Amazing when you black out someone's face what kinda results you get.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Scary Thursday!
Yes...I "borrow" things from time to time. I cannot begin to list all the links I've seen this at...you know who you are. So here are my results:
Amazing when you black out someone's face what kinda results you get.
Amazing when you black out someone's face what kinda results you get.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Maybe more Later
Ummmm...
Hmmmm...
(crickets chirping)
Apparently my CRS and Someheimers are working collectively. I started working out a blog post or two and lost my thought track. So instead of making my daily readers suffer, I will opt not to post anything today.
And for you smart-alecks, yes I realize this is a post!
Hmmmm...
(crickets chirping)
Apparently my CRS and Someheimers are working collectively. I started working out a blog post or two and lost my thought track. So instead of making my daily readers suffer, I will opt not to post anything today.
And for you smart-alecks, yes I realize this is a post!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
DASAINT
Ever fill your automobile tires and get too much pressure? I always have mine filled to 34 psi and during the winter snow I'll run 32 psi. Better traction that way.
Today I noticed my ride was handling a little bizarre. Nothing to horrendous but after having this car for 6 years now, I always notice the little peculiarities. So I stopped to fill with gas and air up the tires. As I aired the tires, I accidently put 36 psi into a couple of tires. So naturally wanting to maintain continuity, I aired out 2 psi on both tires.
Good Gawd!!!
Stale air...nothing like stale air from auto tires. It was horrid...left a distinct aroma of warm air with a hint of tire rubber congesting my nostrils. So needless to say my lunch had a definite aroma with a hint of said tire rubber. Good thing I had my mouth shut prior to releasing that horrible stale air. Otherwise, I'm positive I would've gagged and probably not finished my lunch. People complain of feeling sick after long airline flights from the supposed stale air. Just think of the medical issues a direct shot could cause.
Since everyone these days organize a charity drive or support group, I'm starting my own. I am the founder and CEO of D.A.S.A.IN.T. Membership is free and there might be a quarterly newsletter covering medical issues and regional reports. Brothers and Sisters...I implore you to unite for a worthy cause. We shall not allow this deplorable condition to remain unchecked. I'm positive the guys at my local tire shop will give a big Hoorah and membership will grow exponentially.
Oh yes...D.A.S.A.IN.T. stands for Democracy Against Stale Air In Tires!
Sincerely,
DaSaint
heh
Monday, August 28, 2006
As I Suspected...
Attention Whore
It's simply amazing how MSM can exploit ANYTHING and deem it justifiable. All the news coverage for what...another case of mistaken identity. DNA doesn't match, charges will be dropped and I'm sure a few people will lose their jobs over this fiasco.
Oh I'm sure he'll have his movie/book rights now. Wait and see...he'll write about how his life was exploited, his privacy invaded, his civil rights denied, etc...BLAH BLAH BLAH Name of the book you ask? "How to be a Profitable Attention Whore"
Prime example of why I DON'T watch very much MSM!
"You all go home now...nothing to see here."
***quickly sets fire to the soapbox, kicks it out the door and leaves work***
It's simply amazing how MSM can exploit ANYTHING and deem it justifiable. All the news coverage for what...another case of mistaken identity. DNA doesn't match, charges will be dropped and I'm sure a few people will lose their jobs over this fiasco.
Oh I'm sure he'll have his movie/book rights now. Wait and see...he'll write about how his life was exploited, his privacy invaded, his civil rights denied, etc...BLAH BLAH BLAH Name of the book you ask? "How to be a Profitable Attention Whore"
Prime example of why I DON'T watch very much MSM!
"You all go home now...nothing to see here."
***quickly sets fire to the soapbox, kicks it out the door and leaves work***
Lost in Time
Ever had that experience where you've sent/posted something but can't find it to save your life? I posted something in a comments section last Friday (I think) and I can't find where. Wasn't anything awe inspiring but I wanted to check back to see if the person responded. And for the life of me, I can't find it now.
Where was I....oh yes, can't seem to remember things. Most that know me say I'm afflicted with CRS. (Can't Remember Sh&t) And I prefer to take the medical route...I'm afflicted with Someheimers. It's not as severe as Alzheimers because sometimes you remember and sometimes you don't. Nevertheless, I proceed onward watching for such a post comment that was made supposedly on Friday.
In other unrelated news, MrsJ isn't feeling so well. Make sure to wish her a speedy recovery.
GuyK of Charming, Just Charming may need the design plans for an Ark. Seems Ernesto is heading his way. Hurricane/Tropical Storm/Tropical Depression...wtfever. That still means allot of rain!
Ok...I forgot what else I was linking here. I best go eat my lunch...
Where was I....oh yes, can't seem to remember things. Most that know me say I'm afflicted with CRS. (Can't Remember Sh&t) And I prefer to take the medical route...I'm afflicted with Someheimers. It's not as severe as Alzheimers because sometimes you remember and sometimes you don't. Nevertheless, I proceed onward watching for such a post comment that was made supposedly on Friday.
In other unrelated news, MrsJ isn't feeling so well. Make sure to wish her a speedy recovery.
GuyK of Charming, Just Charming may need the design plans for an Ark. Seems Ernesto is heading his way. Hurricane/Tropical Storm/Tropical Depression...wtfever. That still means allot of rain!
Ok...I forgot what else I was linking here. I best go eat my lunch...
Monday Mornings Ugh
I took the weekend off and accomplished absolutely nothing worthy of detailing here. I had planned on writing and stockpiling my inventory of blogs. Unfortunately, I was plain lazy and actually felt a little under the weather. I did accomplish some laundry and grocery shopping Sunday. Woohoo...such an exciting life!
I'm off to make my daily rounds of blog reading, visiting the MSM's (shudders) and working feverishly to accomplish today's tasks set before me. Maybe I'll be inspired during lunch to write...but then again I brought leftover grilled pork loins with green beans and rice. I might just have to set aside time for a power nap.
I'm off to make my daily rounds of blog reading, visiting the MSM's (shudders) and working feverishly to accomplish today's tasks set before me. Maybe I'll be inspired during lunch to write...but then again I brought leftover grilled pork loins with green beans and rice. I might just have to set aside time for a power nap.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Friday Morning
I'm really tired this morning. Allot of activities last night, a couple of them flat wore my a$$ out. Last nights homework was brutal for my son and us as well. Five and a half hours later he was finished. From what the missus told me, while I was gone he worked constantly and really applied himself. Makes me wonder/worry that if he didn't work constantly.... And I visited my cousin and his family last night. They were visiting from Oklahoma before he is shipped to Iraq courtesy of the USAF. He ships out first week of September. I'll have more posts about his deployment as the information is provided. I guess the only saving grace is he's a computer specialist, of some sort, so he probably won't be outside the perimiter of the base. All I know right now is he'll be stationed at Ali Air Base which is located in Tallil (sp?). South of Baghdad about 60 miles. Very emotional time for me since we lost a nephew back in February. I may post more on that story if I can muster the courage to write about it. I'm gonna support my cousin and his unit anyway I can. I already have some ideas brewing...mostly supporting through this blog and mailing care packages. I may even ask my horde of daily readers to support them as well. Horde...well, alright...the dozen or so. lol Of course I'll have to wait on his missus to email me all those details.
I am setting aside time this weekend to write. Probably tomorrow as its supposed to storm tomorrow and be hot. Air conditioner...don't fail me now.
Everyone have a great Friday!
I am setting aside time this weekend to write. Probably tomorrow as its supposed to storm tomorrow and be hot. Air conditioner...don't fail me now.
Everyone have a great Friday!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
What the Heck Thursday
I'm not the kinda person who relies on MSM. I believe this whole Jon Bonet suspect, Michael Karr, is a farce. And MSM has brought back into the limelight this horrific ordeal. It really pisses me off that MSM just can't leave well enough alone. All I wanna hear is when the verdict is presented.
More useful ideas for MSM...ummmm, oh here's one buried deep. *dusts off the story* Agust 15, 2006. Two missing journalists...one of MSM's own...and why is this not featured on every broadcast? Yes I realize there's been a videotape of these two. So why haven't they been returned safely?
Pluto No Longer a Planet. Having solved the creation of the Universe, WTF?
Ok...I'm gonna stop there. I'm trying to force writing and its just not happening. So heres a joke that sorta ties in with Michael Karr. Or whatever his sorry ass name is...
Lawyers should never ask a Southern Grandma a question if they aren't prepared for the answer.
In a trial, a Southern Small-Town Prosecuting Attorney called his first witness.
A grandmotherly, elderly Woman to the stand.
He approached her and asked, "Mrs. Jones, do you know me?"
She responded, "Why, yes, I do know you, Mr. Williams. I've known you since you were a young boy, and frankly, you've been a big disappointment to me. You lie, you cheat on your Wife, and you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you're a big shot when you haven't the brains to realize you never will amount to anything more than a two-bit paper pusher. Yes, I know you."
The Lawyer was stunned! Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, "Mrs. Jones, do you know the Defense Attorney?"
She again replied, "Why, yes, I do. I've known Mr. Bradley since he was a youngster, too. He's lazy, bigoted, and he has a drinking problem. He can't build a normal relationship with anyone and his law practice is one of the worst in the entire state. Not to mention he cheated on his Wife with three different Women. One of them was your Wife. Yes, I know him."
The Defense Attorney almost died.
The Judge asked both Counselors to approach the bench and, in a very quiet voice, said, "If either of you Idiots asks her if she knows me, I'll send you BOTH to the Electric Chair."
More useful ideas for MSM...ummmm, oh here's one buried deep. *dusts off the story* Agust 15, 2006. Two missing journalists...one of MSM's own...and why is this not featured on every broadcast? Yes I realize there's been a videotape of these two. So why haven't they been returned safely?
Pluto No Longer a Planet. Having solved the creation of the Universe, WTF?
Ok...I'm gonna stop there. I'm trying to force writing and its just not happening. So heres a joke that sorta ties in with Michael Karr. Or whatever his sorry ass name is...
Lawyers should never ask a Southern Grandma a question if they aren't prepared for the answer.
In a trial, a Southern Small-Town Prosecuting Attorney called his first witness.
A grandmotherly, elderly Woman to the stand.
He approached her and asked, "Mrs. Jones, do you know me?"
