Is It Full Moon or Something?

Or is it just because Merv Griffin died? Last night was a sleep over for my sister's dog Daisy. They had to return my nephew to school before he was initially scheduled so Daisy was our guest for the night. She was a little nervous and really wasn't sure what to make of things and it was a little warm for sleeping anyway.

What made it even more difficult was that around 2:45 a.m. the new neighbors behind me came home from who knows where. The music was blaring and there was loud talking. OK, I can deal. I fell back to sleep till about 3:30-4:00 a.m. when the neighbors and friends decided it would be a good idea to start setting off firecrackers in the backyard. So, not only can I see the flashing of the firecrackers in my bedroom, but can hear the noise. Daisy isn't a fan of firecrackers so she was up, then Jasmine was up, though she didn't know why since she's pretty deaf, both cats were walking around thinking is someone going to feed them, then Brian and of course, myself were up.

We put up with the fireworks for a little but then quickly became annoyed. We got the phone book out to find the non-emergency phone number for the local police department. Check - called it, the message directed us to call the number for the local dispatch. Called that....the line was busy. Sigh.

Boobapalooza

Today was the first annual Boobapalooza a.k.a. mammogram. I am officially allowed to say this is the first annual since I'll be getting one every year for the rest of my life. I really wasn't sure what to expect. I mean I heard stories about how it feels like your nipple is just going to spring off and fly across the room. I've also heard, it's uncomfortable but not bad. I'd have to agree with that one. It was uncomfortable but certainly something I can live with.


I have to admit I was pretty amazed at the extent to which my breast could be flattened, squished, lifted, and pulled into several Play Doh like shapes. I must wait a few days to get the results of the exam. I do not expect anything out of the ordinary.

Whew!

I am just now breathing a sigh of relief because I just learned the verdict on the trial that I was a juror on this week.

The case was publicized for quite some time on television and in the newspaper. I'm thankful that I missed seeing any of the media attention on this prior to going into the case. The allegations were from a then 16 year old student who accused her drivers education teacher of forcing her to perform oral sex on him while they were out on an after school driving lesson.

My first impression was that this guy must be a creep because kids don't make things like this up nor do false accusations make it as far as the D.A.'s office who represented the victim in this case. But as I heard more of the testimony without any witnesses since there were purportedly only two people involved, the final verdict became quite clear.

The victim had so many holes in her stories. She waited several months to come out with the allegations, which isn't unusal in a sex case, but her stories varied each time she told them. One thing was consistent, the attacker, who in the first version of her story was an unknown man, wore boxers. Then when she claimed it was her teacher that did this to her, he wore boxers during the attack as well. Her driving instructor doesn't have a pair of boxers to his name. Based on that and the many inconsistencies in her stories, the jury found him not guilty. Since I was an alternate, I didn't get to be part of the deliberations. It couldn't have taken them long to come to a conclusion, it was so very obvious to me that this man wasn't guilty.

I think this young girl was truly sexually victimized. I think it took place on the road she claimed it did and on the night she claimed as well. I think it was a male friend of hers that did it. Because she said she was on that road with him later that night, after the purported first attack. She may have consented with her friend and she may not have. And because she had a boyfriend at the time, I think this was a way for her to absolve her guilt for messing around willingly or protecting her so called "friend" if he did really attack her.

One of the biggest shames in this whole thing is that the man she accused of doing this to her is very well liked and respected in both the school where he works and in the community. I found out yesterday during his testimony that his wife was going through cancer treatment just before these allegations came out. That poor family, that poor man. What a senseless waste of time, energy, money and emotion for something that was obviously not true from the start. Both of these people's families friends and relatives will forever have to live with this huge scar that has been made because of this girl's false accusations.

I wish Mr. Frank and his family peace.

Stupid Talk Part II

Ahh, another tough day in court. Yea, I know I'm just a juror but I'm gonna use that line as long as I can!!!

