Discerning the Motive

This is great. Funny, yet oh, so true.

The ACT and Other News

I know it's been terribly long since I posted something that wasn't a video or political commentary, but I really have been doing a lot lately.

First, I completed geometry! Yay!

The amazing part is that I started it on February 4th, and then finished it on March 4th! I honestly don't understand how I did that, except that all of a sudden, just after finishing the Chaparral Cleanse that I think I mentioned, my brain "turned on" as I call it. I was able to do math better than I have literally in years.

That means, (drum roll) that I have actually finished all my high school coursework!!! I.E. I have graduated high school but haven't "walked" yet!!

That left me with exactly one month to study for that dreaded, avoided and generally feared ACT. I have now been studying for that month, and will be taking it tomorrow. I was doing quite well on the practice tests until yesterday, when I suddenly got a 19 (on a scale of 1-36 with 36 high) on the READING section of all things! I've been getting scores in reading between 30 and 34 or so, and then all of a sudden I got 19? It doesn't make sense. But, I think it may have something to do with the form of the test, that was the first one I did online. With the online tests, it scores for you and everything, but it also gives you much smaller type and you have to scroll through the text that you're reading, which I think makes it much harder to reference while asking the questions, so I was going far more by memory. (SAT people, on the ACT you can reference the passages as often as you like while answering the questions, and that includes the writing prompt).

Anyhow, I've been turning my clock around in preparation for this, and have been getting up consistently at 6:20am - an amazing feat for me! But, this morning and yesterday, I've been waking up at around 5:30, and having trouble getting back to sleep. That's hard, because I'm losing a bunch of sleep that I really need.

I could really use prayer about the ACT, that I'm not nervous, and that my brain doesn't just decide to quit on me and go to sleep, and also that I'm able to rest well today and tonight.

On another front, we have finally decided on a Church - send up a flare! It certainly took us long enough - 7 months since we moved here. It's a small congregation about 10-15 minutes from us, which is very nice, and we really like it. At the end of it all, we were deciding between that church, which we'd been visiting off and on for a few months now, and another that was down on the west side of the city. It was a hard choice! But, even though we picked the one closer up here, I'm actually getting involved in a group from the one further down in the city.

Actually, I'm scaring myself, because the group I've started attending is, get this, the college and career group! AHHHHH!!!!! It's just that I felt like it would be silly to join a youth group for 2 months until I had gone through a graduation ceremony just to leave and join the college group. And, since I've never been in a youth group, I didn't really think this was the time to start. So, I am now attending this group, and I have enjoyed the two weeks I've been to - there would have been more, but I had to skip a week, long story.

Oh, and really funny, Dad, my father, who is technologically advanced, but perhaps not so much on the Internet until recently, got a Face book! So, if you've got one, send him an friend invitation for me.

Post-Christmas Post

Merry Christmas!

We had a very nice Christmas, just the five of us. Our Christmas Eve play and evening program went very well, Mom and Dad LOVED it! I got another book from Lamplighter Publishers. I would have read it by now, but I have 3 1/2 books sitting on my night stand that I'm reading (one of them I'm reading for the third or fourth time, hence the "1/2"). I decided I have to finish at least one of them before I start another!

It has been officially announced that I have very good taste in clothes. You see, Birdie, Buddy and I went to a mall near here to do some Christmas Shopping, and Dad tells me, "If you see a nice sweater for your mom, get it, I'm not going to have time to go out myself for that". I came home with excellent deals on two sweaters, and Although one of them just plain didn't fit Mom right, she really liked the other one! Then, a first time experience for me, Mom and I went shopping early on the day after Christmas. It was actually kind of fun, especially since I was clothes shopping for someone else who was placing her clothes choice in my hands.

I would like to note that this DOES NOT, I repeat, DOES NOT imply that I now enjoy shopping, or that I like figuring out styles and trends, or that I am now a fashion consultant/personal shopper etc. It only means that Mom and I can go shop and actually enjoy it.

