Weather...or Not October 2009 Entries - Wandtv.com, NewsCenter17, StormCenter17, Central Illinois News-
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10/29/9
You might be able to tell from my blog that I tend to get introspective quite a bit. Looking into myself and trying to find a better way has always been my nature. And I like to look at how other people process their lives, as well. I've been thinking about something for a while that I have wanted to blog about...but even now I am still unsure how to articulate what I am thinking.
It has to do with different types of people. I think it can be broken down into just a couple of groups. People that do, versus people that don't. Maybe it boils down to the glass being half full or half empty. I don't know. It could be that simple. Don't you notice, though, that there are some people that are always trying to move forward...and other people that are content to stay where they are, or even regress? Now...don't get me wrong...I am not saying that one is better than the other. There is no judgment here. I am just pointing out a difference in people.
I guess I have noticed it a bit more lately with this new business venture I've been doing, because it has me talking to people about what they want o, ut of their lives...and how they try or don't try to mold their own future. , ; But I noticed it way before then...and I think most people probably know what I am talking about with this.
Some people you can see it as soon as you look in their eyes. Sometimes people have a sparkle to them...and you just know that they will get what they want out of life. They have a snap to their look and to the words coming out of their mouths. And for the record...this is the quality I am talking about when I mention Barrack Obama coming to our studio four or five years ago. He has that sparkle about him, and that snap to his movements. And obviously he has done amazing things with his life.
On the flip side...you can also tell sometimes right off the bat people that just won't move much in their lives. I am not talking about literally and physically living in different houses...I am talking about moving their lives much. And again...that is fine. Happiness can be found wherever a person looks. But there is a dullness to some people that just tells you that this particular person will be content to just be.
Honestly I envy both types of people. The go-getters certainly seem to have a lot of success at whatever they attempt. Yet sometimes I think it would be awesome to not be the kind of person that has to think so much, like the second type of person I described. The ability to just be...would be tremendous.
Maybe I have jumped the shark on this one...but I'd love to read some thoughts from you on this. If you are feelin me on this one, you are more than welcome to send me some feedback using the link above. I will suggest, though, that if your feedback is going to be a long one that you just email me and mention that it is for the blog. The feedback form doesn't allow over 500 or so characters.
Even if you aren't feelin me on this one...and want to tell me that I am a friggin loon...I welcome that kind of feedback, as well. Remember...tomorrow is "Feedback Friday"!
10/28/9
--Okay...I am not backtracking, but let me clear something up from yesterday's blog. I was not railing on local media. The media of which I was speaking is the national media...MSNBC, CNN, Fox, and the other 24 hour news groups. Part of the problem is that they have to find things to fill their 24 hours of news. And the other part of the problem, as I see it, is that people actually watch what they air. My point is...if people stop watching what many consider to be crappy news then the cable news networks will respond by changing the way they cover news...and the news they cover.
--Did I mention that after all the complaining I made about my fantasy football team...you know, dropping Carson Palmer and sitting Tony Romo...I ended up winning my matchup anyway? Yeah...I ended up winning after DeSean Jackson had a great game M, onday night and put me over the top. By the way...for those that read this and know him...Dr. Capitosti at Lake Land College is the person I beat this past weekend. If you know Cappy...you know how angry he probably will be for the rest of the week! Heh.
--Apparently I will not be happy until this blog becomes another "sales post". I got more feedback this week that I will go ahead and post today.
From Kristen in Maroa (10/26/9):
Hi there Greg! I find it quite interesting that there are so many plugs going on here on the blog. So many "Gregorians" are peddling their wares. (*by the way, found out that "Gregorian" is actually a group having to do with some Popes named Greg*). Yes, now there is competition with Mary Kay and Avon even!!! So, with that said....ummmm... www.tealady.acnrep.com is a GREAT place to find a way to save money on services most of us already use! Not to mention, there is a link there to check out an amazing opportunity a great friend of mine shared with me ;)
Your Friend,
Kristen
Hello, Kristen! Pope Gregory the Great, also known as Gregory I, is on a plaque on my wall, along with St. Matthew. Together those plaques bookend a crucifix on my wall over my bed. These items have been on my wall over my bed wherever I have lived since I was a little kid. My first name is Gregory, and my middle name is Matthew...so it is not tough to figure out why those saints are on my wall. I am not a religious person, and I will save my rant on organized religion for maybe another time. But I am a big fan of mementos from my childhood, and those particular mementos mean a lot to me.
It is after this particular Pope that the word "Gregorian" was coined. Most famous for using the term "Gregorian" are the Gregorian Monks. In case you miss them...I am leaving links to the various terms here. Just click on the term and you will be carted away to the linked website so you can read more about these topics!
And of course now the term "Gregorian" is used to identify readers of this blog. I just wanted to give some background on Kristen's use of the word in regards to you!
Yes, Kristen, the opportunity of which you write is a good one. And welcome aboard. The deal is based on providing an opportunity for people to save money on services most of us already use. And as you described...there is the further opportunity for people to MAKE money by being one of us that can offer these opportunities to the masses. Many of my friends and family are in the process of saving themselves money. And some others are looking into the opportunity to make money through this venture. And of course...Kristen joined our ranks a couple of weeks ago! It is never too late to grab control over your life...and this opportunity is a tremendous tool to get that done.
10/27/9
There comes a time when we heed a certain call. When the world...must come together as one. There are people...dying. And it's time to lend a hand. To life...the greatest gift of all.
I have no idea why the lyrics to "We Are the World" are running through my head this morning. But I remember when that song came out. I was in 6th grade at Bennett School in Mattoon. Bennett has since been torn down. My teacher at the time, Mr. Self...one of my top 3 favorite teachers of all time, by the way...had us go out into the park next to the school and make a little video to that song. For some reason that day always sticks out in my head. I think it was because it was a nice day and we got to spend most of it outside.
Remember camcorders back then? They were beastly things that made a lot of noise. Now-a-days you can shoot the same video on your phone...and the quality is better. Yikes. Maybe I am just feeling older this morning.
