jardinero

Happy Birthday, my friend.

It certainly IS nice to have you back here among the wise and wacky

Hugs,

J.

Hi Lynne ~

Sounds like he lived a good long while. So sorry about the timing of his death. Wow, it always seems like these things come in waves, eh? I don't know why that is. Maybe so we can get it all out of our system at once. I went through my divorce, the illness and death of my sis and a job loss all in a relatively short period of time and - - in the midst of it - - thought I'd never likely recover from the sadness. But in time, I did.

My thoughts are with you, dear lady. Please take care of yourself by allowing yourself to rest, be pampered and cared for by people who love you.

I love you, too.

J.

Will do, PB.

J.

Happy Birthday to the huggingest guy in chat!!!

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Backatcha!

J.

May it be the beginning of a fabulous year for you!

Happy Birthday!

J.

Yes, an interesting point on who can use the word.

But, I think it's the INTENT of the use of the word which is the difference, which point I attempt to make at the bottom of page 1.

J.

In reading about this, I have a couple of thoughts:

- - Richards was "heckled" for not being very funny, which is what supposedly began this thing that cycled out of control; my thought - - if you're a stand up comedian and you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen.

- - Richards didn't just "say" the "N" word - - he responded to the heckling with verbal attacks on his audience. Unlike other stand ups (Chris Rock being one of the most notorious) who "say" the "N" word - - they're not "calling" people in their audience "n*ggers", "cr*ckers", or "wetbacks". They are using the "shock effect" of regular use of those words to provide their own brand of commentary on race, class and social life in our country. Richards was "calling" them "n*ggers" and made some comment inferring that they should be lynched. That's crossing the line and particularly coming from a Caucasian comedian who's comedic routine is NOT known to be about race (like Rock's is).

- - Rock - - for however offensive he might be to some people with his acidic tongue - - is considered a "brilliant" comic because he knows who his audience is and plays to it. So he can take on a room full of (mostly) young, very urban African-Americans who eat up his commentary on the reality, the hypocrisy, the stupidity, the need for change in race relations in America - - and makes strong points with his commentary of life in Black society in America - - cuz that's who he is. But where he's "brilliant" is his crossover appeal to the mainstream public. His 3 Emmys and multiple nominations for his HBO specials and writing for other programs attest to his appeal. But his edge didn't cut it for the Oscar audience.

George Lopez has a similar "schtick" with Latinos (though arguably, not as edgey as Rock's). And if you didn't grow up 2nd or 3rd generation Latino (I did), the nuances of some of his humor might escape you - - or may even be a little offensive - - but the Latinos in the audience (and again - -he enjoys great crossover to the mainstream public) eat it up. There's a reason this stuff plays well in LA, NYC and other large urban populations and probably not as well in smaller cities and rural America.

So, who has the "right" to use the "N" word, or say "cr*cker" or "ho", etc. in their routines? I say "intent" has a lot to do with the acceptance by an audience. Personally, I'd much rather hear a Chris Rock routine than a Don Rickles routine any day. But that's just me.

I heard a conservative radio personality call Rock a racist and bigot. My personal opinion? I doubt it. Does he harbor some prejudice? Probably pretty difficult to grow up in the U.S. (particularly as a minority) without some. But I think the INTENT of some of his routines is to bring racism to the forefront and by use of humor, examine it.

I don't think that was Richard's intent.

J.

Always informative (and humorous) investment info from the two guys who write The Motley Fool newsletter.

Website can be found at: www.fool.com

J.

Always thankful for the obvious stuff: family, friends, prosperity, my pooch, all the Greasespotters (especially Paw), but I'll add these more "ordinary" things:

1. The Web: pretty cool we can Google and look up just about anything; read and learn to our heart's content. Internet radio - - that's great too; jazz on my computer. Online shopping, online banking. I love it all. Oh! And I guess I shouldn't forget about CHAT rooms:biglaugh: Tres cool, as Belle would say.

2. Medical advancements that make 50 the new 30 (o.k. 40 in my case) -- but really - - we're in better shape and more active than our parents' and grandparents. I'll take that quality of life!

3. How about Food???? There are so many options (particularly in big cities). And you can buy it in grocery stores, online, dinners to go, all kinds of Asian, Mexican, gourmet, farmers markets. And if you want healthy, organic, or just down home (sorry Geo) it's all easily accessible.

4. Cell phones: man, where did we hide before we were accessible 24/7???? Really, for a single woman who travels - - cell phones are a God-send. And what about text messaging. Isn't it great to watch teens conduct their social life messaging away???? And now, you can even pass the time away in boring meetings at work sending stupid comments about your boss via your cell phone. Now THAT's entertainment! And I guess I should include the great cell plans these days, with long distance included - -what a deal when your family is across country!

5. Cable, TiVo, movies on iPODs or on your computer from a DVD. All pretty spiffy.

6. Other simple stuff: walking thru the woods after it's rained (what a fresh smell); laughter (especially the spontaneous, loud and innocent laughter of a child); friends (you know - - the family you get to CHOOSE!) ;); I guess I HAVE to include this one: gardening - - growing your own veggies; flowers in the spring and summer....(sigh) :)

I guess I'll end with one serious one.

FORGIVENESS: The response of the Amish community following the murder of those schoolchildren was a wonderful reminder of love and forgiveness. Maybe they're not all over it yet, but perhaps they are a lot further along the healing process because of their willingness to create a forgiving space for the healing to take place. I'm thankful people forgive me when I'm a bonehead (especially my kids), but I'm more thankful that I've learned how to become forgiving even in difficult situations. Life's too short for all that baggage.

Happy Thanksgiving.

J.

