Michael's Shower

Michael Liu

One of my few childhood friends was a neighbor Michael Liu. I don’t recall talking much with his parents and I wonder now if they spoke much English. I remember that is was hard to get him and/or his brother Eddie to come out and play basketball with us.

I remember how their house always smelled of some Chinese dish. It was very foreign to me, but Michael was always nice to me. I always thought of Eddie and Michael like Bert and Ernie from Sesame Street.

Both were very good pianists and I recall they practiced many hours a day. They kind of discouraged me to continue with my piano lessons.

I wonder where they are now. They moved away and I don’t recall where or if they even told me where.

Winter still?

It was a very nice day today here in Virginia. I even went running!

My Mother barely made it back to Utah. It had snowed pretty badly. The plane refueled in Denver because of the uncertainty that they would be able to land in Salt Lake.

I guess I should be glad that I am not there.

Chocolate Breakfast and Apples

Years ago while on one of our several trips to Disneyland in California, Jonathan order the most interesting breakfast. It was chocolate chip chocolate pancakes with chocolate syrup and chocolate milk. I could not even help him eat it; it was just too much chocolate.

Another time, we got a huge salad bowl with the meal. Tiny, red cherry tomatoes decorated the top of the salad. David got Matthew all excited by telling him that they were little apples.

I watched his tiny hand reach out and grasp one, but before he took it, I had to stop him. It would have been funny to see his reaction when he bit into it, but I didn’t want him to hurl on me.

Goblin Valley

I watched the special features of GalaxyQuest this morning. It was confirmed that it was partially filmed in Goblin Valley in Utah. Some of the deleted scenes were funny. Some were pretty lame.

Anyway, I went to Goblin Valley for a Priest Quorum activity. We spent the night. It was actually a fun trip although I don't recall much about it.

I have yet to go to Moab, UT which I have lots about. Heck, I haven't gone to most or any of the National Parks there!

Brief February

It’s been a quick month. It is hard to believe it is almost March already. I’ve almost been out here for a year now. Well, give me a month or two more.

Honestly there is a lot I would like to post. My many other interests have just demanded too much time. I haven’t even posted much on my NYC trip!

I have no real plans for March or April. I’ve got a few “major” housekeeping transactions I need to make. In May, I might be going to Roanoke, VA. That would be cool, because I’ve never been there. In June, I might go home to Utah for my birthday…I want to use the SkyMiles for a free trip somewhere and that would be the least expensive route.

Bad Grammar

One time I picked up Corryn and there was an awkward pause. I usually said something when I picked her up before. I think she was expecting something too. Then she said, “How you so cute?‘

She repeated what is so often said to her. I thought it was funny and told her it was because of the vitamins that I take.

As we walked out the door she asked “Where us going?”

It was so cute that I couldn’t see myself ever correcting her grammar. Maybe when she gets older… I doubt it. I’ll teach her to ask “What time it is?”

Rush Hour (1998)

I like this PG-13 movie. It was one my little brother thought I would like. Actually, I think I first learned of the movie from TV. I think it was ad for the sequel.

This DVD had some cool special features. One was a isolated soundtrack commentary by the composer. It is interesting to get the view point of several angels on making a movie.

Chris Tucker just makes me laugh and I love watching Jackie kick butt. I like this movie better than the sequel.

Forget the lions.

One of Corryn's latest craves is the Wizard of Oz. She likes to sing her version of the songs and when someone says "oh my" intentionally or otherwise, she will shout "Tigers and Bears!"

"Oh my."

"Tigers and Bears!"

Oh my, she is adorable.

Ownership rights

I think Troy could sense my disturbed flight about handing over a VRE pass. I was not upset that I gave it away. I was bothered that I could not argue on how it was given, or rather taken.

I actually thought about handing it over earlier. It would have been a nice jester and he could use the pass. I decided he would take it as a cheep bribe of sorts so I put it away.

Jeremy left the card on the train. He actually said he didn't want it. At that point it was abandoned.

I took over ownership when I instructed mom to grab it for me. I entertained the idea that I would use it somehow.

In the van, Jeremy asked if l grabbed the card. In affirmation l asked if he wanted it back. He said no but commanded that l give it to Troy.

I wanted to argue that he couldn't transfer ownership unless I gave it back to him. This technicality would have dampened my generally generous demeanor. I just silently handed it over to Troy. So the card was from me because Jeremy refused to take ownership beck when I offered it!

