Just a few years ago, I sat in front of my TV and watched as a grateful nation said farewell to President Reagan. Who could forget the private moments of tribute that were now open to the world? Lady Margaret Thatcher, against medical advice, came over from England and participated in both services. She and President Reagan had formed a strong friendship, and the paid tribute to that friend and world leader with a reverent, humble, and loving bow at his grave site. Who could forget the dignity of Nancy Reagan during the official services as she had to keep her composure as "First Lady" and not Ronnie's wife? Finally in California, she was able to let her grief show as she held the casket and let the tears flow.
So, this evening, we watch similar moments as President Ford is laid to rest. Before he is returned home, he and Betty Ford again belong to the nation first. President Ford was not elected, but assumed office during a dark period in our history. We were a nation who needed healing and unity. His kindness, quiet strength, candor, compassion, and courage to make the tough decisions are his legacy. Political analysts say that his pardoning of Nixon cost him the election. Maybe they're right. But he pardoned Nixon out of compassion for the nation. We needed healing from the controversy. We needed reassurance from fear that our government could be weakened. In a quiet and deliberate speech and with the stroke of a pen mightier than any sword, this is what he gave us.
As I watched a frail and grieving Mrs. Ford being so tenderly cared for by the escort colonel, I saw the same dignity as Nancy Reagan, and I felt the same pain and exhaustion that she must be feeling so that she can allow the nation to say farewell. Only when the family returns home to the burial site can she become Betty Ford and say her farewell to the man she loved for 58 years.
President Ford, thank you for your character. Mrs. Ford, thank you for dealing openly with issues that "polite society" wouldn't deal with. Thank you for saving countless lives by making people aware of breast cancer and addiction. Thank you both for 865 days of healing and honor.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Dr. Limbaugh?
First, let me state clearly that the celebs are far too involved in politics and have far too little knowledge. That said, here goes.
Rush, your comments about Michael J. Fox's kinetic jerks in his political ad were more than out of line. Do you or your loved ones suffer from Parkinonism? Do you have a medical degree, and are you a Board certified neurologist? Come on, we all know that you hate, abhor, detest, etc. anything to do with the Democratic party, but have you become so stupid from your STIFF cocktail of OxyContin and Viagra that your brain is clogged?
So, all of a sudden, you're caught with your pants down again because a doctor has explained what should have been obvious, and you offer a pitiful attempt at an apology. Too late. Go swallow a couple of Viagra and amuse yourself.
Rush, your comments about Michael J. Fox's kinetic jerks in his political ad were more than out of line. Do you or your loved ones suffer from Parkinonism? Do you have a medical degree, and are you a Board certified neurologist? Come on, we all know that you hate, abhor, detest, etc. anything to do with the Democratic party, but have you become so stupid from your STIFF cocktail of OxyContin and Viagra that your brain is clogged?
So, all of a sudden, you're caught with your pants down again because a doctor has explained what should have been obvious, and you offer a pitiful attempt at an apology. Too late. Go swallow a couple of Viagra and amuse yourself.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
MEMO
To: Mayor Hole-in-the-Ground-Nagin and the "Celebs" who know so much as to want us to pull out of Iraq before the job is finished:
From: Someone who gives a damn about our country.
Subject: It AIN'T OVER!!!!!!!
Remember what happened on September 11, 2001? The terrorists finished the botched job from several years earlier and added a few other sites to their list. Mayor Nagin had called Ground Zero "a hole in the ground." Celebrities (who, after all, know so much because they're on the big screen) have called us to get out of Iraq and come home, heads hanging - just like from Korea and Viet Nam.
In case any of them happens to read this, please see the attached news article. Ground Zero, as I stated before, is hallowed ground. More remains have been discovered.
http://www.comcast.net/news/national/index.jsp?cat=DOMESTIC&fn=/2006/10/22/504297.html&cvqh=itn_groundzero
Don't you think we owe it to those who are still unaccounted for and their families to do exactly what President Bush said? He told us that it would not be quick, but that we would "hunt them down and smoke them out."
Any questions? Then kindly go to your nearest recruiting office and take a little trip to Iraq.
From: Someone who gives a damn about our country.
Subject: It AIN'T OVER!!!!!!!
Remember what happened on September 11, 2001? The terrorists finished the botched job from several years earlier and added a few other sites to their list. Mayor Nagin had called Ground Zero "a hole in the ground." Celebrities (who, after all, know so much because they're on the big screen) have called us to get out of Iraq and come home, heads hanging - just like from Korea and Viet Nam.