Happy New Year!

For New Year's, Aunt J and Uncle A came to visit us, arriving the evening of the day after Christmas. We did a little touring around, they did some things on their own, we had some other family from somewhat north of us come to visit, played games, watched movies (Bourne Ultimatum was excellent, even for the fourth time through) and generally visited.

This, coming on the heals of the Christmas Week preparations, really did me in. I wasn't really feeling so good before Christmas because of all the things we were doing. I made it through Christmas Eve and Day alright, just pushing through on adrenaline, but that can only last so long.

I really just need to take a month off from life, but that isn't going to happen. But, I did have a really nice time over the past weeks, even though daily naps became a necessity and all that tiredness is rather depressing.

Now, I'm dealing with the "finish" syndrome, talking about bio's and pictures for graduation (oh, the scary word), and doing my best to actually be done when graduation pronounces me so!

Well, that's the update for now, hope everyone had a nice Christmas and New Year, and God Bless America (by saving her from herself).

FF: Thanksgiving!... Christmas!... Lightsmas... Tossmas?

Thanksgiving is coming, and we are all looking forward to it.

After that, the exact day after, actually, starts a family tradition that is very longstanding. This year it got a new name, though, "lightsmas". It is the day we all celebrate decorating for Christmas, and of course, putting up the absolutely necessary lights (Buddy's pride, joy and passion).

Then comes Christmas, we're looking forward to that too.

But there is one holiday that we are enjoying already, have been since late October, and will be until late December...

Tossmas.

This holiday was made up by Stuart Shepard on his video feature, Stoplight, in early November, 2007. It was presented in this Stoplight:

&abouttext=Focus Action's CitizenLink&aboutlink=http://www.citizenlink.com allowfullscreen=true allowscriptaccess=always>

I was hoping that they would do something concerning Tossmas this year, or at least move last year's up to the top of the list. I am very happy to say that they made another one this year:



Now, this is all well and good, and the video's are quite funny, and it makes a good point, but why is this a Federal Friday post? Because, it is time we spoke out and quit letting ourselves be marginalized when we are indeed the majority - something that the republican party needed to learn a few years ago, by the way. It is our holiday... Christmas. It is Christmas that makes all the stores their money, and we need to remind them of that.

Pure and simple, political correctivism has gone too far, and we ought to put some pressure on people to stop it. The AFA has also started a Christmas campaign, and we have ordered some of their stuff, it's great.

In other words, get out, say "Merry Christmas" to every store clerk you talk to, even if they say "happy holidays" or whatever, become a passionate participant in Tossmas, and recognize the importance of this issue.

(Happy Thanksgiving, and Merry Christmas early)

Federal Friday: One Vote to stop Democratic Halloweens

So, with all the serious political postings of late, I decided to provide some comedy relief. Now, personally, we don't celebrate halloween, but this cartoon is very funny - and representative of the liberal viewpoint - so it belongs in today's Federal Friday.

The poor kids... just trying to make their way in the world of candy gathering, and they get stripped of the fruits of their labors!

NO!! That is not what is happening! The Democrat is trying to take away the fruits of their labors. But, if we reach the analogy to our current situation, we see that the kids (voters, taxpayers) are able to decide whether or not the Democrat (Obama and other candidates) gets to do what he plans.

(Now, of course, I can't make it all fun and games, so here's the serious section)

With that in mind, remember, no matter what the media, politicians or others tell you, your vote will count! This video is a little longer than usual, and isn't a Stoplight, but is very good and well worth the time.

One last thing: the polls that aren't being manipulated are still showing either a 2 point race, or tighter! Make up that slight difference by showing up in greater numbers than anyone imagined possible!

Another Fun[ny] Christmas Song - (Jingle Bells)

For those who are familiar with the particulars of the campaign for Mr. A, this I consider the best theme song for the 'ratle-trap' (heather's gray volvo)that could be found!!

For the rest of you, it's funny anyhow.... to the tune of Jingle Bells....