Your welcome Troy. No need to pay me back. I just would have used it to joy
ride.

Talk of Vietnam

Honestly I had been drawn to John Kerry. He sounds like a hero of sorts. A General’s view of a war differs greatly from that of the soldier on the front line. Ok, there was no real front line in Viet Nam, but it is just an expression.

Anyway, Jeremy mocked me when he hit it right on the nose. “You only like Kerry because he was a decorated war hero.” Then he went off on how he is a punk.

Further, it did sound pretty shady when I heard about GW's military history, but just as long as Wes doesn’t get the presidency.

Mardis Gras

It’s Mardis Gras today. I miss the naked chicks. Just joking, I was never fortunate enough to see any. It didn’t help that I didn’t go to any parades either. Oh well, I doubt I would have gone if I wasn’t a missionary.

I do miss the King Cake and the plastic hidden baby in the cake. I got two of them, but nobody held me to buying the next cake. I‘ll have to order one via the Internet one day. Should be good.

Honestly, it was not the best tasting thing in the world. It was just fun.

Cover Up?

Many years ago I made a decision that created an interesting result. I'm not certain this was the first time I made this decision but it was one I remember quite vividly. It was a split second decision.

Was I really that much worse off for makeing that decision? Further, I question why I still make similar decisions.

Anyway, one day as l opened the bathroom cupboard a bottle of expensive cologne fell out and shattered in the sink. It belonged to my little brother.

My first reaction was to hide the evidence. I poured Clorox down the sink. The chemical reaction created a cool blue liquid. The smell was neutralized for the most part. I put the glass shards to one side for removal out of the room.

Then I asked myself why. Why am I doing this? Should I have to hide? It was a mistake. it could happen to anyone.
I tossed the shards in the can.

When I returned to the room hours later, I found the shards on the counter. It was no surprise that my brothers found it, but why had they not approached me?

I tossed them back in the trash can again only to find them on the counter even later.

Irritated, I asked them why this glass keeps appearing. They jumped on me saying I was too stupid to cover the evidence of my purposeful crime.

Missing Stories

While reading from The Book of Mosiah, chapter 22, I thought once again about what minor stories have been left out or not recorded.

I'd like to hear the story of someone who was sent forth to notify the Nephites in Zarahemla that these people were coming. Or a Lamanite spy who discovered the plans of exodus.

These stones would make interesting reading. Well, I think so.

New disclaimer

I should put up a new disclaimer that states that what I post does not solely represent how I feel or what I believe. I have a few things to post that could be taken wring.

Home From New York City

It was a fairly great weekend in New York. It was fun to be with Corryn. There was a lot of new things waiting for me when I got home. New unexpected Netflix movies, Janet Jackson lost her roll in another movie, and lots of spam comments on my blog. I hate spammers!

The rain was unexpected too. It is still warmer than it was in New York City. Corryn got mad when you just said New York.

Well, I hope to post some good things about the trip in the future. In the meantime check the Mannings.org and the soapbox.

Classic Skating

I don't know why I thought of this place as I was singing an "old" song. I remember going to the Orem location on severel summer days. The water slides were pretty boring, but we always had a good time.

I remember walking there, or back from there. I remember the skateing rink, the games, the strobe light, and the tiny practice area. Once, I went by some alias and said I was from California. I think David Brown encouraged the story. We were trying to impress some girls.

Those were some fun memories.

June Coffee - now open!

Um, love that smell. This coffee place on the first floor called June Coffee has finally opened it's doors. You could smell it as you waited for the elevator.

I'll have to go in and sample something one day.

The Sigma Protocol

I listened to this book because a coworker not only suggested t but gave me the CDs to listen to. I was quite interesting although it had a lot of swearing like the Tom Calncy books.

I got lost in the story because I had to concintrate on work stuff too. It was gory and the love sceene was pretty predictable. Overall, I liked it I suppose.

Almost there...

I almost have 600 posts! And I am almost in NYC. I told some one at work "Only two more days and I am out of here."

"Your leaving the company? Why?"

"What? No... I'm going to New York. It is on the calender..."

Gee, I guess I got to watch how I phrase things. Or do they really think I would leave?

What's that noise?

Oh great Heinee, how I worship thee. OK, not really.

I'm not sure I was the one to teach my niece to ask “what is that noise?" when some one releases gas bubbles. I recall Heinee would always say that.

I was laughing so hard when Corryn said it. She is so cute!!!

Sprint PCS, I love thee?

