I get a little sicker each time.....

There has been such a rash of parents absolutely abusing their children.

A woman in Boston, was arrested for hitting her 1 year old child so hard he bled from his mouth. Prior to hitting him, she actually called him a racial slur! Are you kidding me?!?!

Poor little Celina Cass...who you know passed at the hands of her stepfather. Clearly the state is being quiet about their information so that they don't jeopardize the case. Trust me - the story will come out on that one.

Or the father in Malden who slammed with brute force his 7 week old infant onto the ground.

Or the father in Boston who also slammed his 3 week old infant to the ground.

Where is the justice system when we need it...???

So very sad...

So, I'm hoping that this will be my last post on Casey Anthony for this week.

I was happy to see that she wasn't able to leave jail today; it was a tiny battle victory in a war that has been lost. I know that a week from now she will be free, but it still was a good thing to see her reaction when she realized she wasn't going anywhere today. It was just a tiny pop in her balloon.

I'm very sad about the way people are villianizing her family; first of all - show me a family that isn't "dysfunctional" and I'll show you a group of mannequins. Every family has their dynamics and histories and behaviours that aren't perfect, and to tear this family apart because they're under scrutiny in the worst of situations - I think is just horrible. To hear stories that her parents might have not been very kind to her after Caylee was born - well, wouldn't most parents be irritated with their child who doesn't work and relies on them to take care of her and a baby? I'm thinking there might be some resentment there.... not so "dysfunctional" - at least no more so than a family thinking that it's perfectly okay to just coast through life. Or thinking it's okay to steal hundreds of checks and thousands of dollars from family members and friends. All this time I was thinking that they were too nice to her, and in reality maybe they were trying tough love - and that's what made her spiteful and take Caylee away. I don't mean killing her - I mean taking her from the house which is what triggered all of this anyway. Doesn't anyone remember that Casey left the house a month previously with Caylee and refused to let her mother see her? Does anyone remember that Cindy begged her to leave Caylee with her so she could go do her own thing when she wanted to? I wish the Prosecution focused more on the dynamic between Casey & Cindy in the parenting aspect -rather than just physical evidence - and maybe it would've painted a more rounded picture of the volatile personality that the jurors were dealing with. It was more than just Casey's relationship with Caylee; it was Casey's relationship with everyone - and how she manipulated, controlled and lied. That is the underlying path in this poor girl's death - accidental or otherwise.

I find it so sad that post verdict jurors have come out and said they know she's guilty but didn't feel that without knowing "how" she died, they could convict her. I'm sorry but you can't play Monday morning quarterback now. Listen, I've said it before - and I'll say it again. Does it matter if they're shot, stabbed or suffocated? Bottom line is a person is dead that clearly isn't natural causes with evidence to support it. How can that be ignored? I've never heard of so many people discussing Double Jeopardy as much as they are with this case. So many people feel that this wasn't the right decision.

I guess the bottom line is that I'm just so sad about this in general. I'm not irate; I'm not irrational about it. I just find it so sad that a jury completely disregarded physical evidence seconded by corroborating circumstantial evidence - and went with a theory that had zero evidence, admittedly. And yet, their decision will stand because that is our justice system. Even if her death was initially accidental, no matter what the means - the actions that followed were anything but accidental, and aggravated manslaughter should've been the verdict. And ask yourself this jurors: Why wasn't 911 called?? Because it wasn't an accident.... at least not the accident you'd like to think it was. It was accidental overdose by chloroform which she knew she would have to explain.... the duct tape and what not - I'm sure that was initially to make it look like a kidnapping. Truly, Casey's not that tough to figure out...

Just my humble opinion.....

The aftermath....

So, of course it's almost impossible to have the television on and not hear about Caylee Anthony.

What disturbs me most is that the jury completely disregarded all the evidence and clearly had their minds made up prior to deliberation. One alternate juror even came out and said that he knows something happened to Caylee and that they chose not to convict because "the family is dysfunctional and knows more than they're letting on.".

1. What family isn't dysfunctional at some level?
and 2. Of course they KNEW Casey did it....we ALL know it -- its just none of us can know exactly what happened. Of course her parents knew - they did all that they could to get it out of her. They cried, they begged, they bribed, they threatened. But they didn't cover it up for her -and for the jury to NOT convict based strictly on the fact that they feel the family is involved when there is zero evidence to point to that - is a complete and total miscarriage of justice. That is not bravery from the jury -- it's laziness.

