MERRY EVE

Went to a leisurely breakfast and made one final grocery stop for essentials. Booze and ice, well I said essentials. Though he cooks a fantabulous dinner Christmas Day, a little lubrication just makes the candles burn brighter don't you think?

Have to eat a prediction, but in the best way. The Legislature did manage to pass the heating assistance bill before they scurried off for their multi-week solstice break. One good and necessary act in the midst of some pretty coal-deserving ones this year. Well they have to look at themselves in the mirror each day, hope they can deal.

Exercise club was packed this am with all my favorites and a few new ones, who basically get in my way! The only elliptical was next to, oh no, stinky man! Well now at least I'm happy that my allergies block up some of my smelling abilities so I was able to exercise next to him calmly and not knock him off his machine. Naval comtemplator has now become another Chatty Cathy! Who knew? She was merely an oddity before, now she has joined the coffee club in the am. Chatting people up who are changing their shoes, chatting people up working out, chatting to the voices only she can hear. Double arghhh.

Final thoughts: House is clean and cozy. Decorations are up and beautiful. Presents wrapped and under the tree. Sun is shining. My family will all be together. As they say it doesn't get much better than that. See we 99% don't ask for much. Even popped another $10 in the red kettle this am though I already sent a nice check. I'm mellowing out and about freakin' time too!

DECEMBER WOMAN

A big Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter on her special day. I communicated with her at approximately 10:03 am, the time of her birth which is my annual tradition. Technology certainly changes how we communicate as it was in the form of a text message. My competent, independent daughter and now my friend.

She is happily with child and in another 4 months or so we will be celebrating the birth of my baby's baby. That thought is both strange and exciting! I already see the Mom genes kicking in so I get to enjoy a whole new facet of my daughter. Hang on; we're in for a wild and bumpy ride! LY Mom

TIS THE SEASON

MUSINGS --

In the wonderful world of SPAM I was given the opportunity to receive a letter from Santa. Hmmm - maybe I should. If he/she doesn't deliver I may have lawsuit potential. I'm sure there is someone who would take the case - suing Santa. There are so many new lawyer types being churned out these days, they are eager for business. Contingency basis of course.

Another wonderful week on the legislative scoreboard. Jobs and improved economy - 0; more social bs and things "who cares" 47. Let's see in one bill they managed to trump not only the Civil Service Commission but continue the campaign to bust unions by making a bonafide benefit no longer subject to bargaining...Wha? I do believe wages, benefits, working conditions are the actual REASON the union bargains.

Workers comp changes got hammered through that will make it horribly difficult for injured workers to get benefits. Explain this logic. One of the changes is if an injured person becomes well enough to take a job that pays more than their wc benefit they will have their benefits cut! Now understand, no job actually has to exist nor does it matter if you can get the job you just get your benefits cut. No sweat though, they said you can go to court. Well that solves the excess lawyer issue.Understand I used to administer wc bennies as part of my Personnel Director days. Trust me 99% are legit, are handled and people come back to work. I went after the 1% and won usually. That takes work and perseverance-everything cannot be legislated away folks...

Another mind-boggling, economy saving bill floated out there is to not allow hospitals to order mandatory flu shots for staff. Another wha?? If Grandma gets sick heaven forbid she has to go into a hospital where the biggest threat is from personnel who are already understaffed and working too many hours. Brilliant.

Now one potential bill I like is the idea that they cannot referendum-proof some lame brained legislation by attaching at least a $1 implementation fee to it. That means we the people, do not have the ability to question their judgement through a vote. Neat huh? Used by both sides for years. Time to get rid of this. If our overpaid part-timers really believe in what they are proposing, then let us have a chance to decide. Yeah, snowball's chance in Hades that one gets passed.

Oh and in the spirit of the Holidays a potential use of the "found" money in Lansing was to provide heating assistance to the less fortunate. Ooops, can't miss our extended winter break--so that bill may languish until after the holidays. Well it really gets cold in late January anyway. Hmmm, tax increases on the middle class, pensioners and teachers, ending of tax credits for mortgage costs and charitable contributions zoom through the legislature like roller skates on lard, but something to actually helps citizens not so much. Bah Humbug. Scrooge would be proud.

EXERCISE THIS!

Thought I'd fill everyone in on my little cast of characters at the fitness club I hit every day. Anyone who exercises on a regular basis knows the extreme, and painful, boredom that sets in as you do your interminable reps or coast the elliptical. You try not to watch the second hand of the clock go around (much like Lamaze timing contractions) but you can't help yourself.

First I do not wear a different designer outfit each time-same old crappy black shorts a couple of black t-shirts taking turns, hair in a knot which is usually soaked by the time I get done. Unlike the matchie-matchie outfit girls with their weird ceiling-pointing pony tails and the silly band wrapped around their heads (though I've seen that particular style on the street-go figure). I just sweat into a towel I carry around. In other words by the end of 45 minutes I am generally hot, sweaty and whatever the opposite of ravishing would be but done! At which time I put my "walking" tennies back on which look absolutely identical to my gymmie shoes to walk the 10 steps to the car.

To amuse myself and stay motivated I have named several members who stand out and note their antics. Helps mollify the pain I guess. Better than dwelling on the numerous times I have been struck by bars and smacked by machines when I don't move fast enough. Always a couple of interesting bruises in odd places.

