tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81961067511485590972011-11-27T17:39:15.004-06:00This is a crazy world, however we must still navigate through it, while trying to remain sane - as sane as one can reasonably be expected to be. Consider my blog to be a rant to this world; it may point out the negative things taking place, but I promise to always try to put a positive spin on it, however difficult that may be. At any rate, I hope you all enjoy reading my posts.Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.comBlogger861100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-43827970849293780152009-08-14T22:57:00.001-05:002009-08-14T22:57:24.919-05:00

Third Coast ChroniclesShared via AddThis

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-80237687058613473192009-08-07T14:04:00.000-05:002009-08-07T14:04:15.853-05:00

Vampire Discrimination on True Blood

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-15264353719036594882009-08-03T10:15:00.001-05:002009-08-03T10:15:25.649-05:00

N.Y. Times assigns full-time reporter to New Orleansby Gordon Russell, The Times-Picayune Monday August 03, 2009, 6:04 AMMaking good on a promise to keep a national focus on New Orleans' halting recovery, the New York Times has named a full-time correspondent who will be stationed in the city, staffing a post that had been vacant since April. Keep Reading

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-10502523375884980732009-08-01T17:31:00.001-05:002009-08-01T17:31:19.571-05:00

Sports : NFL star visits Roanoke Rapids (Roanoke Rapids, NC)Posted using ShareThis

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-18088267180128707922009-08-01T17:29:00.001-05:002009-08-01T17:29:33.538-05:00

Organizers plan Vick 'celebration' in his hometown - WRALSportsFan.comShared via AddThis

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-73280385822286434452009-07-31T09:33:00.003-05:002009-07-31T09:44:10.717-05:00

This is not posted in jest - this is for those who know that even though the majority of the world subscribes to another ideology, the Lord who made us loves us no matter how we look - after all, it is He who created all the beautiful things on this earth, including those of us who despite being aesthetically challenged, have good hearts. No matter what, I know God made me with sparkles & I was

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-18687690577622228672009-07-31T09:32:00.001-05:002009-07-31T09:32:16.053-05:00

  But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him.  The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.                        I Samuel 16:7 NIV   Lord, Some people look at me and say, "There's no way you can do this."  But with You I can do anything, Lord.  You

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-62085183137316580262009-07-30T22:37:00.001-05:002009-07-30T22:37:38.600-05:00

The Free StuffPosted using ShareThis

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-26445272768089595002009-07-27T22:07:00.001-05:002009-07-27T22:07:37.393-05:00

Michael Vick returns to the NFL: Redeemable?Posted using ShareThis

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-67423964580699218952009-07-27T19:42:00.005-05:002009-07-27T19:52:06.773-05:00

The New Orleans Conservative Examiner always has an interesting and insightful take on current events. In fact, I often wonder when he will be approached to pen a national column. Click here for a prime example of just this - in the article featured in this link, Clifford asks a burning question that I myself would like to see answered.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-56506454583884112752009-07-27T14:57:00.001-05:002009-07-27T14:57:53.378-05:00

According to Roger Goodell, Michael Vick has been reinstated by the NFL. Check back often, as I plan to blog a bit more about this once I get a moment. Until then, here is a link to a story by WDSU in New Orleans, Louisiana: http://www.wdsu.com/sports/20182972/detail.html?treets=no&tml=no_natlbreak&ts=T&tmi=no_natlbreak_1_02370107272009.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-20144677837631271662009-07-26T21:41:00.004-05:002009-07-26T21:51:01.359-05:00

This Tuesday, July 28th, 'Streets of Blood', a violent film supposedly set in post-Katrina New Orleans, will released. The film stars Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson and Val Kilmer. Click here to read a review of the film in the Times-Picayune.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-58725746912641737142009-07-22T22:44:00.002-05:002009-07-22T22:50:37.468-05:00

Click here to read my post entitled, "David Vitter Versus the Porn Star."

