Restaurant Review: Pizza Inn

I grew up in a moderately sized town in Texas, so I don't claim an early diverse cultural and varietal experience with pizza. Since leaving my hometown, however, I've had the pleasure of tasting pizzas in all of the major metropolitan and some rural areas, from D.C. to L.A.

And sometimes I just long for the pizza I first tasted. That's when I order delivery from Pizza Inn.

First, I can't say enough good things about the folks who answer the phone. I order from the restaurant on 18th Street. The phone staff is always friendly, efficient, thorough, and accurate. I can't emphasize that enough, because it's so rare these days!

Second, I like that they know what I ordered previously. They always ask, "would you like the usual or would you like to try something else tonight?". I'm mostly a creature of habit, but they always come back with my special requests regarding "the usual". I like that, because sometimes I forget!

The delivery staff, too, are equally as nice and efficient. My food is always delivered timely and is hot, done and packaged properly. And there are always sufficient condiments enclosed.

"The Usual":

Double pepperoni & onion on thin crust, light on the cheese. Double pepperoni means that the pepperoni slices touch each other across the pizza. Onion is adequate and cheese is light. If I laid out the ingredients myself, the pizza wouldn't be any better!

Other good things:

Canadian bacon, pepperoni & onion pizza. As with every pizza I've ever ordered, the pie is loaded.

10 hot wings with blue cheese. The wings are always done and mildly crispy on the outside. I prefer them a shade more done, but as pizza places go, these are the MOST done! Also, they're not very "hot". I would pefer them to be more so, but I often overlook their spicy heat, for their crispiness.

Today's Thoughts on the Natalee Holloway Investigation

1. I still believe what I've always believed, though my hope for resolution has waned considerably.
2. A lot of folks got their shorts in a wad over the details and inconsistencies in Joran's 'beach story'. Please! There was no walk along the beach that night.
3. Dompig's statements regarding the drug angle are either (1) playing the old, "I can't solvethe case so I'll blame the victim" game, (2) setting up a "final scene" for a television show, (3) conjecture from the accused, or (4) generalizations based on the average teenager, (5) a theory picked up off some blog or forum, or (6) just a lot of mindless crap.
4. ALE: (pick one) A. conspirators, B. incompetent, C. impotent, D. all of the above.
5. And just when you select your answer to #3, they seize Deepak's car for use in a television re-enactment.
6. Like Dompig, I only have hunches, intuition and gut feelings. Like Dompig, I don't claim to know for sure.
7. Unlike Dompig, I'm not privy to the undisclosed details, nor do I or my family have a personal stake in the matter.
8. Up for some interesting reading? Check out Aruba Dirty Police!

Random Memo: What I've Been Doing in the Past Week

1. Working on work. I've been really busy at work (something I like), so I've been producing like crazy. I find that most days pass really quickly, and I'm "pushing a lot out the door".
2. We're short-handed at work, so I'm putting in a little overtime to help the firm keep up with deadlines. I like feeling like I'm helping with billables and schedules, and the extra cash in my pocket really makes me smile!
3. Working on few little moonlight projects. Moonlight work is comprised of small scale residential projects that aren't large enough or profitable enough to bring into the firm. I've measured a house, solved a few problems, corrected a mistake and played phone tag with a new client.
4. Chatted on the phone and watched American Idol with my oldest and dearest friend.
5. Celebrated a close friend's birthday in a BIG way... made her one of my (inspired) paper boxes, had dinner at Juanita's with her (and her husband and sister), and partied until after the cows came home (I'm sure they beat us) Saturday night. More on that and "the band" that played... later.
6. Visited Howard Hughes' Grave and other notable graves (like Gene Tierney's) in Glenwood Cemetery.
7. Ate pizza for five meals.... four times Star Pizza, and a fifth at a free Double Dave's buffet (a friend and co-worker had his business card drawn from the bowl).
8. Snacked on a tasty chocolate eclair that my good (birthday) friend brought me.
9. Cleaned house a little, and the kitchen and bathroom a lot, and washed clothes.
10. Returned more phone calls than I can count on one hand.
11. Spoiled Miss C rotten. Played and played and played. Sang and sang and sang. She's even had a tongue swipe of custard each time I've snacked on the chocolate eclair.
12. Blogged a few wine reviews. Please note that I didn't drink them all in the past week! I've just had time to blog them in the past week!!!
13. Hidden and searched for Jonah! (Update on his whereabouts later!)

Kumkani Sauvignon Blanc 2005

I liked but didn't love the Kumkani Sauvignon Blanc. I liked the fruity flavors of this wine, but found that it had somewhat of a grassy or herbal flavor that I didn't enjoy as well. (After reading the winemaker's comments, it may be the oak barrel that I'm also tasting). I also found it a little short on the level of acidity or tartness that I prefer. It has a twist-top cap, which bodes well for me in terms of flavor. (I swear... I can always smell and taste the mildew of the cork, and my allergies ).

Spec's price: $10.60.

My summation: I would definitely drink Kumkani again. I won't drive to the store to seek it out, but it is placed in my list of very drinkable (and enjoyable) wines.

Here's what the winemakers have to say (after all, this is about education!):

A very full bodied wine that contains an abundance of fruit flavours and a
spanking acidity. Pineapple, passionfruit and melon like flavours are all
present, in addition to a hint of Marlborough herbaceousness. A very lively and
approachable wine.

Viticultural practices: The vineyard location (10km from the Atlantic Ocean) seems tailor made for flavourful Sauvignon Blanc. The soil is a well-drained sandy loam with weathered granite. The fruit grows in the Helderberg Hills; this coastal area yields wines with an intensity of flavour and crispness not found in some of the more inland regions. The resulting wines lean in the direction of gooseberry, grassy/herbaceous styles rather than the pear, melon and tropical fruit.Sunny but cool and dry weather were experienced during the final ripening stage and the grapes were harvested at 23°B in end February. The vines are trained on a 5-wire hedge system, approximately 15 years old planted on a weathered planted granite type soil. The vines are grafted on
01-14 Mgt which delivered a moderate vigorous growth with a moderate but well aerated canopy. The vineyards were on a high slope facing False Bay (Atlantic Ocean). The interaction of vine, site, soil, marine climate and cultivation (terroir) yields complex fruit of outstanding quality. Yields per acre: 8 t/haNumber of cases per item produced: 4 500Appellation: StellenboschFiltration & fining: Bentomite (protein) PVPP (anti ---) S70 sheet filtrationVarietal composition: 97% Sauvignon Blanc / 3% ViognierWood treatment: Viognier (3%) was barrel fermented in 2nd fill. D&J 300LFrench oakWinemaker's notes: Same vineyard(night) harvested 5 times over 12 days to make more complex wine.

And comments from the more knowledgable folks (than me, certainly) at Southern Wines:

5/24/05 The 2004 Kumkani Sauvignon Blanc is all about value. It’s a straight forward, fruit driven style, medium bodied, supple textured with whiffs of cut grass, a touch of herb and notes of musk melon, grapefruit and a tropical fruit, pineapple richness aromatically. This has a nice fleshy mouth feel but it’s not racy or tangy in the classical sense of many New World versions, but still possesses good fruit intensity and acidity that keeps the citrus and melon flavors clean and focused. Drink this over the next year while the fruit still maintains its vibrant edge.

Finca El Portillo Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Another fine Sauvignon Blanc, El Portillo is a product of Argentina.

I found it to be crisp, clean and dry, but less robust (tartness, acidity) than Dashwood (or Pepi). It has the hint and aroma of grapefruit that I like so much. It has a rubberized cork and I didn't detect any woodsy sort of flavors or aromas.

Spec's price: $7.99.

My summation: I will definitely drink El Portillo again. I probably wouldn't drive to the store seeking it out, but it had a really nice, clean taste that I enjoyed. And you can't beat the price for a wine with such good flavor!