There will be no justice for Caylee, I don't see how. And it's absolutely gutwrenching.

A friend of mine sent the following to me. She saw it on Facebook today and doesn't know if the person wrote it themselves or copied & pasted it. But either way - it's worth sharing.

"Dear Mommy,
I see you smile down there below, why are those tears of joy you show? I'm glad you're happy, although you lied, I'd still love to be smiling right by your side. Tell my grandparents I send my love. It's beautiful here, that's all I can say. I'm happy your life will go on without me in your way. I'm glad you get to walk free. Just remember sooner or later, there will be justice for me.
Love Caylee ♥♥♥ "

Disgusted. Disturbed. Disheartened. Disbelief....

It is an incredible travesty of justice that Casey Anthony was acquitted today on all charges related to the disappearance and obvious murder of her daughter Caylee.

I watched this trial and I'm sorry - reasonable doubt was not presented; irrational, unexplained and desperate doubts were presented. But reasonable? No, I think not.

This was not a jury of MY peers that acquitted this girl; and if it was a jury of HER peers, then I pity the state of Florida and those who live within it. It speaks volumes about what you can and can not do regarding your children, or other people for that matter.

While I did not believe a Murder One, Death Penalty award was going to be given - I believed for sure that a lesser charge would. And yet this girl has been cleared on everything except for lying to police.

So, clearly in the state of Florida it's okay to have a dead body in your car for weeks on end and then deny that it was ever there - even with DNA evidence. I don't care if there is no cause of death proved because when it comes two a 2 year old child - there doesn't need to be cause because the mere fact that she's dead shows that there is some semblence of unnatural occurance that happened. If it's an accident - then you don't lie about it; and you also don't drag everyone else into it either. If it's an accident - then you state that, and that scenario only. You don't come up with various possibilities. Two year olds don't die of natural causes; so whether it's shooting, neckbreaking, or chloroform poisioning - is irrelevant. The fact you have a dead body that no one other than the Mother has access to - speaks volumes. And with DNA in the car, multiple lies and basically NO information other than misinformation with intent to mislead -- who else do you look to.

This is a very sad day in the justice system; a very sad day for the Anthony family who I think is disgusted that Caylee has received no justice -- and a very sad day for this girl, who was so emotionally invested into this case. I don't know how the State of Florida couldn't have slammed this case shut -- but I'm so very dissapointed that they weren't able to make any of the charges on the table stick. There was NO justice for this beautiful little girl.

It's shocking, and sad. And it's going to take quite a long time for me to get over this case....

God bless the beasts and the children.....

The defense attorneys for Casey Anthony should be horribly ashamed of themselves.
I don't know how they sleep at night.

Their latest efforts to place the blame on anyone BUT their client - is apalling to say the least.

Do they forget that they said that there IS a Zenaida Gonzalez that stole little Caylee? Do they forget that they tried to frame Ray Kronk, the person who found Caylee? And now they're trying to blame Casey's father for the murder?!

Do they forget that she partied for over a month before admitting her daughter was "kidnapped"? Do they forget that she told multiple lies about her whereabouts, how Caylee was "kidnapped", her employment....do they forget that during that month she lied to her parents, saying she and Caylee were together? Do they forget that she stole money from her friends to party during that time? "La Vita Dolce" - the sweet life - was the phrase tattooed while her daughter lay dead in a field.

Do they forget that it was cholorform - not chlorine - that was residiual on that beautiful baby's remains? Chloroform - which was googled on Casey's computer for home made recipes on how to make it - and use it.

The circumstantial evidence goes on, and on and on....

All I know is that justice best be served....and I hope it's served cold.

A message to my friend who's got a "sticky" sense of humor....

Karma's a bitch.
And so am I....

What goes around comes around...
....and I will get you my pretty.

"Let's roll..." Todd Beamer

Hard to believe yet another year has gone by since the tragedy of 9/11.

It's true that time heals all wounds; it's not nearly as raw of a remembrance as it was even just a few years ago. But it still has an awing impact on me, whenever I see footage of that morning. It takes my breath away every time.

Fortunately, the American spirit is strong and we bounced back far quicker than I think the perpetrators of our innocence that day had planned on. Though we easily divide on topics and people that govern our country, we always unite when others prey upon us.

I am proud to be an American; and I know that I'm fortunate and blessed to have been born here with all the freedoms and liberties that come with it.

I thought this was a little less than traditional but certainly appropo video to share for today. Budweiser, though no longer an American company - will always stand for Americana and tradition. This commerical which aired only once, was a lovely and simple tribute that I thought everyone might enjoy.

