Rocky Mountain High

Well, it is Monday and the normal routine returns. The Kansas City conference was great and I learned a lot and even managed to formulate a few ideas to follow-up on. My plane ride (Air Tran and US Airways) out there and back were uneventful not like the boon doggles the others had to tolerate. I even found the Cinnabun stand and had a whole roll. That was the first one I have had in probably a year. Can I go back and get another? Youth Bowling is going great. We have managed to hold onto 1st place that last two weeks. This was in spite of bowling against the two strongest teams on the league. Sunday Night, despite going 5-2, we slipped into 2nd place. While this is nice, I don't expect this to last too much longer. Not that we will collapse but the other teams start really rolling.

Wild Mom is getting excited about her Pigeon Forge trip. I think it is this weekend when they start. Lady will be packing and getting ready for the adventure. #1 and #2 are still waiting for a job to plop into their laps. Ok, who just said "Fat Chance" in the background? Peanut is still getting smarter as she continues to excel in school. We are very proud of her. Princess works and works and works. The kids were all active this weekend. Lew celebrated his 6th Birthday and managed to corral several webkins. Lil Princess talks more and more. This action must be in-bred into her, because all females do it or are capable of it. AJ is a dynamo of activity. If it is there ... he must pick it up.

Work is the same. That is one constant and pain in the butt thing about my life.

Well, except for the Redskins who always lose and blame everything else for the problem.

Who knew?

Did you know that drinking two glasses of Gatorade can relieve headache pain almost immediately-without the unpleasant side effects caused by traditional pain relievers?

Did you know that Colgate Toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns?

Before you head to the drugstore for a high-priced inhaler filled with mysterious chemicals, try chewing on a couple of curiously strong Altoids peppermints. They'll clear up your stuffed nose.

Achy muscles from a bout of the flu? Mix 1 tablespoon horseradish in 1 cup of olive oil. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then apply it as a massage oil for instant relief for aching muscles.

Sore throat? Just mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of honey and take 1 tablespoon six times a day. The vinegar kills the bacteria.

Cure urinary tract infections with Alka-Seltzer. Just dissolve two tablets in a glass of water and drink it at the onset of the symptoms. Alka-Seltzer begins eliminating urinary tract infections almost instantly-even though the product was never advertised for this use.

Honey remedy for skin blemishes ... cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a Band-Aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds healing. Works overnight.

Listerine therapy for toenail fungus: Get rid of unsightly toenail fungus by soaking your toes in Listerine Mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

Easy eyeglass protection ... to prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of Maybelline Crystal Clear Nail Polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them.

Cleaning liquid that doubles as bug killer... if menacing bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets get in your home and you can't find the insecticide, try a spray of Formula 409. Insects drop to the ground instantly.

Smart splinter remover: Just pour a drop of Elmer's Glue-All over the splinter, let dry, and peel the dried glue off the skin. The splinter sticks to the dried glue.

Hunt's Tomato Paste boil cure ... cover the boil with Hunt's Tomato Paste as a compress. The acids from the tomatoes soothe the pain and bring the boil to a head.

Balm for broken blisters ... to disinfect a broken blister, dab on a few drops of Listerine, a powerful antiseptic.

Vinegar to heal bruises ... soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and apply it to the bruise for 1 hour. The vinegar reduces the blueness and speeds up the healing process.

Quaker Oats for fast pain relief ... it's not for breakfast any more! Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and warm in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain.

Another Fall Month

Well, I am still here though I haven't been as faithful to posting like I should be. Our weekend in Virginia Beach was great and we had a lot of fun on the boardwalk. The Neptune festival was going on and the crowds were large. But we managed to walk almost 2 laps of the Boardwalk. Dinner was at Ruddees and it was all it was said to be. This Wednesday, I head to Kansas City for a leadership Institute with several other members from our church. I am actually looking forward to this event. Maybe they will get through this thick skull of mind and teach me something. Think so? Not! Bowling is in full swing and so far we have been successful this season. Both teams are in first place. How, I am not sure but we are doing it so far.

Wild Mom is doing fine and settling in for the winter. However, she is looking forward to her's and Lady's weekend in Pigeon Forge later this month. Lady is busy sewing Brian's blanket and doing her usual stuff she does. She keeps busy that is for sure. #1 and #2 are now in between jobs. The contract expired and there was no renewal. So we are back into the searching mode ... and that sucks. Peanut is doing great in school and starting to plan post graduate things. The three little ones are growing like weeds. Lew will be 6 this week. What happened to that little boy? Lil Princess is growing too but she is so dainty and sweet I wonder how many hearts she will break before all is said and done. She sat there Saturday night asking me to brush her hair. It is so fine care must be taken not to break or pull it out. AJ is starting to put words together and make us laugh. He is very active and loves to climb. When all three are there my head moves like it is on a swivel. Princess works and works and works .... all work and no play means she will be all dull before long. I couldn't even get her to go to ChincoTeague or Williamsburg for the weekend. Oh well, Cats in the Cradle.