All I can say is that I'm completely fascinated with the judicial process. I have a feeling that I look like I'm watching a tennis match while court is in session between directing my attention from the witness back to the lawyer. Again, I'm thankful to be in the jurors box and not on the witness stand.

The jurors have been spending quite a bit of time together waiting for the judge and lawyers to begin the court session. Mainly, I either try to read which is pretty difficult considering some people need to talk constantly or I just listen in amazement. I rarely say a word. Which for those of you that know me will find difficult to believe. It's true. Today while we were waiting, the conversation among the other jurors got on the subject of recycling. One of the jurors remarked "I don't believe in recycling." She claims she doesn't think it's sanitary because people put all kinds of things in cans and bottles. Oh no, please, not in a confined room, please no ridiculously ignorant people. Then another chimed in that the plastic water bottles and aluminum cans are broken down and reused, it's not the actual bottle or can that is reused. Really? Are you guys like rocket scientists???

Then another person says, "You know you aren't supposed to reuse the plastic bottles. The bacteria collects on the mouthpiece." What bacteria? Mine? The kind that's living in my mouth now? So, if I put what was in my mouth back in my mouth that's going to make me sick? Then, as I knew it would, they got on the subject that the plastic some how leeches into the water if you continue to use the same plastic bottle. I couldn't take any more. I said "That's not true." They kept going. I said "that's not true." And because they couldn't shut their mouths for more than a half second, no one heard me. Can't wait till it's deliberation time for this case. Should be interesting.

Did She Really Say That?

Friday evening we went to Columbia (PA) not South America, to do some work on Brian's place. After an evening of profuse sweating, because it was hot you naughty people, we decided to go to a local sub shop for food.

Brian assured me these were some of the best subs around and based on the smell that was coming out of the place, and the number of cars in the parking lot, it was going to be a reall good sub! We went to the take out part of the restaurant where they had coolers of beer, fourty's, Bud, Coors, the usual. It kind of reminded me of the sub shop I worked in last year.

We were several people back in line to order which gave me some time to decided what I wanted since Brian already knew he was getting a steak sandwich since they made some of the best. Finally, I had decided what I wanted and we anxiously awaited someone to take our order which went something like this:

Cute girl behind the counter (CGBC): "Can I help someone?"
Me: "A tuna sub"
CGBC: "What about it?"
Me: (with an incredibly annoyed tone to my voice) "Can I have one? No tomatoes."
CBGC: Reluctantly getting the tuna out and putting it on the sub roll, not asking what I want on the sub.
Me: "Can I have provolone cheese?"
CBGC: "Mayo?"
Me: "Yes"
CBGC: "Tomatoes?"
Me: (eye rolling) "No."

You couldn't believe the relief I felt when the sub was finally wrapped up and in the bag. That was exhausting. She looked normal enough, and she also appeared to be young enough that she probably hadn't done that much damage to her brain with drugs and alcohol. I guess she got that way naturally.

We The Jury

The last three days have been kinda hectic. I've worked a total of 34 hours in those days. I'm looking forward to a big day off tomorrow with lots of napping in the a/c! It's hot outside!

I guess my rest period will continue next week since I'm scheduled for jury duty. The last time I did it was maybe 10 years ago or so. I remember reading a lot. I have books already on standby for the weeks worth of reading I hope to do.

I am also studying to take a test so I can get my insurance license. I've worked for many years in the health insurance industry and that hasn't nearly prepared me for the kind of questions they ask on this test. I know I'll pass it when I go to take the test for real but for now, there's much studying, which I plan to do in between reading for fun while on jury duty.

Most people groan and roll their eyes when I tell them what I'll be doing next week. I've even heard people say they won't register to vote so they don't have to serve on jury duty. Isn't that a little extreme?? These are probably the same people that sit at home at night and watch re-runs of Judge Judy or have Nancy Grace on speed dial.

I find the entire process pretty interesting. The last time I served, I did make it on to a jury for a nice young man that was accused of making terroristic threats on his girlfriend. I hope to get on a jury again . I'm thankful as well that I'm on the jury side and not sitting in one of the desks in front of the judge with my lawyer by my side!!