God bless the beasts and the children....

Yet another missing child case that absolutely disturbs me.
This time, Kyron Horman.

Mind you, there is no proof that his step mother was involved - but unfortunately, there's no evidence to prove otherwise.

What I don't understand, is how one person can be so hurtful to another - much less a young, and incredibly innocent child. And why? What purpose does it serve?

The horror of the atrocities played upon the young and small who can't defend themselves - is appalling; even worse, at the hands of those whom they would naturally trust - their very parents or guardians.

And they unfortunately seem to be happening more and more these days....

Let him fry, let him fry, let him fry.....

Bring back the death penalty to Massachusetts is what I say.

Yet again, a cowardly monster butchers his whole family, and he gets to be protected by bulletproof vests. Seriously? Death by sniper would be too good for him.

Absolutely despicable; I went against my better judgement and read the story online and they of course showed a beautiful photo of his two children and -- naturally they released details of the murder which is just horrible.

They say he cited "financial and marital woes"; hmmm, I'm thinking he's got far bigger problems now.

Except for the fact that now he gets three hots and a cot - and gets to live off the taxpayer's dollars. Lovely.

If we made murder punishable by death -- don't you think there'd be far less murder?
Sometimes, the seemingly less humane societies are truly the most sane.
Just sayin'..

Wrapping up the week with some randomness.....

Just a little potpourri of thoughts going around this girls head....

1. What is all this drama about Tiger for? Seriously people, get a grip. Did any of you truly think that this was a surprise? You can't be serious. Unfortunately in the realm of celebrity, it's the rule - not the exception. I'm only surprised that this is such a shock to everyone else.

2. The Sox doin' the Shortstop Swap, yet again. Why there's such an issue with this position is beyond me. I get that Orlando Cabrera was not welcome in the organization - which is so unfortunate given the fact that he's absolutely the perfect fit -- but seriously, can't we get it right just once with this position? Jed Lowrie was never the answer, but I'm not sure that Scutaro is either. I suppose only time will tell... but it's a short time. Call me crazy, but two years in a contract isn't really the answer either.

3. Now I get why stringing up the lights is such an issue at Christmas. I have a prelit tree - so that's not an issue.... and even when I had a real tree, it didn't matter - I never really had a hard time. But this morning, I was out front and hung icicle lights from my farmers porch. Well, hanging them in the store was a breeze so I figured why not? Yeah, not so much here at home mostly because I used different lights. I had bought these last season and held onto them for this season, and so I suppose I shouldn't have been too shocked when I plugged them in just to find.......they don't light up. *sighs*.

4. I get that defense attorneys have a purpose in life, however..... I have intentionally not been following the Caylee Anthony case for months now. Last year, it really had such an impact on me and it became far too emotionally draining to keep up with. Plus there are so many unsolved and heinous crimes against children that while I don't suggest turning a blind eye to them - I do know that I can't get so caught up in it all. That being said.... I find it horribly despicable that the defense for Casey Anthony is trying to malign the person who found her daughter's remains. I don't care if Ray Kronk isn't a good person in life-- it is reprehensible to try to paint a negative light on someone just to save someone else, who (in my opinion) is guilty. How can they know that a client is guilty and feel justified in being dishonest themselves to free them? Just because this person found Caylee, it doesn't erase the fact that she was missing for a month before the mother told anyone - only mentioned it under duress; lied to everyone about who "took" her when she was clearly not taken at all; lied about everything in general and stole money; searched online how to break a child's neck, and how to make choloroform and use it for drugging; her car smelled of a dead body and forensics proved a dead body had been there;the little girl was found wrapped in items that were taken from the Anthony household;and most importantly -- forensics proved that the body had not been moved from its original spot, contrary to what the defense is going to try to prove.

How these people sleep at night is beyond me. In some ways, acquiting a guilty person knowingly is almost worse than the crime they committed.

Tuesday's Thoughts....

