Quotes

Motivation is a fire from within. If someone else tries to light that fire under you, chances are it will burn very briefly. - Stephen R. Covey

I am patient with stupidity but not with those who are proud of it. - Edith Sitwell

Even death is not to be feared by one who has lived wisely. - Buddha

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. - Unknown

Holiday Web Gems

I would like to wish a Merry Christmas to all my readers. I hope everyone is having a safe and warm holiday. You all have a special place in my heart and I appreciate your continued visits to my blog. I try to entertain you in a variety of ways by writing short stories, passing along news and (my personal favorite blog posts) Web Gems. I hope you've enjoyed my writing throughout the past year. Please feel free to leave me a comment or send me an email to let me know your thoughts, ideas for stories, and/or websites you want me to check out. (You can even leave a complaint, if you feel the need to do so, but I won’t guarantee that I will listen to it.) ;) Today’s blog are more Web Gems, so gather the kids around the computer for this first link.

How about we start with something cute? Here is a video of a precious puppy trying to whistle. http://video.yahoo.com/watch/6544400/16989568 I think this dog may have a shot at Hollywood. What do you think?

This next website is aimed at some holiday humor. During this time of year beautiful Christmas lights adorn the roofs, trees and front yards of homes and businesses. My family likes to load up in the car and drive around to look at the lighted displays in our area. While most holiday displays are charmingly entertaining, there are those few exhibits that leave you pondering the question ”Why did they even bother?”. Here is a website that showcases these less than enjoyable front yards: http://www.uglychristmaslights.com/ . This website also accepts pictures, so this year as you go around looking at the splendor of glowing colors and yard ornaments, take your camera. Snap some shots of those pitiful displays and give them their 15 minutes of fame by posting them to the Ugly Christmas Lights website.

Here is a warning to pass along to your loved ones. Throughout the year, scammers are hard at work coming up with new ideas to take money and property from innocent people.During the holidays their efforts are even more diligent. Sadly the elderly are scammer’s favorite target and this is another scam aimed at them: http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Banking/FinancialPrivacy/beware-fake-grandkids-calling-for-cash.aspx . (I hope there’s a special place in hell for these dirt bag scammers.) I’ve always said that some people work harder just to get out of having to work at all. Imagine how productive these creative people would be if they actually went out and got a job and made money the honest way.

As we all know, this year was a bad year for the economy and I would like to end this blog with a request. I know we all have had to tighten our belts just to make ends meet, but I want to encourage you to make at least one small donation to a charity this Christmas. This year many charities have suffered a sharp drop in donations. If at all possible please make a small donation, any donation, that you can spare. It could even be a non monetary donation like giving blood, taking a box of clothes to the Salvation Army or just volunteering your time. Another idea is when someone asks you what you would like for Christmas; tell them to make a donation in your name to your/their favorite charity. One that we try to help out each year is Toys for Tots, because children should always have something to look forward to on Christmas morning. *<:)

Web Gems

I love to find fun websites on the internet. Here are two sites I found this week. This first one is hilarious and someone could spend hours just reading through the funny, interesting, weird, disgusting, and sometimes “down right wtf were they thinking” text. This website is Txts Frm Lst Nght (Text From Last Night). Now I know we all have sent a text to someone that once we hit the “send” button we wished there was a “retrieve” button. This website showcases text messages sent that I am sure the sender wished they would not have sent. Lucky for us, the gracious recipient of the text message thought that the world would be a better place if they shared it with everyone. Not only does it exhibit the uncomfortable display of bad spelling, compromising situations and/or embarrassing circumstances, but you the reader also get a chance to reply and grade the text message. Talk about adding insult to injury, but it’s all in fun and (I hope) no one gets hurt. If you feel venturous here is the link: http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/ . If you feel really venturous…add some of your friend’s text messages for everyone to see.

This next website is a helpful one for those cooking this holiday. I love to cook and one of my favorite things to do is peruse recipes. So for all of you who are the cooks of your family get together, here is a helpful website for you! http://www.allrecipes.com/ There are many, many recipes on this website. Each recipe has a great picture of the finished product, a star rating, personal comments from people that have tried the recipe and a wine suggestion. It also has a printable shopping list which is a great feature. I found it to be a very helpful website and I’m sure you will too!

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. Also…if anyone has a suggestion they would like for me to check out on the internet or a short story idea for me, please feel free to contribute. I am open to any comments or suggestions. Have a great one!!! }i{

Michael Behenna - A travesty of justice.