Anyway there is "Naval Contemplater". Sits at each machine like she's worshipping at a druid altar between each movement staring off into space. Consequently just taking up space and holding me up. I looked one time and there is no weight on the machine -10 lbs-piffle. So what is so fascinating between strokes? The naval obviously.

Next there is grunt thump. Over-estimates capability and lifts too much weight which results in a very disturbing grunting sound and the subsequent smash-down of the equipment (plus does not wipe down the machine afterwards- yuck).

Next are the Thumpers. They attack the treadmills like they are racing up the steps in a Rocky movie. The crashing and banging makes you wonder if the machine is coming apart. Totally drowns out the TV news I'm trying to watch. But not a problem for them because they all wear little ear thingees-no doubt cranked up to 100 decibels to ACTUALLY HEAR ABOVE THE FOOT STOMP PARADE.

On weekends we have "stinky man". OMG. As soon as you walk in the entire room smells like, well you know. Though last week stinky man smelled like cinnamon BO-perhaps in a nod to the Christmas season. Nauseating but interesting.

But the worst is Chatty Cathy. From the time she walks in until I leave it's yap yap yap yap. If I wanted to hear someone talking at that time in the morning, I'd, well I don't know, because I don't want to hear someone talking at that time in the morning. I have literally seen this person move from where she is to another machine just so she can yap yap yap to someone. Now that's just sad. Needless to say she doesn't come around me.

Of course for the sake of honesty I have to wonder how my exercising buddies refer to me....

RED (or BLUE) LETTER DAY

Today Joseph Paul Robel made his presence known. Though he has another 4 1/2 months of growing time he definitely made an impact when he had his close-up ala ultrasound. His father proudly posted the news to the delight of all.

Welcome Little Joe. You'll be with us in no time!

CHAPTER 6 - FINALE (I HOPE)

Don't look now, but I do believe the massive "house-lift" has been completed and before the first snowfall no less! All my beeaacching and impatience has been rewarded. Oh yeah, now I get to pay the bill. Oh well.

Our fancy new porch lights that are motion and light activated played a little peek a boo on all Hallows, refusing to turn on at the appointed witching hour of 6 pm-too much daylight. Which caused the early "trick/treaters" to turn tail. Dressed like a vampire and afraid of a little light? Oh yeah, I guess a vampire would be. I literally had to stand on the porch waving goodies to get the first ones to come back and collect their prizes. Since I only get about a dozen the whole night I didn't want to miss half of them. More candy for the Burt man to eat. We got his favorite kinds to keep me out of the bowl. Working so far but he does take his time.

Leading into a rant of sorts. Where the heck are all the kids? Is everybody too afraid of the remote possibilities of poison apples ala Snow White to let their precious trick or treat? Bummer. Of course that fits right in with the latest "r" topic "they think is important" for the week. They are trying to pass a bill to make the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance mandatory each school morning. Huh. Next they will mandate brown shirts as acceptable school dress along with practice marches and heils to the.... well you get the drift. Again how does all this hoopla add to strengthening Michigan's economy and producing jobs?

The men and women of the armed services yesterday and today fought and died to give us all choices and freedom. Why is there a dedicated group trying to run our lives and privacy into the ground under the guise of doing what's best for us. Right. What if all these old men called up another war and nobody showed up? Hmmm

And as the party of NO is ranting and carrying on about every issue or jobs bill that comes from the Prez I saw a little article tucked into an inner page of the newspaper. The National Health Care law has already saved Seniors over one billion dollars in health care costs for prescriptions by closing the so-called donut hole. That is not to mention all the jobless, college-educated unemployed younger adults who are able to keep medical until age 26. Golly, maybe if we just let something work or fail, we might learn something instead of just saying no. Makes you think, I hope.

Nice to know brain and body still work and I'm still ranting as November marks my entry into the 6th decade.

SURPRISED? NOT

So the legislature finally had the guts to pass an anti-bullying law, after 10 years. Understand the term - bullying-there is no positive twist to that word. It is wrong wrong wrong to beat down on the defenseless, the disabled, the different - CHILDREN! So what did our illustrious "where are the jobs" politicos pass? Something that says, Oh yes, bullying is wrong unless it is a religious or christian belief statement? What? Did I miss something here?

Again, slowlyyyyy....bullying - bad; demeaning, nasty, hurtful, hateful comments that are hiding behind a cross - also bad. Isn't there something about a Christian embracing all of God's children. Who are we to pass judgment on someone different and make their life a living hell because of that difference. These are CHILDREN! They cannot walk away from their school, they cannot get in their car and leave, they cannot report them to HR, they cannot bury them with their money or influence, find another job, another town, another life. Turn the other cheek and they will rip that one out too-because they can.

Oh yes, they offered an excuse. "We think this is all-encompassing. School districts need to be able to pass their own rules," autonomy and all that. Right but you can take away school funding, bust their unions, fire teachers, force mandatory changes to retirement and health insurance at will. Excuse me. Is it only me or are we pointing out the emperor's lack of clothing, again. I guess it felt good to do something to get this annoying and bereft father who lost his son to suicide because he couldn't take the abuse anymore, off their backs. This was the best they could do? Don't get a sprained shoulder from patting yourself on the back any time soon.

P.S. The cowards also kept the part about cyber-bullying out of the bill. What century are you out-of-touch idiots living in????? Ever heard of something going viral? We can only hope your clout keeps your child from ever going through the torture these victims have had to endure. But then you might possibly understand it, but I doubt it...