The point of that song back in the day was to draw attention to Ethiopia, as I recall. That African nation was trying to survive a horrible drought and the famine that came with it. To my knowledge not much has changed in Ethiopia, other than the fact that they are not on our TV's much anymore. Isn't it weird how priorities change? 20 years ago we were concerned about kids starving in other countries. These days we get 24 hour news coverage of a kid that "appears" to be floating away in a balloon...only to learn later that his parents just wanted their family to be on TV. How screwed up is that?
The bigger question, to me anyway, is how did our media come to this? Do we get this kind of coverage because our media thinks this is what we want? Or is the media only responding to what we actually watch? It is a tough question, and it is not one I think I can really answer. I'm kind of an insider...and I have my ideas. But I don't know if I can prove myself right or wrong on this one.
So here is what I think. The media these days is not concerned with what they used to be concerned with back in Cronkite's day. Getting to the heart of the story, or even telling the story, is not priority number one. The top priority is profit. And how does a news organization make a profit? Well...by increasing ratings. And how do you increase ratings? You provide content that people want to see, and then build a little promotion behind that content. Then people watch...and in theory the ratings increase. Once the ratings increase the sales people can make more money on the ads run on the station.
So I guess my answer would be that the American viewer is getting exactly what it actually wants from the American media. In my line of work I hear complaints about today's media all the time. "Why do they cover that crap?" "Why don't they spend some time covering real news?" The answer is simple...because people like to watch this crap. When there is a story like the "Balloon Boy" and the networks blow up the coverage their ratings go up. That means that many people are glued to their TV sets watching this "crap". And when the ratings go up from this event...guess what the newsies do the next time something ridiculous happens? Yep...they cover the next stupid event even more.
Bottom line: if you are not happy with the news coverage these days...stop watching. If enough people stop watching...the ratings will suffer. And I guarantee you that if the ratings start to suffer the networks will respond and try something else. They may even start to cover good news more if they think people will actually watch it.
10/26/9
Through a typical or average October we usually end up with a little over 3 inches of rain, and once in a while we get a little snow mixed in. For this particular October we have already had about 9.25" of rain. Already for the month...we are 3 times over what we typically have at the end of the month. That is tremendously wet! And it looks like we will get more rain for the last week of the month. Could we actually get over 10 inches of rain this month? Crazy.
My fantasy football season continues to be a weird one. Not to lose you in minutia...but I decided to drop Carson Palmer to pick up Eli Manning for the weekend. Palmer has been unspectacular so far this season. Enter the Chicago Bears. Palmer destroyed the Bears with 5 TD passes. Manning threw 3 picks last night. That is the way my season has gone. Every decision is the wrong decision. By the way...I left Tony Romo on my bench this weekend because he, too, has been unspectacular. And of course Romo went off yesterday, too.
Even after all of those bad decisions I still have a chance to win tonight if DeSean Jackson can score 9 points. Nice.
I got some feedback over the weekend that I will post this morning. It is guaranteed to get me in trouble with my Mom. But I said I would post this type of feedback while I can...and I have to follow through with that!
From Melanie in Mowequa (10/23/9):
Hi, Greg! I guess it is time for a little friendly competition with your mother, via this blog! As wonderful as Mary Kay is, and all of the great stuff they do, we, at Avon, also do great things with breast cancer and domestic violence, as well as help out in national and international emergencies, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, and of course 9/11, as well as others. So here is my website for those that are interested in learning more, if you shall choose to post it. (If not, that is fine too, at least its all in fun, AND I can say I finally got a chance to send feedback to this amazingly funny and wonderful blog!) So here it is: www.avonrepresentative.com/mdowdall
On medical marijuana, I completely agree to legalize it, and why not legalize it for everyone and tax it like crazy?! We never hear of all the toxins and negative things in it as there is in cigarettes and alcohol, and obviously being illegal does not stop the usage, so put certain rules on it and TAX it...
Healthcare- we won't even start on...
and
Being an Uncle, CONGRATS! to you and your whole family on the newest edition!
Thanks for making my mornings a little more enjoyable with so much un-enjoyable things going on in the world and here locally as well...
Thanks for deciding to sound off on so many topics, Melanie! I did a little research. Yeah...Avon helps out, too!
Thanks for the well wishes to me and my family, as well. Alexa is doing very well, and so is my once again little Little Sister!
And Melanie...you are welcome! It is my pleasure.
10/23/9
I woke up this morning to get ready for work and let the dogs out. When I turned on the back light I saw that it was clearly raining. I also saw that my deck was covered with leaves. As I was pulling out of the garage this morning to get to work I noticed that there were leaves all over my driveway. As I started to pull down the street I noticed that there were leaves all over the street. As I pulled into the driveway at work I noticed that there were leaves all over the parking lot at work. Apparently we have hit the point of Fall where the leaves are no longer in the trees. Is that happy...or sad?
It's "Feedback Friday"! It is a short one this morning. Apparently next week I have to get back to being more inflammatory. Feedback was down this week...and I have to get the numbers back up!&nb, sp; Heh.
From Christine in Decatur (10/20/9):
hahahaha
1) your mom is too freaking cute.
2) i think you just wanted to type "boobies" again and get away with it.
3) you crack me up!! :)
Hi, Christine!
By the way...the topic is important enough to mention the website again.
http://www.feelyourboobies.com/
From Angie in Charleston (10/20/9):
Mary Kay also does great work for Domestic Violence and Breast Cancer! Oh...and October is also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
And again on (10/21/9):
Too right Greg. I'm actually allergic to marijuana...but I'm smart enough to know that there is a huge difference between drug abuse and medicinal use. Kudos!
Great to hear from you...twice...Angie! Mary Kay does, in fact, do quite a bit for domestic violence awareness and breast cancer research. Of course now I have to throw out some more links!
www.marykay.com/lmilligan2 That one is to buy Mary Kay from my Mom!
http://www.domesticviolence.org This one is to get information on domestic violence, including some stats, and what to do if you need help. Really...there are people to help you.
