Sunday, January 6, 2013

Biggest Loser Kids: The new cast features three overweight teens


In a surprise move, the acclaimed reality show The Biggest Loser, which premiered tonight, has for the first time added kids to their cast. Bingo, age 13, Lindsay, also 13, and Sunny, age 16, are part of the cast this season. The show promises to tackle childhood obesity with the addition of the three kids. Fortunately, Biggest Loser films in Calabasas in California, protected by California's well-received child labor laws for reality shows. By law, a parent or guardian, and a set teacher, will need to be at the ranch when the children are there.

The Biggest Loser changed a few things to accommodate the kids. They can't be voted off, and they won't participate in the famous, sometimes demoralizing, weekly weigh-ins. They appear to be thus far more like a smaller side story parallel to the main contestants, the adults. 

The move has not been without controvesy, however. Fitness guru and author Golda Poretsky says the show encourages bullying of overweight children, and physician Yoni Freedhoff is calling for an all-out boycott. Said Dr. Freedhoff
"I would imagine that the psychological devastation of weight regain in any of these children will be far more damaging to them, and far more likely to be ridiculed by their peers and even complete strangers, than regain in any adult participant. As far as blame goes - I don't blame the children for wanting to be involved (their parents I'll cover tomorrow) - the show's messaging is incredibly seductive. I do however blame the producers as no doubt they understand the implications of these kids being in America's cold, hard, spotlight and however well intentioned they might claim to be, ultimately what they're doing is exploiting children for the sake of viewers, and I believe, putting children in true harm's way."
Coach Bob Harper had this to say: "With the kids, we wanted to do exactly the opposite of when we work with the adults. We do no breaking down, just lifting up ... It's about getting kids to move around again and getting kids to be kids."


But the show is already putting a lot of responsibility on the kids, calling them "ambassadors." What if they can't live up to the expectations for them? How will a 13-year-old handle such pressures in front of a national audience?

658 sediments (sic) from readers:

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Working Woman said...

It always annoyed me the way the kids' money was blown at places like Nobu and Fig and Olive. Why?
******************

Because that's where ALL the celebs go!! You expect Kate to go into any ol' restaurant, where the mediocre like to eat?

We talked recently about that Vanity Fair interview from 2009 and how hilarious it is that she exclaims several times that she must go to Nobu ...and that they included it in the article!

Hehehehehehehehehe. That gives me a great laugh. I don't have anything against trying trendy restaurants in NYC or LA... but she could have at least been subtle about her desire to live like a "stah" and eat sushi with them.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

I live to try out new restaurants but I also don't put children to work to foot the bill. I am tickled pink to try out Jack Allen's Kitchen next week. With MY money!!

Sad words delivered with a smile said...

@XXXX I never know if u get what I send!:)


@Kateplusmy8 Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Then stop sending it you idiot. Wake up.


In Roberts book a fan sent some toys which suddenly popped up in an episode. A fan wrote to Kate oh wow glad to see you got the toys imagine my surprise to see them on tv.

So not only did she not thank them but she had the balls to feature them in an episode. Astounding.

Anonymous said...

heather here ...

Also, to anyone who has not got the flu shot yet, go get it! The supply is getting low in many areas, as the number of cases explodes.
Just saw an area near KK in PA had such a spike in flu cases, that a hospital (Lehigh) set up an overflow tent. They had hundreds of cases coming in.. per day.
____

Just a friendly PSA:

Most people are not aware of this fact: the flu shot is 60% "effective." That's it. It in no way guarantees that you won't get sick, and in fact many people actually get sick from the shot itself. Or get the flu in spite of having the shot.

Do sone research, learn what the ingredients are, and decide whether you feel it is appropriate for you and your family.

Basically, with the shot: 60/40.
Without the shot: 50/50.




Tucker's Mom said...

Anonymous said... 5
heather here ...
*****
Efficacy of flu shots vary year to year, depending upon the strain(s) they target.
I'll take those odds, and those who are far more at risk than I am may benefit by my vaccination.
The downside far outweighs the upshot for the vast majority of the population.

Working Woman said...

Sad words delivered with a smile said... 3
@XXXX I never know if u get what I send!:)


I feel bad for this person. Although I don't agree with her decision to send anything to someone as ungrateful and well-off as Kate, it comes from a thoughtful place on her part, and she deserves better treatment.

The bottom line is, these people take the time, money, and effort to send Kate and her family nice gifts. As long as Kate is not going to discourage this and suggest that they donate it elsewhere, she should absolutely write each of them a well thought-out, timely, personalized thank you card and let them know how much she appreciates it.

Very classless behavior on her part.

Tucker's Mom said...

The downside far outweighs the upshot for the vast majority of the population.
*****
OOPS!
The upshot outweighs the downside!!
I need a brain fart vaccination!

Formerly Duped said...

I had a possible bad ( and permanent it seems) reaction to a flu shot- dizziness, eye and ear involvement via cranial nerves likely attacked by the vaccine.( acc to my neurologist and loads of tests later) I got symptoms a few days after the shot. But I always got the shot prior to this, with no problems- I think it depends on your health and likeliness to exposure to flu)Anything's a gamble :(?

Blowing In The Wind said...

Then stop sending it you idiot. Wake up.

-----------------------

Absolutely. It sounds like this wasn't the first time she sent something. If it wasn't acknowledged the first time, why keep sending something? I feel sorry for this person, but only because she can't see the forest for the trees. If this is Kate's pattern of behavior, why keep sending more? Just wake up, save your money, or donate to a charity.

Tucker's Mom said...

@Kateplusmy8 Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)
******
What is "slow" about tweeting <140 characters as a (mass, impersonal, not heart-felt) thank you. I could tap that out while taking a pee on the turlet.
Really?

Tucker's Mom said...

)Anything's a gamble :(?
*****
Always a risk-benefit ratio to consider. Sorry about your bad reaction! I only experienced mild flu sx after vaccination, but that was years ago. Then, I didn't get the flu vaccine for years but got back on the wagon last year.

Winter Wonderland said...

XXXXXXXXXX
@Kateplusmy8 Who were you screaming at on the phone in the parking lot today? You looked evil, as usual

Either someone was in the parking lot with Berks, or someone has been reading here! :)

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

I used to send birthday gifts to close friends's kids but never got an acknowledgement so I stopped soon enough. I wasn't upset about it, I just assumed they didn't want it and my gifts could be better served elsewhere. It's not hard to say thank you. If you can't I guess you didn't want them.

Anonymous said...

I didn't tweet that. There was a man in the parking lot that pulled in next to me on the left. Maybe he saw the same thing?

However, my best guess is someone is reading here and posting that.

Formerly Duped said...

Thanks, Tucker's Mom.:)I would probably have a flu shot again if in risky environment.


I'm sure it had nothing to do with our Berks! I vote for reading here. Kate, you've been punked..or not.

Penny said...

As for me, I'd rather give 'em the benefit of the doubt. Much better to have a tendency toward obesity, I think, than to be afflicted with a heart that's three sizes too small.


Thank You!

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said... 5
heather here ...

Also, to anyone who has not got the flu shot yet, go get it! The supply is getting low in many areas, as the number of cases explodes.
Just saw an area near KK in PA had such a spike in flu cases, that a hospital (Lehigh) set up an overflow tent. They had hundreds of cases coming in.. per day.
____

Just a friendly PSA:

Most people are not aware of this fact: the flu shot is 60% "effective." That's it. It in no way guarantees that you won't get sick, and in fact many people actually get sick from the shot itself. Or get the flu in spite of having the shot.

Do sone research, learn what the ingredients are, and decide whether you feel it is appropriate for you and your family.

Basically, with the shot: 60/40.
Without the shot: 50/50.
___________________________________________
The flu is bad this year. We had two people come down with it who had the vax.

I've been forced to get vax'd my entire time in the service- and as soon as I get out- I will stop getting it. My daughter has never been vax'd against flu, and she has never had flu. She has no intentions of getting vax'd anytime soon.

AuntieAnn said...

You know who u are


Wow. How's that for callous disregard for her fans...fans that took the time to make or buy something and put it in the mail to send to her.

The time she wasted tweeting about a french yogurt maker or a photo of broken glass could have been spent writing out ty notes.

Know what you are Kate? A horse's ass.

Working Woman said...

I don't know why she is so obsessed with twitter, for every fawning compliment from a sheeple there is a nasty post from someone else.

It would be so heartbreaking for me to read about myself.

Again, why doesn't she protect her tweets? There are clearly specific tweeters (who she calls "bullies) who regularly post less-than-flaterring comments. So why doesn't she make her account private, that way she can approve who she wishes and wouldnt always have to advise her fans to block and ignore the bullies?

Why does nothing that woman does make any sense????

Widowed Young said...

Elvis Fan said... 148

@Working Woman Thank you so much for your kind words. Yes, I've been through a lot in my life. I've been told since the age of 18 how "strong" I am, and for the most part that's true. However, when I lost my husband, I felt anything but. It truly almost did me in. We never "get over" losing a loved one, we learn to live through it. You're a very compasionate caring person, and I really love your posts. So glad you're here!
--------------------------------------------
Elvis Fan-that is so me. When my husband died suddenly everyone said-if anyone can handle this ... can, she is so strong. It has been 6 years this February and still so hard. But I get up every day because of my 4 kids-I had no choice-they were ages 6 (youngest DD turned 6 two days before he died), 10, 13 and 15 at the time.

I haven't mentioned it before but my id explains that I was only 40 when he died. We had been together all of my adult life (since age 19) and he was my best friend. The long story short-He was in the best shape of his life-worked a 24 hour shift so he rode his bicycle to work 25 miles every day(left at noon one day and came home at the same time the next). He left as usual on Thursday afternoon and we talked on the phone that day and said goodnight. He had complained of a headache all day but thought it was because he was eating limited calories to lose weight. I told him he was a cyclist-he knows that he needs to fuel his body when he is riding that much each day!

Woke up the next morning to a phone call that he was being sent to the hospital. By the time I got there I was told he was having a massive stroke and was going to be airlifted to a hospital in Seattle that was better equipped to deal with him. I had to drive the 30 miles and by the time I got there was told there was nothing they could do. He was on life support for the next 24 hours so my kids and friends and family could say goodbye. Talk about sudden and shocking! I lived in shock for the next weeks but got up everyday and tried to make things normal for my kids.