In case any of them happens to read this, please see the attached news article. Ground Zero, as I stated before, is hallowed ground. More remains have been discovered.
http://www.comcast.net/news/national/index.jsp?cat=DOMESTIC&fn=/2006/10/22/504297.html&cvqh=itn_groundzero
Don't you think we owe it to those who are still unaccounted for and their families to do exactly what President Bush said? He told us that it would not be quick, but that we would "hunt them down and smoke them out."
Any questions? Then kindly go to your nearest recruiting office and take a little trip to Iraq.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Size matters? Exactly how?
First we have Twiggy (for those of us old enough to remainder the emaciated model from England, who thankfully now looks like a real woman with some curves. Then we had Starr Jones, who underwent gastric bypass and all kinds of other interventions to get thin. In between them have come numerous men and woman, all trying to get the "perfect" figure. They've starved themselves, gone under the knife, worked out 7 days a week, swallowed pills, fasted, etc.... How many have maintained their new figures beyond a year?
Okay, then here's my story. I've been up and down the scale (musical metaphor intended because I'm a singer). Did the strict diet and go to the gym routine. Wore smaller sized clothes, but looked gaunt and sick - and was always getting sick. Then started eating normally, and back came the pounds and a larger wardrobe. Story of my life.
A few years ago, I was at a relatively low weight (for me) and wearing so-called "normal" sized clothes (top range of normal, you understand). I had auditioned for a professional choral group that also had a Renaissance ensemble. When my second year with the ensemble rolled around, I asked whether or not I was to be included in the Renaissance group. "Well, we haven't offered you a contract because you have to fit into the costume." Sheesh! Never mind that I could SING and that I did look good on stage. Well, I called their bluff and squeezed into what I was told was the "last costume they had." Stained, ratty, practically falling apart - and smelling of an old barn, which I found out was where it had been stored. A magically talented seamstress found a few seams to let out and managed to make the gown presentable. Ta-da! I'd made it. I spent the entire year watching every bite that went into my mouth, knowing that if the costume no longer fit, I was out. Ya think that makes singing fun? But at least I've got a picture of myself in that gown and performed with the group.
After 2 seasons of with this group, for which I will always be grateful because of the wonderful music I got to sing, I realized that what I was paid for rehearsals and concerts was actually costing me money in terms of time lost from my real job. I was exhausted, and I was getting sick all the time - sound familiar? I resigned. Not an easy decision.
I've had to face the fact that a number of my "smaller sized" outfits don't fit and that 1X is now becoming a friend again. The 20 pounds I've gained really don't show - too much. My doctor is not unhappy with me. I've avoided the colds that used to plague me every couple of months.
More importantly, I'm happy in my own skin, and I enjoy what I eat. Okay, I don't always exercise great dietary discretion, but I no longer pick at food and live on liquid meals for lunch. I get at least a mile of walking everyday and will be back to water aerobics and swimming soon. Some weight may drop off again, and it may not. The important thing is that I like how I look. I like what I'm wearing. And no one will ever base my participation in an activity based on my size.
So, don't let anyone else do it to you!
Peace and blessings. Now, where did I hide that chocolate............
Okay, then here's my story. I've been up and down the scale (musical metaphor intended because I'm a singer). Did the strict diet and go to the gym routine. Wore smaller sized clothes, but looked gaunt and sick - and was always getting sick. Then started eating normally, and back came the pounds and a larger wardrobe. Story of my life.
A few years ago, I was at a relatively low weight (for me) and wearing so-called "normal" sized clothes (top range of normal, you understand). I had auditioned for a professional choral group that also had a Renaissance ensemble. When my second year with the ensemble rolled around, I asked whether or not I was to be included in the Renaissance group. "Well, we haven't offered you a contract because you have to fit into the costume." Sheesh! Never mind that I could SING and that I did look good on stage. Well, I called their bluff and squeezed into what I was told was the "last costume they had." Stained, ratty, practically falling apart - and smelling of an old barn, which I found out was where it had been stored. A magically talented seamstress found a few seams to let out and managed to make the gown presentable. Ta-da! I'd made it. I spent the entire year watching every bite that went into my mouth, knowing that if the costume no longer fit, I was out. Ya think that makes singing fun? But at least I've got a picture of myself in that gown and performed with the group.
After 2 seasons of with this group, for which I will always be grateful because of the wonderful music I got to sing, I realized that what I was paid for rehearsals and concerts was actually costing me money in terms of time lost from my real job. I was exhausted, and I was getting sick all the time - sound familiar? I resigned. Not an easy decision.
I've had to face the fact that a number of my "smaller sized" outfits don't fit and that 1X is now becoming a friend again. The 20 pounds I've gained really don't show - too much. My doctor is not unhappy with me. I've avoided the colds that used to plague me every couple of months.