1. What is up with the annoying pop up ads that Boston.com and Bostonherald.com have whenever you want to click on an article? Truly, if I wanted to solicit the advertisements, I’d click on the ads. It’s pretty irritating when I’m trying to read an article and a full screen Comcast ad takes over the page. Just sayin’…

2. So, I’m probably the only member of Red Sox Nation who wasn’t overly enamored with Nomar while he was here. But I do have to admit, watching him last night and his reaction to the crowd was very touching. I didn’t dislike him per se, it was more of a dislike of his disenchantment with being here; his diva-like personality at times and of course – his being injury prone. Injuries, I suppose you can’t do anything about – but personality is absolutely a choice. Sure, some may say that some of that had to do with age and maturity. That may be the case; but I know this much – it was definitely nice to see him gracious and happy in his interviews. I wasn’t at all surprised at his reception, it was sort of sad to hear that he was nervous. Boston is fiercely loyal, and though while at the time we were very ready for change at his position, there is no doubt about the contributions he had made while he was here.

3. The Tall Ships arrived into port this morning. I am really excited about this, and I am hoping to take the kids there this weekend, weather permitting of course. (yes, that dreaded rain is overtaking the forecast once again…*sighs*) I think it will be awesome for them to see, and something they will remember for quite some time to come.

4. Today is the Michael Jackson memorial and funeral. (As if anyone with a pulse didn’t know, it’s monopolizing all things “news”.) I wish I could see it, but unfortunately here at work just about everything is blocked so there’s no way for me to watch it. I would’ve liked to have DVR’d it but it would’ve taken up too much space in the memory so clearly, I will have to just watch the reviews. I have mixed feelings about it being such a public event at the Staples Center, and I suppose it’s because I’m not sure if it’s going to be a concert – or a tribute, a celebration of his artistry? I think I would prefer a more traditional type of memorial. But I’m sentimental like that.

I’ve heard quite the anti-MJ sentiment today on the airwaves today and truly – I think there’s been enough that has been said about him. Let the poor man be in peace at this point. If you don’t like him – then don’t watch it, and don’t listen to his music. No one is saying anything new or shedding additional light on the situation, so truly – enough is enough. He was childlike and odd; and yes, he brought a lot of his troubles onto himself. He is ultimately responsible for the tarnish of his reputation. But I’m sorry, he was acquitted; and the last time I knew – that meant “not guilty by a trial of peers.” (loosely translated, of course.)

The same old argument that he paid money to keep one person from pressing charges, to me – is irrelevant. As a parent – the mere fact that the family accepted it -- screams deception, dishonesty and extortion. I assure you, there is no amount of millions that would keep me quiet if my child was harmed in any way. Out of the thousands of children he impacted and spent time with – only two, and two with questionable motives and intentions – come forward? And none since his passing either? Was he eccentric and insecure? Yes. Was he unhappy? Absolutely. Was he sad, and lonely and tragic? Without a doubt. But if you can’t also acknowledge that he was an incredibly gifted artist who absolutely changed the world as a whole, as well as the world of music – then you’re clearly too high on your horse.

And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free....

Happy Independence Day.

I am thankful that I live in a country where I can disagree with my politicians without fear of reprucussion; a country where it is encouraged to think as an individual and be all that I can be.

I am proud to be an American.
And for those who aren't because the politics might not always be popular, well....
You can always leave.

I will always pledge allegiance to my flag, under everyone's God (because, God is God after all..), with justice for all (unless they are a criminal; so long as they are legally here in the country to be qualified for the due process upon which this country is based. Otherwise, their justice can be in the form of an escort out of the territory lines. Though I absolutely have compassion towards those who may be here incorrectly but are doing their damndest to make a good life and become a citizen.)

Have a fantastic day!

Questions for today....

Can you be virtually waterlogged by the fact that it has rained for 4 weeks straight?
Just wonderin'....


Who's excited about the breaking news CNN just emailed about Kevin Jonas getting engaged?
(Does everyone even know who Kevin Jonas is? And seriously, does he warrant a breaking news flash?!?)

Is anyone else as happy as I am that the state is once again reconsidering the death penalty in special circumstance cases, such as abusive torture and death to children?

Wondering where the Varitek 'naysers are now....? It's been a little quiet in the bashing section.

How sad is it that people are making such a mockery out of Michael Jackson when he's not here to defend himself. And truly, if any of the stories are indeed true - then why isn't there any compassion towards a person who clearly was not happy with himself?


When will I make it back to yoga...?

Does anyone else avoid reading the Fox News website because they always seem to have the most disturbing articles in the Crime section? It's creepy to see the inhumanity.

Will my vegetables grow without the sun...? Isn't that against the basic concept of photosynthesis which is sort of what allows plants to grow? Just sayin...'

What questions are you pondering today.....?

No more words....

So last night I watched the Larry King interview of George & Cindy Anthony.