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-74837651950461828912009-07-22T22:41:00.002-05:002009-07-22T22:42:25.620-05:00

Click here to read my post entitled: Louisiana - Third World?

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-5619629153748912152009-07-22T22:28:00.003-05:002009-07-22T22:34:12.464-05:00

The title speaks for itself. Click here to read about a condition called "TMT", "Too Much Twitter."

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-89313222039711125152009-07-22T16:05:00.001-05:002009-07-22T16:05:05.898-05:00

It seems as if we made it through the solar eclipse relatively unscathed – at least in this part of the world. Thank goodness – for many reasons – the most of which is because I would like to be able to turn on the idiot box tonight and watch something other than "Solar Eclipse 2009" coverage.   

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-68088673807769916922009-07-21T22:55:00.003-05:002009-07-21T23:02:42.309-05:00

I was going to leave this story on CNN and the other major news outlets, but after reading some of the asinine comments posted on one of my favorites blogs, I felt compelled to write something – anything – about what Henry Louis Gates, Jr. must have experienced late last week. That ignorant, racist, hostile mentality that showed through those posts is very likely what led to that very incident,

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-72778495988759940682009-07-21T17:09:00.001-05:002009-07-21T17:09:04.845-05:00

The Times-Picayune is reporting that one of the defense attorneys for Mose Jefferson is asking a federal judge to allow him to leave Jefferson's employ due to the possibility of legal fees not being paid. To read the story, click here. Photo courtesy of www.wwltv.com

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-35080700673191341242009-07-21T16:06:00.001-05:002009-07-21T16:06:49.836-05:00

The Associated Press has secured a report from an "independent" source which claims Sarah Palin may have secured private donations to cover her legal debts. Click here to read a story printed on WDSU's website. DISCLAIMER: This contains a link to a story found on www.wdsu.com.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-3398585550927762632009-07-21T08:25:00.001-05:002009-07-21T08:25:05.662-05:00

The major news agencies are reporting this morning that Chris Brown apologized for his role in the Rihanna assault incident. OK, now what? Will he begin behaving like an adult? A civil adult? I seriously doubt it.Why should anyone care? This is just another version of Celebrities Gone Wild. Most of them are used to manipulating the system for personal gain. Once again, the fact that

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-4859045735871505822009-07-20T21:27:00.006-05:002009-07-20T22:11:42.460-05:00

If you believe what Hindu scholars are predicting for later this week, then you probably think that the world is going to spin off of its axis around the time the solar eclipse takes place.The solar eclipse is supposed to be the longest one in the 21st century and will be visible the longest over India and China. Indian astronomers are predicting violence and mayhem as a result of the eclipse.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-82246653364172546352009-07-20T09:22:00.001-05:002009-07-20T09:22:57.864-05:00

Michael Vick is now free to resume his career in professional sports. To read more about this, please click this link: http://blog.nola.com/saintsbeat/2009/07/michael_vicks_legal_sentence_e.html.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-20278883801737492722009-07-19T21:01:00.000-05:002009-07-19T21:01:18.021-05:00

Nelsan Ellis the Man Inside Lafayette

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-65737253992968567952009-07-16T14:28:00.001-05:002009-07-16T14:28:57.002-05:00

I came across an interesting article today written by New Orleans resident Clifford Bryan on www.examiner.com. Mr. Bryan wrote about an idea that a congressman had that would basically require Congress to enact a healthcare plan for the American people. The catch is that Congress would have to have the same healthcare plan. I couldn't think of a better incentive to make sure they take care of

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-64719182370613731002009-07-15T21:09:00.009-05:002009-07-15T21:44:32.326-05:00

On July 27, 2009, a newly created ten member panel will meet to discuss looking into ways to cut Louisiana state government and to eliminate some state programs. Democratic Senator Joel Chaisson, II will call the first meeting of the commission created by Senate Bill 261; the bill became effective this past Friday when Governor Jindal signed it. The new law calls for the panel to make its

