I Like to Watch - Rapid City

Last week I stepped out on -T and did something I have never before done.  I went to movie by myself.  It almost felt naughty.  She was working a little later than normal, and whenever she works late, I will typically go to a nearby and nearly abandoned mall and walk.   I was planning to do the same this particular evening, but stopped at the eclectic movie house I pass at the entrance to the mall.  I call it an eclectic movie house because this one rarely shows high budget, new release movies.  They prefer to show the artsy-fartsy movies than win obscure awards.

I reviewed ther "now playing" list and show times and found that I had enough time to watch a movie I had not heard of named Rapid City.  So the choice became whether I wanted to walk for 90 minutes or watch a movie.  After a nanosecond of deliberation, I decided to watch a movie.

Rapid City is a low budget story of straight arrow insurance salesman from a tiny town, Brown Valley Wisconsin.  He is selected to represent his agency at a regional convention, and compete for the coveted two diamonds award.  The insurance salesman Tim Lippe is played by Ed Helms, more commonly recognized as Andy the "Nard Dog" in the TV series The Office.  The casting is perfect.  Tim has a girlfriend back home who was his grade school teacher and is played by Sigourney Weaver.

Tim flys for the first time in his life and is impressed by the opulence of the Rapid City hotel where the convention is held.  He checks into his room which is shared with another insurance agent, who informs him that as a cost cutting measure, a third agent will also share the room.  This is where the movie begins to take a Planes, Trains and Automobile flavor.  The third agent is the obnoxious John Candy character that adds plenty of comedy to the story.

The convention begins and is stereotypical of what you might imagine a small business, small town convention to be.  For example, a scavenger hunt is the centerpiece of the first days activity.  However the story evolves a bit and becomes a "what happens in Rapid City, stays in Rapid City" plot.  The straight arrow agent, Tim, walks away form his innocence for an evening or two, learns some hard lessons and gets back to his righteous ways.  In the end, the plot has redeeming qualities however this isn't an family film.

I found the movie to be very enjoyable.  It was humorous throughout, but not in a slapstick, ha-ha sort of way.  Just funny people in peculiar situations.  It is definitely an under the radar movie that was surprising in its entertainment value.  If you spend a few bucks to see it, remember to stick around for the closing credits.  I think I may step out again very soon.

Moammar Gadhafi

We are seeing what may be the beginning of an incredible series of events in the Middle East.  After the liberation of Afghanistan and and Iraq, a free but fledgling democracy was established in both countries.  These are serving as an example to other mid-eastern countries, and shine as a beacon to a better life - an alternative to Jihad.  First, Egypt topples its dictator.  The trend spreads to Liberia, Saudi Arabia and most dramatically to Libya.

Over the next few days we will see the elimination of one of the world's worst dictators, Moammar Gadhafi.  It was he who fostered terrorism across the globe for decades, including bringing down the Pan Am flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, four days before Christmas in 1988.  The world will not miss him.  I only hope the Libyans eliminate him and that he does not gain refuge and a comfortable retirement in some country that is friendly to his ilk.

And still not a mention of the George W.Bush Mid-East Doctrine that is beginning to work.

AI - Top 24

Last night the American Idol top 24 were selected.  It was last year at this time that I made a bold prediction that Didi would win it all.  Maybe it was foolish to do that so early in the competition, but I would rather be bold than timid.  I caught a lot of heat from NILK when Didi later flopped, even he agreed she had the "it" factor.  Eventually, she proved us both wrong but only I had the courage to have selected her early.

Living by the Be Bold or Go Home credo, I am ready to make a prediction on this year's winner.  At least I am consistent.  The only contestant that seems to have the "it" factor, talent, looks and story is Julie Zorilla.  There you have it.  I have made my pick which will soon be disparaged.

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker

Here is my completely unbiased synopsis of what is happening in Illinois:

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker ran for the office in 2010 on a platform that stated he would balance the state's budget.  He was open and honest about his desire to require state employees to contribute to their own retirements and health insurance at a level consistent with the employees of private companies. 