And we agree on the medicinal Mary Jane issue. For God's sake...we prescribe a lot worse than pot to people every minute of every day in this country. We prescribe things that require other prescriptions to cure the side effects of the initial prescription. How insane is that?? All you need to cure the side effects of pot is a bag of Doritos.
I've had a lot of conversations with people on this pot issue. I don't know ANYONE that is against the use of pot for medicinal purposes, unless people just aren't disagreeing with me to my face. The personal use debate is still out there, and there are a lot of people on both sides. But this medicinal use issue seems to be pretty clear to me.
I am headed to Charleston tonight to begin the fantasy basketball season. I've been doing a league with my buddy Mike (owner of Sound Source Music in Mattoon) for almost a decade now...and we always get together on draft night. It is an annual tradition. Should be fun. Have a great weekend!
10/22/9
Here is something I recently stumbled upon. The following is a website to a company that is providing an anonymous way to pay for things online. Apparently you give these people money, and they have come up with a way for you to pay for things online without having to give a bunch of companies your credit card or personal information.
I have not used the website, or its service. I do not know anyone that has. But like everything else I link here...check it out for yourself. If you are a person that buys a lot of things online...it might be worth looking into!
10/22/9
We are starting to see more rain head this way. For farmers...I hope you got most of your work done early this week...cause you won't have much to do until next week at this point! At StormCenter 17 in the month of October we have already had over 6 inches of rain. Typically by this time of the month we only have a little over 2 inches. It just continues what has been a very, very wet year for us.
But I trust in the process of Mother Nature. I am sure we are getting what we are supposed to get, for whatever reason we are getting it!
Honestly...that is about all I have this morning. For some reason I don't find myself with opinions today. I am sure that will change, and I will want to rant about something by the end of the morning. If that is the case maybe I will update the blog later today. Otherwise...we will just hold off until tomorrow!
Tomorrow is "Feedback Friday". Get your feedback in now to make it in time for tomorrow's posting. Also...sign up for email alerts so you never miss a blog! Yeah...it's THAT important!
10/21/9
Kudos to the Obama Administration for agreeing to stop prosecuting places that sell medical marijuana. I've ranted here about this before, and I still feel the same way. Pharmaceutical companies create drugs that are far worse for us than marijuana. Those drugs are legal with a prescriptio, n. Marijuana is a completely natural plant. It is illegal. Doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
Again...I am not a marijuana user, per se. I am not sure that recreational pot use should be legal. But I do not want to tell someone with 6 months to live that they can not smoke marijuana to help them eat. Many states have made medical marijuana use legal, yet the federal government was still prosecuting medical marijuana centers/sellers/users. I'm just saying...it's a good thing that President Obama has called off the dogs, in my opinion.
Here is an idea. Why don't we spend more time on this blog watching an on going conversation between me and my Mom!
From Mom (10/20/9):
Greg, Thank you my son for the immediate post. There will be a free gift for anyone who orders MK products from me and mentions this blog.
I have checked out your new business venture, it is a great company and you should do well with it.
Love,
Mom
Well, Mom...you did squeeze me out of you all those years ago. The least I can do is give you a little bit of space on my blog to build your business. Besides...if you build it into an empire I should get at least a little slice of it after you die. So it benefits both of us when I let you use this space!
(Note to non-family readers: I know that seemed harsh...but I have told you before...that is how we roll in my family!!)
It's awesome of you to give the "Weather...or Not" readers a special deal, too. Here is the website where folk can cash in on the deal: http://www.marykay.com/lmilligan2
And you are right about my thing. It is a good company, they provide good services at a cheaper price, and they actually are in the forefront of the next big thing in communication technology. I am glad I am getting in "on the ground floor", as they say. The future is bright! (Send me an email if you'd like to hear about it Trumbold@acn.com)
"Feedback Friday" is fast approaching. Get your thoughts in now so I will have time to include them in this week's edition! The feedback form is up top. At some point I think I need to run a contest on the ole weather blog. Maybe sometime soon we can get something crankin around here!
10/20/9
I got some feedback yesterday that I think I should probably go ahead and post today.
From Mom in Mattoon (10/19/9):
Wow, Greg! I never thought of using your blog as a place to "advertise" my business, but I guess if others are doing it, I can too. lol I would like your readers to know that I, your mother, am a Mary Kay Consultant and would love to be their personal consultant. MK is one of the largest direct sellers of skin care and color cosmetics in the world and we have the best products I have ever used.
Please visit my webpage at www.marykay.com/lmilligan2 or email me at lmilligan2@marykay.com.
Have a wonderful day, my son, and keep up the good work.
Love,
Mom
There are people that work here that use Mary Kay stuff, and they say it really is good. Do my Mom a favor and give her a look. Maybe she will have something that you like!
Sure...it is okay to pimp your business here, but I have to be careful. If The Suits catch wind of it they will want to start charging people for it! While I love helping my friends and family I do not want this blog to be taken over by those that are a little more "corporate minded". So as long as your plug is not over the top I will allow them on the blog.
So...I was shopping at B. Lime, The Green Store, the other day...and I found a solar-powered oven. Are you freakin kidding me? They now have ovens that use solar power to cook things. How cool is that??
My new business venture is starting to pick up steam, as I have mentioned here before. People are starting to come to me for savings on cell phone service and cell phones, satellite TV service, ADT Home Security systems, local/long distance home phone service, and internet service. It really is going to be a successful venture, I think. And it is not too late to get involved yourself. Drop me a line if you want to save money...or make money...or both! Trumbold@acn.com
Don't forget that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. There is a good website to hit for more information. http://www.feelyourboobies.com/
Have you called Jessie for a haircut yet? Frankly...and I am not sure how to tell you this so I will just put it out there...you could use a little hair attention. You better give my girl Jessie a call to make an appointment. (217) 422-4877
Again...if you want to use this blog to pimp your business go ahead and send me the information. But really...I don't want this area to become one big shill. It just wouldn't be right...or classy. Now get in your car and drive to Burger King. I think you can get a good deal on a Whopper on Tuesday mornings...