More importantly, I'm happy in my own skin, and I enjoy what I eat. Okay, I don't always exercise great dietary discretion, but I no longer pick at food and live on liquid meals for lunch. I get at least a mile of walking everyday and will be back to water aerobics and swimming soon. Some weight may drop off again, and it may not. The important thing is that I like how I look. I like what I'm wearing. And no one will ever base my participation in an activity based on my size.
So, don't let anyone else do it to you!
Peace and blessings. Now, where did I hide that chocolate............
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Let's hear it for the boys of summer!
This is too good not to pass on. I'm privileged to know two of the people involved in this project, and what this group of youngsters is doing is beyond belief. They're giving an amazing gift and are going to come away from the experience far richer than they ever dreamed. So, I hope you can click on the link to read the article, and I hope that you will want to be part of their efforts.
http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/article.asp?article=72113&paper=62&cat=104
The correct address for sending donations is:
PINE RIDGE NATIVE AMERICAN RELIEF FUND
13033 FARTHINGDALE DRIVE
HERNDON, VA 20171
http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/article.asp?article=72113&paper=62&cat=104
The correct address for sending donations is:
PINE RIDGE NATIVE AMERICAN RELIEF FUND
13033 FARTHINGDALE DRIVE
HERNDON, VA 20171
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
My name is Barbra. Shut the F--- up!
When will the "entertainment industry" get it? The stage is NOT a political arena - unless it is the venue for a political debate or a convention.
Ms. Streisand, like the idiot Dixie Chicks, had to shoot off her rather substantially sized mouth on a topic about which she obviously knows little - and did this during an overly-priced CONCERT! Hellooooooo....... Are you listening, Ms. Streisand? CONCERT - one of those things for which people pay scads of money to be entertained. It's your singing voice people want to hear. And yes, please speak to the audience. Tell stories about your life. Tell jokes. But why do a sketch that you know is going to be politically offensive? Your concert stage is NOT the time or place. So, my bravo goes to the heckler who had the good sense to teach YOU some manners!
Okay, before you politically correct, card-carrying liberals get the wrong idea, free speech is exactly that - free speech. That is one of the freedoms guaranteed to us. It is a privilege. However, privilege also carries responsibility and good taste. Her sketch was irresponsible and in bad taste. No matter what one's political views, it is in poor taste and displays nothing more than arrogance to use your concert to malign the President of the United States. Uh, Ms. Streisand, remember September 11, 2001? Remember US history at all? When the Constitution was written, no one was thinking that anyone would be so stupid and have so little judgment as to take the privilege of free speech and mix it with irresponsibility. Hell, free speech is why I'm able to tell you, Ms. Streisand, that I don't care how good a singing voice you have or how amazingly talented you are as an actress and a director.....SHUT THE F... UP!
Ms. Streisand, like the idiot Dixie Chicks, had to shoot off her rather substantially sized mouth on a topic about which she obviously knows little - and did this during an overly-priced CONCERT! Hellooooooo....... Are you listening, Ms. Streisand? CONCERT - one of those things for which people pay scads of money to be entertained. It's your singing voice people want to hear. And yes, please speak to the audience. Tell stories about your life. Tell jokes. But why do a sketch that you know is going to be politically offensive? Your concert stage is NOT the time or place. So, my bravo goes to the heckler who had the good sense to teach YOU some manners!
Okay, before you politically correct, card-carrying liberals get the wrong idea, free speech is exactly that - free speech. That is one of the freedoms guaranteed to us. It is a privilege. However, privilege also carries responsibility and good taste. Her sketch was irresponsible and in bad taste. No matter what one's political views, it is in poor taste and displays nothing more than arrogance to use your concert to malign the President of the United States. Uh, Ms. Streisand, remember September 11, 2001? Remember US history at all? When the Constitution was written, no one was thinking that anyone would be so stupid and have so little judgment as to take the privilege of free speech and mix it with irresponsibility. Hell, free speech is why I'm able to tell you, Ms. Streisand, that I don't care how good a singing voice you have or how amazingly talented you are as an actress and a director.....SHUT THE F... UP!
Monday, October 02, 2006
City of Brother Love?
Welcome to Philadelphia, where just this week we buried a 5-year-old victim of yet another couple of hot-headed idiots with illegal guns having a shoot-out. Cashae was safely buckled in the back-seat of her mom's care, headed home from school when 2 bullets came through the back of the car, ending her young life. No one knows what the argument was about. And NO ONE who saw the gun-toting hoods will speak up because of the "Don't Snitch" campaign.
