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tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-164145992014-11-23T12:30:18.072-06:00Fertile GroundStacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-45419107222851150812014-11-18T09:52:00.000-06:002014-11-18T09:52:00.843-06:00The BagFour months into our new living arrangements, things appear to be going fairly smoothly. The kids alternate between the house and my apartment on a pretty regular schedule, and even though they stay with me four out of seven nights, Warren and I both see them everyday. I take them to school regardless of where they sleep, and he picks them up each day. There is a routine in place and everyone knows what to expect.

Whether or not things go smoothly seems to depend on the bag that we carry back and forth between abodes. I try and keep all of the school clothes in my possession so that they are regularly laundered. I also try and think ahead to soccer practice and consider the weather and whatever else might affect what needs to go in the bag. The kids are primarily concerned about whether or not their phones and chargers make it in the bag.

Sometimes we drop the bag off before school, sometimes I bring it at evening pick up depending on its contents and their importance.

There are many conversations that begin with, "WHY DIDN'T YOU PUT X IN THE BAG?!" Satchel normally starts these conversations. I firmly state that my filling of the bag is a favor and that ultimately it is up to him and his brother to consider what they need and make sure everything gets transported.

He loves it when I tell him this. As much as I love getting texts that plead, "Can you go by the apartment and get my X?"

This morning he was all emo about my failure to put his hat and gloves in the bag. Apparently, it was a statement on my love, or lack of love, for him.

When we stopped at the house to drop the bag off, we were running pretty close to bell time. I told Jiro to hurry hurry and get the bag inside. He ran in and ran out and despite being very concerned about being late, he presented his brother with the missing hat and gloves that sh etook the time to find.

Of course Satchel, emo to the core, was all, "I don't even want them now." But I could see him smiling and we both know that there is no question that Jiro loves his big brother and that he is the best little brother EVER.

I so hope Jiro stays this sweet once puberty hits.Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-33693011527977086642014-10-22T09:55:00.000-05:002014-10-22T10:08:02.938-05:00Amy's VisitOur friend, Amy, has been threatening to visit us in Memphis for the past several years. I am a regular visitor at her house in Nola, so it only seemed fitting that she let me play host for a change. She decided to come with her husband, her son, and her two dogs, so technically Warren got to play host as I couldn't house them all at the loft.

He's did some decorating in anticipation of their visit. The porch is all spiffed up and now there's a punching bag in what used to be the dining room.

They arrived on Warren's birthday, which was a crazy day. He and I spent the afternoon at the Cooper Young Regional Beerfest.

They should just go ahead and call it the Cooper Young Drunkfest. Oh my!

Also, Jiro was coming back in town after being at the beach all week with his buddy, Ray.

(How grown up is he??)

Speaking of grown up, look at this picture Amy took of me and Satch. His feet are the size of Warren's already and it won't be long before he is taller than us both!

Anyways, Amy and family arrived in the evening, and once Jiro returned, we had a late night birthday dinner at Huey's. Then on Sunday, we went downtown for breakfast and Beale Street Landing.

We had a very nice experience at the Arcade. I should probably do a full on review.

It is definitely a good choice for feeding hungry boys.

Look at the size of these plates!

After breakfast, we went over to check out the new playground at Beale Street Landing. The monkeys were cute about acting excited about a playground and playing with Leo. There was a time when playgrounds were vital to our existence.

After some more exploring, we split up for a bit. Amy and family went to the Zoo and I went to play soccer. Then we met up later at the Cove. (The boys had a pizza party and babysitter at Warren's house.)

Then, before they split town on Monday, I got them all to myself for a little bit. They came to see my loft, which Leo never wanted to leave mainly due to the long hallways and fun stairs. Then we had a nice chat replete with coffee and quiche at Tart.

It was good to see them, and nice to know that Team Oster could still come together to show everyone a good time.

Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-45055469478525816662014-09-29T11:35:00.001-05:002014-09-29T11:35:53.577-05:00Shelby Farms ParkWhen the kids were out of school a while back, I decided to take the day off too. It had been awhile since I got to spend the whole day with them, and they were desperately in need of some outdoor activity. I had been wanting to take Satsuki to the Shelby Farms dog park, so I thought adding in a little hike would make for a perfect morning.

Shannon and I ran the Wolf River Trail several times in preparation for Sylamore earlier this year and I thought I was pretty familiar with it. In my mind, the dog area was pretty close to where we started our runs.

There is a lot of construction going at the park, especially near Patriot Lake. It was very disorienting! The monkeys and I had to do a little unexpected loop to find the trail head, and by the time we were there, they were already kind of over the hiking portion of our day. But I kept them going!

I did allow a few breaks.

After a mile or so, we still hadn't found the dog park. We did find a ranger, though. He pretty much said we were nowhere near it. (Note to self, a six mile run with a friend is not at all like hiking with kids.) Since it was super hot, we decided to double back to the car. Then we drove around the perimeter of the park to the off leash area.

It was well worth the wait. Satsuki was stoked.

She didn't swim so much, but she ran around and around and had the best time ever.

The off leash area is super pretty and it was nice to just hang out for a bit.

We definitely have to go back.
Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-47461824639502896232014-09-05T09:39:00.002-05:002014-09-05T09:39:25.371-05:00Fairly AwesomeMy boys LOVE the fair.

Last year they got grounded and didn't get to go, so this year it was ON. Satchel actually ended up going on Monday with his friend, Theo. Yes, the 12 year olds were dropped off and left to their own devices. Satchel reported having fun for awhile, and then puking in a trash can. He complained that he was so sick that he didn't want to eat any of Theo's delicious looking Fried Oreos! He did manage to spend all $42 dollars he had in his pocket though.

This is Satchel in 2012.

Clearly, rides aren't his thing.

Jiro was extremely bummed that Satchel did not want to go with us on Wednesday, but I promised him we would have fun without him. And we did.

Jiro's buddy Ray was there with his mom, Mad, and the two of them literally ran from ride to ride.

Mad, who had been there about 45 minutes already, was pretty nauseous and hesitant to ride any more rides, but we got her on a few. I was actually enjoying the rides, and practiced being calm and letting the scary flow over me. Mad coped by screaming and praying to Jesus.

By the time we got to Crazy Mouse, Mad drew the line. I ride Crazy Mouse every year and this year would be no different. By now we had met up with another friend, Lily. I tried to tell her how scary the ride was, but she didn't believe me. I think this $6 photo sold to Lily's dad by the Crazy Mouse operators sums it up perfectly.

We obviously needed a little sugar to keep going.

And I insisted on at least one selfie.

Jiro said, "Awkwaaaard."

Check out Lily's awesome fashion, surely fashioned at this year's Rock-n-Romp Camp.

I love the way the fair looks at night, but by dark I was ready to go.

Moby Dick (below) is reportedly what made Satchel puke.

Those extra high flying swings are my new favorite.

Jiro agreed to leave once he had some Fried Oreos and lemonade. He wanted Satchel to be jealous, although he's too sweet for that. He of course asked soon after if he could take some home to him.

My sweet boy also made sure to thank me about hundred times on the way home. Although he did say that in a perfect world we would have gone two days earlier (Peyton from "Jessie") or two days later (R4). Both boys have actually been making a play to return tonight for R4 (or is it R5?), but I'm just not ready for that. Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-19607430393480391832014-09-04T10:30:00.002-05:002014-09-05T09:12:13.042-05:00Party CrasherLast Tuesday, my best friend, Marlinee, sent me a simple text: "What's the name of that pho place in New Orleans?" My response? "Who is going to New Orleans!" She was, and not only that, she was following it up with a weekend trip to the beach. It was her unofficial 25th high school reunion with her Murphy High pals from Mobile.

In true best friend fashion, she was sending me "Come join us" texts by Wednesday. By Friday, I was out of excuses for why I couldn't possibly go. On Saturday, I hit the road.

I arrived in Gulf Shores around 2:00pm in the afternoon and kicked my shoes off on the back deck.

Then I walked down to the beach and joined in on the fun.

Over the years, I had either met or heard tales of most of the people at the reunion, so I felt right at home. After chit chatting for a bit, I went to unload my car and see what was happening inside.

Max and Tally were making gumbo!

I washed my hands, and started peeling shrimp. Eventually everyone else came in from the beach, or the store, and we had ourselves a little party.

Tally's husband, Carl, made salad, and Stephanie doctored up the French bread, and we sat down to one of the best meals of my life.

Seriously, I am going to dream about Tally's gumbo for the rest of my life.

After dinner, we moved outside to play Cards Against Humanity.

Not to brag or anything, but I totally won.

We stayed up late talking and I went to bed so, so happy I'd made the drive. When I woke up, I was informed that Marlinee's parents were on their way. Even better, Chow was joining forces with Tally, who lived in Thailand for a few years, to make us all a Thai lunch.

I'm pretty sure this is what mornings are like in heaven.

Marlinee was concerned that Tally might take too long preparing his dish, but Chow came with hers all ready to go.

We snacked on Thai poppers and spring rolls while Tally worked his magic.

I'm telling you, he is magic.

Then, once again, we all gathered around the table to enjoy an amazing meal.

Once lunch was over and the dishes were done, we went out to the beach. The waves were amazing and we alternated between playing in them and admiring them.

There are no words for how happy I felt.

The best part? I still feel it.

Thanks to Marlinee for inviting me, all of the Murphy Panthers for making me feel so welcome, and to Warren for keeping an eye on our babies so I could go and not worry.Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-76227714467436366992014-08-19T11:57:00.000-05:002014-08-19T11:57:25.684-05:00Loft LifeLast month I moved to Cooper Young. I found a great apartment, er loft, that makes me feel like I am living downtown, but in Midtown. If that makes any sense.

It's very safe.

And kind of reminds me of our house. At least the kitchen does anyway.

Jiro has been my assistant decorator. He had the genius idea of putting the bunkbeds where a desk would normally go.

And he helped me hang all of the paintings. Well, the ones I was sure about.

And he helped fix the things that needed fixing.

Satchel was a little less enthusiastic about the loft, mainly because it didn't come with wifi and I didn't have a TV. But he slowly came around. He and Jiro found ways to entertain themselves.

(I took a turn too. It was actually quite fun.)

There has also been some reading and a lot of game playing.

Mancala is my favorite.

I am the undisputed champ of checkers. Connect Four is not my strong suit.

Loft life has its challenges. For one, we are all three sharing a bathroom.

And I am the head chef.

I pretty much exhausted my repertoire in the first week! (Hence our first tradition--Monday's at Moe's.)

Warren still cooks several nights a week, and I get to partake when I pick up the kids. And we've been doing family movie day/dinner out on Sundays.

Everyone seems to be pretty happy with the current arrangement. And the loft is slowly starting to feel like home.

My next door neighbor, who came to introduce herself last night and maybe ask that we keep it down a bit, will be happy to learn that I have purchased a TV and the cable/wifi is getting hooked up today.
Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-77585155312166563522014-08-10T13:58:00.000-05:002014-08-10T13:58:00.296-05:00RPCV Reunion in Taos, Part 4It was time for everyone to leave on Monday, so we spent the morning packing up and cleaning up. We had one final excursion to the house at the top of the hill. It's owned by the same guy that owns the house we stayed in, but it's way bigger. It would be perfect for our NEXT reunion! We hope to sway some more of our stage mates to come out in a couple of years.

It's still under construction, but is sure to be beautiful. It has a great view.

If we get a really good turn out, we can rent both houses!

We said our goodbyes and had more group picture of the kiddos.

It was so great to see everyone and have lots and lots of time to just hang out and talk. It is really crazy to think it's been 20 years since we all met. I love that we are still friends!

On the way out of town, I insisted we stop at Taos Outback for a slice of pizza. It was still as good as I remembered.

The kids loved it too. (Satchel remembered his previous visit, but not Jiro.)

We made a quick stop at a store to buy a couple of Mexican blankets, got a burrito to go from Guadalajara Grill, gassed up, and then finally hit the long road home.

I'm so glad we made the journey. Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-62866885890074552692014-08-09T13:07:00.000-05:002014-08-09T13:07:00.641-05:00RPCV Reunion in Taos, Part 3Sadly Dillon had to return to real life, so we started Sunday off by saying goodbye to him & Ethan.

Then we loaded up and headed out to Jeremy & Andrea's cabin on the mesa. It's off the grid and they go camping there about once a month.

We had a nice snack of watermelon and Jeremy's homemade kombucha.

Jeremy had enough country cups for everyone. I definitely prefer the taste of kombucha to palm wine!

Satchel, Jiro, and Bodhi started a game of Monopoly while the rest of us either hiked or hung out.

Then Amy came down with some mystery illness, probably from the altitude. It sucked, but also added to the nostalgia.

When she felt good enough to travel, we all headed out. She & John were going back to the house and the rest of us were going to the Mesa Brewery for beers and lunch. We were following them and Warren noticed something hanging down from the car. We called Jeremy, who was in the lead, and we all pulled over.

Then in the most Peace Corps moment of the weekend, Jeremy fixed the car with goat rubber, which he just happened to have on hand!

It was awesome.

Once they were fixed up, we commenced with beers and lunch. The Mesa Brewery is awesome. I will do a full DWM post on it soon.

Once fortified we headed to the Rio Grande for some tubing. The boys were super excited about this.

After an hour or so we headed back to the house to check on Amy, who was feeling a lot better. We had planned to go out to dinner in town, but everyone was worn out. Thankfully, Warren had thought ahead. He made fufu njama njama for everyone. Even the kids liked it!

More to come...Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-62317393749267468832014-08-08T12:34:00.000-05:002014-08-08T12:34:00.664-05:00RPCV Reunion in Taos, Part 2On Saturday, we had breakfast at the house then headed into the ski valley to do a hike up to Williams Lake. It kind of reminded me of the time we all hiked up Mt. Ngaoundere during training! Although in this case, the elevation was way more killer. (I am happy to report that since that first hike up Mt. Ngaoundere, I have gone more hikes than I can count, thanks to Warren.)

I got to ride in Dillon's convertible that he rented for the weekend. He didn't earn the nickname "Butter Mon" for nothing!

He also had a fancy watch that showed us our elevation and even told the time!

Photo op! Peace Corps dudes, past and future.

Because of our varying ages and abilities, we took lots of breaks and took our time getting up the mountain.

At the top is Williams Lake. It was sooooooooooo pretty. But not so good for swimming. (Elevation verified by Dillon's watch.)

It was good for wading and skipping rocks, though.

And it was a great spot for lounging.

And we of course needed to get a group photo. Amy asked some nice hikers to help us out.

And if that wasn't enough, we made the kids pose again near the sign.

It was really amazing how well they all got along. I never heard any fighting, not even from Satchel and Jiro.

The hike down was much easier, and we rewarded ourselves with beer and lunch at the Bavarian House.

The waitresses wore full "St. Paulie Girl" outfits and we were all amazed that there were no "wardrobe malfunctions." Our waitresses boobs were barely staying put. I can't believe no one took a picture. Anyways, makes me interested to see what Schweinhous in Overton Square will be like!

We were all super beat--Satsuki especially--after the hiking and beer, so we went back to the house to rest. Amy graciously offered to cook New Orleans style rice and beans for dinner. (A Cameroonian RPCV reunion would not be complete without rice and beans!)

After dinner, we all pretty much crashed! And there was tons of beer in the fridge to be had! What?!

More to come...
Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-77673338979169138922014-08-07T11:05:00.000-05:002014-08-07T11:05:00.595-05:00RPCV Reunion in Taos, Part 1Last Spring, or maybe the Spring before that, when I was visiting my Peace Corps pal, Amy, in New Orleans, we drunkenly decided to plan a Peace Corps reunion to mark twenty years. We didn't quite pull off our vision of getting our 30+ stage mates together in Nola, but thanks to our Peace Corps pal, Jeremy, we were able to reunite four families in Taos, New Mexico last week.

Warren and I, of course, decided to drive. It's not summer unless the majority of Team Oster takes a long ass road trip! But this one was extra special because we brought Satsuki along!

She was SO excited! She's never been anywhere outside of Midtown, with the exception of my mom's house in Germantown. I was worried she'd get carsick, but she didn't. She did great.

When we arrived in Taos, her new best friend, Eli, was waiting for her.

(The happier she is, the longer her tongue gets.)

Despite coming from all corners of the world (not really) we arrived within minutes of Amy & Dillon. We were all very impressed by the house Jeremy found us. It immediately felt like we were back in a volunteer house in Cameroon. Except of course for the fact that it had a hot tub, Viking range, super comfy beds & sofas, etc.

The kids--all boys!--immediately got in the hot tub.

The adults cracked open beers and started catching up.

Jeremy & Andrea had procured dinner for everyone and we had a lovely meal together.

There was more talking, drinking and hut tubbing to be done, but I think we all managed to get to sleep at a decent hour.

More to come...Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-13948071238631897382014-08-05T14:00:00.000-05:002014-08-05T14:00:01.070-05:00Vegas WeddingOnce all the camps were done, I had to jump on a plane for Tracey & Ronnie's wedding in Vegas. Gigi and I went together. Not only was it fun, it was one of the sweetest ceremonies ever.

We arrived carzy late on a Wednesday and then hit the ground running on Thursday to procure the marriage license, booze, and cake!

Ok that wasn't their cake, but how awesome is that?

Here's the real one.

Thankfully there was time for one quick foodie adventure. I took my mom to Viva Las Arepas to try one of my new favorite cuisines.

There was teeny tiny bit of video poker. None of us hit it rich, unfortunately. Then it was time to get ready for the wedding!

Tracey's friends did her make up in one room...

and Ronnie and I had drinks in the other.

Then we went down to the chapel...where I wasn't allowed to take any pictures!

The ceremony was sweet, funny, intense, and amazing. These two are too cute.

Then it was party time!

Congrats you two!

Our last day in Vegas was spent being hungover and a tad cranky, but Gigi and I managed to participate on a TV panel at the MGM Grand, eat lunch at one of Wolfgang Puck's restaurants, see the shark tanks at the Golden nugget and have a entertaining dinner with Tracey & Ronnie at Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse.

We squeezed a lot into those two days! I am super happy I made it out for the nuptials, and am even happier about having a new brother-in-law.Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-44336625597997328372014-08-04T15:59:00.000-05:002014-08-04T15:59:13.649-05:00More Boys of SummerThe question I heard for most of the summer was, "When are Santi & Enrique going to get here?"

They came for the first two weeks of July and we did our best to let them spend every second together.

They picked up right where they left off, which is what being best buddies is all about.

There were trips to the JCC...

Lots of sugary treats consumed...

Rock-n-Romp Camp and the formation of Deathpunch...

A brilliant performance at the Young Ave. Deli...

And more sleepovers and swimming at Mrs. Pam's than could be properly documented and squeezed into this post.

They definitely got spoiled rotten while they were together, and deservedly so.

Their last meal was at the Majestic followed by Maggie Moo's. Then it was hugs and promises to always do Rock-n-Romp Camp together.

The saddest part of this goodbye is that this time, their dad left too.

Best of luck to all of the Provencio boys. Memphis isn't the same without you. We hope to see you all soon!Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-23148732543929562802014-06-23T16:19:00.001-05:002014-06-23T16:19:11.162-05:00Boys of SummerSummer is flying by and I have been doing a poor job of documenting it.

Between soccer and baseball, I've had the boys in various camps. The first of which was Rhodes soccer camp. This is their third year.

I only made them do a half day, since it gets so hot, and they were lucky enough to get invited to go swimming after.

Well, one of them went swimming. Satchel insists he doesn't like swimming.

Then the boys had a week off to goof off and do whatever they wanted, which was mostly playing video games.

And more swimming.

With some sweet treats thrown in.

Then they each had a full week of camp. Satchel went to Bridges and Jiro went to cooking camp. It took Satchel a few days to get used to the action packed 8am-6pm schedule of Bridge Builders, but he ultimately he had a great week. Look, he even picked up trash!

Jiro had a GREAT week. He loved cooking with Liz and brought home yummy treats everyday.

Satchel seemed jealous to be missing out on the fun cooking camp, so I signed him and Jiro up for a class at Salud! Whole Foods' new cooking school over the weekend. It was great.

This week they are doing Sky Zone camp, which so far is getting rave reviews.

And there you have it!
Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-43903006943098629672014-06-05T12:31:00.002-05:002014-06-05T12:31:30.287-05:00Liberty SoccerSo, the summer session of the fledgling Midtown Soccer Academy kicked off Tuesday at a little place you may of heard of called the Liberty Bowl. Yep!

The kids (and parents) were all "OOOOOOOOH!" and "AAAAAAAAAAAH!" It was awesome.

The Academy was started by our buddy Seamus, with the help of former Man U superstar, Tony Posner. (I serve as the club's secretary.)

We are working with about 40 kids this summer on skill building. Seamus wants to get the players up to the ranks of the competitive kids out east ASAP. He focuses on the youngers (7-10).

Tony is working with the older boys (11-14).

I didn't get any good action shots, but you can see that the boys get a good work out! (Girls are welcome too, we just don't have but a few right now.)

Please note Satchel's perfectly coordinated outfit and gear.

And here is the beast looking quite angelic.

I'm really excited about this, and hope the monkeys are too! Midtown moms and dads rejoice--we won't have to drive out east to partake in the City's competitive soccer ranks!Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-69827390839780320512014-05-29T09:24:00.001-05:002014-06-23T15:57:03.783-05:00BaseballSo a few weeks ago, I picked up Jiro from a sleepover at Evergreen Presbyterian. His friend had baseball practice and I was a few minutes late and before I knew it, I had a baseball player.

The baseball coach is a friend, and just happened to be Jiro's first ever soccer coach. He did a flinch test with the kids to determine who would play catcher, and guess who passed with flying colors?

Guess who also had a home run his first time at bat?

Yup, Jiro. The coach is very much, "This kid's got natural talent!" Well, duh. Jiro is definitely my athlete.

It's been a pretty rainy season, so there have only been three games. Jiro hasn't single-handedly won them for his team, but he's held his own.

There's nothing cuter than him in his catcher's get up.

I've only managed one full game and part of another due to having my own soccer games scheduled at nearly the exact time each week. But, I am learning the lingo, and my short term memory is getting strengthened as I attempt to keep track of strikes and balls and outs.

Warren, who has always wanted a ball player, is thrilled. Now he just has to figure out how to get Satchel interested!

Update!

Six out of ten games were rained out, so baseball was a bit anti-climactic. Jiro had fun and they did manage to win their last game.

Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-11123238073661440242014-05-06T12:38:00.001-05:002014-05-06T12:42:04.354-05:00Jiro, Age 10This little cutie's birthday fell on the first day of TCAP testing. Kind of a bummer, but he took it in stride. Each morning he got up early to take a shower and help me with lunches so we would be on time.

Jiro wanted his birthday dinner to be at the Grand Buffet by his Gigi's house. He loves the personal hibachi service there. The whole family (minus Warren, who was in California all week for work) came and we had a lovely meal.

Present wise, he just wanted a game for the Xbox. I couldn't resist getting him a 5 lb. Gummy Bear after reading the reviews online. I have to say that biting into one is quite satisfying.

Basically once the ears and nose are gone, it becomes overwhelming.

Jiro's party was the following Saturday. He wanted his buddies to go see Spider-Man 2 with him and eat dinner at the Pizza Cafe. As an added bonus, I suggested we go to Sweet Noshings to load up on contraband. At Sweet Noshings you can get candy in bulk, and mix and match at will. Sort of. (There are different prices and they prefer you mix within prices per pound, but that was not happening with this group!)

It was a free for all!

Thankfully the owner was cool about it. I could see dollar signs in his eyes because this is what $35 worth of candy looks like!

We headed over to the movies and settled in. The boys were all quite content with their haul.

I had to laugh at Alex, who I sat next to. He had a Tootsie Pop AND Sugar Daddy in ONE hand while his other hand stayed planted in the popcorn. (That happened after this picture was taken.)

The boys all liked the movie but agreed that there was TOO MUCH KISSING! After the movie went back across the street to the Pizza Cafe.

After dinner, we went back to the house. The boys had a brief Nerf War outside, then commenced playing Xbox. In the morning, I sent them all to the park for some mandatory sunshine, fed them breakfast burritos, and then took them home.

When Warren returned later that evening, we ate the awesome chocolate strawberry cake my friend, Launa, made. And with that, we concluded birthday season!Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-84128215482465849602014-04-25T10:54:00.001-05:002014-04-25T10:54:37.952-05:00Satchel, Age 12I have a freaking 12 year old! he's been acting like it for awhile so that mitigates it a bit. He is very much 12 and I will say that 12 is not my favorite. He still has moments of utter sweetness and delight, but wow, yeah. Puberty. Not ready!

We started his birthday a bit early since we all had Good Friday off. He really wanted to go to Flight and try the molten cake. As a bonus, he also had this giant hamburger featuring a brick of fried mozarella cheese.

I love that he is a foodie. He described the molten cake as "life changing."

The best thing to come out of the meal (for me) is his now regular use of the word "charcuterie."

After lunch I dragged him and Jiro to the Brooks for the Dali exhibit. I don't think he wanted to admit that he enjoyed it.

Saturday he was super grumpy and had to be sent home from the opening of the awesome new bike gate in Overton Park. Thankfully, Jiro was a trooper.

Before he left, I showed him my Christmas gift to the family. His response, "OMG that is SO embarrassing. Can you get my name taken off?"

Warren and Jiro continued on to a party and Satchel took a nap. When he woke up, the two of us had a lovely afternoon that included lunch at Swanky's and a shopping trip to Sports Authority. Despite not being too sporty, that is where he prefers to do his shopping. The uniform of choice for 12 year olds? Anything Nike on top, Under Armour shorts and Nike "elites" (which are socks), and Nike shoes. (Not sure how Under Armour dethroned Nike in the shorts department? The tween/teen girls/women are ALL about the Nike shorts.)

He wanted a new hoodie, but we couldn't find one in an acceptable brand. I was so like that at age 12.

I have to say, he looks pretty cute.

As you can see above, we spent Sunday with family, celebrating his birthday with a little egg hunting. Then he was FINALLY allowed to go to Game Stop and spend his birthday money AND the Christmas money he's been saving on an XBox. His life is now complete! (Or so he says.)

Oh, and there is nothing wrong with his knee. He wears that to cover up his birthmark.

We attempted a nice family dinner on Monday, his actual birthday, to culminate the festivities, but it was a total fail.

It's just going to be one day at a time around here for awhile.

Happy birthday to my beautiful boy. I'm going to do my best to weather the puberty storm along with him!Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-54098044994538670192014-04-15T15:56:00.000-05:002014-04-21T12:23:27.779-05:0042It's birthday season in our house as three out of the four of us have April birthdays. Mine is first and I turned 42, which apparently is the best number ever, and the meaning of life.

When you get to be my age, you buy your own birthday presents. I went with a new iPhone and a box of Raw Girls food including super yummy salads, quinoa burgers, taco salad and juices!

I started the celebrations a few days early. My weekly Tuesday night with the ladies was dedicated to my birthday. Gifts included bourbon and a soccer gift certificate. They know me well!

Wednesday we had a lovely extended family dinner at Skewer, followed by ice cream at Ben & Jerry's. Here is a rare photo of Tracey & I together.

My meal was pretty too.

Here's me and my mom, while I tried to teach her to take a selfie.

Thursday I rested up for the actual day, which was Friday. Naturally, I took the day off to shop and daydrink with my birthday twin, Colleen. This was our third year celebrating this way!

In addition to multiple whiskey smashes at Hog & Hominy, we also had the buffalo pig tails. Yum!

The crispies on top are sliced pig ears. It was weird, but really, really tasty.

After shopping and thoroughly catching up, I left Colleen to meet up with my BFF Marlinee at Second Line.

A few others joined in and this is the only other picture fit for public consumption. (Max and I were recreating a picture of he and Marlinee on their first date.)

Saturday was the season opener of Rock-n-Romp at Mud Island. It wasn't really birthday related, but thanks to the power of Facebook, I received many salutations. And Central BBQ! And Tom's Tiny Kitchen pimento cheese!

Chip snapped this pic of me and my newspaper husband, Richard.]

And my pal Julie got artsy with this one...(I borrowed Jiro's sunglasses.)

Saturday evening, I went to a cookout compliments of Highballers Julie & Lauren. We had a Mexican fiesta theme and it was super fun. Tee not only prepared a feast, he also played bartender.

The more Highballs that get involved, the longer the party lasts. (It was also Weetie's birthday celebration!) We had a great time enjoying a perfect spring night.

The birthday celebrations concluded on Sunday, with Memfeast. It was held on Broad Avenue and guests got to choose the design for the water tower. It was amazing! There was SO much food.

Warren, who spent the day slaving in the yard, was especially happy!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to wish me a happy birthday either in person, on Facebook, by email, text or phone call. I feel very loved!Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-59801617914952767822014-03-31T13:39:00.001-05:002014-03-31T13:39:56.169-05:00Highballs Win!It took three seasons, but we finally made it all the way to the top! The Highballs were undefeated all season long, but finished second due to goal differential. So making it to the tournament and facing off against the Lunachicks, who we tied in the first round, was BIG. It was a great game--very competitive--but we pulled through and won 5-3.

We did a lot of practicing this season and finally started looking like a team. Everyone improved!

And we still know how to have the most fun too!Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-66822481538774557562014-03-26T09:00:00.000-05:002014-03-26T09:00:05.737-05:00Spring Break in Nola (Part 4)I feel like our last day in Nola was spent driving in circles. I know my way around the city pretty well, but I have come to realize I really only know certain parts.

Anyway, our goal for the day was to hit the Nike Outlet store. (Yes, really.) Sutton's final request was a new pair of Nike shorts and Satchel wanted a new pair of "Elites." (Elites are the cool socks.) Traveling with an 9, 11 and 14 year old is a multi-layered challenge! Even just having to listen to their music in the car was a challenge!

I planned to take us to The Camellia Grill for breakfast/lunch before shopping, since I had to learn over and over that hungry children are cranky children, but in deciding to take Canal to Carrolton, we ended up at the Nike store first. Sutton didn't find the shorts she wanted, but Satchel got two pairs of socks and Jiro got two new t-shirts. By the time we got to the Camellia Grill, there was a line and the kids once again whined about waiting. So I said, "Fine, we will go where I want to go." I headed down St. Charles to Magazine to Juan's Flying Burrito. It's really not that close to where we were, but I really wanted to go there. Pretty sure their mid-city location might have been a bit closer. Oh well. (Full review to come.)

It was busy too and had a wait, but we managed to get a table out back on the patio, which I did not know existed. Once everyone was fed, we were ready to go forth. By now Sutton had identified a running store on the opposit end of Magazine that sold the shorts she wanted, so we headed that way. Our mission was successful and we were told we missed seeing Will Ferrell by ten minutes. This fact alone totally excited the kids.

Our next stop was supposed to be Audubon Park to climb trees, but I never really found a good spot. Cousin Nancy had told me about the butterfly loop, but I couldn't find it. So, I just decided to take us back to City Park. It was a lot further away than I thought! Regardless, we made it, and had a great time in the sculpture garden.

We had an afternoon snack of beignets and iced coffee at Morning Call in the park, which is supposedly the same, but different from, Cafe du Monde.

Then the kids somehow talked me into going on a paddleboat.

It was more work than we thought paddling around, but it was also lovely.

Jiro was the stern and did a good job of navigating.

Next time I think I'll splurge on one of these instead!

By the time we were done paddling I was ready for a nap! Since we were super close to cousin Richard's house where we were having dinner, I opted to nap in the car while the kids ran around and climbed trees. I never actually napped, but I did get a few minutes of much needed quiet!!

We met up with Dick & Nancy at Richard & Beth's where we celebrated cousin Isabel's 12th birthday with a steak dinner. It was great to catch up with Richard & Beth. Sutton & the monkeys had fun seeing cousins their own age.

Our last night in the apartment was super quiet. Everyone went into their own room and did their own thing. It was a pretty action packed week so I am sure we all needed some serious downtime and alone time.

We left Friday morning after a quick stop at Dorgnac's for some Delaware Punch. (Jiro named his twelve pack "Billy.") I still had several places where I wanted to eat, but the kids really wanted to hit the road. We made it home in a record breaking 5 hours!

Overall it was a great trip, but definitely the kind of vacation that you need a vacation to recover from! It was lovely to come home to a clean house (Thanks, Warren!) and take a nap in my own bed!Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-73402806080537881432014-03-25T08:00:00.000-05:002014-03-25T08:00:03.839-05:00Spring Break in Nola (Part 3)On Wednesday we started our day of at Liuzza's by the Track. I had never been before and was super excited.

Full review to come, but here is a shot of their signature bbq shrimp po-boy. It was awesome. But I had to declare myself fully shrimped out once I was done with it. (I only made it half way through.)

And since we were so close to the track, we hopped on over to catch a few races. My grandfather always took me and my sisters when we were kids, so I was REALLY excited to take the monkeys.

The first race only had three horses, so we bet on them all.

As you can see, there were some pretty high stakes!

The second race had five horses, so again we bet on all five! That brought our total winnings to $1.60 before Team Marlinee decided it was time to go. My kids really wanted to be with her kids 24/7, so I dutifully cashed in my winnings and left, but I wish we would have stayed longer.

We went over to City Park to let the kids run around for awhile and re-visit the sight of Sutton's accident. (When we went 5 years ago, she chipped her tooth on this thing and we spent the afternoon having it reattached!)

After getting enough fresh air, we went over to Angelo Brocato's for some spumoni. (More on this later!) This was suggested by my mom after we all went crazy for the spumoni at Pete & Sam's before leaving Memphis.

After our treat, we headed back to the apartment for some serious napping. We probably should have all just stayed in bed and ordered in for food, but since it was our last night together (Team Marlinee was leaving Thursday) we rallied for one last big dinner at Casmento's. Only Casamento's closed at 2:00pm. Undeterred we headed over to Pascal's Manale. Only they had a huge wait for a party of ten. Due to severe behavior issues with Satchel, I decided to take my three charges elsewhere.

It's kind of a blur, but we somehow ended up at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen. I tried to take us to Camelia Grill as Jiro had been begging to go, but Satchel & Sutton were pushing for pasta. (Sutton told me she was craving Olive Garden, and that was our only almost fight! Ha! I hope that there isn't even one in New Orleans.) Jiro decided to take one for the team after I promised to take us back to Camelia Grill for breakfast. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen is nothing special, but I got everyone fed and refocused on being cool. Thrilled by the behavior improvement I agreed to go back across the street to Cold Stone Creamery.

Yes, I let them have ice cream twice time in one day. The CFO signed off on it.

Back at the apartment I ended up watching South Pacific with my cousins and the monkeys and Sutton watched Catching Fire on Cousin Dick's iPad.

A little screen time was what we all needed, I guess.

The next morning Team Marlinee hit the road and I was again tasked with entertaining the children on my own. (It was really nice to be with Team Marlinee and be on task all of the time! She had everything all planned out for us.)

Stay tuned...Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-44355505340354084222014-03-24T09:00:00.000-05:002014-03-24T09:00:09.497-05:00Spring Break in Nola (Part 2)On Tuesday we decided to stay close to home. The plan was to walk to Mother's and then go to the Aquarium. Well, of course it was raining, so back in the car. (I am used to walking everywhere in Nola, which is a lot easier when it is just me.)

Anyways, Mother's is always a safe bet for a good meal. It was good to fill everyone's tummies before our action packed day, and also very nice to easily find a table for ten.

Yes, that is the monkeys eating breakfast. I always get the shrimp po-boy and gumbo, natch. (Full review later.)

(Mother's is also where I created my famous "Gumbo dance" in 1994.)

After brunch, we headed over to the Aquarium of the Americas.

It's been several years since we went and while it is still lovely and interested the kids, I felt like it got smaller. Maybe because the kids are so much bigger? We were in and out in about thirty minutes, which seemed like a waste considering how expensive it is to get in.

But, there were lots of cool things to see! And now we know all about the reproductive organs of a jellyfish!

It had stopped raining outside so I forced everyone to walk along the river and down to the French Market.

After a couple of hours, everyone was begging to go home. We dropped off the boys and then me, Marlinee, Apiranee and Sutton went on a girls only shopping trip down Magazine Street. While out we accomplished Sutton's second goal--procuring a Vineyard Vines t-shirt. We also picked up a couple of margaritas at Juan's as well as some burritos for the big kids. Then we made a quick trip through Popeye's to get chicken for the little kids.

Back at the apartment we made sure everyone was fed, gave the older kids a two hour pass to go do whatever they wanted, and then the adults went out for our one big dinner of the trip. It was hard to decide, but we chose Restaurant R'evolution. We couldn't get a last minute reservation so we high-tailed it over early to get a table in the bar area.

The restaurant was awesome: fantastic menu, great service, amazing ambiance. We were in heaven. I really loved the Espresso-crusted Venison Carpaccio, but I think the winning dish was the Death by Gumbo. It was a roasted quail that had been deboned and stuffed with andouille and oysters and other gumbo delights. The servers brought it over in a bowl and then poured file over it. When you cut into it, all of the gumbo madness came out.

We were joined after dinner by Memphis friends Brad & Natalie. After a few drinks, we were invited to Brad's family's apartment that overlooks Jackson Square. The weather was still amazing so we sat on the balcony and chatted until the clock struck twelve and it was time to go back home.

I can't wait to go back to Nola and make a proper reservation at R'evolution!

Stay tuned for more...Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-70147915370876341142014-03-21T10:47:00.001-05:002014-04-03T10:03:53.171-05:00Spring Break in Nola (Part 1)For spring break, the monkeys, my niece and I headed to New Orleans. We met up with my buddy, Marlinee, her hubs, and their four kids. For those of you counting, that is 3 adults and 7 kids! Quite a change from my past few visits to Nola! We all stayed at my cousin's apartment in the CBD so it was extra fun.

Team Marlinee arrived on Friday and we rolled in Saturday around 6:30pm. We had a 7:00pm dinner reservation at the High Hat Cafe, so I literally pulled up to the apartment, unloaded the kids and luggage, parked the car and hailed a taxi.

This was the first order of business.

The owners of the High Hat hail from Memphis, so you may recognize this.

I thought for sure it used to be on Main Street, but Facebook crowdsourcing said Linden. Regardless, the High Hat was a great place for our first meal. The service was outstanding!! I had gumbo and a shrimp po-boy, which is my standard fare in Nola. The kids ate grilled cheese sandwiches because they were upset about the $15 cab fare. (Jiro was officially Spring Break CFO!)

Between courses, Marlinee entertained us.

(I enjoyed my dinner, but clearly the fancier fare on the menu is what makes High Hat a must visit. I was very jealous of Max and Marlinee's plates of pasta and scallops, although Joseph said he "won" dinner with his pork plate.)

After dinner we took another taxi (our last) back to the apartment and settled in. Team Marlinee soon returned and the kids all settled in with their various electronics. (We had two Wii-U's, a laptop, multiple iPhones and iPads.) Since everyone was getting along so well, the adults decided to stroll around the corner to the Roosevelt and have a night cap at the Sazerac Bar.

Sunday morning we walked to Cafe Beignet in the Quarter for breakfast. By this time, Satchel decided he wanted to see how long it would take to make me mad. You know, just for fun. I interpreted this to mean he was really hungry and did not let him break me! Everyone was all smiles after eating and we headed back to the cars for our main activity of the day--touring the "Brad Pitt" houses in the Ninth ward.

Marlinee made sure everyone was getting a good understanding of what happened during Katrina, and we enjoyed strolling around the neighborhood for awhile.

We agreed that we all need a house with a party roof, whether hurricanes came to Memphis or not.

Next we went to the Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum. It was really well put togther.

We had one final stop at the House of Dance & Feathers, which is a Mardi Gras Indian S & P Club Cultural Education Center.

Then we headed back over the bridge to the Bywater. Since my favorite popsicle place, Meltdown, is on the way, we stopped for a quick treat. (The owner moved the store from the Quarter last fall. And yes, she totally knows me because I never miss visiting her when I am in town!) Salted caramel is still the favorite! (Here's an old review.)

From there we headed a few blocks over to Amy's house to visit with her family and check out the newly opened Bywater section of Crescent Park. The kids were anxious to go to the park, so we sent them over and spent some time chatting at Amy's house. When we met up with them an hour later, they were sorely disappointed. When I say "park" they hear "playground"! But trust me, it is lovely--especially for walking or picnicking.

We also learned that beignets and popsicles are not enough food to keep this crew going all day. I mean look at the size of these two!

Luckily my second favorite Bywater locale, Pizza Delicious, is adjacent to the park. (I reviewed it here!)

After dinner we were all pretty worn out. The evening was spent relaxing back at the apartment. I did manage to sneak out for one drink with Amy & John at my favorite watering hole, Bar Tonique.

Monday was Swamp Tour day! I have been to Nola a million times but never once I have I been on a swamp tour. I was pretty excited. We filled a cooler and got sandwiches to go from the restaurant downstairs, oddly named The Store and headed to La Place. Or Hammond. I don't know, I just followed Max's minivan to Cajun Swamp Tours.

We had a short wait, which just enough time for a picnic.

And staged photos.

The swamp itself was quite picturesque, and we had pefect weather.

At 2:15pm we loaded onto a large pontoon boat with a very chatty and friendly guide named Brandon. He brought along some critters to keep us company between alligator sightings.

Don't worry, the nutria above is stuffed!

After the tour, Team Marlinee decided to hit the Whole Foods in Metairie so Max could make dinner for the kids. I made a detour to Cold Stone Creamery since it was Sutton's only request.

Back at the apartment we did a little resting and got the kids fed. (Thanks, Max!)

The adults headed uptown to Lilette. Only once we got there, Marlinee worried we were under dressed, so we went next door to The Bouligny Tavern, which is the sister restaurant. The weather was grand, so we sat outside. It was a little dark to read the menu, and these two immediately pulled out their flashlight apps.

(I was hoping for a monocle.) The food was good, but we definitely did not eat enough of it!

After dinner we went by the Bulldog for more patio sitting and a night cap.

Stay tuned for more Nola action...Stacey Greenberghttp://email@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-56506630313372061242014-03-03T14:44:00.000-06:002014-03-03T14:59:47.971-06:00The MonkeysPlaying catch up on the monkey action...

Satchel went to his middle school dance. I suggested having some friends come over so they could go together. It was super cute watching them get ready. Satchel would not take any advice from his parents and said, "I'm not getting styled by people who lived in the 1900's." So he wore what he always wears when het gets dressed up. (He did wait to debut his new shoes at the dance.)

Even though he went with friends, he did officially have a date. And now he officially has a girlfriend. (As far as I can tell, they talk at school and text each other in a group text and post on each other's Instagram feeds. Pretty innocent.) He even went so far as to get her Valentine's candy. He was too embarrassed to actually enter to pink aisles at Target so Jiro and I had to do his bidding.

Even though Satch has a girlfriend, Jiro says I'm still his girl. If Satsuki sits too close to me, he will come in and say, "Move over, that's my girl." I love it.

But as you can see, Jiro & Satsuki definitely have their own thing going on.

Cute, right?

We also survived our first science project. It was one day late, which meant it didn't actually get entered into the Science Fair. That didn't suck at all. Nope.

Oh, and Satchel also started eating spaghetti tacos. I thought he made it up, but he says it is from iCarly!

And that's about it on my cute little monkeys.

Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com:blogger.com,1999:blog-16414599.post-28038451659943109942014-02-25T15:18:00.001-06:002014-02-25T15:18:14.501-06:00O35 Men's LeagueI guess it was inevitable...with all the kids and moms playing soccer at Greenfield, the dudes needed to get in on the action. The husbands and brothers and friends of the O35 ladies, including our very own Warren, kicked off their season last Friday night at Greenfield.

Warren plays for the Widowmakers Futball Club, but hasn't gotten an official jersey yet. He made his own at home with duct tape!

His teammates include a few other Highball significant others, which is nice.

He was pretty excited, but not nearly as excited as me and the other O35 women! It was so much fun to watch for a change! We may have gotten a little carried away.

Stacey Greenberghttp://firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
11 Pictures of Deadly Animals Snuggling with People
46 Perfectly Timed Photos You'll Have to Look Twice to Understand.
When Selfies Go Wrong
21 Plastic Surgery Disasters
The Rolls-Royce Even Millionaires Can't Touch
27 Russian Dating Site Members You Don't Want to Mail Order
10 Of The Most Fascinating Snake Facts
15 Facts You Didn't Know About SpongeBob SquarePants
16 People Fortunately Saved from Their Horrible Tattoos
Top 5 Fastest Planes Ever Built
Scientists Solve the Mystery of 'Melting' Starfish
New Fat Burner Takes GNC by Storm
22 Maniacs Who Took It Too Far
25 Cats Sleeping In The Most Ridiculous Positions
10 Disasters That Terrified Us
20 Celebrities You May Not Have Known Are Gay
AHHH! 13 Bone Chilling Pictures of Horrifying Hell Beasts
Doctors Inject HIV Into Dying Girl: You'll Be Glad They Did
15 DIY Projects for Your Man Cave
5 Smartest People Ever
Wolf Pack: The Coolest Dog Walker You'll Ever See
These 11 Animals Would Eat You Whole If They Were Not Already Extinct
The 17 Dumbest People on Facebook
The 10 Largest Ships Ever Built
18 Cute Girls Gone Ugly
9 Things People Shouldn't Be Able to Do in Restaurants
What This Woman Does with a Single Feather Will Make You Believe in Magic
10 Most Advanced Jet Fighters Today
Top 10 "Useless" Organs
The Men and Women Who Live Off The Grid

subset: commoncrawl


text: In the course of a new research project, we've been digging through some old studies of New Hampshire's education system. These earlier analyses help provide historical context for the public policy discussions the state tends to revisit time and again. And this kind of stroll through the archives also reminds you that many of the challenges New Hampshire is now facing aren't necessarily new.


text:
The real war is just beginning.
North Africa Is the New Afghanistan
Daniel Greenfield, a Shillman Journalism Fellow at the Freedom Center, is a New York writer focusing on radical Islam. He is completing a book on the international challenges America faces in the 21st century.
The World's Oldest Sickness
9/11 Sacrilege
Joseph Massad at UCLA: Gay-Bashing 101
Muslim Europe – by Jamie Glazov
Jamie Glazov is Frontpage Magazine's editor. He holds a Ph.D. in History with a specialty in Russian, U.S. and Canadian foreign policy. He is the author of the critically acclaimed and best-selling, United in Hate: The Left's Romance with Tyranny and Terror. His new book is High Noon For America. He is the host of Frontpage's television show, The Glazov Gang, and he can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com. Visit his site at JamieGlazov.com.


text:
November 24, 2014
Senate lawmakers have passed a bill that would provide financial incentives to companies that convert coal to cleaner burning fuels.
House lawmakers have refused to take part in a special legislative session where the issue is being discussed, so it appears unlikely that the measure has a chance of becoming law.
The energy bill and other initiatives on the agenda would have to be approved by both the Senate and House and signed by Governor
Fletcher to become law.
The energy bill passed 34-to-one.
The Senate also passing a bill that would ban domestic partner benefits at state universities. But the passage might be useless because it needs to get through both houses of the assembly before heading to Governor Fletcher's office.
Democratic lawmakers say Governor Fletcher's decision to call them back to Frankfort was unnecessary and too costly to be justified. They
adjourned without taking any action shortly after the session began
Click Here to access the online Public Inspection File
Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or email@example.com.


text:
GreatSchools Rating
Teacher quality
Principal leadership
Parent involvement
This school is behind on the educational level. My 4th grader was an honor roll student here last year; however when we have to transfer her to another school, that honor roll won't mean anything. On average the learning level is a grade behind the rest of the district! Thank you Mr. Busch.
I have a child at walnut grove and we just attended the winter program and it was so exciting. I really enjoyed it and my son did as well. I like walnut grove and i think it is a great school but some of the children are out of hand. Parent participation is a must and more of it will make a big difference.
The school test scores might not be the greatest but I can assure you the staff at walnut grove are commited to making sure your child reaches thier learning goal. And some schools are more worried about how thier image is viewed.
My daughter went to Walnut Grove for four years of her elementary education and I think they did a great job. She was involved in the orchestra and other extras. Teachers were always helpful and very attentive. We will miss everyone as we venture off into middle school land.
The way the school is organized is horrible. Plays and special events are not organized at all and it is chaotic with 1000 people inside a gymnasium fit to hold 200. Times and dates of special events are also changed continuously.
Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.
The Community Rating is the school's average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.
1248 North Florissant Rd
Ferguson, MO 63135
Phone: (314) 524-8922
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text:
Photo Galleries
Spring Picnic 2014
Our residents, families, and faculty enjoyed good weather and good food at this year's picnic.
ACP Competition
Congratulations to our 2014 ACP team!
Holiday Party 2013
On Friday December 13, 2013 the Internal Medicine Residency program hosted their traditional...
Spring Picnic 2013
Our Residents gathered for an afternoon of food, fun, volleyball, and more!
Resident Graduation 2013
Congratulations to our Graduating Residents
Bowling 2012
Photos from the Residency bowling outing
Holiday Party 2012
Photos from the Medical Residency Department's annual holiday party.
Holiday Party 2011
The 2011 Medical Residency Holiday Party
Fall Party 2011
Residents and attendings from the Department of Medicine gathered at the program director Dr....
Doctor's Dilemma
The Doctor's Dilemma team celebrates their victory with the program directory, Dr. Sapna Kuehl.
International Day 2011 & 2012
At International Day, residents celebrated their home cultures with food, presentations, and...
Spring Picnic 2011
Our annual spring picnic features good food, great friends, and a friendly game of volleyball.


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text: This is an intensive eight-session writing class. Each student is expected to write approximately 2,000 – 7,000 words a week and produce a portfolio of 2 – 5 short stories. During the first four weeks students plot short stories and write them to completion. The second half of the class is devoted to editing and revising one story from the student's portfolio. Students will learn to edit their own work and to receive and give constructive criticism. At the end of class students submit their polished stories to literary or genre markets.


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Eddie Vedder @ Comerica TheatreEddie Vedder lists his tools. In the booklet handed out to concertgoers at last night's packed performance, the Pearl Jam frontman laid out a detailed list of gear he'd be using during the evening: guitars, ukuleles, amplifiers, a modified kick drum made from a Coron ... More >>
The Swell Season's Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova Carry on a Tradition of Music-Making Exes
By Brendan Joel Kelley Last week I blogged here about the film Once, starring the Frames' Glen Hansard and Czech pianist Markéta Irglová. Apparently, the New York Times and myself aren't the only fans of the film, which is pretty much a musical about two talented people who express their mutual a ... More >>
I don't ordinarily go in for romantic movies, but I made an exception last night to see Once, the Irish film starring the Frames' frontman Glen Hansard. The film, which is a musical of sorts, with Hansard writing and performing songs with Czech pianist Marketa Irglova, won the World Cinema Audience ... More >>


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Photos and Description of this 3 bedroom holiday condo in Costa Adeje - Adeje Park, Costa Adeje
3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms Ensuite, 2 Minutes Walking To The Beach
This self-catering luxury villa has just about everything you could wish for.
It is beautifully furnished, to a high standard has spectacular sea views.
The Property includes , a 2103 Mercedes Benz 'A' Class, 5 doors, with all extras,which can be enjoyed all the stay, free of charge
Yet remains conveniently close to all amenities in the friendly town of La Caleta.
All bedrooms have air conditioning to keep you cool at night.
Situated just a few miles along the cost from Playa de las Americas, the small fishing village of La Caleta has in more recent years seen a boom in Hotel developments (such as the Sheraton La Caleta & the Costa Adeje Palace) and upmarket private developments however the beautiful harbour and heart of the fishing village has been relatively untouched.
The harbour and the real La Caleta. Here we wondered along the sea front passing the many quality fish restaurants where the local catches are prepared, cooked and served for you in traditional Canarian style.
The villa stands on a considerable plot of landscaped and patio gardens with a large patio terrace
The Town House has 2 levels, 3 bedrooms, suitable for 6 persons. There are 3 bathrooms.
2 bedrooms are fitted with 1 double bed each, and the third bed dorm is fitted with 2 single beds,all with wardrobes.
All Bedrooms has a en-suite Bathroom, Main Bedroom has a large Balcony
The terrace is very pleasant, with sun all afternoon, and marvellous sea views. The lounge is tastefully furnished with 2 nice sofas( 01 sofa, 01 sofa bed), 3D TV,with large amount of 3D movies, Satellite dish (International channels), WIFI, Dinning area.
The separate kitchen is fully equipped with oven, induction/ceramic hob, fridge/freezer, microwave and dishwasher, boiler, coffee machine, Washing machine and ironing facilities.
This is a wonderful Town House, a pleasant, relaxing and high quality holidays in Costa Adeje.
There is 03 Swimming Pool on Community area facilities, 01 Heated Pool, 01 Pool with Waterfall and 01 kid´s Pool with free access to sunbeds and umbrellas, there is a Giant Chess as well for those who like smart and big games.
The Underground private Garage gives you direct access to Living-room´s Villas through an stairway.
- Suitability:
- Long-term Renters Welcome
- children welcome
- limited accessibility
- non smoking only
- pets not allowed


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You may live without water for a few days and without food for a few weeks. But without air, you will suffer brain damage within a few minutes and die within approximately 6 minutes. Respiratory Therapists, also known as respiratory care practitioners, evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders.
In evaluating patients, therapists test the capacity of the lungs and analyze the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration and pH, (a measure of the acidity or alkalinity level) of the blood. To measure lung capacity, therapists have patients breathe into an instrument that measures the volume and flow of air during inhalation and exhalation. Comparing the reading with the norm for the patient's age, height, weight, and sex, the respiratory therapist can determine whether lung deficiencies exist. To analyze oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels, patients' therapists take an arterial blood sample, measure it in a special gas analyzer, and relay the results to patients' physician.
Respiratory therapists treat all types and ages of patients, from the premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed to elderly people whose lungs are diseased. They provide temporary relief to patients with chronic asthma or emphysema and emergency care for heart failure, stroke, drowning, or shock victims. Respiratory therapist commonly use a nasal cannula on a patient and set the oxygen flow at the level prescribed by a physician to increase the patient's oxygen concentration. Therapists also connect patients who cannot breathe on their own to ventilators; these deliver pressurized air into the lungs. They insert a tube into a patient's trachea, or windpipe; connect the tube to the ventilator; set and monitor the rate, volume, and oxygen concentration of the air entering and leaving the patient's lungs. Therapists then regularly monitor the patients and check the equipment for proper mechanical function. If the patient appears to be having difficulty or if the oxygen, carbon dioxide, or pH level of the blood is abnormal, they change the ventilator setting according to the patient's needs and doctor's order.
In home care, nursing homes or extended care facilities, therapists teach patients and their families to use home care ventilators and other life support systems. They check on the patient, inspect and clean equipment and ensure its proper function. Emergency visits are made if problems arise.
Respiratory therapists perform chest physiotherapy on patient to remove mucus from their lungs to make it easier for them to breathe. For example, during surgery, anesthesia affects the patients respiration and airways, so this treatment may be prescribed to help get the patient's lungs back to normal and prevent congestion. Chest physiotherapy is done on patients suffering from lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis bronchitis or pneumonia. Secretions collect in the lung and need removal. Therapists place patients in specific positions and perform procedures to help drain the secretions and instruct patients how to cough effectively.
Respiratory therapists administer aerosol medications. This is medicine that forms a mist to be inhaled. They train patients how to inhale the aerosol properly to assure its maximum effectiveness. There are many other specially areas therapist work in like hyperbaric and sleep medicine laboratories.
Therapists may have other duties including keeping records of the materials used and charges to patients, patient assessment and family education. Some therapists teach or supervise other respiratory care or medical personnel.
Respiratory therapists generally work a 40-hour week. Because hospitals operate around the clock, therapists may work evenings, nights, or weekends. They must be able to spend long periods standing and walking between patients' rooms. In an emergency, they work under a great amount of stress. Gases used by respiratory therapists can be potentially hazardous because they are used and stored under pressure. Therapists learn safety precautions, maintenance and testing of equipment to minimize any risk of injury.
As with many health occupations respiratory therapists run a risk of catching infectious diseases. Careful adherence to proper procedures, like hand washing, minimizes the risk.


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Baltimore, MD, US
Mostly Cloudy
44°F, Windchill: 40°F
Wind: 7 mph SW
Humidity: 34%
Visibility: 0 mi
Preasure: 30.2 in falling
Sunrise: 6:56 am
Sunset: 4:45 pm
44°F, Windchill: 40°F
Wind: 7 mph SW
Humidity: 34%
Visibility: 0 mi
Preasure: 30.2 in falling
Sunrise: 6:56 am
Sunset: 4:45 pm
Partly Cloudy
Hi: 54°F, Low: 48°F
Hi: 54°F, Low: 48°F
AM Clouds/PM Sun
Hi: 71°F, Low: 46°F
Hi: 71°F, Low: 46°F
Mostly Cloudy
Hi: 52°F, Low: 38°F
Hi: 52°F, Low: 38°F
Hi: 39°F, Low: 31°F
Hi: 39°F, Low: 31°F
Partly Cloudy
Hi: 42°F, Low: 26°F
Hi: 42°F, Low: 26°F
BANA News
|BCCC Hosts Nepali Ambassador to U.S. in International Heritage Day Celebration of Nepal
|Tuesday, 04 November 2008
The Colleges first annual International Heritage DayNepali Cultural Day in honor of Nepalplayed to a packed house Thursday, Nov. 6 from 1-3 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building as BCCC Nepalese students and members of the Nepalese community from across Baltimore gathered for a rich cultural exchange which included dance, music and ethnic dress. As part of the event, the College was privileged to host Nepali Ambassador to the U.S. Dr. Suresh Chandra Chalise, who stayed afterward to mingle with students and enjoy food prepared by area Nepalese restaurants.
BCCC student Shradha Karki, whose slain brother Himank studied engineering here and in whose name the event was dedicated, read an inspiring journal passage written by her brother exemplifying his lifes vision and commitment to education. The passage will be used to memorialize Himank on the BCCC Wall of Recognition, for which the Karki family will purchase the largest-sized brick offered by the BCCC Foundationa 12-inch by 12-inch, $750 tribute. The College originally offered to purchase the brick but the Karki family declined, citing its love for and commitment to BCCC. Ms. Karkis father, Jagannath, also attended.
Some 300 of BCCCs 1,100 international studentsby far the largest proportion of international students at the Collegeclaim Nepal as their country of birth. Currently, 114 countries are represented in BCCCs international student body. Most find their way to the College after connecting with native communities in Baltimore, seeking education for professions back home or enough credits to transfer to four-year colleges and universities.
Santosh Onta, environmental science major in his third semester at the College, said Baltimores rich Nepalese community is what drew him here. He transferred to BCCC from Troy University in Alabama to be closer to other members of his family.
Nepali Cultural Dayone of BCCCs most spectacular and best-attended events in yearswas spearheaded by Dr. Williams and coordinated by Andre Williams and a team of 25 students and staff from the student affairs, student development, enrollment management, English-as-a-Second Language, and Business and Continuing Education areas, who met weekly to coordinate details. Special thanks are extended to Meintje Westerbeek, director of Adult Education and English Language Services at BCCC; the International Student Club; Deneen Dangerfield, director of Admissions, Recruitment and Orientation; and William H. Hug, assistant director of Admissions, Recruitment and Orientation.
In addition, Lucious Anderson, vice president of the BCCC Business and Continuing Education Division, Ellen Abdul-Rabb, and former BCCC student Mohan Thapa, co-founder of the Baltimore Association of Nepalese in America, are congratulated for furthering the relationship of BCCC with the Baltimore Nepalese community. Mr. Thapa, whose impressive vocal performances alongside Prem Raja Mahat punctuated an already colorful and celebratory day, were outdone only by his painstaking effortswith Mahat and Kris Ghimireto secure the attendance of His Excellency Ambassador Chalise.
Mother and Motherland Greater Than Heaven!
new online casino
For Immediate Release Contact: Bill Fleming
November 3, 2008 410-986-5507
Press Release
BCCC to Host Nepali Ambassador to U.S. in
International Heritage Day Celebration of Nepal
BALTIMORE Baltimore City Community College and President Dr. Carolane Williams will host Dr. Suresh Chandra Chalise, Nepals ambassador to the U.S., in a grand celebration of Nepali culture Thursday, Nov. 6 from 1-3 p.m., at the Liberty campus Fine Arts Building, 2901 Liberty Heights Ave.
The celebration marks the colleges first International Heritage Day in which the people, cultures and countries of some 1,100 international students at BCCC are honored as a way to learn more about the diversity represented in its student body.
Nepal is the country of birth of over 300 BCCC students by far the largest proportion of international students attending. Currently, students from 114 countries call BCCC their home away from home. Most come to the college after arriving in Baltimore with other members of their communities to learn engineering, technology and related fields.
Thursdays event will feature food from area Nepalese restaurants. In addition, Nepalese students will present a series of rich cultural expressions including dance, music and ethnic dress, which promise a memorable community exchange.
|Last Updated ( Friday, 15 May 2009 )
Upcoming Events


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Editing of Bulbapedia is currently restricted. Please see this message for more details.
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire have arrived!
Check BNN and Bulbanews for up-to-date Pokémon news and discuss it on the forums or in our IRC channel.
Blastoise (Expedition 36)
Blastoise (Japanese: カメックス Kamex) is a Water-type Stage 2 Pokémon card. It is part of the Expedition Base Set.
Card text
Pokédex data
|Blastoise - Shellfish Pokémon
|5'3" (1.6 m)
|188.5 lbs. (85.5 kg)
Release information
This card was released in the English Expedition Base Set, first originating from the Japanese Pokémon-e Starter Deck. In Japan, the card was reprinted as a Cosmos Holofoil P Promotional card, and was one of three cards available as part of the Starter Triple Get Campaign <Red Green Course>. The Starter Triple Get Campaign required people collect 3 proof of purchase seals from Pokémon-e Starter Decks (only 1 was present on each deck), and send them to the Pokémon Company affixed to a postcard. Five lotteries were held during the campaign period, which ran from December 1, 2001 until April 30, 2001. 2,000 sets of cards were distributed to drawn entrants in each lottery, making a total of 10,000 sets available. 5,000 of these were Red Green Course sets, which contained this card, Venusaur, and Charizard. The other 5,000 were Gold Silver Course sets, containing Meganium, Feraligatr, and Typhlosion. The lotteries were held on December 31, 2001; January 31, 2002; February 28, 2002; March 30, 2002; and April 30, 2002.
Bubble is a move in the Pokémon games that Blastoise can learn.
|This article is part of Project TCG, a Bulbapedia project that aims to report on every aspect of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.


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FOX 11 Investigates: Ground water debate in central Wisconsin
Water levels at lakes in central Wisconsin are dropping. Could area farmers be to blame?
FOX 11 Investigates: Inmates not asked to pay jail costs in Outagamie Co.
Outagamie County chooses not to bill sentenced inmates for their jail stay, labeling it a "philosophical approach."
FOX 11 Investigates: Taxpayers get stuck with inmate jail bills
Brown County charges inmates $20 per day when it could charge them as much as $52, FOX 11 Investigates found.
FOX 11 Investigates 440 cases of unemployment fraud
Fraudulent claims were filed online, state officials say.
FOX 11 Investigates: Veterans take VA complaints to Ribble
One veteran contacted the congressman to get the VA to schedule his appointment in Green Bay instead of 100 miles away in Milwaukee.
FOX 11 Investigates fraudulent unemployment claims targeting workers
Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development is cooperating with a federal investigation looking into fraudulent unemployment claims.
FOX 11 Investigates: Recent change in cellphone tower law
A relatively new state law may improve your cellphone reception but it's making some residents angry. This spring, St. Joseph parish in Gree…
FOX 11 Investigates state efforts to cut sex offender program costs
GREEN BAY – The cost to house sex offenders in Wisconsin's Chapter 980 Supervised Release program is expensive. But changes are being made. …
FOX 11 Investigates sex offender audit shortcoming
GREEN BAY – A Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau recommendation to save money has gone nowhere since it was made nine months ago. The recomm…
Man spends 9 days in jail for library book
After seeing a recent FOX 11 Investigates report on a woman who was arrested for unreturned library items, an Oshkosh man shared his story "…


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Financial Services In The Spotlight At Sentiment Analysis Symposium
The financial services sector was in focus at this week's Sentiment Analysis Symposium in New York City, which is organized and produced by Alta Plana Corp. and its founder, Seth Grimes. Take, for example, the presentation by Rich Brown, head of Elektron Analytics at Thomson Reuters, who disclosed that the company is about to launch market response indicators in support of its Thomson Reuters News Analytics system for the financial community. That product this week also won The Technical Analyst's 2012 award for best news analytics software.
With its software, originally discussed here, qualitative, unstructured information is turned into a quantitative data set allowing users – machines and humans – to quickly analyze thousands of news stories in less time than it takes to read a single headline, as Thomson Reuters describes it. It uses natural language processing technology to get to the end game, which is to forecast financial market response from news and social media sentiment. Some 82 fields of metadata come into play for automating the analysis of news content. That encompasses sentiment down through to the degree of positive, negative or neutral expressions and how individual companies mentioned in a piece fare in those respects – rather than just the tone of the piece at large. "The computational linguistics system measures the author's tone as positive or negative on any given entity, which is important and the harder part of it," Brown said. Other fields include, for example, relevance, genre, intensity of news flow, and more.


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Since writing on "about us" pages a few months back, I've received several inquiries like this one:
Thank you for a very valuable information on the "About Us" page, good examples.
How about new companies or companies that are being created? Customers are skeptical to engage with new companies. What would be your advice in terms of what is the best content to put in it, what to highlight, if you do not have history and you are staring from the "garage" location?
...continue to read "How Start-Ups Can Build Effective "About Us" Pages"
Omniture, Inc. (NASDAQ: OMTR), a leading provider of online business optimization software, announced today a definitive agreement to acquire Visual Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSCN) in a stock and cash transaction valued at approximately $394 million.
This is a great move for the web analytics industries and their customers. Consolidation helps to create standards. My personal congratulations to Jim MacIntyre and all our friends at Visual Sciences, and to Josh James and crew at Omniture. Best of luck to all involved.…
Here's a great "Why didn't I think of that?" tip from TechSoapbox. Want to find some great keyword fodder for your site, or borrow a bit of mojo from the competition? Search del.icio.us/url to see how people who've tagged the sites you're interested in have phrased their description of the website.
And don't forget to check out the tag cloud on the top-right [example], which will give you some sense of visitors — at least the ones interested enough to bookmark it…
No disrespect to Mr. Trump — and I'm talking about his public persona, not the man himself — but most people wouldn't naturally connect "The Donald" with "Guru."
Why is that?
After all, Trump has proven expertise in his field. He's a bestselling author, several times over. He has an intensely personal "take" on not only his profession, but just about anything you might care to bring to his attention. He's been a mentor to more than one "apprentice" (sorry, couldn't resist).…
...continue to read "Is Trump a Guru? — Inspiring Online Credibility (Part 3)"
For the second installment in this series, we'll cover bounce rate (aka "reject rate"). Simply put, bounce rate measures the amount of visitors that are landing on your site and immediately bouncing off of it.
To qualify as a bounce, analytics tools will typically take all visitors who only see one page and leave. Time may also be used to qualify a bounce (e.g., any visit under 10 seconds as a bounce).*
To calculate bounce rate, take the number of bounces and…
...continue to read "Unlocking Key Performance Indicators: Bounce Rate"
Spirit Airlines used to have great customer service. It was refreshing, actually. In the late 90′s, you could fly round-trip from, say, Detroit to New York for about $120 in a hand-me-down jet staffed with friendly people. It was a great, low-cost airline that was always able to surpass its customers (even lower) expectations.
But all that's changed. Today, they have a brand-spanking-new fleet of mid-sized jets staffed with would-be friendly people who, bound and gagged with corporate red tape, can't…
...continue to read "Spirit Air: You Don't Have to Turn on the Red Light"
[This series will take an in-depth look at important web metrics, one-by-one. Enjoy!]
Key Performance Indicators or KPI's (define) are the critical Web metrics you should be monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of your site. Key performance indicators may differ depending on the business topology (ecommerce/retail, lead generation, content or self-service/support), but understanding them broadly is critical to any organization's online success.
In this first installment of Unlocking KPI's, we'll discuss the "take rate"; the amount of people taking you up…
...continue to read "Unlocking Key Performance Indicators: "Take Rate""
Ponder that word for a minute. Better yet, think of a field-specific guru whose views you value and ask yourself this: What distinguishes your Guru from just another professional in that field?
What causes one to inspire so much more credibility than another?
The ancient Greeks had a word for that trait: thumos. Want cult-of-personality-like persuasive ethos and credibility? Create thumos through your web copy. (In my last article, The Aristotle Code, I warned you that I was on a high-brow kick,…
...continue to read "The Would-be Guru: Inspiring Online Credibility (Part 2)"
Heidi Dangelmaier has a problem.
Heidi runs 3iying, a marketing company that specializes in reaching girls age 15-25. I met with Heidi in her NYC offices last summer to talk about an exciting new idea she was working on. When Heidi speaks with agencies and companies targeting this group, she tells them about the less than stellar job current advertisers are doing trying to speak to girls. The problem is, these companies and agencies haven't believed her.
So Heidi took it straight…
Is viral marketing the same as word of mouth? Seth Godin asked the question after receiving an email from a college student whose professor wouldn't allow the phrase "viral marketing" in a paper, insisting the term was meaningless proxy for word-of-mouth.
First of all, yes, viral marketing does exist. But it's a combination of tactics that, hopefully, eventually, enable positive word of mouth to spread. (In a moment, I'll share a remarkable story of one family-owned e-commerce shop that saved a network TV…
...continue to read "Going Nuts Over Viral Marketing & Word-of-Mouth"


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The Western Carolina Chapter presents regional conferences throughout our 49-county service area. Regional conferences cover a variety of topics, including but not limited to legal and financial planning, spirituality, long-term care, and more. For registration options and other details, click REGISTER NOW. See a list of upcoming programs. For more information, contact our 24/7 Helpline 800.272.3900.
Join us for the Mountain Area Caregiver Conference! REGISTER NOW!
Thursday, October 23, 2014 8:00am - 2:00pm
The Caregiver Education Conference focuses on providing family and professional caregivers with new, innovative information and caregiving techniques. The interactive sessions, motivating speakers, and innovative ideas focus on the many facets of Alzheimer's disease, caregiving, research, communication, life-enhancing activities and person-centered care.
Registration Fees:
$10 Family Caregivers
Continuing Education: Continuing education hours (total of 5.5 credit hours) will be available for social workers, CNA's, adult care home staff and nursing home administrators. No partial credits will be given.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors:
Stone Creek Health and Rehabilitation
Silver Sponsors:
Bronze Sponsors:
2014 Dementia Education Conference
Regional Caregiver Education Conference
Activity Resources


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Image viaEveryone has a favorite "terrible restaurant experience" story to share. Thanks to social media, there are more forums in which to share that story than ever before.However, the next time that you're preparing to sharpen your knives and post about crappy food or slow service on Yelp, Twi ... More >>
New food trend for vegetarians - eating meat. (Newsweek)Detroit's industrial wasteland turning into farmland. (Chicago Tribune)Fishermen lost at sea a reminder of the hard life of commercial fishing. (Newport News Daily Press)Florida beer delivery company celebrates first anniversary. (St ... More >>
Teabaggers to converge on Town and Country Whole Foods Tuesday night for "buycott" in support of CEO John Mackey's stance on health care reform. Plan accordingly. (St. Louis Business Journal)Some nasty candy's causing an uproar in the U.K. (The Daily Mail)Unilever experiments with freezer- ... More >>
Once again, the big news this morning: Three St. Louis chefs are semifinalists for this year's James Beard Awards.Texas recalls everything shipped -- ever -- from a now-shuttered Peanut Corp. of America plant. (AP)Consumer spending on food fell in the fourth quarter. (Wall Street Journal)Is the coin ... More >>
China's melamine scandal strikes an unlikely industry: edible sex toys. (New York Times) A new study might -- emphasis on might -- exonerate acrylamide, which forms in potato chips and other foods cooked at high heat and is usually considered a carcinogen. (Scientific American) We would eat this: ... More >>
Halo and hype over Jack Buck pierced by the passing of Darryl Kile


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Posts by anoff
3 posts • joined 7 May 2010
Windows 8 Surface: best tablet, best laptop OR compromised and confusing?
Like It
I've been using Window 8 on my laptop for about a week, and I really like it. Granted I banished the "Metro" menu in favor of Classic Shell, but the Metro isn't so bad, its just really not designed for a mouse. But on one of the Surface Pros with the real version of Windows 8 (none of that RT crap)? Its like, I get my real deal laptop (with the real keyboard case) when its the better tool (~80-90% of the time), and a functional tablet the rest of the time. Assuming its priced competitively against UltraBooks, sounds like a win.
It's pretty brilliant of M$ too. Apple is trying its hardest to turn the PC into a cell phone. M$ is trying to turn your computer into a cell phone. I've used my cell phone, i've used my computer; if I had to choose, i'm sticking with the computer.
Apple MacBook mid-2010
Worst review ever?
I mean, not only is it not objective, but it doesn't really say anything, mostly just fluff about how much the reviewer is a fanboi...I don't like Apple, but I know they make quality laptops, but this review basically boils down to:
1) I like Macs because they're made by Apple
2) If you care at all about your computer, you should skip this review
3) If you have no idea about anything to do with computers, you should read this review
(though if you know that little, maybe you should find a friend to help you out instead of a fanboi)
4) I like the keyboard
5) It needs more ports
6) Battery life is OK
Why did this review take 3 pages of the reviewer gushing like a 17 yr old girl over the latest fashion accessory trend?
F*ck you, thunders disgruntled
fanboi Apple user
Air Superiority
I can't jump because "i'm more important than you two. I can even afford a UK iPad!"
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