Here is a story of an Oklahoma soldier that has unjustly been convicted of murder. I am sharing this story that was originally emailed to me by a friend. As usual my curiosity into whether this story was real or just another email hoax got the better of me. Sadly it is not a hoax. I found a website called "Defend Michael" that verified everything I had read was true. Here is the link: http://defendmichael.wordpress.com I encourage you to visit the website and sign the petition to free Michael Behenna. Below is his story...

MILITARY PROSECUTORS WITHHOLD EVIDENCE; ARMY RANGER GOES TO PRISON FOR 25 YEARS FOR SHOOTING AL QAEDA OPERATIVE

The Story of Michael Behenna

On March 20th, 2009, Army Ranger 1st Lieutenant Michael Behenna was sentenced to 25 years in prison for killing Ali Mansur, a known Al Qaeda operative while serving in Iraq. Mansur was known to be a member of an Al Qaeda cell operating in the lieutenant’s area of operation and was suspected to have organized an attack on Lt. Behenna’s platoon in April 2008 which killed two U.S. soldiers and injured two more. Army intelligence ordered the release of Mansur and Lt. Behenna was ordered to return the terrorist to his home.

During the return of Mansur, Lt. Behenna again questioned the Al Qaeda member for information about other members of the terrorist cell, and financial supporters. During this interrogation, Mansur attacked Lt. Behenna, who killed the terrorist in self-defense. The government subsequently prosecuted Lt. Behenna for premeditated murder.

Not only is this a miscarriage of justice on the behalf of Lt. Behenna, who was acting to prevent further loss of life in his platoon, it is demoralizing to the U.S. troops who continue to fight on behalf of the freedom and security of our nation. Whether it is U.S. border patrol agents, members of the armed forces, or FBI agents, no individual who is serving on the frontlines in the War on Terror should be so blatantly mistreated.

We urgently need your help to correct this terrible wrong against a loyal and faithful soldier. Please contact your congressman and ask them to intervene on behalf of 1LT Behenna. Below is a brief recap of the relevant aspects of Lt. Behenna’s case.

September 2007: 1st Lieutenant Michael Behenna deployed to Iraq for his first combat experience.
April 21, 2008: Lt. Behenna’s platoon was attacked by Al Qaeda operatives. The attack resulted in death of two of Lt. Behenna’s platoon members, two Iraqi citizens, and wounded two additional soldiers under Lt. Behenna’s command.
May 5, 2008: Known terrorist Ali Mansur was detained at his home for suspected involvement in the attack on Lt. Behenna’s platoon.
May 16, 2008: Army Intelligence orders the release of Mansur. Lt. Behenna, who lost two members of his platoon just weeks earlier, was ordered to transport Mansur back to his home.
Lt. Behenna attempts a final interrogation of Mansur prior to his release.
During the interrogation, Behenna is attacked by Mansur and is forced to defend himself. During the altercation, the terrorist is killed. Lt. Behenna failed to properly report the incident.
July 2008: The U.S. Army charges Lt. Behenna with premeditated murder for the death of Al Qaeda operative and terrorist Ali Mansur.
February 23, 2009: Lt. Behenna’s trial begins.
Government and defense experts agree on the trajectory of the bullets killing Mansur
Prosecution expert Dr. Herbert MacDonnell initiated contact with defense attorneys explaining his agreement with the testimony of Lt. Behenna and his presentation to prosecutors supporting Lt. Behenna’s version of events.
Dr. MacDonnell is not called to testify in the case and instead is sent home. Just before leaving the courthouse he picks up his coat from the prosecution room and says to the three prosecutors (Megan Poirier, Jason Elbert, and Erwin Roberts), ‘The explanation that Lt Behenna just testified to was the exact same scenario I told you yesterday. Lt Behenna is telling the truth.’
Jack Zimmermann, defense counsel, asks prosecutors if they have any exculpatory evidence that should be provided to the defense (referring to Dr. MacDonnell’s demonstration). Prosecutors deny having any such evidence despite having been told by their own expert witness that Lt Behenna’s explanation was the only logical explanation.
Prosecutors withholding of this evidence allowed them to argue that Lt. Behenna executed Ali Mansur while seated when the forensic experts, including Dr. MacDonnell, agree that Ali was standing with his arms outstretched when shot.
Lt. Behenna is convicted of unpremeditated murder and assault by a military panel of seven officers, none of whom had combat experience.
Dr. MacDonnell contacts prosecution requesting that the information provided in his demonstration be given to the defense.
Prosecutors provide such information after a verdict was rendered, but prior to sentencing.
At the request of the presiding judge, Dr. MacDonnell provides his information to the court via telephone. The judge orders both sides in the case to file briefs relating to a possible mistrial
After reading the briefs the judge set an additional hearing and ordered additional briefs, including one from the defense requesting a new trial.

