29 June 2007
Via Ray
Ray beat me to this one, so I'm gonna let her have all the glory. Besides: she doesn't say anything I don't already feel...
28 June 2007
Just frelling sick...
Got this via Dragonwatch, and felt it was worth spreading...
Folks,
Zoie, a family pet was shot by a neighbor in front of Zoie’s Mom and
kids. The husband, Zoe’s human dad, is presently stationed in Kuwait,
under Operation Iraqi Freedom. This family needs our help to get the
word out of what their neighbor has just done to their pet.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/petition/121207854
You’ll see part of the problem is that the Animal Control officer of
Bryon, who is related to the Mayor of Bryon won’t help, and is just as
cruel, see the article at www.zoiepuppy.com.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Mrs. Mary Greene,
I am Walt Smisson and I am currently in the country of Kuwait working
with the US military and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Yesterday (June 16th 2007), my neighbor, Mr. Jason Allman in an act of
insanity and barbarism lured my family’s pet husky puppy into his yard
and beat her with a claw hammer while my wife and children looked on in
horror and disbelief. He then fired his hand gun into her head while my
wife was trying to get to the puppy.
My wife was less than two feet away from the blast and my son a mere 10
feet. Other children were in the area not mention Mr. Allman’s own
children. The chances of that bullet not going toward the intended
direction was very high and could have lead to their death or other
neighbors enjoying their afternoon in the area. Mr. Allman may have in
fact fired into my property as well. We are looking at the property plat
and fence line.
He has been in court before for trapping and killing cats and other pets
in our neighborhood. The Byron City Police were summoned by a 911 call
but before they got there Mr. Allman made threats to my son and wife
while still brandishing the firearm and then he shot our very maimed pet
as she lay there crying for my wife to help her.
The police took Mr. Allman away to the Byron Jail but I suspect he will
get out today or tomorrow.
After all of this, members of his family moved their two trucks to their
back yard and pointed them toward our fence and residence and began
revving the engines as if they were going to plow through into our home
and dog lot. Both trucks are still here this morning. All of this was
captured on video tape from security cameras including the horrible
death of our puppy and the screams of family and the puppy can be heard.
It is a sick and disturbed person that does this type of thing and I
want everyone to know who he is, where he lives and to watch out for
these people. I am over here in the Middle East protecting you and our
country. Could you at least provide an inquiry to increase awareness and
provide a sense of protection from this beast for my family and
neighbors?
I think that if he gets out there will be an escalation in violence
toward my wife and children. I can't protect my family from over here
any other way. I need your help to ensure he is prosecuted as much as
the Georgia codes will allow. (felony cruelty to animals, reckless
endangerment to residents, discharging a firearm in a residential area,
terroristic threats, use of a firearm while committing a felony.) I hope
at least one of these will stick on his record. It is so hard to do my
job when I am worried about my loved ones back home.
My wife may be reached at and I will certainly answer any questions over
email or if you provide a phone number I will call you.
I just can’t believe that staying out of harms way over here may be
easier than at my own home in Byron, Georgia.
The Byron Police Department number is: (478) 956-2880 or (478) 256-3828.
Sincerely,
Walton C. Smisson
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I wish I lived closer: I'd offer to stand watch over the family...
Folks,
Zoie, a family pet was shot by a neighbor in front of Zoie’s Mom and
kids. The husband, Zoe’s human dad, is presently stationed in Kuwait,
under Operation Iraqi Freedom. This family needs our help to get the
word out of what their neighbor has just done to their pet.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/petition/121207854
You’ll see part of the problem is that the Animal Control officer of
Bryon, who is related to the Mayor of Bryon won’t help, and is just as
cruel, see the article at www.zoiepuppy.com.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Mrs. Mary Greene,
I am Walt Smisson and I am currently in the country of Kuwait working
with the US military and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Yesterday (June 16th 2007), my neighbor, Mr. Jason Allman in an act of
insanity and barbarism lured my family’s pet husky puppy into his yard
and beat her with a claw hammer while my wife and children looked on in
horror and disbelief. He then fired his hand gun into her head while my
wife was trying to get to the puppy.
My wife was less than two feet away from the blast and my son a mere 10
feet. Other children were in the area not mention Mr. Allman’s own
children. The chances of that bullet not going toward the intended
direction was very high and could have lead to their death or other
neighbors enjoying their afternoon in the area. Mr. Allman may have in
fact fired into my property as well. We are looking at the property plat
and fence line.