I also dig the quote on the bottle:

"Finca El Portillo Sauvignon Blanc is inspired by the color of chanar. A spicy tree that loses its bark over time, chanar is known for its lustrous green trunk. This color of the Andes symbolizes our belief in winemaking with respect for nature."

Three Ruses

Aruba follows up on another ruse, but to their credit, they followed up.

Randy Quaid follows up on what he considers a big old ruse.

I'm not sure where the ruse lies in the story of the Church of Christ preacher's wife who shot her husband dead... but if it's not on the one hand... it's the other.

Empathy and Joran

From the moment I became aware of Natalee Holloway's disappearance, my empathetic tendencies have worked overtime.

First, I empathisized immensely with Natalee. I had a similar upbringing. And I experienced a memorable and life-altering high school graduation trip by throwing caution to the wind, and taking a giant leap of faith. Fortunately for me, mine was a slow death over time, rather than consequences that were immediately apparent.

Second, I began to empathisize with Joran. My immediate reaction was to feel sorry for him. After all, he had stated that he dropped Natalee off at the hotel. It seemed innocent, enough, and highly understandable.

I'm unable to put myself in Joran's shoes, because I'm a girl... but I grew up with an older brother that I adored. So, I began to imagine that Joran was my brother, and I began to empathize with his family.

And that's when it all fell apart for me.

If Joran (presuming his or my parents' belief in his innocence) was my brother, his ass would have been out on the beach, in the sand dunes, scouring the streets, the casinos, the clubs... desparately looking for Natalee. He would have no time for anything else. He would have been following any lead. He would have centered his life around helping Natalee's parents, not scoffing, not lying, not serving time in KIA over some assinine, irrelevant lie. MY parents would have had MY brother doing the detective work that the local police weren't staffed or equipped to do.

MY brother would have NO LIFE... NO sleep, let alone rest of any kind, until Natalee was found.

MY brother, and MY family would have joined Natalee's family. We would be as one. We would have dedicated ourselves to finding Natalee. And not one of us would have rested until the goal was reached.

Therin lies the incrimination of Paulus, and possibly Anna. Why are they not helping the search? Why have they not employed Joran and their younger son in the search? Why has the entire family NOT joined the search?

Detractors, say what you want about the morality of Americans. Let's say Americans are the least moral among us, how do you explain the family's reaction(?)... then... and now?

Morality is not, in and of itself, a crime. But I believe it speaks volumes about the truth and likely circumstances. After all, there are only TWO reasons not to commit yourself to a search.

1. The search is pointless (She is dead, and all the searching isn't going to matter) .
2. She is dead. Her body is hidden, possibly re-hidden. And it is imperative that it not be found.

So for me, it's so much MORE than what Joran DID AND SAID that wreaks of guilt (name ANY 17 year old that had rather spend 60+ days in jail to protect a girlfriend or to stand by an initial lie), but also, what he DIDN'T DO. That part incriminates not just Joran... but his entire family.

Now You Have a Theory

Suddenly Dompig has a theory about what happened to Natalee Holloway. I guess let's see what he has to say. Theories are about ten cents a dozen at this point.

No Relationship Between Science and Scientology

When South Park has a firmer grip on reality than the Hollywood establishment... ummmm, that's a problem.

And when you consider the tragic effect of their teachings on the vulnerable, it's criminal.

Condi and the NFL

The NFL might have lured me back, but no...

Seeking Architect for Bachelor 9

Casting producers for ABC’s The Bachelor 9 “are interested in finding an architect” for next season's show. Well, now... this should be interesting!

I'm lifting the following quotes from an email I received today (from an architect pal) with an article written by SARI BOTTON. I made a brief attempt to find the article online but was unsuccessful. Though the truth stings just a little, it's also kinda funny!:

Casting agents for the show have been approaching architectural firms across the country "searching for a 27- to 33-year-old single, handsome, successful, charismatic guy who would like to be whisked away to an exotic, tropical location dating 25 beautiful girls.

"But with a pool of architects - notoriously cheap, arrogant and generally terrible dates, if not altogether gay - as bait, will gals actually bite? It's a move that gives even some architects a good laugh.

On the Gutter, a Web site and online message board for architects, the "Bachelor" posting has elicited these cracks:

"Most bachelor architects would be on 'Brokeback Bachelor,'" a reference to the many gay men in the field.

"I can't wait for the episode where his date spends the whole night in his studio, while he finishes hot-gluing a chip-board model," because architects are known to put in long hours agonizing over minute details.

"After gluing the model all night, wait till she has to pay for dinner." After years of expensive graduate programs, few architects are known for making big bucks, or being particularly generous with what they do make. Some New York women'sromantic experiences with architects only bolster such stereotypes. "I went on a couple of dates with an architect I met online," recalls Eve*, a 36-year-old social worker from Brooklyn. "He was gay and either didn't know it, or didn't want to be. He was so effeminate, I was shocked that he didn't know how gay he was."

Janice*, 42, a writer in the Flatiron District, had a similar experience. "I dated an architect who turned out to be gay, in the full belief that he wasstraight. "I was so infatuated with the guy, I didn't pick up on anything. It turned out he had a boyfriend. Dating me was sort of a novelty for him."

But single, straight architect Eric Clough, a partner in 212 Box, a Tribeca-based architectural firm, warns not to judge a book by its cover. "Some people may get the wrong idea, because a lot of male architects are metrosexuals, not gay," he says. "I don't know what the stats are in the profession. I do know a lot of gay designers, but I know a lot of straight ones, too." Clough at least admits to being very unavailable because of his work. "It's not easy to date, though I do meet a lot of women — mostly married," he says. "I have a tendency to have a lot of crushes on my clients, because you go straight into a sort of intimate relationship with them. But it's true that architecture as a profession does take a lot of time out of your personal life, especially when you have your own business."

That's the reason Sophie*, a 27-year-old medical researcher on the upper West Side, avoids dating architects after working at a big Manhattan firm. "If you were to date an architect, you probably wouldn't ever see him in daylight," she says. "On an average day I worked 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and everyone's relationships seemed to be suffering. On days just before major deadlines, it wasn't uncommon for them to work through the night, or even two or three nights straight. Some of the architects at the firm had memberships at the 24-hour gym nearby, so they'd have a place to shower when they worked straight through. "One guy resorted to taking dinner breaks to see his girlfriend," Sophie recalls. "He'd work until 7 p.m. or so, leave for an hour to meet her for dinner, and then come back to work for another several hours before he went home."

Sarah*, herself a landscape architect, 38, of the upper West Head, had a different complaint about the two architects she dated: arrogance. "The first one I dated when I went to Cornell," she says with a cringe. "That one took himself very seriously. Everything he saw was fodder for sketching in this little notebook he carried around -like, 'Oh, wait, look at that cardboard box over there.' He had very stuck-up opinions about what was art and what wasn't, what books I should and shouldn't have." Though the experience wasn't enough to scare her off architects for good, a second one sure was. "He also had that reading-list recommendation thing - all the weighty tomes of architecture," she recalls. And he wasn't terribly romantic. "On our first date, we went to a construction site and took pictures of pipes. And he was really cheap. When I went to see him after being away for a few weeks, he made me dinner: a peanut butter and jelly sandwich."

None of this comes as a surprise to Wendy Straker, author of "Men at Work: A Job-by-Job Search for Mr. Right" (Polkadot Press). "Architects are a great balance between the artist and the suit," she says. "They're visionaries who know how to plan. But the risk of dating an architect is that they're extremely set in their ways. They think they know what's best for you and that includes everything from which direction your couch should face to where you should hang that new painting."