She responded, "Why, yes, I do know you, Mr. Williams. I've known you since you were a young boy, and frankly, you've been a big disappointment to me. You lie, you cheat on your Wife, and you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you're a big shot when you haven't the brains to realize you never will amount to anything more than a two-bit paper pusher. Yes, I know you."
The Lawyer was stunned! Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, "Mrs. Jones, do you know the Defense Attorney?"
She again replied, "Why, yes, I do. I've known Mr. Bradley since he was a youngster, too. He's lazy, bigoted, and he has a drinking problem. He can't build a normal relationship with anyone and his law practice is one of the worst in the entire state. Not to mention he cheated on his Wife with three different Women. One of them was your Wife. Yes, I know him."
The Defense Attorney almost died.
The Judge asked both Counselors to approach the bench and, in a very quiet voice, said, "If either of you Idiots asks her if she knows me, I'll send you BOTH to the Electric Chair."
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Check this Out
Go check this cartoon out. Disgruntled Truck Driver
I recognized the guy in the cartoon. Abdul Ahmagonnafartbad is Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's cousin!
I recognized the guy in the cartoon. Abdul Ahmagonnafartbad is Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's cousin!
Dog Car Safety
Bonita has a humorous pictue of what happens when you brake too fast.
Dogs Need Seatbelts
Also take the time to view her blog. She has some wonderful pictures there and I'm envious of where she lives. So many outdoor sights and activities makes it almost unbelieveable.
And she takes amazing photographs too!
Dogs Need Seatbelts
Also take the time to view her blog. She has some wonderful pictures there and I'm envious of where she lives. So many outdoor sights and activities makes it almost unbelieveable.
And she takes amazing photographs too!
Just a Rant and a Question
Just a question to my readers about your school children. I would like to know how many days a week and approximate hours those days your children spend on homework. Also whether they are in public schools, charter, home schooled or private.
I found out last night my son will have homework in all 5 subjects every night plus weekends. Wednesday being the exception with that being a study night. He is in a private school and this years homework seems to be more excruciating. We estimate a minimum of 2 hours daily not including any work that needs to be redone. So we could easily hit 3 hours plus!
I'm all for a higher education. I grew up in a household where my Dad was a teacher. He's now retired after 35 years of teaching. I guess my rant here with my sons new work load is...how are 2 working parents supposed to accomplish anything after 6:00 pm each night? And when does a 10 year old get to act like a 10 year old?
I would appreciate any comments left here and will sorta treat this like a poll. We're only in our second week of school and Dad is already frustrated.
Tall Cool Drink of Water: Homework...... shares my pain.
I found out last night my son will have homework in all 5 subjects every night plus weekends. Wednesday being the exception with that being a study night. He is in a private school and this years homework seems to be more excruciating. We estimate a minimum of 2 hours daily not including any work that needs to be redone. So we could easily hit 3 hours plus!
I'm all for a higher education. I grew up in a household where my Dad was a teacher. He's now retired after 35 years of teaching. I guess my rant here with my sons new work load is...how are 2 working parents supposed to accomplish anything after 6:00 pm each night? And when does a 10 year old get to act like a 10 year old?
I would appreciate any comments left here and will sorta treat this like a poll. We're only in our second week of school and Dad is already frustrated.
Tall Cool Drink of Water: Homework...... shares my pain.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Tuesday Morning Coffee
Me: Lets go outside for awhile
Ag: Sure..yeah yeah yeah
Me: Slow down will ya, almost tripped me
Ag: Opps, my bad
Me: Sit right here
Ag: Huh
Me: You heard me
Ag: Well...
Me: Ummm now would be good
Ag: Ok. (man he sounds serious)
Me: Doing ok? Miss me yesterday while I was gone?
Ag: Uh huh (he loves those puppy eyes)
Me: Good, missed you too.
Intermission as we watch the neighborhood traffic
Ag: Hey!
Ag:.......
Ag: HEY!
Me: Opps...what?
Ag: Been sitting here awhile
Me: Gotta go potty?
Ag: See my eyes turning yellow?
Me: Go ahead then but come right back
Intermission as I watch the neighborhood traffic
.........
Me: WTH? Hey Ag...get back here
Ag: But there is something more important...
Me: What's more important than me?
Ag: Uh....
Me: Yea...thought so...I pay for your food remember?
Ag: (tries the puppy eyes again)
Me: Not gonna work
Me: Stop it will ya already?
Ag: Heh
Intermission as we watch the neighborhood come alive
Me: Lets play catch before i gotta leave
Ag: Oh yeah yeah yeah
Me: Calm down will ya!
Ag: No way dude
Me: Dude?
Ag: ummmm
Me: Well go on out
Ag: YES
Me: Farther
Ag: Huh
Me: Here ya go
Ag: Damn him he threw it so i couldn't catch it
Me: What did ya say?
Ag: Nuttin'
Me: Ok 10 minutes long enough
Ag: Crap
Me: C'mon back inside
Ag: You can go #%*& yourself
Me: NOW!
Ag: Ok..(puppyeyes aren't gonna work now)
Me: Make sure the Demon Cat stays outta the trash and make sure you stay outta trouble. See ya when I get home Aggie!
Just gotta love a faithful canine companion! Here she is...the lovely Aggie!
Ag: Sure..yeah yeah yeah
Me: Slow down will ya, almost tripped me
Ag: Opps, my bad
Me: Sit right here
Ag: Huh
Me: You heard me
Ag: Well...
Me: Ummm now would be good
Ag: Ok. (man he sounds serious)
Me: Doing ok? Miss me yesterday while I was gone?
Ag: Uh huh (he loves those puppy eyes)
Me: Good, missed you too.
Intermission as we watch the neighborhood traffic
Ag: Hey!
Ag:.......
Ag: HEY!
Me: Opps...what?
Ag: Been sitting here awhile
Me: Gotta go potty?
Ag: See my eyes turning yellow?
Me: Go ahead then but come right back
Intermission as I watch the neighborhood traffic
.........
Me: WTH? Hey Ag...get back here
Ag: But there is something more important...
Me: What's more important than me?
Ag: Uh....
Me: Yea...thought so...I pay for your food remember?
Ag: (tries the puppy eyes again)
Me: Not gonna work
Me: Stop it will ya already?
Ag: Heh
Intermission as we watch the neighborhood come alive
Me: Lets play catch before i gotta leave
Ag: Oh yeah yeah yeah
Me: Calm down will ya!
Ag: No way dude
Me: Dude?
Ag: ummmm
Me: Well go on out
Ag: YES
Me: Farther
Ag: Huh
Me: Here ya go
Ag: Damn him he threw it so i couldn't catch it
Me: What did ya say?
Ag: Nuttin'
Me: Ok 10 minutes long enough
Ag: Crap
Me: C'mon back inside
Ag: You can go #%*& yourself
Me: NOW!
Ag: Ok..(puppyeyes aren't gonna work now)
Me: Make sure the Demon Cat stays outta the trash and make sure you stay outta trouble. See ya when I get home Aggie!
Just gotta love a faithful canine companion! Here she is...the lovely Aggie!
Monday, August 21, 2006
A Musical Intermission
The last day of the 150th Indiana State Fair was yesterday. As I finished my morning obligations, I headed over towards the Pioneer Village. I look forward to visiting this area each year and I still walk away having seen or learned something new. Walking into the Pioneer Village is like taking a journey back in time. Everyone dresses in era clothing and everything is handmade the traditional way. I'm always impressed with the blacksmithing and woodworking folks. How anyone can take something in its raw form and transform it into a work of art is truly amazing. And let us not forget those ladies who sew quilts. These quilts are sewn by hand without the use of machines. I'm positive my fingers would be arthritic within weeks and my eyesight would become minimal.
The highlight of my ventures through the Pioneer Village is the bluegrass singers and instrumentalists that envelop the air with enchanting melodies from days gone by. Yesterday’s group was rather large and as presented by the regulars, including guests of notoriety. I’ll admit I’m not one who remembers names but their notoriety was within the local bluegrass music community. I grew up listening to country/bluegrass music. My Grandmother, God rest her soul, was a huge fan and we spent many a Saturday night watching Hee-Haw. Ok…enough about me…Fiddles, mandolin, guitar, bass fiddle, banjo, autoharp and many more instruments I’m failing to mention entertained me for 20 minutes. And of course there were the singers! I listened to The Indiana Waltz, Mississippi Sawyer and Beautiful Maggie. There were even a few couples dancing during Indiana Waltz and Mississippi Sawyer. I would’ve participated only if I knew how to dance. The crowd’s mood was refreshing and full of enthusiasm. Each song ended with an applause from the rather large crowd of 50 people or so. They continued playing as I strolled through the building stopping to talk and admire the handywork that time has almost forgotten. It's a shame that most of these fine examples of workmanship will slowly dissipate as time marches forward. History has a way of repeating itself and I hope that history will someday breathe new life into workmanship of days gone by.
I left the area, with a renewed spirit, and returned to my obligations. Unfortunately, by the time my afternoon shift had concluded, the players and singers had finished for the evening. I bid adieu to the 150th Indiana State Fair leaving satisfied and with fulfillment of learning new things plus spending quality time with family and friends.
Monday
Ok...which is better...post something you've written but not happy with the results OR post it after your happy with it?
Mondays Suck!!!
I'm exhausted from spending my entire weekend at the fair. I need a vacation. lol
Mondays Suck!!!
I'm exhausted from spending my entire weekend at the fair. I need a vacation. lol
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Sacrilegious
I attended the Indiana State Fair again today and ran across something that chilled me. I never thought it possible that something so sacred would actually be tarnished at "MY" Indiana State Fair.
As some of you may remember, or not, I grew up in a farming community. We didn't have the farm acreage that you might think...3 acres to be exact. heh But I had allot of friends whose families operated large farms. We raised a small sheep flock and a couple of beef cattle. I also was apart of 4-H and spent many summers at the fair. So farming, livestock and the fair have always held a special place within my heart and soul. I'm even venturing back to the fair tomorrow. Well, working there too. But I still have to walk through the Pioneer Village and see all the sights for the 30th time in my life. And I must sit and listen to the bluegrass players strum and sing their enchanting melodies.
Ok...where was I? Oh yes...sacrilegious! Its a conspiracy, a sacrilege and a prime example of how this country doesn't show the proper respect for our history. What is the World coming too? Why must things change? Why or why?!?!?!?!?!
