tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22900762991051139682024-03-12T23:04:18.428-04:00Average AbnormalitiesLinzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.comBlogger428125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-67917893388835381432011-04-10T20:02:00.004-04:002011-04-10T20:10:10.915-04:00My Lady Parts Have Gone Mad!<div align="justify">I have no idea what is going on with my lady parts! When I started the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Metformin</span>, my cycle was regulated immediately at 35 days. I realize that's on the long end of the spectrum, but I figured it was OK since it was within the normal limits. Now, all of a sudden, my lady parts have lost their minds. Last month, my cycle was only 33 days. I figured it was a fluke. Not so much. This month was only 29 days. That's nearly a week shorter than just two cycles ago! I have no idea what the deal is. I've been on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">meds</span> since December. Does it take this long for it to start regulating your ovaries? Does the weight loss have something to do with it? Have I been ovulating at all since I started the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">meds</span>? Am I suddenly ovulating now? If anyone has experienced any of this, it would be ever so helpful if you could leave a comment. If you don't want it published, you can leave that in the comment. I moderate all comments, so I won't post it if you don't want me to. Please send any information you have my way! I'm concerned that I'm not ovulating because we are trying to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">conceive</span>. Thanks for any help!</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-66345541694644634342011-03-23T08:47:00.001-04:002011-04-05T08:49:41.350-04:00End of Month 3<div align="justify">I don't have much news this month. No baby yet. BUT, I have lost about 20 pounds! Everything is still going well. I hope anyone reading this can continue to be strong and work through this horrible disease! You can beat PCOS!</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-35475323012672160822011-02-17T13:51:00.000-05:002011-02-17T13:51:59.006-05:00End of Month 2<div align="justify">I have lost another 10 pounds or so this month for a total of about 15 pounds since I started the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Metformin</span> for my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">PCOS</span>. There are many sources citing little to no difference in weight loss for people who take <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Metformin</span> versus those who don't with equal diet and exercise, but I am here to say, it makes a <strong>HUGE</strong> difference. I am doing nothing different than I have tried in the past--in terms of calories in and exercise amounts, but I have dropped almost 2 pounds every week since I began. That says results to me. Plus, my sex drive and my ability to orgasm are off the charts again. I hadn't had an orgasm in about three years. I used to have no problem getting there, and I had a healthy sex-drive, but the past several years have been horrible. Now, I have the sex drive I had as a 20 year old, plus I can get to the big O in less than a minute most times. This helps tremendously if you are trying to conceive. It makes it a lot easier if you actually <em>want</em> to have sex! My husband isn't complaining either... </div><br /><div align="justify">I am still having some diarrhea, but it is very tolerable and only bad when I cheat too much on my diet. By cheating, I mean eating too many <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span>/simple sugars. I've found a lot of great foods with lower <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span>/sugar. There are some Special K crackers that are low in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span> and calories that I found to eat with my Laughing Cow cheese--also a great low calorie snack. Also, I have replaced <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">potatoes</span> in my pot roast with parsnips. With the beef broth in there with the carrots and meat, they take on a great flavor and have a similar texture as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">potatoes</span>, but they have lower <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span>. I'm still learning how to eat well. </div><br /><div align="justify">I'm very pleased with how things are going, and it feels good! Good luck to anyone starting their journey with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">PCOS</span>!</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-38773025297865498792011-01-30T20:36:00.000-05:002011-01-30T20:36:51.985-05:00Confession: I'm Horny<div align="justify">At the risk of sounding like a whore, I used to have a very <span style="font-style: italic;">uh hem <span style="font-weight: bold;">healthy</span></span> sex drive. For the past few years, it has practically been nonexistent. I couldn't figure out what happened exactly, but it was not exactly fun. I've been with the same man for nearly four years now--married nearly two. So, you can understand how a normal sex drive could be beneficial. I tried several things, but nothing seemed to change the situation. However, since I started the Metformin for my PCOS, I have just been downright teenager horny. I want it at least once nearly every day. I don't have any proof it's the treatment for the PCOS, but it makes sense. I mean, if there is a hormonal imbalance due to the PCOS, it certainly makes sense that fixing it could have those kinds of effects. So, while I have little to no evidence and no other cases to cite to the effect, I'm gonna say, "Thank you, Metformin, for giving me back my sex life!"</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-91895488190892372762011-01-16T21:48:00.000-05:002011-01-16T21:49:00.643-05:00End of Month 1<div align="justify">I have been on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Metformin</span> approximately one month. I have lost five pounds. FIVE POUNDS!!!! I know that doesn't sound like much for a month, but it is the first pound I've lost in years. I have tried and tried, but until now--nothing. So, let me outline exactly how I've been doing it along with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Metformin</span>.</div><br /><div align="justify">I have changed my diet fairly drastically and really stuck to my exercising. After dieting and exercising in every way imaginable and not losing, I had pretty much given up. I found that I could eat as much or little as I wanted (and do the same with exercising) and not lose anything but not GAIN anything either. So, I just decided to eat cake! But, since the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Metformin</span>, I decided to give it an honest try. I cut out a lot of sugar. A lot. I switched to practically all diet or calorie-free drinks. The exceptions are few: milk, OJ, and my morning cappuccino (which I make at home from a pod that has some sugar in it--I don't add any). I also cut out a lot of breads except whole <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">wheats</span>. I try to keep total <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">carbs</span> (in a serving) below 15g and sugar below 5g in most things I eat. I do cheat a little, but that's my guideline. In cutting down the sugar, I have decreased my calorie intake to some extent, but I am not focusing on that to the extreme. I do try to eat smaller portion meals at restaurants or split the meal in half immediately when it is served so that I box up and take home half of the meal. In terms of exercising, I am doing my elliptical at least every other day. Many times, I do several days in a row. I do not try to kill myself to get it in every. single. day. I have also been doing things on the weekends that are fun as well as a good workout--like hiking up a local mountain on the loose snow (like walking in sand--all. the. way. up. a. mountain!)