I have been blogging pretty steady for over two months now.
I plan to take about a week break to do some other things.
Randy will likely blog a time or two - Sunday and Friday.
We started watching Steven Spielberg's Taken yesterday.
Upcoming week's agenda includes ... miniseries Lost Room,
Stargate (1994 movie), and Alien Nation (1988 movie).
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Maine Earthquakes
Yes, Maine has earthquakes!
We have blogged about it twice now ...
We didn't do it!!! and Again, it wasn't us!
Most are hardly noticed and do no and little damage.
Although I do remember when in high school ...
having a relatively big one that had aftershocks.
It caused a crack in the living room wall.
Here are some great links:
Maine Earthquake Information
Last Earthquake in Maine
Recent New England Earthquakes
(Considered MORE of HUMORE)
We have blogged about it twice now ...
We didn't do it!!! and Again, it wasn't us!
Most are hardly noticed and do no and little damage.
Although I do remember when in high school ...
having a relatively big one that had aftershocks.
It caused a crack in the living room wall.
Here are some great links:
Maine Earthquake Information
Last Earthquake in Maine
Recent New England Earthquakes
(Considered MORE of HUMORE)
Friday, January 25, 2008
AFI Movie Date Night #4
Tonight was Bringing Up Baby (#97), starring Katharine Hepburn & Cary Grant. It's known as one of the best screwball comedies of all time. I can't remember if I'd seen it before but this time I really didn't enjoy it. Maybe it's because I'm not used to seeing Miss Hepburn in such a dingbatty role, but I found her character to be quite annoying. I didn't think much of Cary Grant's performance either. Sure, there are quite a few laughs but there's also quite a few "roll your eyes" moments as well.
Again, it wasn't us!
But I felt the earthquake this time! It happened at 4:21 this morning. But all felt was a little shaking of the bed. It was a 1.7, barely noticeable and was centered only a few miles away.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
The Triangle
We watched The Triangle which originally aired as a tv mini-series.
It is indeed about the Bermuda Triangle and questions why it exists.
It was a very well put together movie with amazing people involved.
The story itself was a collaboration by Bryan Singer and Dean Devlin.
Bryan Singer wrote X-men and X2. Executive producer on House MD.
Dean Devlin wrote and produced Stargate and Independence Day.
The director Craig R. Baxley has directed other tv mini series ...
Steven King's: Storm of the Century and Rose Red.
The actors too were picked for their professionalism and excellence.
The cast of characters includes but not limited to a tycoon,
a four person team, a green peace activist (and family)
as well as military personel and politician.
Sam Neill played the shipping tycoon that hired the four person team
AKF: Jurassic Park's Dr. Alan Grant, Event Horizon's Dr. William Weir
Eric Stoltz played Howard Thomas,
a reporter for supermarket tabloid and expert on Bermuda Triangle.
AKF: Chicago Hope's Dr. Robert Yeats, Anaconda's Dr. Steven Cale
Catherine Bell played Emily Meredith Patterson,
deep ocean resource engineer among other degrees
AKF: JAG's Lt. Col. Sarah 'Mac' MacKenzie
Bruce Davison played Stan Lathem,
an aging man with genuine psychic abilities
AKF: X-Men and X2's Senator Kelly, Kingdom Hospital's Dr. Stegman
Michael E. Rodgers played Bruce Geller,
professor of meteorology, thrill seeker
AKF: American Dreams' Colin (not much to his credit on imdb)
Lou Diamond Phillips played Meeno Paloma,
sole survivor of a Triangle event, nearly kills self
AKF: La Bamba's Ritchie Valens and Young Guns' Jose Chavez
The main characters are explained at wikipedia's The Triange (tv mini series).
Or head on over to the Sci-Fi channel's official site: Triangle (starts with video)
* AKF stand for Also Known For
It is indeed about the Bermuda Triangle and questions why it exists.
It was a very well put together movie with amazing people involved.
The story itself was a collaboration by Bryan Singer and Dean Devlin.
Bryan Singer wrote X-men and X2. Executive producer on House MD.
Dean Devlin wrote and produced Stargate and Independence Day.
The director Craig R. Baxley has directed other tv mini series ...
Steven King's: Storm of the Century and Rose Red.
The actors too were picked for their professionalism and excellence.
The cast of characters includes but not limited to a tycoon,
a four person team, a green peace activist (and family)
as well as military personel and politician.
Sam Neill played the shipping tycoon that hired the four person team
AKF: Jurassic Park's Dr. Alan Grant, Event Horizon's Dr. William Weir
Eric Stoltz played Howard Thomas,
a reporter for supermarket tabloid and expert on Bermuda Triangle.
AKF: Chicago Hope's Dr. Robert Yeats, Anaconda's Dr. Steven Cale
Catherine Bell played Emily Meredith Patterson,
deep ocean resource engineer among other degrees
AKF: JAG's Lt. Col. Sarah 'Mac' MacKenzie
Bruce Davison played Stan Lathem,
an aging man with genuine psychic abilities
AKF: X-Men and X2's Senator Kelly, Kingdom Hospital's Dr. Stegman
Michael E. Rodgers played Bruce Geller,
professor of meteorology, thrill seeker
AKF: American Dreams' Colin (not much to his credit on imdb)
Lou Diamond Phillips played Meeno Paloma,
sole survivor of a Triangle event, nearly kills self
AKF: La Bamba's Ritchie Valens and Young Guns' Jose Chavez
The main characters are explained at wikipedia's The Triange (tv mini series).
Or head on over to the Sci-Fi channel's official site: Triangle (starts with video)
* AKF stand for Also Known For
Movies vs Videos
Decided to add category of Videos.
Previously had category of Movies.
Movies are movies we have watched ...
whether from Randy's collection or from tv or from renting.
Videos will be any discussion of videos ...
whether it be on VHS or DVD or whatever tomorrow holds!
Will backtrack to connect old entries to new category.
Previously had category of Movies.
Movies are movies we have watched ...
whether from Randy's collection or from tv or from renting.
Videos will be any discussion of videos ...
whether it be on VHS or DVD or whatever tomorrow holds!
Will backtrack to connect old entries to new category.
Roadtrip
Added a new category called Roadtrip.
Randy and I enjoy taking them together.
We do have a habit of getting lost but that's okay.
We have a Maine Atlas map book in the car.
We simply have not had lots of luck with directions.
Many of our roadtrips up to this point are either
sightseeing trips or shopping trips or a combination.
Will backtrack to connect old entries to this new category.
Randy and I enjoy taking them together.
We do have a habit of getting lost but that's okay.
We have a Maine Atlas map book in the car.
We simply have not had lots of luck with directions.
Many of our roadtrips up to this point are either
sightseeing trips or shopping trips or a combination.
Will backtrack to connect old entries to this new category.
Another Road Trip
In the afternoon we very all of a sudden decided on a road trip.
We had been looking to purchase a sale item from Target.
Our local Target store did not have it so Randy got a raincheck.
I got online and learned the item was in stock in another Target.
So we dropped our other plans and decided to go check it out.
We indeed found the item and had a choice of colors - Yeah!
The Target we went to was in South Portland, near Maine Mall.
We got a little lost trying to find it, so much for Yahoo Maps!
But we took the opportunity to see what else was around.
We spotted the new Big Al's - the original store is in Wiscasset.
Our dinner plans were to try Hannaford's hot "meals to go".
Tuesday is pork loin, Wednesday is meatloaf, Thursday is ribs.
Picking up the ribs in South Portland gave them time to cool down.
On the way home we had a few more stops to make while out.
We swung by Tim Horton's for low fat blueberry muffins.
The final stop was at Movie Gallery, a video rental store.
Randy has gobs of both VHS and DVD but does not have everything.
We ran into a problem though trying to sign up with 2 pieces of id.
Randy only has his license and nothing else with name and address.
I may have a problem too because my license has not been changed.
We had been looking to purchase a sale item from Target.
Our local Target store did not have it so Randy got a raincheck.
I got online and learned the item was in stock in another Target.
So we dropped our other plans and decided to go check it out.
We indeed found the item and had a choice of colors - Yeah!
The Target we went to was in South Portland, near Maine Mall.
We got a little lost trying to find it, so much for Yahoo Maps!
But we took the opportunity to see what else was around.
We spotted the new Big Al's - the original store is in Wiscasset.
Our dinner plans were to try Hannaford's hot "meals to go".
Tuesday is pork loin, Wednesday is meatloaf, Thursday is ribs.
Picking up the ribs in South Portland gave them time to cool down.
On the way home we had a few more stops to make while out.
We swung by Tim Horton's for low fat blueberry muffins.
The final stop was at Movie Gallery, a video rental store.
Randy has gobs of both VHS and DVD but does not have everything.
We ran into a problem though trying to sign up with 2 pieces of id.
Randy only has his license and nothing else with name and address.
I may have a problem too because my license has not been changed.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Movies and Organization
Interspersed with watching movies we continued to organize.
