Wow. I am so glad that this awful book is finally over. Does anyone else feel that way? It is unfortunate that every book cannot be a winner. And this book was for sure awful. I'm glad Eric finally admitted that "technology must serve our needs." I guess he finally realized that technology is a way of modern life and it is here to stay.
But i still think he is a loser. He said sometime they read by the kerosene lamp instead of the electric light and that he can see better. Yeah right. This guy is so bad. Go read what i have to say in our book summary, i'm going to tell everyone how awful this book is.
Sorry Molly, but Cliff gives this book two thumbs down!!
Friday, December 7, 2007
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Chapter 22
I sure do wish i was on the committee that looked at Eric's thesis. I would of writte FAIL in big letters across the top of the page. And i even found out that he is even more sketchy than i thought. He openly admitted to having a couple beers while he was driving his taxi cab around. This guy is nuts. Maybe it was a good thing he was living with the Amish, because that saved him from getting a DUI.
And what a deal did they get from that old man. They got to live there and not pay debt or utilities. I feel sorry for the old dude. He could have gotten way better people than Eric and Mary. I bet they are probably waiting for him to die so they can take all his insurance money.
This couple is just trying to skate through life. They ended up opening a bed and breakfast. That is smart of them. They can let other people stay in their house for a few days, and they can pay the bills. And they have already started brainwashing their kids. They are home schooled and can't watch tv. Those kids are going to be at a severe disadvantage whenever they go out into the real world. Have you ever seen those kids on the Scripps Howard Spelling Bee? Most of those kids are home schooled and they are all psycho. Sure maybe they can spell big words, but they are socially inept.
And if you are still unsure about Eric, how about this? He got scared when he heard a Wal mart might be coming to town! Give me a break. Wal mart is awesome. It creates jobs, generates tax revenue, gives consumers low prices. We better watch out, because this dude is going to end up living in the woods plotting against the government of the United States.
And what a deal did they get from that old man. They got to live there and not pay debt or utilities. I feel sorry for the old dude. He could have gotten way better people than Eric and Mary. I bet they are probably waiting for him to die so they can take all his insurance money.
This couple is just trying to skate through life. They ended up opening a bed and breakfast. That is smart of them. They can let other people stay in their house for a few days, and they can pay the bills. And they have already started brainwashing their kids. They are home schooled and can't watch tv. Those kids are going to be at a severe disadvantage whenever they go out into the real world. Have you ever seen those kids on the Scripps Howard Spelling Bee? Most of those kids are home schooled and they are all psycho. Sure maybe they can spell big words, but they are socially inept.
And if you are still unsure about Eric, how about this? He got scared when he heard a Wal mart might be coming to town! Give me a break. Wal mart is awesome. It creates jobs, generates tax revenue, gives consumers low prices. We better watch out, because this dude is going to end up living in the woods plotting against the government of the United States.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Chapter 21
Ha. Mary is allergic to horses! I can't believe she has been there all this time and did not realize she had allergies. I'm sure their were other horses around besides Isabel. Nonetheless, i guess it was good timing that they were now ending their adventure. But they just said they returned Isabel to the blacksmith. So did they sell her back? Or give her away for free? They weren't really clear about where the horse went.
This part of the book reminded me of the movie Ace Ventura when Ace said "I'm in psychoville and Finkle is the Mayor." I thought that because that is probably exactly how i would of felt. I would have been in such a hurry to get out of there. In fact, i probably would of left the first week. Sure the Millers and the other people were nice...but they were just weird. Not to mention the fact that Eric and Mary are both frauds. Sometimes you just have to accept that two worlds are different. Those people can live life the way they do, and i'll live life the way i do.
Did anyone catch the end of the chapter where he talks about how a little finesse and luck will lead to the right results of his experiment? So what does that mean you ask? By finesse, Eric is basically saying that he is going to continue being a fraud and alter whatever notes he has to make it look like he has gone through some type of never before done experiment. Maybe he wants to be published in a journal, maybe he wants the nobel prize, who knows? But i do know that the dude sucks at life and probably wears jean shorts. If i ever met him...i would have a few words for him.
This part of the book reminded me of the movie Ace Ventura when Ace said "I'm in psychoville and Finkle is the Mayor." I thought that because that is probably exactly how i would of felt. I would have been in such a hurry to get out of there. In fact, i probably would of left the first week. Sure the Millers and the other people were nice...but they were just weird. Not to mention the fact that Eric and Mary are both frauds. Sometimes you just have to accept that two worlds are different. Those people can live life the way they do, and i'll live life the way i do.
Did anyone catch the end of the chapter where he talks about how a little finesse and luck will lead to the right results of his experiment? So what does that mean you ask? By finesse, Eric is basically saying that he is going to continue being a fraud and alter whatever notes he has to make it look like he has gone through some type of never before done experiment. Maybe he wants to be published in a journal, maybe he wants the nobel prize, who knows? But i do know that the dude sucks at life and probably wears jean shorts. If i ever met him...i would have a few words for him.
Chapter 20
So now it looks like Mary is a fraud as well. She has purposely left her car registered in a different state so that she can avoid paying car insurance. Isn't that a little dishonest? If that lady ever wrecked into me, i would be pissed. What if she wrecked into me and i had to go to the hospital and pay thousands of dollars in medical bills. I guess i would just be sorry out of luck. People like her make me sick. I'm glad Florida has laws that say everyone has to have car insurance.
And i sure would like to know where they got that horse. Depending on the breed, horses normally range anywhere between 3000 and 30000 dollars. 700 bucks was a steal. But i don't understand why Eric was so happy about it. He still has to pay for the food and medical stuff for the horse. So it might be cheap now...but it will eventually add up.