</div><br /><div align="justify">So, do I cheat on my diet? Absolutely. But, have I changed a lot of what I eat? Absolutely. But, for once, I am seeing results. A year from now, at this rate, I could be around 150 lbs. That would be phenomenal.</div><br /><div align="justify">I hope this update gives you as much encouragement to try as it is giving me!</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-9252818491160353132011-01-05T16:49:00.000-05:002011-01-05T16:49:22.914-05:00I Have PCOS<div align="justify">I have been diagnosed with <a href="https://health.google.com/health/ref/Polycystic+ovary+disease">PCOS, polycystic ovary disease</a>. As I'm reading a lot of forums and questions online, I realize there is very little information about this disease. I want to put this out there (and try to remember to update on it) for those who are google-ing obsessively, like myself. I'm hoping some women will stumble upon it and be helped in some small way.</div><br /><div align="justify">Let me start at the beginning: I was a very active teenager, and I was always very thin. I don't think I capped 100 lbs before college. But, I am 5'2", so I wasn't exactly anorexic. I have always had a sleeping problem--for as long as I can remember. When I started Freshman year at UGA, I pretty much lost it due to lack of sleep. I went to the student health center, and a doctor there prescribed Trazodone once a day just before bed to help me sleep. I stayed on it for nearly 6 years. I started to put on a little weight during this time, and I chalked it up to the less active lifestyle of college and the sleeping pills, which are rumored to make you gain.</div><br /><div align="justify">I graduated in May of 2007 and moved to Kennesaw, GA for my job. I was probably all of a size 6, maybe 125 lbs at the time. I was a very good size. But, I steadily and quickly started packing on pounds, despite living on the third floor with no elevator. I was getting concerned with the gaining because I honestly wasn't doing anything different--no change in diet, exercise, etc. After gaining 50 pounds or more, a doctor finally discovered my hypothyroidism.</div><br /><div align="justify">I started taking Levothyroxin in 2008, and I have that under control. But, that control wasn't achieved before I peaked out at 215 lbs. (Recall that I am 5'2".) I thought at that point I could surely lose the weight--being that my thyroid was supposedly doing its thing now. But, after several months, and purchasing my elliptical to do at home due to the embarrassment of swishing my fat ass at the gym, I still wasn't losing.</div><br /><div align="justify">I decided to come off birth control pills to see if that helped. Not only that, but I'd been on them for 10 years (started at 15 to help regulate periods), and I wanted to see how my cycle would go because my husband and I were getting ready to start trying for a family. Still nothing. Not to mention the fact that I went 40 days without a period, only to get one that was barely worth calling a period and lasted only a day.</div><br /><div align="justify">My doctor finally referred me to an Endocrinologist, whom I grossly detest. But, she recommended more testing, which produced results of elevated testosterone. I was subsequently subjected to a glucose tolerance test and later diagnosed with PCOS.</div><br /><div align="justify">Fortunately, I haven't grown a penis. (Joke!) Unfortunately, I do have many of the symptoms, including weight gain, severe acne, and irregular and light periods. I have been fortunate enough to not have excessive hair growth, but I have noticed a tiny amount of hair at the corners of my mouth getting darker. It used to be this white peach-fuzz like the rest of my face.</div><br /><div align="justify">The doctor prescribed Metformin, 500mg, twice a day. I have been taking it since December 14th. I have yet to really notice much difference. I have tolerated it well, unlike many of the people I've read about online, so I wanted people to know it isn't terrible for everyone. I do have some diarrhea, but it isn't severe. I'm used to stomach upset, though, because my dad has Crohn's disease, and while I don't think I have it, I do share some of his symptoms. So, maybe it would be worse for a normal person.</div><br /><div align="justify">As of today, I haven't lost any weight to speak of. I've been cutting way back on sugars--making sweet tea with Splenda, drinking diet soda, changing to whole wheat bread, etc. But, nothing yet. My husband and I haven't started trying for a child just yet, but my periods are not yet regular, and I'm not convinced I am ovulating yet. I can't say for sure. My acne does seem to be somewhat diminished, which is great because it sure exploded when I quit the pill--a good indicator of my PCOS because the pill is one f the treatments (probably the reason no one ever realized I have it). I do feel like I have more energy during the day, but I have been wanting to sleep 10 and 12 hours a night during my break from work (30 days off as a requirement from the State--don't get excited, it was without pay), but I go back on Monday, so I'm sure that will put an end to that. </div><br /><div align="justify">I hope to update soon as to my weight, energy level, menstrual cycle, and other symptoms. I'm only 3 weeks into the Metformin, so I am hoping things will start to look better in the next few weeks. I go back to the doctor on the 21st, so we will see then how my levels look. </div><br /><div align="justify">I don't know that anyone out there searching for answers will find this, much less find it helpful. But, I wanted to get this out there.</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-42214236539503947692010-09-24T16:31:00.000-04:002010-09-24T16:31:59.808-04:00FYI: The J.O.B. Revisited<div align="justify">Since I posted about my <a href="http://linzs-soapbox.blogspot.com/2010/09/fyi-job.html">new job</a> a couple weeks ago, I have been pondering something. Since I now work for <span style="font-style: italic;">the</span> State, I work in a location in which I am <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">legally </span>not allowed to bring my gun. So, basically I'm a <span style="font-weight: bold;">sitting duck</span> for a psycho who wants to run <span style="font-weight: bold;">amuck</span> at my place of work. I am becoming exceedingly irritated at this fact. I mean, if I worked for some <span style="font-style: italic;">jackass </span>who just didn't want guns in his place of business, I'd still bring that shit anyway. I'd just keep it on the <span style="font-style: italic;">down low</span>. Because, really, it's worth getting fired for--<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">my life </span>that is. And, in reality, my 2nd Amendment right is worth dying for, or it should be, so it is <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">certainly </span>worth getting fired over. It is, after all, what my forefathers fought <span style="font-weight: bold;">and </span>died for. But, in this case, I would not only be fired, I'd have broken a law, which would <span style="font-style: italic;">probably</span> prevent me from carrying a gun <span style="font-weight: bold;">ANY</span>where <span style="font-weight: bold;">EVER</span> again in my future--which I hope is somewhat long, being that I'm not old and gray <span style="font-style: italic;">just yet</span>. I just can't get this out of my mind. I love my <a href="http://www.surefire.com/maxexp/main.pl?pgm=co_disp&func=displ&strfnbr=6&prrfnbr=1132&sesent=0,0&search_id=2266142">Surefire E2D</a>, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">damn</span>, that just <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">isn't </span>enough!