Arriving home for a short break Monday afternoon, I was in a good mood. My sons, who were out, had been home most of the day and being the eternal optimist I thought I might find the house, yard and pool in good shape.
Instead I found dirty cups and dishes in the sink, a full garbage pail, lots of leaves that needed to be skimmed off the pool and some very high grass in the front yard.
When it comes to chores, my 14 and 16 year old are not great self starters.
I did the dishes, took out the garbage and skimmed the pool. I don’t mind doing the work usually, but needed to get back to the R-J so I felt a little stressed. I also worry that my sons don’t learn anything if I do things for them.
On the other hand, I didn’t want my wife coming in to a mess.
My wife arrived home, just as I was leaving. I said hello, but in retrospect I wasn’t very talkative except to tell her about all the leaves in the pool.
About an hour later she called me at work and said she was going to cut the lawn. (The boys were still out with their grandparents). Since we bought the new push mower (you don’t really push it, it’s self-propelled) I’m the only one who has used it so I told her where the gas is and how to empty the clippings out of the bag attachment. I appreciated the initiative, but was worried she might not do the lawn like I do it.
Arriving home around 8:30 p.m., it was nice to see the lawn freshly cut. My wife’s rows were a lot straighter than mine. She did an excellent job getting all the clippings off the lawn in the bag.
The point of this story could be that my sons need to help out more with chores.
But when I saw the lawn cut, I forgot about what my sons hadn’t done and was very appreciative of my wife helping out on a day when I felt a little overwhelmed.
Let me know what you think.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Never mind Facebook, what about my hair?
Yesterday I blogged about whether I should joing Facebook. Right after I viewed the daily video I do for MyRecordJournal.com. I have to admit, I haven't looked at the video in a few weeks. Shame on me.
Anyhow, when I tuned in I couldn't believe how long my hair is !
Or maybe I'm overreacting. I have an excellent barber, but have never liked getting my hair cut. I actually prefer going to the dentist. The sound and feel of metal scissors cutting hair grates on me like fingernails on a blackboard.
Luckily, my barber and his sons are great conversationalists and distract me enough to get through it.
My wife says she likes my hair long. Others have commented it looks unprofessional. Take a look at my daily vidoe and let me know if you think I should cut my hair. I'm thinking of going on Monday.
Anyhow, when I tuned in I couldn't believe how long my hair is !
Or maybe I'm overreacting. I have an excellent barber, but have never liked getting my hair cut. I actually prefer going to the dentist. The sound and feel of metal scissors cutting hair grates on me like fingernails on a blackboard.
Luckily, my barber and his sons are great conversationalists and distract me enough to get through it.
My wife says she likes my hair long. Others have commented it looks unprofessional. Take a look at my daily vidoe and let me know if you think I should cut my hair. I'm thinking of going on Monday.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Should I join Facebook?
When I visited a class at Moran Middle School in Wallingford earlier this month, a student asked “Has Facebook changed the way you report the news?”
I responded that it has but admitted I couldn’t explain the specifics because I do not have a Facebook page and have never responded to a Facebook "friend request." Most of the students looked surprised. I told them that I should probably start a page so that I can better understand Facebook’s influence on news reporting. Almost three weeks later, I still haven't joined.
Yesterday, another one of those Facebook e-mails appeared in my inbox. It reminded me that seven people recently invited me to be their “friend.” I remember each of the individual friend requests. I considered responding, but never did. I've known a couple of the people for a long time but don’t run into them that often. I wonder if they keep track of the people who don’t want to be their friends?
I hate to blame everything on teen-agers but my sons soured me on Facebook a couple of years ago. Michael had just joined and I asked if he was going to friend request me. He told me it wasn’t cool for teens to friend request people my age, especially their own father. I told him I wasn’t like other people my age and was “cool” enough to be his Facebook friend. He wasn’t swayed.
A few months later I was talking to another parent we know from baseball and basketball teams. He told me that he and Michael were Facebook friends.
“Mike if I’m not cool enough to be your Facebrook friend why did you respond to Mr. Bradley’s friend request?,” I asked.
“Mr. Bradley is cool,” he said dryly, not realizing or caring about the wound he had inflicted. Believing your son thinks all 40-somethings are not cool is one thing, finding out that he considers some cooler than you is worse.