It does get easier with time but what makes is so hard is that I suffer from social anxiety and probably depression and have a hard time in social situations by myself. With kids so young, there are tons of sporting events, concerts, holidays, graduations and in the future weddings, grandkids, ect and I have to do them all without their dad. I know my situation is different than a divorce, but my 2 older kids have no desire for me to date or have a relationship with a future potential relationship. I am fine with that for now-these past 6 years have been about raising my kids.

Anyway-things have been challenging, especially with my only son (age 19 now). I, of course have gained weight and just started Weight Watchers online too. I want to lose 50 lbs by the time I come back to PA in October for my daughter's college volleyball senior night. (By the way, I went to Chick-fil-a 3 times when I was there last October-we don't have them in the Pacific Northwest!) Didn't see Jon there though-guess I was too far away in Langhorne.

If you wait to have the get together until the end of October I can come too!!!

Working Woman said...

Widowed Young,

Your post touched my heart.

What you and your family went through, it must have been heartbreaking. I am so sorry that you had to endure such a loss.

It sounds like he was a good man and such a valuable part of your life. I give you such credit for being such a strong presence in your children's lives, even while grieving. They are lucky to have you.

I wish you and your family all the very best, Widowed. May you all continue to find comfort in one another and be blessed with love and peace. Thank you for sharing your story.

just a mom and grandma said...

Kate Gosselin ‏@Kateplusmy8

Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)

How can she even let her kids accept wrapped gifts from strangers? Does she unwrap them to see if they are even appropriate for kids then re-wrap them? You never know what might be in some of those packages....

Tucker's Mom said...

Widowed Young said... 21
******
You are remarkable and by remarkable, I don't mean shitting rainbows and unicorns like Kate. That's just smoke and mirrors. Real life is what you're describing and thank you for sharing your children's stories with us.
We KNOW damn well that all of the G8 don't bang on the kitchen table, demanding another Daddy or a man around the house. That's absurd.
The death of a parent or even divorce (a kind of death) is very traumatic for children. Good for you for focusing on your kids and sacrificing putting a warm body in your bed. Many women put their social needs before the needs of small children.
Your husband sounds like he was a wonderful man.
When my mom lost my dad at 49/50, she barely looked at another man. He was her one and only and certainly she did not not date for me or my brother, it's just that she knew she's never find a love like that again. Other reasons too, but that was her.
Your future holds many possibilities and I hope you find happiness. Sounds like you deserve that gold platter, in spades!

Winter Wonderland said...

kateplusmy8
@HspncElvis thanks! Thats very kind of you but I went to @Lowes today! :) New light fixtures are ready to be installed:)

We know, Kate, you were giving someone hell on your pink iPhone!

AuntieAnn said...

Berks Neighbor said... 186

No fire truck, but the odd thing is the blood donor bus was out front.
====

Ahhh... so that's who she was yelling at.

"YOU'RE IN MY PARKING SPOT!!! DON'T YOU KNOW WHO I AM???!!!"

PatK said...

Winter Wonderland said... 13
XXXXXXXXXX
@Kateplusmy8 Who were you screaming at on the phone in the parking lot today? You looked evil, as usual

Either someone was in the parking lot with Berks, or someone has been reading here! :)


&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

The person who tweeted that is a regular on Kate's twitter. I'm sure she read it here.

Dmasy said...

Widowed Young, you are brave. Be here with us and we will care about you every day. We will be friends who won't remind you of the social anxiety. Bless you and your children.

Widowed Young said...

Thank you for the kind words-I don't post as much as I like but I am here everyday (I have no social life :) )and feel like you are all old friends. Elvis Fan's post hit home and made me feel like posting my story. Like I said, it really does get better with time. I didn't believe it when people told me that at the time but it does.

I originally picked my id because I am offended every time Kate calls herself a "single mom".

I am off to pick up my 2 youngest from school and then to after school activities-thank you again!

Penny said...

"YOU'RE IN MY PARKING SPOT!!! DON'T YOU KNOW WHO I AM???!!!"


YES. Everybody knows.
You are a child abuser.
You are a man-hater.
You are mean and nasty to everybody you come in contact with.
You disowned every family member.
You grift from your fans.
You are ugly on the inside so no matter what you do to your outside, you are still very ugly.

Yes, we all know who you are and don't really give a shit.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Re: Flu shot

I'm allergic to eggs, so my doctor does not want to give me the flu shot.

So now what? I ask him.

He told me to carry a small bottle of Purell in my purse, and use liberally.

He also recommended that everyone in my family get the flu shot, so they will not bring the flu home to me.

Bummer.

FUNNY said...

http://mediacdn.disqus.com/uploads/mediaembed/images/412/9814/original.jpg

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

All the ranting and raving she does consumes much more energy than were she just to relax, breathe, and speak calmly. No wonder she is exhausted. My guess is TLC was on the other end pissed that she and only she outed the France trip.

Working Woman said...

Pink, I hope you and everyone in your family stays healthy! Wishing you all the best. :-)

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Widowed Young, thank you for sharing such a personal and heartbreaking story. What inner strength you showed your children while dealing with this very sad situation. I pray that you and your children are doing well. God bless always, hon.

Dwindle, hope you get better soon.

Thank you again to all who responded to my posts about the situation with my daughter. I appeciate the kindness and support of the good people on this blog.

Yes, Lilly, I AM grifting for snow and still have not received any. Not even a prepaid ticket to a place that has lots of snow. What am I doing wrong? Lol!!

Dmasy said...

We use Kumbucha tea for a probiotic in our home. I brewed a batch today. The flavor is vinegarish. You get used to it.

You need a friend with a starter. My sister got me started about a year ago.

Health food stores sell bottled but Kumbucha tea. It is rather expensive.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

You touch my heart, Widowed Young.
May your dear husband rest in peace.

Congratulations on joining Weight Watchers!
You deserve to be happy, be healthy, and look
absolutely FABULOUS for YOU.

Best Wishes,
Pink

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Working Woman said... 34

Pink, I hope you and everyone in your family stays healthy! Wishing you all the best. :-)

************************************************

Thank you, luv.
I wish the same for you and your family too-
stay healthy :o)

Keep your hands clean!

LancasterCountyMom said...

Dwindle,

I just emailed you. :D

PatK said...

FUNNY said... 32
http://mediacdn.disqus.com/uploads/mediaembed/images/412/9814/original.jpg


&&&&&&&

LOL!!

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Formerly Duped said... 9

I had a possible bad ( and permanent it seems) reaction to a flu shot- dizziness, eye and ear involvement via cranial nerves likely attacked by the vaccine.( acc to my neurologist and loads of tests later) I got symptoms a few days after the shot. But I always got the shot prior to this, with no problems- I think it depends on your health and likeliness to exposure to flu)Anything's a gamble :(?

************************************************

Holy cow, Formerly Duped. How frightening.
I hope you are alright.

Fleecing The Sheeple said...

We use Kumbucha tea for a probiotic in our home. I brewed a batch today. The flavor is vinegarish. You get used to it.

====================
Dwindle, every time I read the name of the tea, I find myself humming "Kumbaya, my Lord..."

Meagler said...

Checked out the TL:C website and the TV show schedule. There are no Kate plus 8 shows scheduled from here till Sunday..so if anyone else tweets they watched it..its bogus! I cant go back tho to see if it was on their schedule for these last few days, but who knows. There are some of those other old shows in the early morning hours. So perhaps.

and yes kate, you do have to do maintenance on a house once in a while..and that light fixture appears to be in the area where the kids are often lined up to watch tv...please check the other light fixtures to make certain they are not loose!!

Rhymes With Witch said...


FUNNY said... 32

THIS IS HILARIOUS!

------------

Yes, It is!

Fleecing The Sheeple said...

and yes kate, you do have to do maintenance on a house once in a while..and that light fixture appears to be in the area where the kids are often lined up to watch tv...please check the other light fixtures to make certain they are not loose!!

========================

I missed the whole light fixture hysteria. Did the entire fixture come down, or just one of the globes? She tweeted that a new fixture is ready to be installed. If it were just the globe, you wouldn't need a whole new fixture. If it were the fixture, wouldn't she have tweeted a photo of the entire light on the floor?

I'm lost on this one...

Formerly Duped said...

Pink, thanks. It could be worse- it happened two falls ago- I lost hearing- clarity, not sound in one ear, night vision in one eye, and am dizzy (within my head, not room-spinning) much of the time. But able to function . I'm lucky I am not blind or deaf- it's the only way to look at it. You never know when you will be one statistic on something simple like a vaccine you meant to protect your health!

AuntieAnn said...

FUNNY said... 32
====

LOL!!!!

I hope Kate sees it.

Fleecing The Sheeple said...

dusticolleen
@Kateplusmy8 my Christmas break from college consisted on ours on Netflix watching you! I'm on the episode where u go bak to the nicu!

They aim high, don't they...these college students who watch Kate for hours over break? My question is -- why do these kids find a 30-something woman with eight kids so fascinating?

Penny said...

She IS fascinating, but in a bad way.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Tlc would have been the nerdiest thing ever to watch when I was in college. We liked things like the Matrix, The Sopranos, Black Hawk Down. "Cool" stuff. I guess college has come a long way since then!

Working Woman said...

Back in mid 2009 when Jon and Kate Plus 8 ratings were at their best, I was in college was just getting into the show.

It was right around the time when they announced their divorce. I hadn't really known who they were before then, I just saw the episode where they announced their divorce and wanted to know what had preceded it. So, the summer of 2009, I bought the DVDs and watched all of the seasons.

I loved it when I first started watching it. But the appeal for me was strictly that I thought the kids were adorable and I didn't realize yet quite how exploitive the show was. I was never, ever fascinated by Kate - I found her rude, emasculating, and honestly quite boring and never wanting to have fun (she went all the way to Utah to go to a spa -- couldn't she do that in PA???)

So, when I was in college and super into the show, it was because of the kids, NOT because of Kate. I can't answer to why anyone, young or older, would find her interesting or appealing.

AuntieAnn said...

Fleecing The Sheeple said... 48

dusticolleen
@Kateplusmy8 my Christmas break from college consisted on ours on Netflix watching you! I'm on the episode where u go bak to the nicu!

They aim high, don't they...these college students who watch Kate for hours over break? My question is -- why do these kids find a 30-something woman with eight kids so fascinating?
====

Hopefully they're studying her show for a psych 101 paper. Maybe by the time they get to the last episode they'll join us.

Anonymous said...