Do You Understand?

IF YOU CROSS THE NORTH KOREAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET 12 YEARS HARD LABOR ...

IF YOU CROSS THE IRANIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU ARE DETAINED INDEFINITELY ...

BUT, IF YOU CROSS THE U.S. BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET A DRIVERS LICENSE, SOCIAL SECURITY CARD, WELFARE, FOOD STAMPS, AND FREE HEALTH CARE?

I guess I still don't understand... 

Mens Rules

Men's Rules - AUTHOR UNKNOWN:

We always hear "the rules " From the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our rules! Please note.. these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!

1. Men ARE not mind readers.
1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.
1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.
1. Crying is blackmail.
1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!
1. Yes and No are perfectly Acceptable answers to almost every question.
1. Come to us with a problem only If you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.
1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem . See a doctor.
1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.
1. If you won't dress like the Victoria 's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.
1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.
1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.
1. You can either ask us to do something Or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.
1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.
1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.
1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not! A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.
1. If it itches, it will Be scratched. We do that.
1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing is wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.
1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.
1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.
1. You have enough clothes.
1. You have too many shoes.
1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!
1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight; But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping..

Have A great Day

*
God **Saw you **hungry** & created McDonald's, Wendy's, and Dairy Queen.** *
*
He saw you **thirsty** & created Coke, ** Juice, Coffee and Water. *
*
GOD saw you **in the dark** & created Light. **
*
GOD saw you without a ** Good looking **, ** adorable** **, ** FRIEND........* *
*
*
*
so He created** M** **E **

Whizzing by

Well, another week has gone by and I am still behind on my postings. Where does the time go? This use to all fit into my day. This weekend we are going to Crownsville MD for the Renaissance Faire. That is always a great time and goes by way too quickly. The Fall/Winter Bowling leagues have started. I am doing better than the last several years (185 and 189 averages). I won't say much about the others scores lest I embarrass them.

Labor Day weekend was spent taking Wild Mom to the Family reunion in Illinois and then to Florida. She was up here in Virginia nearly a month and we enjoyed the whole time. She really liked our Bible Study group and all the activity around the house. It is never quiet. Lady is doing well but it is a struggle to keep up with things at times. She put quite a bit of time into a remembrance activity for a close friend who died less than 2 months ago. #1 and #2 are still working but the contract is drawing to a close. Hopefully something will get worked out and they can continue on. Peanut is doing great in school though she is under the weather today ... sinuses. I am still waiting for that first massage, sure would be nice after a day at the bowling alley. Oh well. We are proud of her as she fight hard to make this all work out. Princess has finished her move to the new house and we get to see her occasionally. She seems to work all the time. AJ, Lil Princess and Lou are growing like weeds. The two little ones are starting to say (err repeat what they hear). So we must guard what we say. Lou is starting school and likes it so far ... only 12 more years. Star is still in Georgia and making a living. She really enjoys the film shoots ... who knows when she will be on a billboard. We miss her.

Another football season has started and the headlines remain the same ... Redskins Lose. Somethings never change.

Subject: For dog lovers ... and patriot

A touching story about an adopted Black Lab. A bit long.. but worth it in the end - a guaranteed tear-jerker. What a story ...

They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie as I looked at him lying in his pen. the shelter was clean, no-kill, and the people really friendly. I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and open Everyone waves when you pass them on the street.

But something was still missing as I attempted to settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog couldn't hurt. Give me someone to talk to. And I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local news. The shelter said they had received numerous calls right after, but they said the people who had come down to see him just didn't look like "Lab people," whatever that meant. They must have thought I did.

But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog pad, bag of toys almost all of which were brand new tennis balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous owner. See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off when we got home. We struggled for two weeks (which is how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his new home). Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to adjust, too. Maybe we were too much alike.

For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis balls - he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked boxes. I guess I didn't really think he'd need all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he settled in. but it became pretty clear pretty soon that he wasn't going to.

I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and "come" and "heel," and he'd follow them - when he felt like it. He never really seemed to listen when I called his name - sure, he'd look in my direction after the fourth of fifth time I said it, but then he'd just go back to doing whatever. When I'd ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly obey.

This just wasn't going to work. He chewed a couple shoes and some unpacked boxes I was a little too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell. The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full-on search mode for my cellphone amid all of my unpacked stuff. I remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guest room, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the "damn dog probably hid it on me."

Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys from the shelter ... I tossed the pad in Reggie's direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. But then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come here and I'll give you a treat." Instead, he sort of glanced in my direction - maybe "glared" is more accurate - and then gave a discontented sigh and flopped down. With his back to me.