The part about the outhouse was funny. I forgot all about that sort of thing. I wish they would have talked about it more. Their are probably all kinds of stories relating to mishaps in the outhouse. Maybe Eric thought it was in better taste not to mention all the details of what goes on in there.
And what is going on with the Pentletons? They are pretty dumb. First they go out and sell their farm without any paperwork. Second, they sell it to some low-lifes that don't have any money. And then they don't even sue the for not paying. And even if they did have the resources, they still would not sue. Are they kidding? They better not go advertising how submissive they are...or else every con artist this side of the Mississippi will be going over there trying to rip them off.
And i sure would like to know where they got that horse. Depending on the breed, horses normally range anywhere between 3000 and 30000 dollars. 700 bucks was a steal. But i don't understand why Eric was so happy about it. He still has to pay for the food and medical stuff for the horse. So it might be cheap now...but it will eventually add up.
The part about the outhouse was funny. I forgot all about that sort of thing. I wish they would have talked about it more. Their are probably all kinds of stories relating to mishaps in the outhouse. Maybe Eric thought it was in better taste not to mention all the details of what goes on in there.
And what is going on with the Pentletons? They are pretty dumb. First they go out and sell their farm without any paperwork. Second, they sell it to some low-lifes that don't have any money. And then they don't even sue the for not paying. And even if they did have the resources, they still would not sue. Are they kidding? They better not go advertising how submissive they are...or else every con artist this side of the Mississippi will be going over there trying to rip them off.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Chapter 19
I wish i had Mary's address so i could send her a letter to let her know that she married a loser. Does he seriously stop and talk to himself about everything he is doing? He thinks about stupid things. Who cares about the origins of the word husband. Does he have nothing else going on inside his brain? And he shouldn't be calling it house-husband. No one says house house wife anymore. The new, politically incorrect, way of saying it is stay at home mom. Or in this case, stay at home dad. Ha! But either way, the dude is still completely lame.
This idea of the family bed is terrible. He said it is the only way to go? Sure maybe people do it in third world countries, but this in the USA! And do they plan on doing that forever? So whenever Hans is 12, and smoking pot, is he still going to be sleeping in the same bed as his parents? We already know that he is going to have problems in life...so i guess the psychological problems will just keep adding up. He is going to get beat up for sure if he goes to public school. Thanks a lot Eric and Mary...thanks for nothing.
I forgot, have i mentioned yet about how much of a fraud Eric is? Oh, i did? Ok. Well here's another thing. He found out that the purr of the car puts the baby to sleep. So what does he do? He drives around even longer to keep him asleep. Correct me if i am wrong, but i would say that is a major violation of his experiment. I sure hope he is not getting government money for it, because whatever results he comes up with are going to be totally void.
This idea of the family bed is terrible. He said it is the only way to go? Sure maybe people do it in third world countries, but this in the USA! And do they plan on doing that forever? So whenever Hans is 12, and smoking pot, is he still going to be sleeping in the same bed as his parents? We already know that he is going to have problems in life...so i guess the psychological problems will just keep adding up. He is going to get beat up for sure if he goes to public school. Thanks a lot Eric and Mary...thanks for nothing.
I forgot, have i mentioned yet about how much of a fraud Eric is? Oh, i did? Ok. Well here's another thing. He found out that the purr of the car puts the baby to sleep. So what does he do? He drives around even longer to keep him asleep. Correct me if i am wrong, but i would say that is a major violation of his experiment. I sure hope he is not getting government money for it, because whatever results he comes up with are going to be totally void.
Chapter 18
When the kids brought over the horse, it got me thinking. The experiment was supposed to be a year. Do the Amish know that? And do the Amish even know that it is an experiment and that they are the guinea pigs? I bet Eric never even told them he was writing a book. How is he going to tell them he is eventually leaving? Is he just going to say see ya, don't want to be ya? So far it looks like everyone in the community is planning for the next year's crops. They probably think Eric and Mary are there for good. I guess they are in for a big surprise.
Then the chapter talks more about insurance again. Not surprisingly, Mary didn't have insurance anymore. Apparently the couple would not have been able to go on the adventure if they had kept the insurance. But that was a risky decision. They didn't know how things were going to turn out. They didn't even have an ultrasound. I can't believe that couple is so irresponsible that they gamble with the welfare of their child. After i call the IRS, and Dateline NBC, i'm going to have to call child protective services.
And it Eric retarded or what? He was supposed to go get the midwife at 5 minute intervals between the contractions. But what does he do? He just sits around and looks at his watch, counting the time. What an idiot. If you give this family five years, they will probably be divorced and the kid will be a runaway. And his name...Hans? Are they serious? This is not 1900's Germany. I think they could have come come up with something a little more modern. If they had a girl, i bet that would have named it something like Gertrude, or Martha, or Ethel.
Then the chapter talks more about insurance again. Not surprisingly, Mary didn't have insurance anymore. Apparently the couple would not have been able to go on the adventure if they had kept the insurance. But that was a risky decision. They didn't know how things were going to turn out. They didn't even have an ultrasound. I can't believe that couple is so irresponsible that they gamble with the welfare of their child. After i call the IRS, and Dateline NBC, i'm going to have to call child protective services.
And it Eric retarded or what? He was supposed to go get the midwife at 5 minute intervals between the contractions. But what does he do? He just sits around and looks at his watch, counting the time. What an idiot. If you give this family five years, they will probably be divorced and the kid will be a runaway. And his name...Hans? Are they serious? This is not 1900's Germany. I think they could have come come up with something a little more modern. If they had a girl, i bet that would have named it something like Gertrude, or Martha, or Ethel.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Chapter 17
Why would some stranger give Eric for sorhum he doesn't even want? So just because someone looks pitfall, everyone should feel sorry and give out money. Maybe Eric has been taking advice from the local bum who sits at the stop sign by the Tennessee Walmart. I hate bums. I rarely give money to them. Why can't they just go work at McDonalds or somewhere? I bet it is because they are lazy and want free hand outs. Early this spring, me and a friend went to the offramp of I 10 and Monroe with a sign begging for money (look at my Facebook for pictures)...and we made about four dollars in one hour. We got easy money for sitting there doing nothing. So if people would stop giving out handouts, maybe the bums will go away.