Still, despite all these downsides, there's an undeniable sexiness to the field that reels women in. Think of Gary Cooper as Harold Roark in Ayn Rand's "The Fountainhead," an idealistic architect who refuses to compromise his principles and thus sweeps Patricia Neal's married Dominique Francon off her feet.

Then there's Seinfeld's George Costanza, who lied about being an architect to impress women, as does Matt Dillon's character in the Farrelly brothers' comedy "There's Something About Mary."

"We've had a lot of responses from really good-looking, charismatic, sexy guys in that field," reports Robyn Cass, casting director for "The Bachelor." She said the show is considering men in a few other fields as well. "We think an architect would be amazing on the show. It just seems like a really interesting profession. Regardless of profession, though, we're just going to pick the best bachelor in the country."

Straker's not sure an architect would be the best choice. "Architects tend to be introverted thinkers who would rather stay home to look at floor plans and elevations than wine and dine you at the latest hot spot," she says.

If ABC goes with an architect, Straker says, "It will be interesting to see how this guy captivates a roomful of women. He might just be in over his head."

The very busy, and so very unavailable, Clough argues otherwise. "I definitely feel that
architects make good boyfriends and husbands," he attests. "We're esthetically aware and gifted. And we're especially good with our hands."

* Names have been changed at the subjects' request.

The Bachelor Paris: Travis Stork, Single Again

I knew it.

Just one week after the show aired, Travis Stork and Sarah Stone admit they've split up.

My theory, well developed by the last episode of the series, was that Travis just wanted to put the whole thing behind him. And when he selected Sarah, he kept saying, "I'm just so happy". Those words confirmed it for me. We don't even have to bring up the fact that he gave her that ring on a chain! Please!

By contractual agreement, the couple was required to remain apart until after the show's final episode aired. And Travis cited that as the reason that they grew apart, although I don't think they were ever "together".

"You're in Paris and you're part of this incredible experience, this fantasy world, and then suddenly you come back to Nashville, and living in the same city I think we thought was going to be a great thing, but instead, you're forced to pretend you don't know someone, for essentially the last four months," the 33-year-old Vanderbilt Medical Center emergency room doctor continued. "The reality is that we were in this fantasy world. And now that we're back in Nashville, over time when you're not allowed to see someone, you grow apart."

My life is so rich.

March 16: My Mom's Birthday

Today is my Mom's birthday.

If I had the honor, the privilege and the good fortune to still have her healthy and here with me on earth, she would be 77 today. And we would be celebrating large:

1. She would wake (at a reasonable hour... please!) with a telephone call from me!
2. The day would have been kicked off with a koffee klatsch, surrounded by her good friends.
3. Mid-day would be celebrated with a light lunch and a fun bridge game.
4. She would have late afternoon to watch Oprah and unwind a little.
5. Dinner would be my treat. We would go anywhere her heart chose, but it would likely be a place that served shrimp, in some fashion. (At her heaviest, Mom weighed 114 pounds. And she once ate a 99 piece shrimp combination dinner, all by herself!). I would probably have to insist that we go someplace "better" than Luby's, however. (Mom LOVED Luby's).
6. I would tease and we would laugh.
7. My gifts to her: books (histories, biographies), crossword puzzles, a warm gown, a designer label four-piece suit, at least 2 pairs of Ferragamo shoes (one pair would never do!), everyday skirts, pants and blouses, and gift certificates for manicure/pedicures (something she deemed luxuries).
8. Her cake: something I baked (vanilla or lemony), looking questionable but quite tasty and probably having a Snoopy figure and seven and seven candles on top.
9. Her wish: There is no doubt in my mind what it would be. We are similar in that regard (our priorities, our wishes).
10. She would be happy to spend the night or maybe even the weekend with me, but she would just as eagerly want to return home.

On Topic: Michael Jackson's Extension

While Michael Jackson is parading and shooping around Bahrain in Islamic drag, Neverland employees go unpaid one more day.

As The Stomach Turns

Child pornography runs rampant. We don't want to think about it. It's vile, awful and horrendous. But there is a world out there, to which, we must become aware, in order to destroy it.

If Only There Was a Fate Worse

If only scum reaped what it sowed.

The jury rendered the fate of death to Joseph Smith for the (taped) abduction and murder of 11 year old, Carlie Brucia.

In Spite of the DNA/ Blood Evidence

Darryl Littlejohn is innocent of the rape, strangulation and suffocation of Imette St. Guillen. Sure he is.

And I own a ski lodge in Brownsville, Texas that I would like to sell.

And Just For Fun: Laguna Beach

I happened on a really cool blog a few weeks ago. I've visited a few times since and the site is regularly updated.

If the Laguna Beach cast swept you up too, you gotta keep current with "The Laguna Beach Hook Up".

The Power of Gay Americans

In spite of all manner of second class citizenship, legal discrimination and commone fear and hatred, Fred Phelps holds Gay Amercians responsible for the war.

Yeah, right. Give me a break.

1. Slept late. (8:15am IS late when your alarm is set for 4:50am weekdays).
2. Got up to let Miss C do her thing.
3. Went back to bed and loved on Miss C.
4. Talked to my friend. Cancelled our plans for the day.
5. Bleached the kitchen countertops.
6. Ate a piece of Star Pizza for lunch.
7. Talked to my friend again for about an hour.
8. Caught up with The Real World and Flava Flave. (did I just admit that???).
9. Watched a Celebrity Texas Hold-Em re-run (with Brad Garrett).
10. Washed two loads of clothes.
11. Laid down to take a nap, and at the pinacle of my slumbering ecstasy, some random @sshole rang my doorbell. Miss C came unglued and my thoughts of afternoon slumber were terminated.
12. Worked a little.
13. Read RWV and SM.
14. Browsed a few random blogs.
15. The bill for my home warranty came in today, you know... the same day I discovered that the flex connector at the water heater is leaking again... and that pi$$ed me off. (I pay for the warranty + $50 a year for someone to come out and fix that very same thing).
16. Speaking of sucking, vacuumed the house with my nifty Dyson.
17. Baked (burnt) oatmeal cookies.
18. Began altering my blog template (after many days research on colors, etc.).
19. Became overwhelmed and returned to status quo.
20. Questioned why I'm so damn tired.
21. Decided to eat a cookie and think about it again tomorrow.

Two Minutes

Anyone who has ever questioned the difference two minutes can make in ordinary life...

has never baked cookies in a gas oven.

Saturday Plans: I Miss My Friend!

Sometimes, there's nothing better than a Saturday without plans. That's especially true after a social weekend like last one (fun, fun, fun) and a work week like this one.

Truth is, I had plans for today, but they were altered early this morning. I had planned to spend a low key day eating lunch with a friend. Afterwards, we were going to casually shop for nothing (casual yet dangerous territory for both of us) or go see a movie.

In reality, the week was hard on both of us. We are both feeling totally wiped out... work, allergies and burning our candles at both ends. We discussed it last night and decided to make the call Saturday morning. And this morning, we agreed that we just couldn't do it.

If she didn't live a good 45 minutes away, our plans stood a good chance. Neither of us, however, could commit to the drive, particularly given Houston traffic and construction. Various and lengthy sections of freeways are closed this weekend, and although they weren't the sections between us, alternate routes are always affected... big time.

So, we talked on the phone for about an hour. We commisserated. We sighed. And then we set off about our individual and lazy days. I miss her. I don't see her often enough. We just need to live closer!

Five Things that Make My Day Worthwhile

1. My Comet. Just everything about her.
2. A friend saying "I love you".
3. Completing a difficult and dreaded task.
4. My peaceful home.
5. A cool breeze, a setting sun and the sounds of doves cooing.

Five Things That Suck as Much as My Dyson

1. Not having enough time.
2. The view from the bottom of a deep rut.
3. Fatal errors. Software Lock-ups. And other Computer glitches.
4. Double standards.
5. Traffic. Coming and Going. Always traffic.

