The Sea Lions Have Gone Away

The Sea Lions have disappeared from San Francisco, and it's made the news just about everywhere. There's only a dozen or so remaining now. I hope they come back. It's so sad that there isn't enough food in the harbor to feed them. It's a low herring year apparently. How sad is that?

Stores and Banks Left Unlocked

What the heck is going on? In my region over the holidays we had not one, but two grocery stores left unlocked during closed hours ... and a bank!

It sounds crazy, doesn't it? Two Safeway stores both were found open by customers. In what may be a resurgence of holiday spirit and honesty, some people actually did their shopping and left money at the checkout counters! Others shrugged and left. Fortunately, consumers also called the police. According to Safeway, they believe that it was a failure in the locks. Survelliance footage shows the stores being locked. However, both are 24/7 stores except for holidays and they think people showing up and yanking on the doors just caused them to open. Me thinks new locks are about to be installed in Safeway stores using this current system.

And now comes word that on Christmas Eve a Wells Fargo Bank was left unattended. A customer say a sign that said the bank was closing at 2, but the doors were open. She went inside. No one was there. She called the cops, and the bank manager was on the scene in less than a hour to close the place down.

Are we just in a hurry, or what? I sure am glad I don't bank at Wells Fargo!

Batteries Exposed!

This was a 'wow' moment for me when I read about the dishonesty of Energizer with their 'D' batteries. Who knows? Maybe it even extends more than this. It also probably even is done by other companies. Consumers, we need to get on our toes here. This is just wrong.

For the details, go here Energizer "D" Battery Exposed. It's just amazing and not in a good way.

Reindeer Cleared to Land in California

It's official! K. Kringle's reindeer can land in California! This is big news! The full story is here.

Back to the Dentist

Well, it was back to the dentist today. Would you believe it? I broke a tooth, vertically yet. There's always something to interfere with my fun. I have a great dentist, though, so that's the good part.

Balloon Boy's parents were sentenced today to jail time, 90 days for him and 20 for her. Personally, I think she should have had 90 days as well. She did nothing to stop it and was as complicit as he was, so why the lighter sentence?

Did you hear about the otters that delayed a plane flight after escaping from their cages? I would have loved to have seen that. Apparently, some passengers found little 'presents' from the otters afterwards on their luggage.

Onward!

The Best Made Plans

Here I was all set to update frequently and right off the bat, things just piled up. Short form, had a company fraudulently make three charges on my credit card, had a problem with my computer and mouse operation which nearly killed the computer and have been going back and forth with a tech about it, and wasn't feeling well most of the week. Ugh!

On a brighter front, I'm making a lot of progress with my fan fic. It's so good to be actively writing again. There will be a bunch of new stories for the new year.

Does anyone ever use Sam's Club Click'n'Pull? I have to tell you that it's supposed to be a smooth process, but I've only had two experiences when it went as planned. Most of the time, including today, it's a freakin' nightmare. I have to use it, though; it's the only way I can shop there, but I really wish they'd get their act together. Most of the time, they can't even find the order, or they have it in three different places and never remember to bring all three orders. It's a pain in the mik'ta.

More later!

Happy Holidays!

Wow! Yes, I've been neglectful over the past five to six weeks, but I'm back in business and out to keep up my blog much better than over recent times. I think about coming here so often, but then get distracted.

Here's a recommendation for the day. If you're interested in e-readers and other types of things, there's a new forum and blog site called Read Gadget where I've been helping out a little. I actually have a blog there, too, so drop on over for all kinds of topics there.

I'm loving the festive holiday music I'm hearing everywhere, especially on a local radio station that it is playing nothing but Christmas music. They started the week before Thanksgiving. Some may call it overkill. I just call it joyful.

Drop on by this blog more regularly as I intend to make lots of little blog entries much more frequently! In the meantime, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

Custom Pocket Calendars and More

Amsterdam is a quality oriented company that provides promotional items and human resource forms at great prices. I had a look through several of their pocket calendars and found so many neat ones of interest. I was impressed with their varied selection. They can customize these calendars to fit the needs of your business, charity, organization, or event. The prices seemed pretty good and are on a sliding scale. The more you purchase, the less the price per unit.

The site is easy to navigate and everything is crisp and clear, making it easy to read. I loved that it wasn't cluttered, either. It was very easy to find the pocket calendars I was interested in and then to move on and explore other items in their inventory.

This is a company that began as one man print shop in 1898 and has blossomed into a super store of promotional items. They are definitely worth checking out.

Maria Shriver, What Are You Doing?

This is just shameful. Just a couple of weeks after her fiasco being caught talking on her cell phone while driving, which is illegal in California, now she apparently parked in a red zone for over an hour while visiting the doctor.

Maria, you are the supposed to be the First Lady of California. People look up to you, not just for that respected position, but as a representative of the Kennedy family. You are disrespecting all of us, and your heritage by doing these outrageous things. You are not beyond the rules. What would Uncle Teddy say?

Get it together, Maria. You certainly aren't doing your husband any good right now. In fact, you're dragging him done. What a shame. I used to respect you so much, but your disrespect of the law and your meek and lame apologies just aren't cutting with me anymore.

