May 31, 2005
Product Review: Traderspoint Creamery Yogurt
One of the things that Europe and Scandinavia do very well, IMO, is yogurt. When I was first introduced to it in Denmark at age 15, all my experience had been with the drek marketed here. I ate out of politeness at first, then to the laughter of my hosts as I exclaimed how good it was and dug in for real. Bryer's is about the best of the mass-produced, but it does not come close in my book. Today, however, I found Traderspoint Creamery products and tried their yogurt. This stuff is good. It is not filled with gelatin and junk, has a great taste, and a richness of texture and flavor that beats any of the mass-market stuff out there. If you like yogurt and can get some of this (seems to be a semi-small operation), try it.
LW
An Interesting Time
The work on the Lair proceeds, but there have been a few hiccups that are making me growl a bit. The first was a gamble on my part that I could sand the floors with just an orbital sander, and not a belt. Bad bet, which means a third again the cost but the good news is that the oak under the living room carpet is beautiful -- with the stain and such off.
Making it a very interesting time was discovering about 0500 Saturday morning that I had apparently gotten food poisoning somewhere in the preceding couple of days. Removing carpet, padding, staples,sanding and other work was stop and go, to put it mildly. I had a bit of help from a neighbor on Saturday with staple and tack strip removal, thank goodness. Sunday saw me feeling a lot better, even when I realized that a belt sander was needed. Monday, however, saw problems return with a vengeance almost before I finished eating breakfast. The yard and back pasture yard had to be mowed, however, so I did it. Not fun, but what had to be done was done. The house yard takes somewhere between a half hour and an hour, and the back between one to two hours to mow. Getting better, finding smarter ways, but doing so sick and in the hot sun was interesting. That which could wait, did. Even some that really shouldn't wait, did.
Monday afternoon found me in bed, running a fever, and not happy at being a true redneck. The sunburn, caused by feeling so bad and out of it that I forgot to put on my sunscreen, was minor compared to the rest. Today included a visit to the doctor, and some help. Not with the obvious, for one of the best things to do in such a case is let your body get stuff out, but with an antibiotic. Today has also included naps, and I feel another one coming on.
So, I am feeling better though running behind on things. I wish a couple more people understood that it is not the nice-to-do's I am sweating right now, but the have-to-do's. The floors have to be finished, pref. by this weekend. The remaining trim work in the bedroom, living room, dining room, and solarium have to be done now if they are to be done at all -- and that is a have to do in my book. Aside from some work in the kitchen, almost everything else is a nice-to-do and can and will be done in time. Quite frankly, I am about ready to smack the next person who complacently tells me that it can all wait...
Further good news comes in that I found someone who took all the carpet and padding. I put them out as a mock yard sale, and ended up agreeing to let them have it for free. Yep, they had to bargain real hard on that one...
Oh, I also got up a mailbox during all this as well. And tilled and planted a garden. Where once was lawn is now a 15x15 plot filled with herbs, tomato, eggplant, peppers, and more. Plastic chicken wire is up to discourage the bunnies too... Couple of other things got done, but those are the major.
Sorry to bore you, but this is about all (aside from eating yogurt) that I feel up to right now.
LW
Robby Gordon: No Brains, No Class, No...
Courtesy of Acidman, I found this post at Suburban Blight on Robby Gordon. On this one, I think both Kelley and Rob say it all so well. As for me, all I will add is that Danica has a big pair of brass ones, and Robby none a'tall.
LW
How Not To Spend Memorial Day
101 is great if you are Airborne, lousy if it is your temperature
Food should induce hunger, not other reactions
More later
LW
On The Mend...
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 124
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Unlike Nightline, I don't intend to ride this into the ground as they did the Iran hostage crisis. Nor do I see it as a way to show how serious my journalism is, or is not. What I do see is a clear need for this tape to be released, though I doubt it ever will, especially in light of the slanderous remarks by Linda Foley. This tape, and the issue around it, was not dealt with fully and completely, otherwise we would not have the base lie being floated yet again.
Today is the last day I will run this on a regular basis. The point is made, and if I thought it would do any good at all, I would continue to run it. I don't think it will do any good, for in the absence of strong demands from many more than me, the tape will indeed go into the memory hole so many in the Old Media so fervently wish it would hurry up and disappear into.
Nuff said. I will run the "regular" blurb below, and it may pop up from time to time just as an update and a reminder of the limits of power.
Today marks the 120th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Ever wonder why they still don't want you to see the tape and would love for it to be forgotten?
May 30, 2005
Memorial Day
Today we remember those who have fought over the years so that we are free to celebrate this day. Those who by their service, and even by their deaths, make possible posts such as these; who have made possible the debates/hystrionics that are the hallmark of the modern Congress; who have allowed those who scream about the jackboot of oppression and modern Nazi's to do so without discovering the real meaning of same; and, who have made it possible for freedom's sweet ring to spread to the dark places of the world. Where once there was darkness, today there is light where there was none and the gleaming of a new and better dawn in so many more.
The price they have paid has been of blood, toil, tears, and sweat. It may simply have been serving their time, or, it may well have been a far greater sacrifice. Read this moving post to get some idea of the ultimate price, and its aftermath.
Take the time to thank them all. There are less than 30 veterans of WWI left, and the number of WWII veterans dwindles each day. Acidman notes the passing of Eddie Albert. I wonder how many people know he served in WWII, and even earned the Bronze Star for rescuing wounded Marines at Tarawa? Korea and Vietnam vets dwindle too... Take the time today, and every day, to thank a vet because without them, there would be no vestige of freedom left this day.
Thank them. Then help spread the light of freedom around the world, to honor them for their service and to help do yours.