A recent magazine article defamed Camden, NJ for having had 17 murders last year. Hell - I'd be safer there. Philadelphia, as of this writing is bosting 287 murders this year - yup, read it again, 287! All kinds of neighborhood organizations are staging marches and rallies. The TV news broadcasts teary-eyed relatives begging for the killing to stop. Neighorhood men are calling for the guns to be removed from the streets.
With this seeming community mobilization, what's the problem? THESE PEOPLE ARE LOOKING TO THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEM!!!!! Hellooooooo???? The government already has laws about illegal weapons. The government has already had the "turn in your gun for gift vouchers." Guess what. These are ILLEGAL weapons that anyone can get his/her hands on. It is NOT a government problem. It is a PEOPLE problem. You want guns off the street, then SNITCH!!!! You see someone brandishing a pistol.... SNITCH! How many more Cashae's can we take? How many more tears have to be shed?
So, welcome to Philadelphia, tourists. Required dress: bullet-proof vest.
A recent magazine article defamed Camden, NJ for having had 17 murders last year. Hell - I'd be safer there. Philadelphia, as of this writing is bosting 287 murders this year - yup, read it again, 287! All kinds of neighborhood organizations are staging marches and rallies. The TV news broadcasts teary-eyed relatives begging for the killing to stop. Neighorhood men are calling for the guns to be removed from the streets.
With this seeming community mobilization, what's the problem? THESE PEOPLE ARE LOOKING TO THE GOVERNMENT TO TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEM!!!!! Hellooooooo???? The government already has laws about illegal weapons. The government has already had the "turn in your gun for gift vouchers." Guess what. These are ILLEGAL weapons that anyone can get his/her hands on. It is NOT a government problem. It is a PEOPLE problem. You want guns off the street, then SNITCH!!!! You see someone brandishing a pistol.... SNITCH! How many more Cashae's can we take? How many more tears have to be shed?
So, welcome to Philadelphia, tourists. Required dress: bullet-proof vest.
Monday, September 18, 2006
PS: Nice going, Pope!
So, anyone read the news today? Thanks to the idiotic and ill-thought comments of a pope whose mouth is larger than his brain, there are more protests and violence in the Middle East. Already strained relationships among Muslims and the rest of the world have been set back YEARS because of the comments of a white-robed man insulated by gilt walls and luxury.
Back here in the good ole USA, the evangelists and fundamentalists are preaching on the streets and having a field day. They're talking about "the day of atonement" and blah-blah-blah......
The Pope is an irresponsible, pompous ASS, who does not recognize that, like it or not, he is looked upon as a world leader (Goddess, help us). What he says can and will be mis-quoted, misunderstood, or just plain stupid. Pick one of the above, and you will be correct.
Keep an eye on the news, folks. It's gonna get worse before it gets better.
Back here in the good ole USA, the evangelists and fundamentalists are preaching on the streets and having a field day. They're talking about "the day of atonement" and blah-blah-blah......
The Pope is an irresponsible, pompous ASS, who does not recognize that, like it or not, he is looked upon as a world leader (Goddess, help us). What he says can and will be mis-quoted, misunderstood, or just plain stupid. Pick one of the above, and you will be correct.
Keep an eye on the news, folks. It's gonna get worse before it gets better.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Pope and shoe leather....
Open mouth, insert foot!
Pope Benedict allegedly quoted from a 14th century text, stating that Islam converted by the sword (I apologize for the abbreviation here). Then he issued an apology that he was sorry the quote was misunderstood by the Muslim community.
Result: 2 churches so far have been torched - by Muslims!
To be fair, before one goes casting stones, one should take a good, long, hard look into the mirror of his own soul and his own tradition. Look at the recent news in the Catholic Church! How many young people have been sexually assaulted numerous times and submitted because of something "Father said." The "Church" is still trying to cover this over rather than hand over the known sex offenders to legal authorities so that true justice can be dispensed. Instead, many of them are simply "relieved of priestly duties" and then assigned elsewhere, still supported by the Church - in other words, still the beneficiaries of money coming out of the offering plates, much of it still contributed by the victims!
Okay, while I am NOT defending the Islam belief of jihad, the elephant in the room needs to be acknowledged. What other religion has as its symbol A MAN BEING TORTURED TO DEATH ON A CROSS??? Is this not the symbol of violence and cruelty beyond belief? Remember the Crusades when thousands of children were sent to their death in the name of the Church? Remember the Spanish Inquisition? Remember the WOMEN who have been stoned, drowned, burned, and worse for being single mothers (some at the hands of their local ministers) or being accused (not proven) of being witches. How about the kids in school having to pay a quarter to a "buy a pagan baby out of Purgatory?" Remember the KKK - a lot of good ole church-goin' boys. How hard has the church (all sects) worked to convert the pagans - by the sword or by brain-washing. Sounds like a jihad to me - and it's not all Catholic.