I ventured over to the livestock barns today. Saw some old friends in both the Swine and Sheep barns. I cruised through the horse barn (man them horses sure are big) and headed for the Cattle barn. I entered the Cattle barn expecting to see cattle and old friends. As I entered, I dropped the remainder of my Lemon Shake-up. I stood there stunned...shocked...in disbelief...I walked quickly through the entire barn. My heart was racing, I broke into a sweat and I figured I was hallucinating from the sugar overdose of that Elephant Ear washed down by a Lemon Shake-up.
There were no cattle?!?!?!?!?!
The barn was full of Llamas!!!!!!!!! WTF!?!?! Who shows llamas at a State Fair? What are llamas good for anyways? And what are they doing in the Cattle barn!?!?!?! Where are MY cattle?!?!?!?! Two days left of the fair and NO cattle. Its sacrilegious...sacrilegious I tell you! I really need to read the fair schedule more closely next year.
I shall return tomorrow to fulfill my obligations and make my rounds through the Pioneer Village but I'll do so with a heavy heart.
As some of you may remember, or not, I grew up in a farming community. We didn't have the farm acreage that you might think...3 acres to be exact. heh But I had allot of friends whose families operated large farms. We raised a small sheep flock and a couple of beef cattle. I also was apart of 4-H and spent many summers at the fair. So farming, livestock and the fair have always held a special place within my heart and soul. I'm even venturing back to the fair tomorrow. Well, working there too. But I still have to walk through the Pioneer Village and see all the sights for the 30th time in my life. And I must sit and listen to the bluegrass players strum and sing their enchanting melodies.
Ok...where was I? Oh yes...sacrilegious! Its a conspiracy, a sacrilege and a prime example of how this country doesn't show the proper respect for our history. What is the World coming too? Why must things change? Why or why?!?!?!?!?!
I ventured over to the livestock barns today. Saw some old friends in both the Swine and Sheep barns. I cruised through the horse barn (man them horses sure are big) and headed for the Cattle barn. I entered the Cattle barn expecting to see cattle and old friends. As I entered, I dropped the remainder of my Lemon Shake-up. I stood there stunned...shocked...in disbelief...I walked quickly through the entire barn. My heart was racing, I broke into a sweat and I figured I was hallucinating from the sugar overdose of that Elephant Ear washed down by a Lemon Shake-up.
There were no cattle?!?!?!?!?!
The barn was full of Llamas!!!!!!!!! WTF!?!?! Who shows llamas at a State Fair? What are llamas good for anyways? And what are they doing in the Cattle barn!?!?!?! Where are MY cattle?!?!?!?! Two days left of the fair and NO cattle. Its sacrilegious...sacrilegious I tell you! I really need to read the fair schedule more closely next year.
I shall return tomorrow to fulfill my obligations and make my rounds through the Pioneer Village but I'll do so with a heavy heart.
1,000 Hits
1,000 Hits as of today!!!
Allot of my daily reads have been posting about search hits. Here are a few random and unique searches that have hit my site. The follwing links take you to the actual search.
Searching for Confused Cows...WTF? #2 on da list!
Summer Cold Remedies #2 on da list again!
You Go Home Now #1!!!! Umm the only one...weird.
Patriot Guard Riders #3 on da list!
Dazed and Confuzed #39 and climbing...lol
I know...I know...1,000 hits, so what. Its the little things that amuse me.
Allot of my daily reads have been posting about search hits. Here are a few random and unique searches that have hit my site. The follwing links take you to the actual search.
Searching for Confused Cows...WTF? #2 on da list!
Summer Cold Remedies #2 on da list again!
You Go Home Now #1!!!! Umm the only one...weird.
Patriot Guard Riders #3 on da list!
Dazed and Confuzed #39 and climbing...lol
I know...I know...1,000 hits, so what. Its the little things that amuse me.
Friday, August 18, 2006
TGIF
I do love ham and beans with cornbread. However, the pic below suggests that precautions should be taken when indulging in such a feast.
Looks like my cat started without me. I hope the demon cat didn't drink all my booze.
Looks like my cat started without me. I hope the demon cat didn't drink all my booze.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
You Know It's Bad When....
...a favorite childrens book starts dissing aging.
And this one made me chuckle...since when did Doctors start making full physicals at the airport?
And this one made me chuckle...since when did Doctors start making full physicals at the airport?
Weekly Tongue Twister 8-17-06
Silly Sally swiftly shooed seven silly sheep.
The seven silly sheep Silly Sally shooed
shilly-shallied south.
These sheep shouldn't sleep in a shack;
Sheep should sleep in a shed.
If you'll excuse me, I need to wipe the spit from my monitor now.
The seven silly sheep Silly Sally shooed
shilly-shallied south.
These sheep shouldn't sleep in a shack;
Sheep should sleep in a shed.
If you'll excuse me, I need to wipe the spit from my monitor now.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Follow-up
It's Wednesday...hump day as we call it. This Wednesday is a gorgeous day. Sunshine, high expected of 85, low humidity and overall a great day, so far. Last Wednesday was dreary and allot of issues were weighing heavy in my thoughts. Stop right there…no mind reading today. I’ve got the tin foil hat on blocking all your ESP powers!
Anyways, a big load was purged from my thoughts yesterday. I visited the doctor, yet again, for a check-up on my blood pressure. Good news….with the help of medication, more exercise and dieting my BP is down to 130/82! I realize it’s not normal but it sure beats the 164/110 2-1/2 weeks ago. And I lost weight…7 pounds in 2-1/2 weeks isn’t bad. Although lately I’ve been craving carrots and weaving Easter Egg baskets. hahahaha Another 5 pounds or so and I’ll lighten up my diet a notch.
And yes, to my daily readers, I will be celebrating my good fortune with one Elephant Ear at the State Fair this weekend. We went last weekend and I didn’t succumb to the fair food smorgasbord. I ate healthy and sparingly. What? Yes, you can eat healthy at the Indiana State Fair if you look hard enough. I found a stand that sold rather generous portions of fruit bowls. And let me tell you…that was the best watermelon I’ve had recently! I also found the lamb burger stand. I grew up eating lamb so having that one burger brought back salivating memories. I heard rumors of an Elk burger stand…but I didn’t find it, yet. And yes…I washed all my healthy food with a drink of Lemon Shake-up…I needed the sugar for energy ya know.
Someone told me recently that taking new meds, dieting and revising your life can be depressing. Amen to that…but it sure beats the alternative! It sure makes a world of difference when you have family and friends supporting you. Life is a game we eventually lose anyways. So why not live for the moment and send the game into overtime?
As I always say: Reality sucks and life goes on.
Anyways, a big load was purged from my thoughts yesterday. I visited the doctor, yet again, for a check-up on my blood pressure. Good news….with the help of medication, more exercise and dieting my BP is down to 130/82! I realize it’s not normal but it sure beats the 164/110 2-1/2 weeks ago. And I lost weight…7 pounds in 2-1/2 weeks isn’t bad. Although lately I’ve been craving carrots and weaving Easter Egg baskets. hahahaha Another 5 pounds or so and I’ll lighten up my diet a notch.
And yes, to my daily readers, I will be celebrating my good fortune with one Elephant Ear at the State Fair this weekend. We went last weekend and I didn’t succumb to the fair food smorgasbord. I ate healthy and sparingly. What? Yes, you can eat healthy at the Indiana State Fair if you look hard enough. I found a stand that sold rather generous portions of fruit bowls. And let me tell you…that was the best watermelon I’ve had recently! I also found the lamb burger stand. I grew up eating lamb so having that one burger brought back salivating memories. I heard rumors of an Elk burger stand…but I didn’t find it, yet. And yes…I washed all my healthy food with a drink of Lemon Shake-up…I needed the sugar for energy ya know.
Someone told me recently that taking new meds, dieting and revising your life can be depressing. Amen to that…but it sure beats the alternative! It sure makes a world of difference when you have family and friends supporting you. Life is a game we eventually lose anyways. So why not live for the moment and send the game into overtime?
As I always say: Reality sucks and life goes on.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Parade - Part II
Ok…where did I leave off the last post? Oh yes, revel in my moment of elation. The parade started and I was enjoying the cool breeze from the tailgate. I had two handfuls of candy ready to toss to gleeful children. This won’t be difficult, I thought, as I’m riding and not walking. As we approached the crowd, the ride captain asked that I act as tailgunner, on foot, and toss candy while walking. Not a bad idea since there was another pick-up truck/trailer bringing up the rear. (What I didn’t know was that truck had a hard top cover, ugh) I also failed to realize the parade was approximately 2 miles in length. They don’t call me The Dazed and Confuzed One for nothing.
It wasn’t all that bad walking and tossing candy to the kids. It brought back fond memories of my childhood. And it had been over 20 years since I’d been to a parade. As the parade progressed, the roaring of the bikes became background noise. Tossing candy to the older kids and handing suckers to the toddlers filled a void. Handing candy to elderly folks that accepted with enthusiasm and which obviously brought them joy. It’s not very often that anyone can bring joy to strangers by the simplest of means.
What filled my soul with joy and amazement were the military personnel watching the parade that shook each riders hand and thanked them as they rode past. I made a point to shake each ones (military) hand also, thanking them for their dedication and service. I lost a nephew in Iraq back in February 2006 and wished to gawd that I'd had known about the Patriot Guard Riders. Issues would've been dealt with simply and respectfully. The only saving grace that day at Arlington National Cemetery was the weather conditions. I'm sure that deterred some protesters and delayed allot of them traveling. Its one point to participate in an activity and it’s another to be thanked and appreciated openly. As we made our way down Main Street, we approached the announcer’s table. I barely heard them announcing the Patriot Guard Riders above the roaring and ensuing crowd applause. As we rounded the corner, it seemed the parade went faster. I was having troubles keeping my tailgunner position and that’s when I realized the tailgunner pick-up had no room for me. I quickly fell behind and timidly assumed a support role. Next thing I knew, I was 4 blocks behind and no chance to resume my tailgunner position.
