Is it just me or do others find it annoying when people mispronounce certain words or letters? I realize that sometimes it's just a regional thing, sometimes a region as small as 50 miles or less. But there is a tendency in this area not to pronounce "T". Really, it appears in the word, it is written in the word but people just don't pronounce it.
Living in the Lansing Michigan area, we are inundated with advertisements and news about Michigan State University. Now I love MSU, I went there, my daughter graduated from there, much of my higher education money went there and I am a diehard fan. That being said when did we start being referred to as "Spar'ans". I kid you not. A sweet little boy I know is referred to as "Kea'on". Love him but I have a heck of a time when I try to say his name so rather than insult I just refer to him as their sweet little boy. But the words in question are SPARTAN and KEATON. I am probably the freak insisting on pronouncing words the way they are written so I take my grammar beatings in good spirits. But I just can't be a Spar'an no matter how hard I try.
And every time I hear that commercial promoting an emergency injection product for severe allergic reactions and the young man says "I just cou'n breathe" it drives me crazy! What happened to the "d and the "l" and the "t" for that matter. Are we just lazy or do we really just not know any better. Heck I love a sweet southern accent and the way they pronounce some words in one long syllable, but I think their habit of dropping the ending is merely weather-related. Such as, "Wha's happeninnnnnnn" That's cool. It's hot and sticky and people are economizing by not talking too much or too long. Perfectly logical.
And then there is the weird pronunciation of that mundane word WASH. In what world does one say WaRsh? Apparently this one. Warsh your clothes, drive on Warshington Avenue named after the famous lst President Geor Warshington. (SPELL CHECK is going crazy by the way). And it is a ROOF not a word that describes a dog barking.
I don't mind having a Midwestern accent, which according to my travels is the equivalent of no accent. I also base that on the fact that most newscasters sound like me, unless of course, it is the local weather person. They sound exactly like their hometown which also indicates that is probably the only part of the newscast locals really care to listen. Who can blame them? I'd much rather talk about the weather than the rest of what passes for news these days myself.
So warsh your ruff and hang your Spar'an flag out Lansing-it's football season!!
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Sunday, August 14, 2016
FASHION vs FUNCTION
Enjoying the Olympics for the past week I am struck by many things. Patriotism, athletes and countries getting along (well for the most part), the faces of those who will never win a medal but are overwhelmed by just making the original cut; the sheer emotion that accompanies every contest finale and medal ceremony. The world at its best if only for two weeks. However all that aside, I want to talk about the Olympic fashions.
I can't help but wonder what secret committee gets together to determine the mode of dress or undress for each sport? Oh sure I get that fashion might be aerodynamic or minimalist to assure victories that are measured in 1/100th of a second. All that drag from clothing will apparently make a huge difference. Which makes me wonder why the athletes don't just compete naked as the early Greeks did? In some sports that appears to be the intent - think beach volley ball and track and field. I felt my female self cringe "in those places that must not be named" seeing those tight little panties the lady runners wear. I was happy to note some wearing the long covering shirts and fan-like shorts similar to what I wear to work out in. But then I'm not being photographed by the world media or seeking to impress with my perfect abs, thighs and butt. Which might explain some of these outfits, hairdos and make-up of some ladies I see at the gym. Where are the cameras? I thought those were there for security.
But then why do the swimmers wear adult onesies that give them the appearance of chunky seals skimming through the water? Material that is lighter than skin? But runners wear the absolute minimum-wouldn't the same principles apply? Ain't science amazing? However as long as you look exactly like your counterparts apparently you belong and no one stands out as looking absolutely ridiculous.
I do appreciate the clever way the countries identify themselves on the backs of their athletes with the wonderful colors and designs representing their countries. And I love the nail polish on many of the American women showing red, white and blue in many different and creative ways.
The fans are just as colorful sporting America's colors in fine Olympic style. Where do they find these perfect items? Somebody is cleaning up nicely and I picture push carts on the streets of Rio carrying every type of patriotic wear for the 200+ countries represented.
Since I'm discussing the Olympics what is with these media types who keep stumbling over themselves discussing the female athletes? "She swims like a man" "She is the wife of a Chicago Bear linebacker" "She owes her success (2 gold medals for pete's sake) to her husband coach". Really? But the kicker was when the coach of the American women's basketball team was asked if he thought it looks bad that the American women are so dominating in the games? Since when did being the best at your sport leads to stupid questions about whether you're playing nice. That ranks right up there with the "everybody gets a trophy for just participating". Uh no. Winning is sweet, working hard and taking the gold is earned. They don't crown you the best unless you are. Try asking that question of Mike Krzysewski and watch him play a little "one-on-one" on your rear.