</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-83667522415689045102010-09-15T18:46:00.003-04:002010-09-15T19:15:39.801-04:00The Health Care Crisis Crisis<div align="justify">So, I saw an interesting post of facebook. <em>So</em> credible, I know. So, I <a href="http://www.snopes.com/">Snopes</a>-<em>ed</em> it. (Yes, I just made up a word. Yes, that's how I roll.) Apparently, it is legitimate, <em><strong>assuming</strong></em> Snopes is legitimate, but that's always up for discussion... The post is a letter to the editor or something similar that a doctor sent to a local paper in Mississippi. I can't find the original, but here is <a href="http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/starner.asp">Snopes</a>' quote:</div><div align="justify"><blockquote><p>"During my last shift in the ER, I had the pleasure of evaluating a patient with a shiny new gold tooth, multiple elaborate tatoos <em>(sic)</em> and a new cellular telephone equipped with her favorite R&B tune for a ring tone. </p><p>"Glancing over the chart, one could not help noticing her payer status: Medicaid. </p><p>"She smokes a costly pack of cigarettes every day and, somehow, still has money to buy beer. </p><p>"And our president expects me to pay for this woman's health care? </p><p>"Our nation's health care crisis is not a shortage of quality hospitals, doctors or nurses. It is a crisis of culture — a culture in which it is perfectly acceptable to spend money on vices while refusing to take care of one's self or, heaven forbid, purchase health insurance. </p><p>"Life is really not that hard. Most of us reap what we sow. </p><p>"Starner Jones, MD </p><p>"Jackson"</p></blockquote></div><div align="justify">Now, if that don't just about sum it up, <strong>I don't know what does</strong>. And, to those who read and agree with the response on Snopes that was apparently sent in to the paper regarding Jones' letter, I must say <em><strong>I beg to differ</strong></em>. There <strong>is</strong> an Us and a Them. The Us pay for lazy <strong>turd-cutters</strong> to sit on their growing asses. The Them take advantage of the system and are perfectly capable of getting off their lazy asses and supporting themselves. Now, I realize <em>and agree</em> that there is a slippery slope in determining who can and cannot get government support, but let's be real, <strong>we already do that</strong>--otherwise we would <em><strong>all</strong></em> be getting government support and none of us would be working. (Could you imagine the deficit? On second thought, could it <strong><em>really </em></strong>be much worse than it is now?) So, that argument is null and void in my book. We need more <strong>realistic and accurate</strong> ways of measuring qualifications for government assistance. Because, I for one know that my husband and I have nothing to drink in our refrigerator right now but water--and it<em><strong> isn't</strong></em> bottled but from the tap and is just in a pitcher in the frig to be cold. What I mean to say is, we can't afford groceries most weeks, so we don't even have milk right now. And, we <strong>don't</strong> qualify for food stamps. So,<em> yes</em>, I do get a <em>little</em> <strong>fucking</strong> irritated at the <strong>fat cunt</strong> in line buying <strong><em>$400</em></strong> worth of meat when I can't even buy <em>milk</em> because she has food stamps and I don't, and I'll be <em>damned</em> if she doesn't look <strong><em>awfully capable</em></strong> of pushing that <strong><em>really</em></strong> heavy meat cart around. Can't she get a job doing <em>that</em>?</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-21877683495992032592010-09-14T15:27:00.002-04:002010-09-14T15:39:36.374-04:00FYI: The J.O.B.<div align="justify">So, I got this new fancy smancy job working for the State. I won't say doing what so as to <em>somewhat</em> protect myself from getting fired when I make racist comments, bitch about how shitty work is, and say otherwise unscrupulous and immoral things on this here blog. Because, <strong><em>let's face it</em></strong>, you assholes will try to get me fired just because <a href="http://linzs-soapbox.blogspot.com/2009/02/confession-i-hate-dogmar-midcrap.html">I hate Dagmar</a>.</div><br /><div align="justify">So, I want to start out my bitching by saying that I can only work <strong>19 hours</strong> in a week because I am part-time. According to the State, if you work more than 19 hours, you are eligible for benefits, and they are <strong>required</strong> to offer them to you. Well, <em><strong>whoopdeefuckingdoo</strong></em> with your benefits. I just need some damn money! My husband's work has much better insurance than the State at a much cheaper cost to us, so I could give <em>two shits</em> about that. I just need some cash!</div><br /><div align="justify">Now, let me back up and say that I <em>guess </em>I wouldn't be <em>so</em> irritated by this if they hadn't interviewed me for a full-time position that they never got funding established for. Yeah, that's right.<strong> AFTER</strong> they drug me through <strong>THREE. FUCKING. INTERVIEWS.</strong> They let me know that funding hadn't been secured, and they weren't sure it would be. Well,<em><strong> lucky me</strong></em>, there just so happened to be a part-time opening because (<em><strong>guess what!</strong></em>) the funding didn't come through. <em>Gotta love it</em>.</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-70946319392406073062010-09-14T15:19:00.002-04:002010-09-14T15:26:20.752-04:00The Boob Apron<div align="justify">So, as a chick with <strong>huge</strong> boobs, I try to keep them <em>semi-</em>covered so as to avoid direct and obvious ogling. But, of course, there are shirts that just don't cooperate. For instance, v-necks, wraps, button-downs, etc. I tried wearing a tank top under those kinds of shirts, but it adds bulk and makes me look fatter than I already am, plus it makes me hot as <strong>hell</strong>. So, they have these little clip on things they have been advertising on the TV. I was thinking, if that shit would <em>actually</em> stay stuck to my bra all day (<em><strong>doubtful</strong></em>), it might be worth a shot. But after seeing <a href="http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/81081080/">this video</a>, I've decided not to be a shitty human being. I'm gonna let my <strong><em>puppies fly</em></strong>.</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-15404532009698516592010-08-12T21:27:00.000-04:002010-08-12T21:27:28.972-04:00Where Does That Money Come From???<div align="justify">So, I'm sure all of you have heard about the <a href="http://www.cbsatlanta.com/news/24583416/detail.html?taf=lnta">30,000 people showing up to 100 available Section 8 homes in East Point, GA</a>. But, have you heard the Regular Guys talk to the applicants? Unless you live in the metro area, I'm <span style="font-style: italic;">guessing</span> you haven't. And, you need to:</div><br /><div align="justify">Go <a href="http://www.atlantasrockstation.com/portals/5/rock1005_TRG/audio/081210_2_welcome.mp3">here</a>. (Yes, it's a download, but it is directly from their podcast, and I have no way of linking directly to it other than the file. It's not a virus.) And <span style="font-style: italic;">just listen.</span> The most important part is around 7 minutes if you want to skip.