Where are you LMG...I'm shoveling the stuff into buckets just to get you snow

Millicent said...

Widowed Young, your story touched me deeply. The reason I ended up a single mom stem from theunexpected death of my boyfriend years ago now. I was so lost without him and lonely that I took up with a man more for comfort than love. But I felt emptier than ever because there no love, so we broke up after close to a year. Found I was pregnant almost 2 months later. My son helped heal me in so many ways. Life can be very hard but solace comes sometimes when we least expect it. As to social anxiety, I have a mild form, I "fake it to make it" by putting n an act but it can take all my energy sometimes. Hope you feel less alone because of this group!

Elvis Fan said...

@ widowed young, Thank you so much for sharing your story. I couldn't stop the tears. Our stories are so similar. Please accept my condolences on the loss of your husband. I truly understand the shock and the pain you experienced. We both lost not only the love of our lives, but our best friends. That's a really hard hit. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man!

My husband and I had only one child, who was 17 when he died. We were a tight family unit, as I'm sure you were. I only had one child to worry about, you had 4! God Bless you sweetheart,you are brave and strong, although I know we don't feel that way all the time. It's hard to deal with all of those celebrations, events, etc. without them..especially for our kids.. my heart broke for my daughter on her high school graduation day. She just wanted her dad. How I wish I could've fulfilled that wish. I know too, that you wish the same for your kids. They are all that matter. Keep going honey, your kids are blessed to have you!

Please do take good care of yourself. If you need help with depression, please reach out! Happy to hear you've joined WW as well! Would be great to do that get-together in Oct, because I'd really love to meet you, and share some "hogs". LOL Yes, time does help, and like another poster mentioned, our kids aren't anxious for us to start dating again..it's the last thing they're thinking about. It's the last thing I'm thinking about! Take care hon. I'm here for you anytime!

Sorry for the OT everybody.

Anonymous said...

Khate lowered herself to mediocre Lowe's for new light fixtures? I'm shocked. Shocked I tell you. She didn't try to get on Million Dollar Decorator (or whatever the name of that show). How plebeian.

Unknown said...

Admin....clean up on aisle 57!!

Unknown said...

Admin....Rat trap needed on aisle 59!!

Elvis Fan said...

@57 It's called sharing, caring, compassion, commiserating, being a human being. Do you really not get that? Really? How sad.

Elvis Fan said...

Dwindle, sorry to hear that you're not feeling well. Lots of fluids! Feel better soon hon.

Working Woman said...

Not everyone is the type of person who wishes to discuss their personal life on a blog, and that is fine.

But to insult others for sharing their inspirational stories and for displaying kindness and compassion and receiving it from others? Horrible.

I missed the comment but there is nothing wrong with sharing stories and commiserating. Again, it's part of being a human being.

No one who doesn't like it has to participate in it. But there is no need to make others feel like they are doing anything wrong. I just don't get it.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Elvis Fan, Millicent, Widowed Young - my heart goes out to all of you ladies. I cannot imagine having to go through what each of you have endured. I pray for strength, healing, and comfort for each of you and your children. God bless.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Working Woman, I didn't see the nasty comment that was posted, either. However, I agree with you 100%. People share what they feel comfortable sharing and this is one blog where all who need it can find compassion and support. To me, that's what a blog community should be, and those that don't like it do not have to come here.

Kiwi, I'd love to shovel that snow for you, darlin'. Just send me a prepaid ticket and I'm there!

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

For the Civil War buffs here don't forget Joy alerted us about The Abolitionists. It begins tonight on PBS.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

People who have their heads in order and are healthy inside and out don't see everything as keeping score or who is better or who has a better story. Healthy people don't see "one upping" everywhere. And even if someone is trying to, they don't care because it's that person who has the issue, not you. I can't imagine living that way, much like Kate does, always looking left and right to see who is trying to one up me. I would suggest therapy, in all sincerity. You will be much happier when life isn't one giant competition with other women.

AuntieAnn said...

Flight of the Kiwi said... 56

Khate lowered herself to mediocre Lowe's for new light fixtures? I'm shocked. Shocked I tell you. She didn't try to get on Million Dollar Decorator (or whatever the name of that show). How plebeian.
====

I'm worried about her. Cripes. Next thing ya know she'll be dying her own hair.

Improbable Dreams said...

I'm a big softie myself, and if you tell me a sad tale, I'll give you the shirt off my back and the benefit of the doubt. I choose to do that, until and unless you give me reason to do otherwise.

But that's not the case with everyone, for lots of reason. People aren't always what they seem, and true stories get altered, given the cover of internet anonymity. Not saying that's happening here right now, but perhaps it helps explain the knee-jerk cynicism you're seeing here tonight.

For instance, I remember a while back that a woman came onboard with a sad story that paralleled Kate Gosselin's in lots of ways. Chief among them was the fact that (for different reasons, which I don't remember) she was a (divorced?) mother raising a brood about as big as Kate's. Even at the time, there were lots of questions as to her story's veracity. People let their skepticism be known, directly and among themselves when she wasn't around. Harsh words were exchanged. Said poster got her feelings hurt. And then -- poof! She vanished. Maybe she said goodbye first, when I was offline. Maybe she provided irrefutable evidence of her story's having been true, without my having seen it. BI was sad to see her go. But the point is, there will always be heart-tugging stories, told by authentic, loving people-- in the same way that there will always exist those people who feel comfortable laying themselves bare online, seeking sympathy via untrue stories.

With that in mind -and in no way referencing anything/anyone being discussed here tonight--,it makes sense for all of us to stay vigilant, while also giving due deference to the Good Samaritan that lies within each of us. Peace.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Well, you need to be vigilant when someone tells you a story in real life, too. I don't think that troll was trying to tell us to be vigilant from one friendly woman to another. She was trying to be mean and nasty.

I see no reason to be nasty to someone's situation as they are telling it unless the person is asking for some kind of financial help or otherwise preying on people. Then it becomes important to be sure what they are telling is true. Otherwise, whatever.

Improbable Dreams said...

Agree with you, Admin. Vigilance is the prudent, sensible approach, and there's no justification for the nastiness demonstrated by that troll.

Working Woman said...

That's the thing about internet communication - you can only go by that the other person says. If someone claims to be 30 years old and have blonde hair, for example, you don't have a visual picture of them or outside knowledge of them to prove otherwise - you have to take their word for it.

Same when people share details about their lives. Unless I ever have any reason to believe I am being duped or taken advantage of, I fully believe what everyone choses to share on this blog and am willing to offer all of the compassion and best wishes I can.

That's what many of us do here, offer kind words to those who have been so kind to us. And there's not a thing in the world wrong with that.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

The troll was talking about one-upping.

That's a completely different issue than whether someone's story is true. You can still be a one-upper and be telling the truth. Two different things. Widowed Young is such a lovely poster with such a long, frankly perfect track record here, I'm a little uncomfortable with her being the reason we are suddenly discussing the authenticity of people's stories. It seems mean, not the time or place for such a thing right now.

I don't see nasty one-upping comments as EVER acceptable, even if the story is by chance not true. They are unnecessary. If you are so insecure you feel you are being one upped, go get therapy.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

I am a softie, too, like Improbable Dreams. I will help people when I can and pray for them always. Have I been duped? Once or twice. Does that experience prevent me from trying to help others? No, it doesn't. For the most part, the people involved truly did need help, or someone to talk to, a shoulder to lean on for awhile.

I have a plaque that (paraphrasing) says that I am just passing through this life once. Do not let me shy away from doing any good that I can along the way because I will not be passing through this way again.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

LovemyGrandsons I agree.

I think the bullshit meter here is well refined. I'm not worried about the folks here, AT ALL. Sure one or two may not trigger that meter to go off but no harm no foul, MOST do and that's good enough track record for me.

I'm far more worried about the sheeple, who do things like send this multi millionaire Christmas trips to Europe and summer trips to the Gulf free CHristmas gifts and sign up for a cruise that Kate knew would never happen in the first place. They are the ones who have a problem separating fact from the snake oil salesman. I wish we could help them somehow.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Oh, Admin, as you know, there are none so blind at those that will not see. That describes the sheeple perfectly. They REFUSE to acknowledge the facts.

Working Woman said...

The troll was talking about one-upping.

That's a completely different issue than whether someone's story is true. You can still be a one-upper and be telling the truth. Two different things.

******************

I'm sorry, I actually didn't even see the comment. Some of the following comments about being vigilant, I arrived at the false conclusion that the troll was accusing stories of being false.

I would never doubt the authenticity of Widowed Young's stories, ever, or anyone else's for the matter. Didn't mean to bring up something so irrelevant and I apologize for my misunderstanding.

One-upping comments are equally illegitimate and rude, and untrue.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Working Woman, you are a sweetheart and I'm sure I speak for most when I say that no apologies are necessary. I love your insight and compassion.

Working Woman said...

Thank you very much, LMG, I really appreciate that :-)

Improbable Dreams said...

I stand by my thoughts, but certainly not at the expense of hurting someone with the way I've expressed them here! Again, I wasn't speaking about any one person here, but was speaking in generalities about a broader topic, based on prior experiences that came to mind as the conversation unfolded.

That said, I hope neither Widowed Young nor anyone else thinks my comments were directed at (or prompted by) their stories. Good grief, nothing could be further from the truth! More than a few times, I've gotten teary-eyed, whether because of the stories related here OR the gentle, compassionate way everyone else responds to them. If I've made anyone angry or sad or uncomfortable with my posts, I apologize profusely and hope you'll give me the chance to explain or (better still) make it up to you.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Improbable Dreams, I read your post and knew what you meant. I did not for a minute think your comment was directed at any posts made here. We all have come to know you through your posts and I don't think anyone here would think you were trying to be mean. No apologies necessary, sweetie.

Improbable Dreams said...

Thanks, LMG. I have a tendency to over think things, I guess.

Ice cream, anyone? I'll make a supermarket run for Ben & Jerry's...and some sugar-free popsicles for those who might be counting WW points. :)

Working Woman said...

Ben & Jerry's Chubby Hubby please!

That is beyond delicious.

Improbable Dreams said...

Load up the cart, WW, I'm buyin'! :)

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Sorry, but I don't want ice cream. I want a "snow" cone! Lol!!

Anonymous said...

If you don't mind, any of you nice ladies here, you ever make a pound cake before?