He has been in court before for trapping and killing cats and other pets
in our neighborhood. The Byron City Police were summoned by a 911 call
but before they got there Mr. Allman made threats to my son and wife
while still brandishing the firearm and then he shot our very maimed pet
as she lay there crying for my wife to help her.
The police took Mr. Allman away to the Byron Jail but I suspect he will
get out today or tomorrow.
After all of this, members of his family moved their two trucks to their
back yard and pointed them toward our fence and residence and began
revving the engines as if they were going to plow through into our home
and dog lot. Both trucks are still here this morning. All of this was
captured on video tape from security cameras including the horrible
death of our puppy and the screams of family and the puppy can be heard.
It is a sick and disturbed person that does this type of thing and I
want everyone to know who he is, where he lives and to watch out for
these people. I am over here in the Middle East protecting you and our
country. Could you at least provide an inquiry to increase awareness and
provide a sense of protection from this beast for my family and
neighbors?
I think that if he gets out there will be an escalation in violence
toward my wife and children. I can't protect my family from over here
any other way. I need your help to ensure he is prosecuted as much as
the Georgia codes will allow. (felony cruelty to animals, reckless
endangerment to residents, discharging a firearm in a residential area,
terroristic threats, use of a firearm while committing a felony.) I hope
at least one of these will stick on his record. It is so hard to do my
job when I am worried about my loved ones back home.
My wife may be reached at and I will certainly answer any questions over
email or if you provide a phone number I will call you.
I just can’t believe that staying out of harms way over here may be
easier than at my own home in Byron, Georgia.
The Byron Police Department number is: (478) 956-2880 or (478) 256-3828.
Sincerely,
Walton C. Smisson
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I wish I lived closer: I'd offer to stand watch over the family...
26 June 2007
From the "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" files...
Got this via the Squeaky Wheel. I've already forwarded it on to the BACA Nation radio show, but I think I need to vent a bit on this...
from the article:
"A PEDOPHILE who raped a 10-year-old girl will be free in just four months after a British judge said his victim had "dressed provocatively"."
Ok, I have to say I've seen some VERY mature-looking kids. I have yet to see a 10 year old that looks of age, regardless of how she was dressed...
"In the latest case, Oxford Crown Court heard harrowing details of the assault on the 10-year-old. She was attacked in a park in South Oxfordshire by Fenn and his accomplice Darren Wright, 34, on October 14 last year.
I think I've got some rusty pinking shears somewhere around here...
"Yet Judge Hall said the case was exceptional because the "young woman" had been wearing a frilly bra and thong."
Ok... Squeaky Wheel already touched on this, but I think I want to emphasize: a ten-year-old does NOT, in any way, qualify as a "young woman". The term "woman" is usually used to describe someone who has started to physically develop: I've NEVER seen a ten-year-old who qualified. "Girl", or even "Little Girl" are the appropriate terms...
Also... at NO point should how someone is dressed be a qualifier to allow sexual assault. Period. Full stop. If a human of the female persuasion feels most comfortable walking around in nothing but revealing lingerie, that does NOT excuse some low-life forcing his sexual attentions on her...
"The court heard that the girl regularly wore make-up, strappy tops and jeans."
So? Half the girls I saw out today were wearing less: does that mean they're all "asking for it"? Give my five minutes with any scum that feels so, and acts on the presumed "invitation"...
"The same judge caused uproar earlier this year by setting free another paedophile and telling him to give his victim money "to buy a nice new bicycle"."
He not only (for all intents and purposes) ignored the victim's pain, he also ENCOURAGED further contact between the victim and his abuser? And THIS is supposed to be the "Guardian of Justice" in Britain?
I can't WAIT for my brothers and sisters back in the old country to get organized. Maybe they can help stem the tide of such insanity...
from the article:
"A PEDOPHILE who raped a 10-year-old girl will be free in just four months after a British judge said his victim had "dressed provocatively"."
Ok, I have to say I've seen some VERY mature-looking kids. I have yet to see a 10 year old that looks of age, regardless of how she was dressed...
"In the latest case, Oxford Crown Court heard harrowing details of the assault on the 10-year-old. She was attacked in a park in South Oxfordshire by Fenn and his accomplice Darren Wright, 34, on October 14 last year.
Fenn removed all her clothes and raped her, then Wright took her to his home and sexually assaulted her."
So the one perv molested her, then the other took her home and continued the abuse?I think I've got some rusty pinking shears somewhere around here...
"Yet Judge Hall said the case was exceptional because the "young woman" had been wearing a frilly bra and thong."