At the time of the writing of this post – which was yesterday, I titled it: I hate Sprint (again)

I haven't received my discount for my new phone! It was over a month since I got the stupid thing! I actually got it that morning, but didn’t get the message until today. I thought it was going to be closer to $100 rebate. I guess I read something wrong. Most likely some gay, evil MBA took my money!

They have serious issues with data integrity on their web site. Well that one remains true. Although I called in and supposedly they changed all references to my condo address, when I paid the bill this after noon, it clearly stated the wrong billing address. At least I was able to pay this time.

Connecting to the Net via the phone is slow and unreliable. That is still true, but I canceled the service. Hopefully they wrote that information to the right database table and will not bill me in the future for it.

One redeeming quality regarding the phone is that if it can not vibrate against something (i.e. it is on a soft surface like the couch or a pillow) it will ring audibly. Pretty nice if I drop my phone on the bed and someone tries to call. I usually keep it in vibrate mode because I am kind of deaf and it is habit to have the ringer off.

Poor misunderstood Corryn

I know my niece can get very frustrated when I can not understand her. She knows what she is saying but sometimes I do not. The other day, she kept repeating something. I ignored her at first then she started to get a bit angry. I then gave her complete attention but to no avail. I had no idea what she wanted.

Like a two year old, she through a tantrum, and managed to get her hair caught. She was screaming something, but that was hard to understand too. I freed her finger that was caught. That wasn’t it. I started to lift the baby toy stroller of her and noticed her head move awkwardly.

Quickly, I managed to get her hair untangled and the screaming stopped. It only I understood that she wanted the stroller seat fixed at the start none of that would have happened.

Notre Dame

I went on a quick walk after I noticed that the mail carrier was still delivering mail. I was without a coat and thought I could get to the mall before the bank closed. Well, it closed an hour earlier and I was cold.

No problem I thought, I’ll just go to Old Navy and get a fleece and some sweat pants like I was going to do. Well, that store was gone. Two jerks hounded my about a new cell phone while I looked around for another store.

I stopped in at one hip place and could barely hear my niece when she called me to ask what my favorite color was. I went on to Finish Line and saw a Virginia sweat shirt for $60. It had a hood, but it was too expensive. I saw a Georgetown one for $45. Not bad, Naomi would like it because she goes to that school. Then I saw a $30 price tag for Georgia one.

Turns out the tag was on a Notre Dame sweat shirt. Cool, now everyone will think I am a fan and I couldn’t tell you what state they are in. The shirt was marked down because it must have been returned. There was no security tag on it and it was very large. Other than that, it looked alright.

Mike and Ike

“What a great combination”, I said about a year ago. Kevin, who was the only one in the group that knew it was my birthday, bought me a box of Mike And Ikes.

“Who’s Ike?” Someone finally asked.

“Um, Ike Eisenhower.”

The name didn’t register. “President Eisenhower.”

Still no audible comprehension. “General, Eisenhower who commanded the forces on D-Day... President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower.”

Andrew fiddled through the radio stations and found a pleasant song with bells. He changed the station because the song was pretty raunchy. I figured I should tell him that song now playing wasn’t any better.

“You might want to change the station.” I said.

Kevin got defensive. “No, this is as great song.”

“Yeah, I thought you would recognize it too.”

I told Andrew later the song was AC/DC’s Highway to Hell. “It sounded like a nice song at the start.”

Anyway, I went to my favorite story again and bought too much goodies. Among this was a couple boxes of Mike And Ikes. I’ll bring some to NYC, but I doubt I’ll be able to give Corryn very many. And it is in her best interests.

Lame history in the making

Thus Gay Marriage is pretty gay, but I guess it has some finical benefits if you can put someone down as a spouse. Soon, you will be able to marry your dog or cat. Why not marry your computer! I’d be a polygamist! Go gay guys, open the door, just say the hell away from me!

From Michael Jackson, to his topless sister; Martha Stewart to Homeland security… This truly is the most lame century ever. Well, I guess whoremongers like Clinton, and Kerry will always be banal. So can it get worse? Yeah, probably. So why not eat, drink, and be marry?

Coaxial Man

When Comcast buy's Disney, are they going to add Coaxial Man and the cable guy to Mickey's Toon town?

Are they going to be able to handle the hotel and food services or are they going to spawn them off to Marriot or someone else?

First Bad DVD

I just got my first unplayable DVD from NetFlix. So I guess I won’t get to see Snowball Express for a while. Last time I saw this movie was over ten years ago.