Get the Proof on the Cheaters in your Life

Sadly, the reality is that we are often more vested in our relationships with our significant others than they are in us, and that sometimes means they cheat. Getting the proof on your cheating spouse isn't easy, but by going to www.CallerIDFaker.com, you can find a tool that can help you. Basically, you use the Caller ID of the person you believe your husband or significant other is cheating on you with, using your husband's phone. See how your partner answers the phone, and that will answer your questions. Visit www.CallerIDFaker.com for all the details.

First Impressions and Quality Invitations

As the saying goes, first impressions are so very important, and that goes way beyond our initial opinions of meeting someone in person. It also includes announcements and invitations. A lot of people will pre-judge an event simply by the quality and look of their card or invite, and that's why when you need to spread the word, you want to go with the best.

If you are in need of holiday cards, Invitation Professionals deserve a look. For over a decade, they've supplied their quality products through Carlson Craft, Regency, and Birchcraft. Their prices are awesome and most are discounted some 35% from the retail pricing. Naturally, their quality is high.

So, whatever your need is, holiday cards, wedding invitations, birth and graduation announcements, or even Bar Mitzvah invitations, give Invitation Professionals a look.

The Forgotten

I read a couple of days ago that the ratings for The Forgotten haven't been that great. I suppose that's not a big surprise. TV shows that I like in this modern day don't tend to last long. I like good, old fashioned drama, the kind without vulgarity, profanity, and too much realistic grit. If I want to see that, I can watch the news or surf to a lot of places on the internet.

The Forgotten stars Christian Slater. Now, I'm not a fan of Slater's. I haven't even ever had a positive thought about him float through my mind. But, let me say up front, he's great in this show. He's surrounded by several other actors I've never heard of before, but they all fill a function in the series.

This drama deserves a shot. Viewers, you haven't seen this angle of the crime drama done on television before. It's new. Slater and his pals work for The Forgotten Network, people across the country who work to identify John Does and Mary Does after the police can no longer work the cases. This is fascinating. It's good drama, and we haven't seen it done this way before.

As I said, there is little blood and gore, and that's why I'm watching it. I don't like the Law and Orders and ERs that think that you have to have blood everywhere and cuss every paragraph to have good drama.

I sense the show is doomed because I love it. I really do love it.

For the record, it's on Tuesday evenings after Dancing with the Stars. Give it a shot; set the DVR. I'd like to see it at lease survive the season.

Shop at Amazon and Help Me!

Hi Everyone,

With the holidays close at hand, I just wanted to do a reminder post to say that if you use the Amazon link on the right hand side of this blog to start your shopping, that no matter what you purchase, as long as you start by clicking on that Amazon link, I'll get credit for it. That's actually true for any ads you see on the right hand side.

Thanks for your continued support!

NASCAR Nationwide Invocation -- Inappropriate

There's a time and a place. I love NASCAR and I'm sitting here, working on a fic for my universe while watching the opening ceremonies for the Nationwide Race. It's at Concord, North Carolina. Well, we start with the invocation, a pretty standard little thing, spoken by some local pastor or faith person. This guy thought he was at a holy rollers meeting or something, though.

Honestly, I've never heard a prayer like this before for a race. He was almost in song, going on about having three-wide racing of banging and thrills. I was like, 'huh'? This is a moment that the drivers are with their families, and trust me, the wives don't want to hear what this guy was praying for.

I didn't pay attention to the name -- Joe Andresen, or something like that. I hope to never hear another word of praise from him because it was just in poor taste.

Last week during the NASCAR Cup Series race, Jesse McCartney messed up the national anthem. I mean, it was bad. He forgot the lyrics and ended up repeating, but at least he was singing the song he was supposed to sing. This Andresen fella needs a lesson in being appropriate.

Fortunately, Trace Adkins did a very nice rendition of the national anthem to get us through the opening ceremonies.

Congrats to Carl and Kate Edwards

I just heard that one of my favorite NASCAR drivers, Carl Edwards, is soon to be a daddy. His wife Kate is expecting their first child sometime next February. I adore Carl and think this is very exciting news.

Carl is fighting to beat Kyle Busch for the Nationwide Championship. Last week he could the lead down to 155. It's a big number, but nothing is impossible.

Go get him, Carl!

California's Unemployment

I keep hearing that things are getting better. Prices are starting to go back up as well. The recession is either over or about to be over. That's what they are saying. However, today California's unemployment rate is a whopping 12.2%. Where I am specifically, it's not quite there. It's just 11.8%. I wonder what these unemployed folks think about the news that things are getting better.

Using My George Foreman Grill

When it comes to cooking, I value convenience and as little cleanup as possible above everything else, which is why I'm a huge fan of the George Foreman Grill. I only have a little one, but I've had it for years. Lately, though, I was wondering if it was possible to grill eggs on the grill. Typically, on a basic Foreman grill, that's not something you can do.

I did a quick search because, hey, you can find everything on the web, and sure enough, I found a site of someone who had experimented and come up with a way of making scrambled eggs on the grill. I tried it the other day, and it works! I actually e-mailed the webmasters to say thanks, but haven't received a reply back, and that's okay. I'm thrilled about my new option and decided to share it.