Scott Walker was elected by a 6% margin, which is pretty large in these polarized times.  After taking office, he devised a plan to balance the state budget.  His plan includes the labor reforms he feels are needed to maintain the budget.  So far,the Governor is only doing what he must, and what he said he would do during the campaign.  Balancing the state budget is something he is required to do since he cannot simply print more money like the federal government.  The democrats in the state legislature have gone into hiding so that a quorum cannot be reached.  The stat budget remains in limbo. 

While this is a hardship for state employees, it is nothing new to those who work in the private sector.  Private sector employees have born he brunt of downsizing, salary and benefit cuts since the economy began to decline after 9-11.  Government employees have largely avoided similar pain.

The question becomes whether private sector employees should tighten their belts further to continue supporting the sweet deal government employees are receiving during a bad economy.  Governor Scott Walker says no and appears to own the mandate of a majority of Wisconsin voters.  The remaining democrats in the state legislature are opposing the will of the voters by evading their duty to participate in the process.  It is a cowardly act. I would be shocked if a single democrat is reelected to the Wisconsin state house in 2012.

That's So Right Wednesday

Another blogger has entered the family.  My niece Robin Kee has begun a blog titled Kee Creative.  Robin is an educated interior designer who has recently purchased a new home with her husband Brent (NILB).  I expect many interesting blogs as they renovate their first home.  Several of her blog posts provide insight into what we will soon see, so check the Kee Creative blog out.

It all looks pretty simple to me, so I'll try my hand at recognizing what goes into a good room design.  I know this will be difficult, but please remember that I have not gone to college to learn how to do this.

This room has all the right elements of what I consider to be good design.  First, it has originality.  See the hand painted tree on the far wall?  You can't buy that at Pier I. And the owner's decision to put their dining table next to that wall means they will enjoy many dinners with that relaxed outdoorsy feel. 

Next see how they pulled the "wood" motif from the tree and into the floors?  Even the fireplace says "wood" to me.  I love this consistency in design.  That takes a discipline that I wished I had.  Next, there is the leaf pattern on the chairs.  It feels as if the tree mural extends out to the furniture giving an end to end experience of wood.  I think this homeowner/designer got wood, and understands how to use it in their home.  Now, so do I.

Finally, the pink mantle.  What a bold use of color to draw attention to the predominate feature of the room!  This designer is not afraid to use lots of color and lots of pattern in one space.  This is a great example of what a shame it would be to live in a solid color room with solid color furniture accented with solid color pillows plus maybe one patterned one?

2011 KC Royals

Question #1: So what do you call a major league pitcher with a career 18–30 won-loss record, and a career 5.68 Earned Run Average?  If you are a Kansas City Royals fan, you call them the opening day starting pitcher.  Yes, unbelievably, Luke Hochavar has already been selected as the Royal's opening day pitcher.  BLINDING FLASH OF THE OBVIOUS: We don't have a deep staff this year.  That's what happens when you trade away a former Cy Young award winner as a way to manage the payroll. 

While the starting pitching is in shambles, the payroll is in great shape.  David Glass will turn another profit in 2011 thanks to a $34.5 million payroll, which is expected to be the least in the major leagues.  It became a foregone conclusion once Gil Meche walked away from a $12m payday to retire.  Why would any player do that?  I know he had shoulder issues, but he could be paid $12 million to sit out the 2011 season after surgery.  He must not have much confidence in this team. 

Question #2:  What do you call a 31 year old center fielder with a .289 batting average and 61 home runs over his 7 year major league career?  If you are a Kansas City Royals fan, you call him a superstar.  David DeJesus is that local superstar.  He was traded to the Oakland Athletics during the off season.  Another payroll saving trade. 

Las Vegas odds makers have the Royals as 200 to 1 long shots for winning the 2011 World Series.  I think that might be generous.  It is going to be a very long season.