While my heart absolutely breaks for them…they need to stay out of the media eye. It’s not good for them – it makes them appear inconsistent and not everyone is sympathetic to their cause of unconditional love. I understand it, and even I get so irritated with their lying for the cause.

Larry didn’t soft shoe this interview so much as his last one, either. George is absolutely the weak link and could provide some valuable information to the case I think. If someone spends some good time talking with him, he clearly is capable of revealing more information than Cindy is. It is absolutely eating this poor guy up – it’s all over his face. And in his words…

Larry asked them straight out if they directly interrogated Casey when she was home on bail:

G. ANTHONY: I talked to my daughter as much as I possibly could. But then again, we never got a chance to really talk to her as much because of the investigation.
C. ANTHONY: She was home. We talked to her.
G. ANTHONY: At different times, but not the way I wanted to sometimes.

And that was said, in a tone that was him suggesting that he wasn’t able to be as firm as he wanted to – we already know Leonard Padilla said everyone walked on eggshells and handled Casey with kid gloves – not even mentioning Caylee’s name while she was home. After George corrected Cindy, they both turned red – and she looked towards their attorney for assistance.

Then there were the Freudian slips by Cindy…..

KING: Do you have any idea why Caylee didn't call police all the time her daughter was missing?
C. ANTHONY: Casey?
KING: I'm sorry. There's so many Cs.
C. ANTHONY: I can't answer that. Casey was probably grieving as best as she could.

Why the need to grieve? Her daughter was missing and with the “sitter” so she said. Why would grieving ever be part of the equasion? Unless of course, she already knew what happened to Caylee. And the only way Casey would know that, would be if she was involved.

Another one, when Larry asked if they believed she wasn’t involved at all.

C. ANTHONY: We don't have proof that she didn't do it, but there's a lot of proof -- or there's a lot of evidence out there that doesn't prove that she's done it.

No proof that she didn’t – to me, speaks volumes over no evidence proving she did. There is no evidence to prove she didn’t – that’s the problem.

My personal advice to George & Cindy is to forgo the crusade to attempt to change their daughter's portrayal in the media. Let the evidence speak for themselves and have the case tried in a court of law.

They’re only making matters worse…

Thoughts for Tuesday....

1. Swing…batter, batter, batter, swing! Who’s excited to watch the Sox today? I am! Oh, and I’m sorry…..did the Yankee’s CC Sabathia not do well in their season opener? Hmmm….. I think I made a little prediction about that a few months back, no? Yes, I’m pretty sure I did. Now, I am not a fan of season predictions because there is just far too much baseball to be played – I don’t think it’s possible to make them with any accuracy as there are far too many intangibles and unforeseen possibilities; that being said, I won’t be too terribly disappointed if my very pre-season prediction comes to fruition. I’m not going to regurgitate it here for fear of jinxing the Sox (it’s all about karma, baby) – if you choose to see it, feel free to search the baseball posts.

2. So, I have to say I laughed aloud when I read the story about the Canadian woman who chose to support jihadists all over the world… and ventured to Afghanistan to support “the cause”, only to be kidnapped by those she chose to support – and then plead to her native government (whom she’s so eloquently trashed) and beg to pay the ransom money to release her so she’s not beheaded. "I need somebody to help me," she pleaded on the most recent video. "My government — the Canadian government, the Pakistan government — I want to go home." Hmmm. Yeah, I’m thinking she can take one for the team. I never thought I wouldn’t be compassionate but you know, 9/11 changed everything for me. Sorry, but like I said – it’s all about karma, baby. They were your toys – you wound them up – now, you can play with them.

3. There is a reason why I don’t read the news. Sandra Cantu’s body was discovered inside of a suitcase in a pond. Haleigh Cummings is still missing. Caylee Anthony’s mother is a monster. A psychopath lunatic in Gardener MA stabs her 2 year old 100 times and then tries to strangle her. I find that I can’t even get to the business section without having gruesome tales of abuse on young children being thrown in my face. It’s horrifying, disturbing and saddening. What is this world coming to? And then people wonder why good parents are so over protective of their children these days……

4. I can run like the wind blows….well, that would be Forrest Gump, not me. However, I did have a successful run last night. I made it to a half mile before I felt a tweak in my knee – and I was smart, rather than run through it, I stopped. Yesterday’s half mile, may be tomorrow’s mile. I’m sensing a comeback …..

5. And finally… that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. If it doesn’t happen – it wasn’t meant to be. Laugh a lot, and loudly. Love boldly. You are your greatest strength – don’t be your own worst enemy. Smile and let someone know you’re thinking of them…. Allow yourself to dream.