CHAOS CONTROLLED (well almost) CHAPTER 5

Ok, things are painstakingly, agonizingly, pantingly, excruciatingly close to completion. Chaos slowing down; results starting to turn heads. Though I believe the neighbors are happy to see that crappy looking roof finally wearing its Sunday best. A chapeau of spartan green, glistening linen dress, shiny new lights and a porch-ZAP, BAM, POP, OOPS, not yet. My new pics reveal beauty and a "wtf"? kind of moment.

Siding guys took FOREVER to finish the project. Threats of rain (rumors, even), 9 to 5 days, pulled off for other rush jobs and no weekend work wrecked havoc with my personal agenda and longing for completion. But I cannot argue with the results. Anal impatient me would never have lovingly wrapped each little corner with such precision and passion to an over the top result. But I do appreciate the look. Our fear was not getting the job done before winter snow halted all progress. Oh yes, there is one minor issue - the "freakin' gutters aren't on yet!!!

We are out doing sun dances and sending semi-nasty messages to the contractor about covering our precious new look with giant commercial sized gutters. Although awesome they will cover up the pretty white fascia and soffit that was totally replaced because it looked so nice to all be the same color. Ah well. Also added was another layer of attic insulation and house wrap. Peace to any unsuspecting raccoon who managed to sneak in and take up residence up there. You "ain't never" getting out alive, you nasty bandit-masked marauder - MEHHHAAA!

Porch is going through final face lift with matching brick all the way around. Should be able to move an elephant over that thing or at least a piano that doesn't get played anymore. Anybody want it you can have it if you want to pick it up and carry it off over our sturdy new porch-no scratches please.

Yesterday was rather hysterical. I'm glad that State was playing late. COMMERCIAL BREAK --Shout-out to our awesome Spartans!END COMMERCIAL BREAK It was the clash of the contractors as they all converged at the same time. Porch people flinging dirt, roof/siding contractor critiquing all projects. We got our little punch list going and everybody's cool. He said I needed to up the nasty on my phone messages - I wasn't too bad just feisty. Golly most people call me the B-word. I love construction guys!

PASSING OBSERVATIONS

I feel like Andy Rooney today.

Don't you think it's funny that the same bank we bailed out to the tune of $45 billion (B of A) now wants to take a monthly $5 fee from each of its debit card customers because the gov't who bailed them out (meaning us) wants to limit their obscene profits on transactions? So to retain those obscene profits they will go back and charge the very ones who bailed them out the first time to recoup those obscene profits. Wow-Score! Or maybe it was the $11 million severance package EACH they paid two executives that were let go. Poor things. Most of us get a "you have 15 minutes to clean out your desk and leave". Don't let the screen door hit you on the way out. Score Two!

Since you don't make diddly-squat on your savings now and you do the bank's work by using online banking and debit cards, I am having a fire sale on mattresses if you would like to go old school with your money. No transaction fees required to access your own funds!

Isn't it funny that those in charge were elected (ha ha)to create jobs and strengthen Michigan's economy. Instead time has been spent arguing over a bridge, demonizing teachers, curtailing medical freedom & privacy, stripping bargaining rights, proposing right to work (which trust me only helps the employer), taking $470 from every public school student & putting it into the pockets of corporations, taxing pensioners, reducing payments to the working poor, attacking universities, etc. Keep looking, but I don't see a stronger economy or jobs appearing. When does that start? Rhetoric vs. reality bites you know.

Isn't it funny that the Iraq war is now ending as proposed by Bush, carried out by Obama and the "R"s are screaming - Wha? Is somebody or several somebodies losing their profits over there or their protection to collect their profits over there?

Isn't it funny that when the great trickle down man Reagan proposed closing loopholes and having the rich pay their taxes like the rest of us there was nary a peep of class warfare. Now when the same is proposed by our current President the "R"s are screaming -Wha? I'm no expert, but seems to me it is much easier to take the taxes out of someone who has to receive a paycheck from an employer than someone who has "stock options" or other means of receiving their compensation don't you think?

The 99% do have a point. When so many are suffering the loss of jobs, homes and savings while the 1% who were the major source of the meltdown are still in their homes and jobs receiving the benefits and bonuses they always have, based on a bailout from us, one has to wonder. I am starting to think this has been the plan all along -to keep the masses poor and ignorant; just saying....

PROTEST JUSTIFIED

If some are still struggling with why people are gathering in protest and demanding redress or at least justice I will relate a story that I had a small part in today. A small local company had called for assistance from our office. They have been held accountable for a training issue out of state but need our help in mitigating their problems. In all good faith they paid the employer they were working for to take care of their issue. The employer took the money and never took care of the issue. They then get notice that they still owe, they still have not resolved the issue and need to do so yesterday. What happened? They are now out of the money they paid and are still on the hook for the original problem. The employer meanwhile used the money for their own issues or profit-who knows.

Here is the moral of the story if you are not disgusted already. They must continue to work for this employer and move on to another job because they "have no choice" if they want to keep their business, pay their bills and feed their families. I don't know what you call it, but I call it slavery. Silent, non-violent protest is the least that we can do.

DIFFERENT TYPE OF CHAOS (CHAPTER 4)

Ok-not a lot to report this week as, yes monsoon time. One day of work from the siding contingency. Odd shaped and oddly placed plastic wrap and insulation sheets. Hopefully things will get better as the prediction is awesome Indian Summer type weather for the next 2 weeks.