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And now for something completely unrelated, this was too good to not post:

Off Today

For some strange reason, today is a holiday at my company.  We get 8 every year, and since the lat New Years day holiday fell in 2010, and the next one in 2012, the Human Resources Department was searching for a substitute holiday.  President's Day was the pick. 

I have never been a government employee so have never been off on President's Day.  I don't know how to celebrate it.  Do you put up a President's Day tree?  Is gift-giving appropriate?  Expected?  While I like the day off, I have no idea what the traditions are.  I need to consult with a government employee to find out.

Maybe the day should be spent making signs that compare politicians who attempt to balance their budgets to Hitler.  Maybe President's Day can be used to riot over treating government employees just like private employers treat their employees.  After all, government employees are a special class of people who should not be expected to contribute towards their own retirement or pay a percentage of their health insurance like the rest of us do.  That would be unfair. Taxpayers should increase their giving to support these people.  That would be fair.

Now I know what to do on President's Day.

American Idol Season 10

Other than commenting on the new judges, an opinion I still hold, I have been silent on the start of season 10.  My silence is mostly about my snub, the fact that I was given no consideration to replace Simon Cowell.  This is something that AI will live to regret.  Steven Tyler seems like a nice guy, but as a judge, he simply a Paula Abdul in men's clothes.  JayLo is a Steven Tyler in woman's clothes.  Don't think too hard on that.  Randy has assumed the hard nosed, irreverent Simon role, but it just isn't working for him.

The audition round of AI season 10 was entertaining, but not as much as earlier years.  There wasn't a memorable "She Bangs" performance, nor anything similar to the Pants on the Floor guy.  Judges comments were mostly polite, no "bug eyed jungle monkey" references, and this leads to my primary criticism of the season.

On Thursday, they narrowed the contestants down to the top 50 or so.  I agree with the hype that this group is extremely talented.  Maybe the most talented of any season's top 50.  I also blame the judges for including several  contestants that have no business making it through Hollywood week.  Specifically, the drama queen who had a couple of nervous breakdowns was a wasted pick.   She should have been let go.  I have no idea why the judges believe she can suddenly change into a viable contender.  It won't happen.

The deep voiced kid was another wasted selection.  He, like the drama queen, forgot the words!  In past seasons, that was enough to send someone home at the next possible opportunity.  Yet, due to the soft, gentle nature of this judging panel, he remains on the show.

Finally, the fat 15 year old is another wasted spot.  I know I must seem cruel to want him sent home.  He does seem like a very nice kid and was bullied by other contestants, but the fact remains that his voice is not that strong.  Maybe in a few years, once it changes, he could complete.  He was simply a mercy pick.  The judges were not strong enough to cut him now.  That is the problem with season 10.

Ouch, That Hurt

Monday night.  KSU 84, KU 68.  I didn't see that coming.  KSU had been playing so poorly that even their most ardent supporters have recently jumped off the Wildcat bandwagon.  They may be jumping back on after Jacob Pullen's 38 point career best performance.  KSU deserved the win.  It has been a long time since they have been that impressive, and probably a very short time until they again experience another depressive low.  For this brief high, I am happy for them and their fickle fans. 

But then again, it was just one game in a series of disappointing performances that are likely to continue.  And it was a home game for them.  And it was their last attempt of doing anything memorable this season.  And if Pullen plays to his scoring average, they lose. And KU still holds a 44-4 record aginast the Wildcats in modern history.  But it still hurts.

Maybe KU will get the opportunity for revenge during the Big 12 tournament.  If not maybe the NCAA tournament.  Oh yeah, KSU won't be in that tournament.  Too bad.

Telling Whoppers

Washington DC is the place where the largest lies are told.  Many folks who get their news from the mainstream media accept these lies as truth.  As the budget battle heats up this week, the size of the lies told by politicians is increasing.  Most notably, many might believe the Obama budget will get us to where we are not adding to the debt by the middle of the decade.  After all, that is what h said, and what we hear reported by the mainstream media.  It is a large whopper and nobody is a challenging it.