Today was my first go at it, after I got over the shock of the ingredients list. Are you supposed to put it in a special pan or anything because the pan I put it in even though I greased it very well, it wouldn't come out unless I cut it into large squares.

Thanks if nobody minds answering. What with my limited baking skills I wonder why I keep putting myself through this.

LoveMyGrandsons said...

Sorry, Marie, but I can't help. The extent of my baking is the Pillsbury cookie dough that I just have to slice and pop in the oven.

PJ's momma said...

Improbable Dreams, that person you speak of is a friend of mine. Her story is true, she is a single mother of a very large group of kids because her husband was killed by a drunk driver. Her only point here was to show that there are plenty of big families (she has 11 by birth and now 2 adopted) and it is not that big of a deal, you just take life as it comes, and ENJOY the journey. But someone decided it could not be true, she was spending far too much time online (she is a night shift nurse), googled for articles about a father of 11 being killed in an accident with no success.......it was brutal. She just faded away. I think we should consider that some if not most stories ARE true and be compassionate to that. And I know you are, as are most people.

Tucker's Mom said...

Are you supposed to put it in a special pan or anything because the pan I put it in even though I greased it very well, it wouldn't come out unless I cut it into large squares.
*****
What is your pan made of and what did you use to grease it?

Anonymous said...

LMG...can't I just send you the buckets?

Working Woman said...

Marie, pound cake is so delicious, good luck! I'm sorry, I wish I could help but I am not much of a baker at this point in my life... but wishing you luck with it!

LancasterCountyMom said...

Marie - are you "flouring" the pan after you grease it? When I do that, it's generally easy to "pop" the cake out after taking it out of the oven.

Elvis Fan said...

LMG thank you for your kind words and thoughts.
I'm so happy that you've come to a compromise with your daughter.:)

I think the rude poster earlier was just trying to sh*t stir. Shame on me for biting. Thank you ladies for recognizing that. You're a great group, and I appreciate you all. :)

Anonymous said...

It's a heavy pan reminds me of cast iron but it's probably something else, I really don't know pans. It's sort of narrow but pretty deep.

And no. I didn't flour the pan. I didn't know you were supposed to do that. I greased it though. It turned out, well, sort of okay. I mean I personally don't do much baking either. I wanted to do it just to see if I could.

Improbable Dreams said...

PJ's momma ~ Thank you so much for filling in the missing pieces. I'm not owed an explanation by any means, but I've always wondered...and as I mentioned earlier, I was sad to see her (your friend) go. She had my utmost respect then, as now. If you're so inclined, would you please give her my best?

I agree that we should give each other a lot of latitude and grace, on this blog and in the whole of our lives. It's the call to (in Lincoln's words) "the better angels of our nature."

Tucker's Mom said...

Marie, you should butter then flour the pan before pouring the batter in. Once you rub the butter all over, place some flour in the pan and maneuver it all around so that the flour lightly coats the bottom and sides.
Once baked, allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before you turn the pound cake out. This allows for the cake to contract away from the edges a bit. It helps to run a butter knife around the edges and pound the bottom on a flat surface to loosen.
Hope this helps!

White Organza said...

Hello, Marie! A pound cake fan, here! And, non, it doesn't take a special pan to bake one that will come out easily. Try a greased AND floured pan. Better, try a greased and floured pan lined with large strips of parchment paper. Good luck with your next one!

Tucker's Mom said...

Marie-- also, I rarely butter and flour anymore in favor of using Pam for baking or my new favorite non-stick spray, Crisco. I find the Crisco tends to not lead to browning like Pam does.

Anonymous said...

Recipe I used didn't say to flour the pan, and I greased it with shotening, not butter. I figured 2 sticks of butter was plenty already.

I'm not going to worry about it for once. I've had much worse baking disasters. Like the time I accidently dyed our kitchen floor when I was 17 with red food coloring because I dropped the bottle. Or the time I smoked the house out because what I had in there overflowed. Bad news is I set the smoke alarm off, good news is, no cops showed up.

White Organza said...

LOl... This is hilarious! We all went pound cake crazy at the same time!!! On a post more or less about the multiples reasons behind obesity. And I think it's all Improbable Dream's fault. ;o) She started it with her Ben & Jerry fiendish suggestion... Just a few days after all our New Year resolution. Tsk, tsk, tsk...

Improbable Dreams said...

Hey Marie, I heard pound cake goes really well with ice cream! Warm from the pan, with a scoop of ice cream melting down the sides of those squarish chunks... :)

Improbable Dreams said...

LOL, White Organza! I offered S/F popsicles to the more disciplined eaters among us. :)

Anonymous said...

Oh...guys I'm sorry. I didn't mean make a big deal out of pound cake or anything like that. Not like I am going to eat it I just wanted to see if I could do it that was all. I hate to have offended anyone for bringing it up.

I don't have a lot of baking skills. Only baking skills I got were helping a neighbor lady bake cookies and that when I stayed with her as a kid. I just thought I'd give it a go.

This cake will probably go to my friends. But my chihuhua puppy, I gave him a crumb because he seemed to really, really want a piece.

White Organza said...

Who gives a hoot about s/f popsicles?! I'm in a "Marie Antoinette" mood tonight: let us eat cake! And ice cream! I don't even know what flavor is "Chubby Hubby", but I'm positive I want some...

Bluebird said...

Widowed Young and Elvis Fan, both of your stories hit home. I've mentioned a few personal things that have happened in my life on this blog, and found everyone understanding and helpful. I have no reason to believe that what people say here is not true, if they feel a need to reveal bits of their past, who am I to judge, everyone needs a place to vent and it's sometimes easier to express ourselves when we are anonymous.

LMG, you are such an understanding and compassionate lady, a real friend to many here.

OT -- I'll be going on vacation in February, driving from Quebec to Nashville, Tennessee to see the Grand Ole Opry and then on to Memphis to see Graceland. I can't wait and so excited. I think I've mentioned before, but I love country line dancing and this trip will be just up my alley.

Sorry for my blabbing, hogs to all!

Bearswife said...

All this ice cream talk makes me glad that I ate some earlier before my 12 hour fast started. You guys are naughty! For the record ;) it was sugar free Breyers vanilla - not half bad.

Bearswife said...

Oh, and the fast is just for some routine "middle age" blood work. Nothing serious going on here.

LancasterCountyMom said...

Marie - we like talking about pound cake, lol! Recipes don't always tell you to do things like flour the pan. I've just always done that since I was a girl, so I don't know where I learned it from.
I'm sure your friends will enjoy the cake!

Bluebird said...

Marie, follow Tucker's Mom's instructions. Grease with real butter then flour. Let cool then tap it out of the pan. Pound cake is so good, with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Now, I'm getting the munchies.

Millicent said...

I missed the troll thank goodness. If my reply to Widowed Young sounded like one-upmanship, I apologize. I was trying to offer comfort. LMG, you have a very big heart. Now I'm going to read back about Kate's yelling in a parking lot.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Millicent, it didn't sound like that. Only to a troll who really needs therapy.

Again I don't understand the yelling with Kate. I HATE yelling or being yelled at. It makes me get so tense. I like pleasant voices, uplifting conversations, or at least neutral ones. There's nothing you can't accomplish if you don't yell. I don't understand people who live this way, with the yelling and shouting. Actually that's one thing that annoys me about the Biggest Loser one-way diet. All the yelling, in your face, shouting. Ugh, enough.

This isn't said much but I think Kate has a serious anger management problem in addition to her host of other issues. Dwindle?

California Suzy said...

Working Woman and PJs momma—thank you for your caring ways. My sister’s aneurysm will not require the brain surgery we had feared was necessary. Meanwhile, she is being monitored but we were all shaken.

Cruisin…I, too, would make sure my son and daughter wrote their thank you notes before playing with their toys. It would have been the “teachable moment” for KK to train her children how to respond with thanks to the kindness of strangers (and others from whom they received gifts).

Widowed…and Elvis Fan—how very sorry I am to read of your trials. May you find continued strength and encouragement.

Hope it is okay to share a terrific online site I found when studying French: www.bonjour.com. Actually, you can also click on German, Italian, Portuguese, Swedish, Dutch, Turkish sites. You can see how words are spelled (includes phonetic spelling) and hear how they sound and it covers greetings, courtesies, Alphabet, numbers, days, months, asking for help/directions, etc. There is also an app for my phone, but this online site is better IMO. May others find this as helpful as I did!

Elvis Fan said...

@ Bluebird, thank you. AND you'll love Graceland! Take lots of pics! :) I hope you have an awesome trip, hon.

librarylady said...

Marie, your pound cake post is making me miss my away-at-college son, lol. He LOVES pound cake and I always have to make one for him to take back to school. I have a great recipe from an elderly neighbor that is his favorite - but his OTHER favorite is pound cake made out of cake mix! I'm not a huge pound cake fan but even I like this one. It's so good and soooo simple to make. I don't even use the traditional bundt pan, I just make it in a 9x13 and cut into squares. It's a hit wherever I take it. With strawberries on top...yum!

Sorry about the OT - it just struck me because I just made one yesterday before son went back to school :)

librarylady said...

Bluebird, Nashville is awesome and the Opry is great! We made a last-minute quick trip there last summer and couldn't believe our luck in who happened to be performing at the Opry that night. Be sure to take time to wander around in the Opryland hotel, it's so neat.

(I love Tennessee - my family is from the region around Nashville and I have such fond memories from my childhood visits, and also someday I WILL live around the Smoky Mountains, lol!)

Elvis Fan said...

@ California Suzy, Thank you, and I'm so sorry to hear about your sister! I'll pray for her recovery, and for strength for you all. Hang in there!

@Millicent, Children are indeed great healers!You will also be in my prayers tonight.

Now off to bed with me. All this talk about pound cake is making me hungry! (Nope, stay out of the kitchen.) LOL

Widowed Young said...

I am finally home and settled in for the night-thank you for all the support. I tried to emphasize that it has been 6 years and the kids and I have done a ton of growing and healing in that time. I have been reading this blog for years now and didn't share my story until today. I know people are "sceptical" about sad stories but I have a death certificate if anyone wants to see it ;)!

I do suffer from the social anxiety and even feel it when posting on the internet. This blog is filled with caring, loving, compassionate people and for some reason I felt like sharing today. I appreciate all your kindness.

