A & E series "The Beast" and says such coverage is tantamount to emotional cruelty and it angers him when hope is so precious. We wish him all the best and hope a cure in is sight.

Teacher Wants Attackers Doused with Acid

Can you imagine anything so horrible as being doused with acid? I can't. But a 23 year old teacher was burned in an acid attack on 15 schoolgirls and instructors. She wants the Afghan government to throw acid on her attackers and then hang them. Kandahar's governor said Tuesday that authorities had arrested 10 alleged Taliban militants for the Nov. 12 attack and that several confessed to taking part.

Gov. Rahmatullah Raufi said the men would be tried in open court. That pledge pleased Nuskaal, a first year math teacher who suffered acid burns on her shoulders. She said the girls were simply going to school to get an education and her parents told her that security wasn't good enough. They were worried about her teaching. She has told her parents she won't stop teaching and that she is not afraid. I think she is more brave than I would be.

Commercial Real Estate

If you are looking for some commercial real estate to lease or buy, you have come to the right place. Check into this website for commercial real estate and you will be pleasantly surprised at all they have to offer. They are the No. 1 commercial real estate site. Whether you are looking for commercial service listings, broker profiles, or commercial real estate listings, they have thousands of them. If you are looking for property, just fill in the blanks on the website and do a search. You can also post your property for sale or lease on their website and it will be seen by a great many people. Check it out today.

Blockbuster to Rent via On-demand Device

Blockbuster Inc. will start renting movies and television shows through a new gadget that may give consumers another reason to bypass the struggling video chain's 7,500 stores. The system unveiled Tuesday relies on a small box that connects to television sets and stores video after it is downloaded over high-speed internet connections. It seems like every day something new is invented. You can hardly keep up with it all and if you try, you end up spending many dollars for something that will be obsolete next year or sooner.

The player, made by San Jose based 2Wire Inc., is based on the same concept as storage devices made by Apple Inc. and Vudu Inc. The devices are all meant to provide a bridge between the internet and TVs. Netflix Inc. has been trying to make the same leap with a video-streaming service that can be watched on TV sets through a variety of devices, including a $100 box introduced by Roku Inc. six months ago. This would make it easy to watch all movies in your own home.

California Rains Spread Fear

It wasn't so long ago that the Santa Anna winds blew the wildfires all around Santa Barbara and other places, destroying all the trees and ground cover and many homes. Now the homes that are left are in danger of mudslides. When there is nothing to hold the ground from slipping, it will. Those people living near the areas that were scarred by recent wildfires are sandbagging around their homes. In some places they were urged to leave their homes on Tuesday as a storm approaching from the Pacific brought a threat of floods and mudslides.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzeneger ordered state agencies to prepare to aid local organizations in case of disaster. He said that the state stands ready to help local governments protect lives and property. There is a low-pressure area about 700 miles off the coast that was heading northeast and could bring an inch of rain through Thanksgiving and up to 4 inches in the mountains.

Shiites Burn Bush Effigy in Protest

On Friday, supporters of a radical Shiite cleric, while chanting "no to America" burned an effigy of President Bush. This was in a protest demanding parliament scuttle a U.S.-Iraqi security pact and American troops begin withdrawing from Iraq immediately. The demonstration drew nearly 20,000 followers of Muqtada al-Sadr to Firdous Square, the same spot where U.S. Marines toppled a statue of Saddam Hussein and exultant Iraqis pummeled it with debris in what became an iconic image of the fall of Baghdad and the end of the dictator's rule. It is too bad there are so many different factors among the Iraqi. They can't seem to agree on anything.

Friday's protest was the latest display of opposition to an accord that could push Iraq into new political turmoil even though the ruling coalition appears to have enough parliamentary votes to narrowly approve the deal. Monday Parliament is scheduled to vote on the pact. I wonder how this is going to come out. Guess we will find out soon.

Pres. Bush rallies China's Help on North Korea

Friday, President Bush sought China's help in pinning down North Korea to keep its shaky promises of nuclear disarmament. Chinese President Hu Jintao and Bush privately tried to push along a way to verify North Korea's nuclear declarations. This is the latest hand up in a showdown that has vexed six nations. It is scary to think of North Korea with nuclear weapons with the man who is in charge.

North Korea has agreed to give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for coveted aid and diplomatic recognition. This is a deal arranged with the U.S., China, russia, Japan and South Korea. But so far, they have not allowed outside inspectors and talks have repeatedly gone off course. I don't feel we can trust them at all.

Wood Flooring

As I am sure you have noticed,wood flooring is the style of the day. Everyone I know is changing their floors to beautiful wood. Check out this website if you have been thinking of making a change in your home. They have a number of different woods - solid hardwood, cork, bamboo, laminate and more. Check out the photos on their website and see just what beautiful flooring this is and I believe you will be anxious to order. Check out their various types and remember there is a 30 day money back guarantee and it is easy and FREE.

Syrian Site Could Have Been Nuclear Reactor

The U.N. nuclear watchdog agency said that a Syrian site bombed by Israel in 2007 had the characteristics of a nuclear reactor. It also admitted that its investigation into Iran's alleged nuclear weapons program is deadlocked. I know that Israel is watching Iran very closely and is ready to strike before they are attacked.