I can't help but wonder what secret committee gets together to determine the mode of dress or undress for each sport? Oh sure I get that fashion might be aerodynamic or minimalist to assure victories that are measured in 1/100th of a second. All that drag from clothing will apparently make a huge difference. Which makes me wonder why the athletes don't just compete naked as the early Greeks did? In some sports that appears to be the intent - think beach volley ball and track and field. I felt my female self cringe "in those places that must not be named" seeing those tight little panties the lady runners wear. I was happy to note some wearing the long covering shirts and fan-like shorts similar to what I wear to work out in. But then I'm not being photographed by the world media or seeking to impress with my perfect abs, thighs and butt. Which might explain some of these outfits, hairdos and make-up of some ladies I see at the gym. Where are the cameras? I thought those were there for security.
But then why do the swimmers wear adult onesies that give them the appearance of chunky seals skimming through the water? Material that is lighter than skin? But runners wear the absolute minimum-wouldn't the same principles apply? Ain't science amazing? However as long as you look exactly like your counterparts apparently you belong and no one stands out as looking absolutely ridiculous.
I do appreciate the clever way the countries identify themselves on the backs of their athletes with the wonderful colors and designs representing their countries. And I love the nail polish on many of the American women showing red, white and blue in many different and creative ways.
The fans are just as colorful sporting America's colors in fine Olympic style. Where do they find these perfect items? Somebody is cleaning up nicely and I picture push carts on the streets of Rio carrying every type of patriotic wear for the 200+ countries represented.
Since I'm discussing the Olympics what is with these media types who keep stumbling over themselves discussing the female athletes? "She swims like a man" "She is the wife of a Chicago Bear linebacker" "She owes her success (2 gold medals for pete's sake) to her husband coach". Really? But the kicker was when the coach of the American women's basketball team was asked if he thought it looks bad that the American women are so dominating in the games? Since when did being the best at your sport leads to stupid questions about whether you're playing nice. That ranks right up there with the "everybody gets a trophy for just participating". Uh no. Winning is sweet, working hard and taking the gold is earned. They don't crown you the best unless you are. Try asking that question of Mike Krzysewski and watch him play a little "one-on-one" on your rear.
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
ABOUT TIME
Just when you think that gender doesn't matter in 2016, guess what it does! The fact that a woman, a very capable woman, has finally received the nomination from a major party for the presidency is a big deal in this country. Never mind that other countries have been gender blind for many years; even Sri Lanka realized that in 1960, not to mention Indira Gandhi, Golda Meir and the German Chancellor Merkel. Apparently to some "all men were created equal" didn't mean all people. Though I do believe that was their intent. America the leader of the world in so many ways is pitching a fit because we might have a woman running the show, pathetic.
Yet this woman, this very capable woman, has been attacked continuously and put under the microscope for everything from her beliefs, actions and what she wears-- seriously!! ( Though I wish someone would do a little fashion update for her.) I myself didn't really care what I wore for work considering often I'd be wearing hard hat, safety glasses and "mickey mouse" hearing protection. Not much of a fashionista, but then I was there to work, duh.
What are you afraid of people? Does the idea of a smart, strong woman mess up your idea of America? June Cleaver was a "fig newton" of your imagination. Women have been working alongside the men to survive forever, outside of the 1950's apparently. Do you think Farmer Jones managed his farm on his own? Or the pioneers traveled across the country facing hardships and overcoming them were all masculine? Or the only ones who can hunt and shoot and defend themselves stand to pee? Or all university students, engineers, soldiers, architects, artists, etc, etc are not "all the people".
Can people seriously support a man who continually lies, cheats, bullies, pouts when crossed and shoots down everything this country believes in? The dude doesn't even pay his bills as is evidenced by the number of lawsuits brought against him to collect wages and bills legitimately contracted for services rendered. Who accuses people of ethnic bias or calls them names when they go against him. Classy. And of course, let's hand the checkbook to the guy who declared bankruptcy four times which means he stiffed everyone he owed money to. Nice. Let's hand him the checkbook for the United States. Anyone not think he is in this for the power? Think again.
And to those who oppose the legitimate candidate that is running you ask why, they say "you can't trust her". Explain. Benghazi - not one person's fault and actually more embassies have been attacked and more people killed under every preceding president. Emails - the republican appointed FBI director has cleared her of wrong-doing in Congressional hearings who also had to state well, there were actually 3 possibly classified emails that were sent to her by others who should have known better. Both "witch-hunts" were orchestrated by republicans with the "expressed" purpose of "bringing her down". Unfortunately, their hand-picked candidates for president didn't make the cut. Oops.
Having worked in a non-traditional profession for many years, I thought this kind of male vs. female crap had been eliminated. I know what it is like to be thought of as less than capable because I wore a dress on occasion, resented even. I didn't mind working harder to be credible and usually ignored the sticks and stones so to speak that were constantly hurled my way. Some were bold or twisted enough to actually say "you'll never get it because you're a woman" - yes, literally. Being raised as I was by a strong Mother however, I just shrugged and proceeded to do my job and exceed expectations every time. Boo Rah. Though some might say "well the expectations were low due to your gender". No, I went above and beyond what was expected by someone in my position because 1) it was the right thing to do; and 2) I was never one to hide intelligence behind a bushel basket to "get along". Lonely sometimes but so rewarding when someone actually gets it and you know you've made a difference.