LW
May 29, 2005
May 28, 2005
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom and more at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires (Ironbear apparently still in Snowbear's freezer pigging out on frozen custard), and the Saturday question of the day at Tammi's World. Enjoy your day.
Memorial Day: Doing Good
This Memorial Day Weekend, take the time to do some good for the people who have fought, and are fighting, so that you can have this holiday weekend.
As for me, if you scroll down on the right you will find a graphic for Soldier's Angels. I can't say enough good about that organization and the wonderful people within it. Blackfive has a good list of ways to help as well.
Take the time. Help them out, and if you know a veteran thank them for their service.
LW
Food For Thought: Appearances
Yesterday, I had to attend a meeting and was amazed at the smell in and around the building where it was held. It took a bit to realize that the beautiful flowering trees nearby were the source of the sewer-like smell.
Appearance is only part of a package. How often have fair looks deceived? Not just with people, but with everything from structures to candy? How often has each of us been taken in by how something looked, only to find that what was inside left much to be desired?
LW
thankful that none of the sewer trees are planted at his place...
May 27, 2005
Friday Wolf Blogging
While I will be working this weekend to sand and refinish floors, painting walls, and more, others will be doing different things. This looks particularly inviting to me right now...
Yea verily, my joints and I could probably get into that...
Enjoy your weekend.
LW
Tagged By Blackfive
At first I thought this was from Mr. S, rather than Blackfive, but then I saw why he did it and agreed. So, without further ado...
1) Total number of films I own on DVD/video:
More than 100. The box of videos and related items is still in storage in Alabama for a few more weeks, but since I have more than 40 DVDs/videos here, and I think I remember a book box of tapes and such...
2) The last film I bought:
I honestly don't remember, but suspect it was either The Longest Day or Secretary. Haven't bought much as the DVD players are still down in Alabama (not supposed to be, long story). I do plan on buying Team America soon though
3) The last film I watched:
I hate to admit it, but I can't remember. A group gets together on Sunday evenings to watch a movie, but I haven't been in a few weeks and one of the last things we did was a Lost marathon
4) Five films that I watch a lot or that mean a lot to me (in no
particular order):
The Longest Day At least every couple of years, if not every year, as a reminder
Princess Bride What can I say, I love it
LOTR Any, all
Animal House Still glad I won as D-Day at Blackfive's a while back...
Big Jake Not hardly...
5) Tag 5 people and have them put this in their journal:
Nope, not going to pass this along, at least for now. Otherwise, Joe Katzman, Val, Momma Bear, Stan, and Kevin would be in trouble...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 120
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 120th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Ever wonder why they still don't want you to see the tape and would love for it to be forgotten?
May 26, 2005
Couple Of Quick...
Forgot to mention that I seem to have picked up some rabbits with the purchase of the new lair. At least one is very unafraid of me, at least until I asked it if it wanted to be fox/Basil food, then it did a very good imitation of the Batmobile doing an emergency takeoff. Almost like it understood me...
Also, I do bring laughter into the lives of others. Thought not always as intended. I did five ceilings last night, then went out to dinner. The waitress was bubbly and had a smile on her face anytime she came near me. When I got home, I found that I had somehow given myself a Pepe LePew streak of white right down the center of my hair. Ah well, it brought a smile to others...
LW
If You Love Cats
Or have no sense of humor, do NOT check out this post or this post and follow the links. You are warned.
LW
Slow(er) For A Few Days
Things progress, but between something at work and work on the lair, things may be slow. I am trying to finish up some critical painting at the new lair tonight so that I can re-do this weekend the wood floors I found under some carpeting. Problem is that I have managed to do something to my right elbow such that I have some mobility issues. Not fun, but the lair is shaping up. I do hope that my friends will stage an intervention if I ever start to do painting that requires two or more processes to do... Yes, I got fancy on some of the wall and trim painting, and am paying for it in more than one way. I also now sport a nice long scratch down most of a forearm courtesy of OSHA and ill-thought safety "features" on lawnmowers. Had to spend Tuesday evening mowing the half acre or so of lawn instead of painting and prep...
More soon.
LW
Warning Order: Media Slander
Enough is enough. The folks behind Easongate have come together again to tackle the problem of anti-military bias in the Old Media. Check it out, and I for one look forward to seeing their ops order. May they not let off too soon this time...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 119
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 119th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Ever wonder why they still don't want you to see the tape and would love for it to be forgotten?
May 25, 2005
An Open Letter To Pepsico and Indra
I meant to write about this last week, but was not able to do so. To call the remarks made by Indra Nooyi, President and CFO of Pepsico sophmoric is to praise them far too highly. They are arrogant, condescending, insulting, and intellectually vapid.
I am going to join Tammi in her boycott though I know it will have little impact. What matters is less the impact than in living up to what I feel is proper. Personally, if someone who bleeds Tropicana orange like Tammi is willing to do this, feels it must be done, then Pepsico has a real problem...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 118
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 118th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Ever wonder why they still don't want you to see the tape and would love for it to be forgotten?
May 24, 2005
Foley, And A Respectful Disagreement With Blackfive
As I mentioned earlier, there is yet again another major media player who is slandering the troops by claiming that journalists are being deliberately targeted and killed. Unlike Eason Jordan and CNN, there is a video of the event. An effort is already underway to spin/bury this, and it must not be allowed to stand. Linda Foley must be held to account for her remarks: for if they are correct it is the story of the decade, and if not she needs to be held accountable for the slander she has made. To that end, proof must be demanded. In short, she needs to put up, or shut up.
In this post, Blackfive makes a very good point, but I am afraid that I must respectfully disagree with him. The Old Media is anti-military. I don't think it the conscious conspiracy of the few, but rather an unconscious conspiracy of the many. Having worked in and around the field, I have seen a mindset with many that soldiers can't be that bright, simply because if they were then they would not choose to be soldiers. Therefore, they must be ignorant, poor, and unable to get "real" jobs as the stereotypes (oft proclaimed by said media) go.