The truth is far different.  This asinine projection first assumes that economic growth will be far better than what Obama's own CBO (Congressional Budget Office) believes.  So they are expecting far more revenue (taxes) than they will collect.  Secondly, the projection does not count interest payments on the national debt.  Their inflated revenue expectations would pay for their projected spending programs, but not the interest on the national debt.  They are ignoring the $600-$800 billion we will send to China and others who own our debt as debt service.  That is not how families or businesses account for their finances.  For the politicians to do so is flat dishonest.

Also remember that any overpayment into Social Security will also be spent with an IOU left in the trust fund (oxymoron)  and will eventually result in additional borrowing.  Americans cannot continue to pursue the dream with so much debt.  The world economies are losing confidence in the American dollar due to this mountain of debt.  If they begin to demand payment for what we import in currency other than the dollar, hyper-inflation has arrived.  We will be forced to buy other currencies with a rapidly declining dollar.  Oil prices will skyrocket.  Inexpensive goods made overseas will be a thing of the past.  Everything will cost more, and not just a little more. 

While this impending tragedy progress before our eyes, the politicians continue to tell whoppers and the media repeats them unchallenged.

Budget Farce

Obama on his 2011 budget:

Before I take a few questions, let me say a few words about the budget we put out yesterday. Just like every family in America, the federal government has to do two things at once. It has to live within its means while still investing in the future. If you’re a family trying to cut back, you might skip going out to dinner, you might put off a vacation. But you wouldn’t want to sacrifice saving for your kids’ college education or making key repairs in your house. So you cut back on what you can’t afford to focus on what you can’t do without.

As a start, it freezes domestic discretionary spending over the next five years, which would cut the deficit by more than $400 billion over the next decade, and bring annual domestic spending to its lowest share of the economy since Dwight Eisenhower.

What he doesn't say is that deficit spending next year alone will reach $1.6 trillion, and $7.2 trillion over the next 10 years.  Our current national debt stands today at $14 trillion.  A $400 billion cut over 5 years represents an average of $80 billion per year, or only a 5% reduction in the current rate of deficit spending.  Even more comical, $80 billion a year in deficit reduction equates to only a 2% spending reduction in the overall $3.834 trillion 2011 budget.  Is he serious?  In fairness, even the republican effort to increase cuts has little effect on such massive numbers. 

At our current rate in 10 years our federal debt will reach $21 trillion using the rosiest of economic projections.  The interest on that debt (>$800 billion yearly) will be the largest non defense or entitlement line item in the budget.  Nothing substantial will be accomplished unless politicians begin a serious discussion on entitlements. And they won't becasue it is political suicide.  To understand the scope of our debt, first think about the size of a trillion dollars.

The Super Bowl this year was held in Dallas Texas at the cathedral Jerry Jones built.  The state of the art, luxury facility cost $1 billion to build.  For the amount our government will borrow this year to fund our deficit spending, they could build 32 of these facilities in every state!  Can you imagine a Dallas Cowboy stadium being built in Overland Park, Kanasas City Kansas, Wichita, Emporia, Dodge City, Goodlin, Salina and 25 other small towns in Kansas?  Virtually every school district in the United States could own one. 

Yet, these jokers can only find $80 billion a year to cut from our current spending.  Nobody is serious about solving the problem yet.

W?

The middle east is definitely in the news with the regime change that occurred in Egypt.  Now other middle east dictatorships are in jeopardy of similar citizen's revolt.  The mainstream media is telling the story as if it was a spontaneous reaction by the youth.  There has been no mention of George W. Bush's policy developed after 9-11. 

Bush was clear that his plan was to establish a democracy in Iraq that could be a shining example of freedom to the rest of the region.  Is it working?  Maybe.  But the lack of even a mention by the mainstream media is just another data point suggesting they don't want W getting any credit for his actions after 9-11.  Not surprising, but pathetic.

