Hoops had his baby all cleaned up 

Patti's little friend  

Somewhere in New Mexico 

The best chicken fried steak! 

For some reason I can't receive any new e-mails from adelphia since I logged on in New Mexico. I sent out several reponses so if you haven't heard back it's due to internet problems. It's really amazing to me that I can sit here in a campground on a picnic table and send pictures to my blog and sort of check my e-mail. But, apparently they do not have all the bugs worked out with this wi-fi stuff.
We had our first weather last night. After I logged off it started just pouring buckets, lightning and thunder. It's been awhile since I heard anything like that.
Well, we're off to Shreveport today and then on to New Orleans. If you want you can try to e-mail me at my AOL address:
RevaRenee@Aol.com
I erased the 100 ads for viagra, penis enlargement, and mortgages so I might be able to receive mail there.

Nice hat Hoops.........matches those new flaming boots! 

Stan & Patti at McCole's 

At McCole's in New Mexico with Rose, my karaoke partner. 

On the road again......... 

Chicken fried steak..........I think I gained 10 pounds! 

It was a long day but here we are in Denton, Texas at Destiny Dallas RV Park. We had dinner at this place tonight called "Catfish O'harlies's" where you have to fill out a form with your driver's license in order to purchase a beer. Weird! I guess it used to be a dry county and so the restuarant is a private club where they put you in a computer to see who you really are. Different, that's for sure. Anyway, I had the largest chicken fried steak I've ever seen in my life! Hoops had frog legs, catfish, & crab something or other.
Anyway, we head to Shreveport tomorrow, it should be a quick trip. I'm exhausted..........time for sleep!

More Cook-Off fun with Leisa, Trish, and her oh so adorable daughter. 

Cook Off with Dino, Terry, and Terry's boys 

Registering voters at the Tustin Chili Cook-Off last Sunday. 

In front of Stan & Patti's house. 

A better picture on the road 

RV & Purple Harley 

Well I guess I have some explaining to do. I have decided to take a road trip across this great country. A friend of mine is moving back to Georgia where he signed on for two more years in the Marines. Hoops (short for his last name Hooper) could've retired after twenty years in but decided not to. Anyway, so we loaded up the RV, hooked it on to the Ford F250 power stroke diesel, put the Harley on the back and here we are in Amarillo, Texas.
The first two days was mostly driving. We stayed in Williams on the first night, which is a cute little old fashioned town. We then went to Albuquerque, or rather Placitas where Hoops good friends Stan & Patti live. We had so much fun with them. We went golfing at Santa Ana Golf Club (figures I go all the way to New Mexico and end up right back in Santa Ana). It's beautiful out there with the mountain range in the background. Anyway, after golf we went to a local bar, McCole's, and sang karaoke. Next on to Santa Ana Star casino where Hoops won $400. What a perfect day!
The following day we took the bike out for a ride and went to meet Desiree for lunch at Laundry's. Desiree is Dino's mom who lives in Albuquerque but visits us at deva's several times a year. There isn't a helmet law in New Mexico which is so nice! The sunset was gorgeous riding out in the mountains. Then we played Uno with Stan & Patti, which is a lot of fun. I haven't played Uno since I lived in Ohio.
So we left New Mexico yesterday and drove to Amarillo where I'm using "hotspotzz" at a KOA campground to get all this online. We'll be leaving in a few hours to go to Denton.
If any of you know me, you know I'm not the campground type. But I have to tell you, everyone should do this at least once. It's a great way to see this country!
We watched Ronald Reagan's funeral yesterday. That was quite an impressive service. It was a sad day, I felt so much for Nancy and their children.
As soon as we got in Texas we stopped for fuel and the first person we met was a Democrat! Hoops said something nice about Reagan and this little old lady just complaining about how there's nothing on TV because of all the Reagan stuff. There's people all over not thinking straight!
Well, gotta get going. I'll have more for you when I can find another "hotspotzz."

At the 19th hole after golf with a couple bloody Mary's and Stanley 

At the Santa Ana Golf Club in New Mexico 

At the Santa Ana Golf Club in New Mexico 

Me & Hoops in Placitas, New Mexico  

I finally have internet access! I'll write more tomorrow! I'm using hotspotzz at a KOA campground in Amarillo, Texas. Miss you all!

A truly wonderful American passed away today. God Bless Ronald Reagan's family. Thank you God for giving us such a great man!

Well, Cyrano was very very looooong! I enjoyed it but the person I went with agreed more with the person who wrote the review in the OC Register yesterday. Basically it was too long and his nose was way wrong.
No time, I'm off to the OCFRW meeting today where Bill Jones be speaking.

Time sure does fly! I went to see "Annie Get Your Gun" on Sunday at the Fullerton Civic Light Opera. It was a cute show! Tonight I am going to see Cyrano De Bergerac at the South Repertory. I'm just so busy I'm going to burn out! I was up at 5am this morning doing payroll and paying bills. It just seems like there is never enough time! Maybe it's more like I am trying to do too much. Well, you only live once!

The great golf instructors at the Marriott! 

More Palm Desert 

Pictures from my room in Palm Desert 

Back at deva's with Dee Dee, Rachael, & Marina 

Palm Desert was great! I really liked it out there this time of year, I wouldn't want to be there when it reaches 120 degrees. I lounged by the pool the first two days and then I played golf the last day with a fun bunch of individuals. I'll throw their pictures up later. I will have to go back out there again; I didn't realize it's only 100 miles away. The Marriott is the place to be, there must have been 500 people there on Saturday! Well, off to work for a change.........

As you can see by now, I finally figured out how to put pictures on my blog. I should have lots more after this weekend, I'm off to Palm Springs..............have a great weekend everyone!

Standing in front of the Governor's Office 

Picture from my "Party for the President" on April29th 

I have been busy golfing this week. Monday I played in a tournament at Anaheim Hills; they really sunk a lot of money into the new clubhouse. I actually got up early at 6am to golf which almost never happens. Yesterday I played at Tustin Ranch and it was a gorgeous day outside. There's nothing like a long walk on a sunny day with a bloody mary in hand. Oh yeah, and we golfed. Okay, on the back nine I golfed. On the front nine I was just enjoying the weather in between some of the most horrible drives ever. It was nice to be outside there instead of inside at a Board meeting for a change. TARWF holds all our meetings there and I'm always staring out at the greens jealous of all the golfers.
Well, I'm back to the boring paperwork.

You have to read Randy Youngman's column today on page 2 of the Sports section in the OC Register. deva's is actually mentioned along with the fact we carded Sergei Fedorov because we had no idea who he was:

http://www2.ocregister.com/ocrweb/ocr/article.do?id=94655§ion=SPORTS

Hey,I know baseball and basketball. I've only been to one hockey game and that was the Stanley Cup Finals!

I helped register voters on Sunday at the OC swapmeet with "Reggie the Registration Rig." What an impressive set up! If you have a chance to visit Reggie, you really should. There's a giant board you can sign showing your support for Bush that will make it's way back to the White House. It's also a lot of fun to volunteer. Get out there and be a Team Leader! I met Mario Rodriguez there who is the Vice-Chairman of the California Republican Party. It was a funny because I had just met and talked with Duf Sundheim, the Chairman of the CRP in Sacramento. It's nice to put faces with names and meet all these terrific Republicans!