Most members of the media have no exposure to the military, nor are they interested in understanding it. I've talked on this before, and why I think the embeds were a great stroke on many levels, and I urge you read this post, this post, this post, and this series which starts here.
There is more in the archives, but these go to the heart of why I say the Old Media is anti-military: it is very biased and bigoted against those who serve because of a long and undeclared war against the military establishment, and a bigoted and unquestioned stereotype of those who serve. It is the biogotry of willful and deliberate ignorance.
Let's shine the spotlight not just on Foley and her despicable remarks, but also on two other things. First, the pervasive anti-troop and anti-military establishment bias within the Old Media that comes from not having knowledge of the subject. Second, let us take the time to renew the calls for releasing the Jordan tape, so that this rapacious meme can be countered both within the hallowed halls of journalism and with the world at large.
LW
Too True...
What Is Your Animal Personality?
brought to you by Quizilla
No, I did not cheat on this test.
This and the other two are fairly accurate in general terms though...
LW
I Am A Paladin
| Paladin You scored 62 Holy, 61 Tactful, 52 Natural, and 35 Arcane! |
| Hahah... I once heard you described as a paragon of chivalry and virtue, but just because you fight (hard) for a God doesn't mean you're virtuous in society's eyes. Especially because in this world as you could just as easily be an anti-paladin, so don't let it get to your head. That warning aside, you are pretty awesome... you are a knight in the Templar style. You are almost always found riding around on a glistening (or nightmarish, your choice) horse, with impeccibly shined armor sparkling in the ray of sunshine that God makes sure never leaves your side, with your sword making neatly coreographed swishing motions, and caught amongst a cloud of blood and bits of non-believers that splatters everything 10 yards around you save your armor and your achingly-white-toothed fanatic smile. Is there any creature of God more dangerous than the single-minded paladin riding around, smiting everything it sees?.... Thank God (most of) you are on our side. No, literally. |
 |
My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
|
| Link: The Which D & D Class am I Test written by effataigus on href='http://www.okcupid.com'>Ok Cupid |
Not saying a word...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 117
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 117th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Ever wonder why they don't want you to see the tape and would love for it to be forgotten?
May 23, 2005
Technical Difficulties Over?
The free wi-fi is back, at least for now. Every time we have a good thunderstorm, it goes down and guess what we have had lots of lately? More soon, ranging from Pepsico to another despicable Eason-Jordan-wannabe. And good news, too, on the new lair.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 116
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 116th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 21, 2005
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom and more at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires (Ironbear apparently still in Snowbear's freezer pigging out on frozen custard), and the Saturday question of the day at Tammi's World. Enjoy your day.
A Thought For Cuba Nostalgia
I realized a few days ago that I had some serious food for thought for this day. This could be, and should be, a much longer post pointing to the many links by Val and others on the true state of Cuba, but with the technical problems...
As I paint and work today on my new lair, I will take the time to remember those who can't paint, who can't fix up, and can't even keep their own homes lest they be given to someone the party favors. I can choose my colours, I can buy my supplies openly, and I can work hard and know that the results are mine. Here, the largest limitations I face are my finances and my skill. There, well...
So today I will count my blessings, and I will think of those who do not even have the freedom to do things for themselves, to better their homes, and I will wish for the day when they too can stand free.
Let Freedom Ring Around The World!
LW
Please Stand By
We are experiencing technical difficulties with the free wi-fi (and worth every penny it is) at the temporary lair and are not yet set up in the permanent lair. Am taking advantage of an opportunity to do a couple of quick posts, but have no idea when full power will be restored...
LW
May 20, 2005
Of Cuba And Picasso
In this post, I talk about a crush I had on a lovely Cubanita. In today's post, I will share a moment of embarassement, an "Emily" moment that forced me to go "Nevermind."
From about the second grade on, after meeting the Cubanita, my dislike of castro turned from a mere academic thing to something with passion. Yes, even then I had strong opinions and was passionate about them. Anything to do with castro was something that earned my ire.
One day in class, I guess it was about the fourth grade, we got a lecture on Picasso. Now we all mishear things, and a couple of the teachers had real interesting accents even for Middle Georgia. As Picasso was discussed, his work with cubism was brought up. Now, I probably just misheard it, but I could have sworn the teacher said "Cubanism" instead. The process was almost instantaneous, for I knew even then that a lot of people/pseudointellectuals just loved fidel. Cubism was heard as Cubanism and I thought he was not just another supporter of fidel, but one of the architects of all that was going on there. That he was in part responsible for my friend's father being in prison there.
It was years before I found out that I has misheard/it had been misspoken...
There is still no quicker way to earn my ire and contempt, however, than to profess your admiration, love, or support for Val's bitch fidel.
Wish I could be there my friend!
LW
Cuba Nostalgia: TODAY!
Well, what are you waiting for? Get on over/down/up to Miama and visit with Val, help with the blogging, and check things out. Cuba Nostalgia, the place to be this weekend. A free Cuba: The place for all Cubans to be, and the dream -- may it become reality soon.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 113
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 113th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 19, 2005
Ouch, Part II
At least it is not as bad as Sunday... I had the chance to put in several solid hours yesterday and took it. Net result is that the back hall and stairwell now have their first coat of primer, the living room ceiling got about two, the dining room ceiling got a coat of primer, the master bedroom and walk-in closet got first coat on walls and ceiling, and I started laying down the main colour (gold 3) in the solarium. I am not moving well this morning... Normally, I use an extension pole on walls and ceilings, but several of the spaces required doing it by hand -- this after doing all the prep work by hand. Am eager/anxious to see how the gold colour turned out, as I got to that late and had to quit painting because it had gotten too dark to see what I was doing. Plan for today is to go buy yet more paint (almost 10 gallons of primer so far) as I need more primer and some specialty primer for a couple of very old (I hope) water stains that have shown up. Goal for the weekend is to get the solarium, dining room, living room, and master bedroom done; and, to start priming the den and kitchen. Kitchen will be a bear as I need to take down some cabinets, move others up, re-arrange some appliances... And to fill the hot tub so I can soak my very sore self...