I liked the movie when I was a kid. I wonder if it would be just as good now that I am older.

Disney almost always has great movies.

Satan, Vader and De Ridder

I never served in De Ridder, LA but I went down there several times. I remember the old county jail. We took a tour of it.

Elder Sutton a new missionary or "greeny" was there. I called him Satan but I knew he would make a great missionary - and he did. He bacame an assistant to the president. He was one of few people from Idaho that I liked.

l ate this double patty, giant hamburger at some China grill cafe. I was told it was against the Word of Wisdom and no missionary could eat the whole thing. Well, I did. It was a really big one.

We pulled a life size Darth Vader sign out of the Pizza Hut garbage bin. I understand a a few weeks of hanging on tie wall, it became Elder Vader during District Meeting.

President’s Day

I was excited to get home ever since I left Woodbridge. We took a wrong turn and ended up in Dumfries, VA. It was a good day. When I got home I decided to post some entries I made over the weekend while watching the Star Trek Next Generations DVD.

It was pretty pathetic stuff. The DVD too.

Soon I will be in NYC and back with my favorite niece.

Valentines Day

Went bowling and watched bits and pieces of several movies with Corryn. I think Toy Story 2 was the only one that was completed again. Well, we saw Wizard of Oz in fast forward. I got to baby sit my favorite niece. It was really fun, but she got really tired although she wouldn’t admit it.

Last year I got a room in the Salt Lake Hilton and had a few University of Utah friends over. We watched Willow. I could not figure out how to turn the AC so it got very warm after a while.

Remarketing Marketing

I'm of the opinion you can sell anything. Slap the motif of something popular and you can sell it over and over again.

Corryn had some Dora treats last time I was there, which are just gummy treats. This time, she had Wiggle treats, which are pretty much the same thing.

Lego is a perfect example of what I mean. I remember when the Star Wars theme was marketed. When Harry Potter came out those rods used as light sabers now became wands.

MHOP Hotel

The Manning hotel has expanded into the pancake business.

Everyday this weekend I had pancakes at the Manning house. It might be a while now, before I make them for myself. I could have had some this morning, but since I ate all the pie I figured I should let my sister have the leftover pancakes.

It was a fun weekend.

Deep Impact

As I watched the show again, I found the soundtrack to be very appealing. I wonder if that was on reason I liked the movie so much before and am just realizing it now. I thought it was especially cool because I am close to a lot of scenes in the movie.

I believe I first saw the show at a theater in Slidell, LA. I was visiting some people down there.

I remember getting ''lost" in the movie. At the end of the show I was so convinced in my mind I was at the Wynnsong 12 in Provo, UT.

You can imagine the shock I encountered when I felt the humidity, once outside. It harshly brought me back to reality. I wasn't any where near home!

Vladivostok?

The first time I went to the Lost Dog café in Arlington, I thought my sister asked if I had been to Vladivostok. I had just recently found out where it was so I was confused by what she meant.

Vladivostok came up in movies like Down Periscope. I had asked my brother-in-law where it was. I knew he would no.

Anyway, Lost Dog was pretty fun place. Last time I went Corryn spilled coke all over me. It was actually pretty funny.

Lincoln's Birthday

It was a very great day. I had lunch with Naomi in Pentagon Row. It was a good time. Should have acquired a small flower arrangement or even given her a hug, I’m just no good at things like that.

Stopped in to get all my fare cards exchanged into one. They only took 10 and split the amount between two seperate cards! What was the use of combineing them than?

Work was fine. I went with the guys to Joe's after work for a while. Both roommates were home. I get to see Corryn tomorrow - I need a picture of her in my wallet. I noticed I have my nephews' pictures, but not hers.. Anyway, later I will watch Deep Impact tonight.

Kick this pig!

I watched Down Periscope because my latest Netflix installment is taking forever to get here!

Anyway, this movie is really funny. I like moves about the armed forces for the most part. It kind of idolizes the service.

I'm not sure if I mentioned that I tried to join the Navy prior to Sept. 11, 2001. I tired prior to mission and they seemed willing to work with me, but not this time.

Oh well, I kind of work for the Navy now. Some days I think i am the only one that doesn't know all this “ship” lingo.

Pure Religion

Elder Wright shared the scripture with me after we visited
this widow in Morgan City, LA.

Years later while working in the cannery, l reflected on that again. I really believe service is what religion is all about.