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-14998785317392064532009-07-15T17:47:00.001-05:002009-07-15T17:47:56.691-05:00

You have to be kidding me . . . New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley is in Australia this week for "The Australian Police & Emergency Services Leadership Summit 2009". Riley is one of the "2009 Expert Speakers". Apparently, Huckleberry Hound & the Scooby Doo Crew were unavailable. I am curious as to what topic he will be speaking about – could it be his vast knowledge of how to stand

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-17752702463609299382009-07-14T21:01:00.002-05:002009-07-14T21:16:41.900-05:00

Mark just showed me a really great rendition of Toto's Africa. For those of you who remember the early 80's, that was one of the biggest hits. Perpetuum Jazzile is one of those groups you just do not come across very often. Check out their website when you get a chance. You will not be disappointed. Here are some of the covers they perform in the most unique of ways: "Africa" by Toto; A

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-9258381669125805232009-07-14T20:07:00.004-05:002009-07-14T20:48:22.671-05:00

Yahoo Finance is reporting that Bernard "Bernie" Madoff will be residing in one of the nation's cushiest federal prisons. The Devil You Say! I'll be honest folks - I sure didn't see that coming. For those of you who have never had the true Arlene experience, that's sarcasm. It's been obvious since the beginning of the so-called investigation that would be where he was headed. In fact, he

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-28517296098222174452009-07-14T15:03:00.001-05:002009-07-14T15:03:41.615-05:00

Here is a link to the article I just wrote for TrueBloodNet: http://truebloodnet.com/fans-journey-bon-temps/. Enjoy

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-60746938357762555102009-07-14T09:35:00.001-05:002009-07-14T09:35:19.216-05:00

I wrote an article last night for the #1 True Blood fan site, http://www.truebloodnet.com. It should post later today & once it is displayed on the site, I will provide a link. Stay tuned this week for interesting interviews, photos & extras about the filming of Season 2, Episode 10 in Clinton, Louisiana this past weekend!

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-43413702601163732132009-07-13T12:50:00.001-05:002009-07-13T12:50:37.016-05:00

I had a great weekend in Clinton, Louisiana watching the filming of True Blood. I was able to experience a lot of the "behind the scenes" activity in the course of doing so and I will be writing an article for not only my Examiner site and this blog, but for http://www.truebloodnet.com. Keep checking back and I will post the link as soon as I have it.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-59518696749350624712009-07-10T12:48:00.001-05:002009-07-10T12:48:35.849-05:00

Each time I come across an interesting blog, I subscribe to it. I recently came across this one in a mailing from BeliefNet. It contains a series of Psalms to help with depression & anxiety & can be found at this link: http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Christianity/2009/06/Psalms-for-Depression.aspx.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-80773703939328095712009-07-09T14:06:00.001-05:002009-07-09T14:06:34.682-05:00

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Victoria "Vicki" Crawford, please contact me at my email address (arnell70508@yahoo.com) or please comment on this post with your contact information. Ms. Crawford has been missing for nearly two months and her family misses her dearly. Her parents are desperately searching for her and need information that will lead to locating Vicki. She was last known to

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-67345452630935252462009-03-05T21:45:00.005-06:002009-03-05T21:50:40.854-06:00

South Louisiana artist Suzy Bridwell offers unique talent that translate into even more unique abstract art. These photos are just a few samples of her work, however pictures alone cannot do her work justice. This is one of those "you have to see for yourself" things. Her work has been exhibited all over the map. Check it out for yourself.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-84937325869821203412009-03-03T12:50:00.000-06:002009-03-03T12:51:50.798-06:00

After returning from my weekend trip to visit my parents in East Feliciana Parish, I was so frustrated with everything that I just sat down and cried. Mark was so upset, that he nearly cried with me – and may have when I left the room – I really cannot be sure. We have all been watching my mom go through pure hell with the paraplegia that resulted from the MRSA (staph) infection from 2008. She

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-14718395785853850892009-01-21T22:25:00.003-06:002009-01-21T22:28:09.479-06:00

For all of my readers looking to purchase property in or relocate to the State of Texas, there is only one realtor you need to contact. She is there to get the job done!