LW
Tomorrow: Cuba Nostalgia
If I could be there, I would. I will be there in spirit, and if you live in Florida or can get to Miami for the weekend, you should go and enjoy yourself.
Meanwhile, get on over to Val's and check things out. If you can do something to help with his part of Cuba Nostalgia, then please do it.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 112
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 112th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 18, 2005
Lair Update
Things go, and go fairly well overall. Didn't get to do quite as much as I wanted yesterday evening as a tree rat blew a transformer and took out power to several houses including mine. The living room took yet another coat of primer, as did the solarium. Good news is that they should be ready to paint this evening. Now to get all the rest of the walls primed and painted... Things may be a bit slow here for a while longer...
LW
Jihadweek, Follow-Up
Quick and dirty to follow-up on yesterday:
The continued blame the victim and insistence that full journalistic standards were followed lines continue to be reprehensible.
Why not do what they demand of others? Just as there was a full investigation of the so-called Segrena incident, or even Abu Ghraib itself, why not a full investigation here complete with sworn testimony and evidence? Sauce for the gander time, and much needed.
While I believe the author and those above bear moral and ethical responsibility for what happened, the real problem lies in those that would seize any pretext to engage in riot, murder, and more. Last time I checked, I didn't notice the Quakers sacking Pennsylvania because of an alleged desecration...
Finally, why is it that the Old Media is so darned sensitive to the feelings of Muslim extremists but not to almost any other faith, most especially Christians?
Just some quick thoughts that need to be out there.
LW
Two Days To Cuba Nostalgia
Get on over to Val's and check things out. If you can do something to help with his part of Cuba Nostalgia, then please do it.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 111
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 111th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Yes, this is getting old, but then again that is the point.
May 17, 2005
Carnival of the Recipes
Despite my best intentions, I did not get a recipe in nor have I linked until now to the Carnival at the Delightful and Delectable Boudicca's Voice. Lots of tasty stuff there. Nor was this the only Carnival she has hosted, so check out her rendition of the Karnival of the Kidz. Two carnivals in less than a week? She is a glutton for punishment, and a not-so-closet masochist to boot...
LW
Jihadweek
Others are covering the despicable story of newsweek quite well. No, I am not going to follow their "style" and all cap them; they deserve no caps. Among the bloggers, Baldilocks - as usual - does a great job including an honest assessment of media attitude towards those in the military. Acidman rips the disgrace billed as advocacy journalism, which is contradiction in terms. Mark Tapscott covers the JM101 and related errors. My own take on such starts with this post and runs on a bit longer, but the series could have been written expressly for this incident instead of what originally sparked it. Suffice it to say that right now I am ashamed at ever having been any part of the Old Media or to say that I was a "journalist." Alas, I was, and even was inducted into Kappa Tau Alpha for my academic work in journalism.
That background, including the academic, though, is why I want to discuss some things that I think are being missed in current discussions. Please be aware that I am suspending my normal rules of language, and plan to call them as I see them.
First, the defense of newsweek to blame the Pentagon and the military for the story is much more than mere bullshit. "Gee, if she hadn't been dressed so provocatively, I would never have raped her." Blaming the victim is exactly what they are doing here, and the quote is not mere hyperbole. Take their argument, break it/strip it down, and then parse it logically. Their defense and the quote above break down the same, and it is bullshit in both cases.
Second, I don't buy several statements that have come out of newsweek of late. The one most deserving of scorn is the quote attributed to Mark Whitaker that says "I suppose you could say we should have foreseen the consequences of the report, but we didn't". I call bullshit, for several reasons, not the least being the reaction to the overhyped (and often misleading, IMO; see this post for why) Abu Ghraib stories. Or the reaction to the "Bottles" non-story. Or, pick almost any other story of alleged American perfidy spread by the Old Media and reaction to same. If you think that members of the Old Media (and New) don't look at and even study the reactions around the world to their stories, do I have a land deal for you. They do, and rather intently, so this one just doesn't fly for me.
To say that the story was a piss-poor job is to compliment it far too highly. Going with a single anonymous source for something that had to be known was inflammatory beggars (if not buggers) description. Especially given that the Al Qaeda training manual has been out there for quite some time, and this claim is straight from the book. Nor the fact that this has been a topic of discussion among informed writers and readers for some time. To my mind there are other lapses of what is supposed to be journalistic procedure and ethics here, but again I leave that fisking to others.
No, what matters here is that newsweek screwed the pooch massively. They ran a story that has shaken a fragile democracy [do they really want to see the Taliban and its regular (and almost ritual) rape and murder of females of all ages and atrocities back?], endangered the lives of civilians dedicated to alleviating the humanitarian crisis generated by the Taliban (and not the liberation), and endangered the lives of American and Allied armed forces still fighting the Taliban. They have also done massive damage to media credibility and freedom of the press -- to the point that if we lose such the Old Media will have no one but themselves to blame.
I am also left pondering a rather distasteful question, if not conclusion. Did newsweek inadvertently provide aid and comfort to the enemy in time of war? Or, did newsweek knowingly provide aid and comfort to the enemy in time of war? Instapundit sums it up well when he says "If the folks at Newsweek are too ignorant to realize this, or too sloppy to care, then they shouldn't be in the news business."
