Random Musings of a Curious Mind

Stop! It Hurts!

I am a sucker for a funny story. What can I say? I love to laugh. Not a little laugh, either. I need, on a regular basis, one of those tears-rolling-down-your-cheeks, gonna-wet-my-pants belly laughs.

Today, I found Peter McKay and I haven't stopped laughing since. Okay . . . maybe while I was trying to catch my breath about 20 minutes ago. But that's it!

It's the little, commonplace occurrences in our lives that are the most aggravating. Waiting - anywhere - in line; the moron - in front of us - who waits until the light's turning red to make that left turn; telephone customer service reps - for the most part - who don't think and don't care. You get the idea.

However, if you turn your head to the side a little - gain a different vantage point - there's humor to be found in almost anything. (Well, anything where you have no major bleeding or loss of body parts.) I'm not above a little slapstick, either; like watching the cat try to turn and run on the newly waxed floors. Never fails to make me giggle.

I highly recommend "Odor In The House" and "For Whom The Bell Tolls". In fact, I'm going to go read them again!

Just as soon as I go to the bathroom.


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God Bless!

Jules

Las Vegas Strip Map

Now, this is fun. I've been in and out of the Las Vegas Greyhound station many times, traveling to see my kids. It's not the greatest neighborhood in Vegas, to say the least. Honestly, I have always wondered where the bus station is located in comparison to the Strip and all of the famous casinos.

Today, I found a great map of the Las Vegas strip and finally got my answer - many, many miles north of the 'fun stuff' on the boulevard. Not surprising, given what I saw in and around the station.

What did surprise me was the number of casinos - almost on top of each other - in the few short miles that make up the Strip. Some day, I'm going to head south and get a good look at all of the casinos. Like my mother, I'm not interested in gambling. But I can't resist the glitz and lights.

Can you imagine how many hundreds of thousands of communities would be able to survive for years on the electricity expended on any given day in Las Vegas?



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Happy Halloween!

I love Halloween! As long as I can paint my face and not be me.

    

And get lots of candy!!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
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We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Backyard Fire Pit

Well, since I'm house-hunting again, I might as well do a little decorating, too. The lighting hunt isn't going too well, so I think I'll do some outdoor shopping.

With an above-ground pool and 1.2 acres, the home near Wilmington just cries for some landscaping. And, of course, one of the first things I decided to look for were fire pits. You know - the citified version of a bonfire in the backyard?

It didn't take me long to find the perfect item, either. Almost 4' in diameter, accented with mosaic tile and wrought-iron legs - I can already imagine roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, after a day at the pool.

Eventually, I'll need to add a lawn and walkway (nobody loves a muddy yard), but not today!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Home Theater Sconces

We've been thinking about rearranging the furniture. My wireless card doesn't seem to work as well from my recliner as it does from the table next to the chair. Since I don't actually bend that way anymore, something's gotta give.

Since we're planning to move the TV to a different wall, it seemed like a good time to do a little redecorating. Among other things, I fell in love with some home theater sconces. These are absolutely great!

The styles include an "Admit One" movie ticket, "Take One" clapboard, stars, popcorn, movie camera, and comedy and tragedy masks. Or create a custom design just for your family's home theater. They're wall mounted and can even be connected to a dimmer.

I may have to get the restroom sconce to hang over my bathroom door. It's just too fun to ignore!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

News Knowledge

You know, the variety of information and 'fun stuff' that is out there on the Internet never ceases to amaze and thrill me. (Guess that's why I spend so much time wandering the WWW, huh?) I am an unconfirmed news-junkie.

Today I found a blog, which I've added to my 'Friends and Fellow Bloggers' list, that satisfies my never-ending need for current events and interesting reading material. With a twist.

News Knowledge takes the headlines and, as the tagline says, spouts personal wisdom acquired by reading the headlines.

Please check it out - I think you'll like what you read.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

CurrentCatalog.com

I am so thrilled to announce that JMark Afghans, etc. is now partnering with:



For years, Current was my only choice for stationery, calendars, greeting cards, and personalized checks - to mention just a few. They have always offered unique, quality products that appeal to everyone. Somewhere, on one of the pages in the online catalog, there is a notecard set or calendar or gift wrap package or holiday assortment that is just what you need and didn't even know it!

Here's just one example:

First Year Calendar has room for a 3 1/2" x 5" photo on each page; includes 12 birth announcement postcards. 72 milestone stickers included, also; 9" x 12". Second year calendar sold separately ©Morehead, Inc. Designed by Ruth J. or Bill D. Morehead

Imagine the joy on a new mother's face when she receives this adorable calendar, tucked inside a beautiful JMark Afghans Baby Blanket.


Personally, I just love the Pull Bows. Looped and stored flat, you literally pull the different sections out and shape the bow at the time you need it. No more squashed bows - and no more need for tons of storage space.