So, if you are curious, just click here and enjoy!

Shame on Maria Shriver

I'm really very disappointed in California's first lady, Maria Shriver. She's not just the governor's wife, but she's a Kennedy, and there is inherent responsibility there to be a positive example. Maybe it's wrong, but that's just the truth of the matter.

This week, TMZ caught Maria driving while talking on her cell phone, which is illegal in California. Her response was an ultra brief apology along with some line about giving her phone to a women's charity. I was shocked. I don't feel any remorse or even responsibility coming from her.

My respect level for Maria went from a 10 (seriously, I've had a very positive image of her until this incident) to about a 5. She broke the law, and she needs to be upfront about that and say more than a 10-second apology and some dribble about giving her phone away.

Maria, I thought you were better than this.

Torrents: Easy Downloads

Torrents are a great way to download all kinds of media for free. At the QueenTorrent website, you can search for games, films, TV shows, music, and more. They have a powerful search engine with a very simple interface. All you need to do is type in the subject of the torrents you want to find. I typed in the name of my favorite actor, Patrick Swayze, and found two pages worth of interesting torrents off the bat. QueenTorrent is updated daily, its bots covering thousands of sites with torrent files to add to their massive database, meaning that there is always something new and exciting to be found.

Dry Up That Water Damage

No matter what the season, water damage can mess up your property big time. It's not something you want to let go, or it can wreak havoc with your property and your property values. That's why it's a good idea to visit water damage San Diego, the website of a company that understands that water damage left out of control is not just frustrating but often devastating. They care, and they respond with fast on-demand service. Let Able Restoration make your home dry again.

Finding the Right Web Hosting Company

As I move forward with launching a potential new website that would allow me to offer memorabilia for sale, one of my key resources is Web Hosting Geeks. I've always liked this site because it's like one-stop shopping for a hosting domain. These days there are numerous companies out there, but when shopping for a hosting company, you have peruse sites cautiously. They aren't all the same.

One of the things I love about Web Hosting Geeks is that they provide all kinds of information about web hosting businesses. A first glance gives the consumer a rank and a quick summary of each company, from 'cheap hosting' to 'editor's choice'. At yet another glance, you can see what kind of space the company offers, the traffic allowed, and the cost, as well as bonus features. For more detail, shoppers can read reviews of sites they are interested in.

All of this is free at Web Hosting Geeks. As an 'on a budget' webmaster, being able to compare websites on an independent site is extremely helpful. It gives me some good starting information that ultimately saves me time in my web hosting company shopping. I've visited this site many times to learn about companies and definitely recommend it to others in the market for a hosting company.

The Time of My Life

Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi wrote their story in the book, The Time of My Life, and it's now available for sale. It's also available as an audiobook, read by Patrick himself, and as an e-book on Amazon Kindle.

For a look at the book and what it's all about, click here.

Beach Bike Mania

One of the best parts of enjoying the summer is riding along with a beach cruiser bike. It's healthy and it's fun. Picture yourself cruising along, the breeze rubbing against your body as the sun beams down. It's a great concept. All you need is the right beach bike.

Now don't confuse beach bikes with complicated street bikes. These usually have one speed and a coaster foot brake. There's nothing difficult about riding one of these.

You can find chopper style bicycles to suit your fancy or any kind of beach bike for a woman, man, or child. Accessories are available, too.

Find yourself a beach bike and have some healthy fun from now on!

Bikers, Check it Out

CruiserCustomizing.com is a must-visit for those of us who own motorcycles. They have an inventory of over 30,000 parts and accessories, and the best part is that these products are reasonably priced, making them affordable even in this difficult economy.

This site has all kinds of locks and alarms, which is so important today, along with sportbike tires, luggage racks, performance parts, tools, and so much more. You can even sign up to receive weekly deals, delivered right to your inbox, and what I really value is that they are a BBB accredited business, so you know you're dealing with an honest company. That works for me.

Patrick Swayze Pancrease Cancer Research Fund

News from Lisa Niemi Swayze about a new fund in her late husband's name for Pancreatic Cancer Research. This is the post from the official fan club's website:

Sunday 20th September 2009

Patrick's wife Lisa has contacted us with news of a Research Fund in Patrick's name. Here is Lisa's message:

" Stanford University is coalescing existing research activities on pancreas cancer to form a Pancreas Cancer Center. This center will expedite application of emerging technologies and the development of molecular targeted therapies all focused on pancreas cancer. Of course, our wonderful Dr. George Fisher is involved with all this and setting up this fund in Patrick's name.

Checks should be made out to:
"Patrick Swayze Pancreas Cancer Research Fund"
& sent to:
Stanford Cancer Center
875 Blake Wilbur Dr.
Palo Alto CA 94304."

Patrick Swayze, Gone from the Earth but Living in Heaven

Patrick Swayze died today, and my heart is deeply saddened. I've been a huge fan of the man's since 1993 when I gravitated towards him after the death of my father. For the last two years, Patrick has been battling Pancreatic Cancer. He beat many odds by going on after his diagnosis to complete one season of The Beast on A&E and to still be here, almost two full years later.