Pope Benedict, please open your eyes beyond the gilt walls of the Vatican and look at reality. Before you pontificate, make sure you know what you're saying and that you've sufficiently cleaned your own home first.
Pope Benedict allegedly quoted from a 14th century text, stating that Islam converted by the sword (I apologize for the abbreviation here). Then he issued an apology that he was sorry the quote was misunderstood by the Muslim community.
Result: 2 churches so far have been torched - by Muslims!
To be fair, before one goes casting stones, one should take a good, long, hard look into the mirror of his own soul and his own tradition. Look at the recent news in the Catholic Church! How many young people have been sexually assaulted numerous times and submitted because of something "Father said." The "Church" is still trying to cover this over rather than hand over the known sex offenders to legal authorities so that true justice can be dispensed. Instead, many of them are simply "relieved of priestly duties" and then assigned elsewhere, still supported by the Church - in other words, still the beneficiaries of money coming out of the offering plates, much of it still contributed by the victims!
Okay, while I am NOT defending the Islam belief of jihad, the elephant in the room needs to be acknowledged. What other religion has as its symbol A MAN BEING TORTURED TO DEATH ON A CROSS??? Is this not the symbol of violence and cruelty beyond belief? Remember the Crusades when thousands of children were sent to their death in the name of the Church? Remember the Spanish Inquisition? Remember the WOMEN who have been stoned, drowned, burned, and worse for being single mothers (some at the hands of their local ministers) or being accused (not proven) of being witches. How about the kids in school having to pay a quarter to a "buy a pagan baby out of Purgatory?" Remember the KKK - a lot of good ole church-goin' boys. How hard has the church (all sects) worked to convert the pagans - by the sword or by brain-washing. Sounds like a jihad to me - and it's not all Catholic.
Pope Benedict, please open your eyes beyond the gilt walls of the Vatican and look at reality. Before you pontificate, make sure you know what you're saying and that you've sufficiently cleaned your own home first.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
M.D. USED to stand for "Medical Doctor."
Am I getting old or just unwilling to accept the new standards of mediocrity running rampant in our medical system?
This is true, folks. Most hospitals and medical practices are now run by MBAs. These are the young, well-dressed manager-types who spent years in school and virtually no time in the real world. They graduate with diplomas and a head-full of textbook rules and plunge right in to managing the hospital or practice who hires them. Hey - an MBA means that this person knows everything about everything!
IMPORTANT: DOCTORS DO NOT RUN THEIR PRACTICES ANY LONGER!!!!!! They are employees with the same status as the receptionist at the front desk. They have quotas to make - a minimum number of procedures to be performed in a given period, a certain number of patients to see.
Case in point. I recently went to a dermatology practice - very efficiently run. The medical assistant ushered me into an exam room and proceeded to ask the usual screening medical questions and enter everything into a computer - no more charts. The doctor came in, read what was on the computer, asked me a couple more questions, gave me a quick "look-over," and started typing (doctors are now medical transcriptionists). He gave me a diagnosis, some samples of cream, and I was outta there. Total time in the room: 6 minutes, time with doctor 2 minutes. Diagnosis: NOT THE RIGHT ONE! But I bet he made his quota!
Return visit: Same scenario. However, I was to have 2 lesions biopsied because they were not the same in appearance. He looked at my diseased arm and pronounced that only one lesion would be biopsied. I pointed out to him that they were different in appearance. He still insisted on 1. Okay - no alcohol prep, injection with lidocaine, no time to numb up, and he does a 10-second punch biopsy, quick stitch, a bandaid. Total time for procedure: 90 seconds! "I'll call you when the results come in, and just come back in a week so we can remove the stich." Another quota met!
Follow-up visit: A more experienced doctor whom I know told me to call to find out whether I would be charged for the stitch removal because it should come under surgical care. HA! This dermatologist documented on his computer that I was to come in for an office visit to "Discuss" the biopsy and further treatment - hence, another charge. I reminded the receptionist what was really said at the time of the visit and told her to cancel the appointment, send me the report, and that I was making other plans. Quota not met!
I called my GP and relayed this saga. He is no longer sending patients to this young cutie. I removed my own stitch. And when I get the biopsy report, my GP and I are going to find a doctor who still understands "M.D." or "D.O." to assume my care.
Message? Stop settling for being railroaded back and forth to the office so that the doctor can bill for more services and office visits and meet his quota. Insist on all of the care you need at one time. If you're not happy, COMPLAIN! Call your own primary doctor and report the problem. Call your insurance company.