10/19/9
--Is it really that shocking that this balloon boy situation would be a hoax? Reality TV is mostly a ridiculous genre, in my opinion. And outside of "The Biggest Loser" I stay away from such shows. The family involved with this balloon scam is apparently a reality TV family. So...no...it did not surprise me to hear that there might be charges pressed. As a matter of fact...that family wasted law enforcement's time on purpose...so I say string ‘em up in the streets to make an example of them. It's just too bad the kids got caught up in the whole ordeal.
--Can I just take a second to say how bad one of my fantasy football teams is doing?? I am only doing two leagues this season, and am not excelling in either. But my money league team is horrendous. Really.
--I have found a way to take out my frustration on the cable company that we all know and love. It involves that money making situation I have been blathering about for weeks. See...sometime this week I am switching to Dish Network. Part of the money thing involves me getting people discounts when they switch to satellite TV. I love it! Who says you can't fight monopolies??
--I think I almost have my sinus infection beaten. The meds were done on Saturday. Now I just have to wait a few more days before the meds are out of my system, and the sinus infection should go with it. This is part of my semi-annual cold. This time, though, it stuck around long enough to become a problem that required the use of Western medicine. You know how much I love that...
I suppose that is all for now. It is time for me to put on my makeup and get ready for the big show. If you have any thoughts you would like to share feel free to send me some feedback. The form is at the top of the page. If it is timely I will post it soon. If it can wait...I will post it on "Feedback Friday"!
By the way...we will get close to 70 degrees a couple of times this week. I am really looking forward to that!
10/16/9
Scot England missed the first part of the week because he was "on assignment" in Florida. I can not tell you what he was doing down there...but I think you will see it soon enough. Yesterday morning when Scot came down to the studio before the news he says, "We are having Beaver in the studio this morning."
Obviously the above statement can be taken a few different ways. We get the zoo people around here quite a bit this time of the year as they gear up for "Boo at the Zoo". It could be that they were bringing in real beavers.
Occasionally we have people come in and cook for us in the morning. You know how much I love food. Could have been that someone was coming in to cook beaver for us yesterday morning. Maybe it is some kind of Fall cuisine?
Nope. As it turns out...Scotty was talking about THE Beaver. Jerry Mathers sat in with us for about half an hour yesterday. There are two times in the last five years that I have been nervous at work. The first was when Barrack Obama was in the studio when he was running to be the Illinois Senator. The second was yesterd, ay morning when I was sitting on the anchor desk next to Jerry Mather. He reached over to shake my hand...and my palm was actually a little sweaty! Embarrassing, to be sure.
Jerry Mathers was a very nice guy, and had some great stories to tell us. He is doing what is becoming his annual tour to help people get prescription meds...people that ordinarily could not afford their medicine. He is a class act, from what I could tell.
It is "Feedback Friday"!!!
From Phil in Cissna Park (10/13/9):
What a WONDERFUL relationship you have with your sister, Greg! When I first read the "Deer for Breakfast" title of that link, I thought...ho hum...someone figured out a new way to make deer bacon or deer sausage. Never did I expect to see the deer actually eating with that couple. How cool is that? Speaking of cool links, did you see the one of 5 young girls singing The Star Spangled Banner during a Texas basketball game on FaceBook? That one brought tears to my eyes.
Lisa and I used to antagonize each other growing up. As adults, though, we really are very good friends. We talk or text almost daily. She is good people.
Yeah...that deer video was pretty impressive! And that Star Spangled Banner is one of those goose bump videos that makes you glad you actually hit the link!
From Kirk in Chatham (10/14/9):
Thanks for the fabulous forecast! We always have a debate in the 970 WMAY Newsroom on whether to go with your forecast or just hide the truth from our listeners. Good day for a nap.
Yes, Kirk! Isn't this great weather! Hang in there. It gets better through at least the first part of next week...
From Mark in Decatur (10/15/9):
The other night I was watching a show that had the best piece of advice for people who get the flu bug or other diseases.
Simply stay home if you're sick.
I know everyone washes their hands until the flesh falls off the bone, but eventually you will get sick. That's why we have an immune system for.
Good advice, Mark. And hopefully we are past the point of employers making their employees feel like crap for taking sick days. Although...I still see the guilt happen. Progressive employers seem to understand that happy and healthy employees are much more productive employees! But if you treat your people like dirt, and don't allow them the time off they need to stay healthy...then you have crappy employees. Just makes common sense to me!
Another good point to your feedback alludes to the fact that we sometimes have to be sick to build up our immune systems. This is why it is not good to overuse that anti-bacterial stuff. We have to be exposed to a certain level of bad things so our bodies can learn how to defend against these nasty diseases.
From Trish in Decatur (10/15/9):
Greg, I am always reading your blog and there has always been good advice given. Would you please post this for me? I sell Beauty Control Products. The company itself has been around almost thirty years. We offer great skin care lines, detoxifying lines, and so much more. I hold spa escapes for those who would be interested. I come to you and share my products with you. There is no pressure on anyone to buy anything. I love these products and would like some feedback from others. This is also another way to make money. If anyone is interested my email is trish@mikemandrell.com
Well there you go. Anyone interested in trying some beauty control products risk free...drop Trish a line at her email address! Sounds like a pretty good deal! And you know how much I personally love feedback. Sounds like Trish could use some feedback as well!
Looks like the weather is finally going to break this weekend. While we may be done with the 70's for a while...hitting the 60's again will certainly be nice!
If you missed the NOAA Winter Outlook it is on yesterday's blog. Just scroll down a couple of inches and it is at the top of yesterday's blog. Have a great weekend!
10/15/9
An update!
Here is a link to the NOAA Winter Weather Outlook. It looks like they think it MIGHT be a little bit drier and warmer than average for most of us in the C-I. Take it with a grain of salt...but El Nino is lo, oking to make a big impact this season.