Title: Rusty Chevrolet

Artist: Da Yoopers

1. DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW
IN MY RUSTY CHEVROLET
DOWN THE ROAD I GO
SLIDING ALL THE WAY
I NEED NEW PISTON RINGS
I NEED SOME NEW SNOW TIRES
MY CAR IS HELD TOGETHER
BY A PIECE OF CHICKEN WIRE

CHORUS:
RUST AND SMOKE THE HEATER'S BROKE
THE DOOR JUST BLEW AWAY
I LIGHT A MATCH TO SEE THE DASH
AND THEN I START TO PRAY
THE FRAME IS BENT THE MUFFLER WENT
THE RADIO IT'S OK
OH WHAT FUN IT IS TO DRIVE
THIS RUSTY CHEVROLET

2. I WENT TO THE IGA
TO GET SOME CHRISTMAS CHEER
I JUST PASSED UP MY LEFT FRONT TIRE
AND ITS GETTING HARD TO STEER
SKIDDING DOWN THE HIGHWAY
RIGHT PAST THE NEGAUNEE COPS
I HAD TO DRAG MY SWAMPERS
TO GET THE CAR TO STOP

(REPEAT CHORUS)

3. BOUNCING THROUGH THE SNOWDRIFTS
IN A BIG BLUE CLOUD OF SMOKE
PEOPLE LAUGH AS I DRIVE BY
I WONDER WHAT'S THE JOKE
I GOT TO GET TO SHOPKO
TO PICK UP THE LAYAWAY
CAUSE SANTA CLAUS IS COMING SOON
IN HIS BIG OLD RUSTY SLEIGH

(REPEAT CHORUS)

Another Fun[ny] Christmas Song (12 Days of Christmas)

Mom and I were practically rolling around the floor when we heard this one, but I must say that it loses some of it's humor without the indian accent and re-mixed music... but hope you enjoy it! (I've not heard the rest of the cd, and there's evidently a YouTube video with this song if you're interested)

12 Days of Christmas for the Brown Folk

by Boymongoose



On the first day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
A totally insufficient dowry

On the second day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry
n
On the third day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the fourth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Four Hari Krishnas..... (Is that Indian)
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the fifth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Five Indian games..... (I want to be the cowboy)
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the sixth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the seventh day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the eighth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Eight Bollywood films
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the ninth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Nine telemarketers..... (Good Evenin.. This is Kaalin jones. Are you waanting greater kaalrits)
Eight Bollywood films
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the tenth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Ten-minute yoga..... (Think the lotus, feel the lotus, drive the lotus)
Nine telemarketers
Eight Bollywood films
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the eleventh day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Eleven syllable name..... (PEESARAVANMUTHUDBLEEKVAAS)
Ten-minute yoga
Nine telemarketers
Eight Bollywood films
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five Indian games
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

On the twelfth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me...
Twelve cricket ball tamperers..... (I was simply correcting the stitching)
Eleven syllable name
Ten-minute yoga
Nine telemarketers
Eight Bollywood films
Seven-11 workers
Six IT graduates
Five minutes of fame
Four Hari Krishnas
Three butter chickens
Two nosy in-laws
And a totally insufficient dowry

Christmas Music - Very Fun[ny]

I love Christmas in general. I like the decorating (especially my town setup), I really enjoy the family time, and I'll freely say that I like the gift giving and recieving. And, as is to be expected, I really love Christmas music! The traditional carols, (my fav being "I heard the bells on Christmas Day" and "God rest ye merry gentlemen"), the old-time favorites (like "White Christmas", "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow", and my fav, "Sleigh Ride") etc are all part of Christmas for me.

Here's something I started to discover over the past one or two years... there are HILARIOUS original, spoof and just generally goofy songs for Christmas!!

Here's a semi-classic: the version I've heard was voiced by a Gala something-or-other, the kid really has a nice voice, but it's sorta nasalish, which realy fits the song well. Enjoy!