Well, that's not going to do it either, I thought. And I punched the shelter phone number.

But I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope. I had completely forgotten about that, too. "Okay, Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if your previous owner has any advice." ...

########## ######### ##########

To Whoever Gets My Dog:

Well, I can't say that I'm happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter could only be opened by Reggie's new owner ... I'm not even happy writing it. If you're reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter. He knew something was different. I have packed up his pad and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip, but this time ... it's like he knew something was wrong. And something is wrong ... which is why I have to go to try to make it right.

So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes that it will help you bond with him and he with you.

First, he loves tennis balls. the more the merrier. Sometimes I think he's part squirrel, the way he hordes them. He usually always has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be careful - really don't do it by any roads. I made that mistake once, and it almost cost him dearly.

Next, commands. Maybe the shelter staff already told you, but I'll go over them again: Reggie knows the obvious ones - "sit," "stay," "come," "heel." He knows hand signals: "back" to turn around and go back when you put your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your hand out right or left. "Shake" for shaking water off, and "paw" for a high-five. He does "down" when he feels like lying down - I bet you could work on that with him some more. He knows "ball" and "food" and "bone" and "treat" like nobody's business.

I trained Reggie with small food treats. Nothing opens his ears like little pieces of hot dog.

Feeding schedule: twice a day, once about seven in the morning, and again at six in the evening. Regular store-bought stuff; the shelter has the brand.

He's up on his shots. Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when he's due. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the vet Good luck getting him in the car - I don't know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but he knows.

Finally, give him some time. I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie and me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if you can. He sits well in the backseat, and he doesn't bark or complain. He just loves to be around people, and me most especially.

Which means that this transition is going to be hard, with him going to live with someone new.

And that's why I need to share one more bit of info with you ... His name's not Reggie

I don't know what made me do it, but when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them his name was Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it and will respond to it, of that I have no doubt. but I just couldn't bear to give them his real name. For me to do that, it seemed so final, that handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting that I'd never see him again. And if I end up coming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it means everything is fine. But if someone else is reading it, well ... well it means that his new owner should know his real name. It'll help you bond with him. Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change in his demeanor if he's been giving you problems.

His real name is Tank. Because that is what I drive.

Again, if you're reading this and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the news. I told the shelter that they couldn't make "Reggie" available for adoption until they received word from my company commander. See, my parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could have left Tank with ... and it was my only real request of the Army upon my deployment to Iraq, that they make one phone call the the shelter ... in the "event" ... to tell them that Tank could be put up for adoption. Luckily, my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon was headed. He said he'd do it personally. And if you're reading this, then he made good on his word.

Well, this letter is getting to downright depressing, even though, frankly, I'm just writing it for my dog. I couldn't imagine if I was writing it for a wife and kids and family. but still, Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as long as the Army has been my family.

And now I hope and pray that you make him part of your family and that he will adjust and come to love you the same way he loved me.

That unconditional love from a dog is what I took with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do something selfless, to protect innocent people from those who would do terrible things ... and to keep those terrible people from coming over here. If I had to give up Tank in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. He was my example of service and of love. I hope I honored him by my service to my country and comrades.

All right, that's enough. I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at the shelter. I don't think I'll say another good-bye to Tank, though. I cried too much the first time. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he finally got that third tennis ball in his mouth.

Good luck with Tank. Give him a good home, and give him an extra kiss goodnight - every night - from me.

Thank you, Paul Mallory

########## ######### ##########

I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at half-mast all summer.

I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on my knees, staring at the dog.

"Hey, Tank," I said quietly.

The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his eyes bright.

"C'mere boy."

He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on the hardwood floor. He sat in front of me, his head tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in months.

"Tank," I whispered.

His tail swished.

I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood him. I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried my face into his scruff and hugged him.

"It's me now, Tank, just you and me. Your old pal gave you to me." Tank reached up and licked my cheek. "So whatdaya say we play some ball? His ears perked again. "Yeah? Ball? You like that? Ball?" Tank tore from my hands and disappeared in the next room.

And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in his mouth.

I dare you to watch this and tell me it is worth it

Texting While Driving

I love everyone of my kids and pray they don't fall into this trap!

The Insurance Companies now tell us this is a big problem and the biggest cause of accidents. I believe Operating a Motor Vehicle while using the handheld Cell Phone should be outlawed with severe penalties ... to die because someone just couldn't concentrate on driving for a few minutes. Is it worth it????

Way Too Long

Looking at the Blog site I realized I haven't been that faithful in keeping it current. A lot has happened, so maybe I can blame it on that. September holds for us a weekend in Virginia Beach and the Maryland Renaissance Faire. We are looking forward to going for our fifth year. O'Danny Girls, here we come! The Youth League finished with us in the middle of the field. The team never really jelled and we lost too many close ones that we should have won. I will have to look hard at the team composition and make some needed changes so we can be competitive. I did manage to finish with a 194 average and hold the third high average. The winter Adult League starts next Sunday ... the start of 30+ weeks of bowling. For me ... it is the chance for a lot of dates with my sweety.