And then get a blog and post so that enough of us will get the hint and start to get what we pay for.
This is true, folks. Most hospitals and medical practices are now run by MBAs. These are the young, well-dressed manager-types who spent years in school and virtually no time in the real world. They graduate with diplomas and a head-full of textbook rules and plunge right in to managing the hospital or practice who hires them. Hey - an MBA means that this person knows everything about everything!
IMPORTANT: DOCTORS DO NOT RUN THEIR PRACTICES ANY LONGER!!!!!! They are employees with the same status as the receptionist at the front desk. They have quotas to make - a minimum number of procedures to be performed in a given period, a certain number of patients to see.
Case in point. I recently went to a dermatology practice - very efficiently run. The medical assistant ushered me into an exam room and proceeded to ask the usual screening medical questions and enter everything into a computer - no more charts. The doctor came in, read what was on the computer, asked me a couple more questions, gave me a quick "look-over," and started typing (doctors are now medical transcriptionists). He gave me a diagnosis, some samples of cream, and I was outta there. Total time in the room: 6 minutes, time with doctor 2 minutes. Diagnosis: NOT THE RIGHT ONE! But I bet he made his quota!
Return visit: Same scenario. However, I was to have 2 lesions biopsied because they were not the same in appearance. He looked at my diseased arm and pronounced that only one lesion would be biopsied. I pointed out to him that they were different in appearance. He still insisted on 1. Okay - no alcohol prep, injection with lidocaine, no time to numb up, and he does a 10-second punch biopsy, quick stitch, a bandaid. Total time for procedure: 90 seconds! "I'll call you when the results come in, and just come back in a week so we can remove the stich." Another quota met!
Follow-up visit: A more experienced doctor whom I know told me to call to find out whether I would be charged for the stitch removal because it should come under surgical care. HA! This dermatologist documented on his computer that I was to come in for an office visit to "Discuss" the biopsy and further treatment - hence, another charge. I reminded the receptionist what was really said at the time of the visit and told her to cancel the appointment, send me the report, and that I was making other plans. Quota not met!
I called my GP and relayed this saga. He is no longer sending patients to this young cutie. I removed my own stitch. And when I get the biopsy report, my GP and I are going to find a doctor who still understands "M.D." or "D.O." to assume my care.
Message? Stop settling for being railroaded back and forth to the office so that the doctor can bill for more services and office visits and meet his quota. Insist on all of the care you need at one time. If you're not happy, COMPLAIN! Call your own primary doctor and report the problem. Call your insurance company.
And then get a blog and post so that enough of us will get the hint and start to get what we pay for.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Blog Comments - NO JUNK PLEASE!
I just posted a tribute to the late Steve Irwin and was moved to see two comments within a very short period after this post.
Much to my absolute DISGUST, both comments were from an entity known as "ASKINSTOO," telling me, "Very nice.... and to click here to make money at home!"
While comments to my blogs are greatly appreciated, I WILL NOT ACCEPT SPAM OR ADVERTISING, AND ANY SUCH JUNK WILL BE QUICKLY DELETED AND THE MISCREANT GUILTY OF SUCH POSTS WILL BE REPORTED!
This blog is my own personal space, where all are welcome - except for sales pitches.
Much to my absolute DISGUST, both comments were from an entity known as "ASKINSTOO," telling me, "Very nice.... and to click here to make money at home!"
While comments to my blogs are greatly appreciated, I WILL NOT ACCEPT SPAM OR ADVERTISING, AND ANY SUCH JUNK WILL BE QUICKLY DELETED AND THE MISCREANT GUILTY OF SUCH POSTS WILL BE REPORTED!
This blog is my own personal space, where all are welcome - except for sales pitches.
Steve Irwin
While to date I've not been a fanatic about the Crocodile Hunter, I think it only fitting to pay tribute to what he has done for Mother Earth and for Her creatures. Aside from his seeming wreckless showmanship, when it came to dealing with creatures above water, it seemed that he could read their minds, knowing when to jump out of harm's way (sometimes with only a split-second to spare) and having the ability to reassure a trapped animal that he was there to help. He and his wife founded a refuge and saved numerous animals from greedy trophy hunters. His TV programs, though a bit overly-sensational for my taste, caught the attention of kids and adults and perhaps opened a few eyes to the wonders of nature.
My heart goes out to his wife and family and to his film-crew family, especially those who witnessed his death. He and his colleagues had predicted that if he were to meet with tragedy, it would be under water, an area where he was less familiar and had far less control. Still, he chose to take us on another adventure, which sadly ended his life. He died doing what he loved best - getting up close and personal with Mother Nature and Her creatures.