10/15/9
Our friend Phil from Cissna Park has a timely message for us! Here it is:
Please tell everyone to get their flu shots, Greg, and to wash their hands often in order to prevent bacterial spread. H1N1 is expected to fill hospital beds, and I want all of our friends to stay safe and healthy this season. Also, it is recommended that you get the seasonal flu shot prior to the H1N1 vaccination.
Good advice, Phil! For me personally I don't do the flu shots. But then I never get the flu. But for people that are susceptible...absolutely do what Phil says! He works for people that deal with the aftermaths of these little epidemics...so he knows of which he speaks!
I am a big believer in hand washing, too. I have even ranted about it here on the ole weather blog. You would be amazed at how much healthier our society would be as a whole if people would just do more of that one simple act...wash your hands once in a while!!
Today is the day that NOAA puts out its Winter Outlook. It's basically their description of what they think our Winter will bring, and their breakdown of why they think it will do what they think it will do. I mentioned this yesterday...they are usually pretty accurate. The announcement will be at 9 this morning. If I catch it later today I will post it today. Otherwise I will mention it tomorrow. I am curious to see what they have to say!
Tomorrow is "Feedback Friday"! Get your thoughts/comments/concerns/questions in now! No one has asked me anything about my co-workers in a while...feel free. I will dish on some peeps if you ask! You can use the feedback form at the top of the blog to send me feedback. And...never miss a blog update! Sign up for email alerts now! Everything must go...because we are CRAZY...
10/14/9
I have been fighting a cold/cough for about three weeks. About twice a year I get this, and it usually lasts about a month. It starts in my throat for a day, moves to my nose for a day or two, and then hits my chest. I cough for a couple of weeks and then it is done. This time, though, my throat got sore yesterday morning again. So I decided to go to the doctor to get some help with it so I wouldn't go through it twice.
I decided that instead of going to my regular doctor it might be quicker to hit one of those "Express Doc in a box" clinics. I might have been wrong about that. I sat at the DMH Express on the north side of Decatur for 3 hours waiting to see the doctor. When the Doc came in...and she was a very nice woman...I told her what was wrong with me and what I needed. She looked at my nose and my throat, agreed with my diagnoses, and wrote me a prescription. It took 20 seconds, literally. I waited 3 hours to get 20 seconds with a doctor to agree with what I already knew.
Pat the Doula has contacted me back. She is preparing some information for this blog, and when she sends it we will have our big discussion on Doulas. Not sure why...but something about Doulas and Pat just struck a chord with me.
There are some events coming up that people have notified me about that I need to pass along. I love getting feedback and emails from this blog, and honestly...some mornings this blog is basically just emails that you have sent me. Makes my job a little e, asier...and passes along good stuff!
This weekend there is a benefit for a kid named Adam Carter. Adam is an 11 year old with a rare form of cancer. The benefit is Saturday from 5 to 11 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Decatur. "Rock of Ages" will be playing, and I hear they are a good band. "Killborn Alley" will also play...but I don't know anything about them. They are also planning to have food and some auctions. It appears to be a good time for a good cause, if you are looking for something to do this weekend...put it on your list! http://www.helpadamfightcancer.com
The following day, Sunday, the Windsor High School Volleyball team is having a pasta dinner to raise money for their team. It starts at 11 at the Windsor Grade School. They are doing dine-in, carry-out...and even delivery...which is pretty cool! (217) 254-7054 for more info on that!
And then the day after that, Monday, the "Volley for the Cure" event will be at Windsor High School. This is a breast cancer fund raiser, to help the Susan G. Komen Foundation, which supports breast cancer research. The first volleyball match starts around 5 at the high school.
Also...tomorrow the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is releasing their Winter outlook for this year. There is a press conference at 9 A.M. CST for this bad boy. While this prediction is just that...a prediction...these peeps are spot-on a lot of the time. I might post what they have to say on the blog in the next couple of days. With our mild Summer and so far wet Fall...a lot of people are very interested to hear what our Winter might bring.
Those are just a few of the things coming up around here! Elsewhere...my little niece had her first post-birth doctor's appointment and is doing very well! And that business venture I have been blogging about recently is starting to take off! It is still not too late for you to get some information about it. Just drop me a line if you have interest...
10/13/9
Today was going to be a blog about Doulas. There is a change of plans. I decided to go ahead and contact my sister's Doula to see if she would like to contribute anything to the conversation. This is an extremely busy woman, and it may take her a bit to respond. But when she does I will then blog about Doulas.
Until then...we have deer! Someone sent in a link to a video that you might enjoy. http://www.snotr.com/video/2772
"Feedback Friday"! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kIEbY8Km7I
Enter at your own risk…
From Lisa in Myrtle Beach (9/29/9):
Okay, maybe I am a little cranky. And at this point I can't deny that I am large. When are you gonna be here anyways? I am excited for you to get here. See ya soon!
Well hello, Big Little Sister! I will be there sometime Saturday evening, I think...so you have about 36 hours to get the crank out! I am looking forward to hanging out by the ocean, or the pool, and keeping people from trying to stick you with a harpoon! Heh.
From Anonymous (9/29/9):
Hi Greg,
Thanks for the 2 YouTube videos on the senior citizen. The videos were well prepared, and with truly spoken words of many concerned citizens. Is this what we older generation need to have, Death Counseling benefits?
A very long time ago I have learned we don't live for ever, but I refuse to sit back and let a Government dictate when they pull the plug. Heck, they just did away with the Living Will clause, when you write your will. Could this video have been influenced by another Political Party? Perhaps, but the older I get being retired, living off my pension, I could well fit in on these Town Meetings.
I have always sided with the Democrats for what they have stood for, the working man. But with past news about almost all of them, voting to give our SS Benefits to Illegal people, and now the recent news about including them in with the Proposed Health Care Coverage. I am highly peeved off. What in the heck do these elected people think we are? Idiots? Fools? Or whatever they throw at us we will swallow it?