I just wanted to share a couple of letters written to the President in support of Donald Rumsfeld:

Mr. President,

Sir, I'm a retired Marine working in Baghdad..with (KBR) for the past 17 months. Sir, I have seen a lot and the good overwhelms the bad. I would like to thank you and your truly professional staff. Thank you for the guidance and support. I honor you...standing shoulder to shoulder with Mr. Rumsfeld... a true American! Sir, I support the retention of Mr. Rumsfeld in his arduous job..Mr. President to you and the American people.

Proud American

Mike Cahill
Freedom Rest
Green Zone
Baghdad Iraq


Mr President,

Why do a few "bad apples" always have to ruin things
for everyone else?
I understand the gravity of the treatment of the Iraqi pow's is
a serious issue but I am also reminded of the treatment of
American pow's in other wars.
War has never been a civil or humane response to end conflicts between nations.
No nation has never gotten it right.
Mr. Rumsfeld, in my opinion is not at fault.
As Americans and human beings, we all share the responsibilities
of a few "bad apples".

Please don't fire Mr Rumsfeld!

Thank you,

Dino Bica

Send your own e-mails to : President@Whitehouse.gov

What a Monday! It was a usual hectic Monday at work today. A funny thing happened though. A handsome guy came into deva's today with a very attractive Swedish girl. They hung out for awhile, playing the jukebox, just having a good time. Turns out it was Sergei Fedorov! I did go out in the parking lot and ask for his autograph when he was leaving. I didn't want to bother them while they were relaxing. What a nice guy, extremely pleasant and down to earth. Well, time for dinner...........

The sun keeps distracting me from getting my work done!! I'll be registering voters on Sunday at the swapmeet with Reggie the Voter Registration Rig. Reggie is a great idea, you really should check it out. You can track Reggie's travels across America on the "Reggie the Registration Rig" website at: http://www.gopteamleader.com/reggie

I know I haven't gotten to Advocacy yet, I'm still working on it. Here's a link to a real good story about our President:

This is why Bush needs to get re-elected...

http://www.enquirer.com/editions/2004/05/06/loc_moment06.html

Where do I start? So much is happening and very quickly. The Party for the President on April 29th was a success! I read the letter from the President:

I am pleased to send best wishes to those gathered today in support of my reelection campaign. You are a crucial part of the effort, and I am grateful for your support. This election will be close, and your continued hard work and commitment is critical to our success.

I am honored to seek a second term as your President during this time of opportunity and challenge for our country. We are fighting to put an end to terrorism and advance the cause of freedom, to grow the economy, to strengthen our Nation’s healthcare, to protect the environment while achieving energy independence, and to encourage the true compassion of America throughout our country.

I believe we can accomplish these great goals by reaching out to the American people and by working together toward victory on Election Day.

Laura and I thank you for your hard work and dedication.

George W. Bush

Tim Whitacre spoke at the event in support of Dr. Alexandria for Congress in the 47th District, support for our Troops, and the extremely important rallying for our President George W. Bush! We had Federated Women attend from several local Federated Units. These women are terrific, and a ton of fun to be around! Mayor Pro-Tem, Lou Bone and his wife, Carol (Also a Federated Woman) came by, and the Mayor of Dana Point, Joe Snyder, stopped in. We even received a call showing his support of the President from a good friend, Mike, who is currently over in Baghdad doing a super job of protecting our interests.

This Party for the President will be the biggest event at deva's since the whole California Recall campaign!

Show up between 5-8pm!

I am soooo busy that I haven't had time to write. I'll have a full report on Advocacy in Sacramento and the Party for the President which is in a few hours! Also, all about the Bill Handel event!

Tonight we will be supporting Bush-Cheney, Chuck DeVore, Bill Jones, and Dr. Alexandria Coronado! Stop by if you read this in time! 5pm-8pm at deva's

I went to The Club House in South Coast Plaza last night to meet a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time, AJ. Actually he hired me to bartend years ago at one of my first real bartending jobs. It’s nice to catch up with people you haven’t seen in a long time, which seems to be happening quite frequently these days. I told AJ about eight years ago that he would really be hot in about ten years. Looks like he’s right on target! (I know he’s reading this, now his ego will be even bigger than his new Hummer.) We went over to Chat Noir afterwards, that place is just so busy anymore. I prefer the place earlier in the week when it’s slower and you can actually relax and listen to some good jazz.

I have a busy day tomorrow! I have training in the morning for the Bush Volunteers in Laguna, and then Bill Handel will be at The Club House for an OC Young Republican event, after that it’s off to dinner and the Opera at the OC Performing Arts Center.

4/18/2004 8:30 PM

Leisa and me went to the party last night and had a blast! It was at the Mission Viejo Country club for the Aliso Viejo Republican Women Federated. Their President, Mary Young, is such an energetic person; she really made sure everyone was having a great time. Yes, Todd was dressed as Elvis and sang several songs while playing his guitar. Bob and Gayle Pecheco did the sweetest Lucy & Desi act. I spoke with Chuck DeVore and his wife Diane. Unfortunately they cannot attend my Party for the President on the 29th because Chuck will be at National Guard duty. I bought several things in the silent auction; an autographed copy of Sean Hannity’s “Deliver Us From Evil,” a flag that was flown over the Capitol in Washington DC, and a luncheon with Supervisor Tom Wilson.

I went to the Angel game on Thursday evening. Angels lostL I had a great time though appearing on the jumbo screen. You see I didn’t realize I was going to the game when I dressed that day to go to deva’s. So I ended up entertaining large crowds at the stadium in my plaid pink short kilt, lacey pink top and lace-up pink high heels. How embarrassing, yet I somehow pulled it off. I guess it was really no surprise when I saw my face up there waving to 30,000 people. I just am so camera shy!

I’m off to another Republican Fundraiser in Mission Viejo. Should be a good time since Assemblyman Todd Spitzer will be dressed as Elvis for the 50’s style party.

What a great day today! Happy Easter!

I'm sitting here at the Diamond Lounge in the Rio in Las Vegas. I think I have a good tan going after relaxing by the pool today. Life is good!

Wow, time is really flying this month! I hate to go so long without making an entry, but I have a crazy schedule. Camp Pendleton was pretty quite because most of the Marines just recently went over to Iraq to relieve the 82nd Airborne. I did find the cutest pink Marine tank top though. My friend left Monday morning for Iraq and won’t be back until August. I don’t know how they do it, I’m just glad they do.

I’m headed to Las Vegas today with Dee Dee, one of deva’s lovely bartenders. I’ll have to put up a picture of her on the website as soon as I get a chance. She just moved back from Missouri, she used to work at deva’s about 3 years ago. We went golfing last week at Aliso Creek off of PCH in Laguna Beach last week. It was freezing in the canyon! We went with my friend Randy; he is actually a pretty good golfer. Dee Dee & me met him about 5 years ago at the “Runnin’ Gunnin” golf tournament that they used to have to honor the last picked football player in the NFL draft. That was a fun tournament! You had the heckler hole where a group of people just yelled at you while you teed off. One hole they actually threw firecrackers on the green. At another hole you where target practice for several kids with water balloons. You can probably see why it’s canceled now. Anyway, after golf last week we went to Las Brisas and enjoyed the ocean out on their patio. We were entertained with locker room stories from Randy; he’s a sports columnist for the OC Register.