These documents were being shared with the 35 nations on the IAEA's board. The report on Iran, which went to the U.N. Security Council, cautioned that Tehran's stonewalling meant the IAEA could not "provide credible assurances about the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities." It also noted that the Islamic Republic continued to expand uranium enrichment, an activity that can make both nuclear fuel or missile warhead material. While that conclusion was expected, it was a formal confirmation of Iran's refusal to heed Security Council demands to freeze such activities, despite three sets of sanctions meant to force the enrichment stop.

Cancun Vacations

Karisma means "divine favor" and that is what you will receive when you plan your cancun vacations at a Karisma Hotel at the Rivieria Maya. Surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, you can enjoy the pampering of a lifetime at their luxurious hotels. And I can guarantee you it won't cost you all your gold to stay here.

Gourmet food and wines are made especially for your pleasure and enjoyment. And there is also one of their hotels that caters to nudists. It is the Hidden Beach Resort. There are 42 suites secluded along the beach. Swim-up rooms are great for swimming to your room or to the swimming pool or swim-up bar.
In case, they feel like dressing up, the nearby restaurants serve excellent food. Nightly shows and disco keep the guests entertained as well. You will find everything you wish to enjoy here at Hidden Beach, including 24 hour private dining.

U.S. Fired at Insurgents in Pakistan

In Afghanistan, U.S. troops launched a barrage of artillery at insurgents attacking their position from inside Pakistan's volatile tribal region, This was in a cross-border strike coordinated with Pakistan's military according to U.S. and NATO officials.

Less than a mile inside Pakistan, the strike came after the militants fired rockets at a U.S. position in Afghanistan. Taliban and Al-Qaida militants have long found refuge in the border region, where they launch attacks on U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. Sunday's operation highlights growing cooperation between Afghan, Pakistani and U.S. officers, according to military officials.

King Herod

King Herod may have been buried in a crypt with lavish roman-style wall paintings of a kind previously unseen in the Middle east. This was according to Israeli archaeologists. The scientists found such paintings and signs of a regal two-story mausoleum,which added to their conviction that the ancient Jewish monarch was buried there.

Ehud Netzer, head of Jerusalem's Hebrew University excavation team, which uncovered the site of the king's winter palace in 2007, said the finds show work and funding fit for a king. But no human remains or inscriptions have been found to prove conclusively that the tomb was Herod's. The excavation continues. The Herod of Christian tradition, found in the Bible, was a megalomanic, who flew into a frenzy when he met the three wise men on the way to Bethlehem carrying gifts for the baby Jesus and telling of the birth of a new king of Israel. Later he called for all the first born children under the age of two to be killed in hopes of killing Jesus but he did not succeed.

Designer Jewelry

Holsted Jewelers have been in business since l971 and have millions of satisfied customers. They have shipped 15 million products to happy customers. Once you check out their Designer Jewelry, you too, will become one of their customers, I believe. They have exclusive jewelry you won't find in retail stores. That is a definite advantage as when I buy something, I do not want to see everyone else wearing the same thing. They have jewelry that shines like diamonds, yet isn't diamonds but you may not be able to tell the difference, except in the cost. No matter what you are looking for, you will find it here. They specialize in sets of jewelry and many buy these because they can have more sets of jewelry for less cost. Check them out for yourself. I think you will be delighted.

Israel tanks Rumble into Southern Gaza

Israeli tanks pushed into the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, drawing mortar fire from Palestinian militants. This intensified violence that has chipped away at a tenuous cease-fire. There is never going to be peace there no matter how hard anyone tries. They have been fighting for 2000 years, what makes anyone think they are going to stop this war and have peace. Israel should have never given up the Gaza Strip. That was insanity in the first place.

Israel and Gaza's ruling Islamic militant Hamas movement have been trading fire for two weeks. This, after nearly five months of relative quiet. The violence comes as the Egyptian negotiated truce that began June 19 is due to expire next month. It goes way back to Ishmael and Isaac and there will never be peace until Jesus returns to settle it all once and for all.

Astronauts at Space Station

Astronauts made a critical step for boosting the population in orbit by attaching a giant shipping crate full of home improvement supplies to the International Space Station on Monday. This was the first major job for the crews of the linked space station and space shuttle Endeavour and it was the highlight of their first full day together. They must have all been very excited about this achievement.

There was more than 14,000 pounds of gear stuffed into a 21 foot container that flew up on Endeavour. It was hoisted onto the space station. It held a refrigerator, an extra toilet, kitchenette, exercise machine, sleeping compartments, and a new recycling system for converting urine into drinking water. Sounds gross to me, but I am sure it works. They seem to do almost anything these days.

NASA wants to double the number of space station residents from three to six next year. But they can't do it until all the equipment, most notably the water recycling system, has been installed and tested. There will be additional equipment launched in February. No matter how many times you see Endeavor go shooting off in space, it is exciting to watch. You never get tired of seeing it. It is so amazing.

Denver Restaurants

For your next vacation, plan a trip to the beautiful city of Denver, the Mile High City. It has so much to offer you. The people there are very health conscious and the Denver Magazine has all of the best kept secrets of the beautiful people. They are fashion conscious as well and some of the finest designers offer shopping at up-scale boutiques. But best of all you must visit the Denver Restaurants where you will be wined and dine on the finest of foods prepared by some of the finest chefs in the country. Dining is a fantastic delight in Denver and you will find a large listing of restaurants at this website.