</div><br /><div align="justify">It's not enough that they are bitching that the housing authority wasn't prepared for <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">30,ooo</span> people. Oh, <span style="font-style: italic;">no</span>, they are expecting a <span style="font-weight: bold;">fucking handout</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">As usual</span>. The guy has no reason to be in government housing. No. Fucking. Reason. He's not handicapped. His children aren't handicapped. His <strike>wife</strike> baby-mama isn't handicapped. There is NOTHING wrong with him. Or his family. Or his ability to pay rent. He doesn't even give a sob story about being laid off (like so many of us who actually work) since, well, you <span style="font-weight: bold;">have to have a job in the first place</span> to get laid off. When they ask him where the money comes from, he acts like he doesn't know. They tell him. Then he's all like, "<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I figured</span>." Well, if you <span style="font-style: italic;">figured</span> the taxpayers were paying your lazy fucking ass' way, why didn't you get a job?! <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Because </span>you're a worthless ass piece of shit, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">you are what is wrong with our country</span>! And, he's <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">happy or thankful</span> about it. Because "some people might disagree with that". Yeah, some people might disagree with the fact that taxpayers pay your lazy ass fucking way. Like <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Right.</span> Except you'd be fucking wrong. <span style="font-weight: bold;">T-totally fucking wrong, <span style="font-style: italic;">asshole</span></span>.<br /></div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-35197486491816968532010-08-04T14:59:00.000-04:002010-08-04T14:59:34.744-04:00Consumer Reports Sucks<div align="justify">So, I'm sure you recall my <a href="http://linzs-soapbox.blogspot.com/2010/07/samsung-washer-wf330anw.html">new fancy smancy washing machine</a> I got last month. You might also recall that I used <a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/index.htm">Consumer Reports</a> to help decide which one to get. Well, those <span style="font-weight: bold;">fuckers </span>liked me so much they decided they wanted to keep me for another month, which I did <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">NOT</span> authorize. When I signed up, I chose the one month option because I was only using it to help pick out a washing machine. I didn't expect to make any other big purchases any time soon, so I didn't want to sign up for a<span style="font-style: italic;"> year</span>. Well, I sign on to my <a href="https://www.regions.com/personal_banking.rf">Regions</a>, and there it is--five dollars and 95<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> fucking</span> cents of Consumer Reports. So, I put on my sweetest<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> kill them with kindness</span> voice, and I call the lady. I say that I did not intend to sign up for a year, and that was not clearly stated. I asked her to please refund the charge since I had not used the website, and I did not intend to, <span style="font-style: italic;">and she refused</span>. So, I called her a <span style="font-weight: bold;">bitch </span>(which <span style="font-style: italic;">always </span>makes me feel better), told her I'd call my bank, and I <span style="font-weight: bold;">WOULD</span> get my money back, and I'd complain to the <a href="http://www.bbb.org/">BBB</a>. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Which I did</span>. I love Regions! <span style="font-style: italic;">And the BBB.</span><br /></div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-3263438230702592262010-07-24T11:29:00.000-04:002010-07-24T11:29:37.328-04:00Black Panther 10 Point Belief = Scary Shit!<div align="justify">This is copied <strong>exactly</strong> from the <a href="http://blackpanther.org/tenpoint.htm">Black Panther's website</a>:</div><br /><blockquote><div align="justify">"The Ten Point Plan</div><br /><div align="justify">"WE WANT FREEDOM. WE WANT POWER TO DETERMINE THE DESTINY OF OUR BLACK AND OPPRESSED COMMUNITIES. We believe that Black and oppressed people will not be free until we are able to determine our destinies in our own communities ourselves, by fully controlling all the institutions which exist in our communities.<br /><br />"WE WANT FULL EMPLOYMENT FOR OUR PEOPLE. We believe that the federal government is responsible and obligated to give every person employment or a guaranteed income. We believe that if the American businessmen will not give full employment, then the technology and means of production should be taken from the businessmen and placed in the community so that the people of the community can organize and employ all of its people and give a high standard of living.<br /><br />"WE WANT AN END TO THE ROBBERY BY THE CAPITALISTS OF OUR BLACK AND OPPRESSED COMMUNITIES. We believe that this racist government has robbed us and now we are demanding the overdue debt of forty acres and two mules. Forty acres and two mules were promised 100 years ago as restitution for slave labor and mass murder of Black people. We will accept the payment in currency which will be distributed to our many communities. The American racist has taken part in the slaughter of our fifty million Black people. Therefore, we feel this is a modest demand that we make.<br /><br />"WE WANT DECENT HOUSING, FIT FOR THE SHELTER OF HUMAN BEINGS. We believe that if the landlords will not give decent housing to our Black and oppressed communities, then housing and the land should be made into cooperatives so that the people in our communities, with government aid, can build and make decent housing for the people.<br /><br />"WE WANT DECENT EDUCATION FOR OUR PEOPLE THAT EXPOSES THE TRUE NATURE OF THIS DECADENT AMERICAN SOCIETY. WE WANT EDUCATION THAT TEACHES US OUR TRUE HISTORY AND OUR ROLE IN THE PRESENT-DAY SOCIETY. We believe in an educational system that will give to our people a knowledge of the self. If you do not have knowledge of yourself and your position in the society and in the world, then you will have little chance to know anything else.<br /><br />"WE WANT COMPLETELY FREE HEALTH CARE FOR All BLACK AND OPPRESSED PEOPLE. We believe that the government must provide, free of charge, for the people, health facilities which will not only treat our illnesses, most of which have come about as a result of our oppression, but which will also develop preventive medical programs to guarantee our future survival. We believe that mass health education and research programs must be developed to give all Black and oppressed people access to advanced scientific and medical information, so we may provide our selves with proper medical attention and care.<br /><br />"WE WANT AN IMMEDIATE END TO POLICE BRUTALITY AND MURDER OF BLACK PEOPLE, OTHER PEOPLE OF COLOR, All OPPRESSED PEOPLE INSIDE THE UNITED STATES. We believe that the racist and fascist government of the United States uses its domestic enforcement agencies to carry out its program of oppression against black people, other people of color and poor people inside the united States. We believe it is our right, therefore, to defend ourselves against such armed forces and that all Black and oppressed people should be armed for self defense of our homes and communities against these fascist police forces.