Chloe Dao: Bringing it Home to Houston

Ok, I'm a little reluctant to admit it: I watch 'Project Runway'. THERE. I said it.

I think I watch it because it reminds me of my many days in the College of Architecture: camaradery, competition, interesting challenges, impossible deadlines, last minute detailing and brutal juries.

There is more pressure ($100,000) on the PR participants, for sure, but their juries are a lovefest compared to those in a College or School of Architecture!

I picked last year's winner (based solely on his just being "nutty"), but imagine my surprise when I did it again!

Chloe Dao was selected by the panel this year! I pulled for her because she was the most consistent and professional of the designers. The fact that she was from Houston might have played a small part!

As the winner of the show's second season, Dao receives $100,000 in seed money to help launch her own fashion line and a mentorship from the Banana Republic design team, according to the show's Web site.

Dao said she plans to stay in Houston, where she hopes to expand her successful boutique, Lot 8, and design her own line. "It's about me figuring out how to do this right, where I can balance having a life also," said Dao, who was 8 when her family moved to the United States from Laos.

Kinky Is Good

Any man who treats is dogs well is good by me!

Kinky Vote

I might just get a little Kinky with my vote for governor!

How Unfair Can Life Be? Chris, Dana and Will Reeve

I was driving to work this morning, feeling a little sorry for myself. I had a hard work day ahead, and I was already feeling the pressure.

Last night, I realized that my mother's birthday is approaching, with the anniversary of her death a mere day behind. In about an hour's time, I relived her death, preceded by my Dad's. And I felt mournful. I felt sad. And I felt sorry for myself.

According to Kathy Lewis, president of the Christopher Reeve Foundation, Will is now, "In the loving arms of family and friends." The Reeve's closest friends celebrated Dana's life Tuesday. Best friends Robin Williams and his wife Marsha said, "The brightest light has gone out. We will forever celebrate her loving spirit."

In my (ripe) middle age, of all the many friends I treasure, I only have two that have experienced the loss of their parents. The surrounding feelings are incomprehensible, until they are your own, even at this age.

I was only a block away from work when, breaking into his diatribe on moral issues, the radio host announced that yesterday, Dana Reeve lost her own life to lung cancer.

My thoughts immediately went to Dana's son, Will. And I pulled over into a parking lot. I had to think. I had to process. My own experience was too fresh on my mind.

Christopher died in 2004 after his long battle with paralysis. She also lost her mother to cancer just months before her own cancer diagnosis.

Dana and Christopher's 13-year-old son, Will, was only 3 when his father was paralyzed. Now the young teenager will have to face life without either parent. Dana spoke of Will's resilience in the face of his father's death.

"One of the greatest gifts we could give our children are the tools to face life's inevitable adversity," Dana said. "He's an incredibly upbeat kid."

I'm an architect.

People seem fascinated by what I do.

Equal to their fascination is their shock at the number of hours I work and the level of professional poverty at which, by both appearance and reality, am compensated.

I think most people would be shocked at the level of detailed decisions, as well as the burden of responsibility and liability that I undertake everday, so I'm undertaking a commentary on Architect, Architecture and Society.

I'll say it up front: I'm not sure if I'll be able to maintain energy on this project.

One of the reasons I love my little blogs... is because I escape my every day professional thoughts! I'll try, though. I will.

Drawing More Flies With Honey

This is one my dear (and sorely missed) Mother's favorite sayings:

"You draw more flies with honey than vinegar."

And it's true... even when an investigative reporter proclaims that she is inclined to agree with a punk/slimeball/sociopath/criminal.

Nice to Know Someone Noticed

With all the focus on New Orleans, New Orleans, New Orleans... noone seems to notice the extent that Houston has extended the hand of neighborliness, at her own expense.

Thanks to Greta for taking notice, and for telling the world!

According to tape recordings, Jermaine discussed Michael's history of drug and alcohol abuse, and expressed concern that the King of Pop "had a thing for young children" and might be guilty of child molestation.

According to this story, his older brother feared the worst but backed him at trial because he thought Michael might potentially commit suicide in prison.

The eight page book proposal offered an inside look at Michael's troubles, and Jermaine indicated MJ's preference for Vicodin, Demerol, codeine, Percocet, cocaine, Jack Daniels and wine.

Appearing on CNN's "Larry King Live" on Monday night however, Jermaine denounced the book proposal detailed in The News as a lie, however, author Stacy Brown was able to produce the tapes, from storage, with Jermaine's comments, in context.

"Without a doubt," the tapes will prove Jermaine bashed Michael, Brown
said. Jermaine became "very emotional" at times during the book interviews, the
author said. "He'd be crying, spilling his guts, pouring his heart out for hours
on end. I thought, 'Man, this is really deep,' " Brown said.

Brown said Jermaine pulled the plug on the book after Michael, 47, got wind
of it and went ballistic, threatening to sue and toss Jermaine out of the family
home. By that time, an agent already had shopped the proposal to at least three
publishers and he and Jermaine had attended a meeting at one major book house
with "five or six" employees in attendance. "There's a paper trail," Brown said.

A few other spicy details and confirmations (duh!):

• The Jackson family has protected MJ's image
• MJ also cheats and lies
• MJ changed the color of his skin.
• Even the pop star's behavior with his own nephews has left his family "shaken," according to Jermaine. He recounts the family coming together after the death of brother Tito's ex-wife in the mid 1990s and finding Michael sitting on a bed with Tito's young sons and holding them in a disturbing manner.
• During the Jackson 5 days, Michael's brothers feared he was gay. The brothers met lots of women while touring and all eventually fell in love. "But Michael, well, he wasn't interested. We used to quietly say that we couldn't have a gay brother."
• Michael hates Jews because he thinks Hollywood moguls Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen stole the idea for Dreamworks studio, including the boy-on-the moon logo, from him.

I Told You So

I did. And then there's also an unbelievable story of rabies and transplants.

Joran Van Der Sloot and Greta's Panel

It's obvious that the members of Greta's panel have time for only MSM accounts and not enough time to read the blogs and forums related to the NH Case. Hearing Joran's statements alone, of course anyone would think he's free of guilt. If, however, you were to read the daily blogs and forums, I think you would have far more questions about Joran's believability.

I read them all, the pro-BHT forums as well as the Joran-is-god forums. And I'll tell you this: Joran's interviews have responded to both. Further, in his interview with Greta, he responded to the banter between factions in the time periods between his ABC (NYC) interview and his interview (Aruba) with her.

Joran has had almost a year to convince himself that he's not guilty of heinous acts. Studies of human behavior will tell you that it can be accomplished in far less time. The lie has become Joran's reality, and it's a reality that he can convincingly recite. The more he practices, the better he gets.

It is up to the ALE to track the inconsistencies. It is up to their discretion to pursue the matter further. THAT is the sad state of the matter to which I don't pin a great amount of hope for resolution.

Greta's Joran Van Der Sloot Interview, Part 2

Pull out your waders, it's getting deep in here.

Joran Van Der Sloot: Interview with Greta

Only the ALE know what Joran has testified before, but here are my thoughts and observations on Joran's interview with Greta last night:

Observation 1: Joran is reading (reviews of his previous interviews in) ALL of the blogs and forums!

1. In contrast to previous interviews, he altered his impression of Natalee, creating (an illusion of) more warm and fuzzy emotions. He knows people are having a hard time with the callous attitude that he displayed a week ago.
2. In contrast to previous interviews, he altered his impression of Natalee's mother. He was careful to fully empathize with her for the first time, to temper his view of her treatment of him, and to focus his contempt on her support of the boycott on Aruba.
3. He provided additional details to respond to the inconsistencies that bloggers and forum members have pointed out to him... in length and micro-detail.

Observation 2: Joran has ALWAYS read ALL of the blogs and forums!