And does Eric not have any manners at all? He thinks its ok to just call up that couple and invite himself over for a game of cards. The couple had offered to play sometime...not for him to just invite himself over whenever. If i was that couple, i would of told Eric that he needs a reality check. Eric is turning into more of a creepy guy every chapter. It seemed like he had a pretty fun time working, alone, with Caleb...who is 13. Do you see where i'm going with this? Maybe after i call the IRS, i should call Chris Hansen with Dateline NBC. I bet they would love to do a To Catch A Predator show in Amishville USA. It's never been done before. And Eric definitely seems like the type. He said it himself... he couldn't work anymore because it was so dark outside, but he stayed because he was having such a good time with his new 13 year old friend. Parents...lock your doors.
And does Eric not have any manners at all? He thinks its ok to just call up that couple and invite himself over for a game of cards. The couple had offered to play sometime...not for him to just invite himself over whenever. If i was that couple, i would of told Eric that he needs a reality check. Eric is turning into more of a creepy guy every chapter. It seemed like he had a pretty fun time working, alone, with Caleb...who is 13. Do you see where i'm going with this? Maybe after i call the IRS, i should call Chris Hansen with Dateline NBC. I bet they would love to do a To Catch A Predator show in Amishville USA. It's never been done before. And Eric definitely seems like the type. He said it himself... he couldn't work anymore because it was so dark outside, but he stayed because he was having such a good time with his new 13 year old friend. Parents...lock your doors.
Chapter 16
I'm glad that fall finally arrives in this chapter. I was tired of all the complaining about the heat and work and blah blah blah. It was funny when Mary snapped at Eric for always writing in his journal. I don't understand it though. Mary made it seem like he wrote in the journal all the time. But so far, from what i've read in this poorly written and mildly entertaining book...it seems like he never wrote anything. But hey, maybe that is just me.
I also learned that the couple had very little marketing skills. When they tried selling pumpkins, the only advertising they did was put up a sign over the mailbox. That just isn't going to cut it. I guess someone must of told them to move the sign out by the highway. I guess it worked because they eventually sold all the pumpkins. They say they got about a thousand dollars for the pumpkins. But that brings up another issue. Taxes. Do all those Amish people pay zero taxes? Do they even know what taxes are? And how can the IRS even go after them? Their are no records in place to know who has sold how much of what. It looks to me like these people are living in America for free. Well news flash...freedom isn't free. So, maybe if i keep reading, i can find out who they are and call uncle sam to go after them.
And it looks like they are getting ready for a baby. And boy do i feel sorry for that kid. I would hate to have a couple of hippie parents that live in an Amish community. Eric and Mary better start saving money now because they are going to need a really good therapist for that kid.
I also learned that the couple had very little marketing skills. When they tried selling pumpkins, the only advertising they did was put up a sign over the mailbox. That just isn't going to cut it. I guess someone must of told them to move the sign out by the highway. I guess it worked because they eventually sold all the pumpkins. They say they got about a thousand dollars for the pumpkins. But that brings up another issue. Taxes. Do all those Amish people pay zero taxes? Do they even know what taxes are? And how can the IRS even go after them? Their are no records in place to know who has sold how much of what. It looks to me like these people are living in America for free. Well news flash...freedom isn't free. So, maybe if i keep reading, i can find out who they are and call uncle sam to go after them.
And it looks like they are getting ready for a baby. And boy do i feel sorry for that kid. I would hate to have a couple of hippie parents that live in an Amish community. Eric and Mary better start saving money now because they are going to need a really good therapist for that kid.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Chapter 15
Wow...do i have a lot to say about this chapter. What is the deal with all the psychology stuff? What kind of education does Eric have with that? I think he just knew a few buzz words and wanted to seem like he knew what he was talking about. And although psychology isn't technology, i would think the Amish wouldn't be interested in it. I thought they liked living in the 90's....the 1890's i mean.
I'm glad to see those people have some normal things in life. Like ice cream. But it's probably not as good as Hagen Das.
And here i go again complaining about Eric. I've counted about seven times so far in this book about how fake he is. Well here is number eight. What is he doing with a digital watch? He was working in the field and wanted to check the times of how much progress they were making. But the last time i checked, a digital watch fell into the category of modern technology. ...what a fraud.
The mention of Charlie Chaplin's movie , Modern Times was funny. I saw a clip of it last year in class and it was not bad. It was just a movie making fun of how industry was changing. The scene i saw was with Charlie on an assembly line and pretty much everything went wrong. So anyway, i was glad that i could relate to what he was talking about.
And i finally got to see how dumb Edward was. He stuck his finger into the sewing machine and it got caught. What a moron. And apparently a couple of his other fingers were already messed up from a meat grinder. I think maybe Edward rode the short bus when he was in school. Oh wait, they don't have those. But still...pretty dumb.
I'm glad to see those people have some normal things in life. Like ice cream. But it's probably not as good as Hagen Das.
And here i go again complaining about Eric. I've counted about seven times so far in this book about how fake he is. Well here is number eight. What is he doing with a digital watch? He was working in the field and wanted to check the times of how much progress they were making. But the last time i checked, a digital watch fell into the category of modern technology. ...what a fraud.
The mention of Charlie Chaplin's movie , Modern Times was funny. I saw a clip of it last year in class and it was not bad. It was just a movie making fun of how industry was changing. The scene i saw was with Charlie on an assembly line and pretty much everything went wrong. So anyway, i was glad that i could relate to what he was talking about.