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-30551991556545645802009-01-21T22:02:00.003-06:002009-01-21T22:10:52.797-06:00

Good evening, Readers. I just wanted to say thank you again for all of your kind words and support and for helping me increase my readership tenfold. I knew that New Orleans' crime fascinated a few, but I had no idea how many were truly interested. Thanks again and please, keep reading the posts from the New Orleans Crime Examiner.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-60071005245027862932009-01-21T19:42:00.002-06:002009-01-21T19:44:33.444-06:00

It has been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. This satellite photo of yesterday's inauguration speaks volumes. Countless words. Photo is courtesy of www.examiner.com

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-60134267987904877932009-01-20T17:59:00.013-06:002009-01-21T08:38:39.910-06:00

TODAY WAS TRULY A DAY that will go down in history as one that was a long time coming. Throughout the election's ups and downs, we proved, as American citizens, that nothing can hold us back from our dreams. No woman, no minority can be held back any longer.Not only did today go down in the annals of history as the day the first African-American president was sworn in, but it also served as proof

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-41833281602614246822009-01-15T10:10:00.005-06:002009-01-15T10:19:25.359-06:00

I would like to take time to thank all of you for your well wishes and I would also like to thank The Examiner for bringing me on board so that my message may be heard by a much larger audience. I am the new New Orleans Crime Examiner and I believe perhaps through that position, I will be able to facilitate some dialogue on what needs to be done with the city and state, in terms of quelling

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-50369369989482561412009-01-12T23:19:00.005-06:002009-01-12T23:40:47.055-06:00

My dad told me a long time ago that you have one good pet in your lifetime and that my luck had already run out in that area. I believed that until I got Shiloh, a beautiful Calico who was a loyal companion for many years. I lost Shiloh in what I will only refer to as "The Burger King Incident". Just don't ask - you're better off not knowing because if you knew, then I'd have to . . . well, you

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-43483301622551658352009-01-12T23:05:00.005-06:002009-01-12T23:14:36.675-06:00

I spend a great deal of time on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com). In my time "twittering", I have come across quite a few interesting folks. Some of these interesting folks are local, some are worldwide and one of those hails from Miami, Florida. He is an artist & website founder named Kiki Valdes. I am impressed by not only his talented hand as it creates unique art, but also by the attitude

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-40775977537310846812009-01-11T19:15:00.003-06:002009-01-11T19:22:15.445-06:00

Mark and I recently sent a blog note to Anderson Cooper of CNN's Anderson Cooper 360. He has been somewhat of a hero of mine since I began following his reporting during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. He was not an ambush type reporter, but he had a way of leading our local politicians into a snare - one that we knew they should have been led into a long time ago. Both of us have followed him ever

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-61739846196221184142009-01-11T18:45:00.003-06:002009-01-11T18:49:52.214-06:00

It figures that not even five hours after I post something about how we here in South Louisiana have not experienced winter-like weather, the temperature drops below to an unseasonably cool number. Now I just need to say, I never win the lottery. Maybe that'll work in my favor ...

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-42461102651769880512009-01-11T18:18:00.005-06:002009-01-11T18:41:10.327-06:00

It is not often that I recommend a movie to the masses, or even that I recommend a movie to anyone, for that matter. Gran Torino (new Clint Eastwood flick) is one of the best I have ever seen. Without giving away the premise, let me just say that everyone needs to see it. It has terrific social commentary from a character that reminds me so much of my dad that it's ridiculous. I can't say enough

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-75932231791514702432009-01-10T23:55:00.002-06:002009-01-10T23:58:07.984-06:00