Ok... Squeaky Wheel already touched on this, but I think I want to emphasize: a ten-year-old does NOT, in any way, qualify as a "young woman". The term "woman" is usually used to describe someone who has started to physically develop: I've NEVER seen a ten-year-old who qualified. "Girl", or even "Little Girl" are the appropriate terms...
Also... at NO point should how someone is dressed be a qualifier to allow sexual assault. Period. Full stop. If a human of the female persuasion feels most comfortable walking around in nothing but revealing lingerie, that does NOT excuse some low-life forcing his sexual attentions on her...
"The court heard that the girl regularly wore make-up, strappy tops and jeans."
So? Half the girls I saw out today were wearing less: does that mean they're all "asking for it"? Give my five minutes with any scum that feels so, and acts on the presumed "invitation"...
"It is quite clear she is a very disturbed child and a very needy child and she is a sexually precocious child. She liked to dress provocatively," the judge said.
What the HELL does "sexually precocious" mean? Was she egging them on, ASKING them to molest her? Did she BEG the one to take her to his home, so he could continue the rape?
"Did she look like she was 10? Certainly not. She looked 16.""
Ok... I'm not sure of the laws in Britain. However, it's usually considered bad for a 24 year old to have relations with a 16 year old. And beyond the pale for a 34 year old to do so. Besides, I could've sworn the legal age of consent was 18 (or do they allow greater freedom earlier in England?)...
"The same judge caused uproar earlier this year by setting free another paedophile and telling him to give his victim money "to buy a nice new bicycle"."
He not only (for all intents and purposes) ignored the victim's pain, he also ENCOURAGED further contact between the victim and his abuser? And THIS is supposed to be the "Guardian of Justice" in Britain?
I can't WAIT for my brothers and sisters back in the old country to get organized. Maybe they can help stem the tide of such insanity...
21 June 2007
In response to a comment...
Sevesteen posted a comment on my last entry. I had to respond, and I figured it would be better as a seperate entry...
From this section of the named website:
"The love that I wish to bestow upon her will start with phileo, the love which is equated with friendship, companionship and affection. As I get to know her better and appreciate her for the unique individual that she is, this love will deepen into agape, a profound respect and admiration. Our friendship and mutual respect will allow us to fully appreciate the joys of our eros, or physical love, which will, in turn, affirm and reinforce the beautiful bond we have created together."
If that isn't someone promoting sexualy relations between an adult and a minor, then I don't know what IS. That said...
I've read a little more of the site, and it DOES seem to mainly focus on staying within the law. So I'll put it this way: I won't act against any person who doesn't hurt a child. Anyone who DOES act against a child (abusing them physicall, mantally, emotionall, or sexually) is my sworn enemy. Does that work for everyone?
From this section of the named website:
"The love that I wish to bestow upon her will start with phileo, the love which is equated with friendship, companionship and affection. As I get to know her better and appreciate her for the unique individual that she is, this love will deepen into agape, a profound respect and admiration. Our friendship and mutual respect will allow us to fully appreciate the joys of our eros, or physical love, which will, in turn, affirm and reinforce the beautiful bond we have created together."
If that isn't someone promoting sexualy relations between an adult and a minor, then I don't know what IS. That said...
I've read a little more of the site, and it DOES seem to mainly focus on staying within the law. So I'll put it this way: I won't act against any person who doesn't hurt a child. Anyone who DOES act against a child (abusing them physicall, mantally, emotionall, or sexually) is my sworn enemy. Does that work for everyone?
WHISKEY. TANGO. FOXTROT?
Via Angela: the website of an admitted pedophile, who tries to justify "childlove".
Don't get me wrong here: I'm ALL about Freedom of Speech. But there are some things that just step WAY over the line. This type of thing tops that list.
Don't get me wrong here: I'm ALL about Freedom of Speech. But there are some things that just step WAY over the line. This type of thing tops that list.
I WAS pulling for Fred Thompson
Just read this over at Tam's.
She's got MY vote. Think we can get her through the primary? Just think about it: Tamara/Thompson against Hillary/Obama. Can you imagine THOSE debates?
She's got MY vote. Think we can get her through the primary? Just think about it: Tamara/Thompson against Hillary/Obama. Can you imagine THOSE debates?
19 June 2007
A good start
And via Angela, we have this. From the article:
"Operation Lobate was revealed overnight in the United Kingdom as having involved law enforcement agencies around the world, including Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy and Canada.
The AFP said the operation resulted in 63 arrests in 35 countries, with 14 people arrested over offences involving actual contact with victims.