1. It is my belief that he picked up the reference to Natalee's mom as "Hitler's sister" from the forums. I don't believe she said this to him. Having been the teenage daughter of a strict mom, I believe that she might have made this comment to her running buddies, in jest. This has been a "rumor" in the forums for quite a while. According to Joran and his description of the events, could this have even been a topic? Perhaps... if questioning whether it was a good idea to go to his house, Joran told her that his father was 'cool'... she might have contrasted that with "my mom is Hitler's sister!" That said, they either went to his house... or she didn't say it.
2. In last night's interview, he said he had read or heard that another of her friends had confirmed that she said this before. Yes, he read it in a forum!

Observation 3: Joran said that Natalee asked him if he lived in a "big house".

1. While I'm sure that she was convinced of Joran's "aristocracy" (in his defense, I think he presents himself in that manner), I don't believe she asked this question.
2. Perhaps this observation should be filed under "He's always read the blogs", because this is a statement that would paint the picture that the Joran-lovers/Beth-and-therefore-Natalee-haters have painted for about 8 months now.
3. If she actually said this, I believe it was said flippantly when he mentioned that he had his own "apartment" separate from the house. And I don't believe for a minute that they didn't go in.
4. Greta carefully asked enough questions for us to be sure... Deepak and Satish parked and went into his apartment. He walked out after midnight with them, headed for Carlos & Charlies. Why all of a sudden... would he have had concern that when he walked in an hour later with Natalee... that Paulus would have known? Surely Paulus would have been more likely to hear Joran leave, that Joran coming in.
5. Further... if he had worried, how would I get her back to her hotel? He confessed that Deepak and Satish had no problem coming back (essentially anywhere). It was NO BIG DEAL. Greta went over and over it with him. And he dug his hole.

Ovservation 4: The Racist Comment, Natalee asked him if Deepak and Satish were his slaves or servants (because they were driving him around).

1. I can't believe ANYONE, let alone an American would make this statement, let alone Natalee. I believe Joran dropped this other little bomb to, again, taint her character and in his mind, displace responsibility.
2. Or to incriminate the Kalpoes, under the guise of anger and disgust, although Joran admitted that they might not have heard the comment. I believe he "admitted" that because (a) she didn't say it, and (b) the Kalpoes weren't in on that particular lie.
3. Perhaps I should have listed this under "He's always read the blogs", because this is the kind of characterization with which Joran supporters have portrayed Mountain Brookers, Beth and Natalee.
4. Even if you buy into the MB state of mind, Natalee wasn't born into this sort of "aristocracy".
5. Buying into this argument, would you really think the Kalpoes were slaves??? I don' t think so! Of course, she might have asked if they were his chauffers, since he didn't act like he really knew them. And wouldn't a 19 year old rich boy not have his own car?
6. Alabama(n) does not equal racist, in spite of the old stereotype he's leaning on.
7. Have the psychologists view the photographs and videotapes of her demeanor, then tell me that Natalee felt that she was aristocratic and better than anyone/everyone else.
8. It's not the "servent" Kalpoes that Beth most blames. If Beth and Dave were such racists, why would they not have been happy to prosecute the black security guards?
9. Perhaps to counter-balance the accusations of his own racism, as Joran and the Kalpoes assigned blame to the BLACK security guards... perhaps Joran is also displacing blame to a racist Natalee.

By the way, there are PLENTY of opinions on this particular topic, and I don't claim to be the authority! These are just my observations.

I feel badly that I have participated in the discussion forums that Joran has used to establish his defense. However, as he keeps changing his feelings and descriptions of the night in question, relative to all of the questions we have and discrepancies we find, I think he's digging himself a bigger hole with ALE. But then, only time will tell.

Let's see what unfolds in Greta's Interview, Part 2, tonight!

A Rich, Full Life and Other TV Happenings

Glenn Beck is a hunk!

Crime is so practically non-existant that Greta Van Susteren makes Aruba's 'most wanted' list.

Why so many blog entries tonight??? I'm trying to stay awake for Greta's interview with Joran Van Der Sloot, of course. It's pointless, I know. The case is blown. One can now only hope for a secret told in a moment of weakness.

Rolling the Trash to the Curb

Background

I live in a great neighborhood with large, shady trees. It was established in the late 1940's, early 1950's and has remained, for the very most part, really well maintained. People take pride in their homes and look out for each other. You can't beat it's location and it's just a great place to live. But like many old neighborhoods, it has sadly found itself on a sort of edge. It's most outward edge has become... shall we say, risky.

Rolling the Trash to the Curb

In the past, it was a given that you had the inalienable right to roll your trash to the curb the night before pick-up, without so much a glancing thought that someone would enter that sanctified container.

That, my friend, is the past. Witness:

1. On one evening before heavy trash pickup day, someone actually ripped open bags that I had placed neatly on the curb. Not only were the bags ripped, but the contents were strewn along the sidewalk, and items were missing.
2. That night, I re-bagged the items and left them on the curb. The HT people didn't come the following day, and when I got home from work, the bags were ripped open again!
3. I re-bagged the re-bagged items and made a poster board sign that read: "PLEASE DON'T RIP OPEN THE BAGS. IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN WHAT'S IN THEM, PLEASE TAKE THEM TO YOUR HOUSE TO GO THROUGH THEM".
4. I woke up the next morning and the bags were gone.
5. One night, I actually caught a man going through my trash can! Like an absolute fool, I flew out of the house in my pajamas ( and on my broom) and confronted him. Fortunately, he was a gentle old soul and I felt awful about my hostility. I even ended up helping find the various cans and metals. It was obvious that he needed those items, and while I felt my privacy had been invaded, his motive outweighed my anger.
6. On many occasions, I have walked out to the trash container (on the curb) to throw one last bag away, and I've found beer bottles and cigarette boxes on top. I know it's the neighborhood teenagers, and they mean no harm. I'd rather they throw them in a trash can (someone else's) than discard them on the curb.

All of this said, I've made it a rule to wait until morning to roll my trash to the curb.

Tonight, however, I feel safe. With pride and a sense of giddy amusement, I rolled my city-issued trash can to the curb.

Why pride and amusement?

Right on top of the weekly garbage, I placed a huge bag of dog poop.

America will take "The Simpsons" for a 1000, Alex

According to this poll, of all Americans:

• 22% know all five of "The Simpsons", by name.
• 50% know at least two of "The Simpsons", by name.
• 25% know ONLY ONE of the five freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment.*

And this is REALLY sad...

• 0.001% know ALL FIVE freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment.
• 20% thought the right to own a pet was protected by the First Amendment.
• 38% thought the right against self-incrimination was protected by the First Amendment. It IS protected, but by the Fifth Amendment (hence... "plea the Fifth").
• And more people could name the three "American Idol" judges than could identify three First Amendment rights.

I took the survey in the car, listening to the radio on the way to work this morning. My results:

• I knew 4 of 5 of "The Simpsons" by name. I couldn't remember the baby's name, but I COULD imitate the noise she makes. ;-)
• I knew all 3 of the "American Idol" judges' names. (Did I just admit that???).
• And, I knew all 5 of the freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. I didn't recall the term, "redress". I said "the freedom to disagree with your government".

*To abate the immediate google search, the following are the five freedoms guaranteed by our First Amendment:

• Freedom of Speech (Incidentally, I am curious why speech is spelled with an e, and speak is spelled with an a. Anyone know?).
• Freedom of Religion.
• Freedom of Press.
• Freedom of Assembly.
• Freedom of Petition for Redress of Grievances.

Thank God for the Pottery Barn Catalog!

Over the weekend, I saw the results of a GERM study on the news:

• Lavatory faucet handles are worse than the inside of the toilet.
• And the magazines in a doctor's office... well, they are worse than almost ANYthing!