Monday Musings.....

As I sit here drinking my Starbucks Peppermint Mocha (with skim, no whipped - naturally), it occurred to me that while this coffee and the fruit cup I got completely hit the spot today as I'm freezing from the dreariness -- it was pretty pricey. $7.00 for a cup of coffee and about 1/8th of a pound of fruit. That's a good gig the 'Bucks has going on.

Which brings me to my thoughts for today...

1. Always go with your gut when it comes to your body. Yes, I am suffering a slight setback with my knee. Slight is the key word which I'm very happy about. He said it's only about 2-3 weeks off course for me. Seems I had this loud crack in my knee about 10 days ago now, and since then my gait has been off; I've encountered lots of discomfort and swelling -- and the swelling has been as bad as presurgery. I was very nervous about it, actually -- and Saturday was the worst it's been. So very swollen and bruised looking. However, I went to a candlelight yoga session Saturday night, convinced that I was going to overcome. Fortunately -- and oddly enough -- the swelling went down by almost half by the time class was over. So, seeing that I was relieved that it wasn't a tendon or ligament issue -- which the doctor confirmed today. Turns out it's scar tissue that broke and floated into a part of my knee that it doesn't belong in. So my knee is revolting. He said if I can add more yoga to my PT regimen it will help break it down sooner and more efficiently - and that this is a minor setback not to be concerned. So it was win/win for me. My feeling that something wasn't right was confirmed, but not serious -- and I get encouraged to do more yoga. (As if I ever needed any encouragement in that area!)

2. I don't know how a company can be so shortsighted. I found out on Friday that my daughter's Pre-K is closing on 19 June. The company that sponsors the Children's Center has deemed that it's not effective enough as a recruiting tool to keep it any longer. Mind you - this is the most fabulous children's center and private kindergarten I have ever seen. And while my daughter will be attending public kindergarten and wasn't going to be attending during the summer -- it's still such a shock to hear. All of those children will now have to be relocated; parents will need to find new arrangements -- the public schools will now have an influx of students; and how about all of the teachers and staff? The last thing this economy needs are more unemployed people added to the statistics. This company was providing not only a valueable resource to our community - but to those who attended. The facility is gorgeous - the staff is tremendous - and truly, a positive environment for all those involved. To tell the director to "sell things piecemeal if need be" is horrifying. Why not charge rent and allow the school to be a separate entity? Increase tuition if need be? They didn't even allow that option, which is such a sin. I now plan on taking my daughter out earlier than expected because I think seeing the demise of the school, and the heartbreak of the staff is something I want to spare her from.

3. There is sometimes unmistakable evil that lies within some souls. I don't think I've ever been more convinced of this than now. The story of the young monster (dare I call him "man") who killed his two sisters, decapitating one of them is unspeakable. I cannot venture to guess what he thought he was accomplishing, or why he would do something so horrific to a family member, let alone a child. It turns my stomach, and death by 4 rounds of police gun fire was far too kind of a death, in my opinion.

4. Sometimes it's the simple things to make the day seem happier. Tonight its family movie night - and we're taking the kids to see "Monsters v. Aliens", complete with dinner out after.

If that's not a great way to start the week.... I don’t know what is.

Wednesday's potpourri...

1. I am back to the yoga mat today. After many months of being inactive and void of any type of physical activity, I am going to yoga today. I am beyond excited. Next week, I'll also do another week of my vegan detox to jump start my metabolism because while I can't run just yet - doing yoga is absolutely going to get me back into the swing of things, as well as strengthen me up so that running will be a possibility sooner - rather than later. At Whole Foods this afternoon to celebrate - I bought myself some Metromint Peppermint water (my very favorite!) -- and I caved (literally!) and indulged in a good chunk of cave aged Gruyere. (See, pun clearly intended.) I tasted a small sliver at the cheese counter and loved it. So while I roast my veggies & rice for dinner tonight (no, I'm not detoxing today just going to eat lighter tonight. Of course, the half of a chocolate chip cookie I just ate doesn't qualify....) I will indulge in this amazing cheese. Ommmm...yummmm.