Natalee Holloway Case

Aruba police are pursuing new Holloway evidence. A new witness has come forward in the 2005 disappearance of American teenager, Natalee Holloway in Aruba. Tuesday prosecutors said they are seeking more evidence against the only remaining suspect.

A woman told Dutch police this month that Joran van der Sloot confessed to her years ago that he was involved in Holloway's disappearance. That may be true, however, the Dutch Caribbean island's chief prosecutor said authorities still lack proof they need to convict Van der Sloot, who has been arrested twice and released for lack of evidence. I believe he did it and she will never be found. This young man evidently has no conscience.

Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers

Today is wash day and aren't washing machines and clothes dryers wonderful? You just toss in the clothes and go about your business. In my case, it is blogging. When they are done, I can toss them in the dryer and it will buzz and let me know that they are dry. I am not interrupted by a whole lot of work to get the wash done and dried.

Then I enlist my husband to hang up those things that need hanging up and fold those things that need folding and put it all away. I just can't beat that. He is a great help to me. He is retired so I think he enjoys having something different to do now and then, even if he grumbles a little bit. He does a neater job of folding towels than I do.

Vitamins Do Not Prevent Heart Disease

For many years millions of Americans have been taking Vitamins C and E. Now one of the largest and longest studies of these supplements has found that they do absolutely nothing to prevent heart disease in men. In fact Vitamin E looks like it may raise the risk of bleeding strokes, something that was discovered in an earlier study.

A nutrition scientist has reviewed this and discussed it at an American Heart Association conference. The Journal of American Medical Association also published it. There are about 12 percent of Americans taking Vitamins C and E even though they do not prevent heart disease and may even be harmful. I take Vitamin C all the time but not for that reason. I take it to build my immune system against colds and flu. Some research shows that Vitamin C may aid cancer, but not fight it. A study of women showed it didn't prevent their heart attacks either. It sounds like men would be better off not to take either of these Vitamins, especially Vitamin E because it has caused bleeding strokes.

Digital Signage

If you want to perk up your business and catch the attention of potential customers, then check into digital signage. It isn't as expensive as you might think and the business that it bring in will more than pay for it. You can find out at this website digital signage all the exciting details about it. You will discover how easy it is to install, change, or add to the signage. It will draw a great deal more interest for your customers than ordinary signage.

Exercise for Heart Failure

It has been found that exercise is no magic cure for heart failure. Exercise can do a lot of good for most people, but it apparently isn't much help to those with heart failure. Heart failure is the fastest growing heart problem in the United States.

They have done the largest ever study of exercise in patients whose hearts don't pump enough blood and it left doctors disappointed. The results were reported Tuesday at an American Heart Association conference. Although for certain people, there were some encouraging trends and clear benefits, exercise failed to deliver on the main goal. That is keeping heart failure patients out of the hospital and improving their survival rates. Hopefully, they will find another way to help these patients since the numbers seem to be growing.

Cosmetology Schools

I am sure all cosmetology schools are not the same. So when you go looking for a good one, be sure to look into this website cosmetology schools. You will find Regency is a very dedicated school that educates the finest salon professionals in your area. A listing of states is on their website. They are presently located in 9 states with 30 campuses.

Not only that but they have a Team that will help you find the job of your choice once you have completed your education. Just recently they have introduced a national job search engine that is free and easy to use. Just check their site for that website. You can't go wrong with Regency as they train professionals to work in upscale salons. Doesn't it sound exciting just reading about it here?

Bone Density and Reclast

I had my bone density test about 2 weeks ago and found out that my bones have improved over the past 3 or 4 years. I have been regularly taking a prescription pill once a week to help make my bones stronger and it is working.

Now they have come out with Reclast, a once a year injection that takes about 15 minutes and you do not have to have another for a year and no more weekly pills. I think it is just great. It sticks to your bones and helps with fractures and you continue your calcium and Vitamin D and your bones build up extra strength.

They also sent along some literature that said one of the best things you can do for your bones is walking. I walk on a Tony Little Gazelle swing glider 30 minutes a day and it has sure helped strengthen my bones. It is the best thing I have done for myself in the past year. I wish everyone knew that walking is so good for you. Even 30 minutes 3 times a week will do wonders for your bones. Any weight bearing exercise of that type is good to strengthen your bones. You start losing calcium from your bones as young as 20 so you can't start exercising, walking and taking your calcium and Vitamin D too soon.

NASCAR SPRINT CUP

It was celebration time in Victory Lane as if Jimmie Johnson had just won another championship. However, he did close in on a record tying 3rd title. Trouncing the field at Phoenix International Raceway, he moved inches closer to his record tying third straight NASCAR title Sunday, delivering a knockout punch to Carl Edward's championship hopes.

If he can finish 36th or better next week in the finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway , he will join Cale Yarborough (1976-78) as the only drivers in NASCAR history to win three straight titles. Kurt Busch, the 2004 champion who finished second, said Jimmie's doing something pretty special and it is just tough to beat. Actually, impossible.