I use a four tier white cart on wheels as my nightstand.
It had started to overflow so sorted thru all the stuff.
And moved some of the lesser used items other places.
Now I have space for notebooks and books I am reading.
Randy also put together yet another three shelf unit.
I picked the first two sci fi movies of the day:
Paycheck (2003) - Has plenty of action for those that like it.
It stars Ben Affleck and Uma Thurman, Aaron Eckhart,
Paul Giamatti and Kathryn Morris (Lilly Rush on Cold Case).
Also in it is Joe Morton (Henry Deacon on Eureka).
THX 1138 (1971) - I found this very slow moving.
It is the full length version of a George Lucas student project.
He is better known for Indiana Jones and Star Wars.
Starring in this film is Robert Duvall and Donald Pleasence.
Lost in Space (1998) - We had both previously seen this one.
The mom and dad were played my William Hurt and Mimi Rogers.
Others included Heather Graham, Matt LeBlanc and Gary Oldman.
Cameos by four of the cast from tv series including June Lockhart.
I use a four tier white cart on wheels as my nightstand.
It had started to overflow so sorted thru all the stuff.
And moved some of the lesser used items other places.
Now I have space for notebooks and books I am reading.
Randy also put together yet another three shelf unit.
I picked the first two sci fi movies of the day:
Paycheck (2003) - Has plenty of action for those that like it.
It stars Ben Affleck and Uma Thurman, Aaron Eckhart,
Paul Giamatti and Kathryn Morris (Lilly Rush on Cold Case).
Also in it is Joe Morton (Henry Deacon on Eureka).
THX 1138 (1971) - I found this very slow moving.
It is the full length version of a George Lucas student project.
He is better known for Indiana Jones and Star Wars.
Starring in this film is Robert Duvall and Donald Pleasence.
Lost in Space (1998) - We had both previously seen this one.
The mom and dad were played my William Hurt and Mimi Rogers.
Others included Heather Graham, Matt LeBlanc and Gary Oldman.
Cameos by four of the cast from tv series including June Lockhart.
DVD's & VHS (Part 2)
The apartment looks a little bit different now. We've managed to bring most of the DVD's over. The only DVD category still left in storage is TV shows. So now we have access to all the Family, Drama, Comedy, Classic, Action, Sci-Fi, Horror, Foreign, Religious, Music and Documentary DVD's that I own!
I also dug through the boxes of VHS classics and picked out some more for her mom (and a few more for Cathy too). It's too bad that her mom doesn't have a DVD player - I could get her a few more Bob Hope movies.
I also dug through the boxes of VHS classics and picked out some more for her mom (and a few more for Cathy too). It's too bad that her mom doesn't have a DVD player - I could get her a few more Bob Hope movies.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
More Sci Fi
Randy was not feeling so well today.
He was dealing with an earache and headache.
So we decided to make it a sci fi movie day.
We watched the following four movies:
He was dealing with an earache and headache.
So we decided to make it a sci fi movie day.
We watched the following four movies:
4: Rise of the Silver Surfer -It was the followup to the Fantastic Four movie we watched yesterday. Mr Fantastic (stretch guy) and the Invisible Woman (Jessice Alba) are trying to wed. Of course world events once again stop the wedding from actually happening. The other members of the team are The Torch and The Thing (Michael Chiklis). Bad guy Dr. Doom is played by Julian McMahon who played pure evil on Charmed. And the voice of the "Silver Surfer" is Lawrence Fishburne.
NEXT with Nicholas Cage as a guy that can see two minutes into the future. His "eventual" girlfriend is played by Jessica Biel of 7th Heaven fame. When he is with her his ability to see the future is expanded. Government agent played by Julianne Moore wants him to help prevent a nuclear terrorist attack.
The Butterfly Effect - I was pleasantly surprised of this movie. It starred Ashton Kutcher who I know best as Demi Moore's husband. He has been keeping a journal through his life due to strange blackouts and memory issues. He finds out he can go back in time and change the outcome of events - better known as the ripple effect. His young self is played by Logan Lerman who played Mel Gibson's young self in What Woman Want.
Interstate 60 - It was pretty good. A young man goes on an adventure on a highway that doesn't exist or does it? He learns some of life's lessons thru experience. He is played by James Marsden known for appearing on X-men. A couple of "characters" he keeps meeting along the way are played by Gary Oldman and Christopher Lloyd. Lloyd I remember from the Back to the Future movies and was the voice in tv's animated series by the same name. Also making guest appearance were Michael J Fox, Kurt Russell and Ann-Margret.
NEXT with Nicholas Cage as a guy that can see two minutes into the future. His "eventual" girlfriend is played by Jessica Biel of 7th Heaven fame. When he is with her his ability to see the future is expanded. Government agent played by Julianne Moore wants him to help prevent a nuclear terrorist attack.
The Butterfly Effect - I was pleasantly surprised of this movie. It starred Ashton Kutcher who I know best as Demi Moore's husband. He has been keeping a journal through his life due to strange blackouts and memory issues. He finds out he can go back in time and change the outcome of events - better known as the ripple effect. His young self is played by Logan Lerman who played Mel Gibson's young self in What Woman Want.
Interstate 60 - It was pretty good. A young man goes on an adventure on a highway that doesn't exist or does it? He learns some of life's lessons thru experience. He is played by James Marsden known for appearing on X-men. A couple of "characters" he keeps meeting along the way are played by Gary Oldman and Christopher Lloyd. Lloyd I remember from the Back to the Future movies and was the voice in tv's animated series by the same name. Also making guest appearance were Michael J Fox, Kurt Russell and Ann-Margret.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Sci Fi flicks
Last night we watched two sci fi movies ...
The Philadelphia Experiment - sci fi action
I had heard about it before so wanted to see it.
I liked it enough that I stayed awake throughout.
The navy denies experiments on invisibility or teleportation.
There are those that believe it happened and the skeptics.
Fantastic Four was second on the watch list.
I liked what I saw but did fall asleep due to lateness.
I will rewatch the rest of it later today during daylight.
One of the "FOUR" is played by Michael Chiklis.
I loved him in The Commish as Anthony 'Tony' J. Scali.
The Philadelphia Experiment - sci fi action
I had heard about it before so wanted to see it.
I liked it enough that I stayed awake throughout.
The navy denies experiments on invisibility or teleportation.
There are those that believe it happened and the skeptics.
Fantastic Four was second on the watch list.
I liked what I saw but did fall asleep due to lateness.
I will rewatch the rest of it later today during daylight.
One of the "FOUR" is played by Michael Chiklis.
I loved him in The Commish as Anthony 'Tony' J. Scali.
Home Management
I started a category called Home Management.
I believe it was a couple of weeks ago now.
Home Management includes many things ...
Organization and Space Management
Tips or info about household matters such as ...
Kitchen Concerns and Cleaning in General
I believe it was a couple of weeks ago now.
Home Management includes many things ...
Organization and Space Management
Tips or info about household matters such as ...
Kitchen Concerns and Cleaning in General
Categories Explained
For some of the categories I start with explanations.
This entry will be an index of links to those entries.
This entry will be an index of links to those entries.
Cool links or websites
HUMORE (Saturday feature)
Cool Links
I am starting a new category: Cool Links.
I will attach cool links/websites I blog about.
The Eureka entry is definately one of those.
As well as the recent LiveScience entry.
I will attach cool links/websites I blog about.
The Eureka entry is definately one of those.
As well as the recent LiveScience entry.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
That Funny Feeling
That Funny Feeling stars with Sandra Dee and Bobby Darin.
I like Sandra but could take or leave this movie- it was okay.
Some of the other actors I knew from other places as well.
Sandra I knew as character Tambrey 'Tammy' Tyree.
Donald O'Connor as Cosmo in Singin' In the Rain.
Nita Talbot I remember from Hogan's Heroes (Marya).
Larry Storch on "F Troop" as Cpl. Randolph Agarn.
Reta Shaw (lady at phone booth) is a great supporting actress.
I remember her on Bewitched as Aunt Hagatha.
I like Sandra but could take or leave this movie- it was okay.
Some of the other actors I knew from other places as well.
Sandra I knew as character Tambrey 'Tammy' Tyree.
Donald O'Connor as Cosmo in Singin' In the Rain.
Nita Talbot I remember from Hogan's Heroes (Marya).
Larry Storch on "F Troop" as Cpl. Randolph Agarn.
Reta Shaw (lady at phone booth) is a great supporting actress.
I remember her on Bewitched as Aunt Hagatha.
Bible Stories (Week 3)
Cathy asked for the story of David & Bathsheba. So we did 2 Samuel 11, reading about David's fall. The main things we noticed were that David wasn't where he was supposed to be which was the reason he was in the position for a fall and after, he tried to cover up his sin, eventually ending with the death of Bathsheda's husband Uriah. It's amazing how the pattern repeats itself in our own lives - being in a position for a fall and then the cover-ups after.