Thanks for the heads up about The Abolistionists admin-I started it about 10 minutes late but I am sure it will repeat. When I was in PA in October we made the drive to Gettysburg-it was the highlight of the trip for us (other than visiting my daughter and seeing her play volleyball, of course). It is a very different feeling being there vs just reading or watching a program about it. I put over 800 miles on my rental while I was there-Gettysburg was 150 miles round trip but so worth it!

That is one very positive thing that came out of losing my husband. I doubt my daughter would have ever ventured across the country to go to college if our lives hadn't been changed so drastically. She could have gone to a small school in Oregon and been 5 hours from home but she chose the school that was 2600 miles away in PA. It was a major step outside of her comfort zone and a needed change. I am sad to see her go but it was the best decision for her so I fully support it. She did 2 years at the local Community college so had a chance to be home and mature before moving on.

Again, thank you for the support and encouragement. And don't forget to root for my Seahawks this weekend!

fidosmommy said...

Well, at least this version of globe=gate didn't lead to an inquisition of who looked like the guilty party. Thank goodness for small favors.

fidosmommy said...

I'm clearly running an hour late and a quarter short today because I have missed every single
comment from the trolls. Somebody's been quick
on the Delete button.

Anonymous said...

Jimmy Kimmel has a feature where celebrities read tweets to them that are meant. Their reactions are priceleSs. Not all BLOCK at the first sign of meanness.

The word "bullying" was never mentioned.

JoyinVirginia said...

We are definitely going to be rooting for the Seahawks! There are two local boss on the team! News tonight had interviews with players thanking everyone from the area who went up to FedEx field to see the Seahawks and Redskins play. Unfortunately RG III of the Redskins will have knee surgery this week, he tore at least one knee ligament.

Elvis fan, thanks for the reminder it is Elvis birthday! If you want to see something silly, search on YouTube for Mojo Nixon singing ”Elvis is Everywhere”.
Elvis is everywhere
Elvis is everything
Elvis is everybody
Elvis is still the king...
Who built the pyramids? Elvis!
Who built Stonehenge? Elvis!
What's going on in the Bermuda Triangle?
Elvis needs boats! Elvis needs boats! Elvis Elvis Elvis Elvis Elvis needs boats!
It goes on like that, you get the idea.

Rhymes with Witch said...





For the Civil War buffs here don't forget Joy alerted us about The
Abolitionists. It begins tonight on PBS. 64

Admin, I watched, and wished I hadn't eaten dinner first. Otherwise,
it was excellent.

p.s. I apologize for my infrequent comments. I read here daily but
have numerous difficulties posting. DK why. It is very frustrating.
So much I'd like to comment about.

Misquoting Wm Faulkner: I rely on the kindness of friends.

fidosmommy said...

chef summer, where are you? I miss you. Come back!

LancasterCountyMom said...

Can't sleep for some reason, so I came here to check posts. I guess all you insomniacs are getting a good sleep tonight! :D

Maria said...

Re: the flu shot and claims that it can give you the flu.

That is a myth. As I read on a sign in my Dr's office and have read online:

"Injected flu vaccines only contain dead virus, and a dead virus is, well, dead: it can’t infect you. There is one type of live virus flu vaccine, the nasal vaccine, FluMist. But in this case, the virus is specially engineered to remove the parts of the virus that make people sick."

"There are several reasons why someone might get flu-like symptoms even after they have been vaccinated against the flu.
People may be exposed to an influenza virus shortly before getting vaccinated or during the two-week period that it takes the body to gain protection after getting vaccinated. This exposure may result in a person becoming ill with flu before the vaccine begins to protect them.
People may become ill from other (non-flu) viruses that circulate during the flu season, which can also cause flu-like symptoms (such as rhinovirus).
A person may be exposed to an influenza virus that is not included in the seasonal flu vaccine. There are many different influenza viruses that circulate every year. The flu shot protects against the 3 viruses that research suggests will be most common."

www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/flushot.htm

MJ said...

just a mom and grandma said... 23

Kate Gosselin ‏@Kateplusmy8
Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)

How can she even let her kids accept wrapped gifts from strangers? Does she unwrap them to see if they are even appropriate for kids then re-wrap them? You never know what might be in some of those packages....
****************

I've always wondered if the packages/gifts are even opened and if they go right in the trash. Thus the blanket twitter thanks to all who sent them: she can't thank ppl individually because she doesn't note their names and doesn't know what they sent.

Anonymous said...

Marie,

There are NO scientific studies that prove the flu vaccine works.

None. Try and find them. Search through the medical research databases.

The truth is the shot weakens the immune system, as does EVERY vaccine shot initially. So people get sick, not FROM the shot but as a RESULT of the shot.

I've never had the shot, never gotten sick. I'm in a state where it is not mandatory for my son, thank god, and he has never gotten the flu either. His preschool has NEVER had an epidemic of the flu. Not one kid. My sis is in a state where the shot is mandatory.

Her kids are sick all the time, as are her friends kids. THe schools actually post notices regarding the spread of sickness so people can try to avoid it/prepare for it.

To sum up:
1. No scientific evidence flu vaccine is effective
2. If you get the vaccine, you are weakening your immune system
3. You are putting yourself at risk for getting sick

That's the short story. I was trying to be softhanded in my initial post, but you kind of forced me to respond in a harsher tone.

Do the research beyond "my doctor told me it's OK." One of my doctor's once told me to was my hands with antibacterial soap. Uh, there is no such thing. It's a marketing ploy people, apparently even doctors, fall for every day.

Two more facts re FDA/CDC/WHO:
1. 100,000+ people die each year from correctly prescribed, correctly used FDA-approved drugs. Yet the FDA leaves the drugs on the market.

2. Swine flu "epidemic of 2009" was supposed to kill millions of people. Remember all the stories, scares, there aren't enough vaccines to go around? Know how many people died from the swine flu?

18,500.

Know how many people die from the flu in ann average, non-epidemic year? 30,000 to 40,000.

So the pandemic that was circling the globe, according to to the CDC/WHO regarding this deadly flu, where there weren't enough vaccines to go around, killed less than half the amount of people as an average flu year.

And the reaction of the WHO was to review the "cases" and "decide" that the 18,500 figure was too low. In actually , it must've been between 284,000 and 579,000. So they changed the number from 18,500 proven, documented cases to "most likely 284,000 to 579,000."

Why? It fit the story better. there is no evidence that it killed more than the 18,500.

Be a smart consumer of medical information. Understand what is going on.



Improbable Dreams said...

Good morning, All!

On this day in history, in 1493, Christopher Columbus was sailing near the Dominican Republic when he discovered three mermaids. "They're not "not half as beautiful as they are painted," he complained. No surprise, that, since the "mermaids" he'd encountered were actually manatee. LOL (via http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history)

Movin' like a manatee myself, after all that Ben & Jerry's... :)


Bluebird said...

Elvis Fan thank you, and yes, I intend to take lots and lots of pictures. Just the thought of seeing Elvis' Graceland gives me goosebumps.

Librarylady, I've already got tickets online for the Opry but have no idea who will be playing that night. It'll be a surprise. And yes, I intend to visit the Opryland Hotel.

LMG, I have enough snow here to fill up my car and more.

terri said...

just a mom and grandma said... 23

Kate Gosselin ‏@Kateplusmy8
Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)

How can she even let her kids accept wrapped gifts from strangers? Does she unwrap them to see if they are even appropriate for kids then re-wrap them? You never know what might be in some of those packages....
**************** Oh I would bet my last dollar that she personally opens each and every package to see if the item is worth keeping or not. I just don't see Kate just automatically throwing all those gifts in the garbage. She is just to darn greedy for that.

Improbable Dreams said...

Bluebird~ Graceland's so much fun (kitsch)! Are you making a side-trip to Tupelo to see Elvis's childhood home? You can almost understand the Graceland excess after seeing that tiny, shotgun house!

Anonymous said...


one last post re flu vaccine

it is quite an interesting story as to how the swine flu was labeled a pandemic by the WHO, as it initially did not fit the criteria of a pandemic. But *somehow* the criteria changed and BAM we have a pandemic, Except it wasn't. As shown by the final science in the mortality rate.

Vaccines are protected/exempted from most laws, which is why pharma companies beg, lie and steal to get them approved as such.

No follow-up research is required. That is, once it hits the public the pharma company does not have to track ANYTHING regarding the vaccine, except lot/expiration dates.

Doctors do not have to report any adverse effects of vaccines. If you get sick as the direct cause of a vaccine, your doctor does haven't to say boo to anyone.

If, by some chance, your doctor recognizes that a vaccine has made you ill/injured and you are fortunate to get a lawyer to take your case, the MAX monetary amount allowed by law for compensation is $250,000. that's it. That's less than pennies to a big pharma company. They don't care, that's less than the yearly salary of one of their lawyers. They'll gladly pay it as they are raking in billions from the sale of the vaccine. Which is mandated by law so they have a guaranteed market. Ching ching ching. Why do you think there are all those "booster shots" needed now? Money, money MON_EH .... MON_EH!!!!

Can you see why they love vaccines? No responsibility for any involved, all the risk is on the patient.

If anyone is interested in vaccine stories recently in the news, google "Merck and MMR" or "HPV India." Eye opening, and I guarantee, on your next visit, you will ask a few more questions when your doctor prescribes you a drug.

OK, admin, I am done. I promise not to post any more even tho it is hard for me!! I just want people to be INFORMED. If you disagree with anything I've said, please do some searches and LEARN.


Mel said...

Remember back in Nov I mentioned my sil's sister fell, hit her head, and was in a coma....she finally woke up yesterday! Prayers have been answered and happiness reigns! Hasn't been awake for two months, and the first words out of her mouth? "I have to go to the bathroom." Too funny.

Dmasy said...

Mel, wonderful news for your family. Please keep us updated on her progress. I am sure you are all rejoicing and thanking today.

Bluebird said...

Improbable Dreams, no, I'm only going as far south as Memphis. But my curiousity got the best of me and I googled his childhood home. As for the Graceland excess, I'll give you my opinion when I return.

Has anyone ever heard of the Peabody Hotel Ducks in Memphis? Is it worth a visit?

Mel, I'm so happy for your sister, I pray that she will now have a full recovery.

Improbable Dreams said...

Anon at 130 ~ I do better with facts than assertions, and I don't mind digging into research studies when someone/something challenges my assumptions.