Words and Music by John Rox
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
Don't want a doll, no dinky Tinker Toy
I want a hippopotamus to play with and enjoy

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
I don't think Santa Claus will mind, do you?
He won't have to use our dirty chimney flue
Just bring him through the front door,
that's the easy thing to do

I can see me now on Christmas morning,
creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
when I open up my eyes
to see a hippo hero standing there

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, no rhinoceroses
I only like hippopotamuses
And hippopotamuses like me too

Mom says the hippo would eat me up, but then
Teacher says a hippo is a vegeterian.
(Short Music Interlude)
There's lots of room for him in our two-car garage
I'd feed him there and wash him there and give him his massage

I can see me now on Christmas morning,
creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
when I open up my eyes
to see a hippo hero standing there

I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuseses
And hippopotamuses like me too!

true romance (according to buddy)

This was great.

First, though, you need to know the movie he was referencing. Blues Brothers (a truly funny comedy) came out in the 80's. It was originally R rated (for language I think), would probably fit PG-13 rating today, but we have the "edited for TV" version, and we really like it.

Blues Brothers is basically a really long chase, actually, make that four chases. all for the same two guys (the Blues Brothers - Jake and Elwood). One is by the cops, one is led by a group of country Singers that are mad at them, another by the Illinois Nazis (also mad at them) and the fourth is this ex-fiancé of one of the bro's.

She is the topic of the day. She is really mad at Jake and tries a number of different ways of getting rid of him for good (Which they always miraculously live through, it's hilarious), including blowing up their apartment building, using a flame thrower, and shooting them down with a machine gun (She misses them, just to make it more funny).

And here we come to the funny part. Birdie was requesting that we watch a movie that had "romance" in it. She was thinking My Fair Lady, or something. Buddy says, "How about blues brothers?" Birdie says, "That doesn't have romance in it" (Which, btw it doesn't). Greg responds, "Yes it does! It's that girl trying to shoot down the guy 'cause she's mad at him, that's, like, ultimate romantic for a girl!"

So, we see the romantic logic of Buddy.
:-)

something funny about math - is it possible?

If you know me very much at all you probably know that I really don't like math of all sorts. (actaully, what little chemistry I've been introduced to is quite interesting, but that's beside the point) Well, this semester i'm techinically taking two math "classes". one at home and Consumer Mathmatics with Mrs. D (and three other girls, all of us friends with, um, Mrs. President [not madame president, Mrs. president, ie Funkysocks]).

Well, I thought that there was nothing funny whatsoever about math, until I found the pic's below. The story is I was looking for a new pic for my gtalk status thing. i wanted something interesting, so I typed in "funny" searching images. Well, about two pages in I found these, and being a math enthusiast (ina twisted way) I popped them up big and started laughing like you wouldn't believe!

Sooo... hope they make you laugh as much as they did me!




It's sort of hard to read the second one, so I'll transcribe:

Question: Explain the shape of the graph.

Answer:
"Its curvy, with a higher bit at the end and a rather aesthetically pleasing slope downwards towards a pretty flat strait bit. The actaul graph itself consists of 2 strait lines meeting at the lower left hand corner of the graph and moving away at a 90 degree angle. Each line has an arrow head on the end."

Some great lyrics

So, here's some lyrics that I heard the other day, and loved. Found them hilarious myself. I have been wanting to put these up ever since, so enjoy:


Well a hard headed woman,
a soft hearted man
been the cause of trouble
ever since the world began.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.

Now Adam told to Eve,
"Listen here to me,
don't you let me catch you
messin' round that apple tree."
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.

Now Samson told Delilah
loud and clear,
"Keep your cotton pickin' fingers
out my curly hair."
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.

I heard about a king
who was doin' swell
till he started playing
with that evil Jezebel.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been a thorn in the side of man.

I got a woman,
a head like a rock.
If she ever went away
I'd cry around the clock.
Oh yeah, ever since the world began
a hard headed woman been
a thorn in the side of man.