And i finally got to see how dumb Edward was. He stuck his finger into the sewing machine and it got caught. What a moron. And apparently a couple of his other fingers were already messed up from a meat grinder. I think maybe Edward rode the short bus when he was in school. Oh wait, they don't have those. But still...pretty dumb.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Chapter 14
So this is another reason why Eric should not be doing his experiment. He and some other people were out doing manual labor and Eric got really hot. They were in the midst of a heat wave. Although he was hot, he continued to work. And then eventually had heatstroke. This was pretty dumb. If he wasn't feeling great, he should of taken a break. I'm sure the Amish people already think he's a loser. Their is no reason for him to continue trying to impress them. Why should he care what they think about him? After it was over, he figured out that the whole thing was caused because of the week long trip where he had been reexposed to air conditioning. So basically his body could not properly adjust to the new temperatures. But i blame him for that. He deviated from his experiment. He wanted to live like the Amish...but then he goes and drives in a car for a week. That is pretty lame.
And i sure hope these Amish people are not registered to vote. They are getting more and more communist everyday. They said that people had been talking about making eggs illegal because they had too much cholesterol. And one dude suggested that it should be illegal if you do not exercise? Are these people serious? I agree that people should exercise and watch what they eat...but if they choose not to-that is their right!!! This is the United States of America. Here's an idea, maybe those people should go open an Amish farm down there in Cuba. They would fit in great. From what i hear, Cuba is still stuck in the 1950's because of all the trade embargos. So really, they should call up Fidel and ask for asylum in their new country!!
And i sure hope these Amish people are not registered to vote. They are getting more and more communist everyday. They said that people had been talking about making eggs illegal because they had too much cholesterol. And one dude suggested that it should be illegal if you do not exercise? Are these people serious? I agree that people should exercise and watch what they eat...but if they choose not to-that is their right!!! This is the United States of America. Here's an idea, maybe those people should go open an Amish farm down there in Cuba. They would fit in great. From what i hear, Cuba is still stuck in the 1950's because of all the trade embargos. So really, they should call up Fidel and ask for asylum in their new country!!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Chapter 13
Wow, am i a genius or what? I just said in my last blog how would they call 911? And now we have the answer...pay phones. These people are a dying breed. I say give them 20 more years and all of them will have modern technology. It's good to see that they are all not completely weird. But still, if i was there, i would be calling them out. They say they can't have personal telephones, but they get around that by using pay phones at the store? Isn't that a little dishonest. So yea, if i was there, i would be calling all of them a bunch of hypocrites.
The town council seems like a joke. I didn't really see much organization with it. Rules and procedures did not seem very defined either. Maybe i should go down there and attempt a coup of their government. That would be great. President Cliff.
And again, Eric and Mary jump in the car and go on a trip. The description of this book is a fraud. The back cover talks about how they flipped the switch on technology. Yea right. This couple is not setting a very good example.
It's funny when they find that town. They like it but the only problem is that their is no college. Eric wonders what he will do for a living? But wait, did he forget, he can use work as a dorm as currency,right? Maybe he can go to the grocery store and wash the manager's car in exchange for milk, bread, and other stuff? Do you see where i am going with this? The Amish way of thinking just does not work. That's why noone does it anymore. I guess the few people that are still around...just haven't gotten the memo yet.
The town council seems like a joke. I didn't really see much organization with it. Rules and procedures did not seem very defined either. Maybe i should go down there and attempt a coup of their government. That would be great. President Cliff.
And again, Eric and Mary jump in the car and go on a trip. The description of this book is a fraud. The back cover talks about how they flipped the switch on technology. Yea right. This couple is not setting a very good example.
It's funny when they find that town. They like it but the only problem is that their is no college. Eric wonders what he will do for a living? But wait, did he forget, he can use work as a dorm as currency,right? Maybe he can go to the grocery store and wash the manager's car in exchange for milk, bread, and other stuff? Do you see where i am going with this? The Amish way of thinking just does not work. That's why noone does it anymore. I guess the few people that are still around...just haven't gotten the memo yet.
Chapter 12
Chapter twelve shows us why these people could never live in a capitalist society. On the first page they say that work is their form of currency. What a bunch of bull. Could you imagine the United States not using currency. Maybe in a perfect utopia that idea might work, but not in real life. They are forgetting one key fact...some people are just plain lazy.
And how about the joke about the hot dog? The dude apologized to Eric because the Bible has a verse about not making jokes. Give me a break. I'm sure Jesus had a sense of humor. I would not want to live in Amishville if everyone there was so uptight that they can't take a joke. Seriously, they should lighten up.
It's good to see at least some of those people have exposure to the real world. Cornelius mentioned how he got to watch a TV during a stay at the hospital a way long time ago. It sounded like he watched not very good shows, but hey, at least he finally got to see a magic picture box.
Finally, this lady Edna seems like a moron. She has people feeling her stomach to make sure the baby is in the right position? Come on. I really doubt that you can check on the welfare of a baby just by doing that. I mentioned before about how sudden medical problems can arise. If she cares about her baby at all, she should deliver the baby in a hospital with trained medical staff doing it the right way. It is laughable to think that a couple of common people can safely and efficiently deliver a baby on their own. And another thing, since they don't have telephones, what happens if something goes wrong? How are they going to call 911?
And how about the joke about the hot dog? The dude apologized to Eric because the Bible has a verse about not making jokes. Give me a break. I'm sure Jesus had a sense of humor. I would not want to live in Amishville if everyone there was so uptight that they can't take a joke. Seriously, they should lighten up.
It's good to see at least some of those people have exposure to the real world. Cornelius mentioned how he got to watch a TV during a stay at the hospital a way long time ago. It sounded like he watched not very good shows, but hey, at least he finally got to see a magic picture box.