Extra costs for extra insulation in the attic and possibly replacing all the fascia, because it just won't look nice against the new siding-sigh. Came home tonight and not a whole lot of work done-one dormer that I fussed about looking perfect and a chip out of the back door that will have to be fixed. Call the company owner who complains I haven't called for two days so what's up with that. So to punish him, or reward him, not sure which, I give him my litany of beefs for the day. Hey if you're going to half rebuild you house and spend a ton of money, they get to listen and make it right!

However, the weekend included a great breakfast with our beautiful, preggers daughter and some great conversation. She is so calm, confident and beautiful I am in awe. What is it about pregnancy that makes a women show her true colors. I have no doubt that she will be an awesome Mother. Our grandchild or grandchildren are very lucky people and in very good hands! My job will be to provide the silly and relief for their Mother! Reporting for duty!

Funny she pointed out last week that in the almost 29 years she has known me, she has never seen me react quite like I did when she announced the big news. Surprise to me too! I have had to wade through the mud, the blood and the beer in my line of work and always kept my cool. Might have been a little testier when I got home, but I did what I had to do without getting, at least overtly, emotionally involved. It doesn't mean that it didn't hurt but I had to do what I had to do. I earned a label of "cold" because of it, but I'm ok with that. I hope it made a difference.

CHAOS WITH A PURPOSE (CHAPTER 3)

Monday -lst day of roofing! Yay! Monsoon weather. Boo! However Tuesday all systems go. Crew labors 3 full days 10-12 hours at a crack. Demo, fixing, nailing, debris everywhere! Perfect. Noisy as heck too.
#1 - As they know this is a "MIOSHA" house, we are assured that they are up-to-date on fall protection. The B-man notices right off, that bags are opened and sparkling new harnesses and ropes emerge to the light of day. Should I apologize I saved a life today? Nope.

#2 - They bring boards to do repairs which would probably take a normal man two hands and a lot of man grunts to carry. One of the workers hefts it in one hand and laying it over his shoulder, clambers up a ladder-no sweat. Scary to run into these guys on a dark night eh?

#3 - As I get home each night I inspect ongoing activities which of course leads to 30-45 minute conversation with the "bouncy" young foreman. He explains, presents,preens and keeps repeating his commitment to doing it right aching for approval. I indulge slightly which leads to a life story and family issues. But all in all, he's doing a good job.

At one point I mention his worker bees would probably like to quit for the night wherein he shows his power that he's the boss. Finally get in the house where the B-man says, "I walk around several times a day to see the work and they don't say diddly. You get there and and it's yap, yap yap". Believe me it's not my ideal after working all day to schlep around with my heavy bag and heels walking around the house each night to see all the progress eagerly being shown to me. But then for 37 years, that is pretty much what I do. I talk to worker bees and find out what they're doing and how, so occupational hazard. Though the B-man would point out I'm a control freak, so I probably wouldn't miss the end of the day review anyway.

#4 - In fact the last day of the job, they were supposed to be gone by 3 or 4 and were still there when I got home. Burt came out to say, ha too bad, you didn't get away before the "boss" showed up. Well you'd be surprised what you find out when you act slightly disapproving and you're a woman. They don't think you get it at all, so they blab a little too much! LOL.

#5 - They will cheerfully haul away all the debris, hang your hummingbird feeder back up and move your flower pots back. Odd though, they bundled all the aluminum up together and took it away in a separate truck. Hmmmmm wonder if I can cut a deal on how much the crew made on that particular transaction.

Meanwhile the concrete guy came back and poured a foundation which hardened in 2 hours! Then his worker bee spent the next couple of hours filling the new hole with the most sand I've ever seen since I was at Lake Michigan. If a cat makes a potty out of that, I do not want to see that particular cat-it would be roughly lion sized.

Next week - insulation and siding starts! Yay! Monsoons predicted for several days. BOO!

FALLING INTO CONTROLLED CHAOS (Chapter 2)

Don't you just love an oxymoron like my title? Well that certainly describes destruction-oops construction which actually does require destruction. Case in point. Chimney guy finally calls after fire lit under his rear by our roofing guy. I have learned, I make frequent "so what's our progress" calls. Chimney guy takes a look, crawls inside, outside, under, over and through and decides to tear down the entire chimney and build it back up!

Humorous side story. I get home the first night and wander outside to see the scaffold set up and the brand new chimney that the B-man is eager to point out. Apparently it was a family affair as chimney guy's two kids and wife show up late in the day to "watch the show". Apparently they supply words of encouragement, applause and collect any checks that get distributed. (No, really they were a nice young family). Anyway the word is out that they are working on a MIOSHA house. He asks Burt the next day when he comes to finish up if I saw the job and the scaffold. B, always cool, says yes. Dying, he asks well did she say anything? B says yes, she had a few comments. The chimney guy berates himself, "oh yeah I should have done thus and so". See they KNOW what they are supposed to do, they just don't always do it. Anyway nobody died, nothing collapsed and we have a beautiful new chimney.