As for me, it is my opinion that the author of this pile of crap and every editor and member of management above him are as morally and ethically guilty of the murders (and looting, burning etc.) that resulted as if they had gone and shot, beaten, or clubbed those people themselves. If this erodes or ends up leading to the destruction of the fledgling democracy there, they are guilty of that as well as simply damaging it now.
I have heard the non-apology and am not impressed. If they are sincere, and not just trying to skate, then they need to do more than the token. In this case, words don't mean shit. The mark of a Man is not apologizing, but in doing whatever is possible to make right a wrong. Concrete actions, and I don't just mean firing a couple of people, will show how serious they are.
Tremendous damage has been done the new elected government of Afghanistan; tremendous damage has been done to the United States and its efforts to ensure our safety; and, a tremendous slur was made against the members of the military.
Make it right. I don't care what it takes, make it right. Not words, not half-assed stories, belated retractions, or non-apologies. Actions.
LW
disgusted
NOTE: Follow-Up is here.
Three Days To Cuba Nostalgia
Get on over to Val's and check things out. If you can do something to help with his part of Cuba Nostalgia, then please do it.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 110
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 110th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
Yes, this is getting old, but then again that is the point. I figure that the tape will be released about the same time Kerry signs his 180...
May 16, 2005
Ouch
The closing went well on Friday, and Friday afternoon and evening found me doing prep work to start priming for some serious painting. The house is very nice, but the owner before the person from whom I bought the lair had a thing for shades of avacado and dark green, and dark browns. It has taken three or four coats of primer to get the living room and dining room ready to paint, and I am going to check this afternoon to see if the solarium needs yet another coat. In addition to all that, I also got the first coat of paint up on the living room ceiling. Good news is that under the carpet in a couple of rooms are wood floors, mostly hardwood. As soon as painting is done, floor refinishing is the order of the day. The ouch comes from the way I feel, which is decidedly sore.
I wonder if insurance covers an emergency massage...
LW
Four Days To Cuba Nostalgia
Get on over to Val's and check things out. If you can do something to help with his part of Cuba Nostalgia, then please do it.
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 109
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 109th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 13, 2005
Friday Wolf Blogging
Well, I've asked Tristan here to keep an eye on the place this weekend, as I will be off, and there probably will not be any posting. The reason is good: I have just bought my first lair, and am spending the weekend doing prep work, priming, and hopefully painting. Lots of priming is required, as it comes complete with many, many shades of dark green throughout the downstairs. Know how I want to do the dining room, and with luck will get it done along with all the primer coat(s). Enjoy your weekend, too.
LW
May 12, 2005
Eight Days To Cuba Nostalgia
Get on over to Val's and check things out. If you can do something to help with his part of Cuba Nostalgia, then please do it. If nothing else, read the posts so that ignorance such as this and this can be eliminated.
LW
The Cinco de Mayo Package
I thought I has posted this before, but Kiltbaby and Mr. C timed the most recent care package to perfection. In addition to a few things I requested, they did up a full Cinco de Mayo package that arrived on 5 May and inlcuded a bottle of mojo. If you don't know what that is, you need to spend a lot more time at Val's and Steve's. If I can get the grill moved in time, plan to use it to cook up something special for Cuba Nostalgia...
Thank you both for the wonderful and tasty care packages! I can't tell you how much they mean to me.
LW
The Foolish Things We Do With Shoes
Recently, I was talking on the phone with Eric and the subject of shoes came up. Specifically, the bad things we have done to our feet with shoes. His tale was of the recent meet in Chicago, of new shoes and ultimately bloody feet, and my most recent was last fall's visit to Austria. Unlike Eric, I had no other shoes to use, and I was determined to see and do all I could despite the fact that I had figured out the first day that my new Clarks were not broken in properly. Yet and still, I put in probably no less than five miles a day and that final day in Vienna was quite probably a good bit more. Net result was almost having to crawl to the bed and around the room for a while. Not the first time for me, since something similar happened years ago, and thank goodness for OTC anti-inflammatories.
So, what's your worst shoe/foot story?
LW
Am I The Last
To figure out that the default sound on Apple Mail for "no mail" is the ping of the tracker from Aliens? At first I thought it sounded like sonar from war/cold-war movies, but it kept bugging me so I put on headphones and tracked it down. Actually, it is sort of nice, but I do hope the boss doesn't figure out why I hit "check mail" faster and faster as they approach...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 105
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 105th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 11, 2005
Memories Of A Roto-Tiller
Events have been bringing me face-to-face with a lot of things recently, including what passes these days for roto-tillers. I look at all the fancy things, with all the OSHA-mandated bull plates, shields, cut-offs, and such, and laugh. Those are not real roto-tillers.
Dad had the best one I've seen. It was simple, with the engine over the tines so that the weight helped both push them down and steady the operation. No plates or shields, everything was open so that you could easily take off the outer tines, and change tines for paddles or other attachments. A simple and effective drive trigger that served as a dead-man switch without the need for multiple interlocks and safeties. The only injury that ever came about through use of this unsafe but effective (and relatively fuel-efficient) machine was a case of fire ant bites when Dad missed a nest with the killer and I plowed through it.
When Dad died, I ended up giving it to his girlfriend -- the woman I am still happy and proud to call my step-mom. I had no place to store it, and no garden in which to use it. Her son used it on her/their garden, which was one she and Dad had started together. Each has moved since, and I am sad to say that I no longer know where that rugged and reliable machine may be.
I do know one thing: If I ever find its like again, I will buy it new or used.
LW
Welcome Insapundit Readers!
Thanks for coming by, and whilst you are here, please feel free to check out the Saving Pvt. Journalism series; Way Of The Wolf archives; pictures and posts on wolves; discussions of space commercialization; discussions on emergency and other preparedness; and, discussions on products and services. Heck, feel free to browse through all the archives, and I hope you enjoy your visit.