Throat Coat
This stuff works wonders - it WORKS!!!
I have had sporadic sore throats lately.
I finally remembered a pastor told me about this.
Just three cups of tea and the throat is all better.
The company is Traditional Medicinals.
I am impressed with their philosophy and practices.
Go ahead and read about them including their story,
Traditional Herbal Medicine and Caring for the Earth.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Went to LA
Saturday afternoon we decided to take a ride.
We went to LA, Lewiston-Auburn, the twin cities.
We stopped by the Auburn Mall and its surrounding stores.
The "surrounding stores" did not exist when I was young.
They are your box stores like Kohls, Best Buy and Walmart.
Noticed a Logos Christian Bookstore at the Shaws Plaza.
Their official name is The Bible Bookstore.
They use to be called Bible Bookstore and Gift Store.
They use to be at a different location past the mall area.
In Lewiston we did go downtown and I noticed "tree" streets.
All parallel streets are named after trees like Spruce and Birch.
When young we use to visit my grandmother on Ash Street.
We turned around so I could go back and look at building.
Randy was happy to see a new variety of stores.
We went to LA, Lewiston-Auburn, the twin cities.
We stopped by the Auburn Mall and its surrounding stores.
The "surrounding stores" did not exist when I was young.
They are your box stores like Kohls, Best Buy and Walmart.
Noticed a Logos Christian Bookstore at the Shaws Plaza.
Their official name is The Bible Bookstore.
They use to be called Bible Bookstore and Gift Store.
They use to be at a different location past the mall area.
In Lewiston we did go downtown and I noticed "tree" streets.
All parallel streets are named after trees like Spruce and Birch.
When young we use to visit my grandmother on Ash Street.
We turned around so I could go back and look at building.
Randy was happy to see a new variety of stores.
Eureka
As well as movies Randy has tv series on DVD.
The last few days we watched Eureka - the first season.
I love the show - I use to watch it on cable.
Randy is now anxious to see the second season.
I found Sci-Fi's official Eureka website.
I wanted to know more about the town and "characters".
I found a (confidential) town history and cast information:
Jack Carter - sheriff, Zoe Carter - Jack's daughter,
Allison Blake - Jack's love interest and governmental liason,
Nathan Stark - Allison's estranged husband and head researcher,
Jo Lupo - deputy sheriff and former US Army Ranger,
Jim Taggart - "biological containment specialist",
Henry Deacon - jack-of-all-trade, Douglas Fargo - Nathan's assistant,
and the very secretive Beverly Barlowe - brilliant psychotherapist.
And for those already into the show here are a couple more links:
Made in Eureka - sale videos of products "Made in Eureka"
Allison Blake's PSA - one of LiveSmart, Public Service Announcements
For the record the above two are for FUN only (don't take seriously).
The last few days we watched Eureka - the first season.
I love the show - I use to watch it on cable.
Randy is now anxious to see the second season.
I found Sci-Fi's official Eureka website.
I wanted to know more about the town and "characters".
I found a (confidential) town history and cast information:
Jack Carter - sheriff, Zoe Carter - Jack's daughter,
Allison Blake - Jack's love interest and governmental liason,
Nathan Stark - Allison's estranged husband and head researcher,
Jo Lupo - deputy sheriff and former US Army Ranger,
Jim Taggart - "biological containment specialist",
Henry Deacon - jack-of-all-trade, Douglas Fargo - Nathan's assistant,
and the very secretive Beverly Barlowe - brilliant psychotherapist.
And for those already into the show here are a couple more links:
Made in Eureka - sale videos of products "Made in Eureka"
Allison Blake's PSA - one of LiveSmart, Public Service Announcements
For the record the above two are for FUN only (don't take seriously).
LiveScience
LiveScience is a great website we found when surfing.
I quickly forgot what I had been googling when I found it.
So many great categories and neat articles to read.
It was easy, very easy, to lose track of time.
The Top 10's are fun like Top 10 Useless Limbs.
And Life Little Mysteries is a very cool section ...
which answers Why are no two snowflakes are identical?.
And then there is Strange News.
A sampling of cool articles from different categories:
Baby Version of Milky Way Spotted (space)
Butterflies Trick Ants Into Raising Young (animal)
US to Study Bizarre Morgellons Disease (health)
Northeast Winters Warming Fast (environment)
Some Grocery Coupons Go Digital (technology)
Pre-Human Dating Scene Revealed (history)
Top 10 Unexplained Phenomena (strange news)
(Considered ORE of HUMORE)
I quickly forgot what I had been googling when I found it.
So many great categories and neat articles to read.
It was easy, very easy, to lose track of time.
The Top 10's are fun like Top 10 Useless Limbs.
And Life Little Mysteries is a very cool section ...
which answers Why are no two snowflakes are identical?.
And then there is Strange News.
A sampling of cool articles from different categories:
Baby Version of Milky Way Spotted (space)
Butterflies Trick Ants Into Raising Young (animal)
US to Study Bizarre Morgellons Disease (health)
Northeast Winters Warming Fast (environment)
Some Grocery Coupons Go Digital (technology)
Pre-Human Dating Scene Revealed (history)
Top 10 Unexplained Phenomena (strange news)
(Considered ORE of HUMORE)
Friday, January 18, 2008
AFI Movie Date Night #3
Tonight we watched Unforgiven (#98 on AFI Top 100), the best picture Oscar winner from 1992. It's billed as the best western in the past 20 years. It starred Clint Eastwood (who won the Oscar for best director), Gene Hackman (Oscar winner for best supporting actor), Morgan Freeman and Richard Harris. It's all about "pullin' a trigger". The theme about how hard it is to kill a man, that it takes a certain coldness of heart to be able to do it, comes through pretty well. And Hackman's brutality as the law figure who doesn't want any gunman in his town causing trouble can cause you to flinch at the brutalness of it.
It's an honest look at what it meant to kill a man in the old west. B+.
It's an honest look at what it meant to kill a man in the old west. B+.
Cleaning Coffeemaker
Monthly you should clean regularly used coffee maker.
Between run sessions wait 15 to 20 minutes.
When doing the cleaning use full pot.
1) run 1 part vinegar to 2 part water mix thru machine
2) if its been awhile, run a fresh mix of same thru again
3) rinse with a run thru of warm clean water alone
4) do a second rinse cycle of just warm water alone
From article How to Clean a Coffee Maker
Originally from Best Coffee Maker Online article
Between run sessions wait 15 to 20 minutes.
When doing the cleaning use full pot.
1) run 1 part vinegar to 2 part water mix thru machine
2) if its been awhile, run a fresh mix of same thru again
3) rinse with a run thru of warm clean water alone
4) do a second rinse cycle of just warm water alone
From article How to Clean a Coffee Maker
Originally from Best Coffee Maker Online article
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex
Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex "is a leading manufacturer
of more than 27 different household appliances,
from coffeemakers to blenders, toasters to irons."
Will be looking at coffeemakers from these entities.
Proctor Silex 12-Cup Coffeemaker - White (43531)
currently 19.99 at Target
has "auto pause and serve" function
with dual water windows and a nonstick hot plate
separate carafe and (filter) basket
Proctor Silex 12-Cup Coffeemaker - 48571
currently 24.99 at Target (review not positive)
has auto shut-off and brew-strength selector
and includes permanent filter (yet basket separate?)
Will be looking for other reviews from other sites
as well as looking for other possible models by them.
of more than 27 different household appliances,
from coffeemakers to blenders, toasters to irons."
Will be looking at coffeemakers from these entities.
Proctor Silex 12-Cup Coffeemaker - White (43531)
currently 19.99 at Target
has "auto pause and serve" function
with dual water windows and a nonstick hot plate
separate carafe and (filter) basket
Proctor Silex 12-Cup Coffeemaker - 48571
currently 24.99 at Target (review not positive)
has auto shut-off and brew-strength selector
and includes permanent filter (yet basket separate?)
Will be looking for other reviews from other sites
as well as looking for other possible models by them.
Coffeemaker
We are looking to replace my 2-12 cup coffeemaker.
Mine is currently a Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex.
It has a filter holder I remove and clean after each use.
I like putting in the new filter for each fresh cup.
I admit to not understanding the "permanent" filters.
In addition to Hamilton Beach will look at Mr. Coffee.
I have gotten in the habit of starting my day with coffee
or when company has some. Randy still does not drink coffee.
Mine is currently a Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex.
It has a filter holder I remove and clean after each use.
I like putting in the new filter for each fresh cup.
I admit to not understanding the "permanent" filters.
In addition to Hamilton Beach will look at Mr. Coffee.
I have gotten in the habit of starting my day with coffee
or when company has some. Randy still does not drink coffee.
1080i, 720p, and 1080p - what?
So what do these numbers mean?
And what does the letter at the end mean?
Those questions spurred on my newest google (re)search.