Family Health Insurance

If, for one reason or another, you are not qualified for family health insurance then this is the website for you to check into. Even if you are near retiring and being able to have Medicare coverage, but are without insurance right now, this is the company that is here to help you. It is so easy. All you need to do is fill in the State first, Enter, and find your State. Then click on Get a Quote. They will help you with the coverage you need and the costs and a great deal more information. If you have a small company, they can also help you with group coverage.

Haitian School Collapse

Photo from CBS News.
This is a sad country to begin with. There is so much AIDS in this country that sometimes they wonder if any of Haiti will survive. Now they have had another disaster. A school, built on a hillside, collapsed on Friday killing at least 30 people. Over 500 students attend this terribly crowded school and many were also injured.

Rescuers used bare hands to pull bleeding students from the wreckage. It was believed that more children were buried under the rubble of the concrete building. It is thought that the school was poorly rebuilt after it partially collapsed 8 years ago. Some people even moved out below the school as they were afraid it might collapse one day and kill them. It is a good thing they did.

Holiday Meals

What is a Holiday meal without a pie or two or three? Everyone loves a good pumpkin pie with a dollop of whip cream on top or cool whip or even ice cream. Another good one is apple. Everyone loves a good apple pie, especially if they are made with homemade tender crust. Cherry, Blueberry and Peach are some of my favorites. I make my own pie crust that is just melt in your mouth.

Two Crust Pie Crust

2 cups flour 1/2 cup oil 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 5 Tbsp cold milk

Mix altogether gently in medium mixing bowl by hand, divide in 2 and roll out between 2 sheets of waxed paper.

Bake all pies at 350 degrees until golden brown.

Divide recipe in half for a one crust pie like pumpkin.

Also dip fingers in a little milk and spread gently all over the top of a 2 crust pie, sprinkle with sugar before baking. Makes them golden brown.

Merle Haggard Has Surgery

Merle Haggard had a malignant tumor removed from his lung on Monday. In August, he had told the news it wasn't malignant but apparently it was. He is recovering now in Bakersfield, California. His surgery was a success and he is in stable condition. He is 71 years old and became a household name after "Okie from Muskogee" hit No. 1 in l969. He has had 38 No. 1 hits stretching back to 1966. His wife said that she and Merle firmly believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and his healing powers and that Jesus is the greatest physician of all and believing their prayers to be answered is the key. I agree.

Hotel In Las Vegas

Let's have some fun and go to Las Vegas. We can gamble the night away or go to the great shows they have. It is fun to stay up all night in Las Vegas as there is so much going on at night. But first we have to get a hotel in las vegas. And this is the website to do just that and save some money at the same time. They have many with as much as 77% off last year's rates so you can use the savings for more fun in Vegas. You will find the finest hotels at the best rates at their website.

Snow in South Dakota

My husband just told me he heard on the news that a woman went to the door to take her dog out to go potty and when she opened the door there was a big white wall of snow. Can you imagine it? I can't even get my mind around that.

What do you do? How do you get out? I guess she said the snow plows would be coming around but not while the wind was still blowing over 60 miles an hour. We have never had that kind of snow here and sure glad of it. What we get is plenty but at least we can get out the doors.

Gen. Petraeus Assesses Afghan War

The new chief of the U.S. Central Command, Gen. David Petraeus, is credited with turning the tide in Iraq. Now he took a firsthand look at the war in Afghanistan on Tuesday. He will meet with Afghan leaders and top U.S. military officials, including U.S. Gen. David McKiernan, the head of the NATO-led force. Gen. Greg Julian, the chief U.S. military spokeman in Afghanistan said Gen. Petraeus is in the country to conduct an initial assessment.

Obama Wins Election

Barack Obama won the Presidential election last night with 349 electoral votes to McCain's 147. They were fairly close on the popular votes by the people as a lot of people liked both men. I feel more people liked Palin than Biden but that is a mute point now. It is a historical event that we have lived to see in our lifetime, where a black man was elected President. It is actually exciting to see how everything will be affected in 2008.

Nebraska Safe-haven Law

It is really a good idea. But I know Nebraska never expected families to drop off teenagers to get rid of them. Now Gov. Dave Heineman said last Wednesday that he could wait no longer to address what has become a state embarrassment. He is going to call a special legislative session to amend Nebraska's loosely worded safe-haven law. In just a few months, it has allowed parents to abandon nearly two dozen children as old as 17. That is shocking!!

The Governor had planned to wait until the next regular legislative session which would convene in January, but changed his mind as the number of children dropped off at hospitals grew. He said "We've had five in the last eight days" in explaining why he called a special session. "We all hoped this wouldn't happen." The special session will begin November 14.

Home Theater Seating

Now that we have the HDTC television set and got the surround sound set up, what else do we need? I know. We need some beautiful, comfortable home theater seating. That would make the family room complete. The rest of the family is going to be fighting to see who can come over and watch television with us and enjoy these wonderful chairs. This website has exactly what you want or I would be very surprised.

Happy Birthday Kaelyn

Kaelyn turned one year old today. It is hard to believe a whole year has gone by since she was born. Time goes way to fast. She is having so much fun opening packages for the first time. It doesn't take them long to learn how to rip the paper off and then play with the paper or the box. It is so funny when they are only one. Sometimes the wrappings are more fun to them than the actual toy or gift, whatever it is. It is so much fun watching them, it is a barrel of laughs. Tomorrow she will have another family party with grandparents and her uncle too, so she is in for more fun.