All I can say is "Crikey! What a ride you took us on." Peace and blessings on your journey.
My heart goes out to his wife and family and to his film-crew family, especially those who witnessed his death. He and his colleagues had predicted that if he were to meet with tragedy, it would be under water, an area where he was less familiar and had far less control. Still, he chose to take us on another adventure, which sadly ended his life. He died doing what he loved best - getting up close and personal with Mother Nature and Her creatures.
All I can say is "Crikey! What a ride you took us on." Peace and blessings on your journey.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
"Hole in the ground or HOLE IN HIS HEAD!
Nagin rides again! A while back, he called the site of the Towers in NY a "...hole in the ground." Then on a recent visit to Ground Zero, he made a pathetic attempt at an apology. If anyone ever doubted his ignorance or came to his defense post-Katrina, that remark alone should be a huge wake-up call. This man is a dangerous idiot!
The World Trade Center site in NY is sacred ground, not only because of the thousands of innocent US citizens who perished because of an all-out act of war against America, but because of the remnants of those souls that no bull-dozer can remove. No amount of digging or re-building can make it anything other than "hallowed ground."
Obviously, the events of September 11th meant nothing to Nagin at the time and mean nothing today. So, to the people of NOLA who voted for him, you get what you pay for.
Is it too late to get our money back from the Louisiana Purchase?
Attn: All takers - one southern state to be auctioned on EBAY. Buy-it-now price: $0.50!
The World Trade Center site in NY is sacred ground, not only because of the thousands of innocent US citizens who perished because of an all-out act of war against America, but because of the remnants of those souls that no bull-dozer can remove. No amount of digging or re-building can make it anything other than "hallowed ground."
Obviously, the events of September 11th meant nothing to Nagin at the time and mean nothing today. So, to the people of NOLA who voted for him, you get what you pay for.
Is it too late to get our money back from the Louisiana Purchase?
Attn: All takers - one southern state to be auctioned on EBAY. Buy-it-now price: $0.50!
Monday, August 21, 2006
Give us this day......
our daily outrage!
Seems that a Baptist church has fired a woman Sunday school teacher - after having taught successfully for 54 years - because SHE'S A WOMAN!!!!! According to the article, the person responsible for her firing took one sentence out of the Bible and used that as his reason. Isn't it funny how what some term "Sacred" really means, "That which I will use to promote my own agenda." Wonder what this man's mother must think of him. Here's the link so you can read on for yourselves.
Do I need another reason for leaving the church and turning to Wicca?
http://www.comcast.net/news/strange/index.jsp?cat=STRANGE&fn=/2006/08/21/459804.html&cvqh=itn_churchfires
Peace and blessings.
Seems that a Baptist church has fired a woman Sunday school teacher - after having taught successfully for 54 years - because SHE'S A WOMAN!!!!! According to the article, the person responsible for her firing took one sentence out of the Bible and used that as his reason. Isn't it funny how what some term "Sacred" really means, "That which I will use to promote my own agenda." Wonder what this man's mother must think of him. Here's the link so you can read on for yourselves.
Do I need another reason for leaving the church and turning to Wicca?
http://www.comcast.net/news/strange/index.jsp?cat=STRANGE&fn=/2006/08/21/459804.html&cvqh=itn_churchfires
Peace and blessings.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
HATS OFF TO THE UK!
Pip-pip and cheerio and all that to our friends across the Pond for being on the ball and saving thousands of lives. It's obvious to me that their priorities are in keeping people safe and alive and could care less about political correctness. England has a Homeland Security Agency that really works!
Don't get me wrong - I LOVE our country and our Flag. BUT..... Unlike England, it seems that we have failed to learn from history. England got bombed in WWII, and it was merciless. They did not need multiple attacks on their shores to get with the program. We, however, have been the victim of numerous terrorist attacks - from Pearl Harbor on - and are still behind the times. 9/11 NEVER should have happened! That first attack on the World Trade Center should have shaken up the DC politicos, and they should have recognized it for what it was - an all-out ACT OF WAR AGAINST US.
So, to our allies in England, HIP-HIP-HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!
Peace and blessings.
Don't get me wrong - I LOVE our country and our Flag. BUT..... Unlike England, it seems that we have failed to learn from history. England got bombed in WWII, and it was merciless. They did not need multiple attacks on their shores to get with the program. We, however, have been the victim of numerous terrorist attacks - from Pearl Harbor on - and are still behind the times. 9/11 NEVER should have happened! That first attack on the World Trade Center should have shaken up the DC politicos, and they should have recognized it for what it was - an all-out ACT OF WAR AGAINST US.