Finally, this lady Edna seems like a moron. She has people feeling her stomach to make sure the baby is in the right position? Come on. I really doubt that you can check on the welfare of a baby just by doing that. I mentioned before about how sudden medical problems can arise. If she cares about her baby at all, she should deliver the baby in a hospital with trained medical staff doing it the right way. It is laughable to think that a couple of common people can safely and efficiently deliver a baby on their own. And another thing, since they don't have telephones, what happens if something goes wrong? How are they going to call 911?
Friday, November 16, 2007
Chapter 11
What a funny chapter. I felt so bad for these kids because they didn't have a clue about dating. When the guys had the kool aid and cookies, they had a perfect chance to talk to some ladies...but what did they do- nothing. Maybe they were just thirsty, but they still coulda tried to make small talk. Eric compared them to guys at a seventh grade dance. I remember how that was in seventh grade, so i can only imagine that it was even more weird with these 18 year olds. That is pretty sad, the teens are mature in every aspect..except sex stuff. Maybe if they went to a local high school they would be exposed to sex ed.
I liked the idea of Rumspringa. It's a good opportunity for the kids to go out in the world and see what things are really like. It is unfair to raise them in a shell their entire lives without be exposed to the way things really are. They need to be exposed to other factors outside of lala land. For example, if terrorist decided to blow up USA, they wouldnt care about the Amish community either. So my point is, the Amish should be aware of world event and that their are bad people out there that want to hurt America. I think the Amish might be a little stupid, they might think that just because they live in a small community and mind their own business, they will be safe--but that is just plain incorrect.
The last funny thing i saw was the part about selling drugs in Lancaster. Can you imagine that? An Amish guy with a long beard on a buggie going up to a corner and saying "Hey bro, Are you holding? Let me get a half-eighth." Hahaha. I never would have suspected that some Amish citizens had a nose like a hoover vacuum. Now that's something you don't see everyday.
I liked the idea of Rumspringa. It's a good opportunity for the kids to go out in the world and see what things are really like. It is unfair to raise them in a shell their entire lives without be exposed to the way things really are. They need to be exposed to other factors outside of lala land. For example, if terrorist decided to blow up USA, they wouldnt care about the Amish community either. So my point is, the Amish should be aware of world event and that their are bad people out there that want to hurt America. I think the Amish might be a little stupid, they might think that just because they live in a small community and mind their own business, they will be safe--but that is just plain incorrect.
The last funny thing i saw was the part about selling drugs in Lancaster. Can you imagine that? An Amish guy with a long beard on a buggie going up to a corner and saying "Hey bro, Are you holding? Let me get a half-eighth." Hahaha. I never would have suspected that some Amish citizens had a nose like a hoover vacuum. Now that's something you don't see everyday.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Chapter 10
It is nice to see that even weird people like that have arguments too. This was the first we got to see one. Apparntly Bill and his wife were arguing about dinner in their kitchen. It was described as a heated argument...but it didn't appear very heated by my standards. I was also glad to see other somewhat normal people emerge. Mr. Miller's son in law, as well as Bill, were at one time living in modern society. I have no idea why they would choose their current status over civilization. I bet civilization could almost be like drugs for the young kids who have never seen it. If they went out in the world and saw modern technology just one time, i bet they would leave their house in two seconds.
I suppose Eric was happy to participate in the Barn raising. I would rather stay home and sleep. But for the purposes of his experiment, he probably wanted to take in the full experience. The diagrams of the barn were somewhat interesting. But the pictures themselves were limited to a small structure. It is impressive that they can build that. But you will never see them build a high rise building. It is obvious that they have talent. And i'm sure they could do so much more with their skills if they lived in a modern society.
And what is the deal with the Kool Aid. It seems like every chapter their is at least one thing that those people do that deviates from their expected lifestyle. Where did they get the kool aid? Did they go to the local WalMart and buy it along with everything else in their kitchen? I can't wait until the next chapter, maybe they will go install a fax machine in the barn!
I suppose Eric was happy to participate in the Barn raising. I would rather stay home and sleep. But for the purposes of his experiment, he probably wanted to take in the full experience. The diagrams of the barn were somewhat interesting. But the pictures themselves were limited to a small structure. It is impressive that they can build that. But you will never see them build a high rise building. It is obvious that they have talent. And i'm sure they could do so much more with their skills if they lived in a modern society.
And what is the deal with the Kool Aid. It seems like every chapter their is at least one thing that those people do that deviates from their expected lifestyle. Where did they get the kool aid? Did they go to the local WalMart and buy it along with everything else in their kitchen? I can't wait until the next chapter, maybe they will go install a fax machine in the barn!
Chapter 9
I'm glad to see these people finally went to church. So far all i have seen is working and living off the land. It's about time they go to church. I don't think i would like that kinda church though. The way they preach doesn't seem that great. And the music sounds just plain awful. It took them ten minutes just to sing one hymn? Come on. We have some long songs in our church...but they certainly aren't ten minutes. Maybe the head preacher guy should take a different approach to spreading God's message. Even Eric noted that several rows of old dudes were nodding their heads and snoring. It was like a shooting gallery, everyones heads bobbing up and down....Again, my church is pretty boring, but not enough to put you to sleep. I think Bishop Henry needs a reality check.
This whole church adventure also brought up another issue. During the service, a kid starting crying and the parent went outside to spank her. The crowd counted ten spanks! Don't get me wrong, i am all for spanking kids. But ten spanks for crying in church seems a little excessive. So, i know things are done differently in their community, but i wonder if their are any government agencies looking out for the welfare of the kids? If the parents want to live with no technology- fine. But their comes a point when discipling your kids crosses the line and becomes child abuse. Because the community is so close knit, it would be almost impossible to report any ytpe of misconduct to the authorities.