Wednesday Dee Dee, JJ, and myself all rented a limo and went shopping for bikinis down in Huntington Beach. Of course I can never find a suit that fits properly. We did find lots of cool stuff at a place called the Catwalk. After shopping we went back to deva’s for a while and then headed off to a car show by the circle in Orange. The Marines had this awesome Hummer; I don’t recall much else about the show. Then it was over to Paul’s cocktail lounge to play pool. Another great day!

Well, I better get packed and get to the airport!

Yesterday was my little brother’s birthday. So of course he received the usual “Happy Birthday Fool!” from his loving sister. I actually went to deva’s yesterday morning and announced to the morning crowd that I had sold the bar. I let their chins drop to the counter and put quite a scare in the morning bartender, Caroline (bless her heart, she just turned 66 two days ago) before I said the whole” April Fool’s” bit. The rest of the day they all pulled the same gag on the other regulars coming into the bar so we all had fun with it.

I am actually going to Sacramento this month for Advocacy on the 26th & 27th. This should be interesting; I’ve never been to the Capitol. Arnold will be at the luncheon on the second day I’m told. Finally, at least I’ll be in the same room with him. I’m so tired of everyone asking if I’ve met Arnold yet! The closest I’ve been to him was at his Car tax rally at the OC Fairgrounds during the campaign. All I could see was a car being smashed and a guy at the podium that I could barely make out. Anyway, I’m excited just to going up there and see how the legislature works.

I’m off to Camp Pendleton today to accompany a friend who just got back from Iraq and is on his way back in a few days. Thank God for Marines like him putting their lives on the line so we can enjoy our freedom!

National “Party for the President” Day is April 29th. I’m in the process of planning one at deva’s. We are going to have some fun that evening, we may end up chasing Democrats out of the bar. We will have campaign materials, bumper stickers, snacks, and sodas out in front of deva’s from 5pm until 8pm that night. Come on in if you’re in the area!

They had a rally today in front of Loretta Sanchez’s District Office to protest the fact that she voted against a Congressional Resolution (HR557) honoring U.S. Troops serving in Iraq. Unfortunately I couldn’t make it this morning. I got up at 7am but wasn’t feeling too well; I was at deva’s pretty late last night. I really wanted to be there to show my support. We need to get rid of this Sanchez woman! Dr. Alexandria Coronado is running against her. Hopefully I can help get out the word to vote for her, she’s a super lady! I don’t understand Sanchez at all. She actually has walked in the Tustin Veteran’s Day parade the last few years. She doesn’t know what she’s doing; a lot of people are upset with her.

People need to laugh more…………….



Subject: A Few Zen Thoughts for Those Who Take Life Too Seriously:



A Few Zen Thoughts For Those Who Take Life Too Seriously:


Save the whales. Collect the whole set.



A day without sunshine is like, night.



On the other hand..... you have different fingers.



I just got lost in thought. It was unfamiliar territory.



42.7 percent of all statistics are made up on the spot. .



I feel like I'm diagonally parked in a parallel universe.

Honk if you love peace and quiet.



Remember, half the people you know are below average.



He who laughs last thinks slowest.



Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.



The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.



I drive way too fast to worry about cholesterol.



Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have.



Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7 of your life.



A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.



Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.



Get a new car for your spouse. It'll be a great trade!



Plan to be spontaneous tomorrow.



Always try to be modest, and be proud of it!



If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.



OK, so what's the speed of dark?



How do you tell when you're out of invisible ink?



If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.



When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.



Hard work pays off in the future. Laziness pays off now.



Everyone has a photographic memory; Some just don't have film.



Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.



What happens if you get scared half to death twice?



I used to have an open mind but my brains kept falling out.



I couldn't repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder.



AND THE ONE I RELATE TO THE MOST THESE DAYS - - -

Inside every older person is a younger person wondering "What the hell happened?!"

I took my acting teacher from Cypress College out to lunch yesterday. It’s nice to catch up on everything. I hadn’t been to the campus for a long time. Mark Majarian is a good guy, a real passionate teacher. We used to fight when I was taking his classes over 10 years ago. I can’t believe it’s been that long! Anyway, I started taking his classes right after my father passed away so I had a ton of issues to deal with. If you can’t afford therapy, join a good acting class! I think Mark helped me quite a bit, of course I didn’t know it at the time. I would storm out of class, or he would throw me out. One time he actually made me come to class for 2 weeks wearing no makeup, perfume, high heels, hairspray, jewelry, etc. It was either that or be thrown out of his class permanently because he said I used all that stuff to mask the real person underneath. Well, I did it. I didn’t like it, but I did it. He was right too. Oh well, that was a long time ago.

I went over to Chat Noir last night to meet one of my liquor salesmen for an Effen Vodka. It’s still my favorite vodka, black cherry with a hint of vanilla-yum. I just love that restaurant; it means “Black Cat” in French. I’m not a big “French” fan, but I really enjoy this place. They have live jazz, it’s really dark with red velvet booths and curtains, and there are candles everywhere. The food is quite tasty as well. Thursday nights are too busy, they actually have a line out the back door and a DJ because it’s so crowded you can’t even walk through the place and you wouldn’t be able to hear any jazz. I don’t like lines; I refuse to stand in line. They were having a private party for St. John last night. They are having a Fall 2004 fashion show today at the Bren Events Center at the University of California, Irvine. I’m staring at my invitation laying here on my desk wishing I had one good St. John’s Knit suit. I’m too tired to drag myself down there today.

Another example of just how small the world really is: as I was sitting at the bar yesterday at Chat Noir, two older gentlemen with heavy Polish accents kept motioning for me to come over to their table. I stood up and said, “ I know you” as I pointed at one of them. They laughed thinking yeah, sure, she must use that line on all the older, rich looking future sugar daddies that she hits on. Anyway, I said, “You’re George.” And I thought he was going to have a heart attack. I then proceeded to tell him his last name, that he drives a green Land Rover, and where he used to live. By now, they are both going into shock. So, I let them down easy. As it turns out that I bought my house from George and his wife 5 ½ years ago. They sold the house to me because they liked me and I promised to not change anything that he had done to the house. George was so cute; he had been saving some bathroom fixture for me at his new house because it matched my house. I also got busted because he had driven by and seen where I had to cut down all his precious bottlebrush and pepper trees that destroyed all the cement with their massive roots. Anyway, he wants to retire to Europe and wants me to look at their house before they put it on the market incase I want to buy it. Funny how things work out. He wants to sell me their house again because he spends all his time on little Home Depot projects and knows I’ll appreciate his work. How sweet.

I’m feeling a little better today. A weekend of movies is just what I needed. The movie Pay It Forward was really good. It’s sort of a chick flick, but it’s well worth watching! I can’t believe I watched Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the first time the other day. I liked it; it seemed so ahead of its time. Last night I watched We Were Soldiers. Not a good movie to watch right before you try to go to sleep. Mel Gibson is such a great actor, but the movie was so sad. Makes you think what is really important in life. Well, that’s it for the movie reviews.