At first Facebook seemed to be for the younger set. Over the past couple of years I’ve noticed it has become popular with all ages. I’d be curious to hear from other people who don’t have a Facebook page about why they’ve avoided joining and others who have joined about the advantages. Let me know what you think.
I responded that it has but admitted I couldn’t explain the specifics because I do not have a Facebook page and have never responded to a Facebook "friend request." Most of the students looked surprised. I told them that I should probably start a page so that I can better understand Facebook’s influence on news reporting. Almost three weeks later, I still haven't joined.
Yesterday, another one of those Facebook e-mails appeared in my inbox. It reminded me that seven people recently invited me to be their “friend.” I remember each of the individual friend requests. I considered responding, but never did. I've known a couple of the people for a long time but don’t run into them that often. I wonder if they keep track of the people who don’t want to be their friends?
I hate to blame everything on teen-agers but my sons soured me on Facebook a couple of years ago. Michael had just joined and I asked if he was going to friend request me. He told me it wasn’t cool for teens to friend request people my age, especially their own father. I told him I wasn’t like other people my age and was “cool” enough to be his Facebook friend. He wasn’t swayed.
A few months later I was talking to another parent we know from baseball and basketball teams. He told me that he and Michael were Facebook friends.
“Mike if I’m not cool enough to be your Facebrook friend why did you respond to Mr. Bradley’s friend request?,” I asked.
“Mr. Bradley is cool,” he said dryly, not realizing or caring about the wound he had inflicted. Believing your son thinks all 40-somethings are not cool is one thing, finding out that he considers some cooler than you is worse.
At first Facebook seemed to be for the younger set. Over the past couple of years I’ve noticed it has become popular with all ages. I’d be curious to hear from other people who don’t have a Facebook page about why they’ve avoided joining and others who have joined about the advantages. Let me know what you think.
R-J news report Thursday, June 18
Report from the R-J newsroom on Thursday, June 18
Platt and Maloney High Schools hold graduation ceremonies tonight. Look for a full page of graduation coverage, including plenty of photographs in Friday’s Record-Journal.
As of 10:20 a.m., Maloney and Platt officials had not decided whether to hold the ceremony indoors or outdoors. Check out our website, MyRecordJournal.com for the status of the graduation ceremonies.
Federal agents and local police are involved in a warrant sweep in the area today, looking for people wanted on criminal charges. Look for the full story in tomorrow’s Record-Journal.
Also in Meriden, the union representing employees who work at Falcon Field during games and events is expected to vote today on whether to protest the use of volunteers to do work at the field.
In Wallingford, we will be following up on last night’s big announcement by Town Council Chairman Mike Brodinsky that he will not seek another term.
In Southington, look for a story on a well-known drive-in restaurant with a new owner.
In sports we will be taking a look at how rain has effected Wallingford’s Wint Filipek tennis tournament
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal look for a story on dads deployed overseas on Father’s Day.
On MyRecordJournal.com
I just watched the video interview of Lyman Hall valedictorian Jacqueline Pitcher. I like her thoughts on the importance of balance in life. Check it out when you have a chance.
Tonight look for hundreds of photos out of the Maloney and Platt High School graduation ceremonies.
Platt and Maloney High Schools hold graduation ceremonies tonight. Look for a full page of graduation coverage, including plenty of photographs in Friday’s Record-Journal.
As of 10:20 a.m., Maloney and Platt officials had not decided whether to hold the ceremony indoors or outdoors. Check out our website, MyRecordJournal.com for the status of the graduation ceremonies.
Federal agents and local police are involved in a warrant sweep in the area today, looking for people wanted on criminal charges. Look for the full story in tomorrow’s Record-Journal.
Also in Meriden, the union representing employees who work at Falcon Field during games and events is expected to vote today on whether to protest the use of volunteers to do work at the field.
In Wallingford, we will be following up on last night’s big announcement by Town Council Chairman Mike Brodinsky that he will not seek another term.
In Southington, look for a story on a well-known drive-in restaurant with a new owner.
In sports we will be taking a look at how rain has effected Wallingford’s Wint Filipek tennis tournament
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal look for a story on dads deployed overseas on Father’s Day.
On MyRecordJournal.com
I just watched the video interview of Lyman Hall valedictorian Jacqueline Pitcher. I like her thoughts on the importance of balance in life. Check it out when you have a chance.