And i got another laugh out of the miniskirt ordeal. Mary said that any dress that is higher than the ankles is a miniskirt? That is rediculous. I am sure some old dude is gonna say "Hey Jebediah, check out the ankles on that broad." Again...purely rediculous.
This whole church adventure also brought up another issue. During the service, a kid starting crying and the parent went outside to spank her. The crowd counted ten spanks! Don't get me wrong, i am all for spanking kids. But ten spanks for crying in church seems a little excessive. So, i know things are done differently in their community, but i wonder if their are any government agencies looking out for the welfare of the kids? If the parents want to live with no technology- fine. But their comes a point when discipling your kids crosses the line and becomes child abuse. Because the community is so close knit, it would be almost impossible to report any ytpe of misconduct to the authorities.
And i got another laugh out of the miniskirt ordeal. Mary said that any dress that is higher than the ankles is a miniskirt? That is rediculous. I am sure some old dude is gonna say "Hey Jebediah, check out the ankles on that broad." Again...purely rediculous.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Chapter 8
I don't understand the deal with the milk. They make such a commotion about not having enough places to store the milk. Apparently now that they are more skilled, they can get two gallons instead of one out of a cow. But if they have more than they need, why not just cut back on production? morons. If they are all about conservation and what not...they should stop pumping out so much milk.
You would think the Brende's would realize that since they don't have technology..that also means they don't have an alarm system on their shed...i mean house. Because of that, Amos almost walked in on the couple after a night of hookin up. They were "clothed only in sheets"? That's hilarious. What a bunch of hippies. Another thing this chapter brought up is prenatal care. I would not want my kid being delivered by some long bearded guy in a barn. I would prefer my wife to have a nice, clean, comfortable, and safe hospital room. I'm sure it is possible to deliver babies in barns. But with today's medicine, so many simple problems can be avoided with a quick checkup at an OBGYN.
The couple also finally did something right. They started to look at other places to live. I guess they finally realized that Amishville USA is not where they wanted to be forever. If anything, i think Mary will crack before Eric. Eric is all about doing his stupid experiment. And Mary is just along for the ride. So now that a kid is going to be in the picture, maybe she will wise up and take a trip back to reality.
You would think the Brende's would realize that since they don't have technology..that also means they don't have an alarm system on their shed...i mean house. Because of that, Amos almost walked in on the couple after a night of hookin up. They were "clothed only in sheets"? That's hilarious. What a bunch of hippies. Another thing this chapter brought up is prenatal care. I would not want my kid being delivered by some long bearded guy in a barn. I would prefer my wife to have a nice, clean, comfortable, and safe hospital room. I'm sure it is possible to deliver babies in barns. But with today's medicine, so many simple problems can be avoided with a quick checkup at an OBGYN.
The couple also finally did something right. They started to look at other places to live. I guess they finally realized that Amishville USA is not where they wanted to be forever. If anything, i think Mary will crack before Eric. Eric is all about doing his stupid experiment. And Mary is just along for the ride. So now that a kid is going to be in the picture, maybe she will wise up and take a trip back to reality.
Chapter 7
This was another short chapter where Eric and Mary don't really do anything. After a day of working, they sit on their front porch and read a book. This is definitely not the way i would want to live life. My idea of entertainment is not sitting outside reading a book. After i get finished with a day's work, i would enjoy watching the news and eating some type of fast food dinner. You would have to pay me to go through this experiment.
Again, it was a pretty boring chapter, and just when i thought things were going to get good...it didn't. When they saw the spark in the kitchen...and then another. I got excited. Finally i thought, an explosion? or maybe a fire for sure? I was thinking it had to be something that would get me more interested in this book. But to my disappointment... it was only a couple of fire flys. Big deal.
I also saw more of the hypocracy of this book. Like i said before, these people pick and choose how traditional they are going to be. ...and then we learn that the Minimites are now using flashlights? Give me a break. What a scam. The last time i checked, batteries were considered modern technology. This book needs a new title. Because they are certainly NOT flipping the switch on technology.
Finally, this whole thing with fast time and slow time? I don't know what they are talking about. I read it twice and it doesn't make sense. All i know is regular time. These crazy people are making things more complicated than they are. Imagine if you told someone you will meet them somewhere at 6o clock. To which they reply, "Is that fast time or slow time?" You would probably be like- WTF? So yea...these people are very....odd.
Again, it was a pretty boring chapter, and just when i thought things were going to get good...it didn't. When they saw the spark in the kitchen...and then another. I got excited. Finally i thought, an explosion? or maybe a fire for sure? I was thinking it had to be something that would get me more interested in this book. But to my disappointment... it was only a couple of fire flys. Big deal.
I also saw more of the hypocracy of this book. Like i said before, these people pick and choose how traditional they are going to be. ...and then we learn that the Minimites are now using flashlights? Give me a break. What a scam. The last time i checked, batteries were considered modern technology. This book needs a new title. Because they are certainly NOT flipping the switch on technology.
Finally, this whole thing with fast time and slow time? I don't know what they are talking about. I read it twice and it doesn't make sense. All i know is regular time. These crazy people are making things more complicated than they are. Imagine if you told someone you will meet them somewhere at 6o clock. To which they reply, "Is that fast time or slow time?" You would probably be like- WTF? So yea...these people are very....odd.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Chapter 6
This is the part of the book where Eric goes crazy. Because they have no electricity, they have no refridgerator. And because they have no refridgerator, they can't save food for left-overs. So one day Eric comes home and gets mad because Mary has not made food. With technology, they were a loving couple with few problems. Without technology, tensions rise and the couple is more on edge. Who knows, maybe later, Eric might slap Mary around a few times.