They said 22 child victims of abuse had been rescued. "
Now, this is what I call a good start. Maybe, if folks are paying attention, we can work on stopping the destruction of our kids...
You would not believe what some of these abusers are. I've seen them: they look like everyday folks. Go to church on Sunday, donate to local charities, what have you. It's all camouflage, meant to distract you from what they really are: sick fucks who prey on children...
"Operation Lobate was revealed overnight in the United Kingdom as having involved law enforcement agencies around the world, including Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy and Canada.
The AFP said the operation resulted in 63 arrests in 35 countries, with 14 people arrested over offences involving actual contact with victims.
They said 22 child victims of abuse had been rescued. "
Now, this is what I call a good start. Maybe, if folks are paying attention, we can work on stopping the destruction of our kids...
You would not believe what some of these abusers are. I've seen them: they look like everyday folks. Go to church on Sunday, donate to local charities, what have you. It's all camouflage, meant to distract you from what they really are: sick fucks who prey on children...
Important FYI:
Just caught this from the Bitch Girls, and thought I'd add it myself...
Personally, I wouldn't knowingly do business with anyone who insisted that I remains helpless against the goblins of the world. And I think most of the two of you feel the same...
Personally, I wouldn't knowingly do business with anyone who insisted that I remains helpless against the goblins of the world. And I think most of the two of you feel the same...
Snark done right
Courtesy of Ambulance Driver, we have Cranky Epistles. This is a lady with some opinions, who is NOT afraid to let them out. Complete snarky goodness: give her a read!
17 June 2007
Since all the cool kids are doing it...
Stolen from many (but *I* was never tagged: guess they just don't like me *sniff*)
"LALOLKFATYK" Meme
"LALOLKFATYK" Meme
WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes... my father and godfather
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Mom's funeral
DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Don't know... haven't seen it since bootcamp. I print
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Hmmm... cappicola or roast beef
DO YOU HAVE KIDS? depends: do the cats and ferret count?
IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? HELL no: I'm an asshole!
DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Nah
DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Nope
WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? At one time, I would've. Now, no way in Hell.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Frosted Flakes
DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? if they have laces
DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yep. But I'll be showering tomorrow, so that should take care of it...
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Chocolate (you mean there's other kinds?)
WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? their eyes
WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Only thing I don't like about myself is I'm too modest
WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Mom
WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? I'm barefoot, and wearing a black Utilikilt
WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? I'm just finishing up some chocolate chips
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Some Eighties mix station: Martika's Toy Soldiers is currently playing
IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? something very bright and vivid, that would burn people's eyes out
FAVORITE SMELLS? My sense of smell is so atrophied from polishing for 13 years, I don't notice smells most of the time
WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My friend Bob in Chicago, trying to arrange a ride for Squeeker to the hospital (LONG story)
FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? I don't watch sports. If it's something I play (paintball, shooting), then I'll watch for pointers...
HAIR COLOR[S]? Brown. Magenta at one point
EYE COLOR? hazel
DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Used to. Gave up on 'em
FAVORITE FOOD? Rare tenderloin
SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Depends on my mood...
LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? To Wong Foo: thanks for Everything, Julie Numar
WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? a black Lady Death tank
SUMMER OR WINTER? ok: I'm in Wisconsin. Our seasons run "almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction". I prefer "road construction", 'cause riding the bike through snow sucks.
HUGS OR KISSES? Depends: where are we talking about being kissed?
FAVORITE DESSERT? see above
MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? I don't expect anybody to "respond", since I'm not tagging anyone
LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? see above
WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Take a Thief by Mercedes Lackey
WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? a cat: what else?
WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? We don't really watch TV here: too many other things to do
FAVORITE SOUND[S]? Gunfire. Stock Harley pipes. Certain sounds my wife makes
ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Iron Maiden
WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Hmmm... don't feel like digging up a map. Either Singapore or Hong Kong
DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? Several: I'm a talented guy!
WHERE WERE YOU BORN? earth
16 June 2007
Send a letter to the Marines
Via Barking Moonbat Early Warning Systems:
Seems we have an addy to email some of Unca Sam's Misguided Children over in their sandbox. Being a former sailor, this seems like a VERY good idea: words of encouragement and appreciation always make the folks overseas feel better.
In case you don't want to check the above link, the addy is RCT-6lettersfromh@gcemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Let's flood 'em with goodwill!
Seems we have an addy to email some of Unca Sam's Misguided Children over in their sandbox. Being a former sailor, this seems like a VERY good idea: words of encouragement and appreciation always make the folks overseas feel better.