Needless to say, I was last man back to the staging area and winded. We sat around for 30 minutes or so, thank gawd, and talked about the day’s event. I was thanked by most of the riders and informed I could assist them anytime. I’m even contemplating joining the PGR in a support type capacity. As I talked with one rider, he stated it was nice doing events like the parade. Most events they attend are solemn and needless to say, depressing. It was their way to let off some steam, enjoy a good days ride and revitalize the camaraderie they all appreciate. These riders are dedicated to their cause and have the utmost respect for our military personnel that give a little and those that gave their all. I for one, have a new respect for the Patriot Guard Riders. And I will venture to say, the community has gained a new appreciation and respect for these Patriot Guard Riders. Thank you Pinky and DNR for allowing me to participate in this event. An event that will be a cherished memory.
“We must build a new world, a far better world - one in which the eternal dignity of man is respected.” ~ Harry S Truman
Monday, August 14, 2006
Only a Biker knows...
...why a dog sticks his head out of a car window.
I've always thought that motorcycles are the best therapy, a lot cheaper than psychiatrists. I used to own a motorcycle, in my younger days, and still have that burning desire for the open road. Although we were a cultural mixture of riders and not even closely resembling a biker group, we still shared the camaraderie. And this past weekend was no exception. Good friends of mine (Pinky and DNR) belong to the Patriot Guard and I always keep abreast of their events. I always hear of good times, people and food. They invited me to attend a Summerfest Parade in North Manchester, Indiana. The local event planners had asked the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their parade to help honor the military personnel of past, present and future.
As I stated in my other post, I was apprehensive at first but that feeling quickly dissolved minutes after our arrival. Yes, I’ll admit, it was a little overwhelming arriving at the staging house with 20 or so motorcycles parked out front. Seeing most everyone in leather and riding apparel left one’s imagination to run wild. However, after many introductions I felt at ease. Each introduction was accompanied by a smile, firm handshake and a respectful “look in the eye”. And all the introductions were warm and genuine. Of course I was the outsider…but it didn’t remain that way for long. I was asked to participate in the parade. I had two responsibilities; 1. Throw candy to the kids and 2. Make sure the riders were safe and hydrated. Easy enough…ride in the pick-up truck leading the procession and make sure everyone has a good time.
As the parade assembled at the high school, the Patriot Guard Riders opened the trailer and handed everyone Old Glory. We were asked to line the street and present the Stars and Stripes to the local VFW float. What a glorious moment…to see each and every one of the VFW participants stand and salute the Patriot Guard Riders followed by applause from the parade participants.
Apparently I resembled an outsider even mingling with the Patriot Guard. I was christened hastily by an arm band stating I belonged with the Patriot Guard Riders. I’m sure my elation was showing as a picture was taken. I won’t post it here…I’d rather revel in the moment privately, so to speak.
I'll post more later...Part II with more pictures.
I've always thought that motorcycles are the best therapy, a lot cheaper than psychiatrists. I used to own a motorcycle, in my younger days, and still have that burning desire for the open road. Although we were a cultural mixture of riders and not even closely resembling a biker group, we still shared the camaraderie. And this past weekend was no exception. Good friends of mine (Pinky and DNR) belong to the Patriot Guard and I always keep abreast of their events. I always hear of good times, people and food. They invited me to attend a Summerfest Parade in North Manchester, Indiana. The local event planners had asked the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their parade to help honor the military personnel of past, present and future.
As I stated in my other post, I was apprehensive at first but that feeling quickly dissolved minutes after our arrival. Yes, I’ll admit, it was a little overwhelming arriving at the staging house with 20 or so motorcycles parked out front. Seeing most everyone in leather and riding apparel left one’s imagination to run wild. However, after many introductions I felt at ease. Each introduction was accompanied by a smile, firm handshake and a respectful “look in the eye”. And all the introductions were warm and genuine. Of course I was the outsider…but it didn’t remain that way for long. I was asked to participate in the parade. I had two responsibilities; 1. Throw candy to the kids and 2. Make sure the riders were safe and hydrated. Easy enough…ride in the pick-up truck leading the procession and make sure everyone has a good time.
As the parade assembled at the high school, the Patriot Guard Riders opened the trailer and handed everyone Old Glory. We were asked to line the street and present the Stars and Stripes to the local VFW float. What a glorious moment…to see each and every one of the VFW participants stand and salute the Patriot Guard Riders followed by applause from the parade participants.
Apparently I resembled an outsider even mingling with the Patriot Guard. I was christened hastily by an arm band stating I belonged with the Patriot Guard Riders. I’m sure my elation was showing as a picture was taken. I won’t post it here…I’d rather revel in the moment privately, so to speak.
I'll post more later...Part II with more pictures.
Wheeew
A busy weekend...as soon as I recover both mentally/physically, I'll get back to posting. Right now my thoughts are scattered, at best, and I'm not sure if I'll stay awake today at work.
Please check this site out:Patriot Guard I'll be posting about one of their events I attended. I was apprehensive at first but left with a renewed respect for them and our soldiers they so unselfishly support.
I also attended the Indiana State Fair Sunday. Well worth the hassle of crowds and dieting around fair food. More on that later...
Please check this site out:Patriot Guard I'll be posting about one of their events I attended. I was apprehensive at first but left with a renewed respect for them and our soldiers they so unselfishly support.
I also attended the Indiana State Fair Sunday. Well worth the hassle of crowds and dieting around fair food. More on that later...
Friday, August 11, 2006
Carnival of Comedy
Carnival of Comedy #65
Please go visit this link for some good laughs. The host even rates the entries. Yours truly made it to mid-level of humorous.
Please go visit this link for some good laughs. The host even rates the entries. Yours truly made it to mid-level of humorous.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Wednesday
It's Wednesday...hump day as we call it. It's raining here and a rather dreary day. I hope it stops sometime soon since I heard my grass growing this morning while sipping coffee. I welcome the reprieve from the heat but the weatherman says it shall return like MacArthur next week. School starts Monday for Lil Dazd...he's anxious and apprehensive at the same time. He wants to see his friends but he has enjoyed his summer vacation. At 10 years old there is always mixed emotions...at least at my house. I remember being like that at his age. I just told him this morning..."Good thing you didn't go to school when I did. I walked 3 miles uphill to school every day and back home 3 miles uphill." I left for work and he had a puzzled look on his face. This should be interesting when I get home.
I've not had much to blog about and quite frankly, today I'd rather read other people's blogs.
I've not had much to blog about and quite frankly, today I'd rather read other people's blogs.
Weekly tongue Twister 8-09-06
A big black bug bit a big black bear,
made the big black bear bleed blood.
Ouch!
made the big black bear bleed blood.
Ouch!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Word Scramble
My favorite past-time is word scrambles. Give it a whirl and post your answers in the comments. I'll be posting the answers later this week.
1. tipnploaaci is application.
2. geiymssolo is seismology.
3. annmtibdo is badminton.
4. eoiirpglychsh is hieroglyphics.
5. edtmatianc is admittance.
6. ltsocponioam is cosmopolitan.
7. rcubhe is cherub.
8. plithogayrh is lithography.
9. aitbnoehnri is hibernation.
10. ooccynpah is cacophony.
Updated 8/10/06
1. tipnploaaci is application.
2. geiymssolo is seismology.
3. annmtibdo is badminton.
4. eoiirpglychsh is hieroglyphics.
5. edtmatianc is admittance.
6. ltsocponioam is cosmopolitan.
7. rcubhe is cherub.
8. plithogayrh is lithography.
9. aitbnoehnri is hibernation.
10. ooccynpah is cacophony.
Updated 8/10/06
Monday, August 07, 2006
Stressed spelled backwards is desserts. Coincidence? I think not!
It's only been a week since I've started eating healthier. But a few things I've noticed: I'm a little snappier than normal, if I'm not busy I'm in a funk and I'm bored. On the positive side: I'm feeling better. Hmmm...3 vs 1. Not a very good ratio but I'm working on it. And I won't even mention the cravings for a bacon cheeseburger and a Frosty. lol I've not weighed myself because I wanna wait until my doc appointment next week. I want it to be a surprise for me and hopefully a congrats from him. I set these little milestones in hopes of keeping positive and upbeat.
I researched most of the day Saturday online for receipe websites. I still wanna maintain my diet but not psychologically purge my sweet-tooth. I've run across some "guilt-free" brownies that leaves me not wanting them. One receipe called for using cottage cheese. Cottage cheese...wtf? I'll pass on that one. I ran across a Chicken Gumbo that I'm gonna try making this week. If the receipe turns out I'll be posting it here.
I'm trying to practice the "no white diet" to reduce my carb intake. No white bread, potatoes, white rice, etc... I'm also implementing a lower sugar intake for a quicker weight loss. Interesting facts given to me and verified: Cooked peas and carrots break down into sugars during the digestion. What I haven't verified is raw peas and carrots. (I can easily eat one pound of raw carrots myself) Almonds and walnuts, in modest intake, can help reduce your cholesterol levels while providing a staple fiber intake. Apricots are also great for reducing cholesterol levels.
Source
Red meat...I researched buffalo/bison meat online. Man, I need to open one of these farms. Online orders for the equivalent of hamburger was $5.00 a pound, minimum. Jebus! And you can't beat the lower fat content of this kinda meat. I'm gonna have to check here locally, while at the State Fair, for a reputable vendor with decent prices. I may even purchase a lamb for lamb burgers and chops....yummmm. Venison would be good for me too, but I'm hoping the family will like buffalo and lamb. Venison isn't on the missus' "things to eat weekly" list. Been there, done that.
Source
Combining two different types of diets may not be advantageous. But if I can psychologically convince myself that I can do this, then maybe in a short time I will find exactly what works for me. Right now I'm just "winging" it and hopefully lose 5 pounds by next Tuesday.
If anyone knows any great receipe sites for low cholesterol, pleace leave me a comment or email me.
I researched most of the day Saturday online for receipe websites. I still wanna maintain my diet but not psychologically purge my sweet-tooth. I've run across some "guilt-free" brownies that leaves me not wanting them. One receipe called for using cottage cheese. Cottage cheese...wtf? I'll pass on that one. I ran across a Chicken Gumbo that I'm gonna try making this week. If the receipe turns out I'll be posting it here.
I'm trying to practice the "no white diet" to reduce my carb intake. No white bread, potatoes, white rice, etc... I'm also implementing a lower sugar intake for a quicker weight loss. Interesting facts given to me and verified: Cooked peas and carrots break down into sugars during the digestion. What I haven't verified is raw peas and carrots. (I can easily eat one pound of raw carrots myself) Almonds and walnuts, in modest intake, can help reduce your cholesterol levels while providing a staple fiber intake. Apricots are also great for reducing cholesterol levels.