I am sure you aren't in favor of this National Debt sky rocketing. Nor the fact, it will be placed on the younger generation. Heck, I used to have a good Health Care coverage. But I am now faced with a coverage cost taken out of my pension from where I retired, and every two years or so it goes up again. Not in small increments either.
Change from what we had was desperately needed. With throwing out all this money, with closed eyes is just mind boggling, and it surely isn't the cure for all the problems we face.
I have always been opened minded, but I am not that open minded to let my brains fall out. Years ago, when someone like Bill O'Riley, Glen Beck, would come on TV, the channel would have been changed, now I listen and decipher on my own, what they are trying and say.
In closing, enjoy your vacation, have a safe and enjoyable trip.
I am a big fan of Bill Maher. I love his HBO show "Real Time". While I do not agree with everything Bill Maher says...I think his views on health care of spot on. He has said that he believe in prevention of illness, as opposed to treating symptoms like we do in this country. He has also said that medical insurance companies are worthless middlemen that create way too much bureaucracy that blows up our cost for health coverage.
I think that last point is at the root of our health care issue today. You already know I am a fan of Barrack Obama the man. But you have to separate your inclinations when talking about Barrack Obama the President. I don't think he has been strong enough about bringing us the change he promised. I realize it is not his responsibility to write new legislation. But I think he needs to take a stronger stand on the health care issue.
The proposed bills brought forward so far seem to me to be insurance company crap. Granted...I have not read everything line for line...who has time for that? But the highlights I have seen seem to have been written in some cases by the insurance companies themselves. Is America the kind of country that is basically a corporation? Really?
I think that insurance companies should not insure health care. I think health care should be left up to the government. Is that Socialism? Well...I don't care. So what if it is? Why are we so afraid of the government handling certain aspects of our lives? Would , you rather have your government in charge of your health care, or a for-profit business whose job it is to deny coverage for whatever they can? You know what...the latter is exactly what we have now, if you are lucky enough to have an insurance carrier for your health care.
From Christine in Decatur (10/1/9):
Hey Greg! I have an important message for all of your readers, so please post! :) From your friendly neighborhood cancer researcher:
11/11/9
Yesterday someone sent me a link that is simply amazing to me. While I was in Myrtle Beach for my little niece's birth I blogged with updates on my sister's labor. It's kind of fitting that this link be posted with an actual birth. Now…don't worry…it is not a human birth. It is the birth of an elephant.
Naturally I need to warn you that the video is graphic. But it is completely natural. I'm not sure if I will get in trouble for posting this or not…but at least I am warning you that the video is of a natural, live birth…and it does not hold back. But it is something that I think the average person can easily handle.
In my opinion it is beautiful, and a little gross. But this particular video has an added element of suspense and surprise that starts around 3:30 into it. If you frequent this blog you know that most of the time I probably care about animals more than many people I know. Heh. Well…this video had me worried for a bit. The suspense is drawn out a bit, and exquisite…I think.
So watch the video is you like. If not…that's fine, too. And as with anything else around here you are more than welcome to send me feedback about anything you think/feel/question. The form is above.
Also…more people have been signing up for email alerts for the blog. You can do that above, also. That way you never miss and update…and it makes me look better with The Suits. When I get in trouble for something I can always point to how popular this blog has become! "See…you NEED me to work here…"
Also...the blog got feedback from my little sister yesterday. I figured I would share it today, too!
From Lisa in Myrtle Beach (10/12/9):
Wow. I am feeling love from everywhere, and yes, I cried while reading this. I can't help it. I am just so happy and lucky. Thanks to all of your readers for their well wishes and thanks to you for being such a great brother. I am glad you were here to experience this with us. I look forward to tomorrow's blog.
Well...tomorrow's blog is on hold. But I think it will be well worth the wait! And sorry to make you cry!
I'm really glad that the timing worked out, too, Lisa. Being there for the process was unexpected...for all of us...but it was very special to be there. You are pretty great as far as sisters go, too!
Now before I cry...
10/12/9
I think I might have a little vacation hang over. It's always fun getting back into the routine after some great time off, isn't it?!? Nah...it's not so bad. But it was tough getting up EARLY this morning. I think if it were an option for me I could live the rest of my life without working again. I love my job, don't get me wrong. But there is something nice about living with no responsibility what-so-ever...at least once in a while!
There was quite a bit of feedback over the weekend from well-wishers for my sister, brother-in-law, and new niece. I will go ahead and post it today. Baby and Mommy are home and healthy. The Bro-In-Law is also doing well. Now they get to settle into their new routine.
Tomorrow I will probably tell you all about the Doula. But for now...here is some feedback...
From Phil in Cissna Park (10/2/9):
Hey Greg;
Have a safe and enjoyable trip through the Smokey Mtns. I will be going through that way during the end of October. I, too, love , the drive through there and have made the trip many times in all kinds of weather. Be safe, my friend and best wishes for Sis' delivery.
Thanks, Phil! Yeah...the mountains were beautiful! And of course the best part of the trip was the big delivery! You have a good and safe trip at the end of the month! It really is a tremendous drive.
From Trish in Decatur (10/2/9):
Greg, I hope you have a great, safe trip. As for your sister, her bundle of joy will be here sooner or later, and she has every right to be cranky at this point.
Hi, Trish! Yeah...Lisa was a little cranky for a day or two. But honestly...the woman did about 34 hours of labor without a drop of medicine. During her labor she would take in the pain without complaint and then we were joking around in between her contractions. That is one bad %^& little woman, truly.
From Mom in Mattoon (10/5/9):
Greg, Sure wish I were there with you now. Be sure to take some pictures for Grandma; I will be there as soon as I can after things start happening. Have a wonderful time, rest, and have a safe trip home.
I love you,
Mom
Mom...you almost made it in time for the delivery! But you are there now, and will be for another week or two. So you are still soaking up Granddaughter time! And I know they love having you there and appreciate the help!
From Dena in Decatur (10/5/9):
Greg,
I think it's wonderful you are blogging. I look forward to your daily (weekdays) (when you are not taking the day off) blog. Glad you had a safe journey.