Answers:
P stands for progressive scan - shows full picture at one time
I stands for interlaced scan - takes two passes to get all picture
The number refers to number of lines in image.
More lines means clearer picture, more realistic.
Links to articles:
High Definition Television Info
HDTV Showdown: 1080i and 720p
Wikipedia: 1080i, 720p, 1080p, HDTV
And what does the letter at the end mean?
Those questions spurred on my newest google (re)search.
Answers:
P stands for progressive scan - shows full picture at one time
I stands for interlaced scan - takes two passes to get all picture
The number refers to number of lines in image.
More lines means clearer picture, more realistic.
Links to articles:
High Definition Television Info
HDTV Showdown: 1080i and 720p
Wikipedia: 1080i, 720p, 1080p, HDTV
More Researching
I originally started a blog category of research.
Currently I have been doing research on two things.
To make it easier to find all articles on each ...
I decided to create a couple new research categories.
The original research category is for general items.
Research-kitchen currently has stuff about dinnerware.
Research-electronics currently has stuff about HD etc.
Research-appliance will start with stuff on coffeemakers.
Research-health added in February 2008
Currently I have been doing research on two things.
To make it easier to find all articles on each ...
I decided to create a couple new research categories.
The original research category is for general items.
Research-kitchen currently has stuff about dinnerware.
Research-electronics currently has stuff about HD etc.
Research-appliance will start with stuff on coffeemakers.
Research-health added in February 2008
Upconverting
My mom mentioned getting a coupon to purchase "upconverter" thingie. Her understanding is that she will need that within a year the same way rabbit ears were needed to get some channels not readily available for those that did not upgrade to cable. She said her and dad had no intention of buying new televisions (living room and bedroom) just for HD capability.
That set me off on another research binge to learn more about HD Upconverters. I want to understand what it really does and what will need it. We have one old tv which predates HD that will remain when we purchase new flat panel HD tv. We also have GOBS of VHS and DVD's that predate any HD technology we still need to be able to view on either tv.
As we slowly and calmly decide on our new HD tv and new DVD player we need to consider all the new technology and how it works together. We want to purchase what is necessary so that everything we have still works for MANY years yet to come. Sometimes this seems a daunting task.
That set me off on another research binge to learn more about HD Upconverters. I want to understand what it really does and what will need it. We have one old tv which predates HD that will remain when we purchase new flat panel HD tv. We also have GOBS of VHS and DVD's that predate any HD technology we still need to be able to view on either tv.
As we slowly and calmly decide on our new HD tv and new DVD player we need to consider all the new technology and how it works together. We want to purchase what is necessary so that everything we have still works for MANY years yet to come. Sometimes this seems a daunting task.
Here are some links about Upconverting:
What is HD upconverter?
How HD Upconverters work
Getting the Most out of DVD on a HDTV Display
The Many Benefits of a upconverting DVD Player
Upconvert VHS to 1080i or 720p - Why?
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Nausea Home Remedies
I think this is the day ...
I had an involuntary urge to vomit.
It hit me so quickly - I also felt faintish.
Randy ran for a basin for me to throw up in.
Luckily I did not actually throw up - I hate doing that.
I remember growing up when we were sick ...
mom gave up saltine crackers and gingerale.
When I started feeling a bit better I googled, of course.
Some of the ideas for treatment follow:
"sitting down in a still environment" - which I did
Research supports folk remedies of ginger and peppermint.
And eating dry crackers before moving.
There was also the suggestion to try the BRAT diet.
Which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
A couple variations are BRATT which includes tea
and BRATY which includes yogurt with your toast.
These are prescribed for gastrointestinal distress.
I had an involuntary urge to vomit.
It hit me so quickly - I also felt faintish.
Randy ran for a basin for me to throw up in.
Luckily I did not actually throw up - I hate doing that.
I remember growing up when we were sick ...
mom gave up saltine crackers and gingerale.
When I started feeling a bit better I googled, of course.
Some of the ideas for treatment follow:
"sitting down in a still environment" - which I did
Research supports folk remedies of ginger and peppermint.
And eating dry crackers before moving.
There was also the suggestion to try the BRAT diet.
Which stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
A couple variations are BRATT which includes tea
and BRATY which includes yogurt with your toast.
These are prescribed for gastrointestinal distress.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Country Cottage
We have decided on the Country Cottage design.There seems to be many associated pieces to match.
Amazon items and prices follow:
16 piece dinnerware set with stoneware mug - $26.99
16 piece dinnerware set with cooler glass - $29.99
34 piece dinnerware set with stoneware mug - $84.00
Individual pieces:
Dinner plate - 10 1/4 inch - $3.99 each
Bread and butter plate - 6 3/4 inch - $6.80 each
Cereal bowl - 18 oz - $3.99 each
Luncheon plate - 8 1/2 inch - $3.49 each
Serveware items:
1 quart serving bowl - $10.64
12 1/4 serving platter - $8.00
Melamine Tidbit Tray (16"L x 6.5"W) - $4.50
Melamine Rectangular Tray (18.5"L x 11.5"W) - $9.00
Other possibilites:
28 oz super soup/cereal bowl with light blue band - $5.60
5 piece snack set - $14.99 (1 2 qt bowl and 4 28 oz bowls)
5 piece pasta set - $14.99 (1 2 qt bowl and 4 20 oz bowls)
3 piece serve set - $17.90 (1 2 qt bowl and 2 1 qt bowls)
Movies Day
Originally Monday we were going to do a movie marathon.
With the snow storm to shovel out of did not really have the time.
So decided to kick back today and relax with different movies.
Late Monday into Tuesday we watched Libeled Lady.
It had an impressive cast of actors from the 1930's:
Jean Harlow, William Powell, Myrna Loy, and Spenser Tracy.
Mid morning we watched The Reaping starring Hillary Swank.
"... a small town ... suffering from the 10 biblical plagues."
You are never sure if you are in the real world or just dreaming.
Late afternoon we watched Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984).
I thought I'd seen it before but realized I had not.
It starred John Hurt and was based on George Orwell novel.
In the evening we watched Fracture with Anthony Hopkins.
It's a crime, drama, mystery, thriller with mind games.
Ryan Gosling costars as the sometimes reluctant DA.
With the snow storm to shovel out of did not really have the time.
So decided to kick back today and relax with different movies.
Late Monday into Tuesday we watched Libeled Lady.
It had an impressive cast of actors from the 1930's:
Jean Harlow, William Powell, Myrna Loy, and Spenser Tracy.
Mid morning we watched The Reaping starring Hillary Swank.
"... a small town ... suffering from the 10 biblical plagues."
You are never sure if you are in the real world or just dreaming.
Late afternoon we watched Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984).
I thought I'd seen it before but realized I had not.
It starred John Hurt and was based on George Orwell novel.
In the evening we watched Fracture with Anthony Hopkins.
It's a crime, drama, mystery, thriller with mind games.
Ryan Gosling costars as the sometimes reluctant DA.
Corningware
Corningware is the bakeware associated with Corelle.
Items in the Corelle Coordinates "Pure White" line:
1.5 qt Covered Casserole (18.99) sale 15.99 *
2.5 qt Covered Casserole (20.99) sale 16.79 *
9x13 Oblong Dish (20.99) sale 16.79 *
4-piece set are two casseroles (above) with lids (41.99) sale 33.59 *
5-piece set are two casseroles and oblong dish (52.99) sale 42.39 *
We could also go with an oblong from the Colours line
like the Berry 3 qt oblong (Randy likes blue) - reg 20.99
Also looking to get glass casserole covers - 3.49 either size
* noticed on sale as of 4/7/08 (before trip to outlet)
Items in the Corelle Coordinates "Pure White" line:
1.5 qt Covered Casserole (18.99) sale 15.99 *
2.5 qt Covered Casserole (20.99) sale 16.79 *
9x13 Oblong Dish (20.99) sale 16.79 *
4-piece set are two casseroles (above) with lids (41.99) sale 33.59 *
5-piece set are two casseroles and oblong dish (52.99) sale 42.39 *
We could also go with an oblong from the Colours line
like the Berry 3 qt oblong (Randy likes blue) - reg 20.99
Also looking to get glass casserole covers - 3.49 either size
* noticed on sale as of 4/7/08 (before trip to outlet)
Corelle new sets
It would seem the new sets configuration is different:
Dinner plate - 10 1/4 inch
Bread and butter plate - 6 3/4 inch
Cereal bowl - 18 oz
Cooler Glass (16 oz) or Stoneware Mug (11 oz)
New patterns are broken down into groups:
Impressions, Square, Lifestyles, Ultra, Hearthstone
Myself I prefer the Livingware line.
I prefer those understated like Apricot Grove, Basketweave,
Country Cottage, Rosemarie, Simply Spring, Winter Frost White
The Corelle site points purchasers to shop at World Kitchen.
The 16 piece set (4 place settings) is $39.99.
While the 42 piece set (8 place settings) is $69.99.