<br /><br />"WE WANT AN IMMEDIATE END TO ALL WARS OF AGGRESSION. We believe that the various conflicts which exist around the world stem directly from the aggressive desire of the United States ruling circle and government to force its domination upon the oppressed people of the world. We believe that if the United States government or its lackeys do not cease these aggressive wars it is the right of the people to defend themselves by any means necessary against their aggressors.<br /><br />"WE WANT FREEDOM FOR ALL BLACK AND OPPRESSED PEOPLE NOW HELD IN U. S. FEDERAL, STATE, COUNTY, CITY AND MILITARY PRISONS AND JAILS. WE WANT TRIALS BY A JURY OF PEERS FOR All PERSONS CHARGED WITH SO-CALLED CRIMES UNDER THE LAWS OF THIS COUNTRY. We believe that the many Black and poor oppressed people now held in United States prisons and jails have not received fair and impartial trials under a racist and fascist judicial system and should be free from incarceration. We believe in the ultimate elimination of all wretched, inhuman penal institutions, because the masses of men and women imprisoned inside the United States or by the United States military are the victims of oppressive conditions which are the real cause of their imprisonment. We believe that when persons are brought to trial they must be guaranteed, by the United States, juries of their peers, attorneys of their choice and freedom from imprisonment<br />while awaiting trial.<br /><br />"WE WANT LAND, BREAD, HOUSING, EDUCATION, CLOTHING, JUSTICE, PEACE AND PEOPLE'S COMMUNITY CONTROL OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY. When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume, among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.<br /><br />"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; that, whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and, accordingly, all experience hath shown that mankind are most disposed to suffer, while evils are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">sufferable</span>, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But, when a long train of abuses and usurpation, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."</div></blockquote><br /><div align="justify">While it's <em>all</em> quite concerning, the point that gets me is that their "illnesses...have come about as a result of [their] oppression". <em><strong>Huh</strong></em>. That's sure funny. I didn't know sickle cell was caused by <strong><em>slavery</em></strong>!</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-66188978860425563642010-07-24T11:15:00.000-04:002010-07-24T11:16:01.708-04:00Joke: Mexican Word of the Day<div align="justify">This isn't meant to offend anyone, and if it does, I'm sort of sorry but not really. I thought <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/mexicanwordoftheday">this</a> was funny shit!</div><br /><div align="justify">Mexican Word of the Day is Wafer<br />I wanted to go to the movies with my friends, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">pero</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">los</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">mensos</span> didn't wafer me.<br /><br />Mexican Word of the Day is July<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ju</span> told me <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">ju</span> were going to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">tha</span> store and JULY to me! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">JULYER</span>!<br /><br />Mexican Word of the Day is Mushroom<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Orale</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">vato</span>, when all my family gets in the car there's not mushroom!<br /><br />Mexican Word of the Day is Chicken<br />My wife wanted me to go to the store, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">pero</span> chicken go herself.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Rectum<br />I got two cars but not anymore because my wife rectum.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Texas<br />My <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">ruca</span> always Texas me when I'm not home wondering where I'm at.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Defender<br />Last week my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">ruca</span> wrecked my car <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">pero</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">gracias</span> a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">dios</span> nothing happen to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">tha</span> grill just defender.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Juarez<br />My <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">vieja</span> slapped me and I said, "Juarez your freaking problem?"<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Cheese<br />My girlfriend wants me to get her pregnant <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">pero</span> cheese crazy!<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Brief<br />My <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">homie</span> farted so bad that I couldn't brief.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Cashew<br />I tried running after you, but I couldn't cashew!<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Bishop<br />The other day my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">ruca</span> fell down the stairs, and I had to pick the Bishop.<br /><br />Mexican word of the day is Wheelchair<br />My <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">homie</span> was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">drinkin</span> a bud light when I told him "Hey <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">vato</span> wheres mine?"<br />He told me "Don't worry. Wheelchair."</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-7574888650203790112010-07-22T19:01:00.000-04:002010-07-22T19:01:42.180-04:00Joke: A Blonde With Big Tits<div align="justify">President George W. Bush and Colin Powell are drinking in a pub close to Old Town Square in Prague. A guy walks in and asks the bartender,"Isn't that Bush and Powell sitting over there?"<br /><br />The barman says, "Yep, that's them."<br /><br />So the guy walks over and says, "Wow, this is a real honor. What are you guys doing in here?"<br /><br />Bush says, "We're planning WW III."<br /><br />The guy says, "Really? What's going to happen?"<br /><br />Bush says, "Well, we're going to kill 40 million Iraqis this time and one blonde with big tits."<br /><br />A little perplexed the guy exclaimed, "A blonde with big tits? Why kill a blonde with big tits?"<br /><br />Bush turns to Powell, punches him on the shoulder and says, "See, smart ass?! I told you no one would worry about the 40 million Iraqis.</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-68997875616221184712010-07-13T17:01:00.000-04:002010-07-13T17:01:01.200-04:00Hummingbird Takes Hot Air Balloon Ride<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEQHBpXc-50rdcT0JTnxDN-9HvoBv7tumsW-i4oJO7ACSTdKy9LTv_7sMPGHWix_uPYWujW9SNdsQ-YWQsUH4GNc-lwHHyT4S60kNiN1o0eXV4a0XixODXh7sqV8HJDqRIV51Pa9Up08/s1600/HPIM3192.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEQHBpXc-50rdcT0JTnxDN-9HvoBv7tumsW-i4oJO7ACSTdKy9LTv_7sMPGHWix_uPYWujW9SNdsQ-YWQsUH4GNc-lwHHyT4S60kNiN1o0eXV4a0XixODXh7sqV8HJDqRIV51Pa9Up08/s400/HPIM3192.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493497812085372530" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">I thought this was a fantastic photo (right click to open in another window for full size). We got this feeder last year, just to see if we could get any hummingbirds, and this <span style="font-style: italic;">little lady</span> has been gracing us with her presence. She's quite beautiful--and <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">extremely</span> fast!