I've completely given up on having another snow like these photos show (from back in December) and I've almost given up on waiting on it to even get cold here again. Seems we very seldom ever have winter weather anymore.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-3206152719520128532009-01-10T23:08:00.004-06:002009-01-10T23:21:49.674-06:00

Familyfæm ə li,ˈfæm liShow Spelled Pronunciation [fam-uh-lee, fam-lee]noun, plural -lies, adjective –noun 1. parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not.2. the children of one person or one couple collectively: We want a large family. 3. the spouse and children of one person: We're taking the family on vacation next week. 4. any group of persons closely

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-34605114267299747992009-01-10T22:49:00.004-06:002009-01-10T23:06:33.142-06:00

It's time to get back down to this size and I fully intend to make it happen. Consider these my goal photos. You will never, ever see my hair like this again, unless somebody puts me in a time machine and sends me back to 1989, but you will see me close to this size again.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-76548665797262284142009-01-10T22:02:00.005-06:002009-01-10T23:26:59.215-06:00

The year - 1989. The place - all over the place, actually. The names have been changed to protect the innocent (well actually, the guilty, but humor me and just go with it). Never before or since Thelma and Louise were there two rascally women like this. In fact, we will call the characters Thelma (we won't mention any names, but Cynt, you know who you are) and Louise (I'm Louise). Boy were

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-40017528947599658922009-01-10T18:28:00.005-06:002009-01-10T19:05:00.325-06:00

I found some old photos from the 70's & 80's today so I scanned them in and uploaded them to Facebook. That should give people something to laugh at this weekend. Just in case you are bored, check these out.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-5864125860821795962009-01-09T08:03:00.007-06:002009-01-09T12:40:47.033-06:00

It was a relatively uneventful trip to work this morning, despite the heavy fog and hazardous roadway conditions. I am trying to begin my weekend on a positive note, but first, I want to share just a few things I have come to realize in recent years. You may not agree, but that is alright - I know these things to be true and I base these on personal experience. Here goes: - JEALOUSY/

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-83627093146853871452009-01-08T21:31:00.002-06:002009-01-10T18:36:09.528-06:00

For the third time this month, a local Methodist preacher has fallen ill. First, Rev. Lorris Wimberly had a stroke, for which he is still hospitalized and undergoing active treatment. Rev. Byron Aucoin is scheduled to undergo bypass surgery in the very near future and we just received word that the husband of a Northshore pastor is ill and hospitalized this evening. We ask for prayers for each

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-63071119459301549262009-01-08T08:52:00.002-06:002009-01-08T09:00:00.758-06:00

So my first post of the day is going to start out a little something like this:Dear Road Crew, Are you stupid? Did you fall on your head? Are you smoking crack? No? Well, what’s the problem? You took a perfectly hot mess and made it hotter. Where is your common sense? Signed, Taxpayer Fed Up On StupidityYou may want to reference my first post from yesterday before reading any further –

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-27087691414469518332009-01-07T22:38:00.005-06:002009-01-10T19:10:28.594-06:00

Let’s be real about this. We are living in a time of economic uncertainty, financial strain, credit crunches, and the like. This is a bleak period financially for most of us, to say the least. In the grander scheme of things, we may not being doing as badly as what we perceive, but certainly our country seems worse off than it did five years ago. Honestly, a lot of us are cheap by nature to begin

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-87286253783111102772009-01-07T15:21:00.007-06:002009-01-08T10:41:00.467-06:00

Here is a link to a blog written by my friend, Ms. Lori Guillory: http://www.lorig69-theworldaccordingtolori.blogspot.com Some new & interesting things will soon be added so please, continue to follow her as she takes you on a journey through her world - which I might add, is quite interesting. There is a lot "up" in her world and those are all good and positive things. We like to call Ms.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-48888884710643911302009-01-07T09:21:00.001-06:002009-01-07T09:29:06.494-06:00