Another great idea? This Lifetime Address Book & Stickers. Never worry about changed addresses again. Just write the new address on one of the included stickers and place over the old address. Voila!

Why not add this Address Book to a comfy new Afghan? Make updating all that information comfy and relaxed.

Please enjoy shopping with our new Affiliate Partner. I know that I'm going to be spending a lot of time with CurrentCatalog.com!

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Golf Equipment

Over the years, I have watched a great deal of golf. (I have also watched professional wrestling, football, hockey, curling, boxing - a whole lot of sports, to say the least.) Amazingly, golf was always one of my favorites.

Most people I know find it boring, but to me it's fascinating. How these men and women take a bag full of golf equipment and do what they do, keeps me riveted to my seat. And the great shots aren't the only ones worth watching.

It's pretty easy for me to imagine having a crappy day, just like Phil Mickelson's been having. His round 2 score was a great -2. Unfortunately, rounds 1 (+9) and 3 (+6) were brutal. And Mickelson is not alone. The winds have been torturing players for three days.

Which makes Greg Norman's +2 after the 3rd round just that much more impressive. I may have to sneak a peak or two while I'm working tomorrow.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Vegas Vacations

I found out, a couple of days ago, that there are some great deals available through Greyhound for trips from Phoenix to Vegas. In fact, our recent guest managed to purchase a round-trip ticket for $9.00 less than a one-way ticket, travelling on the same day. You just have to, apparently, ask the right questions.

So, you know me, I started shopping for Vegas vacations. Mark and I haven't taken a trip together in over five years. Obviously, I would like to find something we can afford, even if it's only for a 3-day 2-night mid-week jaunt.

What I found is that, if you can travel during the week or at the last minute, it's easy to find great specials.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Las Vegas Vacations

Our neighbor, the one who helped us replace the drivers on the laptop, is heading back East. On the way, okay sorta on the way, he's wandering through Vegas. Turn a little money into a little more money. Braver than I, I can tell you that.

Although I am a confirmed non-gambler, I love the idea of Las Vegas vacations. There are so many more things to do, besides gambling.

My mom used to go to Vegas, with a friend of hers, every year or two. She played the slots - a bit. But mostly she went to the shows and enjoyed the buffets. I could do that!

Happily - Vegas has something for everyone.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

George Carlin, We'll Miss You!

An amazing and fascinating mind, George Carlin will be sorely missed by those of us who prefer our comedy intellectual and honest.

This video ~ "Life is Worth Losing" ~ is from August 2006. Contains Explicit Language



Please visit georgecarlin.com for more of George, by George himself.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

New York City Travel

After traveling to Colorado for the wedding, I find that I'd like to do more. It would be wonderful for Mark and I to get away, by ourselves, for a while. After reading about all of the great shows on Broadway, New York City travel became my first choice in vacations.

Admittedly, I was worried about the cost - especially for airfare - from AZ to NY. It was amazing to find that 4 nights (plus airfare) is really quite affordable. And the fact that we can take off anytime we like, means we can take advantage of a lot of great last minute deals.

Or we can book weeks in advance. It's good to be flexible!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Theater Seating

Have you ever played "If I hit the lottery, I'd . . ."? It's a game we play alot and each time we come up with something else that we'd do or buy, if we had the chance. But the one consistency is - we want a true home theater.

We currently have what the electronics industry laughingly calls a home theater system - an amplifier and a bunch of speakers. What I'm talking about is a large room with a giant TV, surround sound, theater seating, and a popcorn machine! Just imagine settling back in a leather recliner, complete with cupholder, and watching whatever you want on a screen so big you can see the pores on the actors' faces.

Hey, if you're going to dream - Dream Big!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle

We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.

You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

7th Heaven Book

I am a voracious reader - romances, mysteries, mystery-romance, suspense, and thrillers. Not every book in every genre is a keeper, so I tend to stick with the authors that I know I'll consistently enjoy. One of my favorites is James Patterson.

Although I regularly read the "Alex Cross" series, I didn't realize that there was another Patterson series - "The Women's Murder Club." With characteristic attention to detail and palpable tension from the opening line, the excerpt from the 7th Heaven book promises another can't-put-it-down read. I can't wait to get a copy and curl up under my cozy afghan for an evening with new 'friends', murder, and nail-biting suspense.

Keep 'em coming, Mr. Patterson!




Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle

We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.

You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Death Claims the Great 'Ben Hur'

Sadly, we learned yesterday that the world has lost another great actor. Seeing the headline: Film legend Charlton Heston dead at 84, was quite a jolt. He and his movies were so much a part of my life and the lives of my generation.

A well-done, in my opinion, fansite is in contact with Mr. Heston's personal assistant. They have been given permission to collect and forward condolences to the family. If you would like to share your feelings, this looks like a good place.

"I've played three presidents, three saints and two geniuses - and that's probably enough for any man." ~ Charlton Heston




Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle

We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.

You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules