Sometimes, I feel like my time on the computer is wasted days and wasted nights. And tonight was a good example. I was doing things on the computer, using the Internet, and after a while, got frustrated because my email would not download. Well, after my computer had been working very nicely, thank you, on the Internet, all of a sudden, that stopped.
So, I reset the modem, the router, and the computer three times. Because it seemed to be working and then stopped, and Microsoft offered to detect the problem and fix it, it took me almost 2 hours to do this. So, then I called the Internet provider service. We spent another 40 or so minutes trying fix the computer and could not. We set up an appointment so a technician could come to me home, Wednesday to check the system. (So what am I supposed to do between now and Wednesday?)
Well, I went back onto the system, to the Internet options, and did what it said not to do, unless I could not use the Internet. I reset the Internet connections to the default settings. I have had to do this a couple of times recently, but under different circumstances: my email would work, but the Internet explorer options would not. Well, shazam! Tonight this fixed both the Internet connection and the email connection.
I am not sure why this happens. I did not hit any buttons or go to any sites that I do not normally use. This is so frustrating to me. And the time waiting for everything to reset is interminable. Except, I got the library book I was reading and made good progress in it.
But this time working on computer connectivity really is wasted days and wasted nights.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Saturday, January 24, 2015
My Credit ScoreI
I have really good credit scores. I have had really good credit scores for years. Two of my credit cards provide me with the credit scores. One credit card also provides me with a report regarding my credit score. There were two reasons why my credit was not better. One was that I did not have any or enough installment loans that would indicate my ability to make payment on installment loans. (What, I have to owe something to have a better credit score. That is a bit oxymoronic, don't you think?) I think this means I manage my finances in a way that does not require me to be in debt, don't you?
The other reason was that I do not have enough monthly bills or do not pay my monthly bills on time. That really sucks. I mean it is one thing not to have enough monthly bills to pay. Which, to me, again means I manage my finance in such a way that I do not need to have a lot of bills. But to lump that in with I do not pay my monthly bills on time. Come on. That is really weak. It is just an excuse to penalize someone. What a joke. Not having bills to pay does not nearly compare with not paying bills on time.
Well, that tells me what a joke credit scores are. The problem is, credit scores are taken seriously . Well, at least I come out okay.
The other reason was that I do not have enough monthly bills or do not pay my monthly bills on time. That really sucks. I mean it is one thing not to have enough monthly bills to pay. Which, to me, again means I manage my finance in such a way that I do not need to have a lot of bills. But to lump that in with I do not pay my monthly bills on time. Come on. That is really weak. It is just an excuse to penalize someone. What a joke. Not having bills to pay does not nearly compare with not paying bills on time.
Well, that tells me what a joke credit scores are. The problem is, credit scores are taken seriously . Well, at least I come out okay.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Check Something
When I am at work, I often think about things that I want to do at home, and will send myself an email. I started to do that today, and entitled an email "Check." But, I was interrupted, so when I went back to the email, I could not remember what I wanted to check. So, I sent myself an email that said "Check Something." When I got home, I had a receipt for my house taxes in the mail. That reminded me that that was what I wanted to check. I had sent in my payment early in the month. It took the appraisal district a long time to send me receipt. But they did.
Isn't it terrible that I could get that distracted that I forgot what I wanted to check? Oh well. I think it is a sign of aging.
Isn't it terrible that I could get that distracted that I forgot what I wanted to check? Oh well. I think it is a sign of aging.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Winter Weather
The South Plains were predicted to have rain by about 6 PM tonight, and later in the evening, snow. Hmm. The rain started about 3 PM. I knew the predictions were off. I wanted to go to the pool and do my exercises and then go on to the Lady Raider basketball game. But I decided that the weather predictions were not accurate, and I decided to stay home, instead.
Sure enough, the snow started earlier than predicted. I am glad I am at home and safe tonight.
Sure enough, the snow started earlier than predicted. I am glad I am at home and safe tonight.
Kitchen Fire
This was stupid. I was heating a candle in a pan of warm water, to melt the wax. But I was not paying attention to it. I was in another room, working on the computer and listening to the Lady Raider's basketball game.
It was near the end of the game. I wanted a drink, walked into the kitchen. As I did, I could see the reflections of flames. I did not panic. I shut the electric range unit off, and moved the pan off the electric eye. I got out the baking soda and doused the flame. I was distressed: I have a microwavable "kettle" to heat up water, and the handle melted. The range top is a mess. And the smoke in the house is slow to evacuate. I have the stove fan running, and have opened the windows so air can get in or smoke can get out, but it is a slow process.
I have kept the cats on the floor, where there is less smoke. I have stepped outside from time to time to get fresh air. I will not go to sleep until most of the smoke has been evacuated. As I said to begin with, this was stupid. I will be okay.
Except for the smoke, the damage is minimal. I am blessed that I discovered this fire before it got out of hand.
What I am surprised about is that usually if I am burning something when I am cooking, one or more of my cats tells me about it. None of my cats told me about this. It is not their job. I just need to be more cognizant.
It was near the end of the game. I wanted a drink, walked into the kitchen. As I did, I could see the reflections of flames. I did not panic. I shut the electric range unit off, and moved the pan off the electric eye. I got out the baking soda and doused the flame. I was distressed: I have a microwavable "kettle" to heat up water, and the handle melted. The range top is a mess. And the smoke in the house is slow to evacuate. I have the stove fan running, and have opened the windows so air can get in or smoke can get out, but it is a slow process.
I have kept the cats on the floor, where there is less smoke. I have stepped outside from time to time to get fresh air. I will not go to sleep until most of the smoke has been evacuated. As I said to begin with, this was stupid. I will be okay.
Except for the smoke, the damage is minimal. I am blessed that I discovered this fire before it got out of hand.
What I am surprised about is that usually if I am burning something when I am cooking, one or more of my cats tells me about it. None of my cats told me about this. It is not their job. I just need to be more cognizant.
I Have a Dream
I recently heard someone say that Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream became a reality when Barak Obama became President of the United States of America. I do not think that is true.
President Obama has not used his office as a bully pulpit, except when he talked about
remembering what it felt like to be a young Afro-American, and having to always look over your shoulder and be aware where you were and what was going on, and what might happen, even though you were not doing anything wrong.
I think, in the last couple of years, the recognition that this is still an issue for Afro-American males has risen. High profile cases have made this obvious: The killing of Trayvon Martin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_of_Trayvon_Martin The shooting of Michael Brown http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_Ferguson_unrest. The death of Eric Garner http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/20/justice/ny-chokehold-death/index.html
These are just a few examples of incidents involving Afro-American men who are in situations that may have been handled differently, had their race been different. It is a reality. A sad but true reality.
I think that Martin Luther King's dream will become a reality when these incidents are treated fairly, openly, transparently, and without questionable circumstances that might be colored by race.
President Obama has not used his office as a bully pulpit, except when he talked about
remembering what it felt like to be a young Afro-American, and having to always look over your shoulder and be aware where you were and what was going on, and what might happen, even though you were not doing anything wrong.
I think, in the last couple of years, the recognition that this is still an issue for Afro-American males has risen. High profile cases have made this obvious: The killing of Trayvon Martin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_of_Trayvon_Martin The shooting of Michael Brown http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_Ferguson_unrest. The death of Eric Garner http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/20/justice/ny-chokehold-death/index.html
These are just a few examples of incidents involving Afro-American men who are in situations that may have been handled differently, had their race been different. It is a reality. A sad but true reality.
I think that Martin Luther King's dream will become a reality when these incidents are treated fairly, openly, transparently, and without questionable circumstances that might be colored by race.
Movies and Eating Out
When I moved to Lubbock in 1977, I was told that Lubbockites go out to eat and go to the movies for entertainment. In the past two years, I have started going out to eat from time to time. And, recently, I have gone to see movies that really pique my interest.
Well, this past weekend, which was a holiday weekend, I went out to lunch on Sunday. On Monday, I went to see the movie Selma. I guess I have become a Lubbockite.
Well, this past weekend, which was a holiday weekend, I went out to lunch on Sunday. On Monday, I went to see the movie Selma. I guess I have become a Lubbockite.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Wheel of Fortune: America's Game
Do you watch Wheel of Fortune http://www.wheeloffortune.com/? I have, off and on over the many years this TV show has been on television. At this point in my life, I do not usually watch game shows in their entirety and on purpose. I frequently watch game shows as "fillers;" in other words the show is on the same channel as the next TV program I want to watch, or is on the same channel as the TV program I just watched, and I do not want to watch something else, until the next awaited show airs. So, I may or may not be paying close attention to the show. The same is true for Jeopardy http://www.jeopardy.com/.
One thing about Wheel of Fortune is how the role of Vanna White http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanna_White has evolved. In the beginning she was just the letter turner. The letters could have been turned mechanically, like the blocks were turned on Concentration. But some genius recognized the value of having a dazzling beauty perform this chore. I suspect that about 50% of the viewing public are as interested in watching Ms. White turn letters as they are in what the puzzle is. Ms. White has gone from being a mostly silent letter turner to an integral part of the speaking show.
Her job could have gone long ago: TV has the digital capabilities of turning or lighting up letters with no help from a person. But Vanna White is as much a part of Wheel of Fortune as is Pat Sajak http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Sajak, the host.
So recently, and I cannot tell you when, I have noticed something on "America's Game." that I found very exciting and positive. When the game's winner is decided, the winner is asked who is cheering for them in the live audience. Contestants bring anybody and everybody: parents, siblings, children, spouses, aunts, uncles, cousins, best friends, coworkers, for example. Recently, I have noticed contestants introducing same sex supporters as "my special friend," "my partner," "my life partner," and most recently, a male contestant introduced his husband.
I think this is so positive that people are willing to acknowledge their relationships in public and on national TV. The Wikipedia information on Pat Sajak indicates he is a conservative, so I have to wonder how he feels about this. But it is what it is. 30 states now recognize same sex marriage. We have to deal with the reality that sexual preference is a right. And should be accorded the benefits, privileges and freedoms accorded to that right.
I think this is a good thing for the American Public. People with same sex "special friends" have been in my life as long as I can remember. I learned about homosexuality in high school, and got to know many homosexuals in college. As my life has evolved, I have gotten to know many more people who are homosexual, who are in various degrees of acknowledgement of their sexuality. And my relationships with them are in various degrees from acquaintance or co-worker, to good friend.
Years ago, I was in a break room at work, and my co-workers were disparaging homosexuals. Uncharacteristically for me, I was brave enough to say they should be careful how they talk about homosexuals, because they do not know who in the room might be one. I embarrassed some people that day, and made enemies of others.
Some people in my life have accusingly told me that my friends are homosexuals. My response has been "so." I did not care if the accusation was right or wrong. It makes no difference. Those people are right. I do have friends who are homosexuals, but not all of my friends are homosexuals. I make friends based on the character of the person, not their sexual preference. I have very few close friends, and I cherish those I have. Their religion, ethnic origin, or sexual preference is of no consequence to me. Their character and interaction with me is.
Isn't this "America's Game?" Not our race, religion, gender preference, sexual preference, creed, national origin, ethnicity, age, or physical and mental capability, or socioeconomic status? Are we not all created equal under the law? True we are all individuals with individuals talents and capabilities, but should we not all be offered similar, equal or consistent opportunities under the law? Sure our personal circumstances do not necessarily offer us equal economic, educational or social advantages. But shouldn't we have the opportunity to those if we can access those? And shouldn't our government be working towards making those opportunities more universally accessible to all citizens? Isn't this "America's Game?"
One thing about Wheel of Fortune is how the role of Vanna White http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanna_White has evolved. In the beginning she was just the letter turner. The letters could have been turned mechanically, like the blocks were turned on Concentration. But some genius recognized the value of having a dazzling beauty perform this chore. I suspect that about 50% of the viewing public are as interested in watching Ms. White turn letters as they are in what the puzzle is. Ms. White has gone from being a mostly silent letter turner to an integral part of the speaking show.
Her job could have gone long ago: TV has the digital capabilities of turning or lighting up letters with no help from a person. But Vanna White is as much a part of Wheel of Fortune as is Pat Sajak http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Sajak, the host.
So recently, and I cannot tell you when, I have noticed something on "America's Game." that I found very exciting and positive. When the game's winner is decided, the winner is asked who is cheering for them in the live audience. Contestants bring anybody and everybody: parents, siblings, children, spouses, aunts, uncles, cousins, best friends, coworkers, for example. Recently, I have noticed contestants introducing same sex supporters as "my special friend," "my partner," "my life partner," and most recently, a male contestant introduced his husband.
I think this is so positive that people are willing to acknowledge their relationships in public and on national TV. The Wikipedia information on Pat Sajak indicates he is a conservative, so I have to wonder how he feels about this. But it is what it is. 30 states now recognize same sex marriage. We have to deal with the reality that sexual preference is a right. And should be accorded the benefits, privileges and freedoms accorded to that right.
I think this is a good thing for the American Public. People with same sex "special friends" have been in my life as long as I can remember. I learned about homosexuality in high school, and got to know many homosexuals in college. As my life has evolved, I have gotten to know many more people who are homosexual, who are in various degrees of acknowledgement of their sexuality. And my relationships with them are in various degrees from acquaintance or co-worker, to good friend.
Years ago, I was in a break room at work, and my co-workers were disparaging homosexuals. Uncharacteristically for me, I was brave enough to say they should be careful how they talk about homosexuals, because they do not know who in the room might be one. I embarrassed some people that day, and made enemies of others.
Some people in my life have accusingly told me that my friends are homosexuals. My response has been "so." I did not care if the accusation was right or wrong. It makes no difference. Those people are right. I do have friends who are homosexuals, but not all of my friends are homosexuals. I make friends based on the character of the person, not their sexual preference. I have very few close friends, and I cherish those I have. Their religion, ethnic origin, or sexual preference is of no consequence to me. Their character and interaction with me is.
Isn't this "America's Game?" Not our race, religion, gender preference, sexual preference, creed, national origin, ethnicity, age, or physical and mental capability, or socioeconomic status? Are we not all created equal under the law? True we are all individuals with individuals talents and capabilities, but should we not all be offered similar, equal or consistent opportunities under the law? Sure our personal circumstances do not necessarily offer us equal economic, educational or social advantages. But shouldn't we have the opportunity to those if we can access those? And shouldn't our government be working towards making those opportunities more universally accessible to all citizens? Isn't this "America's Game?"
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
A Truly Tragic Accident
At work today, the word went out, that there was an accident involving a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/index.html vehicle, and it was bad. Our unit was asked for help, and sent 10 staff members. We waited with heavy hearts for word.
The accident involved a chain bus that was transporting offenders from the Middleton Unit in Abilene, Texas, to the Sanchez Unit, in El Paso Texas. An accident occurred, and all 15 people on the bus were involved: 2 correctional officers dead, 8 offenders dead, 4 in critical condition, one in serious condition. http://cbs7.com/news/article_ea95e15c-9c50-11e4-89d5-ff5d85652c25.html http://www.kcbd.com/story/27853733/correctional-officer-injured-in-bus-crash-airlifted-to-umc.
This is tragic yet it seems to be an accident. The unofficial word is that it was due to icy conditions on the interstate.
God grant peace and mercy, and rest to the souls of those deceased. Pray for the ease and recovery of those who were injured. Give comfort and ease to those survivors who mourn their loss. Prayers go out to the family, loved ones and friends of all involved.
There are staff at the Montford Unit who knew the staff involved: they drove chain buses to Montford. Staff transferred from Middleton to Montford. For the folks who are personally involved, my prayers are especially sent out for your peace.
The accident involved a chain bus that was transporting offenders from the Middleton Unit in Abilene, Texas, to the Sanchez Unit, in El Paso Texas. An accident occurred, and all 15 people on the bus were involved: 2 correctional officers dead, 8 offenders dead, 4 in critical condition, one in serious condition. http://cbs7.com/news/article_ea95e15c-9c50-11e4-89d5-ff5d85652c25.html http://www.kcbd.com/story/27853733/correctional-officer-injured-in-bus-crash-airlifted-to-umc.
This is tragic yet it seems to be an accident. The unofficial word is that it was due to icy conditions on the interstate.
God grant peace and mercy, and rest to the souls of those deceased. Pray for the ease and recovery of those who were injured. Give comfort and ease to those survivors who mourn their loss. Prayers go out to the family, loved ones and friends of all involved.
There are staff at the Montford Unit who knew the staff involved: they drove chain buses to Montford. Staff transferred from Middleton to Montford. For the folks who are personally involved, my prayers are especially sent out for your peace.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
This is Pure Corn, or Is It?
Technically, I work for the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), but working at a prison, we have limited access to Internet, and we are cautioned about using streaming audio or video as it takes up bandwidth.
So, last week, when I received an email from the TTUHSC President Mitchell, MD., that included a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08C5sM09NQo. , I watched some of it briefly. It was a welcome back message directed to the students at the medical school. I stopped the video and sent it home, because I could tell it was pure corn. I did watch it at home.
I was not sure how I felt about the video. It was pure corn. It was fun and entertaining. And, it probably would appeal to the students returning to the medical school. Would the public think it was a waste of time and resources? I do not know. I had mixed feelings about it, but after talking to co-workers, I thought it made sense for this day and age.
Tonight, on KCBD http://www.kcbd.com/ they aired an announcement about President Mitchell's video, and said they had a link to it on their website. The newscaster, Karen McKay said the video was "entertaining." It was, but it was really goofy. And, I went to the website to look for the link, and could not find it. I hate it when that happens. If you tell me there is a link on your website, why don't you make it obvious? Otherwise, why bother at all to tell me about it. I suspect the link is there, but like so many websites now, it is so busy, it is difficult to find what you want. Simplify! But, that is another blog.
Anyway, if you are so inclined, you can use the link above to see President Mitchell's welcome back to students.
So, last week, when I received an email from the TTUHSC President Mitchell, MD., that included a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08C5sM09NQo. , I watched some of it briefly. It was a welcome back message directed to the students at the medical school. I stopped the video and sent it home, because I could tell it was pure corn. I did watch it at home.
I was not sure how I felt about the video. It was pure corn. It was fun and entertaining. And, it probably would appeal to the students returning to the medical school. Would the public think it was a waste of time and resources? I do not know. I had mixed feelings about it, but after talking to co-workers, I thought it made sense for this day and age.
Tonight, on KCBD http://www.kcbd.com/ they aired an announcement about President Mitchell's video, and said they had a link to it on their website. The newscaster, Karen McKay said the video was "entertaining." It was, but it was really goofy. And, I went to the website to look for the link, and could not find it. I hate it when that happens. If you tell me there is a link on your website, why don't you make it obvious? Otherwise, why bother at all to tell me about it. I suspect the link is there, but like so many websites now, it is so busy, it is difficult to find what you want. Simplify! But, that is another blog.
Anyway, if you are so inclined, you can use the link above to see President Mitchell's welcome back to students.
Restlessness
I felt at loose ends this weekend. I spread tasks and chores with plenty of down time. I went to the Lady Raider game, and almost missed a meeting today, but remembered it late Saturday, so was prepared for it.
I did not have anything special or extra I needed to do today. I did not need to make a trip to the library, which I make almost every weekend. I did take items to the recycling center.
It has been so cold, I have not gone to the pool lately. I miss it. I suppose I could have gone today, but did not: before my meeting, I could have but early Sunday afternoon is usually very crowded. After the meeting, I could have gone in for a while, but I would not have completed my routine. I just dislike being cold during and after the session. I will wait for warmer weather, although today was a warm oasis in a string of very cold days.
I just have felt at loose ends. That is not bad. With doing coverage for vacationing co-workers, work has been a little busier the last few weeks than it had been lately. So having some really down time was good.
I did not have anything special or extra I needed to do today. I did not need to make a trip to the library, which I make almost every weekend. I did take items to the recycling center.
It has been so cold, I have not gone to the pool lately. I miss it. I suppose I could have gone today, but did not: before my meeting, I could have but early Sunday afternoon is usually very crowded. After the meeting, I could have gone in for a while, but I would not have completed my routine. I just dislike being cold during and after the session. I will wait for warmer weather, although today was a warm oasis in a string of very cold days.
I just have felt at loose ends. That is not bad. With doing coverage for vacationing co-workers, work has been a little busier the last few weeks than it had been lately. So having some really down time was good.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
NFL Post Season Play
I am a mild National Football League http://www.nfl.com/ fan. I will watch a New England Patriots' game, and maybe a New York Giants' game. And, I follow the Superbowl http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/49 because I like the half time commercials. And even if the teams playing or of no interest to me, I live in football worshipping country, so it is something that is a general topic of conversation, this time of year.
Tonight, I watched the end of the game between the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens, and was delighted to see the Patriots win. So, now I need to keep abreast of what other teams are in the play offs. Since there is nothing else I wanted to watch on TV, I am watching the Seattle Seahawks and the North Carolina Panthers. I have been to Seattle and to North Carolina. My sentimental favorite would be the Panthers, but it looks like the Seahawks will win.
Tomorrow the Dallas Cowboys will play the Green Bay Packers. I hate the Dallas Cowboys, and am a mild Green Bay Packers fan, so that is where my sympathies will lie. The second game is between the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos. I have been to both cities. I have no leanings toward either team.
So, we will watch how the teams progress through the play offs.
Tonight, I watched the end of the game between the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens, and was delighted to see the Patriots win. So, now I need to keep abreast of what other teams are in the play offs. Since there is nothing else I wanted to watch on TV, I am watching the Seattle Seahawks and the North Carolina Panthers. I have been to Seattle and to North Carolina. My sentimental favorite would be the Panthers, but it looks like the Seahawks will win.
Tomorrow the Dallas Cowboys will play the Green Bay Packers. I hate the Dallas Cowboys, and am a mild Green Bay Packers fan, so that is where my sympathies will lie. The second game is between the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos. I have been to both cities. I have no leanings toward either team.
So, we will watch how the teams progress through the play offs.
My Computer Is Not So Smart! So There!
So, I know that programs like Google and BING track our computer usage and direct advertising our way. They also track where we are so that they can give us correct websites for commercial products.
Tonight, my computer is not so smart. I looked up the movie, Selma http://www.selmamovie.com/. And, I got the listings for Lufkin, Texas, even after I tried to change it to Lubbock, Texas. Then, I went to Barnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ and BING http://www.bing.com/ gave me the address for the store in Amarillo, Texas.
And, that is the problem. I hate BING. Yet my computer keeps defaulting to BING, although I keep trying to set it so it won't do that. I think BING is stupid. I much prefer Google https://www.google.com/. When I use Google, I don't get a lot of paid advertising sites, and I get a more accurate and complete search.
I discovered, when I was having trouble with Suddenlink http://home.suddenlink.net/, I think it was in December of 2013, that when I blogged my complaints about Suddenlink, that they had someone who must have been trolling for such things, because I got a comment, not once but twice from the "same person" encouraging me to contact them if I had ongoing problems. It felt like the comments were "canned." But, at least Suddenlink tried to do a customer service contact when I was publicly complaining. I wonder if BING and Google do the same thing.
We shall see.
Tonight, my computer is not so smart. I looked up the movie, Selma http://www.selmamovie.com/. And, I got the listings for Lufkin, Texas, even after I tried to change it to Lubbock, Texas. Then, I went to Barnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ and BING http://www.bing.com/ gave me the address for the store in Amarillo, Texas.
And, that is the problem. I hate BING. Yet my computer keeps defaulting to BING, although I keep trying to set it so it won't do that. I think BING is stupid. I much prefer Google https://www.google.com/. When I use Google, I don't get a lot of paid advertising sites, and I get a more accurate and complete search.
I discovered, when I was having trouble with Suddenlink http://home.suddenlink.net/, I think it was in December of 2013, that when I blogged my complaints about Suddenlink, that they had someone who must have been trolling for such things, because I got a comment, not once but twice from the "same person" encouraging me to contact them if I had ongoing problems. It felt like the comments were "canned." But, at least Suddenlink tried to do a customer service contact when I was publicly complaining. I wonder if BING and Google do the same thing.
We shall see.
It is Soup and Stew Weather
We have had a lot of cold weather lately. Today, when I was doing my weekly grocery shopping, I did not have anything in particular in mind to buy for meals for the upcoming week, so I bought several different soups. I like soup.
I am finishing off my Christmas ham, and have carved the meat off the bone. I have the bone, and lots of scraps that I will use for seasoning when I make pea soup tomorrow.
If the cold weather continues, I think next week I will make a stew.
Those are good cold weather foods.
I am finishing off my Christmas ham, and have carved the meat off the bone. I have the bone, and lots of scraps that I will use for seasoning when I make pea soup tomorrow.
If the cold weather continues, I think next week I will make a stew.
Those are good cold weather foods.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Such a Nice Gesture
Last fall, when Patrick Modiano was announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/literature/laureates/2014/modiano-facts.html I mentioned to the Barnes and Noble www.barnesandnoble.com Mystery Book Club that I attend, that we might want to read one of his books, Missing Person http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missing_Person_(novel), which is a mystery of sorts. Several members of the group had heard of his Nobel Prize and this book, but ultimately, we did not decide to read the book as a group.
I went on line looking for the book, and the price on Alibris and Abebooks was very high. One of the club members, Debbie, told me to go to Amazon, and I did. They offered the book a reasonable price. But then, they kept telling me the order was delayed, and they asked me if I wanted to continue the order, continue to a specific date, or cancel the order. I decided to continue the order, indefinitely. We discussed it at the book club, and thought that a new printing would occur, and the book would be available at a reasonable price. This is exactly what happened.
This week at the Barnes and Noble Mystery Book Club, Debbie had her copy of Missing Person. She wanted to be sure that I had access to the book. She had not yet read it. Debbie made such a nice gesture. (I received mine and was about half way through the book)
Later in the meeting, I had to excuse myself to use the restroom. By the time I returned, the group had disbanded. Suzy was still waiting, because I had left my coat, and a book loaned from another member at the table.
These are really good people who are kind and considerate of other members in the group. I really appreciate the people in the Barnes and Noble Mystery Book Club in Lubbock.
I went on line looking for the book, and the price on Alibris and Abebooks was very high. One of the club members, Debbie, told me to go to Amazon, and I did. They offered the book a reasonable price. But then, they kept telling me the order was delayed, and they asked me if I wanted to continue the order, continue to a specific date, or cancel the order. I decided to continue the order, indefinitely. We discussed it at the book club, and thought that a new printing would occur, and the book would be available at a reasonable price. This is exactly what happened.