The Road

I just finished reading a fantastic book. The Road by Cormac McCarthy. It is a postapocalypitic story of a father and son as they journey around a burned out country formally known as Ameridca.

The story paints an extremely grim story of survival with no hope of return to the world they once knew in their search for food and shelter while trying to remain safe from the "other" survivors. Though this story may sound outlandish, couldn't help but to think, it could happen. And I wonder should I find myself trying to survive with none of the modern conveniences or natural resources like fresh water, would I be able to survive?

The story definitely has a deeper meaning beyond that of survival, struggle and loss. This book is definitely worth checking out!

Why Bother?

Why is it when I think I'm just going to go out with friends and be home and in bed by a decent hour and actually utter the words "I'm not staying out late" that I always end up staying out late?

Last night was an innocent meeting friends for a beach trip/book club meeting with dinner and drinks which turned into more drinks and more drinks which turned into lets go see the Jimmy Buffett tribute band which turned into let's go to Smalls and see the punk bands. That place was loud and sweaty with lots of moshing which resulted in me losing my flip flop (not blowing it out). I know, why would I have flip flops on in a place like that?!? Well, I didn't know I was going there. Remember, I wasn't staying out late and we were just going to one place!! I think I'm still a little deaf from last night, but it was fun!!!

Earth to Reality

Does this AP news headline make sense to anyone??

"Bush warns al-Qaida in Iraq a threat"

I Live on a Chain

Another musical experience tonight. Going to see Pete Yorn at the Chameleon Club in Lancaster. He's not a mainstream artist but is usually played on my favorite radio station WXPN out of Philadelphia. You should out his music!

The Butchers

After an excellent show by The Police on Friday night (there really wasn't a song we wanted to hear that we didn't. Well, they didn't play Canary in a Coal Mine, but I'll let that slide.) The show was great!!!

Saturday was the girls of The Dutchland Rollers taking on the Coal City Rollers in Lancaster. We celebrated the victory (who by the way remain undefeated) of the Dutchland Rollers as well as Mimosa Mamma's birthday with karaoke at a local bar. Lots of fun!!

Tonight, we're going to see The Butchers at a club in Harrisburg. They have recently returned from their gigs in both Brookly and Coney Island, NY to tear up the scene in Harrisburg!! Always a good time, guaranteed there will be Pabst in a can!

The Reunion Tour

Yep, tonight...The Police!

Now that was fun!!!

Nothing

I have nothing witty or cute to say, nothing truly exciting is going

on. I'm just enjoying:

the long, hot days,

the lack of responsibility,

no homework,

no frustrating, boring 9-5 job to go to,

the endless fun times with my friends,

getting to see my nephew,

staying up late,

sleeping in late,

hanging the clothes on the line to dry,

the naked porch drinking,

live music,

blowing bubbles with the dog,

watching my flowers grow,

keeping up with my blogger buddies,

wearing a bathing suit and shorts to do yard work,

getting all sweaty and cooling off with the hose,

beer,

going for walks with the dog, or along the river,

eating dinner outside,

Brian,

and realizing how truly blessed I really am. Life is good.

Some of the Sweetest Words Ever Written

To: Carnealian
From: Assistant Registrar Lebanon Valley College

We have indeed received your transcripts and I can confirm that you are clear to graduate in August. Your degree will be conferred on August 25th, and you should receive your diploma in the mail shortly thereafter.

New Stuff

I've added a couple of new things to my sidebar. I suspect you've all noticed already and have checked them out (wink!) But, just in case you haven't:

I have linked the website for Leaping Bunny. You conscious consumers out there may recognise this logo and know that if you see it, the product hasn't been tested on animals. YAY!! Not all companies use this logo, some will make a statement about not testing, some companies like Avon, Revlon, Estee Lauder haven't tested in years but the packaging says nothing. I usually use the PETA web site to look up companies to see if they do or don't test on animals, this web site will do the same. Thankfully, this web site doesn't have all the pictures on that PETA does that make me want to put my head on my desk and cry (thankfully.)