Tonight look for hundreds of photos out of the Maloney and Platt High School graduation ceremonies.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
R-J newsroom report for Wednesday, June 17
R-J newsroom report for Wednesday, June 17
Wilcox Technical School in Meriden will hold its graduation ceremony tonight. Look for a full page of graduation coverage, including plenty of photographs in Thursday’s Record-Journal.
Also in tomorrow’s Record-Journal, look for the latest news on Wallingford Democrats seeking a spot on the ballot this November. We will be at tonight’s meeting of the Democratic Town Committee and let you know the latest.
In Southington, a long-awaited plan to sell advertising at the high school athletic field appears to be finalized.
In Sports, we have continuing coverage of Meriden’s Little League championship – the City Series.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Saturday and Sunday’s Record-Journal look for coverage of Meriden’s Black Expo celebration.
On MyRecordJournal.comIn our forum section, check out a discussion about shopping locally.
Check out our latest valedictorian video. If features Justin Solomon of Southington.
Tonight look for plenty of photos of the Wilcox graduation on MyRecordJournal.
Wilcox Technical School in Meriden will hold its graduation ceremony tonight. Look for a full page of graduation coverage, including plenty of photographs in Thursday’s Record-Journal.
Also in tomorrow’s Record-Journal, look for the latest news on Wallingford Democrats seeking a spot on the ballot this November. We will be at tonight’s meeting of the Democratic Town Committee and let you know the latest.
In Southington, a long-awaited plan to sell advertising at the high school athletic field appears to be finalized.
In Sports, we have continuing coverage of Meriden’s Little League championship – the City Series.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Saturday and Sunday’s Record-Journal look for coverage of Meriden’s Black Expo celebration.
On MyRecordJournal.comIn our forum section, check out a discussion about shopping locally.
Check out our latest valedictorian video. If features Justin Solomon of Southington.
Tonight look for plenty of photos of the Wilcox graduation on MyRecordJournal.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
I still can't figure out what happened
On Sunday night around 9:20 p.m. I asked my 16-year-old if he wanted to head out to Pat Wall field to catch the end of a Twilight League baseball game. We usually don’t go out that late on a school night, but he had mentioned to me the previous week that he has trouble falling asleep Sunday night (he sleeps late most Sunday mornings) so I figured a baseball game might help. I even offered to let him drive before he asked.
At the game, we ran into some old Little League friends. A couple of Michael’s high school coaches play on one of the teams. He enjoyed seeing them hit and field. The game ended about 20 minutes after we arrived. We were having such a good time, I suggested a short ride. We eventually stopped at Dunkin Donuts so I could get a cup of coffee.
Somewhere in the drive-thru line it happened.
Michael suddenly became angry about not being able to get his license in August because of some problems with his grades. I swear I didn’t even mention his grades or his license. He was so upset it was hard to figure out what prompted the outburst. Eventually I realized it was some conversation he had with my wife a day or two before. I suggested he calm down and said I would talk to mom about it the next day. When he parked the car in our driveway, he was still mad. Despite my warning, he went into the house and immediately continued the fight with my wife, who was having none of it. She was mad. They both went to bed mad at each other.
I was left awake and confused. Less than a half hour earlier I was having a great night, thinking teen-agers really aren’t as bad as I sometimes make them seem in this blog.
Let me know what you think.
At the game, we ran into some old Little League friends. A couple of Michael’s high school coaches play on one of the teams. He enjoyed seeing them hit and field. The game ended about 20 minutes after we arrived. We were having such a good time, I suggested a short ride. We eventually stopped at Dunkin Donuts so I could get a cup of coffee.
Somewhere in the drive-thru line it happened.
Michael suddenly became angry about not being able to get his license in August because of some problems with his grades. I swear I didn’t even mention his grades or his license. He was so upset it was hard to figure out what prompted the outburst. Eventually I realized it was some conversation he had with my wife a day or two before. I suggested he calm down and said I would talk to mom about it the next day. When he parked the car in our driveway, he was still mad. Despite my warning, he went into the house and immediately continued the fight with my wife, who was having none of it. She was mad. They both went to bed mad at each other.