This is not something I've never considered before. I've always been a slight germaphobe, and have avoided touching ANYthing in the doctor's office. You see, I'm usually there NOT because I'm "sick", but because I'm having a wellness exam or maybe a sore foot or something.

I usually sit there quietly, with my hands tucked up under my armpits, staring at the fish tank. The problem is, everyone likes to sit near the fish tank... and I don't want to sit with them!

So today, I went prepared... armed with my own POTTERY BARN CATALOG! And trust me, I didn't let IT touch anything either.

Home Sick: Misery and Musings

DAY ONE: MONDAY

1. God, it was good to get home and take my clothes off.
2. Ahhhh... clean sheats and a heating pad.
3. Feeling achy and cold, on not a cold day, I took my temperature. It was 101.2, leaving me with some concern... as (really bad) colon problems run in my family.
4. Miss C drove me crazy.
5. Cooking macaroni and cheese for a late lunch was an ordeal.
6. Dozed most of the afternoon, but noted that judge shows are still good tv.
7. Dozed and missed most of Dr Phil. The part I saw was sick fun.
8. Caught Oprah: Mark Jacobs. He was cool, but I don't get the hubbub. And I don't get the handbag fetish thing... made me wonder if it's a gene.
9. Caught Oprah: The Jimmy Choo shoes were cool, but I'm just SO not a shoe addict... made me wonder if it's a gene. MORE ON THIS STORY LATER.
10. Caught Oprah: Wow. I think at one time I had the original Barbie (worth $25,000 today). I didn't see a use for it then. Sadly, I DO NOW!!!!
11. Caught Oprah: Elmo is a tall black man with a deep voice!!!! Who knew!!! Sadly, it was the shortest part of her program, and frankly, why I tuned in!
12. Cratered to Miss C and let her run around in the yard.
13. Discovered that she DID see a meter man (when she barked). He left the gate unlocked!Fortunately, I checked it before it blew open.
14. Fed Miss C and ate some pizza crust for dinner. Fed the grilled chicken to the baby!
15. Took my temperature again during Raymond re-runs... 100.4.
16. Settled in for the night and watched Wife Swap. Can you believe that woman had a frosty bear head in her freezer???
17. Flipped between 2 1/2 Men and The Bachelor (am I actually admitting this???).
18. Made a mental note to stay up to catch the local ABC affiliate's update on Matt Hickl (the ultimate bachelor)... but fell asleep, instead.
    

DAY TWO: TUESDAY

1. Slept pretty well, but was upset to wake up in pain... again.
2. Feeling a lot less achy, took my temperature. 98.2.
3. Belly still too tender for clothing, but was happy that I could sit up with little pain. Decided that sweat pants would have to do for the medical center!
4. Did a little work from home. Let Miss C do her deal.
5. Did all the stuff you have to do before a Well Woman Exam. You girls know what I'm talking about.
6. Promised the folks in the office that I would be there tomorrow. There's no way I would have been productive the last two days, it's good to know that I'm needed.
7. Said a prayer and headed off for the poking and prodding.
8. Made it home after a long wait at the doctor's office. Look for a post later on this ordeal.
9. Miss C was exhuberant.
10. Ate pizza crust for dinner.
11. And now I'm headed for bed, so exhausted that I don't even care what's on television.

'Well' Woman Exam

If you get sick the day before your 'Well' Woman Exam... should you cancel?

Pain at the Pump

Mid-afternoon on Sunday, I started to not feel so well. By the time I woke up on Monday, I was REALLY sick. I got up and went through the motions, thinking that I would feel better once I was up and moving around.

I made it, painfully, to work and stayed for an hour and a half before I couldn't take it any more. I signed out and started home but had to stop for gas on the way home. And for the first time since the darn things were invented... the pay-at-the-pump wouldn't clear out after pumping my gas. I had to go in the store and argue with the manager, who really didn't care if someone could drive up and fill up on my credit card. She couldn't print a receipt for me. She essentially told me that there was nothing she could do.

I was in a lot of pain by that point, and while I remained respectful... my recollection is that I was loud. I didn't care how many phone calls she had made to the company. I didn't care that they hadn't called her back. I just told her that we needed to reach some resolution, and that I wasn't willing to rely on her memory, should my statement record an excessive billing.

(Heck... it was already $25.50 for a tiny little CRV tank of gas!)

We went back and forth and back and forth. The store filled up with people with the same complaint. Some of them agreed to drive off, in blind trust. It turns out, that there WAS something she could do about it. She managed to clear the pump. And she rubbed my credit card to create a receipt, showing the amount. And she signed and dated it.

Fair enough! I like her tenacity. Of course, I don't think she appreciated mine.

Random Memo: 022306

The Random Memo is back by popular demand (ha!)...

1. I am jokingly referred to, at work, as "the design goddess" and "oh great one". Joke or not, it's actually true! :-)
2. Ever notice that co-workers regard a day that you spent travelling and attending a client meeting... as a vacation? I much prefer, and feel more rested from, a good hard day's work in the office.
3. I think Miss C has been blogging again.
4. Note to self: Check the City of Houston Job Listings! I could use a salary doubling bonus! (Refer to previous post).
5. It's too bad that the IRS doesn't pay interest on refunds.
6. I worked really hard today (and everyday...?) and my boss told me that I could leave early, for my efforts. I got in the car and started home. Heading down the ramp of the parking garage, I glanced at the clock. It was 9 minutes earlier than I was scheduled to leave. Hmmph. I'll bet he laughed himself silly after I walked out the door.
7. Houston traffic sucks. (Alert the media!)
8. If you want to find me tonight at 9pm, you know I'll be parked in front of the tv, watching Joran on ABC. Greta cracked me up last night, reminding her viewers that the conflict in programming is the reason TIVO was invented.
9. For some reason, I don't think Joran and the VDS family are going to be pleased with their decision. But hey... I could be wrong. We'll see.
10. For some reason, I don't think the Kalpoes are going to be pleased with the interview tonight either. IMHO, it seems Joran is setting them up by indicating that they knew where Natalee was and had the vehicular means to return to her. But hey... I could be wrong. We'll see.
11. Already, from the clips I've viewed, Joran contradicts himself. (Alert the media!)
12. Dealing with narcissistic personalities is a bitch... no?
13. Whattaya know... it might be nature, after all! Look for a post soon with further commentary. (Snicker)... You might also look for JAGG's commentary!
14. BEWARE... a restaurant that lists a "new" chicken club sandwich on the menu might just be trying to sell more chickenburgers in disguise.
15. Andrea Yates is in the news again... and I'm reading the book, "Are You There Alone (The Unspeakable Crime of Andrea Yates)" (Suzane O'Malley). I'll have more to say later, but for now, I'll say that I am someone who has taken on the responsibility for someone that didn't have the faculties to be left alone. The emotions that surround this responsibility are incredibly complicated, and hindsight is 20/20. Children weren't involved in my case. So at this point (in my progress in the book), I have to reserve judgment. More later...
16. I just can't wait for my new issue of fusion. That Glenn, he's a hunk! (ha).
17. I have a new perspective on the UAE port contract. (1) After listening to a Houston Port Authority guy, I think this is really no big deal. And (2) I think Bush is leading the Democrats into establishing precedent for special circumstances due to war-time and terrorism. Congress is in an uproar over wire-tapping. Their opposition to the port contract establishes the precedent that there are "unusual circumstances" in this day and age. I could be wrong. And personally, I have mixed emotions. Raised in a a politically active family, I tend to see past the obvious. This time... I'm just not sure what I see!
18. Wow... Mr. P has been with me for over a month! Update coming soon! What in the world is Mr. P?
19. Old friends are a treasure. My old friends know everywhere I've been, and a lot of it hasn't been pretty. I've been through so much that I can no longer afford the luxury to hide any of it. My old friends respect HOW I came through it all, and they understand, at least partly, who I am on the other side, but really...
20. No one REALLY KNOWS me any more.