This here nifty little web site that belongs to a cousin of NittanyBri. She lives in New Mexico and makes the most fabulous one of a kind purses. She'll sew beads or money into the bags as decorations. Sometimes the purses are made of vintage kimonos. All the purses are named after goddesses. Groovy, huh? Guys, these would make great gifts for the ladies in your life. Ladies, that's you and me Lass, won't they be great presents to get for our birthdays and Christmas and Valentines Day?!?!

I've mentioned these ladies once before. NittanyBri's sister and cousin skate for the Dutchland Rollers. They are a Lancaster County based ladies roller derby team. There are other teams sprouting up called the Distle Finks, The Barn Razors, and The Hex Offenders. There are teams actually nationwide as well as in Canada. I said that I'd like to join a local team I think it'd be a heck of a lot of fun. And, I'd get to come up with a really cool, one of a kind name like some of the other girls: Swoop Deville, Spawna Skatin, Belle Fast Bomber, Treasure "Chest", Haulin' Ash, and Skirt Chaser. I think I'd need help coming up with a name though. Guess I should first get on a team, huh? The Rollers next bout is on July 21, also a birthday of the famous (or infamous) Dutchlad Roller, Mimosa Mama!!

Historic Property for Sale

Can you just imagine, waking up in this 14th century, 50+ room castle over looking the European landscape? Well, you can, this castle is for sale! The catch is, you've got to make it through the night! Luckily, this castle also comes with secret passageways for a fast getaway!



This is Bran castle and is located in Transylvania, Romania and has ties to Vlad the Impaler (a.k.a. Dracula) who purportedly only stayed one night in the castle.

This castle was also the setting for Bram Stoker's version of Dracula the novel as well as the movie.

The Hapsburg family that owns the castle have not set a price for it, though it is speculated to cost around $135 million.

7-7-07

I'm feeling somewhat left out. With all the hub-bub about this date that is. I'm not getting married, I didn't even think about playing the lottery, I'm not having a baby today nor am I doing anything that seemingly requires "luck."

When I was a child my mother told me "you'll have to work for everything you get." Meaning forget about luck kid, nothing's going to come your way for free. So far, that's been true. Thanks for the clue early in life, mom! I don't win things because I chose the lucky number or was part of a drawing. Actually, come to think of it, I did buy raffle tickets and the drawing is today! Hey, maybe I will be lucky! The only way I win stuff is if I need to know something. Usually something trivial. I keep hoping to win the lottery but I don't usually play so that kind of narrows my chances. NittanyBri has been playing in an office pool for six years and still nothing.

If you're getting married, having a baby, playing the lottery or whatever, I hope 7-7-07 is your lucky day!

2012

I was sort of watching a show on the History Channel last night. What really got my attention during the show was the conclusive evidence pointing toward the end of the world as we know it to be in the 2012. WHAT?!?

The conclusive evidence starts with a web bot that was originally used to predict stock changes. Now their using the program to pic out repeated information on the internet to predict the future. They have purportedly predicted the events of 9/11, the tsunami in Indonesia in December 2004 as well as hurricane Katrina. This is just modern day predictions, this program went on to talk about the sixteenth century woman that predicted women dressing like men and cutting off all their hair:

Prior to the sixteenth century, evidence points to the Hopi tribe of Indians as well as the Aztec calendars both of which can predict, quite accurately, the seasons, natural catastrophes as well as lunar eclipses. Both of these calendars end in the year 2012. YIKES!!

Happy Birthday to Another Princess

This princess is going to be a very sassy 14 years old July 4.

Happy Birthday Jasmine!

Happy Birthday to a Princess

I couldn't stop watching the concert for Diana yesterday. There was one great act after another. It was so fun to watch the Princes......dancing I mean. Sorry I got distracted there!