Source
Red meat...I researched buffalo/bison meat online. Man, I need to open one of these farms. Online orders for the equivalent of hamburger was $5.00 a pound, minimum. Jebus! And you can't beat the lower fat content of this kinda meat. I'm gonna have to check here locally, while at the State Fair, for a reputable vendor with decent prices. I may even purchase a lamb for lamb burgers and chops....yummmm. Venison would be good for me too, but I'm hoping the family will like buffalo and lamb. Venison isn't on the missus' "things to eat weekly" list. Been there, done that.
Source
Combining two different types of diets may not be advantageous. But if I can psychologically convince myself that I can do this, then maybe in a short time I will find exactly what works for me. Right now I'm just "winging" it and hopefully lose 5 pounds by next Tuesday.
If anyone knows any great receipe sites for low cholesterol, pleace leave me a comment or email me.
Carnival of Family Life #13
Please visit The Pink Diary for this weeks Carnival of Family Life #13.
Yours truly submitted this article: Morning Serenity
Yours truly submitted this article: Morning Serenity
Saturday, August 05, 2006
A Riddle for the Day
1. What can not be bought, can not be sold, even if it's made of gold?
2. What is round as a dishpan, deep as a tub, and still the oceans couldn't fill it up?
Post your answers in the comments.
******Update******
The answers:
1. Heart - Good job Eric
2. Sieve
2. What is round as a dishpan, deep as a tub, and still the oceans couldn't fill it up?
Post your answers in the comments.
******Update******
The answers:
1. Heart - Good job Eric
2. Sieve
Today's Medical Terminology 101 - Cholesterol
Cholesterol
A white crystalline substance, C27H45OH, found in animal tissues and various foods, that is normally synthesized by the liver and is important as a constituent of cell membranes and a precursor to steroid hormones. Its level in the bloodstream can influence the pathogenesis of certain conditions, such as the development of atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease.
[cholester(in), former name for cholesterol (CHOLE– + Greek stereos, solid + –IN) + –OL1 (so called because it was first found in gallstones).]
Cholesterol is a sterol (a combination steroid and alcohol) and a lipid found in the cell membranes of all body tissues, and transported in the blood plasma of all animals. The name originates from the Greek chole- (bile) and stereos (solid), and the chemical suffix -ol for an alcohol, as researchers first identified cholesterol (C27H45OH) in solid form in gallstones in 1784.
Most cholesterol is not dietary in origin; it is synthesized internally. Cholesterol is present in higher concentrations in tissues which either produce more or have more densely-packed membranes, for example, the liver, spinal cord and brain, and also in atheroma. Cholesterol plays a central role in many biochemical processes, but is best known for the association of cardiovascular disease with various lipoprotein cholesterol transport patterns and high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Often, when most doctors talk to their patients about the health concerns of cholesterol, they are referring to "bad cholesterol", or low-density lipoprotein (LDL). "Good cholesterol" is high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
Physiology
Function
Cholesterol is required to build and maintain cell membranes; it makes the membrane's fluidity - degree of viscosity - stable over bigger temperature intervals (the hydroxyl group on cholesterol interacts with the phosphate head of the membrane, and the bulky steroid and the hydrocarbon chain is embedded in the membrane). Some research indicates that cholesterol may act as an antioxidant[1]. Cholesterol also aids in the manufacture of bile (which helps digest fats), and is also important for the metabolism of fat soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K. It is the major precursor for the synthesis of vitamin D, of the various steroid hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone in the adrenal glands, and of the sex hormones progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. Further recent research
redirect Template:Citation needed shows that cholesterol has an important role for the brain synapses as well as in the immune system, including protecting against cancer.
Recently, cholesterol has also been implicated in cell signalling processes, where it has been suggested that it forms lipid rafts in the plasma membrane. It also reduces the permeability of the plasma membrane to proton and sodium ions.
Properties
Cholesterol is minimally soluble in water; it cannot dissolve and travel in the water-based bloodstream. Instead, it is transported in the bloodstream by lipoproteins - protein "molecular-suitcases" that are water-soluble and carry cholesterol and fats internally. The proteins forming the surface of the given lipoprotein particle determine from what cells cholesterol will be removed and to where it will be supplied.
The largest lipoproteins, which primarily transport fats from the intestinal mucosa to the liver, are called chylomicrons. They carry mostly triglyceride fats and cholesterol (that are from food and especially internal cholesterol secreted by the liver into the bile). In the liver, chylomicron particles give up triglycerides and some cholesterol, and are converted into low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, which carry triglycerides and cholesterol on to other body cells. In healthy individuals the LDL particles are large and relatively few in number. In contrast, large numbers of small LDL particles are strongly associated with promoting atheromatous disease within the arteries. (Lack of information on LDL particle number and size is one of the major problems of conventional lipid tests.)
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles transport cholesterol back to the liver for excretion, but vary considerably in their effectiveness for doing this. Having large numbers of large HDL particles correlates with better health outcomes. In contrast, having small amounts of large HDL particles is strongly associated with atheromatous disease progression within the arteries. (Note that the concentration of total HDL does not indicate the actual number of functional large HDL particles, another of the major problems of conventional lipid tests.)
The cholesterol molecules present in LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol are identical. The difference between the two types of cholesterol derives from the carrier protein molecules; the lipoprotein component.
Synthesis and intake
Cholesterol is primarily synthesized from acetyl CoA through the HMG-CoA reductase pathway in many cells and tissues. About 20–25% of total daily production (~1 g/day) occurs in the liver; other sites of higher synthesis rates include the intestines, adrenal glands and reproductive organs. For a person of about 150 pounds (68 kg), typical total body content is about 35 g, typical daily internal production is about 1 g and typical daily dietary intake is 200 to 300 mg. Of the 1,200 to 1,300 mg input to the intestines (via bile production and food intake), about 50% is reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
Konrad Bloch and Feodor Lynen shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1964 for their discoveries concerning the mechanism and regulation of the cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism.
Regulation
Biosynthesis of cholesterol is directly regulated by the cholesterol levels present, though the homeostatic mechanisms involved are only partly understood. A higher intake from food leads to a net decrease in endogenous production, while lower intake from food has the opposite effect. The main regulatory mechanism is the sensing of intracellular cholesterol in the endoplasmic reticulum by the protein SREBP (Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 and 2). In the presence of cholesterol, SREBP is bound to two other proteins: SCAP (SREBP-cleavage activating protein) and Insig-1. When cholesterol levels fall, Insig-1 dissociates from the SREBP-SCAP complex, allowing the complex to migrate to the Golgi apparatus, where SREBP is cleaved by S1P and S2P (site 1/2 protease), two enzymes that are activated by SCAP when cholesterol levels are low. The cleaved SREBP then migrates to the nucleus and acts as a transcription factor to bind to the SRE (sterol regulatory element) of a number of genes to stimulate their transcription. Among the genes transcribed are the LDL receptor and HMG-CoA reductase. The former scavenges circulating LDL from the bloodstream, whereas HMG-CoA reductase leads to an increase of endogenous production of cholesterol. An excess of cholesterol can build up in the bloodstream and accumulates on the walls of arteries. This build up is what can lead to clogged ateries and eventually to heart attacks and strokes.
A large part of this mechanism was clarified by Dr Michael S. Brown and Dr Joseph L. Goldstein in the 1970s. They received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work in 1985.
The average amount of blood cholesterol varies with age, typically rising gradually until one is about 60 years old. There appear to be seasonal variations in cholesterol levels in humans, more, on average, in winter.
Excretion
Cholesterol is excreted from the liver in bile and reabsorbed from the intestines. Under certain circumstances, when more concentrated, as in the gallbladder, it crystallises and is the major constituent of most gallstones, although lecithin and bilirubin gallstones also occur less frequently.
Role in Atheromatous Disease
In conditions with elevated concentrations of oxidized LDL particles, especially small LDL particles, cholesterol promotes atheroma formation in the walls of arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which is the principal cause of coronary heart disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, HDL particles (especially large HDL) have been the only identified mechanism by which cholesterol can be removed from atheroma. Increased concentrations of HDL correlate with lower rates of atheroma progressions and even regression.
Of the lipoprotein fractions, LDL, IDL and VLDL are regarded as atherogenic (prone to cause atherosclerosis). Levels of these fractions, rather than the total cholesterol level, correllate with the extent and progress of atherosclerosis. Conversely, the total cholesterol can be within normal limits, yet be made up primarily of small LDL and small HDL particles, under which conditions atheroma growth rates would still be high. In contrast, however, if LDL particle number is low (mostly large particles) and a large percentage of the HDL particles are large, then atheroma growth rates are usually low, even negative, for any given total cholesterol concentration.
These effects are further complicated by the relative concentration of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in the endothelium, since ADMA down-regulates production of nitric oxide, a relaxant of the endothelium. Thus, high levels of ADMA, associated with high oxidized levels of LDL pose a heightened risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Multiple human trials utilizing HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or statins, have repeatedly confirmed that changing lipoprotein transport patterns from unhealthy to healthier patterns significantly lower cardiovascular disease event rates, even for people with cholesterol values currently considered low for adults; however, no statistically significant mortality benefit has been derived to date by lowering cholesterol using medications in asymptomatic people, i.e., no heart disease, no history of heart attack, etc.
Some of the better-designed recent randomized human outcome trials studying patients with coronary artery disease or its risk equivalents include the Heart Protection Study (HPS), the PROVE-IT trial, and the TNT trial. In addition, there are trials that have looked at the effect of lowering LDL as well as raising HDL and atheroma burden using intravascular ultrasound. Small trials have shown prevention of progression of coronary artery disease and possibly a slight reduction in atheroma burden with successful treatment of an abnormal lipid profile.
However, as today's testing methods determine LDL ("bad") and HDL ("good") cholesterol separately, this simplistic view has become somewhat outdated. The desirable LDL level is considered to be less than 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L), although a newer target of <70 mg/dL can be considered in higher risk individuals based on some of the above-mentioned trials. A ratio of total cholesterol to HDL —another useful measure— of far less than 5:1 is thought to be healthier. Of note, typical LDL values for children before fatty streaks begin to develop is 35 mg/dL.