I was left awake and confused. Less than a half hour earlier I was having a great night, thinking teen-agers really aren’t as bad as I sometimes make them seem in this blog.
Let me know what you think.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Peace man
My 16-year-old came home with his high school yearbook last night. A peace sign was prominent on the cover.
It didn’t surprise me. Throughout Michael’s sophomore year at Lyman Hall High School, I’ve been peppered with questions about hippies, The Doors, Vietnam, JFK, Malcom X, long hair and Woodstock. His iPod library has plenty of rap, but is about 30 or 40 percent Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath, Jefferson Airplane, The Rolling Stones and other 1960s bands.
Born in 1963, I didn’t experience the '60s the way older baby boomers did. But when I was in high school in the late '70s and early '80s, many aspects of '60s culture remained.
The '60s had its dark side. Illicit drugs became more main stream. Self-indulgence and casual sex became an accepted part of the culture. Cynicism and conspiracy theories became cool.
As a parent, I admit that this fascination with the '60s sometimes amuses me and sometimes worries me.
Is this latest '60s revival a good thing for teens? Let me know what you think?
It didn’t surprise me. Throughout Michael’s sophomore year at Lyman Hall High School, I’ve been peppered with questions about hippies, The Doors, Vietnam, JFK, Malcom X, long hair and Woodstock. His iPod library has plenty of rap, but is about 30 or 40 percent Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath, Jefferson Airplane, The Rolling Stones and other 1960s bands.
Born in 1963, I didn’t experience the '60s the way older baby boomers did. But when I was in high school in the late '70s and early '80s, many aspects of '60s culture remained.
The '60s had its dark side. Illicit drugs became more main stream. Self-indulgence and casual sex became an accepted part of the culture. Cynicism and conspiracy theories became cool.
As a parent, I admit that this fascination with the '60s sometimes amuses me and sometimes worries me.
Is this latest '60s revival a good thing for teens? Let me know what you think?
R-J newsroom Friday, June 12
Report from the R-J newsroom on Friday, June 12
The Southington Relay for Life kicks off tonight, look for full coverage in Saturday’s Record-Journal.
Also in tomorrow’s paper, we’ve received word that a Wallingford business, Davidson Foods, which employs about 50 people, will be moving out of town.
Earlier this week the idea of offering a tax break for people who buy a new fuel-efficient car was being discussed in Congress. We will talk to local residents about the possible incentive.
Saturday is knitting in public day. We’ll have a story on local knitters who will be participating.
In Sports, the Southington volleyball team plays in the state championship tonight. Look for the story and photos in the sports section of Saturday’s Record-Journal.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal look for a story on some recent campaign ads that Sen. Chris Dodd has been running on TV.
In Monday’s Record-Journal look for coverage of an interfaith service at a Meriden mosque.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Check out our latest headlines. You’ll learn about a Southington police officer who was suspended after being charged with drunk driving. Also, learn about a house fire in Meriden this morning.
I just watched the video of Maloney High School Valedictorian Noreen Sit. Very interesting, especially if you like songs about calculus.
In our forum section, active discussion on Wallingford media personality John Sullivan, who announced this week that is officially seeking his party’s nomination to run for Town Council. One of our forum participants even takes a swipe at yours truly. Check it out on MyRecordJournal.
The Southington Relay for Life kicks off tonight, look for full coverage in Saturday’s Record-Journal.
Also in tomorrow’s paper, we’ve received word that a Wallingford business, Davidson Foods, which employs about 50 people, will be moving out of town.
Earlier this week the idea of offering a tax break for people who buy a new fuel-efficient car was being discussed in Congress. We will talk to local residents about the possible incentive.
Saturday is knitting in public day. We’ll have a story on local knitters who will be participating.
In Sports, the Southington volleyball team plays in the state championship tonight. Look for the story and photos in the sports section of Saturday’s Record-Journal.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal look for a story on some recent campaign ads that Sen. Chris Dodd has been running on TV.
In Monday’s Record-Journal look for coverage of an interfaith service at a Meriden mosque.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Check out our latest headlines. You’ll learn about a Southington police officer who was suspended after being charged with drunk driving. Also, learn about a house fire in Meriden this morning.
I just watched the video of Maloney High School Valedictorian Noreen Sit. Very interesting, especially if you like songs about calculus.