Question: Why do I receive hundreds of e-mails for Viagra? What is wrong with these marketing people exactly? If I don’t respond to the first 500 ads, I’m probably not going to buy from them. I have people telling me not to click on the “unsubscribe,” because then the company will know that they have a good address. If those companies are paying attention to this I have something to say:


I don’t need prescription drugs
From singles networks, I don’t need hugs
I don’t need to refinance my house
No exterminators for a mouse
Omaha Steaks on sale again
A new car, I just can’t win
Printer ink by the ton
Victoria Secrets………well, I like that one

Happy Monday!

We had a busy night on St. Patty’s Day. My friends Allen & Kathy cooked up a bunch of Irish food for deva’s. We’re usually not that busy but I guess people are getting smarter and staying closer to home. Most of the big Irish bars are down along the beach. I’m not complaining, we had a great night!

I’m sick again. I’ve been in bed and I’m going back there after I’m done checking my e-mails. There just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done when you’re trying to do too much. I burn the candle at both ends and it always catches up to me in the way of a sore throat or cold. I’ll rest this weekend. Last Sunday I went with JJ, a deva’s bartender, and some friends down to the beach. It was so nice hanging out by the water listening to live music. The food is really good too at Billy’s down on PCH (Pacific Coast Highway). The band “The Jetson’s” played at deva’s a few times before, they are pretty good. It’s just such a small world. We also went over to Margaritaville and took over the dance floor for a while. That’s how a weekend day should always be.

Back to watching boring TV. If I see one more commercial for dental assistant school or for lawyers promising you millions of dollars, I’ll scream!

I attended a luncheon today for the Women’s Auxiliary of the Arthritis Foundation in Fountain Valley. One of our Federated ladies, Jeanne Graves is the President of the group and I went as her guest. I can’t believe how many truly wonderful people I keep meeting. These ladies are a terrific group and I believe the only “Women’s” Auxiliary for the Arthritis Foundation around. They are currently raising money to send children that suffer from arthritis to an outdoor camp called Camp Esperanza (Spanish for “hope”) up in Big Bear. Hopefully I can help somewhat, it’s difficult with my schedule. Anyway, I had a lovely time chatting with everyone today. It’s so fun to see the reactions from different people when they find out that I ran for governor. Most are at the least curious; some just think it’s wonderful. Of course there are the ones that roll their eyes, but oh well, maybe one day they won’t think it so funny when I actually accomplish the task of winning a race. I’m thinking politics, but if it comes down to it I may need to run a marathon (okay, walk, crawl, bicycle…).

The mixer was a huge event last night with at least a hundred tables. I had no idea how many people were going to be there. I saw several women all in red with flags at their table and I had to go see who they were. Of course they were Federated Women from Fullerton with a voter registration table. There were mostly financial planning people there. A good place for them would be right next to the Cadillac dealership people. They tried to talk me into buying a Caddy; they do have a nice convertible now. (And it’s really cheap-haha.) Anyway, I did find out that Casino Barona finally obtained their liquor license as of yesterday. I can’t believe they didn’t have one until now. Anyway, it was a good time.

Well, off to work!

This week is just flying by! I can’t seem to get any work done with the weather still so nice. I just got in the pool today-yeah! The water is only 78 degrees, but it’s got to be close to 90 degrees outside. I changed the filter and solar to stay on longer this week to heat up the pool. Can you tell I really like the sun?
Yesterday a bird landed next to me on the arm of my chair. I called a neighbor over because I thought maybe he belonged to someone. The poor thing, he just kept looking at me like he needed help. Sure enough my neighbor (and bird enthusiast) informed me it was a wild bird and he was injured. I didn’t want him to be my cat’s next meal so I shooed him into the corner behind some plants until he rested up enough to fly off. Poor little bird, hope he made it to safety.

Almost finished with the tax stuff. My appointment is on the 14th; I always seem to wait till the last possible minute. Well, not much new or exciting to report for this week. I am going to a huge Chamber Mixer tonight at Angel Stadium. It will be weird being there without a baseball game going on.

No wonder it seemed so nice yesterday, it was 93 degrees! I would love it to be like that all year around. My mother just moved from Florida to Tennessee because it was too hot. I can’t wait for “hot flashes’. I originally wanted to move to Florida and attend Daytona Beach Community College. Things don’t always go as planned, but I knew I’d end up somewhere warm.

Well, it’s “Happy Monday” again, so off to work!

What a gorgeous day today! It’s currently after 5pm and the temperature is still in the 80’s! It’s a welcome change from the cold, rainy weather we’ve had lately. I could’ve lain in the sun all day. Unfortunately, the search continues for the bottom of my desk! My taxes are due on the 15th of this month so I guess I better get started. Hey, I have a few more days left. Why do today what you can turn into a stressful emergency tomorrow? Really, I would’ve liked to complete this annoying tax thing earlier this year but I’ve been so busy. Then again, nothing makes me work harder than an upcoming deadline.

I’ve got to go back outside and enjoy this weather while I can. I can smell the neighbors BBQ, hear the other neighbors watering their yard, and I’m sure it won’t be long before the other neighbors start playing Mariachi music. Ahh, the sounds of summer. (We won’t discuss the noises coming from across the street. Let’s just say the 20 people living there should really return the 5 Big Lots shopping carts parked in front of their house!)

I think that overall the Election went well. At least the people were smart enough to see through Prop 56. The electronic voting machines had fewer problems than I thought they would. Some people pushed “Cast Ballot” instead of “Enter” after the first question and that meant they were done after that point. Oh, and the Democrats are stuck with John Kerry-hehehe! I’m sure they are thrilled to have a candidate they know little about except that he is as far left as Boxer.

The meeting yesterday went well. Both speakers were very informative. Dr. Barbara Stone was hilarious! I really enjoy listening to her; the students are lucky to have her at Cal State Fullerton.

I am sad that Rosario Marin didn’t win. She gave it a good try and I think she did an excellent job for her first run for office. Now it’s time to get behind Bill Jones. It’s going to be a battle to beat Boxer.

I had such a great time last night at the Election Party for the Republican Party of Orange County. I met so many wonderful people there. I spoke with Congressman Ed Royce to start with. He actually asked me if I was November on the Recall calendar. I made sure to point out that I am 2004 November, not last year’s November! I don’t need to be confused with Mary again. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom Fuentes, Chairman of the Republican Party of Orange County. I spoke briefly with a very energetic Chuck DeVore and his lovely wife, Diane. There’s nothing like winning! Chuck’s energy was amazing; he will defiantly be going places! He will be representing the 70th District in the State Assembly. I’m so happy for Dr. Alexandria Coronado; she was winning the 47th District to challenge Loretta Sanchez. I should’ve mentioned her earlier; I can’t believe I left her out. I heard her speak at a luncheon and had the honor of meeting her last year. I hope she can get the word out to defeat Sanchez!

I think the biggest surprise of the night was when I just happened to be standing directly in front of the podium and Pete Wilson and his wife walked up on stage. He introduced Bill Jones and his family. I liked what Bill Jones had to say. Let’s hope California does too!