The 8 place settings includes plastic covers for cereal bowls
and serverware: 1 quart bowl (vegetables) and 12 1/4 platter
Dinner plate - 10 1/4 inch
Bread and butter plate - 6 3/4 inch
Cereal bowl - 18 oz
Cooler Glass (16 oz) or Stoneware Mug (11 oz)
New patterns are broken down into groups:
Impressions, Square, Lifestyles, Ultra, Hearthstone
Myself I prefer the Livingware line.
I prefer those understated like Apricot Grove, Basketweave,
Country Cottage, Rosemarie, Simply Spring, Winter Frost White
The Corelle site points purchasers to shop at World Kitchen.
The 16 piece set (4 place settings) is $39.99.
While the 42 piece set (8 place settings) is $69.99.
The 8 place settings includes plastic covers for cereal bowls
and serverware: 1 quart bowl (vegetables) and 12 1/4 platter
Corelle old set
My current set of Spice of Life Corelle dishes includes
Dinner Plate - 10 1/4 inches
Lunch Plate - 8 1/2 inches
Cereal Bowl - 6 1/4 inches (18 oz)
I got rid of the coffee cup and saucers.
I also have the matching Corning Ware items:
1 liter, 1.5 liter and 2 liter (all square) and a grab-it bowl
I REALLY like the lunch plate for lunch meals ...
whether it be a sandwich with chips or with carrots.
Dinner Plate - 10 1/4 inches
Lunch Plate - 8 1/2 inches
Cereal Bowl - 6 1/4 inches (18 oz)
I got rid of the coffee cup and saucers.
I also have the matching Corning Ware items:
1 liter, 1.5 liter and 2 liter (all square) and a grab-it bowl
I REALLY like the lunch plate for lunch meals ...
whether it be a sandwich with chips or with carrots.
Blu-ray winning
My brother mentioned there was a new development in the Blu-ray versus HD DVD war. Within the last week another major studio or two have decided to only produce Blu-ray videos. So that means 6 for Blu-ray and only 2 for HD. The battle continues for now but certainly looks like Blu-ray will win out just like VHS stomped all over Beta.
Including some links of interest:
Warner Bros picks Blu-Ray over HD-DVDIncluding some links of interest:
Blu-ray.com suporting studios
Blu-ray Disc US site
Spice of Life
Over 23 years ago when I went off to college ...I selected Corelle's Spice of Life as my pattern ...
for both dinnerware and associated Corning bakeware.
They have lasted me well but now thinking about replacing.
Originally I went to ebay looking for replacements.
I never had the 1 quart salad/vegetable bowl.
And now as a newlywed want some serveware.
Also likely to pick up a large platter.
An ebay action is suggesting Spice of Life ...
is interchangeable with Indian Summer.
Yet on the serving bowl it has a brown striped edge.
My regular cereal bowl has a green striped edge.
The Spice of Life pattern is retired aka "vintage".
It can be viewed at Corelle's Vintage Pattern Showroom.
Indian Summer and Strawberry Sunday are also listed.
I believe my mother's pattern is Spring Blossom Green.
Research
I enjoy researching. It is part of my analytical nature.
I have with this post created a new category called research.
We've been researching LCD flat screen televisions.
As well as getting a VHS DVD combo player.
We got some new information on that yesterday.
Will sometime today find the news article(s) and blog.
I am also researching replacing my Spice of Life.
Have gone back and forth whether to or not.
I have with this post created a new category called research.
We've been researching LCD flat screen televisions.
As well as getting a VHS DVD combo player.
We got some new information on that yesterday.
Will sometime today find the news article(s) and blog.
I am also researching replacing my Spice of Life.
Have gone back and forth whether to or not.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Disturbed
Another snowstorm today. Trying to stay warm.
At this writing I'd say we have over a foot of snow.
I cleared the porch area this morning at about 6 inches.
It was fluffy snow so just used a big garage broom.
We just got done watching the video Disturbia.
Shia LaBeouf plays the role of the main character.
I remember him on the tv series Even Stevens.
And the bad guy was played by David Morse.
I remember him way back on St. Elsewhere (as Boomer).
A couple of the other characters I thought I recognized.
But when I checked with imdb could not identify ...
what movies or shows I thought I knew them from.
They were Sarah Roemer and Aaron Yoo.
At this writing I'd say we have over a foot of snow.
I cleared the porch area this morning at about 6 inches.
It was fluffy snow so just used a big garage broom.
We just got done watching the video Disturbia.
Shia LaBeouf plays the role of the main character.
I remember him on the tv series Even Stevens.
And the bad guy was played by David Morse.
I remember him way back on St. Elsewhere (as Boomer).
A couple of the other characters I thought I recognized.
But when I checked with imdb could not identify ...
what movies or shows I thought I knew them from.
They were Sarah Roemer and Aaron Yoo.
Predating Posts
For the record I sometimes predate posts.
That means we may be too busy to blog every day.
We may come back and post from a day or two ago.
When I do that I put a 10 PM time on the post.
We were busy over the weekend so did not blog.
Today I predated a couple of entries.
The Saturday entry: Brunch, Brownies and Beans.
As well as the Sunday entry about category Blog Notes.
That means we may be too busy to blog every day.
We may come back and post from a day or two ago.
When I do that I put a 10 PM time on the post.
We were busy over the weekend so did not blog.
Today I predated a couple of entries.
The Saturday entry: Brunch, Brownies and Beans.
As well as the Sunday entry about category Blog Notes.
Rearranging Apartment
The better part of the last week we have been rearranging the apartment. Only in sections at a time. We purchased individual modular pieces to create a bakeware/cookware storage unit. And now we are slowly adding some of Randy's video collection into the apartment. If you know Randy you know he has a HUGE collection. Did I mention he has a HUGE video collection, both VHS and DVD. It's been in a storage facility just a mile away for lack of space. Luckily he also has some nice modular units to house them in.
First we put two 32 wide by 45 high brown wood grain units in bedroom office area. Second we put six 12 wide by 45 high black units on top of the white office desk. I already had black as my second office area color so everything coordinates nicely. Third we moved the two 36 wide by 60 high wooden bookshelves my dad made me next to each other in the livingroom on the side wall. One of these units is still mostly books while the other is holding DVDs two deep. Fourth we put two 20 inch by 60 inch high light wood grain units in living room, one on either side of loveseat. And lastly we put a third of the 32 wide by 45 high brown wood grain units between the office area and the bed area of the bedroom.
I am happy to report while adding function to the apartment it is still aesthetically pleasing. It has been a balancing act for sure. And I want to thank Randy for all his hard work in this matter as I change my mind as to where everything goes to accomplish this task. We, okay mostly Randy, has had to shuffle things around a few times along the way. I believe Randy is as pleased as I am at how things have turned out.
Randy is still in the process of unpacking the videos for placement on the units. In the future once we get all the rearranging settled we will take pictures to show off all our efforts. I expect Randy will add his own blog entry about what movies he is putting where. He is very logical and wants to keep different genres together. Got to love a hard working, logical man of God!
First we put two 32 wide by 45 high brown wood grain units in bedroom office area. Second we put six 12 wide by 45 high black units on top of the white office desk. I already had black as my second office area color so everything coordinates nicely. Third we moved the two 36 wide by 60 high wooden bookshelves my dad made me next to each other in the livingroom on the side wall. One of these units is still mostly books while the other is holding DVDs two deep. Fourth we put two 20 inch by 60 inch high light wood grain units in living room, one on either side of loveseat. And lastly we put a third of the 32 wide by 45 high brown wood grain units between the office area and the bed area of the bedroom.
I am happy to report while adding function to the apartment it is still aesthetically pleasing. It has been a balancing act for sure. And I want to thank Randy for all his hard work in this matter as I change my mind as to where everything goes to accomplish this task. We, okay mostly Randy, has had to shuffle things around a few times along the way. I believe Randy is as pleased as I am at how things have turned out.
Randy is still in the process of unpacking the videos for placement on the units. In the future once we get all the rearranging settled we will take pictures to show off all our efforts. I expect Randy will add his own blog entry about what movies he is putting where. He is very logical and wants to keep different genres together. Got to love a hard working, logical man of God!
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Bible Stories (Week 2)
Tonight we ended up doing the infamous rebuke of King David by the prophet Nathan from 2 Samuel 12. It has always been one of those chills in the spine moments from Scripture for me, when Nathan says to David "You are that man!".
We noticed a couple of things - God allowed consequences to David's sin (death of the baby by Bathsheba and strife in David's household) but He also forgave David and restored him to fellowship. God's grace can cover an adulterer and murderer.
We noticed a couple of things - God allowed consequences to David's sin (death of the baby by Bathsheba and strife in David's household) but He also forgave David and restored him to fellowship. God's grace can cover an adulterer and murderer.
Blog Notes
I started a new category called "blognotes".
These entries will be informative in general.
And even moreso explain certain categories.
I have some back entries to add to this category.
These entries will be informative in general.