</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-30175096664733968982010-07-09T14:52:00.000-04:002010-07-09T14:52:28.598-04:00I Was Wondering: Psychological Screening for Guns<div align="justify">I don't want to piss anyone off (that's a first, <em><strong>right?!</strong></em>), so hear me out before you fly off. This is an honest question, and I honestly want to hear your opinion. So, please <strong>be civil</strong>. </div><br /><div align="justify">I have a very close family member who works for a sport shooting club. He is around guns all the time, and he was his own guns. He even recently obtained a Georgia conceal carry license. <em><strong>Here's the problem</strong></em>: I know for a fact he shot himself about 10 years ago. I don't think it was <em>honestly </em>a suicide attempt as much as it was a cry for attention because of some shit that was going on (I won't air his dirty laundry). However, he was nearly paralyzed and <strong>extremely</strong> lucky. I don't necessarily think he'd do it again, but I never thought he'd do it in the <em>first place</em>. </div><br /><div align="justify"><strong>Here's my question</strong>: Do you think, <em>in spite of how much we want gun rights</em>, we need more strict <strong>psychological screening</strong> when it comes to getting your hands on guns or gun permits. I'm torn on the issue, mostly because I know the guy, but if I <em>didn't</em> know him and love him, would I think he should have a gun <em>much less</em> a conceal carry permit? </div><br /><div align="justify">Please discuss, <em>but remember</em>, comments are moderated!</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-92005257395146347802010-07-09T14:41:00.001-04:002010-09-05T20:09:56.879-04:00Samsung Washer WF330ANW<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBOVYBfuEnTbwDMkR0FvzvqPTeI4LVDXbpapm-LAYejQrRqvAeO3hsYky0zSyPhk_CY06jtRWH5UQEMrH3yVZFkcGkSMO2kWt3t3Rvn2FIYrrvfJMun2Sn1Pj8PkZYuYOAx_sZ64uxiI/s1600/HPIM3180.JPG"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 316px; display: block; height: 400px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491973301871949762" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBOVYBfuEnTbwDMkR0FvzvqPTeI4LVDXbpapm-LAYejQrRqvAeO3hsYky0zSyPhk_CY06jtRWH5UQEMrH3yVZFkcGkSMO2kWt3t3Rvn2FIYrrvfJMun2Sn1Pj8PkZYuYOAx_sZ64uxiI/s400/HPIM3180.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">So, my washer, which wasn't really <em>my</em> washer but Travis' parents' old one, decided it wanted to be retired to the <strike>old folks home</strike> junk yard at the ripe <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">ol</span>' age of 15. The drum in our <em>top</em> loader was at an angle more like that of a <em>front </em>loader, and it was leaking oil. And, even though we're broke as Joe's turkey (why, <em><strong>exactly</strong></em>, Joe's turkey is broke, I don't know), we decided we were tired of that shit and kicked it to the curb for this nice shiny new one.</div><br /><div align="justify">It's a <strong><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Samsung</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">WF</span>330<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">ANW</span></strong>, and it is currently <a href="http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+4.3+Cu.+Ft.+9-Cycle+Ultra+Capacity+Washer+-+White/9742451.p?id=1218165341667&skuId=9742451&st=wf330&cp=1&lp=1">$600 from Best Buy</a>. I did a lot of research on washing machines, and we decided a front loader was the best way to go. Consumer Reports rated this machine very highly and gave it their "recommended" stamp. We got a <a href="http://www.georgiarebate.com/">Georgia Energy Star Rebate</a> for <strong>$99 </strong>(note that <strong>online</strong> purchases do <strong>NOT</strong> apply--you must buy in store!), so we ended up getting it for $500, and it was just a way better deal than any top loader. Plus, it has more space and more options, including this <em><strong>fancy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">smancy</span></strong></em> "sanitize" cycle. I'm in love with that one since we have a chihuahua who thinks she's a <em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">cocker</span> spaniel</em> and pukes every chance she gets. <em><strong>Just to piss me off</strong></em>. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Anywho</span>, it's been super quiet, and, despite the concrete floor that was leveled by a <strong>drunk with one eye</strong>, it hasn't walked off yet. It spins at a remarkable <strong>1150 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">rpms</span></strong>. I swear it's going to take off, but it sure gets your clothes dry before you put them in the dryer. It's a huge energy saver because of that, and it uses a lot lot lot less water. The direct drive motor has a <strong>10 year</strong> warranty, which is comparable to LG, and at regular price it is very comparable to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">LG's</span> similar model, but on sale, it was <em>no contest</em>. </div><br /><div align="justify">I haven't had any issues with it <strong><em>yet</em></strong> (I'll update if I do) except I don't have enough stuff to wash. I sat there and watched it for the first hour or so... I want to try out all the cycles, but I don't have any dress clothes for permanent press or wool for the wool cycle, and I don't wear anything that goes on the gentle cycle (<em>if you know what I mean</em>). I'm thinking of trying the chihuahua on the gentle cycle, but I'm afraid she may need to go on the <em>quick</em> wash...</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-79816166724890417582010-07-09T14:12:00.001-04:002010-07-09T14:13:28.147-04:00Burger King of Idiots, US41, Acworth, GA<div align="justify">So, here's I is...I been wantin' (<em><strong>pinin' for</strong></em>) a Burger King apple pie for, like, <strong>two days</strong>. I get myself an appetite worked up swimming (in case you aren't in Georgia, it's <em>only</em> 100 degrees). I get out of the pool, drive <em>all the way</em> to Burger King--they aren't exactly all that common, <em><strong>really</strong></em>--and place my order for a whopper JR (no cheese, no onions), a large frozen coke, and an apple pie (<em>well, duh!</em>). What about this looks anything like an apple fucking pie?.</div><br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNkEupYRyuthHWt3G9s286k_SJCdo26nOOilGbTE-N5uP6vTYQFv7P9Z1pMIxkZRmiO80rsP7NunoSFVVPsPkh15mUOrIVVLW01As5cPAOVBd8tUMFDo8Ixt_pO4VW2s-GxhLcK9VqEU/s1600/HPIM3178.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 248px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491967352974949282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNkEupYRyuthHWt3G9s286k_SJCdo26nOOilGbTE-N5uP6vTYQFv7P9Z1pMIxkZRmiO80rsP7NunoSFVVPsPkh15mUOrIVVLW01As5cPAOVBd8tUMFDo8Ixt_pO4VW2s-GxhLcK9VqEU/s400/HPIM3178.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div align="justify">Go ahead and right click and select "Open Link in New Tab" if you can't tell. Because the answer is NOTHING. And Samedesh, <em><strong>yes literally</strong></em>, can't blame my fucking accent or the speaker because the shit was broken, and I was ordering <strong>AT THE WINDOW</strong>. Really. You can't make this shit up! And, to add insult to injury they give you this ketchup-sized packet of caramel. What the fuck am I supposed to do with <em><strong>that</strong></em>?! At least give me a little cup of the "low fat" caramel so I can dip my apple sticks in it. I mean, does that <em>crazy bitch</em> really think my <strong>fat ass</strong> is gonna order a whopper, frozen coke, and<em> apples</em>?! It's like ordering a whopper, large fries, and a <strong><em>diet coke</em></strong>. Damn. <em>Just damn</em>.