Most of the time, I sit through hours of meetings feeling that I had not accomplished anything.

Our Heritage

I remember a story my grandma told me about my ancestors. I even recall the story was published in a book.

Anyway, the story takes place in Norway. I understand it as the “family” introduction to the Church.

One year a cart of missionary pamphlets was found on the shore line. It was among other cargo that also washed ashore.

Apparently some lady, possibly an ancestor of mine found the cart, liked what she read, dried out the papers, and handed them out.

By the time missionaries came to the small town many where fairly well informed and interested in joining.

New Roommate

I wonder how long he will be here. The only reason he is here is to be with his girlfriend. He is never around so it seems. I saw him at Church though, so I guess he is alive.

Nate was a good guy. I liked him for the most part.

Nice day

The last few days have been very nice as far as the weather is concerned. Chilly at times, but a lot nicer this below 30s.

I had a temple recommend interview and came out with a resume request. That was pretty cool, but I wonder if it will go anywhere.

Generations

This show although fairly silly in plot, has some really awesome lines. I love Data and his emotion chip.

I teased a coworker that he is like Data when it comes to Updates for his computer.

"Searching for Updates. I love searching for Updates. Tiny little Updates... Where are you?"

It was pretty cool that the Enterprise got destroyed.

I also like the wooden boats scene. It reminded me of book 2 in my Zem series. I have yet to write a post about it.

Public Transportation is for losers?

I would have to aggie with Homer at times. At other times, it is not an option out here. The metro is very nice because it comes very frequently and it is very reliable. Busses on the hand are a double edged sword.

Very unpredictable, but are often better than walking and less stressful than running – which I need to do more of. Especially now that it is getting warmer (hopefully). Anyway, I just hate waiting.

I went to this Colonial FHE at the chapel (church) where the Elders put on a pancake dinner and show for the sisters. I just went to help out. I was gone about 3 hours. About an hour was spent just waiting. (Of course, I didn’t look up the bus schedule for the trip home.)

Vain Valentine’s gifts?

Last time I spent this much on a fruitless gift, it was back when I was in high school. The lady was Natalie Jones. The gift was, what I thought, a really nice sweater. It was cold in February at the time.

I think she wore the sweater one time to a church activity and came over to where we were standing. I think she knew who it was from, but being too shy or what not, I didn’t "play my cards right”… I suppose that is why she lied to me a few months later when I finally got the courage to ask her out.

Hold on, it was a Christmas gift and I asked her out around Valentine’s Day. So this year is the first purchase of it’s kind? I think so, maybe it would have meant more had we known each other better.

Ah, I figure if I’m not giving my money to someone that I choose, I’ll just get it taken from me by someone I didn’t choose. Oh well, maybe something good will result out of this.

Quizno Creatures

Have you seen those new Quiznos commercial? What in the world are those singing creatures? My goodness, I thought SuperDell was bad.

I suppose those emotional response commercials might work for the computer world but it doesn’t seem too appetizing with the foods industry. Next time you bite into a toasted sub one of the hairy creatures will come screaming that you didn’t get a coupon. What a disgusting thought.

Men at Work

I liked this movie. I remember how it was on like every Saturday. David and I would always catch the end of the show. I was finally able to see the very beginning.

My sister didn’t seam to like the show and that was always on my mind as I watched it tonight. Had I not liked it years ago, I might not have watched it now.

I like seeing these “brothers” together. I was told they were brothers but it has yet to be confirmed.

Colonial ACTCOM

It is a clever code for Activities Committee. I went by the church building just to socialize a bit. They were going o the Air and Space Museum by Dulles and not the Air and Space Smithsonian in DC.

I took notice of my sweatheart and my heart melted. I thought she was definitely not a C3 candidate. She dresses like a Newel. I don’t know where that thought came from. I tried to talk to her, but ACTCOM took control and started to give orders.

I snick out and went to work. It was alright for the most part. The cable guy kept calling and finally I got home for the appointment. It was a simple fix and now my TV tuner card is back online!!!

Strange lady

l went to dinner with a strange lady once. She was studying to be a physicist at the time.

I must have said something bad about animal nights activists or something because she got on my case.

''Why is it we think we are the only intelligent creatures?"

I didn't want to argue. It was hard enough just to get her to talk about anything!

I learned she liked science fiction and I asked if she thought we would ever be able to travel as they do in the movies.

No response. I further asked if she believed there were other life forms out there. I tried to stay clear of the term intelligent.