I almost forgot.......... Assemblyman Todd Spitzer was the charming host of the party. I didn’t manage to talk to him, as he was extremely busy. He’s defiantly the hottest looking Assemblyman! He, of course, has a very pretty wife.

Patricia Burnes, the President of OCFRW was there along with several of us Federated Women. I’m attending the meeting and luncheon tomorrow for the OCFRW, where the Honorable Bill Campbell, Orange County Board of Supervisors, Third District, will be a guest speaker. Dr. Barbara Stone will be the keynote speaker. She is great! If you ever get a chance to hear her speak-do it! I just love what she has to say; she is so funny as well. She is a Professor of Political Science and Member of the Executive Committee of the State Republican Party. Should be interesting!

I’m off to deva’s to get some work done.

Yeah! 57 & 58 passed!

Okay, today is the big day! I’ve been so busy this weekend with paperwork and payroll. Make sure you all get out there and vote! No, No, Yes, Yes! And vote for Rosario Marin for Senate! (She’s the one who signed your money-take a look.)

I can’t believe I actually watched my friend Michael Washington marry the love of his life, Valerie. I watched the ceremony “live” on the Internet on Saturday! The Internet is a wonderful thing. (I’ll have to thank Al Gore when I see him.)

Well, I’m off to the polls!

Last night I went with deva's bartenders Amy and JJ down to San Diego for Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras in the Gaslamp district was a good time! I’ll try to upload a picture of us at deva’s before we took the train down. They do not allow cameras at the event so I left mine at the bar. The most fun we had was being driven around by muscular men on bicycles that pull little carts. I distinctly remember JJ yelling “Mush” most of the way! It was so funny!



The latest on the Rosario Marin campaign is that she’s still going strong and gaining ground! Apparently the Bill Jones campaign is broke and his fundraiser with Arnold only raised $200,000, not the $1million he was hoping for. Too bad for him. I keep hearing Rosario’s ads on KFI, funny; I don’t recall anything from the Bill Jones campaign? That alone should tell people that Bill Jones doesn’t have a chance against Boxer and her millions. What is he thinking? The candidates running for Assembly in the 70th district have raised more money than Bill Jones! Chuck DeVore and Cristi Cristich are in a heated race for the 70th Assembly District, which covers a large Republican area from Tustin to Laguna Beach. I had the opportunity to hear them each speak along with the other candidates in the race at a luncheon at the end of last year. I have to say, and I think I mentioned this earlier, that Chuck Devore is an extremely impressive speaker. I like the fact that Cristi Cristich is a successful businesswoman. She also sent me a very complimentary note after we talked; I liked the personal attention. The one thing I think she will have trouble with is the fact she supported Bill Clinton. Not financially, but it doesn’t change the fact she did support him. Also, the fact that she had to send out an apology for having implied in a mailer that Rep. Chris Cox, R-Newport Beach supported her probably won’t help much either. Chuck on the other hand, is an “Absolute Republican.” I don’t know if that’s the best description, but it’s what comes to my mind. They both are strong individuals that oppose higher taxes and support business. To find out more on Chuck Devore you can go to www.ChuckDevore.com .

I live in the 69th Assembly District so I am voting for Otto Bade. He’s a business owner, former Police Officer, Vietnam Veteran, and has the support of many prominent Republicans. From Congressman Ed Royce, Senator Dick Ackerman, to Assemblyman Todd Spitzer, and the Orange County Lincoln Club. Too many to list, but he has great support. Most importantly he is against higher taxes and wants to protect Proposition 13! It’s going to be a tough battle in a district that’s something like 75% Latino, and mostly Democratic. Otto Bade, like Rosario Marin immigrated here at a young age, he came from Guatemala. I respect people that work hard and do well for themselves. Having to learn another language on top of that is even more impressive. This country is full of citizens who have so many opportunities to make something of themselves and they are Lazy! Instead of taking advantage of the countless opportunities surrounding them, they chose to live off of the rest of us hard working taxpayers. I have little sympathy for people who refuse to educate themselves and work hard, and then complain about their situation. Sure, sometimes people do need help, and we should try to help each other. You can’t help those who refuse to help themselves. My message to those people:
If you need a helping hand, look on the end of your arm!
I may sound a bit angry. It’s just that when I came to California I had no money. I worked my butt off! I actually had 5 jobs at one time because I wanted to do whatever it took to better myself. It really offends me when people make comments that I only got ahead because some “Sugar Daddy” must have helped me. I’ll stop here but I’ll write more on this subject later.

March 2nd is really closing in fast! I’m supporting Brett Franklin for County Supervisor. I haven’t seen the 1st District candidate forum with the candidates, but the OC Register today states that Adelphia will reply it on public access channel at 6:30pm tonight and on Sunday at 1pm.

Well, I’ve gone on and on today so I better get back to the never-ending paperwork!

2/21/2004 3:22 PM

The Election is so close now! Rosario has moved up in the polls quite a bit. Last I read Bill Jones was at 24%, while Rosario was at 12%, with a large number of people still undecided. There are a lot of people who don’t have a clue and don’t care. Hopefully they won’t go with the familiar name of Bill Jones. Jones only raised a little over $300,000, while Rosario has reached $1 million! Get out the word to vote for Rosario Marin on March 2nd! She is the only candidate that can beat Boxer!!

As for the propositions:

Easy!


55 NO!
56 NO! NO! and NO WAY! (Lowers the voting requirement to 55% from 2/3rds!)
57 YES! (This better pass or we’ll be hit with higher taxes!)
58 YES!

2/20/04

I currently have no Internet connection. Lovely. Happy Friday!

Anyway, I wanted to post an e-mail I received the other day from Captain Rice. He says it well……..

All,

I have officially landed in Kuwait, never to return to that accursed country called Iraq. Though I would never call it much of a country. M any a time I looked out across the great expanse of nothing and thought to myself or said out loud to no one in particular, "They can Keep it." I am in Kuwait for the next 30 plus days as the vanguard element for the 82D ABN in planning for their re-deployment outta here...

I trust all of you are well and have endured the long hard winter. We are doing fine and keeping it going to the final days here. I want to thank you all again for all of your support, e-mails, packages, and prayers, it meant so much more than any of you will ever know.

I will leave you with my final thoughts as I flew over the vast Iraqi desert, heading south and the first steps toward 'home'...As I looked out of the window, past the door gunner, starring down at the primitive mud huts and seeing the shepards tending to their flocks. I saw so many children and even adults waving and jumping with joy as we flew over. I also thought that there are others waiting in the midsts with RPGs waiting to shoot us down. I mulled over, we have handed them one of the most precious of all gifts, we have given them freedom. Like the two Iraqis in my thoughts so it is in this country some accept the newfound freedom joyfully, others shun it, possibly out of fear of what they do not understand or have never known. I thought, so we give them their freedom, the rest is up to them, whether they use it to build a new world, or throw it away and remain the savage people I had seen so many times...So many things left for time to tell. Time is the great equalizer, we will see if they will truly live it well....


Safe Journeys,
Bart

Well, mother, grandparents and baby are all doing just fine. Courtney came home from the hospital on Friday. There’s a picture of the baby under “messages” on deva’s website.