In our forum section, active discussion on Wallingford media personality John Sullivan, who announced this week that is officially seeking his party’s nomination to run for Town Council. One of our forum participants even takes a swipe at yours truly. Check it out on MyRecordJournal.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
A sad sneaker story
A follow up to yesterday’s blog. My wife wanted me to write about my new sneakers and I opted to publicly confess that I re-use Dunkin Donut cups.
Walking around my neighborhood last night, I sensed something damp and gritty rubbing against my socks. The problem was a tear in my sneakers that I discovered about two months ago. It had finally ripped all the way through and sand was working its way in as I walked.
When I first noticed the tear I was sitting in the bleachers with my wife and about a dozen other parents watching my son play baseball. I loudly pointed out the rip and asked my wife if I now “qualified” for a new pair. I admit it was rude and an attempt to embarrass her but it is part of this phase I’m going through. I feel like most of the money we earn gets spent on my sons. In my mind, my wife spends most of the rest on herself and very little seems to trickle down to yours truly. As I see it, my sons seem to get new $100 sneakers regularly while I’m still wearing two-year-old Reeboks that cost me less than $40.
When we got home my wife told me I was out of line and got busy trying to find me new sneakers online. When that failed, she headed out to run some errands and returned with two new pair of Reeboks. I like to buy two pair at a time, one for show and one for chores and exercise. I tried them on, put them back in the box and placed them in the back room, vowing to wear them the next day.
Here is where the story gets strange. Two months later they remain in the box. I have this thing about parting with sneakers, clothing and other items. My wife buys replacements, but then I just can’t seem to actually use them. My home laptop sat in its box for about a year. I insisted I needed a new DVD player three years ago and only took it out of the box several months ago. (I still regret getting rid of the old one. In my mind it worked better.) I just started using a new radio I received for Christmas. There is a coffee maker sitting in my basement that I received for Christmas about five years ago.
I realize I need to replace things that are old and worn and not working properly, but I feel a strange attachment to objects like sneakers, DVD players and computers. Parting with them feels like parting with someone I’ve known for a long time and grown used to.
Since my wife considers herself an expert shopper, this strange habit is an insult to her purchasing prowess. She thinks she bought me some great sneakers at a great price after I complained publicly. Seeing them unopened two months later is annoying at best.
I think feeling the sand on my socks made me realize that my sneakers have given all they can give. I’ll keep you posted. Let me know what you think.
Walking around my neighborhood last night, I sensed something damp and gritty rubbing against my socks. The problem was a tear in my sneakers that I discovered about two months ago. It had finally ripped all the way through and sand was working its way in as I walked.
When I first noticed the tear I was sitting in the bleachers with my wife and about a dozen other parents watching my son play baseball. I loudly pointed out the rip and asked my wife if I now “qualified” for a new pair. I admit it was rude and an attempt to embarrass her but it is part of this phase I’m going through. I feel like most of the money we earn gets spent on my sons. In my mind, my wife spends most of the rest on herself and very little seems to trickle down to yours truly. As I see it, my sons seem to get new $100 sneakers regularly while I’m still wearing two-year-old Reeboks that cost me less than $40.
When we got home my wife told me I was out of line and got busy trying to find me new sneakers online. When that failed, she headed out to run some errands and returned with two new pair of Reeboks. I like to buy two pair at a time, one for show and one for chores and exercise. I tried them on, put them back in the box and placed them in the back room, vowing to wear them the next day.
Here is where the story gets strange. Two months later they remain in the box. I have this thing about parting with sneakers, clothing and other items. My wife buys replacements, but then I just can’t seem to actually use them. My home laptop sat in its box for about a year. I insisted I needed a new DVD player three years ago and only took it out of the box several months ago. (I still regret getting rid of the old one. In my mind it worked better.) I just started using a new radio I received for Christmas. There is a coffee maker sitting in my basement that I received for Christmas about five years ago.
I realize I need to replace things that are old and worn and not working properly, but I feel a strange attachment to objects like sneakers, DVD players and computers. Parting with them feels like parting with someone I’ve known for a long time and grown used to.
Since my wife considers herself an expert shopper, this strange habit is an insult to her purchasing prowess. She thinks she bought me some great sneakers at a great price after I complained publicly. Seeing them unopened two months later is annoying at best.