"I reserve my opinion on the matter" she said.

I began to explain my understanding and she went off with something similar to the statement abut the animals, mentioned above.

I was glad to get out of that conversation.

About a year later I learned she changed her major to geography. That was quite the jump I thought, but never cared to ask her why she changed. I just figured she learned it was easier to memorize stuff.

Space Exploration

Assuming we can ever travel beyond our Solar System (or beyond the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, for that matter), would we find other "intelligent" creatures out there like those in Star Trek, Star Wars, Galaxy Quest, etc.?

I dare say no. Other creatures or life forms? Yes; plants, animals or other biological creatures.

If you believe this, I would say this is all you’d find ... other humans.

An animal is a "simple" creature, without agency, obedient to the laws of nature. Generally bound to it's habitat.

Show me an animal, besides a human, that is able to craft an object that can enable it to fly higher (or fly in general), swim further and run faster and I will acknowledge it is more than just an animal.

This God given ability is unique to man. To the faithless or misled, sounds arrogant that man alone has dominion or is more than just an animal.

Near, far, where ever you are

I like the Titanic song. I liked the movie, but I have never watched it more than the first time in the theater. Honestly, at the time I saw it, the second they pulled the picture out of the water I was hoping they would show the actress…

Soon this controversy broke out between this editing place in Pleasant Grove I think and the producers and what not. The store would edit the Titanic on tape for customers that wanted it done. The producers’ et al. argued it ruined the artistic value… I disagreed and vowed never to watch it again.

I think James Cameron just had a zipper issue of his own.

This Just in: Finished the book

Speaking of New York City, Bob ended the book with the 9/11 story. It was a rather good book. It had some good insights and funny stories.

Turns out the media was well away of Clinton’s "zipper issue" as it was called even before he became President. Meaning that he was always a “ladies man” and what not. Bob also said what my brother-in-law said once that Clinton was the most delightful and fun president compared to the past and latest president.

Bob said that he liked covering the Pentagon more than the State Department head quarters. He said the Pentagon was a place of action and if left to itself, it would take action. Where the State Department if left to itself would do absolutely nothing.

Only Time: Work

Going into a crunch period and I should go into work tomorrow. I have plans to join a group from the Colonial Ward. We are going to the Air and Space Museum in the morning.

I will go with for an hour or so.

Next week, I’m going to my favorite place out here which is not my favorite store incidentally. I get to baby sit my favorite niece. I’ll pay more attention to her now that I traded my news and Simpson hour for Netflix and a plethora of movies.

The week after that, I’ll be n New York City! I’m excited, but it’ll be way cold. They better have an indoor pool.

Always

My first Netflix movie was Always. It was recommended by a coworker. It was good, but I honestly fat forwarded though all the lovey-dovey stuff.

I thought it was cool John Goodman was in it. The airplane sceens were nothing like Iron Eagle or Top Gun, but you get a good sense of every day heroism.

I liked it, but it wasn’t a favorite. There are a lot of shows in that category, but it is all good.

Solicitors

Some punk came to my door selling something. There is a no solicitor policy here but I was in a good mood and bought some expensive crap. I didn’t understand a word he was saying so I just gave him the money.

I promised some other kid around Christmas time that I would donate to his cause, but I never went back to where he was freezing in the snow… So, I guess this makes up for it.

Christmas in July

Rhett Rhese and I went to Central Utah one year. I think it was in July. Anyway, we had plans to go to Yuba Lake, catch up with an old missionary companion of mine at the Manti Temple, and go back to the Foote's house.

Brandon and his wide were very accommodating. We watched a movie made in Baton Rouge. I had completely "lost myself" there and it was quite a shock to see myself on film.

The next morning we fed the cows and Rhett and I headed back for home, after a good breakfast. We made a quick stop in Cove Fort.

Anyway, on the drive I started singing "I'm dreaming of a White Christmas." It was kind of funny actually because we just finished, or rather I just finished talking about how I liked Melanie Carter.

The code name stuck. C2, short for Christmas 2, came out a year or so later. I think I got "Christmas" happy and got up to C5, but I can only name C2 (Michelle Curtis now I think.).

I remember where C5 lives. I could probably identify her in a line up, but she doesn't meet Christmas standards. I think her only relation was that she took oboe lessons from Christmas herself.

Anyway, [*****] makes a good candidate for C3. Too bad too, she was a nice lady.