This week at the Barnes and Noble Mystery Book Club, Debbie had her copy of Missing Person. She wanted to be sure that I had access to the book. She had not yet read it. Debbie made such a nice gesture. (I received mine and was about half way through the book)
Later in the meeting, I had to excuse myself to use the restroom. By the time I returned, the group had disbanded. Suzy was still waiting, because I had left my coat, and a book loaned from another member at the table.
These are really good people who are kind and considerate of other members in the group. I really appreciate the people in the Barnes and Noble Mystery Book Club in Lubbock.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Do I Really Need A Smart Phone?
So, I have an old-fashion flip phone. It has a camera, which I do not use, and I can actually access the internet with it, if I want to, but access is so slow, and the screen size is so small, I have long ago discontinued that service plan.
I keep debating about getting a smart phone. I can text with my flip phone. I pay for each text message. But, the truth be known, for as much texting I do, the pay per text message cost is still much lower than what I would pay to have a smart phone unlimited plan.
So, why do I need a smart phone? I don't. There are two reasons that are not very compelling for me to get a smart phone: The technology of my flip phone is outdated, and there will come a time when it is so outdated that it will limit my phone capabilities. Since I usually only use my phone for voice communication, that has not yet happened.
The other reason I might want (not need) a smart phone is because I want to learn and use that level of technology. The truth be know, I seldom text, and I do not make a lot of phone calls. I might like the portable internet access, but I am not sure the price is worth the convenience.
My cell phone service is with Sprint http://www.sprint.com/mysprint/pages/sl/global/index.jsp. I have been a long term customer with Sprint, I think since 2003. I see the promotional offers for customers to change to Sprint, but I have never once recalled an offer from Sprint to reduce my bill, or give me a deal because I have been a long term customer. (This is a wrong, long term customers need to get consideration.)
In November of 2013, I had a connectivity problem which Sprint denied was happening, until I finally convinced someone to check on it and they realized it was occurring. I could not use my phone in my home for a week. I asked for a price adjustment, was told it would be only a few dollars, and said I wanted it anyway.
Within the past 12 months, I had another such problem, but it was resolved much more quickly.
Every time I call customer service at Sprint, I am thanked for being a long time customer, but those thanks are not reflected in my bill. Sprint needs to figure it out. If they really value me as a long term customer, they need to find a way to reward me for that. That might include giving me a deal on an upgrade, as if I were transferring in from another cell phone service provider.
I keep debating about getting a smart phone. I can text with my flip phone. I pay for each text message. But, the truth be known, for as much texting I do, the pay per text message cost is still much lower than what I would pay to have a smart phone unlimited plan.
So, why do I need a smart phone? I don't. There are two reasons that are not very compelling for me to get a smart phone: The technology of my flip phone is outdated, and there will come a time when it is so outdated that it will limit my phone capabilities. Since I usually only use my phone for voice communication, that has not yet happened.
The other reason I might want (not need) a smart phone is because I want to learn and use that level of technology. The truth be know, I seldom text, and I do not make a lot of phone calls. I might like the portable internet access, but I am not sure the price is worth the convenience.
My cell phone service is with Sprint http://www.sprint.com/mysprint/pages/sl/global/index.jsp. I have been a long term customer with Sprint, I think since 2003. I see the promotional offers for customers to change to Sprint, but I have never once recalled an offer from Sprint to reduce my bill, or give me a deal because I have been a long term customer. (This is a wrong, long term customers need to get consideration.)
In November of 2013, I had a connectivity problem which Sprint denied was happening, until I finally convinced someone to check on it and they realized it was occurring. I could not use my phone in my home for a week. I asked for a price adjustment, was told it would be only a few dollars, and said I wanted it anyway.
Within the past 12 months, I had another such problem, but it was resolved much more quickly.
Every time I call customer service at Sprint, I am thanked for being a long time customer, but those thanks are not reflected in my bill. Sprint needs to figure it out. If they really value me as a long term customer, they need to find a way to reward me for that. That might include giving me a deal on an upgrade, as if I were transferring in from another cell phone service provider.
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Meltdown!
Well, the morning started foggy and cold again, but by late morning, the melting had started in Lubbock. That is the thing about snow and ice in Lubbock: when it melts, it usually melts with a vengeance: everything warms up, and the snow melts, there is no place for the water to go, so we have some minor street flooding. Ice melts and comes crashing down from lights, branches, roofs, and what have you, sometimes causing more damage with the crash than with the weight of the snow and ice.
Usually, it does not all melt in one day, and refreezes overnight, with the possibility it will continue to disappear. We may get some snow tomorrow, but now we have wonderful sunshine.