I was fortunate to meet Patrick a few times. I can feel his arms around me in a tender hug, and the touch of his lips in a fan-friendly kiss. I can see his inviting smile and hear his hearty laugh. I see him pulling up his pants leg to show off a scar from when he almost died filming Letters From a Killer, and I feel his happiness at having completed a multi-decades project of Without a Word, filmed as One Last Dance.

His wife, Lisa, is an equal joy, and I know she is in heartache right now, having lost her soulmate in life. However, in a bit of Ghost-philosophy, I can't imagine Patrick ever leaving her side. He'll be her forever, and in his own way, with all of us who loved and treasured him.

He was a wonderful man, kind and compassionate. He wasn't perfect; he was a human being, but he tried to be his best and he cared about this planet.

Please pause and take a moment to remember Patrick and pray for Lisa and the rest of his family, that they can find peace in his mortal loss.

As a request, if you have articles and reports that you see in your local newspaper or in any papers or magazines tomorrow and in the future, I would appreciate receiving them. You can provide feedback here and I can send my address.

You are missed, Patrick, but now you're free of pain and you're with your beloved father again, and your dear sister. I take solace that and in knowing that you are watching over Lisa even as you left the Earth. Take care and pave the road for us all in Heaven.

Some Gaming Advice

There is a wonderful way to learn about and share your love of gaming, and that's by becoming a member of a forum. Forums are really super. I love them and use them daily. For one thing, it's a way of getting to know other people on the internet with similar interests. You'd be surprised at how many others are out there, wanting to share their love of gaming while communicating with friends.

Another benefit of a gaming forum is that you can ask questions about games or issues you're having. Oftentimes, a forum will get you the answer you need much quicker than using a support or help area of a website.

The Rugged Nerds forum has sections for PC gamers, Console gamers, and eSports. There are game specific forums for games like Starcraft 2 and World of Warcraft. Take a look and join in the conversation.

Let's Roll

Today is September 11, better known as 9/11, a day that will live in infamy, just as much as December 7, 1941 has for decades. Once again, our nation mourns and remembers the terrorist attack that occurred in 2001. As I watch the re-airing of the event over on MSNBC, I realize how much easier it is for me to catch the details. When it happened, I could never make out the people who jumped from the World Trade Centers. Now, their falling bodies are pretty easy for me to spot. It's just all so tragic.

I like to focus on the brave people on Flight 93, real heroes who represent the heart and soul of America. I still feel like they don't really get their due. They saved this nation; I believe that.

For all of them, and those who did die in New York City eight years ago, I hope we all take a moment to remember their lives, and I hope that we can celebrate those lives for the good that they were and not just for the way they died.

As those aboard Flight 93 said, Let's Roll!

What a Week

This has been a crazy week. I don't think I've been so tuned in to the news, online and on-air, in a very long time.

There was the death of Senator Ted Kennedy, ending an era that won't ever be repeated. I watched the wake last night, and I just laughed and laughed at the stories. Then today was the funeral, and again, there were wonderful stories. The only thing that bothers me are the CNN reporters practically chastising President Obama for not making his eulogy a rallying cry for health reform. It's a funeral, people, get a grip.

I loved that Joan Kennedy was in attendance, as were several past Presidents -- Clinton, Bush, and Carter. All of them seated right there with the Obamas.

The one thing I really came away with from the wake and funeral is that the belief that you can do anything is the strongest ally you can have in achieving your goals. Story after story was told of Ted telling his children, nephews, and nieces about how they needed to believe in themselves and then just try their best. That's a legacy passed on from Joseph Kennedy to his children, and now the next generation has to take hold of it and move forward.

I've spent the last two days watching so much of the Jaycee Lee Dugard story. It's so hard to think that this 11 year old kidnapped girl was brought to a backyard and kept there for 18 years, where she was raped and mothered two children. From what her stepfather has said, Jaycee is a victim of Stockholm Syndrome, meaning she feels a bond with her captors. Now she has guilt about that. Jaycee and her children, who have no clue what a normal life is, will need a lot of therapy, love, and understanding for a very long time. Their transition will no doubt be difficult, but I hope Jaycee realizes how many people have never forgotten her.

As for the police, I applaud Sheriff Rupf who has admitted and apologized that his team dropped the ball back in November 2006. They responded to a 911 phone call but didn't do a background check. He has stepped forward to say they made a mistake, and I appreciate him owning up to their faux pas. However, the man in charge of the Corrections Department, the ones who have had the kidnappers as their parolee was full of excuses. He accepted no blame, no fault, no remorse, no nothing that his parole officers had failed to unearth Jaycee's presence at the home. He needs to be fired. He's just trying to cover his tail, and if he doesn't think he should at least acknowledge their lack of depth, then he's the wrong man for the job.

Then finally last night the Discovery lifted off after several delays during the week. It was a perfect blastoff with no problems whatsoever. It was at night, and it was beautiful. The shuttle program is approaching its end, but I really hope that the next phase does happen and that we return to the moon. There's so much more to be done.

Space exploration is intriguing and fascinating. I felt a strange extra connection to it last night, since I was so in Kennedy mode. After all, it was President John F. Kennedy who issued the mandate for the United States to reach unheard of heights in the space program.