But anyway, the problem was soon resolved when Eric tried keeping the food fresh by keeping it in jars in the spring water. He seems impressed by his discovery, but what is he going to do in mid summer? The water might be ok for the winter months, but in summer they are going to be back to the old way. I say they should give up now and go back to civilization. I would have left after Day 1.
The method of keeping ice is a shed with sawdust was pretty smart. I guess since they have no tv or internet, they have a lot of time to just sit around and think of new ideas. It is kinda like inmates in prison who just sit around thinking about how to escape- its the same principle...no technology means your mind has a lot more time to wonder. But i am fine with that trade off. I like tv and internet. I think its good to have external sources to stimulate the mind. If you put a person in solitare confinement...sure they might have a lot of time to think, but they will also have a lot of time to go crazy. So, it is best to keep technology and maybe read a book every now and then...that's the best way to stay mentally healthy.
But anyway, the problem was soon resolved when Eric tried keeping the food fresh by keeping it in jars in the spring water. He seems impressed by his discovery, but what is he going to do in mid summer? The water might be ok for the winter months, but in summer they are going to be back to the old way. I say they should give up now and go back to civilization. I would have left after Day 1.
The method of keeping ice is a shed with sawdust was pretty smart. I guess since they have no tv or internet, they have a lot of time to just sit around and think of new ideas. It is kinda like inmates in prison who just sit around thinking about how to escape- its the same principle...no technology means your mind has a lot more time to wonder. But i am fine with that trade off. I like tv and internet. I think its good to have external sources to stimulate the mind. If you put a person in solitare confinement...sure they might have a lot of time to think, but they will also have a lot of time to go crazy. So, it is best to keep technology and maybe read a book every now and then...that's the best way to stay mentally healthy.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Chapter 5
What a bunch of hypocrites. I didn't realize it until this chapter. I thought the Amish were all about no technology and living off the land. But if you think about it, everything they use is technology. The horse buggies, the canning utensils, everything! They may not require electricity, but they are still forms of technology-they are devices to make their lives easier. And who draws the line for technology? Who says one thing is ok but another is not? These people are so phony.
I also didn't think about the dangers of Amish life. When Eric first tried to use the cultipacker, he almost lost control of the horse. He coulda been hurt big time. And how about when he was on his bike? He was almost crushed by a stampede of cattle. Luckily only his bike got messed up. He needs a reality check...just because he is in Amishville USA, does not mean that he is safe from everything. I guess he never saw that movie- City Slickers.
I was surprise that the Miller kids were laughing when they found out that Eric had almost been killed during his adventure. If i were him, i would of punched those little punks. He was obviously angry with them, but i guess he wanted to keep everything peaceful. At least Mr. Miller seemed somewhat sympathetic to the whole situation.
Oh, back to the whole hypocrite thing...even Eric is fitting right in. He said he wouldn't use his car only in cases where it was absolutely neccessary. So what about when he drove it to look for the water spring. I'm pretty sure he could of walked there. Everyone in this book is so fake. Well, i think Mary is ok for now, but let's wait a couple more chapters and we can see how fake she turns out to be.
I also didn't think about the dangers of Amish life. When Eric first tried to use the cultipacker, he almost lost control of the horse. He coulda been hurt big time. And how about when he was on his bike? He was almost crushed by a stampede of cattle. Luckily only his bike got messed up. He needs a reality check...just because he is in Amishville USA, does not mean that he is safe from everything. I guess he never saw that movie- City Slickers.
I was surprise that the Miller kids were laughing when they found out that Eric had almost been killed during his adventure. If i were him, i would of punched those little punks. He was obviously angry with them, but i guess he wanted to keep everything peaceful. At least Mr. Miller seemed somewhat sympathetic to the whole situation.
Oh, back to the whole hypocrite thing...even Eric is fitting right in. He said he wouldn't use his car only in cases where it was absolutely neccessary. So what about when he drove it to look for the water spring. I'm pretty sure he could of walked there. Everyone in this book is so fake. Well, i think Mary is ok for now, but let's wait a couple more chapters and we can see how fake she turns out to be.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Chapter 4
It's funny how these hippies are all about Earth and mother nature....but then mother nature screws them over by flooding their yard. And it seems like the Millers are just going to be babysitters for this entire book. What would Eric and Mary do without them? They would be lost. I hope the Millers at least got some royalties from this book.
So far i have yet to see a plot for this book. The most interesting thing in this chapter was the 2 page conversation about facial hair! That's pretty awful. I really don't care what the latest Amish trends are regarding trimming your beard. Maybe i'll get lucky and the Miller's will turn into space aliens and this book will start to get good. To a degree, i guess you could already call them aliens. Think about it...they are very different from the rest of us. We don't know much about them. And we think they are weird.
So is it just me, or does anyone else agree??
So far i have yet to see a plot for this book. The most interesting thing in this chapter was the 2 page conversation about facial hair! That's pretty awful. I really don't care what the latest Amish trends are regarding trimming your beard. Maybe i'll get lucky and the Miller's will turn into space aliens and this book will start to get good. To a degree, i guess you could already call them aliens. Think about it...they are very different from the rest of us. We don't know much about them. And we think they are weird.
So is it just me, or does anyone else agree??
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Chapter 3
"Many hands make light work?" Give me a break. They should say "Technology makes light work." I just don't understand their way of life. Sure they are able to sustain themselves, but do they contribute to society at all-NO. I got a laugh out of the description of the Jones' house..."a rustic two story dwelling"...why don't they just call it what it is- a dump.
And i don't know what version of the Bible Mr. Miller is using, but some of his thoughts seem incorrect. He said the Bible says that all women are required to wear head coverings? I don't think i've heard that before- maybe he has the wrong religion. And what about keeping the sabbath day holy? He says he switches thigns around so he can worship on Saturday and then work on Sunday. I don't think God said in the 10 commands "Worship on whatever day is convenient for your schedule." ...Mr. Miller is losing credibility ...big time.