I think feeling the sand on my socks made me realize that my sneakers have given all they can give. I’ll keep you posted. Let me know what you think.
From the R-J newsroom, Tuesday June 9
From the R-J newsroom, Tuesday, June 9
A kindergarten addition at Hanover School and boiler replacement at City Hall are among the items the Meriden City Council is expected to discuss tonight as part of more than $14 million in proposed projects that would require borrowing. Look for the story in Wednesday’s Record-Journal.
Also in Wednesday’s newspaper, we will let you know why the flag of France is being displayed in downtown Wallingford.
As part of our continuing profiles of local valedictorians, look for the story on Sheehan’s top student.
By the way, I just watched the video interview with Platt’s valedictorian on MyRecordJournal.com Videographer Ben Smithwick and reporter Andrew Perlot did a great job. Check it out.
In sports, Southington and Cheshire boys volleyball teams square off in state tournament semi-final action tonight. That game is at Shelton High school starting at 7 p.m. Look for full coverage in the sports section of Wednesday’s Record-Journal.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
Lots of weekend events in our area. We will be covering the Southington Relay for Life event and the Brian D. McCarthy Scholarship basketball tournament in Wallingford. Look for stories and photos in weekend editions of the Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Find out about an accident on 691 West that slowed traffic this morning. Check out all the latest headlines.
Don’t forget to vote in our online poll on internet use at public libraries.
Check out my latest written blog on re-using Dunkin donut coffee cups.
A kindergarten addition at Hanover School and boiler replacement at City Hall are among the items the Meriden City Council is expected to discuss tonight as part of more than $14 million in proposed projects that would require borrowing. Look for the story in Wednesday’s Record-Journal.
Also in Wednesday’s newspaper, we will let you know why the flag of France is being displayed in downtown Wallingford.
As part of our continuing profiles of local valedictorians, look for the story on Sheehan’s top student.
By the way, I just watched the video interview with Platt’s valedictorian on MyRecordJournal.com Videographer Ben Smithwick and reporter Andrew Perlot did a great job. Check it out.
In sports, Southington and Cheshire boys volleyball teams square off in state tournament semi-final action tonight. That game is at Shelton High school starting at 7 p.m. Look for full coverage in the sports section of Wednesday’s Record-Journal.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
Lots of weekend events in our area. We will be covering the Southington Relay for Life event and the Brian D. McCarthy Scholarship basketball tournament in Wallingford. Look for stories and photos in weekend editions of the Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Find out about an accident on 691 West that slowed traffic this morning. Check out all the latest headlines.
Don’t forget to vote in our online poll on internet use at public libraries.
Check out my latest written blog on re-using Dunkin donut coffee cups.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Is this story too embarassing?
“Did you tell John Sullivan about your two new pairs of sneakers,” Mary asks as I return from the Sunday night internet radio show that I do with John, one of Wallingford’s best-known media personalities.
For some reason, I’m not really sure exactly, she wants me to tell him the story about my new sneakers. I think it is because she thinks John will hear the story and tell me how strange I am. She enjoys that.
“I didn’ tell him, but I think I’m going to blog about it,” I said.
She smiles at the thought of me blogging about the two new pairs of sneakers that I have yet to wear two months after she bought them because she always hopeful that revealing my foibles will make the public turn on me.
“But first I’m going to blog about re-using Dunkin Donuts cups,” I add.
Her smile fades.
“I wouldn’t blog about that,” said said.
“Why not?”
“Too embarrassing,” she replies.
“Well then maybe you will get your wish and when they read about it they will finally realize just how difficult you have it.”
I drink about three cups of coffee each morning. The first two I have at home. The third I usually start at home and finish on the ride or after I get to work. For a while I was using one of those re-usable thermos type cups for the third cup. It gave the coffee a “plastic” taste and I had trouble sipping it out of the spill proof opening without spilling on my shirt or tie. I had Mary buy me some generic paper cups with lids. That was kind of expensive and not very environmentally friendly. A few months ago I couldn’t find my thermos cup and we were out of generic plastic cups. I noticed a Dunkin Donuts Styrofoam cup in the car from the night before. I washed it out, poured the coffee in and was on my way to work.
As I drove and sipped, I noticed no spilling. The coffee stayed plenty warm and somehow drinking out of the Dunkin Donuts cup made my brand taste better.