In case you don't want to check the above link, the addy is RCT-6lettersfromh@gcemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil
Let's flood 'em with goodwill!
15 June 2007
Yet another quiz thingie...
Now HERE'S a surprise!
You are The Devil
Materiality. Material Force. Material temptation; sometimes obsession
The Devil is often a great card for business success; hard work and ambition.
Perhaps the most misunderstood of all the major arcana, the Devil is not really "Satan" at all, but Pan the half-goat nature god and/or Dionysius. These are gods of pleasure and abandon, of wild behavior and unbridled desires. This is a card about ambitions; it is also synonymous with temptation and addiction. On the flip side, however, the card can be a warning to someone who is too restrained, someone who never allows themselves to get passionate or messy or wild - or ambitious. This, too, is a form of enslavement. As a person, the Devil can stand for a man of money or erotic power, aggressive, controlling, or just persuasive. This is not to say a bad man, but certainly a powerful man who is hard to resist. The important thing is to remember that any chain is freely worn. In most cases, you are enslaved only because you allow it.
What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.
Stolen shamelessly from Dragonwatch.
14 June 2007
Umm... He-lloooo? Mc Fly?!?!?
The ever-weird Bedlamite sent me this lil bit, and I felt the need to post it here for y'all.
Sad part is, this guy is probably full of righteous indignation, not realizing he's part of the problem he's complaining about...
I distinctly remember the HOG rally in Manitowoc: I sat at the local tattoo shop, watching the folks go by: "middle management, middle management, upper management, middle management... oh, hey! A real biker!!!".
I've got a friend out west who's been in the "biker world" for ages. He tells me that many "old school" types are disgusted with Harley. Not because of the folks you see riding 'em nowadays, but because some of the shops act like they're so much better than you (he's even been asked to not come in to some shops, as he "ruins their reputation").
I wonder what's gonna happen when being a biker isn't the "in thing" any more?
Memorable Statements
Ya know... Some folks should understand that anything they say can and WILL be used as blog material...
So... We (Spoon, Ray and I) are getting ready to go visit Squeeker (she got out of the hospital yesterday). Spoon's in the shower, and Ray is... Uptight. I'm sitting at the table reading, when I hear the following:
"Spoon... In the interests of public safety, could you please hand me my Midol?"
Jules also got into the act the other day, telling me about a message she received from a friend. He had applied to work in a psych ward, and needed "24hours of experience". So he wanted to know if she wanted to hang out...
It took her a minute to figure out what he was suggesting...
I just can NOT make this stuff up!
So... We (Spoon, Ray and I) are getting ready to go visit Squeeker (she got out of the hospital yesterday). Spoon's in the shower, and Ray is... Uptight. I'm sitting at the table reading, when I hear the following:
"Spoon... In the interests of public safety, could you please hand me my Midol?"
Jules also got into the act the other day, telling me about a message she received from a friend. He had applied to work in a psych ward, and needed "24hours of experience". So he wanted to know if she wanted to hang out...
It took her a minute to figure out what he was suggesting...
I just can NOT make this stuff up!
13 June 2007
"How I damaged my shoulder"
Or "Strings is a clutzy idiot, who should keep wheels from between his feet and the ground"...
Several years back, I used to hang out at the local comic shop. One of my friends there and I were rabid roller-bladers: five miles a day during the week, and several circuits of the city on weekends. We raced each-other in what can only be termed "suicide courses": down steep, grassy hills. Through traffic. Over and around every possible obstacle we could find. Rules were simple: the clock didn't stop until you a) reached the finish, or b) died...
One day, we started getting nostalgic, and recalled the fun we used to have playing lazer tag. And Jeff remembered where his gear was stored. He ran home, while i ran to the store for batteries.
Now, we weren't really expecting anything spectacular. We figured (at best) to have some fun with the kids. Unfortunately, the kids were sharp: they wanted us handicapped (because we were experienced players). The lines were drawn: Jeff and I vs roughly 10 lil' kids. The kids allowed us one aid in our handicap...
Wondering why I suddenly started talking about lazer tag? They tie together: the kids said we could play while on our blades. I think the kids were smarter than we were...
Game went fairly well at first: Jeff or I would swoop in faster than the kids could run, and hit 'em a bunch of times. A good number of the kids were out, when I made what was THE bone-headed manuver of the game: while coasting along, I twisted to shoot at one kid who was behind me...
There was no reason for me to do this: the old tag sets did NOT have sensors on the backs, so junior wasn't a threat. Jeff was coming from the same direction I was heading, and would undoubtedly take the boy out. But I let myself get too competitive...