And even moreso explain certain categories.
I have some back entries to add to this category.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Brunch, Brownies, Beans
We had a late breakfast so made it brunch.
Pulled out the new T-fal griddle to use.
Cooked up scrambled eggs and left over rice.
Cooked up the sausage in the microwave.
In the afternoon I wanted to surprise Randy.
I had found an interesting reipce on Crisco packaging.
I knew Randy liked chewy and brownies and cookies.
So how could I not make Chewy Brownie Cookies.
For dinner I decided the old Saturday standby ...
Baked Beans with hotdogs and Brown Bread.
Randy thought I was a little crazy when ...
I asked him to pick up bread in a can.
Pulled out the new T-fal griddle to use.
Cooked up scrambled eggs and left over rice.
Cooked up the sausage in the microwave.
In the afternoon I wanted to surprise Randy.
I had found an interesting reipce on Crisco packaging.
I knew Randy liked chewy and brownies and cookies.
So how could I not make Chewy Brownie Cookies.
For dinner I decided the old Saturday standby ...
Baked Beans with hotdogs and Brown Bread.
Randy thought I was a little crazy when ...
I asked him to pick up bread in a can.
Photos By Us
I created a new category this morning.
It is called "photosbyus".
It will be images we took.
Did some back tracking this morning.
Added images to some old posts ...
Cat curio cabinet
Christmas ornament
Lasagna - before and after
Have previously uploaded other pics.
Will need to connect those to new category.
Will try to do that this weekend.
It is called "photosbyus".
It will be images we took.
Did some back tracking this morning.
Added images to some old posts ...
Cat curio cabinet
Christmas ornament
Lasagna - before and after
Have previously uploaded other pics.
Will need to connect those to new category.
Will try to do that this weekend.
Maine Computer Terms
1. Log on - Make the wood stove hotter
2. Log off - Don't add no more wood
3. Monitor - Keep an eye on that wood stove
4. Download - Getting the firewood off the truck
5. Floppy disk - What you get from downloading too much firewood
6. Ram - The thing that splits the firewood
7. Hard Drive - Getting home in the winter
8. Prompt - What the US mail ain't in the winter
9. Window - What to shut when it's cold outside
10. Screen - What to shut in black fly season
11. Byte - What the black flies do
12. Bit - What the black flies did
13. Mega Byte - What the BIG black flies do during trout season
14. Chip - Munchies for TV
15. Micro Chip - What's left in the bag after you eat chips
16. Modem - What you did to the weeds growing in the driveway
17. Dot matrix - Old Dan Matrix's wife
18. Lap top - Where the beer spills when you nod off
19. Software - The dumb plastic knives and forks at McDonalds
20. Hardware - Real stainless steel cutlery
21. Mouse - What makes the holes in the Cheerio box
22. Main frame - What holds the house up, hopefully
23. Enter - The only way to win those magazine sweepstakes
24. Web - What a spider makes
25. Web site - High corners of the ceiling
26. Cursor - Someone who swears
27. Search Engine - What you do when the car dies
28. Screen Saver - repair kit for the torn window screen on the camp
29. Home Page - map that tourists keep in their pocket in case they get lost in the woods. Real Mainers never use them
30. Upgrade - Steep hill
31. Server - waitress
32. Mail Server - male waitress. Damn few in Maine
33. MS DOS - Some new disease they discovered
34. Sound Card - One of them gall darned technological birthday cards that plays music when you open it
35. User - The neighbor who keeps borrowing your stuff
36. Browser - A problem moose in the Blueberry patch
37. Network - Mending holes in the gillnet
38. Internet - Complicated fish net repair
39. Netscape - What haddock do when you don't do your network
40. Online - good sign there'll be clean clothes this week
41. Off line - the clothes pins let go and the laundry falls on the ground. Next week, get biggah pins...
Thanks to our teenage friend Jo that shared these with us.
(Considered HM of HUMORE)
2. Log off - Don't add no more wood
3. Monitor - Keep an eye on that wood stove
4. Download - Getting the firewood off the truck
5. Floppy disk - What you get from downloading too much firewood
6. Ram - The thing that splits the firewood
7. Hard Drive - Getting home in the winter
8. Prompt - What the US mail ain't in the winter
9. Window - What to shut when it's cold outside
10. Screen - What to shut in black fly season
11. Byte - What the black flies do
12. Bit - What the black flies did
13. Mega Byte - What the BIG black flies do during trout season
14. Chip - Munchies for TV
15. Micro Chip - What's left in the bag after you eat chips
16. Modem - What you did to the weeds growing in the driveway
17. Dot matrix - Old Dan Matrix's wife
18. Lap top - Where the beer spills when you nod off
19. Software - The dumb plastic knives and forks at McDonalds
20. Hardware - Real stainless steel cutlery
21. Mouse - What makes the holes in the Cheerio box
22. Main frame - What holds the house up, hopefully
23. Enter - The only way to win those magazine sweepstakes
24. Web - What a spider makes
25. Web site - High corners of the ceiling
26. Cursor - Someone who swears
27. Search Engine - What you do when the car dies
28. Screen Saver - repair kit for the torn window screen on the camp
29. Home Page - map that tourists keep in their pocket in case they get lost in the woods. Real Mainers never use them
30. Upgrade - Steep hill
31. Server - waitress
32. Mail Server - male waitress. Damn few in Maine
33. MS DOS - Some new disease they discovered
34. Sound Card - One of them gall darned technological birthday cards that plays music when you open it
35. User - The neighbor who keeps borrowing your stuff
36. Browser - A problem moose in the Blueberry patch
37. Network - Mending holes in the gillnet
38. Internet - Complicated fish net repair
39. Netscape - What haddock do when you don't do your network
40. Online - good sign there'll be clean clothes this week
41. Off line - the clothes pins let go and the laundry falls on the ground. Next week, get biggah pins...
Thanks to our teenage friend Jo that shared these with us.
(Considered HM of HUMORE)
Friday, January 11, 2008
AFI Movie Date Night #2
Tonight it was Guess Who's Coming To Dinner, #99 on the list, starring Oscar winners Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn and Sidney Poitier. It was probably the biggest film of the time that dealt with the question of acceptance of an interracial marriage. I remember loving the film the previous times I had seen it. This time however, I found problems with the foundational issue of how quickly one can fall in love. I found I agreed with Tracy's initial assessment that he can't give the blessing based on the pressure of the deadline given him (one day). And I find I reject the point of Tracy's speech at the end - they should get married because the feelings of love are there. It boils down to another Hollywood romanticizing the process of love, which I have learned takes time to learn how to love and takes time to grow. They should have waited to get married (10 days is not enough time to decide!). They had time.
Nevertheless, the film has many splendid moments and is well worth watching. B+.
Nevertheless, the film has many splendid moments and is well worth watching. B+.
Non Stick Refresher
It's been awhile since I bought new non-stick items.
Recently purchased new items to start new married life.
Having been reading instructions to see what I need to do.
Most items did NOT tell me I needed to "season" ...
Although the T-Fal griddle did mention it.
In the Farberware 15-piece set there came plastic utensils.
We both thought they were wrong for included that type.
But reading up on it things have changed in the last 20 years.
Only real rule is to avoid anything sharp and cutting food in pan.
What to use on pots/pans? plastic, rubber, silicon, and wood utensils
Links of interest:
Non Stick Coatings
How to Clean Non Stick Cookware
Non Stick Cookware
Recently purchased new items to start new married life.
Having been reading instructions to see what I need to do.
Most items did NOT tell me I needed to "season" ...
Although the T-Fal griddle did mention it.
In the Farberware 15-piece set there came plastic utensils.
We both thought they were wrong for included that type.
But reading up on it things have changed in the last 20 years.
Only real rule is to avoid anything sharp and cutting food in pan.
What to use on pots/pans? plastic, rubber, silicon, and wood utensils
Links of interest:
Non Stick Coatings
How to Clean Non Stick Cookware
Non Stick Cookware
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Organize It
Living in an apartment we have limited space.
And with all our new cookware and bakeware ...
we needed to find some new stackable storage.
Want to keep the new pots and pans protected.
We picked some modular furniture from Organize-it.
They are all 2 feet across and we will stack 3 items.
One is a two drawer unit, one is 2 shelves horizontal,
and then a 2 door three shelf organizer unit.
While Randy was at Target getting the items ...
I was busy cutting coupons for grocery shopping.
Randy enjoys shopping and saving "megabucks".
I then organized them by category for ease of use.
Update: We purchased a second horizontal unit.
We did not stack it next to the other.
Our order is from bottom up: drawers, horizontal,
three shelf organizer (without doors), and horizontal.
Stain Removal
Randy has a collection of sweatshirts and t-shirts.
They all have Hard Rock Cafe logos/images.
They have really bad set in sweat stains.
My job now is to try to clean them up if I can.
Because of the huge number of his collection some of them
we actually cut up to possibly be used in a quilt.