2nd case. Concrete guy shows up, spends 10 minutes and writes up a quote, complaining about the price of concrete, small load, comments about his wife and her landscaping issues, etc., etc. Otherwise he seemed competent if a little hectic. Not feeling it, listening to other interested parties and checking Angie's list, I call concrete guy #2 because I would like to see if this quote makes sense. We're not talking the Taj Mahal here. Note: chimney guy had recommended a concrete guy who, you guessed it, never responded to my phone call.

Anyway, Concrete guy #2 comes out same night fresh from a job in Saginaw, and I do mean fresh and dripping, but he didn't come in the house so no prob. He's a little talkative (what is it about these concrete guys?) and offers all kinds of different ideas and ways we can go rather than one. I've learned so I tell him I have another quote, but no you don't get to know what it is. He comes out again, after a job in E. Lansing and digs around the porch to see what is under there(wow good idea, also he didn't believe Burt when he told him what was under the porch). Then he leans on his shovel and kind of chit chats.

Meanwhile, concrete guy #1 thinks he has the job so he places a sign in front, I swear, between the time I went to exercise at 5:15 am and 6:00 am. Then he calls the B-man & says he's ready to tear out the porch 'cause they have an open day. Ahh we have not signed any contracts, no handshakes made and we had said we weren't ready as we were coordinating roof, siding etc, etc. Burt says no so concrete guy wants to talk to me. I get call at work-great. Tell the dude, no not ready to tie the knot on this one, will let you know.

Concrete guy #2 comes out 3rd time, gives me worse case scenario cost as asked and it's lower than #1 and he is throwing in taking out the shrubbery. More chit chat and we say let's do it, but no money until someone actually shows up! Told you I've learned a few things. Bottom line, I hide concrete guy #1's sign and concrete guy #2 rips out the porch the next day so siding guys know where their pieces end & porch begins (not explained by concrete guy #1). I get home to the controlled chaos listed above and the B-man is out there in ripped jeans and work shirt rolling out caution tape and generally running, and enjoying, the operation. Boys do like destruction and neat toys like bobcats and concrete busters.

Anyway, roofing scheduled for this week-notwithstanding the monsoon expected Monday, so we shall all cross our proverbial fingers!

AUTUMN ALREADY?

The Committee (Kay, Marc, Lo) plus the young committee (Kris) put together an awesome 40 year anniversary party for the Burt man and I. Good friends, good food, much laughter and not enough wine! I should have remembered our friends are all winos. In fact a gift from the Claus' underlined the point with a bottle from "now" Pinot Gris, and a bottle from "then" Mateus. Oh yes, we thought we were on the cutting edge of sophistication in the early 70's when we graduated from good ole Boone's Farm to the urbane taste of the Portuguese red rose. Ahh heck it still tastes good, if not a little sweet.

I contributed several bottles of white, red and bubbly, but we ran out quickly. There was a late showing of the infamous 25th anniversary video narrated intentionally or not, by one photographer Larry Mc. Anyone who knows Larry understands. Hilarious as amateur productions tend to be. All of the family were there on the Sweet side, including our Wisconsin contingency-Nic, Caryn, Aly and Joe; and representatives of all branches of the Ide clan. Towards the end of the gifts and crazy cards it was almost like the story "The Gift of the Magi" Burt presents me with a ruby ring that he went through many hassles and gyrations to obtain and I, presented him with his gift of a ruby/diamond tie tac that I went through, yep, many hassles and gyrations, to obtain it on time. Then the story got even more interesting....

To me September, the start of the Fall season has always seemed a time of renewal - faster pace, crisper air. It feels like the beginning rather the mournful herald of winter's dark and cold. The colors are more vivid, the skies are bluer, and the feeling of everything coming back to life is closer to me than any other time of year. Our anniversary, my sister's birthday, the beginning of the school year and now something else that I will always remember about September.

As I left for my workout yesterday morning I looked over to the right and saw Mama doe and her twin fawns staring at me for the longest moment, until they ran in mock fear leaping over hedges and disappearing towards the river. Butterflies, both yellow & white(that I call Mothers and Daughters) were bombarding me all day wherever I went. Then my daughter handed me a special gift from her and her husband. I was puzzled as I unwrapped a small picture frame with a rather unusual black & white design in it and one word - BABY.

Yes my beautiful daughter and son-in-law presented us with the news of the impending birth of our first grandchild. Love is in the house little J-Bird. Thank you.

TOO LITTLE TOO LATE (Chapter 1)

Strange phenomenon over the past 3 years. We have been trying to get our roof redone, and if we like you how about siding too? Not jobs that I would think desperately seeking contractors would turn their noses up. And a cash deal. Hmmm. What could go wrong?

Contractor #1 - Comes over, does the walk-around,takes measurements and NEVER CALLS BACK!

Contractor #2 - Several months, or a year later we get a call from someone who used to work for contractor #1 and he asks "hey did you ever hear back from contractor #1?" Now how did he know that? Hmmm. He is now working for Contractor #2 so he asks if he can bid-sure, we innocently agree. Comes over, does the walk-around, takes measurements and NEVER CALLS BACK FOR 8 MONTHS! When we say no thanks, he is confused! 8 months for a call-back and I'm going to use you for potentially sensitive and crucial changes to my house? Right. He is offended. I swear you can't make this stuff up!

Things mosey merrily along but, we really need this done! We do get flyers in the door from "drive-by" contractors offering your roof done, no questions asked-we restrain ourselves from biting.