2. I am still riveted to the Caylee Anthony case. I'm not exactly sure why the state isn't going forward with the death penalty for Casey Anthony; the only explanation I can come up with is that there would be a higher chance of conviction without the prospect of death; she's an attractive young girl and possibly they're thinking that people would be more forgiving of her based upon outward appearances, and it's reprehensible to think that a mother would do this to a child. (Let's be honest, people are more forgiving to attractive people than to those who aren't so easy on the eyes...that's partly why celebrities get away with such poor behaviour. But I digress....)It's inexcusable to me that she has shown little to no remorse over this; even Susan Smith who to me was previously one of the most heinous criminals in a crime of this kind -- showed emotion, remorse and regret. Hyperventilation, if truly her reaction - equals fear. It does not equate to grief.

3. I can't believe how quickly my kids are growing up. This week I have to register my daughter for kindergarten. She's going to be 5 - my son is going to be 8. Where does the time go? The days of my being the center of their universes....are slowly going to leave me. Those are the times that I'm not looking forward to, at all. Well, let me rephrase that; they'll never leave me....I just won't be the most important part of their lives. They'll have their friends, and other interests. Which is normal, and natural....and what we want for them to be -- happy and well rounded and adjusted. That doesn't mean I can't feel a little sad about it....

4. Stimulus plan, shimulus scam....My latest effort in the business startup is still moving right along, which is a good thing. A great thing, actually! I just wonder how President Santa Claus plans on helping good people, with excellent credit with their small businesses? Because I haven't heard much about that in the "stimulus" plan.

Just sayin'....

Case in point....

As I went on in my last post about Michael Phelps and how he has been treated unfairly in the media as a result of his extracurricular activity on Superbowl Sunday.....news was breaking about Alex Rodriguez and his involvement in using performance enhancing drugs.

These are drugs that are not used socially, nor for the purpose of "feeling good", or any other type of descriptor that a person who uses recreational drugs might suggest.

These are drugs that are used specifically for the purpose of becoming better than what they are genetically capable of being. To cheat not only the fans of any given sport of their ability, but to cheat the sport itself.

Anyone can take a drug and become an exaggeration of who they are and the capabilities they may possess naturally; but to not take anything to enhance and exaggerate -- despite the availability to do so, and still succeed -- in my mind, is a true athlete.

Let's use the ultimate vanity sport of bodybuilding, for an example. There are body builders who are natural. Then there are those who aren't. I have far more admiration and respect for a person who can sculpt their body to a maximum muscular potential and shape by hard work, exercise and nutrition. That is a beautiful thing to see. Once they start using any type of performance enhancement drug (and yes, though body building isn't a true athletic skill - it is a performance enhancer that they use, as much of an oxymoron that might seem...) I lose the respect I had previously. To use them, is to cheat; it is to chemically enhance and re-engineer their bodies into becoming something that they aren't naturally capable of being, putting them at an unfair advantage against those who do not choose to take these kinds of enhancements.

There are many athletes in the sport of baseball who have been "caught" taken anabolic steroids and HGH - and have owned the mistake. Listen, good people make bad choices. That's a part of life. But when you have athletes that not only didn't necessarily need to use them, and then either categorically deny or choose not to address the issue when caught - leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of their fans. As well as amongst their peers, I'm sure.

Alex Rodriguez, in my personal opinion - is of poor character, period. This latest release of information does not come as a surprise to me. It isn't even a disappointment any longer. He cheated on his wife numerous times. He cheated this last time very publicly with a woman who was married at the time. (This doesn’t make Madonna any better, but truly - we expect that of her anyway.) He attempted to cheat in baseball during a crucial game. He has made Bush League attempts in thwarting other teams from winning. We are not talking about a "good person who made a bad choice". We are talking about someone with little integrity, and no respect for boundaries or rules.

The unfortunate part of it all, is that he a naturally gifted person. He didn't need to have to use these drugs. There are some players who truly have shortcomings and may have felt the need to use in an effort to stay on their game. This does not ring true for one of the most talented baseball players in recent years. And to me, if he was to come forward and even try to use that as an excuse as to why he used - to this girl, it would fall on deaf ears. It sounds like an excuse, not an apology.

Most importantly, and I think this is a piece of the puzzle that quite often gets overlooked - these players are cheating themselves and their families - of their lives. These athletes will bald faster, age quicker, develop potential kidney and or heart disease - or even worse, potentially induce a cancerous growth. It is not healthy to consume chemicals to modify DNA, or products created for animals into the human body for no reason other than to accentuate and accelerate muscular potential and strength.

It is a shame that this is what athletes feel they need to do to their bodies in order to be competitive -- and the message that it is sending to children who look up to these players is just all wrong.