Amen, Mayor White

"If there was enough money for somebody to steal, there was too much money."

Quote by Mayor Bill White, regarding the Mayor Pro Tem scandal.

Needless to say, I don't work in a profession that observes any but the "biggest" holidays. So, off I went to work this morning! It was nice... the NBA All Star Weekend traffic had dissipated as folks either left town last night, or more likely, slept in this morning. Incidentally, I heard that traffic on the West Loop near the Galleria this weekend was as bad as it was during the Hurricane Rita evacuation!

The weather is still gloomy and cold. And I was soooo incredibly sleepy all day! Then when lunchtime came, I turned down the lunch gang because noone could think of a warm place to go! One of the guys was going out to run errands and offered to bring back a sandwich, so I took him up on his offer and stayed in.

I had a pressing morning deadline, and I worked this weekend to meet it. I spent much of the morning piddling with some things that I knew would be needed in the future (not by me, but by someone). I took a few telephone calls. I mentored a little. And I waited... knowing there was another project in line for my attention, but waiting on the information to be passed to me.

So... I had a little time to think about what's important. And here's what I came up with:

Lunch is important. Correction: GOING OUT TO LUNCH IS IMPORTANT.

$130,000 Hires How Many Cops?

I'm not sure how much an HPD officer makes, but even if we hired only one with this swindled waste of taxpayer's cash, I'd be good with it. What an outrage!

Arrogance Supercedes Common Sense

Guilt rots a person from the inside out. And in the opposite manner, arrogance supercedes common sense.

Ancient Greek Basketball

To compare skating, skiiing and the luge... to the ancient Greek sport of basketball is ludicrous!

The Bush / Quail Incident

I enjoy good political satire and cartoons as well, if not better than the next guy. And it comes in the form of a game, all the much better!

Sometimes it's not so much the event that is scandalous, but the arrogant media frenzy.

Restaurant Review: Star Pizza

Margherita Pizza........

Olive Oil, Fresh Garlic, Roma Tomatoes, Parmesan, and Fresh Basil.
Add Grilled Chicken.
Deep dish Wheat crust.

It's hard to beat Star (I'm partial to the 2111 Norfolk location for their pizza, and the ever moving other one for ambience) and you sure can't beat this pizza. The ingredients are always fresh and ample. I can't stand a pizza that's all cheese, and these folks know when to say when, but not a moment too soon. And you never get a half-cooked pie!

Confession time... this wheat crust, for me, is like having dessert!

Friday Night, Star Pizza and Hornitos

It's been a while since I've had a Friday night at home. In some respects, I think... wow, that's sad... no plans on a Friday night! But, having given it a tiny bit of thought... it's kinda nice! I've got yummy Star Pizza leftovers in the frige, and a bottle of Hornitos that, if I'm not mistaken, is calling my name!

Hard Night's Day!

That's right. I goofed around on Wednesday, so I had to shift into overdrive last night. I got a LOT done, I'm happy to report, but facing the day this morning was a little hard.

No worries, though! It's FRIDAY!!!! I've got a little work to do this weekend, but mostly I've got "me" time!

A Hard Day's Night

I'm procrastinating.

I have work to do but don't feel like doing it. I didn't work last night. I reasoned that it was Valentine's Day. And if I don't work tonight, then I'll be backed into a really tight corner tomorrow night.

It's not like there isn't money involved... there is! And a nice sum, at that! So why can't I manage to apply myself??? It's like my brain is bucking the additional pressure!

It's because today, at work, was just one of those days... I was stretched and pulled in every direction possible, and then a few more besides. It was a hard, hard day.

I had two scheduled meetings. The first one was out of the office and with a client who was an hour and forty-five minutes late. A client called to schedule a third afternoon meeting, while I was at the first meeting. I called when I got back into the office, to indicate that I could make the meeting... but the client never called me back.

I pushed work out the door on three projects, and I answered to three bosses and five clients.

The drive to and from work was rife with the usual accidents, stalls, debris and impolite(!) drivers.

A mass marketing firm (who has somehow gotten my cell phone number) called my cell phone 4 times today.

And I woofed down a 10 minute junk food lunch.

I love my job, and I wouldn't be happy without the responsibility... but a hard day's night is sometimes not productive (or profitable!). Oh, well... there's always the hope that tomorrow will be different!

A Valentine Goat

I had a GREAT Valentine's Day, and I hope you all did, too!

This is one of the best Valentine's stories I've ever read.

'Love' was born on February 7th, bearing a perfectly shaped heart on its fur. Barbara Opper, the goat's owner, believes it to be a Valentine's Day gift from her deceased husband, who died nine years ago.

I don't know about you, but... I believe.

My Personal Take on Aruba

I've made no secret of my sadness over the Natalee Holloway disappearance and anger over the shoddy investigation. But I don't think it's any state government's business to legislate a boycott.

I have more faith in the individual... that each individual is capable of determining how to distribute their expendable income.

For me, it's a difficult question, as I find Aruba to be rich in beauty and the goodness of the average hard working citizen, and poor in the way its class driven society protects (gives the benefit of the doubt or turns a blind eye toward) its arrogant youth, at the expense of its hard working, law abiding society.

A government that ignores, essentially condones illicit activity.

Comments, Please!

If you take the time to read, take the time to comment!

I know you have the time, because many of you will email a response to me!

Agree, disagree, share my laugh or tell me I'm all wet! I love your emails, but please make your comments part of the record! That's how this blog thing works!

There IS a DOG: Kimberly and Talan cancel wedding plans

Kimberly Stewart and "Laguna Beach" star Talan Torriero say their wedding plans are off."

It was just too soon to enter into a lifelong commitment," their representatives said in a statement, the Associated Press reports. "It is better to have a brief engagement than a short marriage. The couple continue to share their time together and remain open to whatever the future may hold."

Thanksgiving 2005

I am thankful every day of my life, but today is a perfect day to list the many things I'm thankful for:

1. My most precious, sweet baby... Miss C, and all the love she gives me.
2. My home.
3. My garden.
4. All the people I love.
5. That I have so many good friends.
6. That I have a job.
7. That I work with people I love and consider good friends.
8. That I'm able to meet my bills, and put a tiny bit back into savings.
9. My extra-curricular jobs, for reason number 8.
10. That I have learned the lessons that I have.
11. That I had the best parents in the world. That I know they're still watching over me. That I know they can hear me, I just can't hear them... but that I KNOW what they would say.
12. That I have lost the worst and most that I can lose... knowing that I can lose a tremendous amount again, but with the experience to know I can survive.
13. That I know what I'm looking for in an intimate relationship.
14. My good health.
15. For my little CRV, which will soon be back in good shape.
16. That I am blessed in ways I'm not fully aware.

Ok... I don't know why it hadn't occurred to me sooner, but the reality of the way the reality series has come into reality... I feel like all my favorite LB folks have been cheated out of their true emotions.

Who knew what Lauren and Stephen could mean to each other? Or to anyone else...

I'm sorry, but throw Paris Hilton into the picture (as well as many, many others)... and life is no longer real.

Take out their interests in surfing and cooking and romance... and you have just another group of celebrities without a grounded investment in life.

Color me stupid and naive... I thought the relationship between Lauren and Stephen might mean more than that.

Talan... Engaged?

Excuse me? Talan is engaged to Kimberly Stewart???

Please! I beg you, Talan! Say it isn't so! No slight intended toward Kimberly Stewart... I'm a big fan of her dad's, and I have nothing in particular against her (well, excepting that statement she made about my gal, Jennifer Anniston!!!).

It all just seems way too superficial... and I feel ashamed of my gullability. I believed Talan to be chivalrous and genuine... but the article concludes by stating that he's attempting to start a career in music. Well, doesn't that explain a lot?!