As my pistol lined up (I DID hit my target), my body suddenly got conflicting orders. My lower body got the memo "keep going", but my upper body decided that it didn't want to move anymore. One of the observers described it as looking like I had run into a chest-high bar: my legs just suddenly swung up, and I fell straight down... :(
I spent the next couple weeks in a sling (still 'blading, mind you). And now, every once-in-awhile, my shoulder goes wiggy. In my defense, the injury was worse than it could've been: I was too busy saving the gun to save myself.
For now, we won't talk about the other 'blading injuries I've sustained over the years (at some point, we may discuss Spoon's try-out for the Brickcapades)...
Several years back, I used to hang out at the local comic shop. One of my friends there and I were rabid roller-bladers: five miles a day during the week, and several circuits of the city on weekends. We raced each-other in what can only be termed "suicide courses": down steep, grassy hills. Through traffic. Over and around every possible obstacle we could find. Rules were simple: the clock didn't stop until you a) reached the finish, or b) died...
One day, we started getting nostalgic, and recalled the fun we used to have playing lazer tag. And Jeff remembered where his gear was stored. He ran home, while i ran to the store for batteries.
Now, we weren't really expecting anything spectacular. We figured (at best) to have some fun with the kids. Unfortunately, the kids were sharp: they wanted us handicapped (because we were experienced players). The lines were drawn: Jeff and I vs roughly 10 lil' kids. The kids allowed us one aid in our handicap...
Wondering why I suddenly started talking about lazer tag? They tie together: the kids said we could play while on our blades. I think the kids were smarter than we were...
Game went fairly well at first: Jeff or I would swoop in faster than the kids could run, and hit 'em a bunch of times. A good number of the kids were out, when I made what was THE bone-headed manuver of the game: while coasting along, I twisted to shoot at one kid who was behind me...
There was no reason for me to do this: the old tag sets did NOT have sensors on the backs, so junior wasn't a threat. Jeff was coming from the same direction I was heading, and would undoubtedly take the boy out. But I let myself get too competitive...
As my pistol lined up (I DID hit my target), my body suddenly got conflicting orders. My lower body got the memo "keep going", but my upper body decided that it didn't want to move anymore. One of the observers described it as looking like I had run into a chest-high bar: my legs just suddenly swung up, and I fell straight down... :(
I spent the next couple weeks in a sling (still 'blading, mind you). And now, every once-in-awhile, my shoulder goes wiggy. In my defense, the injury was worse than it could've been: I was too busy saving the gun to save myself.
For now, we won't talk about the other 'blading injuries I've sustained over the years (at some point, we may discuss Spoon's try-out for the Brickcapades)...
Checking Sitemeter for ego stroking
... and I notice that I've had a visit from Egypt.
Now, I have NO idea why someone in Egypt might find what I write interesting. How-some-ever, if that worthy sould would speak up, I'll answer any question he (or she) may have, JUST because I think Egypt rocks...
I also noticed that I'm slowly approaching 1500 visitors (sad, I know). Whoever hits the 2K mark, let me know what you'ld like written about (that's your no-prize)...
Now, I have NO idea why someone in Egypt might find what I write interesting. How-some-ever, if that worthy sould would speak up, I'll answer any question he (or she) may have, JUST because I think Egypt rocks...
I also noticed that I'm slowly approaching 1500 visitors (sad, I know). Whoever hits the 2K mark, let me know what you'ld like written about (that's your no-prize)...
12 June 2007
Heh... I've corrupted my roommate...
Well now... my roomie just started her own blog (and she's blaming me for it). I know there are one or two who read this: swing on over and give her a read...
10 June 2007
Not sure how I missed it...
But AD posted something yesterday that is incredibly touching. Go read it here.
Things like this post (along with Mr Fixit's post from a few days ago) give me just a touch of hope when I'm dealing with a child that's been abused by those supposed to protect them. Thanks guys, cause there are times I NEED that hope to keep going!
Things like this post (along with Mr Fixit's post from a few days ago) give me just a touch of hope when I'm dealing with a child that's been abused by those supposed to protect them. Thanks guys, cause there are times I NEED that hope to keep going!
Yet another blog worth reading...
well now! It appears that one of the well known (and, at least by me, respected) moderators on the High Road has opened a blog. I'd like to introduce y'all to Don Gwinn. If you're reading me, you'll enjoy Don...