Melanie Tenny from high school would make a good Christmas too, but she was before Christmas’s time.

Nothing new under the sun

Well, my roommate has embarked on his cross country journey. He is moving from Washington, DC back to Washington state. Nate was a good guy, he left me a few presents: laundry soap, some nick knacks, but of most value, some metro fare cards totaling over $10!

Now, I can get them combined into one. The metro has a thing that they won’t combine them if you have less than 10 cards. It kind of bytes, but it gives me an excuse to go to the Pentagon.

I left work early because I felt I put in a lot today. Besides, I stayed later yesterday.

Speaking of bytes, Aaron Skonnard has a blog site. I learned about it from Don Box. He is a professor of sorts at the new software development school in Utah. He also writes MSDN magazine articles on XML.

Other than that, nothing of real importance happened today.

NetFlix - just joined

I finally just joined NetFlix. I have already got 90 movies lined up. Dang, I hope it is worth while.

It is worth the space. I mean, I can watch what I want and not have to buy and store the DVD. I don't have to bust my butt to go to Blockbuster... Should be fun.

Three old fishermen

There were three retired gentlemen who liked to fish on the reservoir every Sunday Morning. When they started this annual event, the wooden rowboat called Baitor was nice and sturdy. Over the years the boat deteriorated and one day it sprung a leak. The men scrambled back to shore before it capsized.

A new boat was definitely a priory but it took a while to decide on which boat to get. They decided to pool their money to get a motor boat and a big one at that so they could take their grand kids out on the reservoir too.

Anyway, when it came down to decideing on the name one suggested it be call Lord Baitor after the English as a sign of prestige and power.

“Very well,” the other agreed. “But the King has more power and prestige. Let’s call it King Baitor.”

The third thought in silence for a while. Then with a huge grin, “I know, let’s call it the Master Baitor.”

A grand loss

One night in Morgan City, LA. I found myself without sensation. It was like my whole body was numb.

We went to ER after the words in a blessing knawel away at me for about an hour.

Last time something like this happened it was years ago and blamed on a tiny growth on a blood vessel in the back of my head (pons area). The hemorrhage had put pressure en the brain... The growth was supposedly removed.

I had some MRI scans taken. The results were forwarded to a doctor who was a member of the branch there.

45 minutes later I felt fine. The MRI scan showed nothing out of the ordinary. I was free to go.

Sister Tueller called to ask if my insurance was going to cover this. She thought it was a regular occurrence. I then explained it was not. She said “not to worry, the Church will take can of it.”

It happened twice more after that, both on my mission, but I ignored it. It has never happened since.

I was not going to put the Church out another grand on my account.

The only good that came out of that is the nurse learned that the Mormon Church which the doctor belonged to was the same Church we represented.

This Just in

I got this book on CD from the library. It is good too. So far I have only listened to 4 of the 13 CDs.

Most of what I heard today was about his experience on covering Vietnam as a reporter. I went through a range of thoughts and I doubt I’ll get them all down.

I didn’t know about six month’s prior to LBJ’s public statement that he was not going to run again for president, he knew the war was a dead end path in his political carrier. I always thought it was a given, but apparently most of the nation was shocked.

Although Bob had personal insight that the military was lying about the status of the war, he was also disturbed by the announcement. The military had complete control of the news media and only told what the people wanted to hear.

I wonder if the early protestors to the war knew that it was a dead end for the nation. France was getting out, but they are always doing that. Seriously though, I can honestly see that view point but riots in any shape or form are pretty much uncalled for.

I know that puts me at odds with cool riots in history such as the Boston Tea Party, but I shook my head in shame and disappointment when I learned about the riots after the Super Bowl game.

Anyway, I admire the men or boys who went out to fight for this cause. I need to be more respectful when I learn of other people’s experiences from that war.

My roommate’s fiancé told me that her Dad was an EMT in the Army during Vietnam and he liked the people and the country. My Dad has very little good to say about either and for the most part, I would agree. Bob mentioned that it was pointless to help the country when they didn’t want to fight for themselves.

I watched an episode from MASH the other day. I know it isn’t Vietnam, but you kind of get the idea of what an EMT might have gone through as apposed to what my Dad saw. In this episode Father Mulcahy was heckled because he was safe in this mobile hospital. Anyway, he goes out to the front line to get a better feel for it and comes back with more appreciation for what was going on.

I still believe that overall Vietnam was a stupid thing to get involved in, but I think that more was gained from the mistakes made. Besides it is in the past, no sense crying over spilled milk.