On March 20, the judge denied defense motions to declare a mistrial and to order a new trial
Lt. Behenna’s attorneys are appealing the verdict. Lt. Behenna is currently serving a 25-year sentence.

1st Lieutenant Michael Behenna was an excellent officer. He received his call to serve his country while attending the University of Central Oklahoma. He is from a family of public servants, his mother being an Assistant United States Attorney and his father a retired Special Agent with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. He has served the Army and the United States with honor and dignity. To sacrifice the life of this Oklahoma soldier over the death of a known terrorist, is a breech of faith with all who are serving our country.

(Please note that all of the above information is posted on the "Defend Michael" website.)

10th Annual Ator Cystic Fibrosis Craft Fair

In loving memory of Haley Brooke Palmer

For Haley's story see the post below titled "Owasso's Brave Little Angel: Haley Brook Palmer"

Please come out Nov. 14th to support the fight to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis from 9:00 to 4:00.

*Over 90 Booths*
*Full Concession*
*Dozens of Door Prizes*
*Photos With SantaAll For Kids Craft Booth*

For more information: http://owassocraftfair.blogspot.com/?spref=tw

All proceeds go to benefit the local Cystic Fibrosis Sooner Chapter. For more information go to: www.cff.org

Owasso's Brave Little Angel: Haley Brooke Palmer

Haley Brooke Palmer was born Aug. 30, 1995, to Jennifer and Rich Palmer. She was only three months old when she was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.

As she grew, Haley was determined to face her disease head on. She took up to 60 pills, used numerous inhalers and had several breathing treatments EACH DAY. She knew what each pill did and had extensive knowledge of CF. This brave little angel became very dedicated in spreading awareness and raising money for Cystic Fibrosis research. With the help of family and friends, Haley raised over $120,000 for vital CF research in hopes of one day finding a cure. As ambassador for the Sooner Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Haley would speak at 10 to 15 events a year. Through these events she met other kids with CF and made many friends along the way.

During her precious time here she gave encouragement with her strength and positive attitude. Haley was an inspiration to us all. Even those who did not have the honor of meeting her personally still knew of her message. Every day, in the town of Owasso, you would see the message “Pray for Haley” and everyone knew exactly why we were praying. She stayed true to her mission regardless of the toll her disease was taking on her health. Her motto was "Footprints in history aren't made sitting down”. In her bedroom, she kept a board with a prayer list that reminded her to pray for them daily. Haley wouldn’t allow her condition keep her from doing things. She liked playing Wii with her little sister, Brenna, had a growing collection of Webkinz and loved to read chapter books. She played soccer and participated in gymnastics with a vigor that inspired those around her.

On October 2007, Haley suffered a major health setback and her lungs began to deteriorate rapidly. In May of 2008 Haley was flown to St. Louis Children's Hospital in Missouri to be reevaluated for a double lung transplant to see if she qualified. After all the testing was done her family and friends were thrilled to learn that she DID indeed qualify. Her future looked bright…but only for a brief moment. The following day, her doctors ordered CT scans of Haley’s head. The images were devastating. Her CT showed that the infection had moved to the brain and the transplant had to be put on "hold".

June 13th 2008, Haley Brooke Palmer lost her courageous battle against Cystic Fibrosis. Even though our loss is difficult to bear, we seek comfort in the knowledge that she is with our heavenly father and watching over us. She no longer suffers from her disease. In the time that she blessed our world and our lives, Haley made great strides in making people aware of this debilitating disease and reminded us all to cherish each day. She still remains in our memory and in our inspired hearts, while we continue her fight to find a cure.
As her family posted on her web journal: Fly, fly little wings......breathe easy sweet girl.

I so admire the grace of her mother, father and sister throughout this difficult time in their lives.

They continue on with the search for a cure, just as Haley would have wanted. To Haley Brooke Palmer: May your wings sparkle as brightly as your smile.

To read more about Haley, you can visit her web journal: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/haleypalmer/mystory

A touching video in honor of Haley: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fc_JGSQle_c&feature=youtube_gdata

plus: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGmOP_rPhfs&feature=related (More videos can be found on youtube.)