Have a great time! Safe travels coming home!!
All my best,
Dena
And just for kicks... because you aren't here to say it... WEATHERBUG. lol
Awww...Dena...you are cracking me up! I started doing the "weatherbug" thing a few months ago, mostly out of boredom from having to say it all the time. But it has caught on, hasn't it?? I was at the store a couple of weeks ago and someone said it to me as I was walking past them. That was pretty cool!
And thanks for being a devoted reader, Dena!
From Sue in Decatur (10/6/9):
Screams are a good sign. It's when she SCREAMS that you should take cover. Just saying...
Oh, and I agree. Always lubricate.
Hi, Sue! Yes...yes...there is ALWAYS time to lubricate! For anyone that missed that reference it is from the movie "Evolution". It's really a funny movie if you watch it in the right frame of mind!
Another from Phil in Cissna Park (10/7/9):
Hey Greg. I am glad I have my "boy parts" too. I went through the labor and delivery process with four of my five children. I was in awe each and every time. But you know what took me aback and still has to this day? My son, Geoff, was in a normal labor pattern until the nurse came in and gave my then wife a shot to induce labor. She was fine for 15 minutes or so...then all of a sudden my son did four flips(alligator death rolls) in the womb. His heart rate dropped to near nothing as he was strangling himself in the umbilical cord and there was utter chaos after that with an emergency C-section delivery. The then wife was fine, but a herd of doctors was around my son who was not breathing when he was born, a time of birth designated by the time on MY watch. This was in February of 1984. He is now a Fireman with the Winston-Salem, NC Fire Department. He is my youngest...and what a wonderful addition he has been to my life. Though a handful with ADHD issues, I wouldn't have him any other way.
So, what I am alluding to, is that birth is a glorious event, but what really can weigh on everyone is if there are complications. In either case, every second is precious and through all of their births...well, those were the most rewarding parts of my life.
That's a great story, Phil. I won't get into this rant this morning, but tomorrow when I start talking about the Doula I will probably hit some points about how messed up our birthing practices have become!
Glad to hear your son is doing so well! Thanks for sharing that story.
From Elizabeth in Decatur (10/8/9):
Greg, wonderful news that the baby has finally arrived. Congratulations to your family and great work by you sister and husband. You probably could have left out the nose comment. Have a safe trip home and see you on the tv next week.
Thanks, Elizabeth! Yeah...the nose comment. I can't help it, tho! She is a beautiful little girl...but she does have the Trumbold nose, at least right now! It looks good on her, however...
From Robert in Decatur (10/8/9):
Greg,
CONGRATS!!!!!! I just had my first niece born on Oct.2nd. She was 6lbs. 8oz's "very adorable"!
My bro. named her after my mother who passed away on July 19th of this year. Emely Joan Marie.
I know how proud you are!!! So 1 thing that we have in common is that we have that someone special to spoil for many years to come!!!!!!
Robert B.
(proud uncle)
Congrats, Robert! It's pretty cool being an uncle. I already have a nephew...but Alexa is my first niece. I am sure that will be a unique experience! Your brother chose a good name, too!
From Angie in Charleston (10/8/9):
Greg...so happy for your family! Please tell your sister that she did an awesome and wonderful job!
Thanks, Angie! My little sister did, in fact, do an awesome job! And that Brother-in-law of mine matched her step for step!
From Pamela in Mount Zion (10/8/9):
Awwww, Greg,
Your last blog was so sweet. I'm sure that your little sis will cry when she reads it! Congratulations to you all!
I'm not sure if Lisa has caught up on the blog yet. But she will at some point. I hope it doesn't make her cry!!
From Mary Jo in Decatur (10/8/9):
Congrats Uncle Greg! Hope your si, ster and baby continue to do well. You have a safe trip back home.
Thanks, Mary Jo!
From Tiffany in Woodland (10/8/9):
Congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks, Tiffany!!
From Sonja in Clinton (10/9/9):
Greg. Congratulations to your si, ster and her family on their new little bundle of joy. Nothing is more precious than a baby girl. My daughter Kelley is 16 now and I believe you've talked to her on myspace before. I think back to her days as a baby and cherish every memory. Have a safe trip on your way back home.
Hey, Sonja! Yeah...I've chatted with Kelley. She's seems like a good kid. Nice job!
The trip back home was terrific. I mentioned I was stopping by to see a friend in Charlotte for a day or so. After spending the first part of the vacation in the hospital on baby watch...it was good to hit Charlotte and cut loose a bit!
From Sandy in Decatur (10/9/9):
Hello Greg, CONGRATULATIONS to your family & especially to Lisa!!!!!!! What precious times with more to come for each of you. It was great that you could be there for the special event. I've been watching your blog & Thank You for being so loyal to it.
I'll check out your website more soon for the new biz adventure. Looked it over quickly just now. Good Luck!!
It'll be great to see you back on air... hopefully Tara will bring in some of her famous chili for you. She should anyway. :) Happy Trails~
Hey, Sandy! It's funny to think that I was just going out there to hang out with my sister while she was pregnant. We figured we would just hang by a pool or on the beach for a few days, and then I would come back home. She wasn't due until the 17th of this month. The timing really worked out well!
Please do check out the website! Even for people not interested in joining...there are still ways to save money on services you are probably already using. When you get to the home page just look for the products tab. And of course...if you have any questions feel free to email me!
Thanks for checking on the blog while I was on vacation. And thank you for all the well wishes. It was certainly a memorable trip! Tomorrow, probably, I will tell you about the Doula!
10/7/9
Okay...sorry. I knew this would happen. I was so go, od with the updates, and then when the big moment came I would not be near a computer for a long time to update the blog! Although I was able to update my personal FaceBook account , on my phone...I can't do the blog from the phone.
So...at just about 2:30 this afternoon, EST, Alexa Grace finally came out to say hello. She checked in at 6.88 pounds (why do people get so excited about the weight??) and was around 20 inches, I think. Mom, Dad, and Baby are doing well! The kid has the distinguished Trumbold nose, God help her...and will be gorgeous. (That's actually probably true, for those of you that may have seen my little sister before).