In my observations, the bloggers here are an intelligent, savvy lot. Quite likely, we've already explored this topic on our own. But since we're being challenged to dig a little deeper, I'll offer up data (CDC website, with embedded links) to help address some of the issues you've raised... should anyone be interested in exploring the topic further, that is. With respect, and without further comment as to the points you've made above:

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/cdcresponse.htm

aggiemom09121416 said...

terri said... 128

just a mom and grandma said... 23

Kate Gosselin ‏@Kateplusmy8
Slowly but surely..I wanted2thank all of u who sent cards & surprises 2 us 4 Christmas!You know who u are & we had so much fun opening!;)

How can she even let her kids accept wrapped gifts from strangers? Does she unwrap them to see if they are even appropriate for kids then re-wrap them? You never know what might be in some of those packages....
**************** Oh I would bet my last dollar that she personally opens each and every package to see if the item is worth keeping or not. I just don't see Kate just automatically throwing all those gifts in the garbage. She is just to darn greedy for that.
--------
Yep, Terri, you are correct! Robert stated in his book that Kate opens the kid's gifts from fans,puts them away, and uses them for good behavior incentives throughout the year.

aggiemom09121416 said...

Mel,

Wishing your sister a full recovery!! What a wonderful way to start the new year. Blessings to you and your family.

HOW WONDERFUL!!
:)

Improbable Dreams said...

Mel ~ That's wonderful news! "I have to go to the bathroom." LOL, I'll bet that was music to your ears, sweeter words than ever spoken. HOGS for you, and for your sister, all best wishes for a smooth and full recovery.

Working Woman said...

Mel, how wonderful for your family!

Sending my blessings and warmest thoughts to your sil's sistere, and to your whole family, as she continues in her recovery.

Thank you for updating us, hun, wishing you all the very best!

Laurie said...

I'm late to the party and not a baker by any means but I can make a killer pound cake. And no jokes about it being a "killer" cake because of all the butter in it! Here's my grandmother's pound cake recipe for anyone interested. I know that she probably got the recipe from one of her cookbooks back in the day when they used a lot of butter, but we call it her pound cake because she always made it for us.

2 cups all purpose flour
2 cups sugar
4 sticks room temperature butter (salted or unsalted it doesn't really matter)
5 eggs (room temperature)

Preheat oven to 350. Cream butter and sugar together, add eggs and cream again, add flour in thirds and mix well (I use a hand held mixer). Grease and flour bundt pan (like Tucker's Mom I use either Crisco or Pam baking spray with flour in it). Pour intopan and cook for at least an hour or until pick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes and turn out of pan onto cooling rack. I put a double layer of paper towels on the cooling rack as it prevents the cake from cracking through the bars of the rack. I use a bundt pan that is white inside rather than the dark as I find that the cake browns nicely but not too much.

It's going to be a very dense, buttery cake (and yes it weighs about a pound!). I once used self rising flour by mistake and had cake all over the oven as it rose too much during cooking. What a mess!

I make this cake twice a year. Once for my son's birthday and once for my husband's birthday. Best.pound.cake.ever!



librarylady said...

I just think everyone needs to make his or her personal decision about the flu shot. I no longer get it and it's strictly because of my personal experience. I don't tell anyone what to do, I might say why I don't if they ask.

I am very informed about current medical issues and research due to my job and I never balked about getting it and was skeptical about the fuss, so I did willingly and for free at work for about 5 years.

However, I did indeed become ill within a week after getting the shot each and every one of those years. I also know I could not have amazingly become exposed to a different virus each and every year the *exact* weeks before or after I got the flu shot but no other time of the year. I faithfully kept getting them, and then finally just said "wait a minute...".

I haven't had a flu shot now for a number of years and I have never had the flu. I rarely get sick, just the occasional cold, but I did after I got the shots. So, I just don't get them anymore.

My mom, who has other health problems, does get the flu shot and does NOT become ill.

I think every "body" responds differently - "dead" virus or not - just as some people get reactions from other vaccines and others don't. So from personal experience I think when people say they get sick after the shot and others say they don't - I believe both of them.

Enough of that! Just wanted to post my personal experience. I wonder if KATE gets the flu shot - that might be a nice controversial thing to throw at her on twitter, lol -

Jane said...

Mel said... 131
Remember back in Nov I mentioned my sil's sister fell, hit her head, and was in a coma....she finally woke up yesterday! Prayers have been answered and happiness reigns! Hasn't been awake for two months, and the first words out of her mouth? "I have to go to the bathroom." Too funny.

------------

Happy for you and your family! A wonderful way to begin a New Year :)

Formerly Duped said...

Kate accepted any things from strangers including clothes and toys and let her 'shoe fairy' buy the kids' footwear every season, for example. The twins' 7th birthday showed them opening mailing packages from viewers- staged, yes, but I think Kate takes advantage when it meets her 'standards' As for things like the lovely blocks from the Mennonite (?) woman, into the trash. So cold and ungrateful.

Yes, I agree Kate would want full control over things sent to the kids, but not for safety reasons like most parents, but to mete out as she chooses and be SuperFun Mom.

I saw a tweet from Lowe's(if legit) on Twazzup- thanking her and asking what lights she bought- I hope they don't give her the fixtures, whatever, free...

Improbable Dreams said...

Lowes @Kateplusmy8 Thanks for shopping with us! Which lights did you choose?

LOL! Think she'll answer?

Ampersmom said...

Mel
That is fantastic news! I hope your SIL has a full recovery.

LancasterCountyMom said...

"I promise not to post any more even tho it is hard for me!! I just want people to be INFORMED. If you disagree with anything I've said, please do some searches and LEARN."

I totally agree with you, heather. Even my dh who is in the medical field who used to get his flu shot every year has stopped getting them because he noticed the same pattern that librarylady mentions in her #140. I usually don't say much about these kind of things because I don't like to debate with people about it. I used to go along with standard practice, but my eyes have been opened over the years through some unfortunate occurrences. :/

LancasterCountyMom said...

Mel,

that is so great about your SIL's sister!!! LOVE her first words "I have to go to the bathroom". Does she realize yet that she's been in a coma? Congratulations to the family!!

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Oh Mel, what great news!

May your sister in-law recuperate well & quickly.

Best wishes-
Pink

Anonymous said...

Most people are not aware of this fact: the flu shot is 60% "effective." That's it. It in no way guarantees that you won't get sick, and in fact many people actually get sick from the shot itself. Or get the flu in spite of having the shot.

Do sone research, learn what the ingredients are, and decide whether you feel it is appropriate for you and your family.

Basically, with the shot: 60/40.
Without the shot: 50/50.

************************************************

This info in INCORRECT! No one gets sick from the flu shot itself. You may have had a bug coming on, or you can have an allergic reation, but this is a myth.

Also, last year's shot was almost 99% effective. They had vaccine from regular flu and swine well represented. True, it has mutated this year and people who have had the shot are still getting flu. It is not even that you are 60% protected. It simply depends on the strain. Yes, you should get the shot, but the earlier the better...October. It takes 2 weeks to start being effective.
Better late than never.

Not a fan of flu

CharlieCat said...

I don't post often but I heard a couple things on the radio that I thought some people might find interesting. I listen to Kid Kraddick in the Morning on the radio every day. For those who don't know, it airs nationwide, not sure what markets, but features 5 hosts who talk about current events, celebrities, etc. Yesterday, they had Abby Lee Miller on. She had a bad phone connection so they only talked to her for about 2 minutes but the hosts commented on how bad the moms on the show were and asked Abby how she deals them. Abby said that unfortunately, because they all have contracts with Lifetime for the show if the moms/daughters violate her contract she cannot ask them to leave and vice versa none of the moms/daughters can leave the studio if Abby makes them mad. I guess that explains why they get away with so much but also that all of the threats to leave to studio or to kick someone out are just hot air.

Second, this morning on Kid Kraddick, they were talking about Nicki Minaj and an interview she gave yesterday regarding her fight with Mariah Carey and Nicki came off sounding like a real b*tch. The hosts were talking about how b*tchy Nicki was and one of them said that Nicki was as bad as "that lady from Jon and Kate". All the hosts started laughing and agreeing and one made a comment about what if the two of them had a reality show together and how horrible that would be.

Anyway, I got a laugh out of it this morning and thought I would share.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...


OK, admin, I am done. I promise not to post any more even tho it is hard for me!! I just want people to be INFORMED. If you disagree with anything I've said, please do some searches and LEARN.


&&&

I happen to agree with you on this issue, but I'm going to ask that you please not imply that people who disagree have not done searches and have not learned. You have to understand just because someone has a different opinion than you doesn't mean they have not done their own research, have not learned, are not well versed on a subject. It's insulting to folks here.

JoyinVirginia said...

Glad you shared your good news Mel!
Charlie Cat, I don't think that radio show is on in my area.. Thank you for posting that info about Dance Moms, and also the joking about Nicki Minaj. Too funny!

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Abby said that unfortunately, because they all have contracts with Lifetime for the show if the moms/daughters violate her contract she cannot ask them to leave and vice versa none of the moms/daughters can leave the studio if Abby makes them mad. I guess that explains why they get away with so much but also that all of the threats to leave to studio or to kick someone out are just hot air.

&&&


That doesn't make sense. Paige, Kelly and Brooke all left.

They're idiots to sign a contract that binds them in such a way. What if Abby started beating the kids or something, they still can't leave? This is why reality t.v. subjects absolutely must be presented when they sign contracts, the shift/imbalance of power between big networks and random citizens inexperienced with entertainment law is obscene. But if an attorney approved such a provision, then that's their own doing. Shouldn't have signed it.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 64

For the Civil War buffs here don't forget Joy alerted us about The Abolitionists. It begins tonight on PBS.

************************************************

I saw it last night.

The Abolitionists was so well made. Thank God for people that refuse to sit back and allow injustices to happen.

I am looking forward to seeing the next installment.

PBS rocks!

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...


I saw it last night.

The Abolitionists was so well made. Thank God for people that refuse to sit back and allow injustices to happen.

I am looking forward to seeing the next installment.


&&&

Yes I thought it was good too. The acting in these things is often sub-par but I thought it was incredible this time, especially the actress who played Angelina Grimké.

I was amazed at how most of these abolitionists were only 21, 22 years old and risking life and limb to spread the message that slavery was unjust. I guess even back then young people thought they were indestructible! :) Looking forward to the next parts.

PatK said...

kateplusmy8
Fixing lights, towel racks, light switches, &other household 'to do's'..well, I'm assisting&learning and happy to cross things off the list!