Health Insurance Mandate

Eventually the US Supreme will decide whether the mandate to carry health insurance is constitutional.  There are plenty of opinions on both sides.  Since I am not a constitutional scholar, my opinion does not matter.  However, I do see a crack in the reasoning behind Obamacare supporters who liken mandated health insurance to mandated automobile insurance.  To many these are analogous, but they are not.

States mandate car insurance because an uninsured motorist can wreak havoc on their own health and property, and that of others.  Automobile insurance covers the damage they cause to innocent third parties.  Mandated health insurance has no such claim.  The insurance is solely for the care of those insured.  That specific pro-Obamacare argument makes no sense.

Not That Guy

Yesterday, Yahoo had an interesting story about the worst valentines gifts ever given.  There were a few that even I could see why it was wrong,  I have never given Mrs. Bryant a gift so poorly chosen as a diet cookbook, frozen microwaveable pizzas, a shower curtain, a bathroom scale, or an encyclopedia.  The best "worst" valetine gift in my opinion was the dude who gave his sweety adjoining cemetery plots.  I suspect the gift was just in time too.

It's hard to imagine, but I too was once a thoughtless gift giver.  One year, I don't remember if it was for her birthday or valentines day, I gave -T a handheld vacuum cleaner.  Those who know -T's clean freak tendancies might think that was a perfect gift.  But no, it was not.  It seems that even the neatest and cleanest among us want something a little more thoughtful than a cleaning utensil.  There have also been several Valentines Days when there was no gifts given.  The "I know you know I love you" excuse doesn't get much traction on February 14th.

This year I will attempt a new approach.  I will give my bride something cheap, small, useful and thoughtful.  Why?  Because anything cheap, small, useful and thoughtful will always remind her of me.

Stupid Letter of the Week

Okay, I need a show of hands.  How many believe that Congress will take care of you.  Hmmm, uh huh.  Just one of you.  The author of the stupid letter for this week, Chris Kraft of Kansas City.

Vote for real change


I have a question for people out there desperately seeking jobs: Did you take the time to vote in November?


If the Democrats had won more seats, the unemployed would be better represented in Congress. The benefits would have been extended, perhaps beyond the compromised limits.


Taxes on the middle class would have been relaxed without having to compromise a huge debt under tax relief for the rich. And the billions saved from not giving the wealthy a tax break would put us on the road to economic recovery at a faster pace.


I pray that 2011 proves to be a year where those looking for a job can finally land a good one. With this new Congress, however, prayer may be our only hope.


Chris Kraft
Kansas City

Knowing that people like Chris Kraft exist in significant numbers enrages me.  Chris equates an extension of unemployment with a benevolent government when in fact, they are more likely fostering dependence.  What anyone (including the government gives) they can also take away.  Becoming dependent on unemployment checks does nothing for a families long term security.

This is one of the stark differences between liberals and conservatives.  Liberals feel good redistributing wealth.  Conservatives understand that benefits of redistribution are temporary at best.  Chris Kraft will give his vote to a liberal so they will take care of him.  He is free to do so, but becomes irritating when he asks that we help him help himself by filling the congress with nanny-state liberals.

Two overwhelmingly stupid statements highlight his letter:

• Letting the Congress spend the "billions in saved by not giving the wealthy a tax break would lead to a faster economic recovery, and
• Extending unemployment payments has something to do with finding a good job.

For these astoundingly stupid statements, Chris Kraft,  you are the stupid letter writer of the week.

Better Investing

Want a stock tip?  It's are real good one.  Here is it.  Don't listen to me.  That's because I invented the investment strategy called "Buy high, sell low".  Not only did I invent it, I perfected it with several technology stocks that went from all time highs in 1999 to near nothing during the tech bubble of the early 2000's.  Some of these stocks were tips I received from other "buy high sell low" traders as can't miss investments.  "You make 200%, 300% or more" I was told.