Hey John!

Happy Thanksgiving to you. Thankful today for all of you men and women over there! Take care of each other. We're all thinking about you today.

Thanks for the update and to know where you are. Particularly glad to hear that wifey is home. That's great news.

Y'all take care now.

J.

Egad is right! That is twilight-zone-ish....du du du du...

Poor Eddie.

J.

Made the apple pie last night. Did two pumpkin pies this a.m. while watching the parade. Turkey is in and smells yummy.

Sooooo, just popped in to wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving.

SimonZ - - isn't this the day you eat some wierd Polish concoction (or is that Christmas)???

1st game is on. Better get busy loafing

Have fun!

J.

P.S. Excie: did you see the opening of the parade with the Jersey Boys????

You know, Lynne - - it sounds like from some of our conversations and your posts this last year, the loss of Chuck is not the only grieving you're feeling.

In midlife, people regularly grieve the loss of youth. Also any unresolved traumas that perhaps could not be dealt with at the time, gradually resurface so we can slowly take the time to sort, process, grieve and connect all the dots.

Then on top of that (as we discussed on Mother's Day) - - the very present void of not having a mother at critical points in our womanhood and particularly now - - plus, having lost both parents in such a tragic way.

Add the sadness that was Chuck's life, and the manner in which he chose to end his pain - - well --that's difficult enough to deal with, but it opens up other wounds you've been processing as well.

Nothing too helpful to add, except to feel the pain and loss you and Shannon are feeling. It's great you have each other and such a wonderful, supportive husband in Dave (and Nick). And it's great Shannon's boyfriend and friends are there for her. She'll learn through this experience that despite the pain, people were there for her and supported her - - even if her dad could not be all that to her throughout his life. And she'll make her peace with that at some point.

I'm sure you tried. I'm sure Shannon tried. I'm sure others tried to help Chuck, but in the end, he made his choices. And yes, the timing is bad and difficult being so close to holidays.

So just be with those close to you. Feel what you're feeling. The pain will subside. Shannon will be fine and will process it all in her own way and in her own time (as you will too).

Happy Thanksgiving. I'm thankful to know you have a wonderful life and much to be thankful for, even when sad things like this occur.

Much love to you.

J.

So sorry for that distressing news, Polar Bear and Ala.

Praying and hoping for full recovery for Hayley.

J.

Well, good to finally know exactly what it is so they can correct it.

Hope she has a speedy recovery!

J.

God is great! What wonderful news, you guys!

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(((((((((((Haley))))))))))))))))))))

J.

Hi Krys ~

So glad you went to urgent care when you did and that you are breathing easier now.

Rest well, friend.

J.

Hi Gladtobeout ~

I've missed seeing you here. Will definitely pray for your daughter.

J.

OMG, Bow. That is NOT the Princess!!!! Dang the girl is getting all grown up!!!!

And quite the handsome young man Andrew is becoming, Ron. Dang, the last pic I saw of him in his Boy Scout uniform he was a young, pudgy little guy and now he's quite the looker!

Thanks for the pics, Bow.

Glad you got to see all the Rascaltribe, Dot and a new dog too!!!!

J.

My dear Rascal and Mr. Rascal ( ) ~

Wow, 20 years - - and it hasn't been easy with all the twi stuff thrown in thru many of those years, but dang it - - you are still together and have raised a brood of wonderful, smart, funny, independent and absolutely the greatest kids!!!!

Take some time to celebrate the wonderful family (with all it's ups and downs) (and critters :)) that you can take a bow for bringing into and sharing with this world. We are all the richer for having them (and you) around to enjoy (particularly at our Weenie Roasts!).

CONGRATULATIONS!

Love,

J.

Wow, great report, Ev. Thanks for taking the time to post that.

Good for Christine. I had wondered how she was doing.

I think when people go through such tradgedy in their lives, particularly when they seemingly have lost "everything" (by way of possessions), love and friendships have a way of becoming the prized treasures of their lives.

Here's to resiliency!

J.

Never learned to cook with recipes. My "abuelas" (grandmothers) cooked by hand (make your hand into the measuring cup for teaspoon, tablespoon, or even pinches of spices) - - and by taste (my favorite method).

Like you, Psalmie, I cook with what I have on hand (and I always have a well-stocked kitchen) and if someone wants my recipe, I'm happy to SHOW them how to make it, but don't ever have a recipe to hand them.

Now with baking, I do have my very favorite "old hippie" baking cookbook "Tassajara Bread Book" - -which has some of the best recipes for breads and desserts - - which I follow for the basic item, then add to it whatever moves me at the moment.

J.

Oh Great Aar ~

Call me bland, counterculture, "new age" (yuck) cuisinoephile - - but THIS S.F. Bay Area chick has been using Spike for nearly 30 years. I even travel with it, I love it so much. Not as a salt substitute, but as an all round spice that goes great on most foods. People who aren't used to it, notice it right away in dishes I make where that may be the only spice I use - - and LOVE IT.

But I'm with you on the Asian spices in certain dishes. I'm absolutely AMAZED how the fat Midwesterners can consume so much darn food to break obesity records on the blandest food known to man that they consume!!!! But don't get me started on THAT rant!

So, Batcave (nice name - WWJLA!) I'm with you girl. Spike - - the all-purpose spice I can't live without.

Now, I do have to add along with everyone else here - - GARLIC!!!!! (and extra virgin) olive oil. CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT THAT EITHER.

J.

Keep scrolling down, Dooj....it's right below "GreaseSpot Gallery and Reading Room"....

Time to check the eyes

J.

Pretty sure they are in the Tampa-St. Pete area now (that was a year or so ago).

J.