Benazir Bhutto R.I.P.

I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Bhutto's assassination. I have much respect for her. In case you don't know, she served as Pakistan's Prime Minister before she was exiled from the country. She returned in October to run for the position. There was an earlier attempt on her life and much turmoil has occurred since her return. The election was scheduled for January 8 and now there is no telling what will occur.

She was on a mission for democracy for Pakistan. This is a woman that truly believed in something. I saw an interview with her back in October where the interviewer asked if she felt threatened for her life. She remarked that a true Muslim would not kill her because she was a woman and that was against their law. It is no surprise that these people don't play fair...

Joining the Digital Age

I have officially joined the digital age. Ollie bought me a digital camera for Christmas (can you believe I didn't even have one?) I never really thought about it since I have had him to take pictures for me the last couple of years. So, I hope to get some pics up here soon. Now I just have to learn to use it...

Holiday Happenings

No White Christmas this year in SC. The days of Iowa snow are gone. I will miss the Christmas snow but not the travel! I successfully made it to South Carolina last night. It's nice to be able to drive to the folk's house right after work and make it by bedtime. I have spent the day laying around and cooking with my mother. My sister will get here tomorrow. Since my sister just got a new job, she has to work Christmas Eve. So, we are celebrating Christmas this weekend and then we all head back home Sunday night/Monday morning. I will be spending Christmas Day with Ollie and his family. This Holiday break is much needed and greatly appreciated! Merry Christmas!!!

USPS, who needs them?

For some time now, I have been trying to think of a way to eliminate the United States Postal Service (USPS). With growing email traffic and the competitive alternatives in FedEX and UPS, there is very little that the USPS offers that others do not or could not. I am certain we have all had our moments with the less than exceptional service at the USPS. Come on now, why would they bend over backwards to offer legendary service? They get paid the same whether or not you walk in that door or go elsewhere. Don't get me wrong. There are always those postal workers that take care of the customer and even smile while they do it! But more often than not, I wonder if these people shouldn't have just stayed in bed. I know it is the holidays and their business has increased by leaps and bounds. That doesn't excuse slow service and no smiles. AND, why don't they have more reasonable hours?

Maybe my opinion is skewed because this is the only time of year that I go in there. Oh well, off to start my Christmas cards...

What is Trader Joe's?

So, I got an email from a friend of mine wanting to know what the heck Trader Joe's is. First, I am sad to hear that some have not yet experienced the joy of TJs. But if you don't care anything about food or cooking, then it wouldn't be a joy I guess.

Trader Joe's is an awesome grocery experience. They have unique delectables and tasty treats. And to make things even better, it is extremely inexpensive. I go once a month to 'stock up'. I love it so much you would think I had spent the day at an amusement park when I am done.

The final chapter of Heroes is on so I must pay attention.

Trader Joe's

In my area, the closest Trader Joe's is in Newport News. Why they don't open a store in Virginia Beach is beyond me! So, I am forced to travel for TJ goodies. I have a group of friends that meet the first Sunday of the month and travel across the water. Carpooling and making an event of it is our way of justifying the trips. I went again today and discovered the handy and fresh "Guacamole Kit". For less than you would pay for prepared guacamole, you get a cute little basket of avocadoes, tomatoes, pearl onions, garlic, jalapeno, and a lime. Mix it together and VOILA! You've got guacamole. I make this stuff all summer long but it never tasted this good. If you have one near by, I recommend you pick it up. What a yummy snack?!?!?

Now, I have to go buy more chips...

Inaugural Post

This is my first post to my new blog. Oo-la-la. What fun!

This is a good time to begin the blog-life: Christmas time, a new year on the horizon, and my favorite thing in the whole world - Presidential Election! Well, let's just hope I can keep it up-to-date. My blog history is less than exceptional...