Lastly, yesterday the Los Angeles coroner proclaimed the death of pop icon Michael Jackson a homicide, further clearing the way for charges to be filed against the doctor who gave him the drugs the day he died. I'm all for it. These doctors need to be stopped. This so-called physician gave the last drug to Jackson simply because Jackson kept demanding it. In other words, instead of following his medical common sense, the man was only concerned for his financial well being. He didn't want to be canned, so he gave Jackson a drug he knew he shouldn't have. This man needs to go to jail. He committed a murder, and he knew it.

What a week. So much news and so many emotions.

Miracles Do Happen - Jaycee's Alive

Hope fills the heart everywhere of parents and loved ones who have children missing, be it kidnapping or other event. In 1991, Jaycee Dugard was kidnapped in front of her step-father. Today, it was confirmed that Jaycee, now 29, is alive. We don't have a lot of details yet, except that her kidnappers, including a registered sex offender, have been arrested for kidnapping, rape, and other charges. Jaycee has two children, apparently from the kidnapper. No time, she's lived a nightmare, but Jaycee is alive. 18 years later, and a mother has been reunited with her daughter. Welcome home, Jaycee!

Rest in Peace, Ted

It just hit the news that Senator Ted Kennedy has died. Kennedy had a long career, a respectable one in politics that included a controversial run for President many years ago. I remember it well. Ted wasn't my favorite Kennedy. While I was always totally sold on his brothers John and Robert, I was less sold on him, but he was a Kennedy, and he had their drive and the same heritage. He's the only male Kennedy to make it through a long life. In that sense, this is the end of an era.

Once upon a time, there existed Camelot. It was shot down in 1963 and murdered in 1968. What was left, the remnants of that dream, has succumbed now to disease. Those big lights will never shine again in Washington D.C.

Rest in peace, Ted, and say 'hi' to Jack and Bobby.

Bling a Ling!

Hip Hop is a craze that has taken the world stage with a vengeance. It began as a dance and now is a way of life that includes the fashion industry and decorative jewelry. Bling Bling is a style that makes a 'watch me' statement. Check out Hip Hop Bling, a wholesale jeweler with over a decade of experience in this unique line. They don't just sell the styles, they help to set the trends!

A Financial Option

No one really likes to talk about their finances, especially if their situation is poor. I know because I've been there. Sometimes it gets so bad that the only option is bankruptcy. That makes the process of securing credit quite difficult. One of the best ways of getting back on track is to obtain a prepaid card from a company like NetSpend.

Getting a Prepaid Credit Card or debit card lets you make purchases, secure travel reservations, and shop online without having to worry about your credit history. It's even a great way to control your spending, even if you aren't recovering from a financial crisis. Simply load the card with the amount you desire and let it be your budget guide.

Prepaid cards are certainly an option to be considered.

Elvis - Just a Moment to Remember

Wow, it's been another year without the late, great Elvis Presley. 32 years is a long, long time, but I love he lives on in his movies and music. I have Blue Hawaii on now as part of TCM's all-day tribute. What a wonderful, innocent way to remember the true King of Rock and Roll!

North Highlands Auto Repair 916-332-6995

Sooner or later, it happens to all of us. Our cars won't start, or, oops, we lock ourselves out. When that times come, consider phoning T-Rex Towing & Auto Repair. They service North Highlands, Sacramento, Roseville, Lincoln, Antelope, Natomas, Citrus Heights and other surrounding areas. If you need a simple jump start, a tire change, or a tow, North Highlands Auto Repair can get you back on the road. They're looking for your business.

This is a paid sponsored post by this company.

Animal Love

As a devoted animal lover, I always pay attention to animal groups and websites that I discover or am referred to by other sites and friends. I'm a stanch supporter of good animal causes, including animal rights and animal care. After all, I've always had dogs. I consider them my babies. Currently, I have two young dogs, and they are my best joys, bringing me smiles and lots and lots of unconditional love.

A while back, I found a website devoted to the American Animal Care Center Fremont which serves Alameda and Contra Costa counties in Northern California. Currently, they are offering three different coupons which are pretty valuable to those in need. You can get $20 off pet vaccinations, a free initial examination, or a free rabies vaccination with a regular priced exam. You can make an appointment or order prescription refills online, which is so convenient. Their website is loaded with information about them and pets.

The American Animal Care Center has been named the 2009 Small Business of the Year by California Assembly Majority Leader Alberto Torrico.

Click here -- American Animal Care Center Flickr -- to see some great photos provided by this leading and respected organization. You'll smile, that's for sure.

This is the kind of place an animal lover loves to see.

Finding Diesel Parts

Shopping online is often more economical than shopping at your local stores. Not only are the prices generally lower, but you can obtain hard to find products as well. Customer oriented, Diesel Parts Pro has products for a variety of vehicles, including Audi, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, and Volvo.

If you're looking for diesel parts, including reliable under warranty replacements for factory-fitted parts, this is the place to go.

Diesel Parts Pro will answer your questions and assist you with your needs with products such as turbochargers, diesel glow plugs, diesel injectors, and fuel pumps. They are eager to help you find the aftermarket parts that you need.