Please support finding a cure for Cystic Fibrosis by donating your time through volunteering or money for research. Find out how here: http://www.cff.org/

Web Gems

I like finding interesting things on the internet. I have always admitted that I am a Google junkie; my friends lovingly call me the Google queen. Anytime anyone needs to find information about something, anything, they always come to me and within a few minutes they have what they were looking for. (Google should put me on their payroll. *cough cough* *hint hint*) Here are some cool things I found this week…

*There is a new search engine on the web now called “Leapfish” ( http://www.leapfish.com/ ). I checked it out and it seems pretty interesting. The page is real easy to read and the main page has news, celebrity news, videos, etc.; basically everything that Yahoo or MSN has to offer. When you use the search engine it is actually powered by not only Google, but also Yahoo and Bing. It’s like all the search engines in one convenient place and I like that. It also includes Flickr, Twitter and any other internet sites that pertain to what you are searching for. As for me, I will probably stick with my trusty ol’ Google, but Leapfish will definitely be added to my list of websites I like to use.

*Another site I found this week is Demand Media (http://www.demandmedia.com/ ). If you have a talent for writing and are looking for an excellent opportunity for work, you may want to check out Demand Media. I copied this directly from their website:

Demand Media™ is the leader in distributed social media powering 3 billion conversations every month.

Founded in 2006, Demand Media is led by executives with strong backgrounds in social media and technology. Our management team has extensive experience at globally recognized companies from MySpace to Yahoo!

Through Demand Studios, qualified writers, editors and filmmakers create valuable content and make money. On our media sites, millions of users engage through relevant content and passionate communities. Our products make it possible for thousands of businesses to grow by providing social media solutions that consumers really want.

Demand Media is well-capitalized and strategically positioned for both near and long term success. The company has raised more than $355 million dollars from tier-one investors, including Oak Investment Partners, Spectrum Equity Investors and Goldman Sachs.

For Passionate, Knowledgeable Individuals Demand Studios pays talented writers, filmmakers, editors and topical experts for creating and curating high-quality content for publication on one of the world’s largest and fastest growing online media networks. In joining our community, content contributors can generate income from their passions, from wherever and whenever they want.

Demand Studios makes it possible for qualified writers, editors and filmmakers to create valuable content, reach an audience of millions, and make money.

Sound interesting? Here is a link to the application form on their website:

https://www.demandstudios.com/application.html?role=Writer

*Twitter has become a huge powerhouse of networking, socializing, advertising and latest breaking news (even before the news channels report it). Now Amazon has gone and enlisted the help of their “Amazon associates” to help promote products from Amazon. They sent out an email to their associate members telling them about the latest company program called “Share with Twitter”. Participants are to use Twitter to tweet about products available and provide a link to the Amazon product. Then when someone on clicks the link (and also makes a purchase) the associate will earn referral fees payable through the Associates program. Neat promotional idea for Amazon but I wonder if this will prompt people to promote products, without any regard to whether the product is even worth purchasing, just to make money. I also wonder if, when people start promoting Amazon products, they will be perceived as “spam” on Twitter. Hmm…we will see.

Spam is beginning to be a problem on Twitter. Seasoned Twitterers are becoming suspicious of posts that sound spamish, which usually gets the poster deleted from a follow list and blocked. Sad thing is “spam” will probably be the downfall of Twitter. More and more people are getting tired of the cutsy crap (which is underlying spam) on Facebook. This has caused users to migrate from Facebook to Twitter. I hate to say that unless Twitter takes hold of these spammers, people will find another place to socialize. Then again it is only a matter of time until some new “social networking” site starts up and becomes the new must use website. Until that happens, Twitter on people! (Follow me on Twitter: @ajnyte )

*Now here is a guy with a simple idea at making good money. Jason Sadler came up with a genius idea to make companies pay him to wear their t-shirts. Okay so it’s not quite that simple, but almost. Here is what he told Reuters:

"I walk around, take photos, wear the shirt all day ... I blog about those photos, I put 'em up on Twitter, I change my Facebook profile ... and then I do a Youtube video. I made about $83,000 this year."

What the hell? $83,000! I must be doing something wrong because I wear t-shirts with logos all the time and don’t get paid for it. I also blog, use Twitter and Facebook every day, but yet…still don’t get paid for it. Well, good for you Jason. You found a niche, went with it and even found a way to make good money. If you are interested in Jason’s services or are just curious about how he started this business, here is his website: http://www.iwearyourshirt.com/

Here is a question I would like to ask these companies though…Why didn’t you just have one of your own employees wear the t-shirt and have your IT or advertising people blog, Twitter and Facebook about it instead of hiring an outside source to do so? Seems like promoting from within to me.