Friday night I went with some friends to the Grand Opening of “Club Vegas” in Costa Mesa. They handed out 1,000 VIP passes for the 7pm opening. Of course they had us all lined up around the building so they could take pictures and film the crowd for obvious reasons. Luckily we were in line with the wife of a manager of the club who got us in a lot faster. I just hate to wait in a line! The place is nice inside, I think they spent somewhere around a million dollars on the place. That would explain the $8.00 Red Bull I got to go with the $9.00 Stoli. That’s a bargain though compared to the $500 or $1,000 booths you can rent for the evening around the dance floor. They do have cocktail waitress service up there though, which is where I preferred to sit. Anyway, it was a fun place to go dancing.

We registered 21 Republicans yesterday in front of Target in Irvine. That brings the tally to 50 Republicans registered in a week! I did convert one Democrat to re-register Republican on Friday at deva’s. He even said he would vote for Rosario Marin-yeah!

I’ve got to get to Trader Joes and do the shopping in time so I can watch the All- Star NBA game tonight. Maybe it will be interesting.

Finally! Baby Shamus (I was right the first time) was born yesterday a little before 6pm. They figured out why he didn’t want to come out…………..he couldn’t. Shamus weighs 9lbs, 7oz, and is 22 inches long. What a big baby! Courtney is just a petite girl and they had to perform a Section on her. Good news is the baby is perfect!

Back to the hospital………………

So I went to the hospital last night around 9pm and the baby was a no-show. I spent the night laying on a fold out chair covered by hospital blankets as the air-conditioning blew right down on me. I’m trying to avoid getting sick again, but it’s difficult when you don’t sleep all night and the room is at 60 degrees! Courtney is holding up great considering the poor girl has been throwing up and having contractions for the last 16 hours! I came home to shower and try to rest; like I can rest at a time like this. I need to get ready and head back down to the hospital before Shaymus (I think I spelled his name wrong earlier) decides to grace us with his presence! That boy just does not want to come out yet.

Wow, have I been busy lately! I’ll try to keep this blog current from now on. My good friend and “sister” is ready to give birth any day now. Actually more like any minute, as she was due Jan. 30th. Courtney is just ready to burst! The baby’s name is Shamus, how Irish is that? Anyway I’m supposed to be there to make her laugh in the delivery room. I’ve been through this once before with my friend Whittney about 7 years ago. She recorded the birth and I kept saying, “I’m not ready yet!” after the doctor said, “Next push and you’re having a baby.” I was serious! Anyway, hopefully I can be there to make Courtney smile!

I went to a Lincoln Day luncheon last Thursday. Supervisor Chris Norby (Fourth District, OC Board of Supervisors) gave a speech on Lincoln and we all had to stand and recite the Gettysburg Address. I never really paid attention to the words before. Everyone should re-read it and really think about what it says.

The candidates for Senate running against Barbara Boxer were there, or a representative on their behave. Toni Casey was quit an impressive speaker, I like her. I don’t think she could beat Boxer though. Rosario Marin wasn’t there because she was giving a press conference at the Nixon Library. I couldn’t be in two places at once so I sadly missed her speech. You can read about it though on her website:

RosarioforSenate.com

She is the only candidate that can pull this off and oust Boxer!

I have to get going, I need to drop off Voter Registration cards to the Registrar’s Office! We registered 27 Republicans this weekend!

I’ve so got to get to work……….more later!

I know it’s been too long! Sometimes “life happens” and you just can’t do everything. I took off at the last minute to Las Vegas for the Super bowl! It was a blast! If you can’t have a great time in Vegas……………….stay home! Several friends and patrons were there so that made the trip even more entertaining. Nothing like watching the Super Bowl on a giant screen in the Cirque de Soleil venue at Treasure Island. They really take care of you during the game. Waitress service, appetizers, and big comfortable seats. Okay, I’m not that into football, but the commercials are always fun. The half-time show was a bit of a shock; I wasn’t sure what I was looking at when Justin pulled off part of Janet’s top. Things look blurry on a movie-sized screen.

Anyway, off to work………running late!

I just finished addressing all of the W-2’s and 1099’s to go out in the mail tomorrow. The fun never ends! I need to start figuring out what I’m going to do for our Super Bowl party this year. We will be having our 5th Annual Chili-Cook-Off during the game. It’s seems so weird to have Super Bowl Sunday in February.

I just finished another article about The Republican’s attempt to oust Boxer. I keep reading how Bill Jones is in the lead, especially after Arnold’s endorsement. At least one article from Saturday talked about how Jones didn’t have a chance and how Rosario Marin was our best bet. Well, one article is a start.

I’m trying to sell tickets to the Laker game on Wednesday night. They are the seats I had last time on the floor behind the Lakers bench. I really would love to go again but I’m too busyL I bought tickets for the Harlem Globetrotters as well, but that’s not until February 21st at The Pond. That should be a lot of fun; we’ll be in the front row. I used to watch them on TV with my father and brother all the time as a kid. I have no idea who any of the new players are. I remember Curly and Meadowlark Lemon the most.

Well, back to paperwork………………………..

I’ve been so busy with fun tax forms lately. DE 6, DE 7, 941, 940……………….you get the idea.
Last night was another fun filled evening at deva’s with karaoke and dancing. I’m feeling much better now, finally!

I dragged my best friend Leisa to the Chamber mixer on Thursday night at the OC Register. We took a tour of the building and it was quite interesting. I never realized how much work goes into the newspaper every day. It’s really amazing to get a look at tall the different departments, editors, graphic artists, writers, researchers, the many people running the presses (at 35 miles an hour by the way). Anyway, if you get a chance it’s a tour worth your while. I did run into two of the reporters that did stories on me during the election. George Stewart I knew already because he has been in deva’s several times for interviews. He writes a column as well for the Tustin News that’s pretty entertaining. The other reporter I spoke with on the phone only so it was nice to put a face with a name. Tustin’s Chamber mixers are becoming a fun event to attend-finally!

A few days ago I had the sudden craving for orange slices. While refreshing, sweet, and full of vitamin C, I usually don’t think about eating them. It’s obvious to me today why the sudden urge. In 1991, on January 19th, my father passed away from cancer. I was there, holding him as he let that last breath escape, never to inhale again. My father held on through the night of the 18th, I remember it like it was yesterday. He kept asking me what time it was, trying to look up at the clock. He clung to life a bit longer as to not die on the same date as his father did of cancer, for his mother’s sake. My grandmother never did recover from losing her husband and son. She lived several more years and fought off the depression repeatedly. My grandmother died on August 3, her birthday, of cancer.

You’re probably wondering why the orange slices………... My father was Coach Roger Renz, basketball coach at Findlay High School in Ohio. I remember my mother cutting up a bag full of oranges before every game for my father to take to the gymnasium for his players. Every half time the players went to the locker room for orange slices and Juicy Fruit gum. Sometimes for a reaming from my father if they weren’t playing up to their potential. I know it may sound a bit strange, but sometimes it’s the littlest things that remind you of someone. I certainly remember riffling through my father’s sports coat pockets searching for the Juicy Fruit. I can see that big Tupperware container sitting on top of his clipboard, where he drew the plays for the game, tucked under his arm as we made our way to the game. My father passed away during one of his team’s basketball games. They announced it after the game and the gymnasium, I was told, was full of silence and tears. He coached right through chemotherapy, right up until he went back into the hospital for the last time. The funeral was held in the gymnasium to accomadate the hundreds of people attending. There was a basketball on top of the casket in the middle of all the flowers. The casket was on the court, right under the basket, which seemed very fitting.