</div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-88362030457105768022010-07-07T13:56:00.002-04:002010-07-07T14:10:53.060-04:00Hiatus Much?<div align="justify">I apologize for the <em><strong>mild</strong></em> inconvenience of not getting to read my mindless rantings everyday. It's been a long year and a half since getting laid off, and I just haven't had it in me. Have I changed much? <em>Probably not</em>. I'm still <strong>super</strong> bitter and angry, but I try to keep it to minimum, which might be new... I really don't know. </div><br /><div align="justify">If you're wondering, I <em><strong>still </strong></em>don't have a job. <em>Yep.</em> It's been a year and a half. <em>Yep.</em> There must be something wrong with me. <em>Nope</em>. I don't know what it is. I've looked and applied and looked and applied until I've all but given up. I don't really think I'll get a job at this point. It's been too long since I've had one. I think I might be OK with it now, though. My husband (<em><strong>not divorced yet! woohooo!</strong></em>) is set to graduate from school (<em>finally!</em>) in December. Bless his heart, he has worked so hard, and I am so proud of him! So, assuming nothing goes wrong (with me, <strong><em>YEAH RIGHT!</em></strong>), he will be working true full time with a salary to match that degree come the first of the year. We might actually survive!</div><br /><div align="justify">So, if everything works out, we might start trying to have some rugrats. I know what you're thinking: my mouth and kids--<strong>bad combination</strong>. LOL I'm not that bad in real life. <em>I think</em>... </div><br /><div align="justify">Anywho... I've been meaning to write something for a while, so maybe I'll <em>actually</em> be able to commit. I hope you will still read, even if it's been a long time. I believe I can still entertain... We shall see.</div><br /><div align="justify">We. <em><strong>Shall</strong>.</em> See. </div><br /><div align="justify"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /> </div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-4540322429098152632009-08-25T21:53:00.002-04:002009-08-25T21:58:39.210-04:00You've Got to be Kidding: Only in Jackson County...<div align="justify">...does stealing some chicken make<strong> headlining news</strong>. </div><br /><div align="justify">From <a href="http://www.jacksonheraldtoday.com/archives/2354-Lots-of-chicken-stolen.html">my (previously) local paper</a>:</div><div align="justify"><blockquote><p>"Apparently, a suspect really likes chicken — to the point of stealing, according to the Braselton Police Department. </p><p>"A tractor-trailer truck driver told police that he parked his vehicle at the Pilot Travel Center on Ga. Hwy. 53. Sometime after midnight, a suspect entered his sealed trailer and took several boxes of chicken, according to an incident report. </p><p>"The stolen boxes were valued at $1,300."</p></blockquote></div><div align="justify">This just made me <strike>cluck and cluck</strike> laugh and laugh! Must be a slow news day. Oh, wait, that's <em>every</em>day in Podunk, Georgia.</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-38041343337388339352009-08-17T15:05:00.004-04:002009-08-17T15:34:38.834-04:00Pretty in Pink<div align="justify">Travis bought me this Gerbera Daisy a few months ago. I thought it was so beautiful with water droplets on it from the recent rain. The second picture shows a tiny ant on the flower. How cool! (Click for larger.)</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4CUoAIiPeMTr1_cc3NPNWlrv1cM3-dnflFc9A9bfeUw6RXXxbGgA_PBgSi_UIxoqeutjnltXyw51nYZjnahjRUItkd1V_7KQeiCjsgorh6zEEZxVjExXgWZfdTSgvSNNXUPPChg7Guc/s1600-h/HPIM2732.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371017033165363698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 331px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4CUoAIiPeMTr1_cc3NPNWlrv1cM3-dnflFc9A9bfeUw6RXXxbGgA_PBgSi_UIxoqeutjnltXyw51nYZjnahjRUItkd1V_7KQeiCjsgorh6zEEZxVjExXgWZfdTSgvSNNXUPPChg7Guc/s400/HPIM2732.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGYezmd0Y0OcH-rPe-6ALKo_AvB7I2OU6qFlFPCoHWGHMmNMVGERtsKrTTx162rqUh6Mwjwnl15rM62_vNQ_ZcOUGGg_ZtiPpUqZkBIJhRkwxQFiI5Pkkpv-MhL9kGYxv70cRzvYGwkc/s1600-h/HPIM2733.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371013922623708514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 392px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGYezmd0Y0OcH-rPe-6ALKo_AvB7I2OU6qFlFPCoHWGHMmNMVGERtsKrTTx162rqUh6Mwjwnl15rM62_vNQ_ZcOUGGg_ZtiPpUqZkBIJhRkwxQFiI5Pkkpv-MhL9kGYxv70cRzvYGwkc/s400/HPIM2733.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdqPzNIWbSDaVZ_5-LdIdCbJ74xhlGdflqMRnWEKIZCPpp81UjLfaIwKiRwDqk4AzMpX82nrz_S6Lbap-y-4Y-QFOF6unVyyHDV4J5KFMViRiuXu8AMLwfBEQ9IjxVVMqpe-kfXE7dWw/s1600-h/HPIM2735.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371011352458757730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdqPzNIWbSDaVZ_5-LdIdCbJ74xhlGdflqMRnWEKIZCPpp81UjLfaIwKiRwDqk4AzMpX82nrz_S6Lbap-y-4Y-QFOF6unVyyHDV4J5KFMViRiuXu8AMLwfBEQ9IjxVVMqpe-kfXE7dWw/s400/HPIM2735.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-77003056125710712542009-08-17T13:46:00.003-04:002009-08-17T13:49:06.719-04:00Daddy's Girl<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn6TSMeXPPEmzKbEJUczkCvCHQ0cI2YDReRD7Nw37ah6zOMMrcIyEK5clOaOsG9qvsMWavQgeUqrUeuM18AG0DVzyqxXf2pPgNxKBktikWwTlAbnI-_L2NeNRGL8LUAeQP1dhX9Lu8WU/s1600-h/HPIM2737.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370990784388299330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn6TSMeXPPEmzKbEJUczkCvCHQ0cI2YDReRD7Nw37ah6zOMMrcIyEK5clOaOsG9qvsMWavQgeUqrUeuM18AG0DVzyqxXf2pPgNxKBktikWwTlAbnI-_L2NeNRGL8LUAeQP1dhX9Lu8WU/s400/HPIM2737.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">If you can't see her pathetic little ass, click the picture for larger view. It's like "Where's Waldo?" with a little shit head chihuahua. Oh, and her daddy is being pretty worthless, too, as you can see. It's a wonder the house is as together as it is...</div><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-67178418194875826582009-08-11T11:53:00.004-04:002009-08-11T11:58:17.847-04:00Lake Jocassee, SC Dive Boat Charter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1Jqwlsm9Wdxy_K29p_w03XCYnm3tA08ny8ccwRqFf8fBbcZ2E0s1J8TBIBQblCEiKn6K6CqmDFskTrAlOEK3rILO_6YTt9HUaYkX03lzX2WY96xU4BFC9OUhh_klcjLkfD4Djg-ACsw/s1600-h/HPIM2713.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368729296875756514" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 223px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1Jqwlsm9Wdxy_K29p_w03XCYnm3tA08ny8ccwRqFf8fBbcZ2E0s1J8TBIBQblCEiKn6K6CqmDFskTrAlOEK3rILO_6YTt9HUaYkX03lzX2WY96xU4BFC9OUhh_klcjLkfD4Djg-ACsw/s320/HPIM2713.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">This dive almost wasn't. This mask is mine. It shattered 15 minutes before we were supposed to load the boat. Because the mask had my prescription in it, I wore my glasses. Even though I thought about bringing my contacts, I decided I didn't need them and left them at my dad's--an hour and a half from the dive site. Needless to say we didn't make that 9AM boat. We drove all the way back to Dad's, got my contacts, drove to a dive shop, bought a new mask, and drove all the way back to Jocassee to make the 3PM boat. I should be mad that I wasted a $150 mask (including prescription), but I'm grateful that it didn't happen underwater. I also have to think it happened for a reason--that we weren't supposed to make that 9AM dive. Who knows. But, come 3PM, we were headed to load the boat!