Contractor #3-see him working on my street-roofing no less. I stop and ask if we can get a quote, or a visit, or a howdy do. Sure, sure. 2 weeks later he stops by and says did we get a call from anyone? Uh, no. We got the routine down by now. He says he will talk to his partner who does the quoting. 2 weeks later finally get a call-set up appt for the visit, walk-around, measurements. Bets are made by various interested parties. Another 2 weeks and several calls and I call...

Contractor #4! He visits immediately, walks around takes measurements and....

Contractor #3 finally calls back and wants to meet 2 hours later. Really. I'm at work, Burt man is out of town. I say can you come Friday night-No, Saturday-No. Ok does he want the job or not.

Contractor #4 visits "on our schedule" and lays out the plan, quote and credentials. Success, maybe-I've been burned before. Dare I hope? Gave Contractor #3 a chance to get back with us then finally pull the trigger and make deal with #4. I leave a message for #3, as he never answers his phone, and tell him we're going with a different contractor. Calls back in 60 seconds (we timed it) and he is all upset-I let it go to voice mail (good will on my part now over-you know my patience limit). He is all up about "I thought you would call me when you were available". Huh? Us keep begging him to meet with him, again rightttttt.

Sign deal with Contractor #4 and sign goes in front yard. Fingers crossed!

Oh yeah Contractor #4 gave us the number of one of his subs to tuck point (pick mortar out) and fix our chimney before the roof is done. Yep, you guessed it, they won't call us back!!!!! WTF?

Hope springs eternal, we are sitting here waiting for an 11:30 call or visit from the concrete guy working down the street as we also need work done on our porch. Anyone want any of the action about whether he shows up?

AUGUST FLIGHT STORIES

Well update on the HumBee marauders continues. We are up to about 4 of the little beasties feeding at the sugar tube. Juice is going down fast. I think the original HumVee HumBee has slowed down a tad. He is still the little piggy running others off their perch. Some have learned to hover and sip before the kamikaze owner comes flashing down with murder in his heart. He doesn't even let the little female get too long a perch before he knocks her off. His latest ploy is to hide in the bush below and like a great white shark come zooming straight up to dislodge the interloper. Hilarious!

Second flight story. While breakfasting at a local eatery before our morning errands a whole slew of corvette clubbers take over the restaurant. We already had our food, so I'm cool. Heading out to the parking lot, however we see the rather startling scene of a classic car rolling gracefully backwards towards the parked cars. At some point during its escape we noted no driver, short or otherwise at the wheel! Holding our breath, we watch it glide to a stop mere inches from the nearest parked car. Gear-slipping, yes, but apparently the frame is perfect as it took a very direct route backwards.

My safety background kicks in. We decide the car's probably locked and if we touch it, it will probably be enough to start it rolling again and actually cause damage to other cars. So I scoot back in to the restaurant to try to find the hapless parker. I should have realized my mistake, but I headed for the "chevy" clubbers and said "is anyone driving the classic Chevy Chevelle, cause it's taking an unapproved glide through the parking lot." Condescending smiles and negative head shakes greet my announcement. Apparently they are CORVETTE chevy lovers, not classically restored Chevelles. Cruised the restaurant looking for a worried patron, and nobody bit. Having done my civic duty, we carried on and out. Probably the person was too embarrassed in that crowd to admit they liked an old muscle car over the sleekly sexier classic corvette. Ah well.

IS IT OVER YET? SUMMER THAT IS.

So many things to rant about. Stock market continues to bounce as traders take quick profits. Love how they toy with our futures like that. No real progress on the "jobs, jobs, jobs" agenda the "r's" ran campaigns on. Ahh not happening boys and girls. Though the crackpots that keep climbing out of the primordial slime to throw their prospective chapeaus in the ring are amusing, if not downright scary! So I have an idea, let's vote for them again. Definition of insanity I believe.

There is such a frenzy on putting a negative spin on everything they want to pick on the prez for going on vacation??? Ahh the bushman took a month at a time, since I suppose technically he wasn't running anything anyway. That kind of proves it I think. If you still don't believe go back and watch the tape of him reading to the kiddies when all "hell" broke loose in New York and he just sat there because he really didn't know what to do-a show of being in charge would have been nice. And hello, (don't you hate valley girl slang) do you really think the prez isn't connected six ways from Friday no matter where he/she is-this ain't horse and buggy days folks. Geez.

Now let's start passing laws on "social issues", huh? Jobs, jobs, jobs remember and stay the hockey puck out of my bedroom and doctor's office. Independents, older people, young people and women do vote don't you know. Though the new rules on showing six pieces of ID, stating your "party" to vote and not allowing students access to voting in their college town smacks of a conspiracy of fear the "r's" have of losing their power grab status. Everybody needs to start showing some respect for the intelligence of the people they represent instead of telling us what is good for us. Two ears and one mouth for a reason folks. Whew-that rant was cathartic. I feel better.

I AM NOT AMUSED SAYETH THE JUDGE

Well the Burt-man had his day in court as jury member number 4.(you're always number 1 with me!). Anyway a simple domestic abuse charge-though I suppose you can never call that simple, managed to last all day until after 6 o'clock. What is amusing or tragic depending upon your point of view, the jury was out 20 minutes, did one paper vote and came back in "guilty". Apparently that could have been decided several hours earlier.