For those of you in Lafayette, Louisiana, maybe you can confirm for me the identity of the mental giant who decided to close off an entire lane of University Avenue (between Evangeline Thruway and Pinhook Road) with about three feet of warning. The idiotic antics of our local governments never seem to amaze me. I kid you not when I say I left the light on the east side of the Thruway and

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-68199000494145715492009-01-06T23:10:00.006-06:002009-01-10T18:34:01.262-06:00

"We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, 'I love God,' yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen." – 1 John 4:19-20 I am calling it a day & I will be turning in shortly, but before I do, I want to make a quick post and ask everybody if we can just play nicely. Life is short. We need to make

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-23742793734793651502009-01-06T22:47:00.003-06:002009-01-06T22:50:58.443-06:00

Congratulations to #1 seated Northside High School Vikings (Upper Lafayette, Louisiana). http://www.theadvertiser.com/article/20090106/SPORTS/901060318/1006http://www.theadvertiser.com/article/20090106/SPORTS/901060328/1006http://www.theadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200990106027

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-74635800567357765132009-01-06T20:56:00.003-06:002009-01-06T21:01:29.343-06:00

On New Year's Eve, I promised myself that I would create a "workout room" in my home. For once, I kept a promise to myself by doing just that. I spent almost all of New Year's Day moving things around and setting up the room. I have had the equipment for some time - some very high quality equipment - but I had never put it to use. I joined a gym, which did not pan out when my mother fell ill. A

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-8053833107144000092009-01-06T20:31:00.002-06:002009-01-06T20:33:49.839-06:00

“The 22-year-old man killed early Thursday in a police shootout was wounded 14 times, with 12 of the bullets hitting him in the back of his body, Orleans Parish Coroner Frank Minyard said.” This is an excerpt from an article appearing in the The Times-Picayune on January 2, 2009. N.O.P.D. brass are claiming their officers, including several who reportedly were working undercover, fired on and

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-46503758548314767702009-01-06T09:11:00.005-06:002009-01-06T09:16:35.471-06:00

This was just too good not to share. I believe every year about this time, someone begins circulating an e-mail regarding "The Darwin Awards". My aunt forwarded one to me this morning and this was just too funny (or should I say scary?) not to post. Here goes:Yes, it's that magical time of year again when the Darwin Awards arebestowed, honoring the least evolved among us.Here are the glorious

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-15658672498877883552009-01-06T08:51:00.001-06:002009-01-06T08:51:14.343-06:00

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-9457358573208228532009-01-01T22:48:00.003-06:002009-01-01T22:51:36.535-06:00

For once, we did something for ourselves - something we promised ourselves we would do at the beginning of the year. I am now the proud owner of a "new" workout room. We will see how it goes, but my plans are to get up just before the crack of dawn tomorrow, to begin using all of the equipment. I will keep you posted how my exercise routine is working out, and I will keep you apprised of any

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-28426993653250151042008-12-31T13:04:00.005-06:002008-12-31T13:14:08.350-06:00

This may very well be my last post as this very eventful and chaotic year comes to a close. Though I am not certain if I will have an opportunity to post anything else this afternoon or evening, I wanted to make sure that I leave you with words of wisdom and experience. You never know when angels are among you and you never know whose world you have brightened with so much as a smile or however

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-60361220271424644182008-12-29T22:17:00.006-06:002008-12-29T22:50:43.258-06:00

What's that you ask? What do I think is going to happen with gas prices? In a phrase - through the roof. My prediction? The second it can go back up, it absolutely will do so. While it might be true that we have had a momentary break from ridiculously high gas prices, do not hold your breath that prices will not return to their pre-election high. The only reason prices dropped anywhere near $2.00

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-56976928368750807622008-12-28T18:43:00.002-06:002008-12-28T18:48:50.470-06:00

What is so hard about obeying a STOP sign? I mean, when you think about it, it really is not that difficult. It says the word "Stop" on it. The dictionary defines the word "Stop" as "to cease, to quit, to discontinue." What's so difficult about that?Each day, I witness at the very least 2-3 incidents of people blatantly running stop signs. I am not referring to what is commonly known as "the