Since then I’ve been saving the medium coffee cups I purchase from Dunkin Donuts every few days and using them to transport my coffee when I leave home. If you look in our kitchen cabinets, you will usually find one or two washed Dunkin Donut cups and lids. When I get a new one, I throw an old one out.
Let me know if you think if I should have listened to my wife and not shared this. Also, would you have preferred to hear the story about the two new pairs of sneakers that I have yet to open?
For some reason, I’m not really sure exactly, she wants me to tell him the story about my new sneakers. I think it is because she thinks John will hear the story and tell me how strange I am. She enjoys that.
“I didn’ tell him, but I think I’m going to blog about it,” I said.
She smiles at the thought of me blogging about the two new pairs of sneakers that I have yet to wear two months after she bought them because she always hopeful that revealing my foibles will make the public turn on me.
“But first I’m going to blog about re-using Dunkin Donuts cups,” I add.
Her smile fades.
“I wouldn’t blog about that,” said said.
“Why not?”
“Too embarrassing,” she replies.
“Well then maybe you will get your wish and when they read about it they will finally realize just how difficult you have it.”
I drink about three cups of coffee each morning. The first two I have at home. The third I usually start at home and finish on the ride or after I get to work. For a while I was using one of those re-usable thermos type cups for the third cup. It gave the coffee a “plastic” taste and I had trouble sipping it out of the spill proof opening without spilling on my shirt or tie. I had Mary buy me some generic paper cups with lids. That was kind of expensive and not very environmentally friendly. A few months ago I couldn’t find my thermos cup and we were out of generic plastic cups. I noticed a Dunkin Donuts Styrofoam cup in the car from the night before. I washed it out, poured the coffee in and was on my way to work.
As I drove and sipped, I noticed no spilling. The coffee stayed plenty warm and somehow drinking out of the Dunkin Donuts cup made my brand taste better.
Since then I’ve been saving the medium coffee cups I purchase from Dunkin Donuts every few days and using them to transport my coffee when I leave home. If you look in our kitchen cabinets, you will usually find one or two washed Dunkin Donut cups and lids. When I get a new one, I throw an old one out.
Let me know if you think if I should have listened to my wife and not shared this. Also, would you have preferred to hear the story about the two new pairs of sneakers that I have yet to open?
Record-Journal newsroom Monday June 8
Record-Journal newsroom report, Monday, June 8
In Tuesday’s Record-Journal look for a story on the Wallingford Board of Education’s final budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The board needs to close a $2.5 million gap. We will let you know how they do it.
Also in tomorrow’s paper, look for a story on a Wallingford poodle that was actually bitten by a deer. Experts say it is unusual but not unheard of and offer some advice on how to protect small pets from wild animals.
St. Bridget’s parochial school in Cheshire has been closed since the end of last week, we’ll let you know what is going on.
In Sports, the Southington girls softball team plays in the Class LL semi-finals against top-ranked Masuk of Monroe. Look for the game story and photos in Tuesday’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
New medical office building is opening in Wallingford. Look for the story in an upcoming edition of the Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Very active forum the negotiations between the Meriden Board of Education and its teacher’s union. Check it out.
Take a look at the Spotted photo gallery on the Cheshire Relay for Life event.
Don’t forget to vote in our online poll on internet use at the Wallingord public library.
In Tuesday’s Record-Journal look for a story on the Wallingford Board of Education’s final budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The board needs to close a $2.5 million gap. We will let you know how they do it.
Also in tomorrow’s paper, look for a story on a Wallingford poodle that was actually bitten by a deer. Experts say it is unusual but not unheard of and offer some advice on how to protect small pets from wild animals.
St. Bridget’s parochial school in Cheshire has been closed since the end of last week, we’ll let you know what is going on.
In Sports, the Southington girls softball team plays in the Class LL semi-finals against top-ranked Masuk of Monroe. Look for the game story and photos in Tuesday’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
New medical office building is opening in Wallingford. Look for the story in an upcoming edition of the Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Very active forum the negotiations between the Meriden Board of Education and its teacher’s union. Check it out.
Take a look at the Spotted photo gallery on the Cheshire Relay for Life event.