A Crazy Day - Clinton and Prisoners

Okay, this is a crazy news day. First came the news that President Bill Clinton went to North Korea and secured the release of the two women, including Lisa Ling, being held there. This was probably already a done deal. Someone described it as a photo op for North Korea, and they are probably right. Still, the important thing is that the women are being pardoned and released.

Now comes word that a federal judicial panel has ordered California to reduce its prisoner count by 44,000 over two years because it's "the only way to bring the system's medical care up to adequate standards." Okay, so, they want to put dangerous criminals out on the street because of this reported medical neglect? I'm sorry, but I don't care.

Please don't get me wrong. I'm all for prisoners having adequate care, but I am NOT for releasing 44,000 dangerous lawbreakers simply because there's a problem in the system.

The governor is appealing the decision to the Supreme Court. Let's hope they have more sense.

The Acai Berry Rage

Losing weight is a difficult thing, and the market today contains all kinds of diet options. One of the biggest rages out there today is Acai Berry, a product Oprah Winfrey backs. You can get the acai berry products at this website.

Odds and Ends from Me

Hi Everyone!

It's been a while since I've done a check in but there's been a lot happening. With my financial situation, I've just been struggling so much, but things are now on the upswing. A huge weight has been lifted from me and I can breathe again. My disability finally came through so very soon I won't have to wake up with all that stress. The bills will be paid. What a relief!

Cassie's been just fine since those scary seizures a while back. I'm so grateful for that. It's so hard to watch her when that happens. I'm always on the smell out for skunks because it's highly possible they are the source of the seizures. My dogs are my joys, and they keep me smiling.

I'm watching So You Think You Can Dance and they've been doing some of the past routines from past seasons. I've been wondering why the Mercy number with the door that Twitch and Lacey did hadn't been featured yet. They did the routine tonight, only Katie performed it instead of Lacey. I'm curious why Lacey didn't perform. It has nothing to do with Dancing with the Stars because Chelsea's been on at least twice doing routines and she's also part of the DWTS family.

Please remember to use the links to Amazon.com on the right hand side of this blog. No matter what you're buying, if you start by using that link, I'll benefit from it. Even with the disability coming through, I still need to earn some money. Over on Review Stream, I'm now one of their featured authors so it's much easier to find my reviews there now, if you're interested. You can click on my name there, read my profile, and then click on the link to my reviews. It's really easy now.

I'm off to start work on a fan fic story. I can't wait to immerse myself back into my universe. It's so therapeutic, and I just treasure everyone associated with it.

One more thing. Please don't support tabloid trash. When you buy an issue or read a headline and pass that untruth on, you are supporting hurtful nonsense. People like Patrick Swayze have to deal with that nonsense when they should be focused on their health and getting well. They have families, and those family members have to endure this craziness. Please don't be a part of hurting the Swayzes or any other celebrity. Yes they are in public domain, but they are also human beings.

Have a great day!

Now Bookmarked on My Computer

Admittedly, I haven't heard about this music and download search engine until this evening, but I just now tried it out and am now totally sold on it. I'm listening to an mp3 that I've been wanting for over a year but could never find available for free online anywhere. It took me about 10 seconds to find it on this site. I'm so very excited to finally have it on my computer.

Rapidshare Search Engine merges the rapidshare file download application with the rapid4me search engine. It's growing in rapid fire leaps and bounds with an increased numbers of users. They can add one more to that number. I'm sold!

Sprucing Up Your Presentations

Businesses, professional organizations, and entrepreneurs are just a few entities that can take advantage of this awesome offer to purchase personalized pocket folders. These folders can be ordered in several different sizes, in many different colors, and in various quantities. In fact, one of the things that makes this offer unique is that the minimum order is only 100 versus the 250 that other companies require.

Using personalized pocket folders is a snappy way of presenting your company's or organization's information to potential consumers. They can be used for special presentations as well. To be honest, there's no end to the ways that these folders can be used.

Custom Presentation Folders can include your own logo imprinted on the folders via a custom hot stamp die. That will impress customers or visiting dignitaries. It's a great way to spruce up any project plan or presentation.

Searching for Home

If you live in the Wisconsin area, or are looking to relocate to that region, you'll want to check out this website where you can get information on rental properties. Rental properties are ideal for those not currently in a situation where they afford to buy a house. They are also great options if you aren't sure where you want to live permanently. Perhaps you know you want to live in Wisconsin, but aren't totally sure where. Utilizing a rental property, perhaps Apartments in Platteville, allows you to check out this area and ensure it fits your needs before buying a home.

Some people might want a rental property because they have temporary business in Wisconsin. They might want to check out Apartments in Madison versus staying in a hotel for months on end.

Whatever your reason, you can review Apartments in Wisconsin that are of interest to you at this website. It's quick and easy to select the rental type you want and the low and maximum amount of rent you want to pay. If you register, the search engine will take you to a listing of sites with all the details about the rental properties that match your criteria. Even if you don't register, you can still see the various sites available to get an idea of what is there. It's an easy way to shop for a place to stay.

Vacation Rental Information

When you're looking for the perfect getaway or retreat, now you can rely on VacationRental.org to make sure you get exactly what you want. This is an online, luxury vacation rental registry. You might also want to check out the web directory at vrwd.com.