LW
Also, thank you Prof. Reynolds!
Nine Days To Cuba Nostalgia
Go wish Val good luck and if you can do something, jump on in. I do wish I could be there in person, and if you are anywhere in Florida you should take the time and go.
LW
A Good Day, A Good Deed
Eric, the evil white guy, and his better half took a wonderful-sounding trip the other day. Along the way, they also did a good deed for a kitten. Go read, and enjoy.
LW
The Truth About Ironbear
You know, I've had my suspicions for some time now. Ironbear has allegedly been "hibernating", with his last post being this one. Well, the truth is out. It seems that he has a cousin up this way, Snowbear, who runs a frozen custard chain. The report is that some relative - can't imagine who it would be - has taken up residence in one of the coolers and is eating his way through the stock in it. If all this is true, figure that means we might see Ironbear post again soon, either through finally being through the food, or just so full or it he is about to explode and needing an outlet...
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 104
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 104th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 10, 2005
Mamamontezz Needs Our Help
A drunk took out every running vehicle Mamamontezz and Delftsman have in a hit-and-run. The insurance company isn't going to do much at all. A blogger has a plan. Let's rock.
LW
Lawn Mower Question
If someone was needing to get a lawn mower and had a quarter acre or so of regular lawn, and a quarter acre plus of fairly deep grass to cut, what would you recommend for them? Would you go with a plain mower, a mulching mower, a bag mower, or what? Given the size of the lot, a push mower (a la the Coyote Blender) is not an option for more than just the first area, IMO. See, Evil Glenn is not the only one who can do mower blogging... BTW, no reason I ask, no reason what-so-ever.
LW
Into The Light: Tommy Young
My cousin Tommy Young, the relative I mentioned here, passed into the light Saturday night. He was in many ways the last link to my Dad's generation, and was the person responsible for getting my Dad to fess up to some tales. Without Tommy, many of those might have never been remembered or passed along. He leaves behind a wife, a daughter, grandchildren, and many cousins and friends. May the light shine on them all this day as they gather to celebrate his life.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 103
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 103rd Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 09, 2005
Wolf Park Visit Update
Well, I have been most remiss since I don't seem to have previously linked to Smiling Dynamite's tale of her (and Harvey's) visit to Wolf Park. As for what happened later that evening, well, let's just say it was warmer than the day and I deny all responsibility.
LW
Volunteer Week: The Final Tally
It has been longer than planned, but I wanted to give a final tally to the Volunteer Week activities, noting that the previous tally was a bit short.
First, I want to say that the Bad Example family rocks! They led the way and combined, outdid everyone else. Jim at Parkway Rest Stop did yeoman's service with his very kind donation. All together, $245.00 was raised to benefit the Volunteer Bureau and Wolf Park. I would like to thank the following blogs/bloggers for their kindness and generosity:
Bad Example
Boudicca's Voice
Cascade Exposures
Letters From New York City
Parkway Rest Stop
Smiling Dynamite
Technicalities
Thank you all very much for your donations!
LW
Passing Out
Over at Bodicca's, she has a tale of a Mass where one of the altar boys passed out. This comes hard on the heels of a son's first communion, and reminded me of when I joined the Methodist church as a youth.
In our case, it was something more than a first communion and included a type of baptism into the church and adulthood. We had studied for weeks, done all sorts of preparations designed to teach us and to prepare us for the ceremony. All went well, except for one young man.
When he finished his part in the ceremony and turned to go down the aisle and out, things got to be too much for him. His father must have realized something was wrong, because he was moving -- I was told -- from the moment his boy turned around. The poor kid got just a few steps down the aisle and went out like a light. His father caught him before he hit the floor, and quickly carried him on outside to recover. The boy was alright, and took some ribbing over the incident as people made light of it. The laughter took a lot of the sting and embarassment out of it for him. It also gave the more theological a chance to make a point about how the father was there to catch him when he fell so that he did not hit the ground, but was carried over his troubles. It made for one of the more interesting entries into that church.
LW
Carnival Of The Recipes Is Up
Actually, it has been up as the Pascha Basket Edition hosted by Techno Gypsy. Want to know what a Pascha Basket is? Then get on over, tovarish, and enjoy all the good food!
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 102
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 102nd Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 08, 2005
May 07, 2005
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires (Ironbear currently hibernating), and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.
Open Post Saturday
I've been doing my Food for Thought Saturday for more than two years now, and decided that today I would do something a bit different. I've never done an open post before, and decided that I wanted to give it a try so that you could comment or link to fun or thoughtful things that were of interest to you. If this works, it could become a regular feature on Saturdays, and perhaps even during the week as well. It will not replace the regular effort, but simply allow a way to augment it. So, keep in mind that this is a day for good news, philosophy, and perhaps pondering all the non-negative that gets such short shrift these days. With that caveat, have at it!
LW
I've Been Tagged
Harumph. Army Wife Toddler Mom has hit me with a rather disgusting meme. I think I would rather have had to come up with something related to this instead. Ah, well, since Saturday is to be a lite day, I guess this qualifies:
Once upon a blog so dreary, I squandered weak and teary
Over yet one more curious meme of rotten gore
Came a sqwaking and a rapping, demanding entry to the chamberpot door
Only quickly, lest it be upon the floor
Silken feathers rustling against the purple curtain
Filled me with fantastic terror, as it launched across the floor
Over it flew, my heart beating hard, as it cleared the table and the bowl
Shamless brat for evermore
Deep into the bowl it plunged, from parrot flying
As I stood with horrored countenance and swore
Damned bird who shat, with aim deceiving
Your turd, my bird, in a punchbowl splats
With apologies to Mr. Poe,
LW
May 06, 2005
Friday Wolf Blogging
Okay, okay, I know it is late, but at least it got done. To make up for the lateness, a special one for the afternoon.