Don’t forget to vote in our online poll on internet use at the Wallingord public library.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Record-Journal newsroom Friday, June 5
Stories we are working on the Record-Journal newsroom on Friday, June 5
In Saturday's Record-Journal, look for a story on a new proposal on how to handle ethics complaints in Wallingford. There has been a lot of controversy over the past year on some of the decisions the board has made and sparring over its makeup. We’ll let you know about the latest plan.
Also in Wallingford we will have feature story in tomorrow’s newspaper on “bad tie day” at Town Hall.
Meriden will have a new court focusing on legal matters involving children.
In business, we will let you know about expanded hours for an agency that helps people find jobs.
In sports, we’ve already received word that today’s state tournament quarterfinal softball matchup between Lyman Hall and Waterford has been postponed. There may be other postponements. Look for an updated schedule in Saturday’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal, look for a story on first-term Wallingford Republican councilor John Letourneau’s battle to secure his party’s endorsement.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Very active forum on last night’s decision by the Meriden Board of Education to move forward with a plan to layoff teachers.
The Cheshire Relay for Life event kicks off tonight. We will have a spotted photographer at the event. Look for pics on MyRecordJournal later tonight.
In Saturday's Record-Journal, look for a story on a new proposal on how to handle ethics complaints in Wallingford. There has been a lot of controversy over the past year on some of the decisions the board has made and sparring over its makeup. We’ll let you know about the latest plan.
Also in Wallingford we will have feature story in tomorrow’s newspaper on “bad tie day” at Town Hall.
Meriden will have a new court focusing on legal matters involving children.
In business, we will let you know about expanded hours for an agency that helps people find jobs.
In sports, we’ve already received word that today’s state tournament quarterfinal softball matchup between Lyman Hall and Waterford has been postponed. There may be other postponements. Look for an updated schedule in Saturday’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
In Sunday’s Record-Journal, look for a story on first-term Wallingford Republican councilor John Letourneau’s battle to secure his party’s endorsement.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Very active forum on last night’s decision by the Meriden Board of Education to move forward with a plan to layoff teachers.
The Cheshire Relay for Life event kicks off tonight. We will have a spotted photographer at the event. Look for pics on MyRecordJournal later tonight.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
News report on Thursday, June 4
Some of the stories the R-J newsroom is pursuing on Thursday, June 4.
Meriden Board of Education meets tonight and will once again discuss its final budget for the upcoming fiscal year, most importantly what will be cut. School sports, special academic programs and staff are apparently still on the chopping block. The board may or may not reach final decisions tonight. Look for the story in Friday’s Record-Journal.
Also in Friday’s newspaper, a story on the annual meeting of the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce, which includes Wallingford.
We will also let you know about a soap box derby winner in Wallingford.
In Southington, students are headed over to New Britain Superior Court to participate in a mock trial.
In sports, Southington High School, Cheshire, Lyman Hall and Maloney softball teams all play in state tournament quarter finals this afternoon. Look for the stories in tomorrow’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
The Cheshire Relay for Life event starts Friday night. Look for coverage in Saturday’s Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Check out the video on the holocaust survivor that spoke to Southington students yesterday.
Vote in our online poll on political messages and Memorial Day parades?
Later today look for a story on a Meriden boxing club that is running a program at the city’s housing projects.
Meriden Board of Education meets tonight and will once again discuss its final budget for the upcoming fiscal year, most importantly what will be cut. School sports, special academic programs and staff are apparently still on the chopping block. The board may or may not reach final decisions tonight. Look for the story in Friday’s Record-Journal.
Also in Friday’s newspaper, a story on the annual meeting of the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce, which includes Wallingford.
We will also let you know about a soap box derby winner in Wallingford.
In Southington, students are headed over to New Britain Superior Court to participate in a mock trial.
In sports, Southington High School, Cheshire, Lyman Hall and Maloney softball teams all play in state tournament quarter finals this afternoon. Look for the stories in tomorrow’s Record-Journal sports section.
Upcoming in the Record-Journal
The Cheshire Relay for Life event starts Friday night. Look for coverage in Saturday’s Record-Journal.
On MyRecordJournal.com
Check out the video on the holocaust survivor that spoke to Southington students yesterday.
Vote in our online poll on political messages and Memorial Day parades?
Later today look for a story on a Meriden boxing club that is running a program at the city’s housing projects.
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