Optimizing Business

Providing a superior data software program for the collection and reporting of information relating to waste management is the focus of Wastedge.com. This online application helps to optimize the user's workforce, resulting in a more efficient service that can be offered to their customers. Click on this link -- Skip Bin Software -- to find out more information and take advantage of a free trial. It's definitely worth a look.

Keeping Fit

So many people today are into muscle building that sometimes it's hard to know the best way to get into that kind of shape. I've been on several forums with active bodybuilders and the like, and there are always a lot of questions about what kind of vitamins to take, what are the best fat burners, and even how to make sure they get the correct amount of protein to further their goals and keep their bodies healthy.

MuscleTech Reviews is a good, introductory site that provides a lot of information on muscle builders, fat burners, stacks, and more. What I like is that they thoroughly explain these different categories and then expound on it supplement suggestions that are appropriate to help with those areas.

If you're looking for information on this system for keeping your body fit, check out MuscleTech Reviews.

A Good Deal

When you need parts for your steering rack and steering box, head on over to Car Steering Wholesale where you can find the lowest prices on the parts you need. Not only that, but shipping is free on all orders, and that's a good deal.

The racks and boxes are ones that dealerships once could only offer. Now, though, you can parts like a bmw steering rack sent to you directly, and all parts come with a warranty. Their inventory of thousands are ready to ship, and if you need support, you can get it toll free. That's a good deal, too!

When Trouble Happens

When trouble happens, you need to make sure you get the right kind of help, especially when the subject is the law. These days the legal system is extremely complicated. It's nearly impossible for someone outside of the legal structure to really know how to deal with problems that might occur, some of which could have serious consequences if not handled correctly.

That's why North Carolinans should consider contacting The Law Offices of William Fay with questions and for assistance with traffic law, driving under the influence law, and criminal law. This drunk driving attorney Raleigh, NC can help you to understand your rights.

Even if your problem is less serious, Speeding Tickets Raleigh, NC, for example, this firm can answer your questions and present you with your legal options. You just don't want to take chances. Let the experts help.

This is especially true for criminal defense Raleigh. You need to know what you're facing so you can make the best possible legal decisions. The Law Offices of William Fay can help with that.

Consultations are free by calling their number or filling out the form on the website. If you've got legal issues ahead of you, you can't afford not to ask for a consultation.

Stylish and Modern

If it's time for a re-do of your bedroom and you really want something new and stylish, ERoomService has a variety of contemporary bedroom sets and furniture, all from top notch Italian and European designers. These sleek designs are stunning in their unique looks.

This modern bedroom furniture is worthy of being in any home decor magazine. The innovative designs are made with quality craftsmanship. You'll be the talk of your social group when you own one of these pieces.

In today's world, people love the fine lines of style, and this furniture certainly falls into that quality. Take a look and see which sets call out to you.

Go with CHIEF

Since 1977, CHIEF has offered competitive pricing, quick delivery, and terrific customer service for fire department, EMS, law enforcement, and surveyor equipment and apparel. Their website is consumer friendly and orders can be placed online, over the phone, by mail, or by fax. The choice is yours. Departments and agencies are given one contact person to deal with it all the time. This makes inquiries and handling orders even easier as you develop a rapport with your personal customer service representative.

When ordering any of their 40,000 superb products, including florida police gear, delivery is fast and available in a variety ways designed to meet your schedule and budgeting constraints.

Check CHIEF out today.

Take Me Away

After a long day at work or a stressful day dealing with obligations and chores, it feels so good to just kick back and relax. One of the ways I've always thought was just a super way of reinvigorating myself for the evening was to get into a hot tub. It's peaceful, soothing, and just feels great.

What is wonderful about hot tubs and spas is that you can enjoy them alone, with your significant other, or with friends. They come in various sizes, so it's totally up to you what style to get and how many people will be able to fill it at one time. When not in use, good hot spa covers are important to protect the spas so that they're ready to go when you are.

Personally, I prefer to just settle in on my own and let the vibrations of the water take me away to a land of peace and serenity. It's so nice.

Spruce Up and Clean Up

Now is a great time to spruce up your home, inside and outside, and clean up with big savings on all kinds of furniture. Whether you need to replace old, scratched, nicked, cracked, or otherwise well-used and well-lived in, and on, furniture or you just want to change out your decor with something more trendy or stylish, now's a great time to shop.

Office furniture is among the inventory available. I love writing tables and have since I was a little girl and saw my aunt's antique secretary, a cute piece of furniture to store all her stationary and writing tools and which had a pull down top that served as a writing table. It's adorable, and I love using it now since it's been passed down to me. While perusing this website's collection, I found some other really neat pieces, including the Mount Olympus Collection Table with Hutch. It's decoratative and useful, and it has storage space for pens, stamps, letters, and whatever else you might want to keep there.

Outdoor furniture is also part of the sizzling summer sale that is going on right now at the website. Teak wood, wicker, and metal furniture for dining, seating, and lounging are available, as well as a variety of accent pieces, stools, and fire pits. Whatever you need, you can find here.

Bathroom Vanities, bedding, entertainment centers, youth furniture, and much more are ripe for the picking.