It also occured to me that the Miller's are doing their children a disservice. Eric talks about the family's happy and tranquil life, but how do we know that is what the kids want? They could grow up 10 years from now and decide they want to go to college, and experience the real world. If that happens, the kids will have no money, no college fund, nothing. I think it is pretty selfish of the parents to just assume that all of their descendants will live an Amish life forever.
And i don't know what version of the Bible Mr. Miller is using, but some of his thoughts seem incorrect. He said the Bible says that all women are required to wear head coverings? I don't think i've heard that before- maybe he has the wrong religion. And what about keeping the sabbath day holy? He says he switches thigns around so he can worship on Saturday and then work on Sunday. I don't think God said in the 10 commands "Worship on whatever day is convenient for your schedule." ...Mr. Miller is losing credibility ...big time.
It also occured to me that the Miller's are doing their children a disservice. Eric talks about the family's happy and tranquil life, but how do we know that is what the kids want? They could grow up 10 years from now and decide they want to go to college, and experience the real world. If that happens, the kids will have no money, no college fund, nothing. I think it is pretty selfish of the parents to just assume that all of their descendants will live an Amish life forever.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Chapter 2
Their are a couple things going on in this capter. Eric and Mary finally moved into their new home, which i found surprising. Before starting this book, i just assumed that they would be living in a huge house with other Amish people- i didn't think 2 newcomers would get their own house. The hospitality of the Miller family was predictable. The Miller's cleaned the house and helped get the couple settled-that was not a surprise at all. Every sterotype of Amish people involves them as being nice, non agressive people.
It was nice to see a little history inlcluded in the chapter. The part about the Amish origins and whatnot...i never knew that. Oh, the part about the lawnmower was great. If i was Eric in that situation, i woulda told Mr. Miller "See ya, don't wanna be ya!" VH1's show Best Week Ever has a part where they have upgrade/downgrade...well, in this situation, going to a super old push lawnmower...thats a huge downgrade. The same thing is true with the washing machine-big downgrade. Technology has a purpose, it is supposed to make life easier/better. These weirdos keep going backward in time. Before you know it, they will be like Adam and Eve and just walk around naked. So far, i have not been persuaded to go Amish.
And what's with Mr. Miller saying "We're lazy people." I would not expect to hear that from any Amish person....maybe he just didn't want to deal with all that poop. Oh, and what's the deal with all the Miller kids. I lost count ...their are so many. But i guess with no technology or electricity...the only thing left to do is hook up. (hmm...maybe i will go Amish).
It was nice to see a little history inlcluded in the chapter. The part about the Amish origins and whatnot...i never knew that. Oh, the part about the lawnmower was great. If i was Eric in that situation, i woulda told Mr. Miller "See ya, don't wanna be ya!" VH1's show Best Week Ever has a part where they have upgrade/downgrade...well, in this situation, going to a super old push lawnmower...thats a huge downgrade. The same thing is true with the washing machine-big downgrade. Technology has a purpose, it is supposed to make life easier/better. These weirdos keep going backward in time. Before you know it, they will be like Adam and Eve and just walk around naked. So far, i have not been persuaded to go Amish.
And what's with Mr. Miller saying "We're lazy people." I would not expect to hear that from any Amish person....maybe he just didn't want to deal with all that poop. Oh, and what's the deal with all the Miller kids. I lost count ...their are so many. But i guess with no technology or electricity...the only thing left to do is hook up. (hmm...maybe i will go Amish).
Monday, October 15, 2007
Chapter 1
I thought the prologue was a little far fetched. When i was in high school in Alabama, i worked at a hamburger place and we were def not that stupid. In fact, that same situation happened to us a couple times. When the cash registers went out, we just got some paper and did it ourselves. Sure the customers would be in the drive-thru for a while, but at least they got food.
In chapter one, i can relate a lot to the traffic jam experience. When i moved to Tallahassee at 17, it was my first time living in a city with 3-lane roads. I thought Tennessee Street was real intimidating, but now i just laugh about it.
The Amish loopholes were pretty funny. They can't own cars, but they can lease them. They can't have phones in the house, but they can outside. This just goes to show that technology is slowly infiltrating into every culture on earth. Who knows, maybe in a few years some African tribe near the Nile River with have their own PDA's and cell phones.
It is pretty ironic how Eric met Mary. This book is probably going to get into all about how technology is bad and we should use it less....but this couple would have never met had it not been for technology.
The last main segment of Ch 1 is the couple preparing for the 18 month fieldwork. Right here and now, i think this book is going to be about a couple hippies that are clueless. They will probably go live without technology and then try to tell us (the reader) that we should do the same. The fact is, i do like technology and don't like hippies. So, I hope that i will be able to take something away from this book when i am finished.
In chapter one, i can relate a lot to the traffic jam experience. When i moved to Tallahassee at 17, it was my first time living in a city with 3-lane roads. I thought Tennessee Street was real intimidating, but now i just laugh about it.
The Amish loopholes were pretty funny. They can't own cars, but they can lease them. They can't have phones in the house, but they can outside. This just goes to show that technology is slowly infiltrating into every culture on earth. Who knows, maybe in a few years some African tribe near the Nile River with have their own PDA's and cell phones.
It is pretty ironic how Eric met Mary. This book is probably going to get into all about how technology is bad and we should use it less....but this couple would have never met had it not been for technology.
The last main segment of Ch 1 is the couple preparing for the 18 month fieldwork. Right here and now, i think this book is going to be about a couple hippies that are clueless. They will probably go live without technology and then try to tell us (the reader) that we should do the same. The fact is, i do like technology and don't like hippies. So, I hope that i will be able to take something away from this book when i am finished.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
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