Patients should be aware that most testing methods for LDL do not actually measure LDL in their blood, much less particle size. For cost reasons, LDL values have long been estimated using the Friedewald formula: [total cholesterol] − [total HDL] − 20% of the triglyceride value = estimated LDL.
Increasing Clinical Evidence needed has strongly supported the greater predictive value of more-sophisticated testing that directly measures both LDL and HDL particle concentrations and size, as opposed to the more usual estimates/measures of the total cholesterol carried within LDL particles or the total HDL concentration.
Hypocholesterolemia
Although relatively rare, an excessively low cholesterol level (hypocholesterolemia) (readings below 160 mg/dL) have been linked with an increase the risk of depression, cancer, hemorrhagic stroke, respiratory diseases.
Possible causes of low cholesterol are:
-hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland
-liver disease
-malabsorption
-inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestines
-malnutrition
-celiac disease
-abetalipoproteinemia- A rare genetic disease that causes cholesterol readings below 50mg/dl. It is found mostly in Jewish populations.
-hypobetalipoproteinemia-A genetic disease that causes cholesterol readings below 50mg/dl
-manganese deficiency
Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Some cholesterol derivatives, (among others simple cholesteric lipids) are known to generate liquid crystalline phase called cholesteric. The cholesteric phase is in fact a chiral nematic phase, and changes colour when its temperature changes. Therefore, cholesterol derivatives are commonly used as temperature-sensitive dyes, in liquid crystal thermometers, and in temperature-sensitive paints.
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors.
A white crystalline substance, C27H45OH, found in animal tissues and various foods, that is normally synthesized by the liver and is important as a constituent of cell membranes and a precursor to steroid hormones. Its level in the bloodstream can influence the pathogenesis of certain conditions, such as the development of atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease.
[cholester(in), former name for cholesterol (CHOLE– + Greek stereos, solid + –IN) + –OL1 (so called because it was first found in gallstones).]
Cholesterol is a sterol (a combination steroid and alcohol) and a lipid found in the cell membranes of all body tissues, and transported in the blood plasma of all animals. The name originates from the Greek chole- (bile) and stereos (solid), and the chemical suffix -ol for an alcohol, as researchers first identified cholesterol (C27H45OH) in solid form in gallstones in 1784.
Most cholesterol is not dietary in origin; it is synthesized internally. Cholesterol is present in higher concentrations in tissues which either produce more or have more densely-packed membranes, for example, the liver, spinal cord and brain, and also in atheroma. Cholesterol plays a central role in many biochemical processes, but is best known for the association of cardiovascular disease with various lipoprotein cholesterol transport patterns and high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Often, when most doctors talk to their patients about the health concerns of cholesterol, they are referring to "bad cholesterol", or low-density lipoprotein (LDL). "Good cholesterol" is high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
Physiology
Function
Cholesterol is required to build and maintain cell membranes; it makes the membrane's fluidity - degree of viscosity - stable over bigger temperature intervals (the hydroxyl group on cholesterol interacts with the phosphate head of the membrane, and the bulky steroid and the hydrocarbon chain is embedded in the membrane). Some research indicates that cholesterol may act as an antioxidant[1]. Cholesterol also aids in the manufacture of bile (which helps digest fats), and is also important for the metabolism of fat soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K. It is the major precursor for the synthesis of vitamin D, of the various steroid hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone in the adrenal glands, and of the sex hormones progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. Further recent research
redirect Template:Citation needed shows that cholesterol has an important role for the brain synapses as well as in the immune system, including protecting against cancer.
Recently, cholesterol has also been implicated in cell signalling processes, where it has been suggested that it forms lipid rafts in the plasma membrane. It also reduces the permeability of the plasma membrane to proton and sodium ions.
Properties
Cholesterol is minimally soluble in water; it cannot dissolve and travel in the water-based bloodstream. Instead, it is transported in the bloodstream by lipoproteins - protein "molecular-suitcases" that are water-soluble and carry cholesterol and fats internally. The proteins forming the surface of the given lipoprotein particle determine from what cells cholesterol will be removed and to where it will be supplied.
The largest lipoproteins, which primarily transport fats from the intestinal mucosa to the liver, are called chylomicrons. They carry mostly triglyceride fats and cholesterol (that are from food and especially internal cholesterol secreted by the liver into the bile). In the liver, chylomicron particles give up triglycerides and some cholesterol, and are converted into low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, which carry triglycerides and cholesterol on to other body cells. In healthy individuals the LDL particles are large and relatively few in number. In contrast, large numbers of small LDL particles are strongly associated with promoting atheromatous disease within the arteries. (Lack of information on LDL particle number and size is one of the major problems of conventional lipid tests.)
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles transport cholesterol back to the liver for excretion, but vary considerably in their effectiveness for doing this. Having large numbers of large HDL particles correlates with better health outcomes. In contrast, having small amounts of large HDL particles is strongly associated with atheromatous disease progression within the arteries. (Note that the concentration of total HDL does not indicate the actual number of functional large HDL particles, another of the major problems of conventional lipid tests.)
The cholesterol molecules present in LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol are identical. The difference between the two types of cholesterol derives from the carrier protein molecules; the lipoprotein component.
Synthesis and intake
Cholesterol is primarily synthesized from acetyl CoA through the HMG-CoA reductase pathway in many cells and tissues. About 20–25% of total daily production (~1 g/day) occurs in the liver; other sites of higher synthesis rates include the intestines, adrenal glands and reproductive organs. For a person of about 150 pounds (68 kg), typical total body content is about 35 g, typical daily internal production is about 1 g and typical daily dietary intake is 200 to 300 mg. Of the 1,200 to 1,300 mg input to the intestines (via bile production and food intake), about 50% is reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
Konrad Bloch and Feodor Lynen shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1964 for their discoveries concerning the mechanism and regulation of the cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism.
Regulation
Biosynthesis of cholesterol is directly regulated by the cholesterol levels present, though the homeostatic mechanisms involved are only partly understood. A higher intake from food leads to a net decrease in endogenous production, while lower intake from food has the opposite effect. The main regulatory mechanism is the sensing of intracellular cholesterol in the endoplasmic reticulum by the protein SREBP (Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 and 2). In the presence of cholesterol, SREBP is bound to two other proteins: SCAP (SREBP-cleavage activating protein) and Insig-1. When cholesterol levels fall, Insig-1 dissociates from the SREBP-SCAP complex, allowing the complex to migrate to the Golgi apparatus, where SREBP is cleaved by S1P and S2P (site 1/2 protease), two enzymes that are activated by SCAP when cholesterol levels are low. The cleaved SREBP then migrates to the nucleus and acts as a transcription factor to bind to the SRE (sterol regulatory element) of a number of genes to stimulate their transcription. Among the genes transcribed are the LDL receptor and HMG-CoA reductase. The former scavenges circulating LDL from the bloodstream, whereas HMG-CoA reductase leads to an increase of endogenous production of cholesterol. An excess of cholesterol can build up in the bloodstream and accumulates on the walls of arteries. This build up is what can lead to clogged ateries and eventually to heart attacks and strokes.
A large part of this mechanism was clarified by Dr Michael S. Brown and Dr Joseph L. Goldstein in the 1970s. They received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work in 1985.
The average amount of blood cholesterol varies with age, typically rising gradually until one is about 60 years old. There appear to be seasonal variations in cholesterol levels in humans, more, on average, in winter.
Excretion
Cholesterol is excreted from the liver in bile and reabsorbed from the intestines. Under certain circumstances, when more concentrated, as in the gallbladder, it crystallises and is the major constituent of most gallstones, although lecithin and bilirubin gallstones also occur less frequently.
Role in Atheromatous Disease
In conditions with elevated concentrations of oxidized LDL particles, especially small LDL particles, cholesterol promotes atheroma formation in the walls of arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which is the principal cause of coronary heart disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, HDL particles (especially large HDL) have been the only identified mechanism by which cholesterol can be removed from atheroma. Increased concentrations of HDL correlate with lower rates of atheroma progressions and even regression.
Of the lipoprotein fractions, LDL, IDL and VLDL are regarded as atherogenic (prone to cause atherosclerosis). Levels of these fractions, rather than the total cholesterol level, correllate with the extent and progress of atherosclerosis. Conversely, the total cholesterol can be within normal limits, yet be made up primarily of small LDL and small HDL particles, under which conditions atheroma growth rates would still be high. In contrast, however, if LDL particle number is low (mostly large particles) and a large percentage of the HDL particles are large, then atheroma growth rates are usually low, even negative, for any given total cholesterol concentration.
These effects are further complicated by the relative concentration of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in the endothelium, since ADMA down-regulates production of nitric oxide, a relaxant of the endothelium. Thus, high levels of ADMA, associated with high oxidized levels of LDL pose a heightened risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Multiple human trials utilizing HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or statins, have repeatedly confirmed that changing lipoprotein transport patterns from unhealthy to healthier patterns significantly lower cardiovascular disease event rates, even for people with cholesterol values currently considered low for adults; however, no statistically significant mortality benefit has been derived to date by lowering cholesterol using medications in asymptomatic people, i.e., no heart disease, no history of heart attack, etc.
Some of the better-designed recent randomized human outcome trials studying patients with coronary artery disease or its risk equivalents include the Heart Protection Study (HPS), the PROVE-IT trial, and the TNT trial. In addition, there are trials that have looked at the effect of lowering LDL as well as raising HDL and atheroma burden using intravascular ultrasound. Small trials have shown prevention of progression of coronary artery disease and possibly a slight reduction in atheroma burden with successful treatment of an abnormal lipid profile.
| Level mg/dL | Level mmol/L | Interpretation |
| <200 | <5.2 | Desirable level corresponding to lower risk for heart disease |
| 200-239 | 5.2-6.2 | Borderline high risk |
| >240 | >6.2 | High risk |
However, as today's testing methods determine LDL ("bad") and HDL ("good") cholesterol separately, this simplistic view has become somewhat outdated. The desirable LDL level is considered to be less than 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L), although a newer target of <70 mg/dL can be considered in higher risk individuals based on some of the above-mentioned trials. A ratio of total cholesterol to HDL —another useful measure— of far less than 5:1 is thought to be healthier. Of note, typical LDL values for children before fatty streaks begin to develop is 35 mg/dL.