Corryn Rocks

When Corryn was asked if she needed a fork, she said "no, it's a dinglehopper."

About six months ago I got Corryn to eat apricots. I think she ate too many of them because they didn't agree with her stomach. I felt bad and I have tried to get her to eat other dried fruit. When she has a choice, she will always choose apricots.

I'm trying to get her to like Charlie Brown and Garfield. One day I hope to find out and encourage her to follow her dreams... Maybe she'll want to be an astronaut.

I think she is starting to realize that I'm not as cool as she once might have thought I was. Sure, she'll still follow me, sit by me, mimic me ... last time I was down there I was hot and sat by the fan. Corryn sat next to me and asked ''Now what?'”

Hmm, stories make you think.

Today was an interesting day as far as obtaining stories of people and past events. I have always been quick to jump on someone, not literally. Far from it really, I am more likely to ignore someone or despise them in secret. I am less likely to be nice in my own shower!!!

Anyway, I learned some things about Wes Clark and John Kerry. Notice I didn’t say Wuss? I also got an interesting view point on Vietnam – which I hope to write down before I forget it.

Not that I thought much about the silly controversy between an Army general and a Navy lieutenant in this article, but the article did add insight on their stories. I still think Doc is the best though.

Oh baby

Well, this Super Bowl stunt only adds to my distaste for the whole industry.

Michael Jackson's image gets a "kick to the groin" from his own sister. Justin, with his assotiation with the Whore of America (Brittany Spears), already was on my hate list. His comment to Hollywood crap show only puts him in deeper.

A Different Drummer: My Thirty Years with Ronald Reagan

I went to the library and got this book on CD. I have always liked Reagan. I thought it would be good to listen to it while I was working.

I got an extension for my expensive ear phones that I got from my favorite store.

It’s been really good so far.

Groundhog Day

I liked this show. Well, I liked the idea that one could get trapped in to reliving the same day over. It would be fun for a while, but one day I would be left to looking for beneficial things to do, just like Bill Murray figured out after a while.

I remember my sister saying.”Imagine what you could learn, if you repeated a day over and over like that."

Impressive statement, but honestly not so unexpected. If one of my brothers had said this then I really would have been shocked.

Anyway, I like the cold but even in Utah the freezing temptress have persisted for too long. It's ridiculous!

Good game, good commercials

I missed the boob show Oh well, good thing I guess.

Most commercials were good. Only one AOL commercial got a laugh.

I thought the Patriots were going to stomp on the Panthers after watching the first quarter, but the game was very spectacular. I’m glad I watched it.

There was a CES fireside last night too. I didn’t want to listen to all the arguments about going to the broadcast over the game, so I attended a ward that met at an earlier time. Why go the broadcast when you can catch it latter on the web site?

Cloak & Dagger (1984)

I liked this movie. I don't remeber it too much, but I think it was this movie that I found out Dad had not seen everything before. Prior to this, I remember pestering my Dad during every movue who was who and what was what.

I am still pretty slow on catching on to what is being presented to me. A few years ago, I watched Joe Versus the Volcano (1990) at someone's house. I was told Meg Ryan was in it.

I watched the whole thing trying to find her. At the end I asked which of the three women was Meg Ryan. I felt stupid when they told me all three of them were her. D'oh!

Space Shuttle Columbia

It’s hard to believe it was a year ago today when the space shuttle blew apart on reentry. Frankly, the Challenger was more dramatic. Maybe I’m just too much of a jerk, but I don’t feel sorry for those astronauts.

It is my understanding that most of the astronauts stem out of the military. If true, they have already pledged their lives to the country. So, I guess they are only fulfilling their duty.

Anyone who assumes the risk of space travel shouldn’t be all shocked when accidents happen. As for me, I’ll stay right here on the ground until they have a comparable ship to that in Star Trek the Next Generation.

Tomb Raider

I finally broke down and watched the boob movie. Frankly Boob (“Bay”) Watch would have been more interesting. I guess the movie would make more sense if I ever played the game.

I thought it was actually a comical movie. There were several places I just laughed because it was so silly. My favorite scene was where I predicting the guy getting thrown into the black acid seconds before it happened. It was like watching Walker, Texas Ranger.

The scene where she saw the map was just like one I saw in the Mummy movies. Before those strange creatures showed up, I thought I was watching Predator.

Over all for the action I guess it was good. Doubt I’ll watch it again though.