Da Girls
Occurs to me that, in the "facts about me" meme, I left out one little tidbit about my "faire wife", Squeeker: she was in a house fire at 15, and has had a trach tube pretty much since. Well, Friday she had her preliminary surgery to have it removed: the reconstruction of her trachea itself. She's doing fine (although she isn't supposed to talk, which is driving her nuts: Spoon threatened to use a ball gag on her if she doesn't keep quiet). Assuming everything goes well, in 6 months or so she'll have the trach removed and sealed up.
In somewhat more minor news, Spoon got a treat today: some guy let her take his trike for a spin. Now, she has wanted a trike for longer than I've known her, but never even got a ride on one. Saw this one at a local watering hole, stopped in to ask about it, and the guy took her out, letting her drive for about 4 blocks. I haven't seen a grin like this on her since she got to shoot full-auto. 'Course, now I have to find her a trike...
In somewhat more minor news, Spoon got a treat today: some guy let her take his trike for a spin. Now, she has wanted a trike for longer than I've known her, but never even got a ride on one. Saw this one at a local watering hole, stopped in to ask about it, and the guy took her out, letting her drive for about 4 blocks. I haven't seen a grin like this on her since she got to shoot full-auto. 'Course, now I have to find her a trike...
09 June 2007
Cool! more linky love!
Just got another person adding me to their blogroll: the Squeaky Wheel Seeks Grease.
Cool! Thanks for thinking I write well enough to suggest me to other people! Always nice to be added to another person's links (makes me feel like I might have some clue what I'm doing here)...
Check her out here, or via my daily reads (yep: I check her every day). Good snark!
Cool! Thanks for thinking I write well enough to suggest me to other people! Always nice to be added to another person's links (makes me feel like I might have some clue what I'm doing here)...
Check her out here, or via my daily reads (yep: I check her every day). Good snark!
San Francisco' love afair with the military
Caught this on APS:
Now, I never got to be there for Fleet Week. Heck, we only stopped in San Fran once while I was in, and that was only a couple days. However, the City by the Bay has REALLY outdone themselves this time...
Why is it, they simply can NOT leave well-enough alone? Fleet week brings in millions of dollars to the community, doesn't really cause much disruption, and gives some disadvantaged kids the chance to really think about a career that can get them out of the cesspool of their lives. Yet the anti-war crowd seems to want to stop it entirely...
The suggestion has been made that maybe, we should pull any military presence out of such cities, and let them stand on their own when disaster strikes: can you imagine the problems that would arise should another decent earthquake hit, and suddenly there's no National Guard to help the good citizens of San Fran? "Gee... we're sorry you're having these troubles. But you made it fairly clear y'all wanted nothign to do with the military, and we respect your wishes. So we really can't send troops in to help you clean things up..."
Can you imagine the hue and cry that would result? Think maybe some would realize the error of their ways?
SAN FRANCISCO - The annual aerial show by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels — a San Francisco tradition dating back to 1981 that pumps millions into the local economy — is running into opposition from three local peace advocacy groups that are calling for a permanent halt to the popular Fleet Week flyover.(read the rest here)
Now, I never got to be there for Fleet Week. Heck, we only stopped in San Fran once while I was in, and that was only a couple days. However, the City by the Bay has REALLY outdone themselves this time...
Why is it, they simply can NOT leave well-enough alone? Fleet week brings in millions of dollars to the community, doesn't really cause much disruption, and gives some disadvantaged kids the chance to really think about a career that can get them out of the cesspool of their lives. Yet the anti-war crowd seems to want to stop it entirely...
The suggestion has been made that maybe, we should pull any military presence out of such cities, and let them stand on their own when disaster strikes: can you imagine the problems that would arise should another decent earthquake hit, and suddenly there's no National Guard to help the good citizens of San Fran? "Gee... we're sorry you're having these troubles. But you made it fairly clear y'all wanted nothign to do with the military, and we respect your wishes. So we really can't send troops in to help you clean things up..."
Can you imagine the hue and cry that would result? Think maybe some would realize the error of their ways?
08 June 2007
I'd like to die in my sleep...
Via Mr Fixit:
Hmmm... oddly, this really doesn't shock me...
Death through freak supernatural incident You are going to die in a freak vampire/werewolf incident. I would start carrying garlic and silver bullets if I were you. There is something weird about your demeanor, and evil is attracted to you. Plus you may be a little attracted to evil too. Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com |
Hmmm... oddly, this really doesn't shock me...
Linky love
Well... got a message from DW at Dragonwatch, asking if it would be ok to link to me. Hmmm... have to think about that for a
YEP! No prob, brother!