I have his leather jacket that I bought him for Christmas one year hanging in my closet. I took it from the hospital after he passed away (after a struggle from a horrible step mother, I don’t want to think of her today.) There’s still a piece of Juicy Fruit gum in the pocket. I miss my father very much; he was a great man who did everything in his power to help his players, students, family, and friends. I hope I can live up to what he accomplished. Most people never even knew how much he helped others until he passed away and the local radio station had an hour show where people called in to talk about him. Now that’s a true sign of a special human being. He was only 49 years old, never smoked, rarely touched any alcohol, exercised daily, ate healthy (was a health teacher), and our family grew our own vegetables. Sometimes it just doesn’t matter how healthy you try to be.

I’m going to go cut up an orange for breakfast.

Is anyone paying attention to the propositions that will be on the March ballot? Prop 57 needs to be passed so that we will not incur more tax increases. The proposal calls for a $15 billion bond so that the state can refinance the accumulated debt. Apparently, so far, the majority seems to be against it in the polls I have read about. Wake up people! It’s far better than an increase in taxes! Of course the first people everyone wants to tax is the rich, the smokers, and the drinkers. Any further taxes on these areas will send even more businesses packaging out of California. I know my small business can’t afford more taxes. It really hits hard when you’re a small business that sells alcohol. Most of my customers that drink also smoke. It’s bad all the way around. Hopefully Arnold can convince the people that this is a good idea. And as for the $6 billion short fall anticipated by Legislative Analyst Elizabeth Hill next year………………hello! If the business climate improves in California, there will be more tax revenue coming in. It only makes sense to vote yes on Prop 57.

Well, now that I have that off my chest……………….I need to go serve up some cocktails and sing karaoke! Happy Friday!

The sun just does wonders for me. I actually spent some much needed time outside yesterday. I feel much better now, but still not completely over this hell-flu!

I went to a meeting yesterday at American Express Financial Advisors Inc for a friend who is just getting started in a new career. I do miss being in that financial environment. It’s been a long time since I sat in an office as a registered rep. My license expired a while back; I couldn’t find anywhere to “hang” it to keep it active. I sure wouldn’t want to take the Series #7 exam again! It’s a difficult test, mostly about options. Six hours of 250 questions out of a possible 10,000. At least it was 10 years ago when I took it. I can’t believe it’s been 10 years! I’m getting old fast!

I can’t believe Arnold is endorsing Bill Jones for the Senate race to oust Boxer! I still am convinced Rosario Marin is the best candidate. The endorsement today of all five Republican women in the California State Legislature was a good sign. The primary is coming up quickly; hopefully I can help spread the word about Rosario. I have heard several Democrats say that are going to vote for her, I hope that is the case come March!

I woke up at 5am today. I’ve been at my desk for almost 10 hours now! The bottom of my desk is still nowhere to be found! I know the payroll tax booklet is around here somewhere, it’s due on the 15th. Good thing I never procrastinate!

Okay, I’ve been sick now for 5 weeks. Please! I felt a little better yesterday; I’m just tired today. Everyone I’ve talked to that has this flu- thing said they were sick about 6 weeks. Lovely.

My steady diet of potato chips, french fries, popcorn, pizza, Top Ramen noodles, and raw potatoes with salt (yummy,) is starting to have an affect. I can’t wait to be well again so I can go back to Sugar Free Red Bull, yogurt, and romaine salads to shed these extra pounds! What is it about being sick that makes you crave carbs? I guess it’s that whole “comfort food” thing. I just wish comfort food didn’t make you fat! Seriously, I just had sour cream potato chips while waiting for my fries in the oven to get crispy! What a well-rounded dinner! It’s okay, I have taken tons of Vitamin C and drank gallons of juice, and so I’m good. I’m eating the healthy things as well. Rice crispy treats, ice cream with hot fudge, See’s candy, and broccoli. I’m such the health nut.

After quite a bit of feedback about the article yesterday, I guess I may have been too hard on myself. This never-ending flu must be clouding my vision a bit. Maybe the article and picture weren’t that bad. I was trying too hard to sound like a politician, when all the while people seem to like the straightforward, simple approach. Lesson learned. I just need to be myself, like always. I must have read too many articles and interviews with politicians and just assumed I needed to sound like them. Anyway, I’m just happy to have a voice and know people actually read what I had to say. I received several kind e-mails about the article. I even received one from a terrific guy involved with the Chuck Devore campaign (70th Assembly). While I originally volunteered for his campaign, I felt I had a better understanding of Rosario Marin’s efforts. I learned rather quickly that you need to volunteer for someone you feel you know on a certain level, and more importantly, someone you truly believe in. If you don’t have that, there’s no passion involved. I’m confident that the “DeVore in ’04” campaign will be strong. I only listened to Chuck speak once, so I didn’t really get to know what he’s about. I was impressed with his speaking ability; he commands such presence in a room.

Arnold’s budget plan is due to come out today. I’m curious as to what it’s going to entail.

Anyway, I need to get to deva’s. I haven’t been there in a week!

Well, it?s on page 7 today in the OC Register. I wish the reporter, Ricky Young, were calling about my subscription yesterday. The photo wasn?t very flattering to start with. The reporter twisted some of my answers to make me sound, well, stupid. Should?ve seen it coming by now, huh? The previous articles in the Register were a better measure of my speaking ability than was this horrible Q&A! Guess I was out of practice yesterday in my flu-ridden state. Usually I can steer my answers into intelligent quotes for the reporter to write. Oh well. At least they?re still asking questions and I can voice my opinion to Orange County; I should be grateful for that. Here?s the article if you are signed up with the Register:

http://www2.ocregister.com/ocrweb/ocr/article.do?id=75173§ion=REGION_STATE&subsection=REGION_STATE&year=2004&month=1&day=8


I did attend our Neighborhood Association meeting last night. City Council woman, Claudia Alvarez was there to give the ?State of the City? report as of last July. She did a good job dealing with all the complaints and problems from our section of the city. Then we had to go over the Center Line project again and again for those who missed the last meeting. What a nightmare this Center Line project has been. It?s basically a light rail train that goes nowhere and costs millions of dollars. I know the premise is that it is the foundation that we will build on in the future. Hopefully that is what will happen if this project gets approved.

Still trying to shake this flu. I should’ve bought the entire Theraflu Company to save money this winter!

The OC Register called me today. I actually answered because I thought they calling regarding my subscription. Funny. The reporter asked me how I thought Arnold was doing so far. I watched his State of the State yesterday, and I thought he did a good job on the speech. He was positive about California and was standing by his word about not increasing taxes. Anyway, you can read the Q & A in the Register in the next few days. What a pleasant surprise; I still get to voice my opinion. That was the first interview of the New Year. I’m sure there will be the “Where are they now?” interviews before too long. I guess I better “get” somewhere! If I could just get over this flu I could at least “get out of bed!”