So, to our allies in England, HIP-HIP-HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!
Peace and blessings.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
KEEP YER MITTS OFF MY MOUSE!
Correct me if I'm wrong on this one - I won't take offense!
Based on an e-mail I received from a relatively reliable source, it seems that Congress is proposing to change Internet access based on - get this - whether or not the user is a BIG company or just an individual. Big companies would get faster access, and the rest of us will simply get what's left over. Say - that's really intelligent! Just think about the people who work at home and depend on a decent speed to receive and transmit work. Nothing like reducing our productivity and income.
Come on, Mr/Ms Congress Person! Is your "in-box" so blasted empty and is your agenda so open that you have to find yet another area in which to meddle? If our elected officials (keyword being elected) bothered to represent those of us who put them into office, don't you think they might be addressing real issues? Duh........ Just take a look at what's going on right here at home, not to mention a WAR! How many American jobs are sent overseas? How many schools are in need of basic things like textbooks and chalk? How many educational programs are being cut - especially anything pertaining to the arts! Need I go any further?
So, KEEP YOUR MITTS AWAY FROM MY MOUSE!!!!!
Peace and blessings.
Based on an e-mail I received from a relatively reliable source, it seems that Congress is proposing to change Internet access based on - get this - whether or not the user is a BIG company or just an individual. Big companies would get faster access, and the rest of us will simply get what's left over. Say - that's really intelligent! Just think about the people who work at home and depend on a decent speed to receive and transmit work. Nothing like reducing our productivity and income.
Come on, Mr/Ms Congress Person! Is your "in-box" so blasted empty and is your agenda so open that you have to find yet another area in which to meddle? If our elected officials (keyword being elected) bothered to represent those of us who put them into office, don't you think they might be addressing real issues? Duh........ Just take a look at what's going on right here at home, not to mention a WAR! How many American jobs are sent overseas? How many schools are in need of basic things like textbooks and chalk? How many educational programs are being cut - especially anything pertaining to the arts! Need I go any further?
So, KEEP YOUR MITTS AWAY FROM MY MOUSE!!!!!
Peace and blessings.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
What about our 4-legged friends?
What a weekend for animals! Over 60 cats were seized from a house a couple of days ago. The owner (?) simply said she was "rescuing them." So far, 11 have been put down, and the SPCA is begging people to come and adopt these dear animals. A psychologist was interviewed about this situation and described a phenomenon known as "animal hoarding." He claims it is an illness or has to do with control issues, the need to control something or someone.
Yes, I agree that it is a control issue - a lack of self-control! There are entirely too many people who have huge numbers of animals that are clearly not getting proper care. Having a pet is a responsibility and a privilege - NOT a right.
A friend of mine recently found a pure-bred huskie roaming the streets and crying. She spent over 30 minutes following this beautiful dog around while she tried to find her home. Posters were plastered all over the neighborhood. Meanwhile, she took the dog to the vet to find out that the dog had given birth within the past 8 weeks and had obviously been pent-up in a garage or other area, had served her purpose, and was no longer needed. The breeders could sell the pups and make their money, so why bother with an 8-year-old dog! My friend paid a few hundred to get the dog checked out, immunized, a flea treatment, etc., and has a few more vet visits to go. But within 2 weeks, this magnificent dog is already changed. Her blue eyes are brighter. Her coat is shiny, and she's beginning to realize that she has found a home.
Why this kind of post? As I look at my own pound rescue, I'm reminded how precious all life is and how our 4-legged friends need to be protected and not hoarded or just used as puppy-making factories to make people rich.
Peace and blessings.
Yes, I agree that it is a control issue - a lack of self-control! There are entirely too many people who have huge numbers of animals that are clearly not getting proper care. Having a pet is a responsibility and a privilege - NOT a right.
A friend of mine recently found a pure-bred huskie roaming the streets and crying. She spent over 30 minutes following this beautiful dog around while she tried to find her home. Posters were plastered all over the neighborhood. Meanwhile, she took the dog to the vet to find out that the dog had given birth within the past 8 weeks and had obviously been pent-up in a garage or other area, had served her purpose, and was no longer needed. The breeders could sell the pups and make their money, so why bother with an 8-year-old dog! My friend paid a few hundred to get the dog checked out, immunized, a flea treatment, etc., and has a few more vet visits to go. But within 2 weeks, this magnificent dog is already changed. Her blue eyes are brighter. Her coat is shiny, and she's beginning to realize that she has found a home.
Why this kind of post? As I look at my own pound rescue, I'm reminded how precious all life is and how our 4-legged friends need to be protected and not hoarded or just used as puppy-making factories to make people rich.
Peace and blessings.
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