The first 3 hours were spent reviewing 7 medical records by prosecutor, defense and one witness. Couldn't you have stipulated those pieces of evidence before you tied everybody up all morning? As I told the boy when he left, remember justice is swift. Especially since I was waiting for him to get home to go to an event with me. His take on the whole thing was pretty much everyone appeared to be lying except the cop. As each witness did their utmost to destroy any previously submitted testimony it became "circus-like".

He enjoyed the judge who liked to cut to the chase when the defense went into long-winded hash and rehash of every question. At one point the judge said "you're going to ask her this" "her answer is that" move on. WTF? Was the lawyer getting paid by the hour? Oh yeah, he was. LOL.

NOT SO AMUSING

This picture illustrates why universal health care is needed. This is an actual picture from our break room at work on behalf of a student intern with no benefits. It is asking fellow workers to drop in their change to help a child fighting cancer. Working parents should not have to rely on charity to save their daughter's life.

JULY AMUSING

Busy July makes you wonder what is so horny about October when all these were conceived? July 16 is the paternal unit's 87th. In descending order - Saint Burt and Dr Mark attained Social Security status while young Jamie is only 9 months shy of terrorizing the neighborhood when he gets his learner's permit. That's just on the Sweet side with a couple more on the Ide side as well.

The occasion(s) will be suitably noted by our usual mix of potent libations, liar's poker and general hilarity marked by nasty and extremely judgmental (though witty) comments on old age. Works for us with paybacks both brutal and expected.

JULY MUSINGS

Ever notice how at a certain level of money, income, etc. people suddenly become more miserly? I am not sure at what level that is-I'm apparently not there yet. But at some point a fear arises that someone is going to take it from them and a conservative philosophy takes over. It's mine-mine-mine. No one else should have it. Yet, charity begins at home and those who have the most can also give the most.

I know I don't understand why we continue to give handouts to people and countries who hate us and laugh at us behind our backs but feel such loathing and, lets call it what it is, fear of those at home in our own backyards who we are afraid are going to take what we have. They haven't earned it, it's mine.

One friend put it this way-people still believe they can be part of the rich and elite and as long as they think that, they are willing to trample others to get there. The sad truth is, yes, there is that possibility through much hard work and a probably a lot of luck, but most of us will just be what we are reliant on our jobs and savings to see us through. Yet we continue to idolize the 1% who, trust me, are laughing at us poor saps who continue to defend "their" lifestyles in hopes of achieving the same.

Put it another way. What did you do with your tax break? Spent it on necessities and paying off some bills. What did the 1% do? Another yacht or off shore account. Not condemning just observing. We need to understand this and start standing up for those who have no voice and influence. There's a lot of us in that 99% if we only understood our power.

LEADERS et al

I'm just one opinion. But don't we want leaders who ultimately make the decisions and carry the responsibility? From the President to the business owner, to the coach to the first line supervisor I believe that is what we get paid for. Yes, take other opinions, do your research, trust your gut, then make a decision. And be prepared to sit back and take the criticism from the 20-20 hindsight armchair quarterbacks who don't have the ability, or possibly the guts, to make any decision. At least not one where they bear the sole responsibility. Hang together so no one can say you alone did that. I believe that's called courage whether it be in the workplace, on a camping trip, in a crisis, privately or on a worldwide stage.

Dithering doesn't get the job done or the battle won. Sometimes even when the decision is to do nothing.

SUMMERTIME & THE LIVING IS BREEZY

June, one of the prime boating months and the Burt man gets a jury summons for the entire month! The Court eager to start ruining his summer right away, calls him in June 7.

We were pushing for him to wear his totally patriotic red, white & blue Tabasco American flag shirt, but he opted for quiet brown plaid instead. Apparently every form of dress is acceptable right up to the dude who was 30 minutes late wearing yellow and white beach gear and flip flops.

The "instructions" indicated proper garb as being casual-something you would wear to an interview or church. Huh? Now that's like receiving a wedding invite that specifies guest wear semi-dressy casual cocktail bathing attire.

Anyway he won the lottery right away and has an invite to a party on July 26. One day-no muss, no fuss, do not pass go and do not collect $200. Not sure if I can reveal his "voir dire" (look it up!)until after the trial so stay tuned. Needless to say no one in the courtroom laughed but I found it priceless!

MAY DAY MAY DAY

That's a prophetic title. Love things that have two different meanings.

Yes, the budget was done in record time. First time in 50 years. Two thoughts.

1) What will they do all summer now that their main work is done this highly effective full-time paid legislature- damage control I imagine.

2) Budget can be done in record time if you balance it on the backs who have the most to lose and the smallest ability to be heard. Plus graveling down or refusing to hear any opposition positions. This is democracy? But by golly, the promises were kept for business. Kudos

RANDOM THOUGHTS

I probably should blog more often. Practice and all that. I remember Mother telling me, every uttering does not have to be O'Henry worthy. Well when you're anal of course it does.

I remember writing to my nephew Nic when he went to college. I would just sit and write nonsense about everyday things and he said there was a certain (warped) audience who would query on whether he heard from his crazy Aunt Sheila lately so they could hear the letters. I'm sure dramatic flair was utilized to emphasis my more outrageous ravings. An occasional check would also be enclosed which of course added to the interest level but I do think he enjoyed the letters too. There may be a market in writing nonsense that I should probably research. No worse than the "pap" that goes for news these days.