That is one of the things that amazes me about the weather in West Texas. The other thing is how quickly things dry out after a rain, even a heavy rain. Usually, but the next day, all traces of rain are gone, except maybe, debris.
Usually, it does not all melt in one day, and refreezes overnight, with the possibility it will continue to disappear. We may get some snow tomorrow, but now we have wonderful sunshine.
That is one of the things that amazes me about the weather in West Texas. The other thing is how quickly things dry out after a rain, even a heavy rain. Usually, but the next day, all traces of rain are gone, except maybe, debris.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Winter Weather, Again?
I knew we were scheduled to have winter weather again today. I was hoping the forecast was wrong. It started cold and grey again, and by mid-day or a little later, it was raining. The rain started freezing late in the day. We were allowed to leave work early again, as the driving conditions were deteriorating.
But, scraping off the car was not as difficult as it was Tuesday, and walking, you could feel the slush versus ice, but there were plenty of icy patches.
As I drove home, I drove through sleet, rain, snow flakes and rain. The temperature actually went up a degree by the time I got home, according to the sensor on my car.
But, it must be a real weather event. Lubbock was mentioned twice on the NBC nightly news cast in reference to the winter storm, which is very wide spread!
But, scraping off the car was not as difficult as it was Tuesday, and walking, you could feel the slush versus ice, but there were plenty of icy patches.
As I drove home, I drove through sleet, rain, snow flakes and rain. The temperature actually went up a degree by the time I got home, according to the sensor on my car.
But, it must be a real weather event. Lubbock was mentioned twice on the NBC nightly news cast in reference to the winter storm, which is very wide spread!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Snowbound?
Well, not really. And not in sense of the poem by Snowbound by John Greenleaf Whittier http://www.theotherpages.org/poems/whitt02.html. I never have read the whole poem but it is about a family that is truly snowbound, and how they pass the time.
My snowbound status started with the freezing drizzle Tuesday afternoon, that sent me (and my coworkers) home from work a little early, on emergency leave.
Overnight, the freezing drizzle and ice coating was covered with snow. Although I had plenty of plans for December 31, 2014, nothing was essential, and it seemed to me that staying home was wiser than chancing risky driving and a possible accident.
I had thought that if the weather improved, I might go out for a while on New Year's Day. Well, it has stayed freezing cold with freezing drizzle at times during the day, so it made no sense to me to take a purely pleasure excursion. I do see some traffic out and about, but I have no idea why the people traveling are doing so. Nor does it matter much to me. Only that I hope their travels are safe.
I had stocked up with what I wanted and needed for the holiday, so I have no reason to have to be out. I really try not to do last minute shopping. I do not want to face crowds or the possibility of something else happening.
I have entertained myself with reading, watching TV, computering, visiting with the cats and what have you.
But I am getting a touch of cabin fever. If walking did not aggravate my sciatica and back pain, I would go for a walk. I am okay.
I anticipate going to work on Friday. It may be that the starting time is delayed, if the weather does not improve, and so far, it does not appear it will do so. And, on the way home from work, I can take care of the few errands that need tending to.
Being snowbound in this day and age does not isolate someone from the world. There is too much access as long as the electric power endures.
My snowbound status started with the freezing drizzle Tuesday afternoon, that sent me (and my coworkers) home from work a little early, on emergency leave.
Overnight, the freezing drizzle and ice coating was covered with snow. Although I had plenty of plans for December 31, 2014, nothing was essential, and it seemed to me that staying home was wiser than chancing risky driving and a possible accident.
I had thought that if the weather improved, I might go out for a while on New Year's Day. Well, it has stayed freezing cold with freezing drizzle at times during the day, so it made no sense to me to take a purely pleasure excursion. I do see some traffic out and about, but I have no idea why the people traveling are doing so. Nor does it matter much to me. Only that I hope their travels are safe.
I had stocked up with what I wanted and needed for the holiday, so I have no reason to have to be out. I really try not to do last minute shopping. I do not want to face crowds or the possibility of something else happening.
I have entertained myself with reading, watching TV, computering, visiting with the cats and what have you.
But I am getting a touch of cabin fever. If walking did not aggravate my sciatica and back pain, I would go for a walk. I am okay.
I anticipate going to work on Friday. It may be that the starting time is delayed, if the weather does not improve, and so far, it does not appear it will do so. And, on the way home from work, I can take care of the few errands that need tending to.
Being snowbound in this day and age does not isolate someone from the world. There is too much access as long as the electric power endures.
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