Patients should be aware that most testing methods for LDL do not actually measure LDL in their blood, much less particle size. For cost reasons, LDL values have long been estimated using the Friedewald formula: [total cholesterol] − [total HDL] − 20% of the triglyceride value = estimated LDL.
Increasing Clinical Evidence needed has strongly supported the greater predictive value of more-sophisticated testing that directly measures both LDL and HDL particle concentrations and size, as opposed to the more usual estimates/measures of the total cholesterol carried within LDL particles or the total HDL concentration.
Hypocholesterolemia
Although relatively rare, an excessively low cholesterol level (hypocholesterolemia) (readings below 160 mg/dL) have been linked with an increase the risk of depression, cancer, hemorrhagic stroke, respiratory diseases.
Possible causes of low cholesterol are:
-hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland
-liver disease
-malabsorption
-inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestines
-malnutrition
-celiac disease
-abetalipoproteinemia- A rare genetic disease that causes cholesterol readings below 50mg/dl. It is found mostly in Jewish populations.
-hypobetalipoproteinemia-A genetic disease that causes cholesterol readings below 50mg/dl
-manganese deficiency
Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Some cholesterol derivatives, (among others simple cholesteric lipids) are known to generate liquid crystalline phase called cholesteric. The cholesteric phase is in fact a chiral nematic phase, and changes colour when its temperature changes. Therefore, cholesterol derivatives are commonly used as temperature-sensitive dyes, in liquid crystal thermometers, and in temperature-sensitive paints.
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors.
Friday, August 04, 2006
Friday's Test
I think you're gonna like this one.
Friday's Test
********Some Jokes**********
1. How Do You Catch a Unique Rabbit?
Unique Up On It.
2. How Do You Catch a Tame Rabbit?
Tame Way, Unique Up On It.
3. How Do Crazy People Go Through The Forest?
They Take The Psycho Path
4. How Do You Get Holy Water?
You Boil The Hell Out Of It.
5. What Do Fish Say When They Hit a Concrete Wall?
Dam!
6. What Do Eskimos Get From Sitting On The Ice too Long?
Polaroid's
7. What Do You Call a Boomerang That Doesn't work?
A Stick
8.. What Do You Call Cheese That Isn't Yours?
Nacho Cheese.
9.. What Do You Call Santa's Helpers?
Subordinate Clauses.
10. What Do You Call Four Bullfighters In Quicksand?
Quattro Sinko.
11. What Do You Get From a Pampered Cow?
Spoiled Milk.
12. What Do You Get When You Cross a Snowman With a Vampire?
Frostbite.
13. What Lies At The Bottom Of The Ocean And Twitches?
A Nervous Wreck.
14. What's The Difference Between Roast Beef And Pea Soup?
Anyone Can Roast Beef.
15. Where Do You Find a Dog With No Legs?
Right Where You Left Him.
16. Why Do Gorillas Have Big Nostrils?
Because They Have Big Fingers.
17. Why Don't Blind People Like To Sky Dive?
Because It Scares The Dog.
18. What Kind Of Coffee Was Served On The Titanic?
Sanka.
19. What Is The Difference Between a Harley And a Hoover?
The Location Of The Dirt Bag.
20. Why Did Pilgrims' Pants Always Fall Down?
Because They Wore Their Belt Buckle On Their Hat.
21. What's The Difference Between a Bad Golfer And a Bad Skydiver?
A Bad Golfer Goes, Whack, Dang!
A Bad Skydiver Goes Dang! Whack.
22. How Are a Texas Tornado And a Tennessee Divorce The Same?
Somebody's Gonna Lose A Trailer.
Friday's Test
********Some Jokes**********
1. How Do You Catch a Unique Rabbit?
Unique Up On It.
2. How Do You Catch a Tame Rabbit?
Tame Way, Unique Up On It.
3. How Do Crazy People Go Through The Forest?
They Take The Psycho Path
4. How Do You Get Holy Water?
You Boil The Hell Out Of It.
5. What Do Fish Say When They Hit a Concrete Wall?
Dam!
6. What Do Eskimos Get From Sitting On The Ice too Long?
Polaroid's
7. What Do You Call a Boomerang That Doesn't work?
A Stick
8.. What Do You Call Cheese That Isn't Yours?
Nacho Cheese.
9.. What Do You Call Santa's Helpers?
Subordinate Clauses.
10. What Do You Call Four Bullfighters In Quicksand?
Quattro Sinko.
11. What Do You Get From a Pampered Cow?
Spoiled Milk.
12. What Do You Get When You Cross a Snowman With a Vampire?
Frostbite.
13. What Lies At The Bottom Of The Ocean And Twitches?
A Nervous Wreck.
14. What's The Difference Between Roast Beef And Pea Soup?
Anyone Can Roast Beef.
15. Where Do You Find a Dog With No Legs?
Right Where You Left Him.
16. Why Do Gorillas Have Big Nostrils?
Because They Have Big Fingers.
17. Why Don't Blind People Like To Sky Dive?
Because It Scares The Dog.
18. What Kind Of Coffee Was Served On The Titanic?
Sanka.
19. What Is The Difference Between a Harley And a Hoover?
The Location Of The Dirt Bag.
20. Why Did Pilgrims' Pants Always Fall Down?
Because They Wore Their Belt Buckle On Their Hat.
21. What's The Difference Between a Bad Golfer And a Bad Skydiver?
A Bad Golfer Goes, Whack, Dang!
A Bad Skydiver Goes Dang! Whack.
22. How Are a Texas Tornado And a Tennessee Divorce The Same?
Somebody's Gonna Lose A Trailer.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Is it too Soon?
I'm not usually a person who watches "predictable" movies. Especially if I already know the outcome and basically how the events unfolded. For example, I've never watched the movie Titanic because I knew the ending:The Titanic sank. I didn't watch United 93 because how can anyone correctly portray the events if nobody survived? Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for historically based movies. I'm a huge fan particularily of war based movies. Let's be honest here...I'm all for movies as long as they entertain me, not be predictable and not be allot of hogwash. But...if it's historically based, it needs to be relatively accurate. I don't like allot of "Hollywood interpretations" because I feel it distracts from the movie. I know B.S. when I see it.
I get excited whenever anything history comes along and catches my attention. I should own stocks in the History Channel because that's my favorite station in my limited televison viewing. Today I was cruising through MSN.com and found a Newsweek article covering Oliver Stone's new movie: World Trade Center. It premeires August 9th and apparently I've been so wrapped-up in other issues I forgot about it. Must be my CRS kicking in again.
I'm a little hesitant to view this movie. Even 5 years later it still hits close to home. I remember that morning vividly as if it was just yesterday. My son, who was 5 years old, was surfng the channels like Daddy had taught him. He stops briefly and yells, "Dad, downtown is on fire!" For him it was a "downtown", it just wasn't Indianapolis. As I entered the room I immediately recognized the Twin Towers. I wisked my son off to kindergarten which was only two blocks away. When I returned home, I watched in horror as the events unfolded. My phone rang and the boss told me to stay home. Nice of him although I already had a day of vacation planned. lol I also fielded calls from my friends who are/were in the National Guard and from friends wanting to know if I'd heard about those friends. Although today I reflect back to my "vacation day" and have mixed emotions of whether it would've been better working or staying home watching the news.
I cannot express in words my emotions following September 11th nor the feelings presently. I, to this day, still get choked up whenever I hear Alan Jackson's song "Where Were You". I can relate how America must've felt on December 7, 1941 when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. I'm thinking the Islam Extremists should review their history lessons. I'm confident this quote still rings true today within an American's heart and soul. Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is credited with saying, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
If we have lost popularity within our own Nation with our War Against Terrorism, where is the media propaganda? Why not show allot of the news reels, unedited, of that horrendous day in our Nation's history? People become complacent when they aren't continually reminded of why this Nation is fighting the battles. People are failing to realize that Islamic Extremists are slowly becoming the Communists of the Cold War Era. And let us not forget the idealogy reminiscent of the Nazi Regime. Will this movie spark whatever resolves we have buried within ourselves so we unite, once again, as the sleeping giant?
Below are some movie reviews and articles concerning World Trade Center. I will be viewing the movie but not on August 9, 2006 when it opens at the box office. Yes I realize this one has a predictable outcome. But after reading these reviews and articles, it's not all about the Twin Towers.
Townhall Movie Review
Blog Critics Movie Review
IMDb
The above link has all the pertinant facts about the movie. A comment was left that hits home about how the movie portray events. While the comment isn't derogatory, it's a genuine expression.
Natural Born Heroes
Will you be viewing this movie?
I get excited whenever anything history comes along and catches my attention. I should own stocks in the History Channel because that's my favorite station in my limited televison viewing. Today I was cruising through MSN.com and found a Newsweek article covering Oliver Stone's new movie: World Trade Center. It premeires August 9th and apparently I've been so wrapped-up in other issues I forgot about it. Must be my CRS kicking in again.
I'm a little hesitant to view this movie. Even 5 years later it still hits close to home. I remember that morning vividly as if it was just yesterday. My son, who was 5 years old, was surfng the channels like Daddy had taught him. He stops briefly and yells, "Dad, downtown is on fire!" For him it was a "downtown", it just wasn't Indianapolis. As I entered the room I immediately recognized the Twin Towers. I wisked my son off to kindergarten which was only two blocks away. When I returned home, I watched in horror as the events unfolded. My phone rang and the boss told me to stay home. Nice of him although I already had a day of vacation planned. lol I also fielded calls from my friends who are/were in the National Guard and from friends wanting to know if I'd heard about those friends. Although today I reflect back to my "vacation day" and have mixed emotions of whether it would've been better working or staying home watching the news.
I cannot express in words my emotions following September 11th nor the feelings presently. I, to this day, still get choked up whenever I hear Alan Jackson's song "Where Were You". I can relate how America must've felt on December 7, 1941 when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. I'm thinking the Islam Extremists should review their history lessons. I'm confident this quote still rings true today within an American's heart and soul. Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is credited with saying, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
If we have lost popularity within our own Nation with our War Against Terrorism, where is the media propaganda? Why not show allot of the news reels, unedited, of that horrendous day in our Nation's history? People become complacent when they aren't continually reminded of why this Nation is fighting the battles. People are failing to realize that Islamic Extremists are slowly becoming the Communists of the Cold War Era. And let us not forget the idealogy reminiscent of the Nazi Regime. Will this movie spark whatever resolves we have buried within ourselves so we unite, once again, as the sleeping giant?