I haven't dropped off the face of the planet; I'm still sick! This is the worst cold, flu, or whatever it is! You start to feel better, and then it hits you again!

I'm back to bed with my Theraflu!

Happy New Year!

I have nominated deva's as a meet-up place for all you fellow Republicans! Check it out:



2004-Year of the Deva!

It’s almost 2004! So much work to do! I bartended the last couple of days so I’m even further behind. Tomorrow is payroll and the big New Year’s Eve Party at deva’s. We are having chicken, spinach dip, and appetizers. I think we serve more food then most restaurants during the holidays. I wish deva’s had a kitchen! I made gallons of “Mad Cow Stew” (vegetable & Top Sirloin) for Sunday football two days ago. The patrons ate every drop and asked for more. I don’t think many people are actually worried about getting Mad Cow disease. The line is still around the corner at Inn & Out, the hamburger joint, down the street. We had steaks on Christmas Day. Its just one cow, linked to Canada, come on. I’d probably die from chocking on a piece of steak before I’d actually die from Mad Cow Disease. A person actually wrote in to the OC Register today proclaiming they weren’t going to eat beef anymore because of all the pictures on TV of cute little cow faces being slaughtered. Okay. That guy probably believed the commercials of the “Happy Cow” in California as well. Does he think that the cheese slices on his turkey or chicken sandwich today came from “Happy Cows” roaming free in the sunshine over the vast green, daisy covered, hillsides? What about the poor little cute chicken or turkey faces that were slaughtered for his non-cow meal? Give me a break. I guess we all should become vegans, wear man-made material shoes, and hug a tree.

Friday was such a lovely day at work. By the time I got there the ice machine stopped running, the cash register died, and several light s had burned out. It wasn’t even a Monday! Deva’s is such an electrical nightmare. The previous owner was an electrical contractor, and still is! Scary! We have outlets in the strangest places. The one above the TV’s is fell out of the ceiling when I first took over. I really would like to remodel the place. Only problem is all the laws, regulations, ordinances, commissions, departments, landlord, etc………. maybe someday. ( There are so many idiotic regulations that prevent imprvement.)

I’ve got to get all these bills in the mail and start searching for the bottom of my desk again before next year starts!

Merry Christmas All!

I went to the doctor yesterday. Armed with Bill O’Reilly’s “Who’s Looking Out for You?” “The Week” magazine, and a list of “The Best Notable Quotables of 2003,” I planned on the long two hour wait. I didn’t even get through a paragraph when they called me in. I have gained back 7 pounds from my lowest weight during the campaign. Lovely. My blood pressure was 110 over 80; okay I guess. I also had a slight fever, no big deal. Dr Chang looked down my throat, listened to my heart, and asked me what was wrong. I told him I thought I had strep throat and needed antibiotics. So I got the prescription for the Z-pack that I wanted. I paid cash and that really throws people off! If you want to see confused people, pay cash for a doctor’s visit and then don’t use your insurance when you go to fill your prescription either. Think about it. They told me there would be a two-hour wait, so I know they were extremely busy yesterday morning. I paid $50.00 cash for the visit with three Twenties. They barely had $10.00 cash in the drawer to give me change! So then I went to Sav-On to fill the prescription. It was a big deal because I wasn’t in their computer and I wasn’t using insurance. When I went to pick up the prescription they wanted my insurance again. I told them my insurance is so screwed up that I’d rather pay cash. They still insisted I use my insurance because the antibiotics where going to cost $57.99. I still paid cash. What’s the big deal? If I can’t afford A little over a hundred dollars when I get sick, which is usually twice a year, then there’s a problem. I choose to use my insurance incase of a major illness or accident. If everyone did that prices and doctor care would be so much cheaper. Just my opinion.

I better go rest again. I refuse to watch soap operas, those Jerry Springer type shows, Divorce Court, and basically most of daytime TV. Have you ever seen the ads they run during the daytime TV? That should tell you right there who is watching these shows. All the ads are aimed at the unemployed, weight-challenged, and people who may need an Attorney for a worker’s comp claim. Give me a break! If you see these commercials, turn the channel, you are watching “loser” TV. Come on, they assume you are stupid, fat, and unemployed. I have all the movie channels and there still isn’t anything worth watching. I can’t read because my neck is killing me and I start getting a headache. So I’m stuck with TV after the Rush Limbaugh show. Hey, he’s funny, I like his show.

Here’s an interesting e-mail holiday greeting I received, it pretty much sums up all the stupidity this society is swimming in:


Have a safe insane... ;)

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes
for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress,
non-addictive, gender neutral celebration of the winter solstice
holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious
persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with
respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of
others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions
at all...and a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically
uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted
calendar year 2004, but not without due respect for the calendars of
choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make
America great (not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any
other country or is the only "America" in the Western hemisphere), and
without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability,
religious fait!
h, or sexual orientation of the wishee.

This wish is limited to the customary and usual good tidings for a
period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday
greeting, whichever comes first. "Holiday" is not intended to, nor shall
it be considered, limited to the usual Judeo-Christian celebrations or
observances, or to such activities of any organized or ad hoc religious
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Back to laying in bed watching countless stupid movies that I’ve never heard of.

We just get all the excitement in California! A 6.5 earthquake yesterday in the center of the state. I didn’t feel the quake because I was driving in my car at the time. It’s weird how you don’t feel them when you’re driving unless they are right under you. I certainly feel for those people going through this right before Christmas, how terrible.

Well, I’m re-sick. I don’t care if it’s not a word, I just made it up. I had the flu, now I have strep throat I think. I tried to get an appointment at the doctors—yeah right! They told me there are no appointments available and if I want to walk-in, I will have wait at least two hours. Wonderful. I only spent half a day shopping for Christmas this year and it looks like that was all the time I had. I’m basically just angry about being sick now; I don’t have time for this! I still have a New Year’s Eve party to plan! Oh, and don’t even mention all the paperwork, the year-end stuff, payroll, and can I just scream? No, I can’t because I have no voice! I can barely talk, so every time I call someone they think it’s a prank call and hang up. Terrific. I really sound like I’m in the Christmas spirit, don’t I? Well, our party was Friday and I was in the “spirits” then anyway.

We are open on Christmas of course. deva’s never closes; open 365 days a year! JJ will be coming in at 6pm for the night crowd.

I guess I better go wait in line at the doctors with a few good books so I can get antibiotics. It will be so much fun sitting there in a room full of sick people, coughing and sneezing all over the place for two hours! Maybe I’ll get really lucky and catch the flu again. This is so ridiculous to have to go through this procedure. Now I understand why so many people buy their antibiotics down in Mexico. I have to go pay the doctor to look down my throat and tell me if they a culture it will take several days to get the results and so he will just prescribe me a Z-pack and I’ll go wait in line at a pharmacy with more sick people in the back of a Sav-On Drug Store for another hour, only to pay a fortune for the medication I should just be able to go pick up somewhere! I know, I know, we are not smart enough not to abuse antibiotics; we must be protected from our own ignorance. Can you tell I don’t like going to the doctor? I only go if I need antibiotics, something is broke, or I think I’m going to die. Okay, I’m really going on about this aren’t I? This is where I procrastinate. Okay, I’m going……..