Oil Company Profits Rise

While oil company profits are rising, the outlook is still cautious. Record crude prices this summer are translating into huge profits as BP and Occidental Petroleum showed on Tuesday. However, some energy companies are bracing for tougher times, keeping a closer tab on cash and cutting spending.

Oil producers are coming off a quarter during which crude prices reached an all-time high of $147.27. However, prices have since tumbled more than 50% and the global economic malaise has raised questions about energy demand at least into 2009.

Despite a 71% jump in third quarter profit, Occidental Petroleum said Tuesday that it likely would not increase capital spending next year from its current $4.7 billion level. refiner Valero Energy Corp., which also reported July-September results on tuesday, said it was scaling back spending by 33% this year and cutting its 2009 budget.

I think I heard on the news that ExxonMobile had made phenomenal profits such as $41 billion and paid $14.5 billion in taxes in 2007, the highest in corporate history on both categories. It is on track to smash both of those records for 2008.

Baking Pies

The other day my daughter was telling me about all the homemade food she was making for her sons in college. When she started telling me that, it got me excited to do more home cooking myself. She said she had made a delicious lemon meringue pie but needed the recipe for the meringue. Since I have a "never fail" recipe, it was my turn to help her out and email her the recipe. The pie turned out beautiful as you can see here and I wish we could have been there to get a little slice of it. It looks so very good.

The last pie I made was cherry and my husband said that was not his favorite. He loves my peach pies and I have some blueberry mix in the cupboard and just might make that one next. Doesn't that sound good?

Online Degree

When you are looking for a university to get your degree, I am sure you have several qualifications in mind for that university. Therefore, if you are planning on getting an online degree then you should consider Capella University. They are one of the finest online universities serving over 23,400 students in 45 countries and 50 states. They are fully accredited and furnish a full line of undergraduate and graduate degrees in a great many subjects. Not only that, but they produce regular Podcasts by faculty and staff, as well as, students telling you about their experiences at Capella. Their latest Podcast is in regard to literacy and reading and if this is a subject you are interested in, you will want to get a copy. Check out their website and I feel you will be excited at enrolling with them.

This post is based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive. com.

Our Little Scarecrow

This little guy is our great grandson, Emry. He lives in Texas but we get these cute pictures of him over the internet. It is really neat. The little ones are so much fun because everything is new and exciting for them. They have such a big world ahead of them. They can play with a fancy new toy or a cardbox and be just as happy crawling in and out of the box.

Our children were just the same. They got all excited on their birthdays. I don't think it was so much what they got as how many gifts they had to open. And I always tried to bake them a cake in a shape like a teddy bear, butterfly, fish or something different and that was a great deal of fun for me. I had a recipe book for "cutup cakes" and you could make almost anything if you had the patience.

Israel's Prime Minister - Designate

Tzipi Livni has set an ultimatum. She says either she will have a new government ready by Sunday or she will call for early elections. She has spoken with Israeli President Shimon Peres and informed him of her decision. Livni still has 10 more days to put together a parliamentary majority, however she is faced with the stiff demands from potential coalition partners who have seemed to have opted to forcing their hands.

An early election could prevent Livni from becoming Israel's first female prime minister in more than 30 years. According to opinion polls, indications that the hawkish Likud party would sweep to power if new elections were held. I don't know just what the implications of this mean to Israel's people.

Osteoporosis

My husband and I have both had a bone density test and been diagnosed with osteoporosis. We have been on prescription medicine for 3 years for myself and a little over 2 years for my husband. Every Saturday morning we would have to get up and take this pill on an empty stomach with a full glass of water and then make sure you didn't lay down again but stand up or stay in an upright sitting position for 30 minutes.

This June my husband had his bone density test and the doctor prescribed an injection that would last for one year. It is called Reclast. He thinks it is just great not to have to take that pill every Saturday morning and wait for his coffee for 30 minutes.

I didn't really mind it but I am going for my bone density test tomorrow and then I will also get the injection of Reclast. It will save a great deal yearly on buying the prescription pills we took once a week. I will be glad of that. It is a miracle to me how it works to keep your bones stronger for a whole year. Isn't it amazing what medicine comes up with?

Microsoft Doing Well

Microsoft Corp. said on Thursday that its fiscal first quarter profit edged up 2 percent. This was brought about by corporate customers renewing licenses for servers and other business programs. Microsoft's guidance for the current quarter was weaker than Wall Street was expecting, however, shares rose in extended trading following this report.

That is a sign that investors had been worried it would be worse. You can't blame them with everything else seemingly going down the tube with the Dow taking a mighty fall. I don't have any shares right now and glad of it but wish I had a bunch of money because now is the time to buy those stocks of good companies that are way down. There is money to be made down the line.

Strictly Health

When you are on a diet, you usually go for the best diet pills you can find. Of course, you exercise and try to eat the right things for quick weight loss but it does not always work by itself. Now you can check into this very informative website http://www.weightlossguide.com for healthy weight loss information that was discovered and designed by just one woman who knows what she is talking about. ou can get a Free Weight-Loss Guide here too.

Texas Death Row Steps Up Executions

In Texas, the crowd in death row is thinning out. That is what they need to do in California where inmates have been on death row as long as 19 years. In the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's so called "death watch" cells, a dozen condemned inmates are being executed at a scheduled rate of two a week over six weeks.