Oddly enough you have to fight the very people you're trying to help because they don't believe you're able to make changes. Listening to people and trying to work with them to see the light facilitated more change than forcefully imposing your will because you could. It's called respect. Swallowing your ego seems harder for the male of the species. Doing so and letting the other person "win" is not a weakness believe me.
I'll throw something else out there. Women know what it is like to create life and we are much more cognizant of the actions that come into play that would eliminate it. Weakness? I think not. Compassion and willingness to work through a problem is a strength that women have as their super powers. Rarely would you see a woman up in the watch tower with a machine gun. We all need to embrace the ability to reason and bring consensus in this increasingly dangerous world. Seeking peaceful solutions may not sit well with some who see every problem as a nail that can only be addressed with a hammer. Instead of throwing roadblocks we need to embrace the special talents that each of us brings forward.
Yes, I am excited that a woman will be our leader and yes, it shouldn't make a damn bit of difference what gender, race, religion, ethnicity that person is. This is the freedom this country promised us back in 1776. And one day I do hope that young people will find it common that ANYONE can achieve any lofty goal they set for themselves.
Yet this woman, this very capable woman, has been attacked continuously and put under the microscope for everything from her beliefs, actions and what she wears-- seriously!! ( Though I wish someone would do a little fashion update for her.) I myself didn't really care what I wore for work considering often I'd be wearing hard hat, safety glasses and "mickey mouse" hearing protection. Not much of a fashionista, but then I was there to work, duh.
What are you afraid of people? Does the idea of a smart, strong woman mess up your idea of America? June Cleaver was a "fig newton" of your imagination. Women have been working alongside the men to survive forever, outside of the 1950's apparently. Do you think Farmer Jones managed his farm on his own? Or the pioneers traveled across the country facing hardships and overcoming them were all masculine? Or the only ones who can hunt and shoot and defend themselves stand to pee? Or all university students, engineers, soldiers, architects, artists, etc, etc are not "all the people".
Can people seriously support a man who continually lies, cheats, bullies, pouts when crossed and shoots down everything this country believes in? The dude doesn't even pay his bills as is evidenced by the number of lawsuits brought against him to collect wages and bills legitimately contracted for services rendered. Who accuses people of ethnic bias or calls them names when they go against him. Classy. And of course, let's hand the checkbook to the guy who declared bankruptcy four times which means he stiffed everyone he owed money to. Nice. Let's hand him the checkbook for the United States. Anyone not think he is in this for the power? Think again.
And to those who oppose the legitimate candidate that is running you ask why, they say "you can't trust her". Explain. Benghazi - not one person's fault and actually more embassies have been attacked and more people killed under every preceding president. Emails - the republican appointed FBI director has cleared her of wrong-doing in Congressional hearings who also had to state well, there were actually 3 possibly classified emails that were sent to her by others who should have known better. Both "witch-hunts" were orchestrated by republicans with the "expressed" purpose of "bringing her down". Unfortunately, their hand-picked candidates for president didn't make the cut. Oops.
Having worked in a non-traditional profession for many years, I thought this kind of male vs. female crap had been eliminated. I know what it is like to be thought of as less than capable because I wore a dress on occasion, resented even. I didn't mind working harder to be credible and usually ignored the sticks and stones so to speak that were constantly hurled my way. Some were bold or twisted enough to actually say "you'll never get it because you're a woman" - yes, literally. Being raised as I was by a strong Mother however, I just shrugged and proceeded to do my job and exceed expectations every time. Boo Rah. Though some might say "well the expectations were low due to your gender". No, I went above and beyond what was expected by someone in my position because 1) it was the right thing to do; and 2) I was never one to hide intelligence behind a bushel basket to "get along". Lonely sometimes but so rewarding when someone actually gets it and you know you've made a difference.
Oddly enough you have to fight the very people you're trying to help because they don't believe you're able to make changes. Listening to people and trying to work with them to see the light facilitated more change than forcefully imposing your will because you could. It's called respect. Swallowing your ego seems harder for the male of the species. Doing so and letting the other person "win" is not a weakness believe me.
I'll throw something else out there. Women know what it is like to create life and we are much more cognizant of the actions that come into play that would eliminate it. Weakness? I think not. Compassion and willingness to work through a problem is a strength that women have as their super powers. Rarely would you see a woman up in the watch tower with a machine gun. We all need to embrace the ability to reason and bring consensus in this increasingly dangerous world. Seeking peaceful solutions may not sit well with some who see every problem as a nail that can only be addressed with a hammer. Instead of throwing roadblocks we need to embrace the special talents that each of us brings forward.
Yes, I am excited that a woman will be our leader and yes, it shouldn't make a damn bit of difference what gender, race, religion, ethnicity that person is. This is the freedom this country promised us back in 1776. And one day I do hope that young people will find it common that ANYONE can achieve any lofty goal they set for themselves.
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