Once again, I can't recommend highly enough Monty Sloan's Wolf Park Photo Seminars. Check them out, and go ahead and get your reservations in for the fall.
LW
Of Jersey Weddings
This post by the always wonderful Jim brought to mind a wedding I attended in New Jersey years back. I was there as a friend of the groom, and the family of the bride was mainly Italian (and the story of how the mother of the bride came to think I was a gigolo is a story for in person and several drinks). Now, the wedding was different from the traditional Southern/Southern Baptist events I had attended most of my life, and I enjoyed the differences including the DJ.
At least until the "fun" nearly started. For some reason, this young DJ decided to play the theme from The Godfather despite the obvious ethnic tilt of the room. A few older gentlemen in the bride's family took exception to this, to the point of starting to go "have a woid" with the DJ. The groom's brother saw what was happening, and leaped out onto the dance floor, and started doing the worst Brando-as-Godfather impersonation you have ever seen -- he mugged it alright. It was so bad, and such an obvious spoof and dis, that the gentlemen in question got to laughing so hard they were dissuaded from their mission. Good save, go-rilla. To this day, I wonder if that DJ ever realized what nearly happened to him...
LW
Free Snake Inside
Yesterday, I read several accounts of this story. Have to admit, if a snake popped out of my cereal box, it would not make me a happy wolf.
Yet, the story reminded me of another tale from Dad. The farm supply store where he worked had mice problems because of all the feed and such. Dad's solution was to catch black and rat snakes, and put them out in the straw and hay area where the mice liked to live. This did lead to the occasional odd meeting, but the best one was the tourist snake.
This person, female I think, came in to buy some bales of hay. This was done, but as she was pulling out, Dad and the others noticed something odd with one of the bales. Looking closer, they saw a snake sticking its head out the top of the bale, looking around, trying to figure out what the heck was going on. As the person pulled out onto the highway and took off, the snake had come out so that a good two feet of it was upright and out, just like you would expect to see with a snake charmer. The last they saw, the snake was still up and looking around, just like any tourist.
I still wonder what the snake thought, and what the driver thought when they finally did get around to looking in the rear-view mirror...
LW
Congratulations Gray Monk
Go congratulate Gray Monk, who has recently become a "Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters".
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 99
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 99th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 05, 2005
Wolf Puppies
I got to meet the wolf puppies for the first time yesterday afternoon! There were six, but two have already gone to another facility that was eager to get them, so there are only four boys left. The thing that amazed me was how much behavior they were already showing. They are cute, but coming up fast and moving along -- to the point I suspect they may be a handful. With luck, I will get to spend some time with them on Saturday morning. If you haven't seen them, keep checking the Photo Of The Day site for pictures. That reminds me, don't forget to go give Monty's site a visit to buy some of the best wolf photography out there.
LW
American Soldier Needs Your Help
Over at Citizen Smash's place the other day, I learned that American Soldier faces a rather terrifying battle. Go on over there and wish him well, for he needs all the good thoughts and prayers he can get right now.
LW
Congratulations Babalu Blog!
Nothing says that fidel is Val's bitch better than having Castro order Babalu Blog to be blocked from the island. What a puta. A blog, a collection of words, fills him with terror because it truly speaks truth to misused power, and exposes the lies for all the world to see.
You know, though, I think I just insulted not only the many nice whores with whom I have talked over the years, but every whore, everywhere. Because, you see, the skankiest crack whore on the street is a notch or three above fidel in honor, integrity, and everything that counts. So, to them, my apologies.
To Val, my congratulations. May you continue to do such an outstanding job, and may one day we both be able express ourselves fully upon his grave.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 98
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 98th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 04, 2005
ALERT: Phony Casualty Officers Scamming Military Spouses
BOLO two males posing as a Marine and a Sailor, scamming or trying to scam the spouses of those serving in Iraq.
Blackfive has the details.
While I am tempted to use Mischa's "rope, tree, some assembly required" line here, they probably should be turned in alive. Note that I do not say good condition, only alive.
Spread the word, and try to make sure that any spouses you know understand how things are really done, so that they won't be taken. I hope that these two try to scam someone who does know, and who arranges a very warm reception for them.
LW
Gun And Alcohol Proofing Your Children
One of the newest members of the Bad Example Family is Shakey Pete, and he has started out with a roar. A much needed roar as everyone who jabbers about child proofing guns is missing the point: You should not be trying to child proof the guns, but gun proof your children. Except for the melon, this is very much what my parents did to me and as a result I knew that guns, real guns, were not toys. They were there, they were tools, and they were to be respected. That is a lot of what is behind Laughing Wolf's Weapons Safety Rules.
If you make something not a mystery, not glamorous, and not a sneak-off-behind-the-stairs-and-check-it-out thing, kids will treat it rather matter of factly. Growing up, I knew guns were tools and not to be abused, and that abuse WOULD be punished. Just the same as was done for alcohol in my household. Just the same as is being pointed out by Teresa in this wonderful post.
I was allowed a sip of beer or wine from quite young, and if memory serves did not like the taste at all early on. When I was around 10 or 12, I was allowed to slip some very potent drinks to the point that I got sick as a dog -- lesson learned. Overall, it was not big deal, it was not a way to rebel, and I learned in painful fashion to respect it. There is a good deal of data to show that such an attitude cuts down on teen drinking and on teen and even adult drinking problems. Don't take my word on it, go do some academic searches in psychology and sociology and cross-reference against Germany, Spain, and Italy. Don't expect to see this point raised by the nanny crowd...