I am totally for the death penalty as it is according to the Bible. People often quote only the first verse about vengence is mine says the Lord, and they don't continue on to read that if a man takes a man's life, he shall give up his own. That is capital punishment.

The week of October 13, two were executed. Two were scheduled for this week and two more the week after that. Then six more in November, adding to Texas' standing as the nation's most active death penalty state. I say good for them. I am all for it. There are some people who feel sorry for the poor condemned man while totally forgetting those they killed. What about them?

Job Losses Up - Worst is Ahead

Unemployment claims are well into recession territory. They are rising even faster than expected. Thursday, leading economists warned that the worst is yet to come.

According to the Labor Department, new applications for unemployment insurance rose 15,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 478,000. This was above the analysts' estimates of 470,000. It is considered a sign of recession when jobless claims get about 400,000.

Oil Rises Again

Even before OPEC met on production cuts, the price of oil went up above $67 a barrel. I suppose it is being raised at the gas stations all over right now. If they even think there will be less or more expensive oil, they raise the price of gas around here. I think it is disgusting. The national average was $2.82 but it is $2.39 here and some places even below $2. It has been wonderful but we know it won't last.

We are headed to a larger town tonight and know they will have the best gas prices, so will fill up at Wal-Mart for the best deal in that town. We can save over 40 cents a gallon and we don't have to make a special trip to do it because we are going there anyway. It really adds up fast. Between gas and groceries, it is taking a big bite out of the budgets of everyone.

Corn Harvest Time

The farmers are really having a hard time of it with all the rain we have been having. I heard the other day that only 1/5 of the corn had been harvested by this time compared to 1/2 normally by now. We have had so much cold weather too and west of us the snow is piling up. There are even blizzard warnings out in some places in Nebraska.

My cousin in Denver says they get a lot of snow and heard it was headed to Denver too so I would guess everything is white there by now. I hope it holds off for a couple months yet around here. My husband says he can remember one year that the farmers had to wait until Spring to combine the corn because we had an early deep snow. That would be awful, wouldn't it?

Nebraska Personal Injury Lawyers

Remember the last time you were rear ended in the grocery store parking lot? You thought everything was alright but you were injured and didn't realize it. At the time, it was hard to tell that anyone had been injured but later on the aches and pains showed up. Once you got to the doctor you found out your back had been injured and your neck and shoulders but you did not know if you had a case or not.

The best thing to do in a case like this is to get online with the Nebraska personal injury lawyers in this law office and find out. They have a short form you can fill out and give a brief description of what happened. Then they will let you know if you have a case. You can also telephone them. The number is right there on their website. Do not hesitate as doctor bills can pile up and become a very real burden and if it wasn't your fault, then why should you have to pay them? Find out now.

Bad Weather

There is considerable bad weather west of us. They are talking a great deal of snow in several states. It feels like it could snow here as cold as it is. It has been raining heavily all day and they thought we might see a snow flake or two. That is the last thing we want to see. It was really pouring at noon but it let us for a bit so I got in the car and went and got the mail. I had a few errands to run so got them all done and back in the warm house. The wind the last two days has been very strong too. I hope the snow goes north of us like they are saying. It is only October 23 and too early for snow although we have seen a dusting on Halloween before in the past ten years. The longer it stays away, then it won't stick and be around for November and December. It can wait for New Years for me and that would be too soon. The older we get the less we like the snow.

Raking Leaves - Fall Weather

It was a beautiful day for raking leaves so the neighbor got her 4 children all outside. They had three huge pumpkin colored plastic bags with faces on them. They all worked together and the Mom raked up huge piles of leaves. Then all the kids filled those big bags and tied them up and sat them in front of the house.

They had a lot of fun playing in the leaves as they did it and had a really good time. The little one, being only 2, was thrilled with all these "new" happenings going around her and she had a good time playing in the leaves too. Then they hung some other decorations in the window and put some on stakes along the sidewalk. A big Halloween picture covers the entrance door so it really looks like Halloween season. They will all have a good time going out in their costumes next week and I bet they can hardly wait. Ours will be the first house they stop at for treats.

Cubans Head to Mexico to Avoid U.S. Patrols

Cubans are heading to Mexico and they are stealing fast boats to do it. Lazaro Mendez got an alert that his boat has been stolen from the Florida Keys. With technology being what it is today, he grabbed his laptop and tracked his fishing boat's position by satellite. He could see it stop and refuel at sea and then shoot off toward Cuba.

This was the latest in a bunch of thefts of Florida boats. They like them because of their speed. He was actually able to get his boat back and come face to face with the men who stole it. He was a lucky man. I am sure many haven't gotten their boats back.

FDA will Open Inspection Office in China

Well I would hope so. We have gotten so much poisonous stuff from China lately. Last year already, there were toys recalled by the thousands. Then came the toothpaste. As part of a broader plan to assure the safety of imports, the Food and Drug Administration will establish its first office in China before the end of the year. They have laid out a plan to place more than 60 food and drug regulators worldwide over the next year. They are going to particularly focus on India, Latin America and the Middle east.