Speaking of my little sis...I don't even know how to put this into words...but that chick is astounding. She started labor around 4 AM EST on Tuesday morning. Lisa and her hubby were set against any kind of meds, because of the impact they have on the baby. So my little sister endured almost 36 hours of labor...and did not have one friggin drop of medicine. Really. No epi-whatever. No dilation meds. She had herself...the kid in her belly...my tremendous brother-in-law...and her Doula through her entire labor. And that little sister of mine took the whole thing in such a way that leaves me speechless to describe how she did it. I am truly in awe of her.
Tomorrow I will begin my journey home. I have a stop to make to see a friend...and should be home Friday night or early Saturday morning. Monday morning I will be back at work, and will probably do some feedback here on the blog that morning. Unless something big happens I won't post again here until Monday...probably!
Thanks for following along this week. I know this has no impact on your life...as this blog is mostly about me, my thoughts, and my life...but I thank you for coming here over and over again! Send thoughts/comments/concerns using the feedback form above. Also...my sister reads this thing religiously...except for the past day or so...if you want to leave her a well-wish I will post it sometime early next week! I know some of you know her...and might want to send her a word. You can do it here if you like! And I may see if I can't get her permission to post a pic or two of Alexa in the next few days!
10/7/9
Holy crap. Still no niece! I mean...she is there. She just hasn't come out to say hello yet! As of right now (8:14 in Illinois) we are a little over 28 hours of labor.
We got to the hospital around midnight last night. She got checked into her room...changed into her gown...and I got kicked out. I spent a few hours in the waiting room until my bro-in-law came in to tell me we were about half way there! By the way...I don't know if I could think more of that dude. He really is the best person in the world for my little sister...and he has been tremendous through this entire process.
When the B.I.L. told me we were half way there...he told me to just go home and sleep for a bit. He said I might as well since I was t, he only one that could! So I came back to their house and slept for a few hours. Now I am straightening up the house so it will be tidy when they get back. She is at 8 centimeters, and I will head back to the hospital in about an hour. It shouldn't be long after that!
And can I just say...I am happy as Hell that I have boy parts! Really...my family and friends have had babies before, but this is as close to this process as I have been. Women...wow. Truly the stronger gender...and dudes...it isn't even close!
10/6/9
So we are still at my sister's house. She is still in labor. I am here. My sister is here. Her husband is here. And the Doula is here. We're just waiting on the baby! I will blog about the Doula in a day or two. I won't now...because it will set me into a serious anti-Western medicine rant. But let me just say that this Doula is freaking tremendous. I have learned a ton about a lot of things today...and Pat the Doula is a big part of that. (She seems to be a wonderful person.)
So we are waiting for the "serious labor" to begin before we head to the hospital. I think the kid will arrive early tomorrow morning...but some are thinking maybe tomorrow night. Either way...I will keep you posted, whether you want to be...or not!
10/6/9
So apparently my little niece is not going to let me get out of Myrtle Beach without a face-to-face. Yep. Contractions have begun! Now...it could be another day or two...but something tells me by tonight we will be hearing screams. First they will come from my little sister...and then from my little niece! The due date is the 17th...but peeps in my family always like to be places a little early.
I will keep you posted!
10/5/9
So I am laying (lying??) here on an air mattress on the floor of what will soon be my little niece's bedroom. The walls are VERY pink, and the new baby stuff is everywhere...just w, aiting for the chance to prove its worth. I can hear my sister in the kitchen getting her coffee for the morning. My brother-in-law is still asleep, after staying up late to watch Football Night in America on NBC last night. He's a Steelers' fan...but I love the guy anyway.
Last week on the blog I poked fun at my sister because she has obviously gained some mass with this kid living inside her. Well...as it turns out...I did not make enough fun of her. The woman's belly is MASSIVE! Heh. She is beautiful, though. But it is kind of strange to see just how large the belly has become. And of course it's strange and awesome to see the perfectly round belly get lopsided when my niece starts rolling around, or whatever she is doing in there. I don't want to get all maudlin on you this early in the week...but I'm feeling the love of the Circle of Life this morning.
The drive out here was perfect. It took me a couple of hours Saturday morning to drive out from under the clouds and sprinkles in Illinois and part of Indiana. But by the time I hit Indianapolis the clouds were almost gone and the sun was coming out. It was sunny and perfect from then until I pulled up in front of my sister's house. I mis-timed catching the sunset through the mountains...which is good because it would have meant getting to The Beach close to midnight. But even without the sunset the Smokies are a tremendous site. If you ever get the chance or have the reason...you have to make the drive sometime. It is worth it.
So...nothing eventful really happened on the trip out. It was serene...and peaceful...and I loved the alone time. I had great tunes on the satellite radio. I listened to Illinois catch another beating from Penn State. (Seriously, Illinois. Can you pick it up a little and play with a little heart before the season is through??) And now I am chillin at The Beach. I think I will mostly be on my own today, as Lisa is meeting with her birthing people. I think I will hit the mall to pick up a couple of things, and then maybe stroll the beach for a while. I will be thinking of you fondly as I walk along the ocean. It is actually rainy here today...but that only means I will have more space to myself on the beach. It's also about 80 degrees.
10/2/9
Next week I will be on vacation. I am driving solo to Myrtle Beach to see my sister, who should be having a baby sometime this month. I have made this drive alone a few times...and I love it. Usually I time it just right to catch the sunset coming through the Smokey Mountains...and it is tremendous! There is something about being on the road alone for 15 hours at a time that just appeals to me. And frankly...I could use the alone time right now.
So as a reminder...I will be updating the blog a couple of times next week. But the updates probably won't be happening before 5 every morning. So if you want to be able to keep up with the updates next week sign up for the email alerts at the top of this page. Then when I update the blog you will get an email reminder and you won't have to keep checking back to look for updates.
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