</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoCS8WuhJtj7PX_-vD8IemRgRbl24oq9nAekDzGIiKFfrPU4MIZbMoo-6sJIVjonm3FXOUKoPXOnoD1lKwRjRZr5Mms_7Q8pYnrc4cuX4SrUUtsg1dUCTgAPIPi7JImNS9KsafyxXXjs/s1600-h/HPIM2711.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368729128180002226" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 241px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoCS8WuhJtj7PX_-vD8IemRgRbl24oq9nAekDzGIiKFfrPU4MIZbMoo-6sJIVjonm3FXOUKoPXOnoD1lKwRjRZr5Mms_7Q8pYnrc4cuX4SrUUtsg1dUCTgAPIPi7JImNS9KsafyxXXjs/s320/HPIM2711.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">The beautiful rocky and sandy shore surrounded by nothing but banjo playing BF Egypt forests was a little cumbersome when lugging dive gear. We had to lug all our crap down this little rocky trail--and then drag ourselves back up it for the next load. Plus, we had to take it all back up the hill. Not fun.</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7QIQmhMhgLblXYMBR9GMMz6BMIYKL4pVz8uXWuhziGb-PV8ibjP5wjCLVNMXD6NT60jauyEuwd_Yk6DwM_dK_CwV6Dimoo6D4Pva5dJJtYYL8SZeH6GPki2f9TALTkxPIQopTEyj9s0/s1600-h/HPIM2708.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368728853752024290" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 209px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7QIQmhMhgLblXYMBR9GMMz6BMIYKL4pVz8uXWuhziGb-PV8ibjP5wjCLVNMXD6NT60jauyEuwd_Yk6DwM_dK_CwV6Dimoo6D4Pva5dJJtYYL8SZeH6GPki2f9TALTkxPIQopTEyj9s0/s320/HPIM2708.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">I'm lucky, though. I have a hot ass pack mule of a husband who loves me enough to drag all my shit around!</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfNuzy_Gttl1UFjsTy6Q5OEzGP8YZDDTzWJQLJ_3F2qIBDwabNwfzv-oKlPKmeib8sRRcoNOvbCl4B_3wildNf07EEjbQxTRNAjde4HpoBWWixm4EfNBq6_rj6gUFny_yVOKKmct1ZjY/s1600-h/HPIM2706.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368728667199862834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 241px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfNuzy_Gttl1UFjsTy6Q5OEzGP8YZDDTzWJQLJ_3F2qIBDwabNwfzv-oKlPKmeib8sRRcoNOvbCl4B_3wildNf07EEjbQxTRNAjde4HpoBWWixm4EfNBq6_rj6gUFny_yVOKKmct1ZjY/s320/HPIM2706.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">Not to mention that the scenery was breathtaking when you finally got all your crap situated and had a moment to look around. It was a mountainy area that just looked like a painting from our loading area. The trees were so green they almost looked fake. Even if you don't want to dive, this lake is spectacular. The water is clear and sandy--not muddy like Georgia lakes. It's very rocky, but I think that helps keep it more clear. It's well worth a trip, even for a non-diver.</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXLApbujImfPzefE8Zx-rmMHO43iWBFo1nhbpNsl__P6fBTfJLse8_CL3bxJKMWuz80NXJfmMr6bVmf5HLeYHfXdgQfUXx91_zeLPf8PGK6Ng9Haq4O11fa9B6SmZiC-hAS78sUtiCb8/s1600-h/HPIM2705.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368728391223145570" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 241px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXLApbujImfPzefE8Zx-rmMHO43iWBFo1nhbpNsl__P6fBTfJLse8_CL3bxJKMWuz80NXJfmMr6bVmf5HLeYHfXdgQfUXx91_zeLPf8PGK6Ng9Haq4O11fa9B6SmZiC-hAS78sUtiCb8/s320/HPIM2705.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">Finally, we made it on the boat from the Scuba Shop in Spartenburg. They have a large pontoon and two smaller pontoons like this one. They are full service--providing tanks, fills, and rental gear. It is $25 per person for two-tank dives if you provide filled tanks. It's $40 if they provide the tanks. It's a great price either way. And, they cooked us corn dogs on the grill! Plus, we got watermelon! Mike, Cory, Dee, and the whole crew were awesome. They are super helpful, nice, and friendly. The first dive was to some wrecks and junk in the lake. Everything is connected by ropes, making it easy to find everything and very enjoyable. The visibility is good for a lake or quarry, but a lot of people had been there before us stirring shit up. It was still great. The second dive was a drift dive along the rocky wall near the wrecks. It was a cool dive which will prepare you for the ocean, and there are lots of fishies.</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1zaygo5ueEmB4kS0Dkx74JW06Lse97kQm-crk6ZuDy-nhbqwpFlwG45GVqDHGjmhl_90TIVuS4pHDo7lBFL6RpngYL-wx9uO3Pw0gtWkav2Xr2xmQG2r6PUNxTaTsola0AHCkK-DAkA/s1600-h/HPIM2717.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368728147441246290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 210px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1zaygo5ueEmB4kS0Dkx74JW06Lse97kQm-crk6ZuDy-nhbqwpFlwG45GVqDHGjmhl_90TIVuS4pHDo7lBFL6RpngYL-wx9uO3Pw0gtWkav2Xr2xmQG2r6PUNxTaTsola0AHCkK-DAkA/s320/HPIM2717.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">After we drug ourselves and all our crap back up the hill (see above), we were taking it easy, sharing the story of the shattered mask (for which we were celebrities). I noticed this cool walking stick on a nearby car. I had to take a picture. It was freakin' cool!. I highly recommend Lake Jocasee for fun of any kind on the lake, but I think it is a great place to dive. If you have never dove Lake Jocassee, call the Dive Shop. We highly recommend them, as we were immensely impressed. Plus, they take you to the dive sites, and you will never find this shit on your own! .</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" /></div>Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2290076299105113968.post-36592942155004356922009-06-24T19:02:00.001-04:002009-06-24T19:02:37.222-04:00Barney Fife is Alive and Well in Atlanta<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZFWbfEUbybhouN1j_6TtwcadnnEMCiOi4QCDMNhHmOAbl2ewO7ijj4sLz6GHf73Cc_f0SNO62Cp5nOhy3MGJP79xKP7F8hyphenhypheneZ_iOTL3e_SsY0YYlW3N3M91-cGxsQ8gZgiRDDCUHWJo/s1600-h/Barney-Fife.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351031089258847250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZFWbfEUbybhouN1j_6TtwcadnnEMCiOi4QCDMNhHmOAbl2ewO7ijj4sLz6GHf73Cc_f0SNO62Cp5nOhy3MGJP79xKP7F8hyphenhypheneZ_iOTL3e_SsY0YYlW3N3M91-cGxsQ8gZgiRDDCUHWJo/s400/Barney-Fife.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">According to <a href="http://www.cbsatlanta.com/news/19831367/detail.html?taf=lnta">CBS Atlanta</a>, <strong>Barney Fife</strong> is working for Atlanta PD. Imagine if you will, a conversation much like this:</div><div align="justify"><blockquote><div align="justify">Chief: "So, uh, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">where'd</span> you say that gun was?"</div><div align="justify">Green: "Well, uh, I think I might have left it in my trunk."</div><div align="justify">Chief: "Well, is it in there now?"</div><div align="justify">Green: "Well, uh, no."</div><div align="justify">Chief: "So, how did it get out of the trunk?"</div><div align="justify">Green: "Uh, well, if you must know, the crack dealer took it when I didn't pay up."</div></blockquote></div><div align="justify"><strong><em>No shit.</em></strong> </div><br /><div align="justify">Biggest issue here: <blockquote><div align="justify">"Atlanta police officials said in a statement Monday that they are still looking for the gun. 'At this time we are not commenting on the drug testing. The officer is suspended with pay pending a hearing with the chief of police,' the statement said."</div></blockquote></div><div align="justify"><strong>What the fuck?</strong> Why are they paying him while they investigate his <em>positive</em> cocaine test and <em>loss</em> of his work weapon? Seriously. </div><div align="justify"></div><br /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3099020122_bdbf104814_o.png" />Linzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09928489195565508544noreply@blogger.com2