The staffers will inspect foreign facilities, and provide guidance on U.S. quality standards. Eventually they will train local experts to conduct inspections on behalf of the FDA. They expect to post 8 U.S. staffers in China next year and then open additional outposts in Shanghai and Guangzhou. The government will also send 10 employees to India. We want the imports we receive to be safe for our people and this sounds like a good way to do it.

Contact Lenses

Don't pay another big bill for contact lenses until you have checked with this company. It is simple, fast and inexpensive to deal with them online and you can save up to 70% on contact lenses. Not only that but they will bill you later and you can have up to 90 days to pay them on purchases over $100. Besides that, on an order over $89, they will give you free shipping as well. They have all brands of contact lenses and all types. Just do a search on their website for what you are looking for. It is easy.

Google in the News Again

Google third quarter earnings topped the analyst views. They shook off the economic doldrums and made a third-quarter profit that topped expectations of the analysts. This supported the internet search leader's theory that is advertising system will prosper even in tough times. Their confidence paid off.

The company, based in Mountain View, California, said Thursday that it made $1.35 billion or $4.24 per share. That's pretty good. Their profit rose 26% from $1.07 billion or $3.38 per share at the same time last year.

Google said it would have made $4.92 per share if it excluded costs for employee stock compensation. That figure surpassed the average estimate of $4.75 per share among the analysts polled by Reuters.

Maritime Lawyers

A maritime lawyer will aggressively work for you if you are a maritime worker and have had a maritime injury anywhere in the United States. There are so many different laws that cover the various maritime workers, that you need a firm such as this one to seek the financial compensation for your injuries. You do not have an extended time period in which to apply for your injury disability claim so they will give you a free consultation about your case and get going on it. Because of their experience, you can rest assured that they will do all they can to remedy your situation and get the compensation you seek and need.

All Alone 2 Video

You just have to see the horror video, "All Alone 2" written and directed by our grandson Seth Alne. He has quite a talent for writing horror videos. His cousins help him out as actors and do a really good job of it. You can check out his videos on Facebook and "All Alone" the first video was excellent and won a contest. Then he competed with the follow-up sequel video. I think he plans on doing more of them too. It is fun to be able to get on the computer and keep up with what everyone is doing.

Fat Burner

Really want to burn that fat off of you? One diet aid says it will take 7 pounds off you in 7 days. Now who is kidding who. What is best to do is check out these diet pills and see what really works. But try to Google fat burner and you will get 2 million results. What you really need to do is go to fat burner where they have already done all the work for you. They have checked out the top 25 fat burners for safety, ingredients and ease of use. And they can get you the best price and a money back guarantee. Search no more, check them out.

Funny T-Shirts

Looking for funny t-shirts. Then you have come to the right place. I don't think there is a funny t-shirt that they haven't covered. No matter what the joke, occasion or whatever, you will find the perfect t-shirt here. Need one for a major birthday - like 40 - 50 - 60? Check them out, you are sure to find one that will just crack them up. They also have a lot of sports and family friendly t-shirts. They have them all.

Cooking Supper

Tonight I get out of cooking supper. We are going to out to eat and that is always good. I enjoy the days when we eat out because then I can keep on posting on my blog without interruption. I do need to take some time out though and go walk on the Gazelle. I walk 30 minutes a day every day and sometimes more.

Diet and exercise, I have found, is the best way to stay healthy and fish is good for you too. I had to run an errand a while ago so that took a bit of time out of my day but I am back and ready for more posting. I'm going to have to check out the freezer though and see what I am going to cook for supper tomorrow night. Tomorrow is kind of a laid back day and I will have more time for cooking a favorite meal.

Fashion Jewelry Sets

Have you ever wanted some new jewelry but thought it would be too expensive? I sure have and I found this website fashion jewelry sets that has the most beautiful designer costume jewelry. And you can purchase matching sets. Whether you are looking for contemporary styles or classic jewelry, you are sure to find what you are looking for through their thousands of pieces of exquisite bracelets, rings, earrings and watches and more. If you are buying something for gift, they will personalize it for you. If you don't just love the jewelry you have purchased, you can return it, no questions asked. That is their guarantee. Not only that but they offer free shipping on orders over $85. There is a large selection of both mens and womens jewelry. The pictures on the website, although gorgeous, still don't do the jewelry justice. The colors are brilliant.

Weather Maps and Local Stations

I am a weather nut, I would guess you would say. I just love to watch the weather. Even when I am exercising, I like to put on the weather station because there is always something changing on it and keeps my interest. It helps make the time fly by faster. I have been watching the maps since last night as there was a huge storm in Nebraska and Kansas SW of us and it looked like it was standing still and growing stronger all the time. Then it began to move north but it looked like it would just clip our state and keep on going north. This morning it is huge and looks like it is going to blanket our entire state by this afternoon, perhaps. I will probably have to unplug things again and start up all over again. I hate doing that, especially reprogramming VCR's, etc. Hopefully, it will weaken before it gets here. Guess we will just have to wait and see.

Family is Wonderful

This is my grandaughter. Isn't she a beauty? She has brains too. She is a teacher, wife and mother of the cutest little girl. My grandaughter is a great help to me with all the questions I have so many times when I am posting on my blog. It always seems I can count on her to have the answer to my problems I encounter. It is so great to have close family that you love and love you back. Her daughter will soon be walking. She is definitely working at it. She will be one year old November 1st. It doesn't seem possible. Time flies by so fast. I can remember when her mother was one year old. Where does the time go. Stop and smell the roses is an old saying but it goes for everything. Don't always hurry through life, but stop and enjoy the happy moments because they are too soon gone. No one ever looks back and wishes they had washed more dishes or dusted the house more. They will remember the fun times most of all.