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-56734458060174358082008-12-28T18:34:00.002-06:002008-12-28T18:39:54.040-06:00

This has certainly been a year, to put it mildly. 2008 was a very stressful year for me that brought on quite a few life changing events. Things will never quite be the same for me, or for many around me. I look forward to 2009 and the joys and challenges that it will bring, but most of all, I look forward to the good times that I just know must be in store for all of us.I hope we all begin the

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-18550550773459253562008-12-26T16:32:00.005-06:002008-12-26T20:31:24.066-06:00

Wow, what a day! I awoke early this morning so I could have breakfast with my mom at the nursing home. We ate in her room and had a delicious, quiet, calming meal. I left around 9 a.m. and did some grocery shopping for my dad and picked up a few items for my mom, before returning to have lunch with her. Let me just say, that was quite an experience. ALL HECK HAD BROKEN LOOSE BY THIS POINT IN THE

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-65215683687779758022008-12-25T07:53:00.003-06:002008-12-25T16:35:27.887-06:00

Well, here we are. The big day has finally arrived. Taylor, Hunter and Austin (my niece and nephews) are opening the gifts that Santa delivered to them just a few hours ago. The aroma of food is traveling from the kitchen to the home office where I am currently engrossed in a cross between internet surfing and Christmas morning blogging. Everyone is remembering what this special time REALLY means

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-68007656916403895822008-12-23T22:26:00.007-06:002009-01-10T18:32:42.973-06:00

This is going to be one strange Christmas, to say the least. At this time last year, and even in early May of this year, my mom was still the vibrant, well spoken, intelligent being that she has always been. Right around Christmas last year, she found 2 "suspicious" sites on her arm. She thought nothing of them at first, until they began to bother her. Still thinking nothing of it, but being

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-15325094952418168052008-12-23T10:59:00.003-06:002008-12-25T16:36:18.162-06:00

Merry Christmas to all who peruse my blog. I hope each and every one of you have a great holiday season and I wish you nothing but the best. Tell your loved ones how much you love them, because you never know when that chance could be taken away in an instant.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-61316735887037055472008-12-23T10:53:00.001-06:002008-12-23T10:53:32.830-06:00

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-65926391010976845662008-12-22T13:38:00.000-06:002008-12-22T13:42:18.876-06:00

For those of you who read my post from yesterday, I was making wisecracks about how I needed to join a Twitters Anonymous group and such. Little did I know, there actually is such a group: http://twittgroups.com/group/twittersanon

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-35430781995067677132008-12-22T09:35:00.000-06:002008-12-22T13:52:06.922-06:00

I have despised the cable television services offered in Lafayette Parish (Louisiana) since the day I moved here. At that time, TCA Cable out of Tyler, Texas was the provider. It was overpriced and the channel lineup was awful, compared to most of the other parts of the state. Citizens in Lafayette Parish were being taken advantage of by TCA, as it was the "only game in town". If you are from

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-63295782331746695552008-12-22T08:35:00.000-06:002008-12-22T08:39:44.439-06:00

Well, guys, if any of you read one of my posts from Saturday, you know that I was complaining about the unseasonably warm weather (and "ickiness"). I take that back, at least for now. Only in South Louisiana can you go to bed on a Saturday night with the temperature being 74 degrees with 90 some percent humidity and wake up at 7:00 a.m. on a Sunday with 35 mph wind gusts and temperatures

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-13384906150846652762008-12-21T16:41:00.001-06:002008-12-24T13:23:33.569-06:00

. . . I am addicted to Twitter. For those of you out there who have witty "Twitter Friends" who always send snappy comebacks - or photos and cartoons - you should be able to muster up some sympathy for me. It won't be long & you may see me at a meeting holding up a candle saying, "My name is Arlene and . . ." Oh, you get the picture. I don't know what the fascination is, but there's