I was googling and found some sites with good information.
I have not actually tried the ideas yet but plan to.
I figure I will test on the patches cut for the quilt.
How to Get Rid of Sweat Stains
Cleaning Up: Set In Sweat Stains
How to Remove Sweat and Perspiration Stains
They all have Hard Rock Cafe logos/images.
They have really bad set in sweat stains.
My job now is to try to clean them up if I can.
Because of the huge number of his collection some of them
we actually cut up to possibly be used in a quilt.
I was googling and found some sites with good information.
I have not actually tried the ideas yet but plan to.
I figure I will test on the patches cut for the quilt.
How to Get Rid of Sweat Stains
Cleaning Up: Set In Sweat Stains
How to Remove Sweat and Perspiration Stains
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Cookware Set
That included bakeware, cookware and silverware.
We were hoping this weekend maybe to see a deal.
We knew in the past Bed, Bath, and Beyond did coupons.
We took another road trip today to my cousin's town.
This is also where I lived about six months last year.
Randy is glad I no longer live in the "boonies".
We ate some peanut butter cream pie at Moody's Diner.
My cousin has 4 children from teens to early twenties.
Three of these are woman soon to be out on their own.
I left my old but still good kitchenware with them.
We really were counting on faith to replace cookware.
When we got home Randy went to get the mail.
In it was a Bed, Bath, and Beyond 20% off coupon.
Coupled with $70 dollars worth of gift certificates ...
allowed us to purchase 15 piece set for just $10.00.
It's durable Farberware - the classic series.
While it is stainless steel also has aluminum base.
The matching frying pans have non-stick surfaces.
A couple of the saucepans come with spout and strainer.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Getting Serious Part 2
It was a beautiful day here in Maine today.
Temperatures reached up to 55 degrees.
I am basically homebound during winter weather.
But today with the pavement clean went out for a bit.
We both went to the bank to confirm changes.
They needed to see marriage certificate.
We picked out checks and requested ATM cards.
Also stopped by BMV to get forms to fill out.
Did some browsing at Bed, Bath and Beyond.
We had two gift certificates we need to use.
We have a good idea what we will be picking up.
Also need to get completion coupon for 10% off.
For the evening meal I unpacked our new Oneida.
I picked a simple, classic design called Emma.
Rue home church purchased a 4 place setting. BIG THANKS!
Mom and dad purchased 8 place setting with serving pieces.
Temperatures reached up to 55 degrees.
I am basically homebound during winter weather.
But today with the pavement clean went out for a bit.
We both went to the bank to confirm changes.
They needed to see marriage certificate.
We picked out checks and requested ATM cards.
Also stopped by BMV to get forms to fill out.
Did some browsing at Bed, Bath and Beyond.
We had two gift certificates we need to use.
We have a good idea what we will be picking up.
Also need to get completion coupon for 10% off.
For the evening meal I unpacked our new Oneida.
I picked a simple, classic design called Emma.
Rue home church purchased a 4 place setting. BIG THANKS!
Mom and dad purchased 8 place setting with serving pieces.
DVD's & VHS (Part 1)
Unpacked a couple more boxes of DVD's (mostly classics). I put them on 2 of the DVD shelving units I also brought from storage. I also grabbed four boxes of classic VHS (we're trying to set up her mom with movies while she's recovering from surgery - 8 of which are Bob Hope movies) and Cathy picked out about 16 of those to check out herself. So we're slowly finding spots to bring some of my collection here.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Getting Serious Part 1
Over the weekend we signed up online for a joint bank account.
I already account with the bank - but under old name and old address.
We had 11 checks that needed depositing as far back as November.
The farthest back was for sale of Randy's vehicle before moving.
Checks also included moving, wedding and Christmas gift monies.
Still have to return to bank with me to finalize changes.
UPS visited us again today with final Kohl purchases from parents.
Included a 6 quart Farberware stock pot, griddle and rectangular pan.
That pretty much does it for new kitchen stuff we are expecting.
We filled up our new cabinets with canned products and other staples.
Because of the stocking up we are set for awhile on non-perishables.
Randy is a great shopper and especially for deals and using coupons.
I already account with the bank - but under old name and old address.
We had 11 checks that needed depositing as far back as November.
The farthest back was for sale of Randy's vehicle before moving.
Checks also included moving, wedding and Christmas gift monies.
Still have to return to bank with me to finalize changes.
UPS visited us again today with final Kohl purchases from parents.
Included a 6 quart Farberware stock pot, griddle and rectangular pan.
That pretty much does it for new kitchen stuff we are expecting.
We filled up our new cabinets with canned products and other staples.
Because of the stocking up we are set for awhile on non-perishables.
Randy is a great shopper and especially for deals and using coupons.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Bible Stories (Week 1)
I thought a good idea for Sunday's might be let's read a story from the bible and discuss it. We picked Peter's miraculous release from prison after James' death from Acts 12. We talked about how the believers were praying for his release but when it happened, they didn't believe it! (Even Peter thought it was just a dream while it was happening.) Cathy also noted the similarities between this sequence and Paul's jailing just 4 chapters later but also the big difference in outcomes. Peter's guards were eventually executed for allowing the escape but Paul's chief jailor believed and got salvation.
We're hoping to do this every Sunday.
Tuna Romanoff
4 T butter
3 1/2 C Rice Chex crushes to 2 1/2 C
1/4 C finely chopped onions
1 can (10 3/4) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 C milk
1/2 C sliced pimento stuffed olives
3 ounces noodles, cooked and drained
2 6-1/2 oz cans tuna, drained
1/2 C shredded mozzarella cheese
Melt butter in large skillet.
Remove 3 T and mix with Chex. Set aside.
Saute onion in remaining butter, 5 minutes.
Add soup, cream cheese and milk.
Heat and stir over low heat until smooth.
Remove from heat.
Stir in olives, moodles, tuna and 1 C Chex.
Turn into baking dish.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese,
then remaining Chex crumbs.
Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.
Variation: I do not add onions so also remove 1 T butter.
Note: husband does not care for olives so will replace with more tuna.
From “Chex: The Natural Way to Good Cooking”.
3 1/2 C Rice Chex crushes to 2 1/2 C
1/4 C finely chopped onions
1 can (10 3/4) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 C milk
1/2 C sliced pimento stuffed olives
3 ounces noodles, cooked and drained
2 6-1/2 oz cans tuna, drained
1/2 C shredded mozzarella cheese
Melt butter in large skillet.
Remove 3 T and mix with Chex. Set aside.
Saute onion in remaining butter, 5 minutes.
Add soup, cream cheese and milk.
Heat and stir over low heat until smooth.
Remove from heat.
Stir in olives, moodles, tuna and 1 C Chex.
Turn into baking dish.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese,
then remaining Chex crumbs.
Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.
Variation: I do not add onions so also remove 1 T butter.
Note: husband does not care for olives so will replace with more tuna.
From “Chex: The Natural Way to Good Cooking”.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Margaret Chase Smith
Margaret Chase Smith was a politician from Maine. She was the first woman to be elected to both the US House and the Senate. An in 1964 she was also the first woman to have her name placed in nomination for the U.S. Presidency at a major party's convention. She was a Republican.
In addition to these firsts as a woman she is known for her opposition to the tactics of Senator McCarthy. On June 1, 1950, she gave her Declaration of Conscience speech on the floor of the Senate, earning McCarthy's permanent ire and the nickname "Moscow Maggie" from his staff. In 1989, President George Bush presented her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Some of her memorable quotes:
"My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned, not bought. "
"Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk. The right way is not always the popular and easy way. Standing for right when it is unpopular is a true test of moral character. "
"One of the basic causes for all the trouble in the world today is that people talk too much and think too little. They act impulsively without thinking. I always try to think before I talk. "
(Considered UM of HUMORE)
In addition to these firsts as a woman she is known for her opposition to the tactics of Senator McCarthy. On June 1, 1950, she gave her Declaration of Conscience speech on the floor of the Senate, earning McCarthy's permanent ire and the nickname "Moscow Maggie" from his staff. In 1989, President George Bush presented her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Some of her memorable quotes:
"My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned, not bought. "
"Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk. The right way is not always the popular and easy way. Standing for right when it is unpopular is a true test of moral character. "
"One of the basic causes for all the trouble in the world today is that people talk too much and think too little. They act impulsively without thinking. I always try to think before I talk. "
(Considered UM of HUMORE)
Friday, January 4, 2008
AFI Movie Date Night
Tonight we started AFI Movie Date Night.
AFI stands for American Film Institute.
They have a list of top 100 movies.
We plan to watch one a week for the next two years.
We started with #100 - Yankee Doodle Dandy, a musical.
James Cagney played George M. Cohan who's life it is about.
AFI stands for American Film Institute.
They have a list of top 100 movies.
We plan to watch one a week for the next two years.
We started with #100 - Yankee Doodle Dandy, a musical.