BTW, go share a blue-band cigar with ol' Shakey.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 97
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 97th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 03, 2005
Little Sleep/What Catches Your Eye?
The current lair is not perfect in many ways, but one of the least pleasant is the lack of soundproofing between my upstairs neighbor and myself. Not merely a lack, but I suspect an amplifier is hidden in their bathroom as well... They also have been coming in (from work?) at 0200 and I hear them come up the walk, every step they take in the apartment, and more. Sometimes I can sleep through it, but last night was not one of those nights, so no deep thoughts here today.
Instead, spurred by an exchange or two of late, what is it that catches your eye in viewing a male/female of interest?
For me, three things stand out: beautiful hair, a well-turned bum, and proportion. Beautiful hair on a female catches my eye, and draws me in. Colour doesn't matter all that much, just that it is well cared for, pretty, and long does not hurt at all.
The female bum is one of the finest works of art in the universe. Period. A nice one, well shaped, will draw my attention no matter the condition of the rest of the body.
Proportion counts for me. I am not into huge anything, but like it all to match reasonably well. My own preference up top is for A (awesome), B (beautiful), or C (complete); but, I also want it all natural. I will take natural anything over artificial huge any day.
Yes, I know we've had this one before, but I'm tired and running late. Besides, it usually draws some interest and discussion, so is a good semi-open thread...
Enjoy.
LW
Davos Tape Held Hostage, Day 96
*cue nausea-inducing grim graphic*
*cue cheesy grim music*
Today marks the 96th Day since the events of 27 January, and still the tape remains hostage. A tape that was once promised, but now is the hostage at the center of a still swirling controversy. A tape that will out the truth, and must be released for that reason. A tape that still awaits strong calls from those most involved in the matter for its freedom. A tape that needs your calls for its freedom, for the benefit of us all.
Go check out War, Truth, and Videotape and help them out. Sign the petition. Freedom for the tape!
LW
May 02, 2005
Carnival Of The Recipes
Thesis-In-Progress Edition no less, is up and hosted by the enchanting and matriculating CalTechGirl. I have been most remiss of late in posting both recipes and the Carnival, so am glad to take this opportunity to fix at least one part of that. Go enjoy a lot of tasty treats!
LW
On Hunting And Conservation
From a comment left at this post by Eric, I may have hit a nerve, which was not my intention. That said, the comment gives me a chance to tell a couple of tales and make some more points that I think need to be made.
First, I am a hunter. Anything that is a threat to mine or me is fair game and will be taken out as appropriate. Other than that, I hunt for food and only for food. To me, sport hunter is a contradiction in terms, and my rules of language here keep me from describing such creatures in in appropriate language. Bottom line is, you hunt to look after your own, to keep them safe and well-fed.
These, along with one-shot one-kill, were the rules my Dad taught me and I respect them and the thought behind them. Dad taught marksmanship for the Corps, and he was a cheap bastard frugal, so one shot worked well for both views. I can't count the number of times it was pointed out to me that each shell cost a dime (or more as the years went by) and not to waste them. The whole idea was to put meat on the table for a lot less than buying it at the grocery store, because doing so allowed us to do a lot of other things and helped give me the education I would not have otherwise obtained.
Within this, we also hunted in areas where deer were overpopulated. Thinning the herds helped them, and man had to do it as there were no natural predators to do the job. With good management, the populations not only came down, but became healthier and otherwise improved. Our own take was often on the young end of the spectrum, as a spike buck tastes much nicer than a tough old 20-pointer, and a young doe is even better when they can be legally taken. The place we ended up hunting the most was a cousin's dairy farm, where deer did a large dollar value of damage each year, and we also were able to cut down on the number of black-and-white spotted deer (i.e. dairy cows, along with the occasional goat) shot by yuppies (usually out of Atlanta) from the road.
When shooting herbivores, even those who are predatory towards lawns and landscaping, it really does not matter quite as much which ones you shoot. When hunting predators, it does. If you take out the hyper-predatory members, you actually can encourage those that remain to turn to things beneficial to humans and the environment. If you take out the less aggressive members, you encourage hyper-predatory behavior which is a BAD THING for humans and the environment.
I will illustrate the point with a true story from the days before Rabun County became a yuppie paradise. There, many of the larger predators were hunted out, with the result that the remaining ones were quite aggressive. To the point that at least one started hunting humans in its range. I know this because it hunted my family, and Dad eventually had to go out at night and hunt it to ensure our safety. It took a few times of each stalking the other, but Dad did win out, though he almost hated to do it as he disliked what led to it and had more than a bit of respect for the mountain lion. Yes, there were large cats there, and they made an effort to come back in a few years ago, which sadly failed to the best of my knowledge. I admit to harboring some hope that they might thin the herd of yuppies to benefit the human species...
Which leads me back to those predatory herbivores and a story that makes me laugh every time I remember it. Within the environmental movement are a lot of loons that seem to feel that nature was great, a peaceful and beautiful place before humanity came along. Somehow they seem to miss that man is an animal too, and a part of the ecosystem... They also seem to somehow feel that all was at peace and the mice willingly leapt into the mouths of the cats, the antelope into the lion's jaws, the bison into the wolf's jaws, etc. The concept of nature as it is, red of tooth and claw, seems to escape them.
One day, this lady who had moved into a place not far from where Dad grew up came into the feed and seed store. She was gushing on and on about the beautiful deer, the wonderful deer, the beauty of nature, and more as she bought a large number of trees, plants, and flowers. I seem to recall that it was more than $1,000.00 she spent, and think it could even have been much higher. It was less than a week later that she was back, buying everything all over again along with fencing and other supplies. That day, it was those "damned deer!" instead, as the local deer had seen all the plants in the same light kids see free ice cream. Dad tried hard not to let his amusement show.
So, I hunt the way I do