&&&&&&&

I bet it's more like ordering around and complaining to whomever the sucker is you found to do these repairs for you, Kate. Will you reward him with a loaf of bread or a bowl of yogurt?

CharlieCat said...

Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 152

That doesn't make sense. Paige, Kelly and Brooke all left.

==========
I don't watch the show, but I have caught a few minutes here and there, but that's what Abby said. They are binded by the show contracts. The hosts even commented on how bad that was and she said yes, unfortunately she cannot get rid of anyone. Maybe she cannot ask people to leave but they can leave on their own which isn't what she said but may make more sense?

I couldn't get my profile pic attached to my original comment but I think I have it now. It's a picture of my cat . . . Charlie :)

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Charlie Cat said...

[excerpt]

Second, this morning on Kid Kraddick, they were talking about Nicki Minaj and an interview she gave yesterday regarding her fight with Mariah Carey and Nicki came off sounding like a real b*tch. The hosts were talking about how b*tchy Nicki was and one of them said that Nicki was as bad as "that lady from Jon and Kate". All the hosts started laughing and agreeing and one made a comment about what if the two of them had a reality show together and how horrible that would be.

Anyway, I got a laugh out of it this morning and thought I would share.


************************************************

Kate's famous for something... too bad that it's not for doing a positive thing.

Sadly, Katie's legacy in life will always be what a nasty person she was/is.

#itsshittytobekatieirene



Improbable Dreams said...