And, of course, had to reciprocate the love there...
Now, I'm gonna go curl in a corner and cry: I can't raise my right arm above shoulder level without feeling like someone is driving an icepick into it. Someday, I'll have to explain where that injury came from...
YEP! No prob, brother!
And, of course, had to reciprocate the love there...
Now, I'm gonna go curl in a corner and cry: I can't raise my right arm above shoulder level without feeling like someone is driving an icepick into it. Someday, I'll have to explain where that injury came from...
And another prediction of the future...
Stolen from Ambulance Driver:
Which is funny, 'cause I used to have recurring nightmares of being buried alive...
 Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com |
Which is funny, 'cause I used to have recurring nightmares of being buried alive...
07 June 2007
06 June 2007
From yesterday
In going through my daily reads yesterday, I came across something that sparked me a bit: a post concerning motorcycle safety. And I thought to myself "self, that would make a really good topic!"...
First off, the helmet law.
Now, I'll admit: I do not usually wear a helmet. I know that it almost guarantees death should the 'Potomus dump me on the I, but it's my choice to make. I've heard all the arguments (visibility, hearing, etc), but what it boils down to is a person's right to decide what risks they're willing to take, and how they wish to manage those risks. Honestly, I'm an idiot for not wearing the helmet: I KNOW that it could mean the difference between functionality and veggiehood in a serious accident. But I choose to go with the convenience of just hopping on my scoot and riding along (and I truly think that any adult should have the same choice).
Secondly, rider/driver attitudes.
The post that sparked me on this mentioned some younger guy on a crotch rocket, who said "I'm a very conservative rider, I'll never lay it down!", or words to that effect. Wow... I'd like to know what color the sky is in his world! When you're on two wheels, the ONLY way to deal with the cages surrounding you is to assume they (and whoever built the slab you're on) actively desire your demise. And the more gruesome said demise, the better.
I've ridden out a skid, traveling sideways down the road, because a dump truck decided to turn in front of me. I've watched friends do all manner of acrobatics to avoid Suzie Soccarmom when she pulls out in her new grocery getter- then listened to her wail about how that bike "almost hit her new car!!!". I've had one asshat (this was my first week as a rider) decide that my passing him (he was doing 40 in a 55) was an intolerable insult, and ride roughly 6 inches off my rear tire at 60+. And on and on...
If you ride, remember: you look EXACTLY like the guy the cager next to you caught his wife in bed with last night. His car will take out your Uberhog with barely a ding, and nobody will see a thing...
Last off: for the cagers.
PLEASE, remember that with better weather, the scoots will be out. Try to remember that, and maybe drive just a bit more carefully. And, if you see that dirty bro, broken down beside the road, ask if you can help: he'll remember...
First off, the helmet law.
Now, I'll admit: I do not usually wear a helmet. I know that it almost guarantees death should the 'Potomus dump me on the I, but it's my choice to make. I've heard all the arguments (visibility, hearing, etc), but what it boils down to is a person's right to decide what risks they're willing to take, and how they wish to manage those risks. Honestly, I'm an idiot for not wearing the helmet: I KNOW that it could mean the difference between functionality and veggiehood in a serious accident. But I choose to go with the convenience of just hopping on my scoot and riding along (and I truly think that any adult should have the same choice).
Secondly, rider/driver attitudes.
The post that sparked me on this mentioned some younger guy on a crotch rocket, who said "I'm a very conservative rider, I'll never lay it down!", or words to that effect. Wow... I'd like to know what color the sky is in his world! When you're on two wheels, the ONLY way to deal with the cages surrounding you is to assume they (and whoever built the slab you're on) actively desire your demise. And the more gruesome said demise, the better.
I've ridden out a skid, traveling sideways down the road, because a dump truck decided to turn in front of me. I've watched friends do all manner of acrobatics to avoid Suzie Soccarmom when she pulls out in her new grocery getter- then listened to her wail about how that bike "almost hit her new car!!!". I've had one asshat (this was my first week as a rider) decide that my passing him (he was doing 40 in a 55) was an intolerable insult, and ride roughly 6 inches off my rear tire at 60+. And on and on...
If you ride, remember: you look EXACTLY like the guy the cager next to you caught his wife in bed with last night. His car will take out your Uberhog with barely a ding, and nobody will see a thing...
Last off: for the cagers.
PLEASE, remember that with better weather, the scoots will be out. Try to remember that, and maybe drive just a bit more carefully. And, if you see that dirty bro, broken down beside the road, ask if you can help: he'll remember...
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