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-16152095496206267372008-12-21T00:51:00.001-06:002008-12-21T00:51:33.472-06:00

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-57638659138470032952008-12-20T21:43:00.000-06:002008-12-20T22:39:46.894-06:00

On this date in 1803 (December 20TH), France turned over the City of New Orleans to the U.S. in a now famous ceremony that was held at The Cabildo. This was an integral part of what is now known as “The Louisiana Purchase”. This day in history was truly historic, in so many different ways. At that time, New Orleans was on the brink of becoming one of the most important ports and trade cities

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-50430147623455959002008-12-20T20:23:00.000-06:002008-12-20T20:24:40.002-06:00

I would like to ask everyone to visit Lori G's site: http://lorig69-theworldaccordingtolori.blogspot.com/She will certainly have some interesting and insightful posts in the near future. I would like to welcome her to the blogs.

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-14171630163171555062008-12-20T15:03:00.000-06:002008-12-20T15:17:36.332-06:00

This is dedicated to Brian T. Davis, to Margo Simien, to Murphy James "Jody" Olivier, Jr., to Billy Smith, & to my mother. "When we have done all the work we were sent to do, we are allowed to shed our bodies, which imprison our soul like a cocoon encloses the butterfly and when the time is right, we can let go of it. Then we will be free of pain, free of fear, and free of worry - free as a

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-76780395528326739582008-12-20T14:39:00.001-06:002008-12-20T14:41:49.972-06:00

My aunt sent me this via e-mail a few minutes ago & it was just too cute not to share: As a trucker stops for a red light, a blonde catches up. She jumps out of her car, runs up to his truck, and knocks on the door. The trucker lowers the window, and she says "Hi, my name is Heather and you are losing some of your load." The trucker ignores her and proceeds down the street. When the truck stops

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-32792227484200245462008-12-20T11:57:00.001-06:002008-12-20T12:00:07.880-06:00

While most of the rest of this country is under some sort of Winter Storm Warning or at the very least, experiencing somewhat cool weather, South Louisiana is once again experiencing near 100% humidity and ickiness (new word, people). Normally, this would not be shocking, but we are 5 days pre-Christmas. Is it too much to ask for normal, winterlike weather? Please tell me that it's not . . .

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-42821323920096396692008-12-20T10:55:00.000-06:002008-12-20T14:15:10.918-06:00

Dear Sir,Do you really think that your blitz of e-mails are going to eventually wear me down enough to fall for the okeydoke? That is, do you honestly believe that one day I will lose my faculties, forget everything I have been taught and have learned, and that I will send you my checking or savings account number? Come on now, Mr. Foreigner sitting in an Internet cafè somewhere overseas. I know

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-91946761340599552752008-12-20T09:59:00.000-06:002008-12-20T10:02:15.907-06:00

Misfortune is a part of life. “Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.” Job 14:1We don’t like adversity. We don’t choose misfortune. And we certainly don’t welcome problems. Financial troubles ruin lives. Sickness and disease cause early death. Family dysfunction inflicts lifelong pain and suffering. Talk shows make millions airing the misfortune of people all over the

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-27082911549160866132008-12-20T09:46:00.000-06:002008-12-20T09:51:30.206-06:00

Am I the only one to notice the striking resemblance between most modern day employers and the Pharisees of Egypt? How so many are so busy worshipping themselves and their possessions and are busily amassing more and more material objects, rather than focusing on the things in life that are most important?Granted, businesses are “in business” to turn a profit, but could most of them not be much

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8196106751148559097.post-24732668640734940872008-12-20T09:42:00.000-06:002008-12-20T09:43:15.787-06:00

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” - Isaiah 4:14 (NIV)As I prepared to make out my “list” of gifts I would like to give to various loved ones this Christmas, the words of Isaiah 7:14 came to mind. Is it not truly wonderful to know that God sent his only son for us; that he prepared for a long

Arlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02729244247944436229noreply@blogger.com0