But that's just this girl's opinion.
*****
Edited, 2:44pm:
Alex Rodriguez has confirmed during an interview this afternoon with ESPN's Peter Gammons that he used performance-enhancing drugs from 2001-03 while a member of the Texas Rangers.

"I was young, I was stupid, I was naive, and I wanted to prove to everyone that I was worth . . . being one of the greatest players of all time," Rodriguez told Gammons in an interview recorded this afternoon. "I did take a banned substance and for that I am very sorry and deeply regretful."

As I said....I'm throwing the BS card on that.
Excuses, PR spin and saving face.
A cheat is a cheat is a cheat.

It isn't what you don't know...but what you do know - that can kill you.

I am heartsick for the Anthony family.
Absolutely heartsick.

The latest in this tragedy is that little Caylee's grandfather, George Anthony -- left a 5 page note indicating that he did not want to live any longer. The weight of knowing that his daughter intentionally killed his beautiful granddaughter, and without regret lied to everyone all of this time - clearly is too much for him. Of course, this is just my guess as to what is contained in that letter but I venture to guess I'm not far off the mark.

And who can blame him?

The evidence that keeps coming out is overwhelmingly pointing towards premeditated murder. I'm sure in his heart of hearts, he was well aware that his daughter was behind this; but like most of us you hope beyond all hope that at the worst it was accidental and she was scared. Publicly you staunchly defend them because as a parent - that is what you do. You can forgive an accident. But how do you forgive predication, premeditation and lack of remorse not only for the one that was lost - but for the ones left behind. As a parent, I can't imagine how that must feel knowing that your child - whom you loved and did as best as you could by them -- could be capable of an act such as the one that this apparently has turned out to be.

I wrote the Anthony's a letter, about two weeks before they found little Caylee's remains. I wrote it for them, but truthfully - I wrote it just as much for myself. I am so saddened by this case, and just felt the need to reach out to them. I know that they more than likely didn't read it, but maybe they did? Maybe for just a second, I was able to provide them a bit of compassion -- which I'm guessing must be very difficult for them to obtain in this incredibly judgemental and hypocritical society.

This was a regular family -- that has been completely destroyed not only by the horrible act of violence that has thrust them into the public eye - but also by the intense scrutiny and analysis of that eye. They are ordinary people, in a horribly extraordinary circumstance. One that I wouldn't wish upon anyone.

I have a feeling that with George Anthony being hospitalized and under watch, along with whatever this letter contains -- we are going to find that there is going to be very little mystery left to this case for the defense to justify or try to create. This may very well cause the Defense to change their plea to guilty in an effort to avoid bringing the death penalty back on the table.

That's my hope at least.

Game Over....

According to reports last night, Casey Anthony needed to be sedated after learning that a bag of bones containing a small child was located near her home.

I bet she did.

Interesting to compare how she had little to no reaction when a bag containing bones was found three weeks ago; of course, that is because she knew that wasn't her daughter. She knew where she had left that little girl - and that river, wasn't the location.

I am holding out hope that the state will bring the death penalty back on the table. It seems that reports from law enforcement are suggesting that a piece of duct tape was placed around the mouth of the child that was found.

Tape around a mouth means "Shut up. Be quiet." Tape around the mouth means that she could've potentially drugged her with chloroform to sedate her, then taped her to keep her quiet should she wake up. An accident by an irresponsible, foolish mother. But then, the question would be posed...why not remove the tape to try to resuscitate the child if she's unresponsive? Accidental death? I think not...

No, this evidence of tape clearly shows malice and forethought. Combined with Google searches she made that corroborate all the evidence found thus far, the case is clearly a Murder in the First Degree that would warrant the death penalty.

When I heard the news, I had such a mix of emotions; immediate sadness because even though I knew she was gone, it's difficult not to hold out a shred of hope. Though this was the news I had been longing for so that she could be at rest - my heart was very heavy. Excitement came next because I just could not believe the fact that this baby was found so close to home, and curiosity had me wondering why she wasn't found sooner - though it was abundantly evident that it had to do with the water levels. Finally anger and hostility settled in, this little girl being so "close to home" all this time... with duct tape around her mouth. Casey Anthony had a shred of truth in all of her lies, didn't she....

Again, my heart goes out to the Anthony family as a whole because this is a devastating situation that no family should ever have to go through; I just hope now they can see the situation for what it is, and unfortuantely embrace the fact that their daughter not only killed her beautiful, innocent daughter -- but destroyed their entire family.