PatK said... 155
kateplusmy8
Fixing lights, towel racks, light switches, &other household 'to do's'..well, I'm assisting&learning and happy to cross things off the list!
~~~~~~~~~~

Wha...? Seems to me this is a reprise of a Kate Tweetisode from a while back. Towel racks and light switches?!? How is it that her house falls into this kind of disrepair, again and again?

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Elvis Fan said... 55

@ widowed young, Thank you so much for sharing your story. I couldn't stop the tears. Our stories are so similar. Please accept my condolences on the loss of your husband. I truly understand the shock and the pain you experienced. We both lost not only the love of our lives, but our best friends. That's a really hard hit. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man!

My husband and I had only one child, who was 17 when he died. We were a tight family unit, as I'm sure you were. I only had one child to worry about, you had 4! God Bless you sweetheart,you are brave and strong, although I know we don't feel that way all the time. It's hard to deal with all of those celebrations, events, etc. without them..especially for our kids.. my heart broke for my daughter on her high school graduation day. She just wanted her dad. How I wish I could've fulfilled that wish. I know too, that you wish the same for your kids. They are all that matter. Keep going honey, your kids are blessed to have you!

Please do take good care of yourself. If you need help with depression, please reach out! Happy to hear you've joined WW as well! Would be great to do that get-together in Oct, because I'd really love to meet you, and share some "hogs". LOL Yes, time does help, and like another poster mentioned, our kids aren't anxious for us to start dating again..it's the last thing they're thinking about. It's the last thing I'm thinking about! Take care hon. I'm here for you anytime!

Sorry for the OT everybody.

***********************************************

Elvis Fan, you have such a big, lovely heart.

I'm sorry you lost your dear husband.
May he rest in peace, and may you live your
life happily & peacefully- as he surely would have wanted you to do.

With love,
Pink

P.S. OT all you want.
We're here for you :o)

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Either the house is a cheap dumb always falling apart as these cookie cutter McMansions tend to be, or me-thinks those living in the house are not respecting their environment.

kids first said...

If you have hired sitters, helpers, etc. and the owner is absent quite a bit, I guess you can expect that the house would get harder use. It's more like a public facility or hotel. Or else the homeowner (KK) doesn't really care since its her kids money that bought it.

SeeSaw said...

So we're back to Can-Do Kate. Cooking up homemade yogurt and granola, fixing light fixtures, doing home repairs. In tomorrow's episode, she builds an addition onto the mansion for all of her appliances.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

PatK said... 155

kateplusmy8
Fixing lights, towel racks, light switches, &other household 'to do's'..well, I'm assisting&learning and happy to cross things off the list!


&&&&&&&

I bet it's more like ordering around and complaining to whomever the sucker is you found to do these repairs for you, Kate. Will you reward him with a loaf of bread or a bowl of yogurt?

************************************************

You had better believe it.

I think that when the person from Loews came to install the lights, he or she was bamboozled into doing the other menial tasks in Kate's broken down mansion.

Reward? Isn't Kate's mere presence enough?

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

True, she wanted a camera crew and helpers all in her house and the wear and tear on the house must be significant. NO THANKS.

Friends of mine who pretty much run a business out of their home and are on a septic tank system see it breaking down every couple years. Why? Because the toilet is being flushed four times an hour every hour all day long every day.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...

Can Can-do Kate please write a thank you note?

Working Woman said...

Kate's famous for something... too bad that it's not for doing a positive thing.
*****************

Remember on that relatively recent interview with Kate (Access Hollywood maybe..?) she said that a huge misconception about her is that she is mean, but in reality she doesn't have a mean bone in her body?

I said aloud, "what the.....?"

It's one thing to say, "The show caught me at some less-than-flattering moments which I am sorry about. But there are also good moments, too, that I wish got more focus."

It's another thing for her to talk like she is the sweetheart of all sweethearts when millions of people SAW her mean streak with their own eyes, when she made fun of her husband and children on national television, when she would flip out over the tiniest things, when she displayed zero affection or patience with her brand new puppies, when she threw Jon under the bus after the divorce, etc.

They are not made up stories that a tabloid threw out there, they are things we saw with our own eyes. That is why she will forever have that reputation.

I can't stand when people like Kate just expect others to either completely forget about their history or just rewrite it completely, in a way that makes them look good.

Realitytvkids.com ~ Administrator said...


I can't stand when people like Kate just expect others to either completely forget about their history or just rewrite it completely, in a way that makes them look good.

&&&

Kate does this ALL THE TIME, rewrites history to suit her. Look at how she rewrote the Alaska episode. She actually had the audacity to claim that the children WANTED to leave! She actually said this!

Um, no Kate. We have eyes and ears. The children were loving it, having the time of their lives, were thrilled to be there, and specifically told them we want to STAY until you brow-beat them into it. Tool.

She also said the kids want her to date but when the kids were interviewed on the couch for that episode most of them said they absolutely do not want her to date.

NJGal51 said...

Stop the presses and call the media...I changed a light bulb in my garage yesterday AND painted my kitchen!

Mel - Such great news to start the new year with. May your SIL have a speedy recovery.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 160

Either the house is a cheap dumb always falling apart as these cookie cutter McMansions tend to be, or me-thinks those living in the house are not respecting their environment.

************************************************

I'm pretty sure all those living in the house are not respecting the environment.

I wonder what ever happened to the home fix-its manual that Katie Irene was working on?

Working Woman said...

I wonder if the diligent workers who she is "assisting" with the home repairs will each get a personal thank you, or if they will just get a mass "thank you" tweet, like her fans did.

Working Woman said...

I wonder what ever happened to the home fix-its manual that Katie Irene was working on?

**********************8

Maybe she had to set that project aside to work on her yet-to-be-seen cookbook!

Formerly Duped said...

WW, I also wonder whom Can-do Kate is assisting and if they are her friends or actual repair people.She said she could not keep up with the house.I hope some chump did not volunteer!I bet she broke the light herself and photographed it- looked like a random thing to happen- and who would take a picture?? To show how life is falling apart at her house without people to help and teach Can-do.

CharlieCat said... 149

I watched Dance Moms last night and my name Formerly Duped rings true...Abby brought in an entire new group of girls for her performance team, new moms, and the old moms staged a walk- out with the girls. I think only one girl Sophia Lucia who is apparently a well-known dancer will remain...to fulfill the contract, the girls performed at a a mall, and so had camera time. Just an 'unreal' staged show all round.

A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said...

Working Woman said... 171

I wonder what ever happened to the home fix-its manual that Katie Irene was working on?

**********************8

Maybe she had to set that project aside to work on her yet-to-be-seen cookbook!

***********************************************
***********************************************

Hmmmmmmm... another disaster awaiting...

Bluebird said...

I wonder what ever happened to the home fix-its manual that Katie Irene was working on?
----
Kate never sees anything through to the end, I doubt if she finished it. Same thing goes for her cookbook, children's book, website, and any other projects that were never completed. Just like her meat slicer, bread maker, and soon to be ditched yogurt maker. She's like a child when something is new or a novelty it has her attention but as soon as something else comes up, her enthusiasm sinks. That's exactly how she was with her children. When they were newborn, she thought they were so cute but once the cuteness wore off and they had to be cared for, her interest in them sank.

Dmasy said...

Yesterday, when she was seen yelling on the phone outside Lowe's -- I got it.

She was going through the ever-growing list of handymen who REFUSE to come to her house. She was shouting at all of them that they did not know how to help her.

JoyinVirginia said...

OT, while you are rioting for the Seahawks or whoever your favorite team is, send good thoughts toward RGIII.. He had surgery on the right knee today, according to Washington Post.

aggiemom09121416 said...

Kate was seen yelling into her phone outside Lowe's? for real??
LOL

And Joy, I didn't know RG3 had surgery..I hope he has a full recovery. I watched him play a little bit while he was at Baylor.He seems to be a good kid.

As far as repairing the house, sounds like the kids are being a little too rough.

IDModo said...

I think Kate's light fixture disaster is a prelude to her calling Mike Holmes to come in and solve the problem. He's such a manly man; his children are grown; and he knows how to help her.

Just joshing, but wouldn't that make a great show? Katie screeching about all the things that are wrong with the Mc Mansion and Mike reassuring her he would Make It Right!

If he could keep from pulverizing her with his hammer of course....

Lbelle said...

Mel.....,131:
YAY!! That is just terrific news!! Here's hoping she's well on her way to making a full recovery. HOGS for you and your family!!

NJGal....168:
Bahahahahahahahahaha!! No way! Do you have pics to,prove this unbelievable feat?? I'm Gobsmacked at your handyishness! : /

JoyinVirginia said...

Yes, aggiemom, the Washington Post sports blog has been having updates today quoting a ”close source” and also RGIII send out a tweet thanking fans for support. He went to surgery this morning, reports say his LCL and ACL ligaments are both damaged.
He is a very nice man by all reports, from teammates, friends, family, competitors. Hopefully he will come out stronger after his surgery and rehab.

LB said...

For some reason after I saw the pix of 'broken' light globe, the image of her placing it on the carpet and stomping on it to break it came to my mind. It just looks so much like someone stomped on it or broke it with something because the pieces are sprayed out from middle and there are alot of tiny broken pieces in the middle of the preimeter. Unless it was some incredibly gaint piece of one globe or a really really thin cheap globe, it looks staged to me. If it fell from the ceiling, it would have bounced some on the carpet and a few pieces broken. You cannot say it bounced from the hardwood floor to the carpet because it would have broken on the hardwood floor first before going anywhere. See that not much are on the hardwood floor? I only took one physics class but I'm just saying what I see!

Midnight Madness said...

If, by some chance, your doctor recognizes that a vaccine has made you ill/injured and you are fortunate to get a lawyer to take your case, the MAX monetary amount allowed by law for compensation is $250,000. that's it.

--------------------

There are attorneys whose practice deals exclusively in filing cases under the VICP (Vaccine Injury Compensation Program). Under the Vaccine Act, reasonable attorney fees are paid by the Secretary of Health and Human Services as long as the case is brought in good faith so attorneys are assured of being paid, since this is not out-of-pocket for the plaintiff.

The cap on compensation depends on the vaccine. It is true that the maximum is $250,000 for the seasonal vaccine. However, if there is a death or the vaccine caused a permanent incapacitating injury, the family still may opt out of the vaccine injury program and proceed with claims against the drug manufacturers and perhaps the doctors who gave the vaccine. There is no cap on the amount they could recover from such a claim.

Moreover, the swine flu vaccine (H1N1) is not included in the maximum recovery of $250,000. Filing a claim would come under the CICP program, and if a person has received the H1N1 and has become ill or permanently disabled, there is no cap on the amount he/she could receive.

Personally, I don't trust the flu vaccine. The reaction I had to it was worse than any flu ever was. I'm not going to chance it again. It would just be my luck that I'd be the one to suffer an even more serious reaction the next time. I'll take my chances with the flu. There is just too many unknowns about flu vaccines.

Improbable Dreams said...

LB ~ Agree with your observations & conclusions. Seems so much a staged picture...either that, or she's trying to diminish what could've been a hissy fit. Not that she's ever done that before...Robert H, am I right? ;)

Pity Party said...

Wasn't there something about her throwing oranges at Jon when she was mad and they had to stop filming?

PJ's momma said...

IDModo, Mike Holmes was on an episode of Jon and Kate plus 8, where very expensive solar panels were installed on the roof. She treated him with total disrespect, sneering a couple of times at the camera (as he explained the benefits of the free stuff she was getting), "That's probably mean, huh? Hee hee." Her proudest moment was when she was hoisted on a cherry picker, because she could screech the entire time. She didn't listen to him at all and he had a "WTF" look on his face. It was awful.

Dwindle said...

Off Topic Alert:

I hab a code. Wiff dwippy node, earache, runny eyebawds, sneezies, wiping, bwowe-ing. Dunnt worry, Ah am wearing a one od doze white masks as I type. And Ah wiped my commuter down wid alcohol, too. Ahh Ahh CHOO. BLLLOOWWWWWWWW! soddy bout dat.

JoyinVirginia said...

PJs momma, you said on an ep of J&K+8, Ms Kreider was lifted in a cherry picker? Really?
Ok, y'all who saw the show and saw her non performance in Dancin With Them Thar Stars - is this the reason Ms Kreider got lifted on that whatever it was that lifted her at the end of one of her Tony Torture Sessions? (I just can't call those non performances dancing). At the end the camera caught Tony and the host Tom laughing. Maybe that ep inspired them?

Anonymous said...

I have to ask. Why I wish I knew. However, isn't this the SAME woman who what her first episode without Jon said she wrote a manual to the running of her home? Why do I not believe she's either long since ditched that, seeing as how my, oh my a light fixture is worthy of a tweet? Excuse me? Surely she pays more attention to that then the "Oh, it finally broke I'll fix it now."

Can-Do remember? Frankly I'm honestly surprised that house is still standing with her in it at this point. Kate's not exactly your average divorced mom. Not with her constant ability to tweet most of what should be either a working day or even running errands--without having to find someone to screech at. My goodness she must be so incredibly helpless!

You can make all the organic (ahem, canned) casseroles you want, and collect all the organic eggs you want Kate. I find her inability to do what needs to be done--get a real paying job, not tweet every five minutes but that's probably asking too much.

Save the rest of real women who work for a living your pathetic mediocre unemployed life Kate. I still can't believe she's managed this far and hasn't dialed for help, "Help I'm a reality star with 8 kids, I need someone to show me how to DO this!"

By the way Kate, you ever gete around to hanging up that picture frame yet? What a laugh riot it really is. Free entertainment is about all you're worth these days.

Hope everyone has a good day. Sorry, I just felt like posting. I am off to my mediocre boring life.

AuntieAnn said...

PJ's - That was Steve Thomas. She was very rude to him. IF it had been Mike Holmes, I think IDModo is right - he'd pulverize her with his hammer or throw her off the cherry picker. I think Steve was angry with her but kept himself pretty well in check when he was talking to her. She can make a fool of herself without anyone's help.

I don't know where she gets off thinking she radiates a glow of love and warmth when people get to know her. It's more like a glow of radiation poisoning. The woman is toxic.

All This Is That said...

"If, by some chance, your doctor recognizes that a vaccine has made you ill/injured and you are fortunate to get a lawyer to take your case, the MAX monetary amount allowed by law for compensation is $250,000. that's it."

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
You've omitted a very important fact here. The maximum monetary compensation is %250,000 only if you file under the Vaccine Injury Compensation program. This is advantageous to do because your attorney's fees are covered. However, you do not have to file under this program, but you may bring a suit against the pharmaceutical company and/or the physicians and recovery of damages may well exceed the cap under the compensation program. However, to do so you would be responsible for covering the attorney's fees, which may or may not be recoverable.

PJ's momma said...

AuntieAnn, you are right. Here's a video of what I saw. She is such a WITCH. She puts her finger in the guy's face! When her daughter runs up to her with open arms at the end, she doesn't even acknowledge her. She is weird.
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/videos/renovation-nation-online-clips-steve-takes-kate-for-a-ride.html

I am amazed I have cell reception right now!

Anonymous said...

I happen to agree with you on this issue, but I'm going to ask that you please not imply that people who disagree have not done searches and have not learned. You have to understand just because someone has a different opinion than you doesn't mean they have not done their own research, have not learned, are not well versed on a subject. It's insulting to folks here.
____

Understood, and I apologize. My intent in that statement, and every time I've written it before is this:

Go beyond what mainstream news reports/government officials are telling you (CNN, MSNBC, FOX, NYT, LA TIMES, etc.) and do research for yourself, seeking additional documents. Ask questions. Even of your doctor. Question the "organization" results (CDC, FDA, WHO, etc.).

You need to do what is right for you -- no matter what the decision is -- and the only way to make that decision is through unbiased research where you see the complete documents/statistics in context and with your own eyes.

Again, if I've offended, I apologize.



Working Woman said...

Oyyy she was soooooo rude to Steve Thomas in that Going Green episode!

I had completely forgotten about that. Making fun of him, giving him rude looks. I remember she actually says to him that most of what he says is going to be edited out of the show.

Nope, not a mean bone in that body of hers.

All This Is That said...

"Either the house is a cheap dumb always falling apart as these cookie cutter McMansions tend to be, or me-thinks those living in the house are not respecting their environment."

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I believe this was a custom-built home, not a cookie-cutter spec house in a multiple-house community. No matter how excellent a builder's reputation is, homes do need routine maintenance, especially with a family of nine. I think when she bought that house, all she saw was the "mine, all mine," never considering the amount of maintenance it would require. She thought someone always would be at her beck and call to do whatever needed to be done.

Houses don't take care of themselves. Roofs need repairs, gutters need to be cleaned out. Heating systems need spring and fall inspection, septic systems need routine inspection. I had a septic system for 18 years and it never needed repairs and never malfunctioned, even in a multiple kid household because we were under contract for regular inspection and maintenance. Pumps for the well need replacement as they age. She just never considered this, and now she's crying boo-hoo because things are starting to go wrong. She wanted this home, and she has to pay the piper and deal with it.

AuntieAnn said...

PJ's - After watching that, I'm so glad TLC forced her to go on the SkyJump.

"You realize most of what you just said is going to be edited out". Right there Steve should have said "Okay boys, remove the panels. Let's give them to someone who will appreciate them."

Oh yes and that damn gum chewing jaw of hers. I'll bet he resisted the tempation to reach into her mouth, pull it out and stick it in her hair.

aggiemom09121416 said...

Off Topic Alert:

I hab a code. Wiff dwippy node, earache, runny eyebawds, sneezies, wiping, bwowe-ing. Dunnt worry, Ah am wearing a one od doze white masks as I type. And Ah wiped my commuter down wid alcohol, too. Ahh Ahh CHOO. BLLLOOWWWWWWWW! soddy bout dat.
-----
Dwindle,
You missed your calling. You are Erma Bombeck reincarnated.
And you made me pee my pants.
thanks.
:)

Anonymous said...

Ok this is Bearswife and m
Y second attempt at posting from my phone. Don't know why it is so hard to do. It is just this blog every other one works fine.

Anyway. I watched that clip and I was shocked at how nasty she is. I don't ever watch clips because she irritates me so much. Really. What a nasty bucking bunt she is. I can not fathom why people allow her to get away with that kind of behavior. I would be out of there like a hot turd. I really am feeling hateful towards her.

Sorry guys. That I'm so mad. And that my phone isn't cooperative with this site.

aggiemom09121416 said...

Joy 180....
Thanks for the info about RG3. It's really scary to hear that a talented rookie is already injured. I hope he comes back better and stronger than ever.
I really enjoyed watching him play, and last year's Heisman program. Loved his superman socks, lol.. And his parents are class acts.
:)

SeeSaw said...

Feel better, Dwindle.

I never watched the solar panel episode. How strange that she said what bothered her was all of the men surrounding her. And on the couch interview she said she hated being surrounded/watched by 900 men. Boy she has some issues we haven't begun to explore.

Mary Ann said...

I bet it's more like ordering around and complaining to whomever the sucker is you found to do these repairs for you, Kate. Will you reward him with a loaf of bread or a bowl of yogurt?


God forbid she should reward him with a bowl of her sausage cacciatore!

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