Below are some movie reviews and articles concerning World Trade Center. I will be viewing the movie but not on August 9, 2006 when it opens at the box office. Yes I realize this one has a predictable outcome. But after reading these reviews and articles, it's not all about the Twin Towers.
Townhall Movie Review
"Whatever one thinks of Oliver Stone, the man knows how to make movies. This is one of his best. It deserves an Oscar in so many categories. It also deserves the thanks of a grateful nation. Go and see it beginning Aug. 9 and make him a large profit so he might consider inspiring us again, as his predecessors so often did during Hollywood's Golden Age."
Blog Critics Movie Review
"It is refreshing to see Stone return to his Platoon form. This film involves no crazy camera techniques or a flair for his JFK conspiracy side, but the film is above and beyond anything he has done since JFK. While World Trade Center will most likely be labeled a controversial film for its subject matter, it gives no reason to be tagged as such. In the screening that I attended, the last hour all I could hear was sniffling and stifled crying. This film hits the heart, and hits it hard. No one will be able to deny that this is one of the best films of the year."
IMDb
The above link has all the pertinant facts about the movie. A comment was left that hits home about how the movie portray events. While the comment isn't derogatory, it's a genuine expression.
Natural Born Heroes
"In Oliver Stone's "World Trade Center," on the morning of September 11, 2001, a Port Authority cop named Will Jimeno is doing his everyday job, shooing away prostitutes and panhandlers from the bus terminal, when he hears a loud rumble overhead. The camera pans, not up at the sky, but down the street, to reveal the shadow of a low-flying plane climbing the face of a building. Stone never shows the planes crashing into the Twin Towers. He's letting us know, right from the start, that we will see history unfold as it happened on the ground, from the perspectives of ordinary men and women."
Will you be viewing this movie?
A Slow Thursday
| You Are a Pegasus |
 You are a perfectionist, with an eye for beauty. You know how to live a good life - and you rarely deviate from your good taste. While you aren't outgoing, you have excellent social skills. People both admire you - and feel very comfortable around you. |
Found this at Accidental Verbosity
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Today's Medical Terminology 101-Triglycerides
Triglycerides
Chemical Structure
CH2COOR-CHCOOR'-CH2-COOR" where R, R', and R" are long alkyl chains; the three fatty acids RCOOH, R'COOH and R"COOH can be all different, all the same, or only two the same.
Chain lengths of the fatty acids in naturally occurring triglycerides can be from 3 to 22 carbon atoms, but 16 and 18 are most common. Shorter chain lengths may be found in some substances (butyric acid in butter). Typically, plants and animals have natural fatty acids that comprise only of even numbers of carbon atoms due to the way they are bio-synthesised from acetyl CoA, however bacteria possess the ability to synthesise odd- and branched-chain fatty acids. Consequently, ruminant animal fat contains significant proportions of branched-chain fatty acids, due to the action of bacteria in the rumen.
Most natural fats contain a complex mixture of individual triglycerides; because of this, they melt over a broad range of temperatures. Cocoa butter is unusual in that it is comprises only of a few triglycerides, one of which contains palmitic, oleic and stearic acids in that order. This gives rise to a fairly sharp melting point, causing chocolate to melt in the mouth without feeling greasy.
Metabolism
Triglycerides play an important role in metabolism as energy sources. They contain more than twice as much energy (9 kcal/g) as carbohydrates and proteins. In the intestine, triglycerides are split into glycerol and fatty acids (this process is called lipolysis) (with the help of lipases and bile secretions), which can then move into blood vessels. The triglycerides are rebuilt in the blood from their fragments and become constituents of lipoproteins, which deliver the fatty acids to and from fat cells among other functions. Various tissues can release the free fatty acids and take them up as a source of energy. Fat cells can synthesize and store triglycerides. When the body requires fatty acids as an energy source, the hormone glucagon signals the breakdown of the triglycerides by hormone-sensitive lipase to release free fatty acids. As the brain can not utilize fatty acids as an energy source, the glycerol component of triglycerides can be converted into glycogen for brain fuel when it is broken down. Fat cells may also be broken down for that reason, if the brain's needs ever outweigh the body's.
Role in Disease
In the human body, high levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream have been linked to atherosclerosis, and, by extension, the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, the negative impact of raised levels of triglycerides is lower than that of LDL:HDL ratios. The risk can be partly accounted for a strong inverse relationship between triglyceride level and HDL-cholesterol level.
Other diseases caused by high triglycerides include pancreatitis and depression.
Reducing Triglyceride Levels
Cardiovascular exercise and low-moderate carbohydrate diets containing essential fatty acid are recommended for reducing triglyceride levels. When these fail, fish oils, fibrate drugs, niacin, and some statins are registered for reducing triglyceride levels. Prior alcohol intake can cause elevated levels of triglycerides, and reducing alcohol intake is routinely recommended in patients with high triglyceride levels.
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors.
Chemical Structure
CH2COOR-CHCOOR'-CH2-COOR" where R, R', and R" are long alkyl chains; the three fatty acids RCOOH, R'COOH and R"COOH can be all different, all the same, or only two the same.
Chain lengths of the fatty acids in naturally occurring triglycerides can be from 3 to 22 carbon atoms, but 16 and 18 are most common. Shorter chain lengths may be found in some substances (butyric acid in butter). Typically, plants and animals have natural fatty acids that comprise only of even numbers of carbon atoms due to the way they are bio-synthesised from acetyl CoA, however bacteria possess the ability to synthesise odd- and branched-chain fatty acids. Consequently, ruminant animal fat contains significant proportions of branched-chain fatty acids, due to the action of bacteria in the rumen.
Most natural fats contain a complex mixture of individual triglycerides; because of this, they melt over a broad range of temperatures. Cocoa butter is unusual in that it is comprises only of a few triglycerides, one of which contains palmitic, oleic and stearic acids in that order. This gives rise to a fairly sharp melting point, causing chocolate to melt in the mouth without feeling greasy.
Metabolism
Triglycerides play an important role in metabolism as energy sources. They contain more than twice as much energy (9 kcal/g) as carbohydrates and proteins. In the intestine, triglycerides are split into glycerol and fatty acids (this process is called lipolysis) (with the help of lipases and bile secretions), which can then move into blood vessels. The triglycerides are rebuilt in the blood from their fragments and become constituents of lipoproteins, which deliver the fatty acids to and from fat cells among other functions. Various tissues can release the free fatty acids and take them up as a source of energy. Fat cells can synthesize and store triglycerides. When the body requires fatty acids as an energy source, the hormone glucagon signals the breakdown of the triglycerides by hormone-sensitive lipase to release free fatty acids. As the brain can not utilize fatty acids as an energy source, the glycerol component of triglycerides can be converted into glycogen for brain fuel when it is broken down. Fat cells may also be broken down for that reason, if the brain's needs ever outweigh the body's.
Role in Disease
In the human body, high levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream have been linked to atherosclerosis, and, by extension, the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, the negative impact of raised levels of triglycerides is lower than that of LDL:HDL ratios. The risk can be partly accounted for a strong inverse relationship between triglyceride level and HDL-cholesterol level.
Other diseases caused by high triglycerides include pancreatitis and depression.
| Level mg/dL | Level mmol/L | Interpretation |
| <150 | <1.69 | Normal range, lowest risk |
| 150-199 | 1.70-2.25 | Borderline high |
| 200-498 | 2.25-5.63 | High |
| >500 | >5.65 | Very high, increased risk |
Reducing Triglyceride Levels
Cardiovascular exercise and low-moderate carbohydrate diets containing essential fatty acid are recommended for reducing triglyceride levels. When these fail, fish oils, fibrate drugs, niacin, and some statins are registered for reducing triglyceride levels. Prior alcohol intake can cause elevated levels of triglycerides, and reducing alcohol intake is routinely recommended in patients with high triglyceride levels.
This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors.
Weekly Tongue Twister 8-2-06
I thought a thought.
But the thought I thought wasn't the thought I thought I thought.
If the thought I thought I thought had been the thought I thought, I wouldn't have thought so much.
But the thought I thought wasn't the thought I thought I thought.
If the thought I thought I thought had been the thought I thought, I wouldn't have thought so much.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
An Apple a Day...
I'm thinking after today's doctors appointment I should eat two apples a day. Today was my yearly physical and it didn't quite turn out like I had planned. I hadn't been feeling energetic the past couple of months so it was a good thing I had my physical earlier than normal.
Results: High blood pressure (140/100), high cholesterol (282), high triglycerides (348) and I need to lose 20 lbs maximum. So I'm a walking, talking medicine cabinet. I'm on BP meds, cholesterol meds and having to eat healthy again. Oh, and no more sudafed for my sinus/allergies issues. ugh I'm on Flonase now to help alleviate that portion of my physical well-being.
So now I have to restrict my usual food intake...no more bacon cheeseburgers with a Frosty, no more chalupa's with a taco, no more General Tso's chicken/spring rolls/crab rangoon, minimal red meat and more chicken, no more pizza for awhile, italian sausages are out...basically I'm having to change my entire eating habits. lol
Basically for the next few months I'm gonna be grumpier than normal. But on the positive side, I'd rather be grumpy then the alternative. At the age of 41, I'm too young to be pushing up daisies.
Results: High blood pressure (140/100), high cholesterol (282), high triglycerides (348) and I need to lose 20 lbs maximum. So I'm a walking, talking medicine cabinet. I'm on BP meds, cholesterol meds and having to eat healthy again. Oh, and no more sudafed for my sinus/allergies issues. ugh I'm on Flonase now to help alleviate that portion of my physical well-being.
So now I have to restrict my usual food intake...no more bacon cheeseburgers with a Frosty, no more chalupa's with a taco, no more General Tso's chicken/spring rolls/crab rangoon, minimal red meat and more chicken, no more pizza for awhile, italian sausages are out...basically I'm having to change my entire eating habits. lol
Basically for the next few months I'm gonna be grumpier than normal. But on the positive side, I'd rather be grumpy then the alternative. At the age of 41, I'm too young to be pushing up daisies.
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