James Cagney played George M. Cohan who's life it is about.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Cabinets and LCD
This morning Randy put together two cabinets for the kitchen.
Living in an apartment storage and counter space is minimal.
The cabinets are about 31 inches tall and two feet wide.
There are three (adjustable) shelves covered with doors.
The extra space will allow us to do a little bulk buying of sale items.
Today we started looking closer at whethere to upgrade to LCD tv.
We want a bigger tv and have the wedding/Christmas money to use.
We really did not know anything about LCDs except their existence.
I googled to find review of a brand and found this great site ...
LCD TV: Buying Guide with great advice including an Introduction.
We also watched MirrorMask. A lot on the weird side.
Reminded me of Neverending Story and other like that.
WOW - this was put out by Jim Henson Productions!
I believe this is the movie that I read a review equating
its innovativeness to that of Fantasia. Not sure I agree.
Randy liked it although agreed it is slow till it gets REALLY WEIRD.
Living in an apartment storage and counter space is minimal.
The cabinets are about 31 inches tall and two feet wide.
There are three (adjustable) shelves covered with doors.
The extra space will allow us to do a little bulk buying of sale items.
Today we started looking closer at whethere to upgrade to LCD tv.
We want a bigger tv and have the wedding/Christmas money to use.
We really did not know anything about LCDs except their existence.
I googled to find review of a brand and found this great site ...
LCD TV: Buying Guide with great advice including an Introduction.
We also watched MirrorMask. A lot on the weird side.
Reminded me of Neverending Story and other like that.
WOW - this was put out by Jim Henson Productions!
I believe this is the movie that I read a review equating
its innovativeness to that of Fantasia. Not sure I agree.
Randy liked it although agreed it is slow till it gets REALLY WEIRD.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Amazing Grace
I watched Amazing Grace starring a lot of British actors. Ioan Gruffudd plays William Wilberforce, the man behind getting England to stop the slave trade. Albert Finney plays John Newton, a former slave trader and the author of the song Amazing Grace, who becomes a mentor to Wilberforce. Michael Gambon and Rufus Sewell are the other two British actors I recognized.
The movie was well done in presenting the long struggle that Wilberforce undertook to get the slave trade abolished. The acting was great as well. A movie worth seeing!
The movie was well done in presenting the long struggle that Wilberforce undertook to get the slave trade abolished. The acting was great as well. A movie worth seeing!
Recipes Organized by Category
Dinner Meals:
~~ Very Meaty
Tangy Meatloaf +
Sicilian Meat Roll +
Pot Roast
~~ Casseroles
Chicken Casserole - chicken, green beans and macaroni +
Hamburger Casserole - hamburger, chicken noodle soup, chips +
Hearty Chicken and Noodle Casserole +
Blissful Macaroni Cheese Bake
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Romanoff *
New England Maple Beans and Sausage
~~ Italian/Pasta
Lasagne +
American Goulash/Chop Suey
~~ Other
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie +
Impossibly Easy Bacon Pie +
Impossible Ham Pie +
Impossible Chicken Pie
Burger for a Bunch +
Crock Pot:
Potato Bacon Casserole
Salads:
Cranberry Salad
Blissful Ambrosia (dessert salad)
Ham Salad with horseradish sauce *
Breads and Muffins:
All Bran Muffins +
Banana Bread +
Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins +
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Muffins +
Cranberry Fruit Bread
Cheese Garlic Biscuits
Pineapple Cheese Muffins
Strawberry Muffins
Blueberry Muffins
Sweets - Cookies:
Macaroonies - coconut with choco chips +
Orange Oatmeal Chews - orange juice and rolled oats +
Macadamia White Chip Cookies - mac. nuts, white choco chips +
Snickerdoodles - sugar cookie with cream of tartar
Chocolate Shadows - mint, choco chip, peanut butter
Spicy Crinkles - spices, coconut, rum flavoring
Sweets - Bars/Squares:
Cream Cheese Cookie Bar
Marshmallow Treats
Banana Pudding Squares
Coffee Bars +
Blissful Banana Cream Dessert +
Sweets - Other:
Chocolate Bread Pudding +
(Impossible) Banana Custard Pie +
Macaroon Cookie Cake
Chocolate Cinnamon Sundae Cake
Impossible Brownie Pie *
Chocolate Cherry Crisp
Apple Crisp
Lighter Sweets:
Vitamin Pie - "coffee cake with fruit" +
Pineapple Coffee Cake - could be used for muffins
Maine Apple Cake - similar to coffee cake texture
+ FAVORITES (of both or just one of us)
* NOT a favorite (especially of Randy)
~~ Very Meaty
Tangy Meatloaf +
Sicilian Meat Roll +
Pot Roast
~~ Casseroles
Chicken Casserole - chicken, green beans and macaroni +
Hamburger Casserole - hamburger, chicken noodle soup, chips +
Hearty Chicken and Noodle Casserole +
Blissful Macaroni Cheese Bake
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Romanoff *
New England Maple Beans and Sausage
~~ Italian/Pasta
Lasagne +
American Goulash/Chop Suey
~~ Other
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie +
Impossibly Easy Bacon Pie +
Impossible Ham Pie +
Impossible Chicken Pie
Burger for a Bunch +
Crock Pot:
Potato Bacon Casserole
Salads:
Cranberry Salad
Blissful Ambrosia (dessert salad)
Ham Salad with horseradish sauce *
Breads and Muffins:
All Bran Muffins +
Banana Bread +
Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins +
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Muffins +
Cranberry Fruit Bread
Cheese Garlic Biscuits
Pineapple Cheese Muffins
Strawberry Muffins
Blueberry Muffins
Sweets - Cookies:
Macaroonies - coconut with choco chips +
Orange Oatmeal Chews - orange juice and rolled oats +
Macadamia White Chip Cookies - mac. nuts, white choco chips +
Snickerdoodles - sugar cookie with cream of tartar
Chocolate Shadows - mint, choco chip, peanut butter
Spicy Crinkles - spices, coconut, rum flavoring
Sweets - Bars/Squares:
Cream Cheese Cookie Bar
Marshmallow Treats
Banana Pudding Squares
Coffee Bars +
Blissful Banana Cream Dessert +
Sweets - Other:
Chocolate Bread Pudding +
(Impossible) Banana Custard Pie +
Macaroon Cookie Cake
Chocolate Cinnamon Sundae Cake
Impossible Brownie Pie *
Chocolate Cherry Crisp
Apple Crisp
Lighter Sweets:
Vitamin Pie - "coffee cake with fruit" +
Pineapple Coffee Cake - could be used for muffins
Maine Apple Cake - similar to coffee cake texture
+ FAVORITES (of both or just one of us)
* NOT a favorite (especially of Randy)
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
2007 in Review
Last year was pretty outstanding.
In January Randy and I started courting.
Which means "dating with the expectation of marriage".
In February we celebrated Valentine's with a sweetheart!!!
Come April we pulled off a great April Fool's Prank.
In May Randy turned 46 (I turned 43 in August).
Come June I finished up and sent Randy a scrapbook.
I called it "Only The Beginning" about our last few months.
In August Randy spent his two week vacation here in Maine.
He stayed an extra day to officially propose marriage.
Due to rental obligations were not sure when we could marry.
Come November God provided someone to take over his lease.
So Randy quit his job, packed up and moved here to Maine.
December 1st, 2007 began our life together in wedded bliss.
Yep, a pretty amazing year. God is great!!!!
Thank you God for a wonderful Christian husband.
In January Randy and I started courting.
Which means "dating with the expectation of marriage".
In February we celebrated Valentine's with a sweetheart!!!
Come April we pulled off a great April Fool's Prank.
In May Randy turned 46 (I turned 43 in August).
Come June I finished up and sent Randy a scrapbook.
I called it "Only The Beginning" about our last few months.
In August Randy spent his two week vacation here in Maine.
He stayed an extra day to officially propose marriage.
Due to rental obligations were not sure when we could marry.
Come November God provided someone to take over his lease.
So Randy quit his job, packed up and moved here to Maine.
December 1st, 2007 began our life together in wedded bliss.
Yep, a pretty amazing year. God is great!!!!
Thank you God for a wonderful Christian husband.
Yours Mine and Ours
Today I watched both the old and new version.
It was my first viewing of the newer Dennis Quaid 2005 version.
I was not impressed especially since I love the older version.
The original 1968 version starred Henry Fonda and Lucille Ball.
It was my first viewing of the newer Dennis Quaid 2005 version.
I was not impressed especially since I love the older version.
The original 1968 version starred Henry Fonda and Lucille Ball.
They had changed so much in the newer version even the reason why the movie had "ours" in it. In the original the newly married couple gets pregnant with their 19th child. So many elements of the original were missing in the updated version. I can watch the Lucille Ball version repeatedly. So many great one liners! When I watched it with Randy I laughed in anticipation of the humor coming. But even beyond the humor there was great commentary about living and loving.
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