Ozark Mountain Resort: Day Two

Miss C and I hiked short distances today, trying to acclimate ourselves to (1) hiking, (2) steep slopes, (3) leashes and (4) relieving on command.

Number (2) was a challenge... but (4) was particularly problematic. I don't ever remember a time when I've been so consumed by whether she has pooped or not. For two reasons, I just want to know that she has: (1) She'll be more comfortable... and (2) I'll know when I go to bed at night... that she won't get an uncontrollable urge at 2am. Color me selfish for wanting sleep... or color me scared of the sounds of the deep, dark wildness... but I want to know by 9pm, that we are in for the evening.

I drove in to Kimberling City to the grocery store this afternoon. I didn't know which one I was going to, until I pulled in the parking lot.

I passed up "Summer Fresh"... mostly because we are in the heart of the fall. Second, because of a funny little saying that popped in my head... "summer fresh, summer not".

So... I went to "Harter House". Yes, that is "Harter", no "C".

According to what I read on the billboards, as well as the resort propaganda... "Harter House" is known for their meats.

Let me translate that for you... that means that they package it for you when you order it. They don't have ready-made packages sitting in cases. I'll add... the meats were extremely fresh, good and plentiful. The rest of the store's contents... not so much so.

It was good to get out of the cabin, though... alone. I am having to acclimate, too, to constant companionship. I'm not saying that it's not pleasurable... but, I'm not accustomed to someone asking... when I prepare a drink for myself... "are you thirsty?"... or a snack, "are you hungry?"...

All's good. It remains to be seen, however, if this week of vacation seems short... or long.

Ozark Mountain Resort: Day One

Well... we're here.

The day was pleasant but long.

The turning leaves were just beautiful. I'm sorry that I couldn't really take it all in, but the roads (by this point in the journey) were trecherous for a driver who is only accustomed to the flatlands and traffic jams of Houston. I wish we could have taken photos... it WAS breath taking.

The cabin is great, but in the dark... I'm disappointed with the resort. First, the roads within the resort disappear below the hood of the car. They are also not well marked. Second, the slopes are so steep, that I can only envision my 71 year old aunt trapped within the confines of the cabin. It scared the wits out of me, watching her navigate her way in...

There are guardrails, but no handrail. There are steps, but they slope and are unevenly spaced. This is no place for an elder or anyone with who has any sort of mobility difficulty... or for that matter, anyone who is the least bit out of shape!

I called the resort office, though, and they are willing to move us tomorrow, if an accessible unit is available. My aunt and I have agreed to take a look at the situation in the morning's light.

For now... we will make it an early night. We are without supper (except for Miss C, of course!)... and tired!

Ozark Mountain Resort: Our Departure

I've got the CRV cleaned up and loaded and Miss C and I are heading out this afternoon. Our first stop will be Nacogdoches, where we will stay overnight at my aunt's and uncle's house. My aunt will join me on this adventure.

I should tell you that my aunt and uncle have graciously offered their time share to me, either by gift or by will. They have reached a point in their lives, where they no longer wish to travel regularly. They have a red zone timeshare, with unlimited use. Their "home" property is in Kimberling City, Missouri, and that's where we're headed.

Who better to share our week with, than my aunt?! She loves Miss C, and she loves me a little bit, too. We've had a lot of fun planning and I'm excited that the time has finally arrived.

UPDATE: I have made it to Nacogdoches. We only had to stop once for someone to relieve herself. I'm not naming names, but it wasn't me. After a brief walk in Livingston, we were back on the road, and we made it here without incident.

Random Memo 103005: Making Up For Lost Time

A lot has happened since I last blogged. And I've been busier than busy. If idle hands are the devil's playground, then I'm in good shape!

1. The Astros won the National League title. I'll admit it... I was in bed when the title was clinched, but I got up and dressed and went out to the street where neighbors were gathering to celebrate (hugs, high fives and fireworks).
2. The World Series fell far short of my long-awaited expectations. And it didn't have anything to do with how the Astros played. I think our guys did an outstanding job, played hard and displayed the heart and good character I know they have. It was the media degradation and incessant criticism... of not only the team, but the City of Houston, in general. I grew from weary and saddened... to outright engraged. I remain proud of my Astros and their accomplishments, but I've developed a pretty powerful disrespect for Fox Sports and their commentary.
3. Some really good neighborhood relationships solidified during the preparation for Hurricane Rita. Good things DO sometimes arise from difficult situations.
4. I picked up a great moonlight project, and I'm stoked about the potential.
5. I had a great belated birthday celebration, put together by Dude and KBJ. It rocked.
6. Work has been WAY more stressful than usual. I've got a fast-track project, with a tight budget, and I've been working as hard as I can to meet all of the requirements. It's kinda neat because I'm working with a principal who is really involved, and he's helping A LOT. Too, the project is located close to my hometown, and I am childhood friends with the general contractor. I want to do an extraordinarily good job (like always), for all of the parties involved... which doesn't change my work habits, but adds a layer of internally initiated responsibility and stress.
7. Tragedy. An acquaintance of my aunt and uncle... hit an 18-wheeler head-on. He was killed instantly, as was one of his dogs. The other dog was at home. Long story short (link provided later), the man's father took the surviving dog to the pound. My aunt and uncle rescued him from the pound and have placed him in a private kennel, while we can find him a permanent home. Look for more links later, while I agonize over whether Miss C would accept him!
8. I'm getting ready to go on a road-trip vacation. The timing is poor on all accounts, but there are extenuating circumstances. Miss C and I are swinging through Doches and picking up my aunt. It will be a week of relaxation, games and jigsaw puzzles, hanging out, old movies, good food, long walks and a little antique shopping. Check out my blog from the road!
9. Went to a club last night to witness, for the first time, (my pal) Mike's band. Check out 2nd Wind. I rode over with (my pal and) Mike's wife. We had a great time and the band rocked the house! I can't wait to see/hear them again!!!

Cooking Chili for Boss' Day

Long story, but I find myself, as do several of my co-workers, cooking chili for a Boss' Day celebration tomorrow. And while it's not a competition... it really IS!

I've never cooked chili before, so for this endeavor, I interviewed many who have... and I researched the history of the delicacy.

I won't share my secret recipe at this point, as it is a little of everything I've learned, but I WILL reveal my recipe's name:

"East Texas Rib Sticker"!

It's tasting pretty dad-gum good. I think I might just have it in the bag... And, on the off chance it doesn't go over well, I'll have good eats for the weekend!

Change of Pace

The thing about my job that's so disjointing is... you run at 1000mph for so long, and then you stop for a day to travel and meet with a client. And that day is often (like today) comprised of a long car ride, waiting for parties to arrive, lengthy conversations, and not so many decisons before a leisurely, late lunch and car trip home.

It's like blasting off at full throttle and coasting to a stop. And tomorrow, somehow, I must find the fuel to blast off again.

Random Memo 100905

1. Met with new clients. They seem like great people. Our personalities gelled, and I don't think I've ever laughed so hard in my life.
2. Completed a drawing for MMSP.
3. Wrote a proposal for professional services.
4. Pulled some OT.
5. Shmuggled with Miss C.
6. Bleached the kitchen counters.
7. Washed and dried clothes and sheets and towels.
8. Made a vacation list and terms of agreement for my vacation companion. Ha.
9. Gathered pecans.
10. Piddled in the yard.
11. Watched a healthy share of television, including old movies and a ton of Made.
12. Enjoyed the Astros' results!
13. Checked out some other blogs.
14. Cleaned house.
15. Made lists and plans.

Good News, and Sad, Sad News

Good: Andy Pettitte leads the Astros to a win in Game 1 over Atlanta.

Sad, sad, sad: The body of Taylor Behl was found today, confirming everyone's fears.