Spruce up your home today and click on the links to really clean up and save on pricing. Many pieces include free shipping, and if you need planning help, there is an online room planning tool. Click on over now and save.

Feels So Good

I work so much at my computer that it's not uncommon for my back to begin aching. Sometimes my legs get tired of sitting, too. I just end up feeling uncomfortable, and that's when the fidgeting starts. After awhile, I have to get up and go relax elsewhere for a while, like sitting in a recliner or lying down on the bed. That may give me a change of pace, but it's not doing anything to really make me feel better. If I want that, I have to pull out one of my massage systems.

A good massager device really feels great. It wakes up my muscles in a good way, and it soothes my aching back. The vibrations ease the aches and it all just makes me feel better. However, while I have a couple of different systems for massages, what I hate about them is that I have to pull them out of the closet, set them up, and then plug them him. For a person who loves convenience, that's a lot of extra steps that I'd rather pass on, especially when I have to undo it all when I'm done using the device. Plus, these devices only work in a piecemeal fashion. It works on a portion of my body, and that's it.

Now there's a better way to get those get vibrations rolling and that's with Human Touch Massage Chairs. These industry-leading chairs utilize expert advice from leading massage therapists, chiropractors, and physicians to replicate the human touch, giving chair users an incredible feeling of having an actual massage. The rolling and kneading techniques feel so good. This device actually emulates a full body massage, all the way along your body. There's nothing piecemeal about it at all.

The Human Touch Massage Chairs really bring a new dimension to comfort. Read more about these feel-good chairs at their website today.

Go With Coupons

In this economy, we need all the help we can get to save money. I know I do, and that's why whenever I shop online, I go in search of coupons for whatever businesses I'm ordering from. It's amazing how many deals are out there that we don't know about, and that's why Go Go Shopper exists, to provide a central place where thousands of coupons are kept for us to find whenever we need them.

Go Go Shopper has coupons for department store websites like J.C. Penney, Macys, and Sears. There are deals for supermarts and drugstores like Wal-Mart, Target, Drugstore.com, and Kohls. No stores or online retailers are precluded from being part of their database of savings.

HomeDecorators coupons are available, as are Sephora, New Egg, and Eddie Bauer. All you have to do is drop by the website and search by retailer or store type. You're sure to find coupon codes that will save you lots of money in the future. They even have them for Amazon.com.

Go Go Shopper is a gigantic resource of coupons and coupon codes that every person in this strange economy needs to take advantage of whenever they shop. I have in the past, and I plan to do so again in the future.

A Piece of Luxury

Rolex watches have long been the standard of sophistication and style. I loved it when I was given my first Rolex as a young girl. I was on top of the world. It was a great watch that I treasured as I grew up. Regardless of your age or gender, there's a Rolex watch out there that will make you proud and put a smile on your face.

There's a great website at www.bestoftime.com that is home to a terrific selection of these fine watches. They're offered at huge discount pricing, something which is possible because Best of Time is an independent dealer of new and pre-owned Rolex watches and offer their products with a very low markup.

Best of Time, also known as Alex Jewelry, is a reputable dealer, as proven by their membership in the Better Business Bureau. In fact, they are an official BBB accredited business, holding a stellar A+ rating. That's the most any company can achieve.

Take some time to peruse Best of Time's inventory of Rolex luxury watches and do some comparison shopping to prove to yourself that they have the lowest prices possible. Their entire inventory is one hundred percent genuine certified and authentic. They come with a three-year warranty and shipping is free via FedEx. That's a good deal!

Raising money for breast cancer research

Odds are that you know someone who has died from or is suffering from breast cancer. The dangerous cancer has no boundaries and infests family members, friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. Maybe you yourself are dealing with breast cancer. While progress has been made, it's time to get beyond this horrid killer and rid the world of breast cancer for good. One positive way to do that is to fund research that can help medical researchers understand breast cancer more thoroughly and to ultimately come up with better treatments and, one day, the cure.

One way to help fund this much-needed research is to raise money through the Pink Ribbon Gumballs Bubble Up program. Are you the owner of a salon, spa, or other female-oriented business? Do you have a connection to a pizza place, dance studio, or youth oriented gathering spot? If so, consider doing your part by placing a gumball vending machine in one of these places. Maybe you even want to get one for your home and make your gumballs available to your neighborhood. It could be the center of any party on the block.

What easier way is there for individuals and businesses to help in raising money for breast cancer research? The proceeds all go to a great cause, and it's easy to do and maintain. Bubble up with pink gumballs today!

The Sunglasses Athletes Adore

Tifosi Glasses is the place to go for quality sunglasses that athletes adore. These products are made to withstand and endure the abuse that being an athlete brings on them. No matter how much we sweat or move, these sunglasses will last. Even if we drop them, they'll still survive. They are the sunglasses of the athlete, and they come with a hundred percent low price guarantee.

Drop by tifosi glasses and look at all the great sunglasses they have to offer. They come in a variety of lens types, and there's no shipping charge for orders of $75 or more.

Let the athlete in you celebrate victory in glasses that will endure anything you can put it though. Shop Tifosi Glasses today!