The REAL Coyote Ugly

I had hoped to stay away from “heavy” topics during the month of December and focus instead on more positive, uplifting pieces. But of course, the ugly side of human nature never takes a break. Even during the holidays man’s inhumanity and greed are rarely in short supply.

So here we go…back in the summer, Michael Vick took a lot of heat for betting on dog fighting. Many reasonable people were enraged to learn that this barbaric practice was still alive and well in 21^st century America.

Now I’m learning that my state, along with others, is taking part in the practice of trapping and then selling coyotes and foxes to other states where they are put in fenced enclosures to be chased by packs of dogs. Supposedly, this is to “train” the hunting dogs, but ultimately it results in the death of the foxes and coyotes as they’re torn apart by the dogs.

Oh yeah and let’s not forget that this is entertainment too! How could I forget that part?

“Quick hon, grab me another PBR! That coyote is up against the fence and there’s 6 hungry dogs smellin’ dinner!”

Please, please, please visit the web link I have here for the Humane Society for the United States. Even if you don’t live in one of the states listed at the bottom of the page, contact the DNR offices of those states and tell them you support the Humane Society’s efforts to end this barbaric practice.

http://www.hsus.org/hunt/news/wildlife_penning_exposed.html

 

Christmas Edition of “Getting to know your friends”

I don’t usually do these things, but I’ve been dropping some heavy stuff on ya’ll for awhile now. So, in the spirit of the season I’m lightening it up a bit.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Wrapping paper. Not into DOING the wrapping, but fun to open and pretty to look at.

2. Tree–Real or Artificial?
Real deal baby. We’ve been artificial for years, but I heard a good argument for real having less impact on the environment. There’s nothing like a good rationalization, so we went green again this year and I love it. Beautiful Douglas Fir that fills the house with it’s wonderful fragrance.

3. When do you put Christmas tree up?
Early December. November is for Thanksgiving.

4. When do you take the tree down?
New Year’s Day.

5. Like egg nog?
Not a huge fan, but I’ll have some if it’s offered.

6. Do you have a nativity scene?
Small one.

7. Favorite gift received as a child?
Hard to choose, but loved my Stretch Armstrong and that old football game with the vibrating guys on the metal playing field.

8. Hardest person to buy for?
Father-in-law. He has most everything he wants and so is hard to shop for.

9. Easiest person to buy for?
My youngest son. Just happy to have presents.

10. Worst Christmas gift?
Lottery Tickets.

11. Mail or email Christmas Card?
Mail, but you might not get it until New Years Eve.

12. Favorite Christmas movie?
Wish for Wings that Work, Charlie Brown Christmas, ELF, Believe it or not there is an old X-Mas Twilight Zone episode that I really like called, “Night of the Meek” starring Art Carney. That thing makes me tear up. Also Love Christmas Story and It’s a Wonderful Life.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?
Uh…hello…Santa takes care of all that. Duh!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Yes, I am guilty of re-gifting.

15. Favorite food to eat on Christmas?
Probably Pecan pie. So much great food so little time.

16. Clear or colored tree lights?
I am a traditionalist, so I prefer having real candles on the tree. However, the Fire Department prefers that I like colored lights best. In all seriousness, Christmas is about traditions and memories, so I am still a big fan of the big ol’ colored bulbs we used to put on the trees in the 60s and 70s.

17. Favorite Christmas Song?
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. The Story of Snoopy vs. the Red baron.

18. Travel during Christmas or Stay home?
Usually travel to the in-laws x-mas day.

19. Can you name Santa’s reindeer’s?
If I have to. I like Homer Simpson’s naming of them best.

20. Angel or Star on Tree top?
Santa

21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning?
Kid’s each get one present from us on Christmas Eve. Santa brings the rest Christmas Eve night. I’m surprised I have to keep explaining this to you people.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year?
The commercialism and buy, buy, buy. I heard a commercial that said “don’t stay up too late Thanksgiving Night so you’ll be good and rested to start shopping Friday morning.”

23. Do you attend Christmas Eve services?
We’re Unitarians, so it might be a little different, but yes the Christmas Eve service has become one of our favorite family traditions.

Get out there and “Be Merry”