More recently I have changed to a different investment strategy.  I have been buying stock from companies that I like.  It's a lot easier.  There is no need to research company financials because the strategy is based on the fact that if you (an average consumer) like their products, others will too and the stock will increase in value.  It makes sense, but how does it work?  I have a couple of examples.

For instance, on December 15th I bought Netflix simply because I like the service.  The concept seems to be how we will be entertained in the future.  At the time I did not realize that Netflix had been growing exponentially for nearly a year and was thought to have completed its run.  Two days after buying the stock, several investment firms recommended selling the stock because they thought it had risen to an overvalued position.  Almost immediately, the stock price dropped 10%.  What a doofus I am.  But I did not sell, becasue I am a doofus.  But wait! Within the last 2 weeks, Netflix announced stellar earnings.  Since then the stock has shot up.  I have now made 14% on that investment.  Not bad. 

On September 9th, I bought Apple stock because I like Apple products (sorry NILK).  That stock purchase has increased 39%.  Maybe there is something to this "invest in what you like" strategy.  It certainly has a better track record than buy high, sell low.

Help a SAP

Everyone has seen the commercials.  They always start with a few pathetic pictures of hungry children, abused animals, or endangered species.  Just as you are about to reach for a tissue, the hard sell starts.  You can adopt a child, provide clean water to a village, save an abused animal, or safeguard a species for just pocket change each week. 

I don't want to make fun of feeding hungry children, or providing the essentials of life to the underprivileged, but I suspect most of these commercials are simply scams.  If I want to donate, I will do so through churches or established charities with a proven track record.  Yet, I am sure many people succumb to the sad pictures and part with their pocket change each week.  At least, that is what I am counting on.

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Each week, many professionals report every day to as job that makes them sad.  Many of these sad aging professionals (SAPs) are nearing retirement age and occupy positions that could be filled by younger, more enthusiastic workers.  If you could find it in your heart to help a SAP retire, you will bring happiness to their family and the family of the unemployed youngster who replaces them.  There aren't many opportunities to spend just a few cents per week to enrich the lives of so many, so don't hesitate.

This is Frank.   Frank is a SAP.  People from across the country now have the opportunity to help Frank achieve his goal of early retirement.  But Frank can achieve that goal without your help.  Without your help, Frank may need to work 10 more years before he retires.  That is 10 more years of unemployment for this SAP's replacement.  Think of that family.  Think of the wife who cooks the last of the family's Romaine noodles with a spoonful of rice.  Think of the children who may never know the thrill of playing Grand Theft Auto or Modern Warfare on their very own Xbox.  You can help Frank help that family by helping a SAP retire. 

Will you reach into your pocket and bring out 2 quarters.  Yes, just 50 cents.  Pretty easy, isn't it.  Now do it again.  Still pretty easy, right?  This simple action, when done 98 more times on a weekly basis, can bring happiness to two families.  For every 20 people who pledge to help by sending $50 a week to the Sad Aging Professionals Fund (SAPFUN), a SAP will retire early and create a new job for a young family.

For your gift, you will receive a picture of your SAP as they become a happy retiree.  You will also receive occasional updates on your SAP's progress from locations such as, Kansas, North Carolina, Hawaii, Florida, and California.  Detailed reports on your SAP's golf handicap, recent motorcycle trips, and current home projects will be sent periodically.  Don't wait.  A SAP needs your help.

Don't wait. Remember, it's all about the children.  A SAP is waiting now for your donation.

Stupid Letter of the Week

I haven't posted a stupid letter recently, mainly because I have been overwhelmed reading letters written by stupid people.  A letter from Kate Gaynor Riha of Kansas City caught my eye this week.  I am not sure if Kate hates America of simply idolizes President Obama. 


U.S. exceptionalism



In Kathleen Parker’s column Monday, “Expect the ‘exceptional’ and expect it quite often,” she faults President Barack Obama for not referring to the United States in his speech as “exceptional.” Parker says more conservative individuals equate referring to the U.S. as exceptional as a gauge of patriotism.