Isn't it interesting that multi-billion dollar corporations (read oil)are making the case that they need their tax incentives to continue their, oh I don't know, billion dollar quarterly profits or prices will go up (further) and jobs will be lost. Huh? Isn't business profit supposed to be used to increase product, fund new technology, expand the business etc? When did a work ethic and plowing your profits back into the business turn into government subsidies to make money? Yet certain groups want to condemn the poor and disenfranchised who are looking for some assistance as well from circumstances that were, in most cases, beyond their control? Odd that.

Middle east spring may be turning into the middle east winter Ben Stein says. Remember what happens to any of my brothers and sisters wherever they are happens to us all. Like it or not we are one world and too many petty, self-centered interests are battling for supremacy. If you ask most people they just want to live, love and thrive without espousing one radical cause or another. Unfortunately the ones who passionately care about dominating others seem to be winning.

And when did we ask those we elected to cram social and religious agendas down our collective throats. I believe you all ran on jobs, jobs and more jobs. Where the heck are the jobs, regulations against those who drove us into this economic nightmare and the help for America you promised? Hopefully our memories are long.

A young man who admittedly through his own fault, loses the ability to walk in a tragic accident, becomes an inspiration to an engineering professor and students at his university. He "walks" to his graduation and accepts his diploma. That's what its all about.

AT WHAT COST?

Well joyous news I guess. The State budget will be approved early and way ahead of deadline. I will admit that is an improvement. However how transparent a budget can it be when there are only two bills? One for Education and one for everything else. Interesting.

Though I realize I am not an expert I have to wonder. Doesn't that mean you can move funding all over without oversight, without debate, without interference? Appears "less than transparent". And since the chairs are stacked with questionable beings (lobbyists, old cronies from 8-10 yrs ago) and you know, favors must be paid back, do you think the "people" most affected will have any say or influence? Not "bloody" likely.

Let the games begin.

IS IT SPRING YET?

Hey I love Michigan and all its seasons, just not in the same week!!! It's crazy carrying an ice scraper, umbrella and sunglasses everywhere. Anyway been bugging the Burt man to get my hummer (hummingbird) feeder up to see if my buddy Humvee makes an appearance. Hmmm bugging about a bird feeder. I guess it's related. I could say badgering but then that introduces another species.

Anyway despite our best efforts to destroy the environment, my daffodils have come up for the record 29th year and the tulips are cautiously expanding and furiously retreating as the temperature plays havoc with their colorful destiny. The boat has made it from storage to the garage, but hitting the lake is a whole other story. The grass is lush except where the moles have made merry.

I believe we are heading directly into summer - do not pass GO - do not collect spring dollars. But darn it, we don't care what the thermometer says, shorts and sandals are in evidence everywhere. Now the young people I get, they wear them all winter. But the chick I saw today was over 65 unless I miss my guess. Funny how the older I get the more age I have to put on it to describe an "older" person. LOL. At any rate, ewwwwhhh.

JUST SAYIN'

What a joyous week. Michigan House passed a budget that taxes seniors and the poor, takes from schools, does away with property tax and charitable credits while giving big business a huge tax break. Now I know it's been since the early 70's since I took college econ, but I do believe I remember the old supply and demand scenario described by Professor MendelScleck. When you tax the crap out of the widget buyers, they don't buy widgets. Instead tax breaks allow huge bonuses and large salaries for short-time CEO's who do nothing to improve the bottom line. But apparently it's all the fault of the workers or the pensioners or the poor. It had nothing to do with Wall Street and the Banks greedily absconding with all the money (which funded the pensions btw) or large businesses run into the ground by inept management. Again basic economics says the company deserves to go under if it is not run efficiently. New economics apparently is strip the company of its assets, pay the top couple of folks and blame the workers. Sad part is, "we the people" are buying into it that it's all our fault and hating on each other. Hmmmmm

For 40 years the r's have been saying cutting taxes will lead to jobs. Uh duhh, definition of stupidity "keep doing the same thing and expect different results". I'm no genius, but I do think cutting entitlements to special interests and lobbyists that benefit a few, chasing fraud and waste rather than assuming "everyone" is on the "take" and taxing services would be palatable and would involve "all of us" to participate in the cure. Oops too logical I guess.

LOVE & OTHER MUSINGS

Mother told me when I first got engaged. Love is easy to find. Staying in love is hard. Being in the throes of exciting romantic love I did not fully understand what she meant.

Now 40 years later I think I am beginning to understand.

JUST SHOOT ME

Opinion this week on the legislation presented this week on doing away with "no gun zones" - churches, schools, sporting venues, etc.

"Carrying to a sporting event, a street festival or school without incident appears overly optimistic. Police are highly schooled on when to draw their weapon and even they make mistakes. With sports fans threatening referees on a decision and parents physically attaching other parents at their children's events, I have to think there will be times when good judgment will probably not prevail."

NO APOLOGY

Heard something today that underlines what I have been thinking for quite awhile. I am so tired of our constant "glamorizing of ignorance" and putting down education and intellectual abilities. We truly need the best of us, the most intelligent, the most educated to help solve the problems of this world. And we need to quit putting down compassion and offering a hand up as un-American.

Are you listening SP and others of your ilk? Notoriety does not give you the right to have a worthwhile opinion on matters that are clearly above your level of intelligence and experience. Those getting the press are merely loud entertainment. Meanwhile the worthwhile people of the world are quietly going about their business making it better for us all. Thank you.