Knee and Hip Replacements

Both knee and hip replacements are becoming more common among younger and younger people. Many play hard at tennis and other sports and are ruining their joints. Often, a younger person thinks because he has had a new knee or hip replaced, that he/she can still do the running and jumping they did before. This is not true. The problem arises when they do this and find they are going to need another replacement.

It is bad enough when older people need their joints replaced. They can wait too long and the longer you wait, the longer the recovery time can be. I remember the doctor telling me distinctly "no running or jumping" with my new knee replacement. Another problem is when they have had the knee replacement for a long time, the bone in the thigh begins to wear down from constant use if they are very active. Then it is often a problem for the doctor to find enough good bone to insert another knee replacement. That sounds like a bad situation to me.

Honeymooners

I see the honeymooners next door have arrived home. I think they went to Minnesota and stayed up by the Mall of America. They have 4 kids so they don't get away by themselves and it had to be nice to be on their own for several days. They will have to wash the car and get all the decorations off of it. And I see them carrying in several bags, so they were able to do some shopping. They had a very beautiful wedding and a lovely reception. There were many gifts there and it took several in the family with vans to haul them all to their house. They will have a great time opening them. It seems families like to get together and watch the bride and groom open their gifts. I think that is fun. The kids will have a fun time too and the little 2 year old will probably "help" unwrap some of the gifts, don't you think?

The Weather is Changeable

The weather has been unseasonable. When it was supposed to be cold, it was warm and when it was supposed to be warm, it was cold. Now it is raining and we didn't really need that either. It was quite warm today, unseasonably warm but then after supper the wind got down right chilly, so we had to close windows again. You just don't know what to expect from one day to the next. The farmers want good weather as they are really into combining the corn and beans now and they don't want the fields to get wet. They use such big machinery these days and also semis to haul the crops. It is harder if the trucks have to park up on the blacktop and can't drive into the fields.

Concussions - Brain

I read in the paper that six NFL retired players are among a dozen athletes who have agreed to donate their brains to study the long-term effects of concussions. This was reported by the New York Times. Ted Johnson, a former New England Patriots linebacker, is one of the players who committed to the donation. His neurologist thinks that his multiple concussions between 2002 and 2005 could be the cause of his permanent and degenerative problems with memory and depression. Johnson said any doctor that doesn't connect concussions with long-term effects should be ashamed of themselves. He hopes that Boston University's Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy can clear up the debate on this issue.

Ford Taurus

Our nephew has been looking for a 4 cylinder car to save money on gas going to work. He has looked at several and finally found one the other day. It is a beautiful red Ford Taurus and it should save him some money on gas.

He was able to sell his old car for $250. We could hardly believe it as it had a hole in the floor and was really in poor shape. But it ran good and I guess that person probably is going to use it for work. It was easy on gas too but it really looked rough. He was lucky to sell it, I think.

He got a bright yellow motor scooter too as he has a paper route before he goes to work and he uses it to deliver the papers. That is a good gas saver also. He's very careful with his money as he has experienced several layoffs from his job and there could be more this winter.

Vice Presidential Debate

Are you going to watch the Vice Presidential Debate? Joe Biden and Sarah Palin face off in one of the most highly anticipated debates in a long while. I do not usually watch this sort of thing, but I like Sarah Palin and I may not get to watch it all, so I plan to tape it and that way I can zip through anything I wish. Then afterwards, the news stations always rip and tear apart everything they say until you almost do not recognize it anymore. News stations are definitely prejudiced, and it is most obvious, so you know they will run down Palin and built up Biden. It's a given.

Acne Treatments

Once you get acne, the first thing you want to find out is about acne treatments. This is a great website to check out because there are thousands of treatment options and you want to find out which is best. They have done all the work for you so that you can know that you are getting a safe product with quality ingredients. A list of the top 5 treatment options are found on their site so you don't have to do all the checking around to find out what is best. They also have checked for the best prices and if you have any doubts, check out the customer feedback there too.

SUV and Truck Sales

Have you looked around at all at the SUV and trucks that are on sale? Now you can hit the used car lots and find terrific deals on big pickups because everyone is trading theirs in for a small vehicle. They are hoping to get good mileage and save a bunch on gas. Now those who have always wanted a big truck or SUV and could not afford it, just have to look around and buy one at a terrific discount over new price. Figure it out. So it takes more gas, right? But look at how much money you saved buying it now. That will more than buy your gas for the next year and then some. The best part being that you have the vehicle you have been wanting but couldn't afford.

Outdoor Furniture Covers

In this part of the country, it is time to put away our outdoor furniture covers However, when we get to looking at them, they look the worse for weather and wear so maybe it is time to get some new ones. This online website is having a great Fall Sale and you can save up to 60% on ready to ship items. They have something for your tables, chairs, pool loungers and beautiful selection of colors to choose from for pillows. Now is the time to buy so that next year the neighbors will look at your patio with envy and you will have saved a great deal of money over waiting until next Spring.