Perhaps this feeling of exceptionalism is what’s wrong with the United States, and is partially to blame for the anger that is oftentimes directed at the United States.


While good self-esteem is an admirable trait for a person or group, there’s a fine line between self-esteem and narcissism. Self-esteem is a feeling of worth that comes from confidence in skills and abilities that have been tested, and it is imperative for a person, group or country. It helps people to muster the confidence to overcome adversity.


A problem arises when self-esteem morphs into narcissism, characterized by excessive pride, a feeling of superiority, an attempt to hide any sign of weakness and an indifference to others. This often leads to bullying. The perception this gives to those outside the group is one of intolerance and superiority.


Is it any wonder that those outside the group (or country) feel resentment?


Kate Gaynor Riha
Kansas City

What I am sure of is that Kate is a liberal.  Two clues jumped out immediately.  The first is that she seems embarrassed of her country, a typical liberal guilt response.  Why shouldn't Americans have excessive pride in their country?  Kate, is there another country on earth that has contributed anything close to what America has given to the world?  The citizens of which country repeatedly step up to provide aid to tsunami, earthquake, typhoon, flooding and every other natural disaster victim across the globe?  The soldiers of which country have given their lives by the millions to win or protect freedom for another nation?  The capitalism of which country has provided medical breakthroughs and technological wonders to citizens from every country?

Kate, its America.  You have nothing to be ashamed of.  America is the most giving, caring, and human rights respecting country on earth.

Oh yeah, the second clue.  Anyone who has 3 names, such as Kate Gaynor Riha, and uses each is a east coast snooty liberal who only wants to educate us illiterate Midwesterners.

My Competitive Nature

Anyone who knows me well knows that I can't help but be competitive.  If I can't compete, I don't really want to participate.  Take college basketball.  I take pride in my Jayhawks and occasionally talk a little trash with Missouri, Kansas State or Kentucky fans.  I mean what is the point?  Neither I nor they can influence the play of our teams.  It is just another way we compete. 

-T had her gallbladder removed earlier this week.  My mind naturally went into competitive mode and I started scoring each of our missing body parts.  I had my tonsils and adenoids removed as a child, and a section of colon removed in 2009.  My score is 3.  -T had he appendix removed as a child, and her thyroid and gallbladder removed in the past 5 years.  The score is tied.

In sports they have tiebreakers.  I did have double hernia surgery back in the 1980's and almost cut my middle finger off with a hedge trimmer last year.  Sounds like a reasonable tiebreaker.  I win!

Blizzard 2011

One of my earliest memories is of seeing snow drifts piled up to the peaks of my childhood home. Today's blizzard warning in Kansas City brought that memory to mind. The recent local headlines concerning the blizzard have contained some of the local snowfall history and records. My memory could have been from 1958 when high winds drove 11 inches of snow into large drifts. A later memory is a snowfall that created 4-5 foot drifts in our yard. I was then old enough to dig snow tunnels and caves into the drifts with my neighborhood friends. Based on the history of largest KC snowfalls, that may have been 1962.

Today's blizzard warning is only the second ever issued for Kansas City. I now know that a blizzard is defined as a minimum 3 hour period of winds over 35 MPH with falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to less than a quarter mile, a pretty rare occurrence. But this is the second blizzard warning in the past 13 months here. None for the entire recorded history of Kansas City, and then 2 within 13 months. That's odd. What's the deal?

If you listen to the followers of the failed Mother Earth religion who preach manmade global warming, you know their answer. Their explanation for everything is global warming. If it gets hot during the summer, that is a sure sign that man is heating up the planet. So is a warmer than average winter. Now that the U.S. is getting blasted by storm after storm, that too is evidence that man's greed has spoiled our planet. I once heard Danny Glover, a global warming fanatic, say the Haiti earthquake was a result of global warming. As he put it, the planet was angry at man for our disregard. All you can do is smile. But I am laughing hysterically inside as I enjoy the beauty of a blizzard from the warmth of our sun room.