Wild Mom is here with us for a summer vacation. We will take her home on Labor Day Weekend. It has been fun for us but she has managed to stay sick most of the time with sinus and numbness in her arm. Maybe she brought that from my sister's house. The dog has enjoyed the company and the little kids that drop food all the time. Lady has been busy, her boss went to Greece leaving her in charge, but managed to get the time off for our weekend in Williamsburg Va. She is really looking forward to the third weekend in September when we go to Virginia Beach for the weekend. Right in the middle of this time, we lost a really good friend. Brian Powell left us on his Birthday. We will miss him a lot.

Star was here for a week for the funeral. That was fun for us but I know she was ready to head back for Georgia and get back to life. living out of suitcases for a long time gets hard. It was so hard, she even managed to leave her keys and cigarette case. #1 and #2 both work now. Can you believe that? We are now hoping the contract with Verizon is renewed and they continue on for a lot longer. #1 has even managed to get promoted in all this. #2 is enjoying the sensation of having money in his wallet. Hopefully he will grow accustom to that and not let the cobwebs form there again. Princess has moved to a bigger place ... a single family house only a few blocks away from us. She continues to fill every second of her day with work. For me, keep every minute for myself and having fun. Lew, Lil Princess, and AJ continue to grow and keep us laughing. The two little ones amaze us with their new vocabulary and the ways they use the words. AJ still hasn't quite figured out that the pool is not the bathroom. Peanut is now a school girl once again. She has started to take classes at Everest College in order to become a Massage Therapist. We all are excited for her ... none more so than her. Now let me see ... peanut butter massage ... hmmmm!

Getting ready for the Dog Days

We are safely back from Indiana. The drive was uneventful but long (10+ hours). It was a great time and in many ways I wished it would never end. Lady's surprise of her brother on his birthday was complete. He was speechless as was her sister who walked by Lady before realizing who it was. Lew loved the pool and AJ even managed to splash his feet in the pool too. My neice, the fish, showed me all her swimming skills and filled my ears with tales of her swim meets. I really did enjoy that time and even the wrestling matches with her next day. Lady's parent's house and property are somewhere I could retire and really enjoy life. The town is so laid back and quiet. Life is so fast there ... they drive golf carts around town and there isn't a golf course in miles. #1 and peanut are still working. Though Peanut really missed AJ. It is amazing how those lil beggars get too you. AJ learned one new word very well and used it every possible second that he could speak. He wore out the word "Bye." #2 is still suffering from noworkitis. I believe the disease isn't fatal but it sure saps your energy away. Star celebrated her birthday (?? years) in Hilton Head and Monday finally returned to reality in Georgia. Princess is still working like a mule and occasionally stops to say hi or is it "hee haw?" Now we can start looking forward to the next weekend adventure in August ... Williamsburg Va. Work is the same. I am very happy that it is the one constant pain in my life. That helps me maintain a foot in reality. More to come later!!!

A Fathers Love Letter

I saw this and felt it should be shared ...

Summer Heat - I

Well, I guess I had better get this updated ... I have been asleep at the wheel. This weekend we head to Indiana so see Lady's Mother and attend a suprise party. That should prove to be interesting. Wild Mom is doing fine but cabin fever is rampant. Hopefully, I will be able to rescue her for a few weeks and then visit the Heisner Reunion on the way home. Star gets older today! Though she did go to Hilton Head SC without me. Sniff! Believe it or not .... #1 got a job as Inventory Specialist with Verizon. Miracles do happen. Now, what will it take for #2 to get one ... an act of God? Lew, Lil Princess and AJ are growing like weeds and getting good use out of the pool. I swear sometimes they are more fish than Human. We had a nice evening with Princess and I even managed to spend less than $50 during the short shopping trip we made. I wouldn't even try that with Lady or Wild Mom.

Future Plans:
Indiana
Williamsburg (Aug)
Virginia Beach (Sept)
Pigeon Forge TN (Oct)
Caribbean (Jan)

Work is the same ... just a little slow as we tend to fix things once and for all. Maybe "Fixing Stupid" is on summer vacation.

Cool Summer

Another week starts. The best part is Cheng is back. Not that the work is that hard ... but we get to share the idiocy that permeates this place. The weekend was quiet and slow. The highlights included Rita's Ice from Potomac Mills. Saturday's El Agave trip was nice and the food was all we expected. Of course AJ, Lew, and Lil Princess devoured the guacamole (2 bowls worth). Wild Mom is doing fine (healing) but cabin fever is in full force as she still hasn't been cleared to drive. Any one can feel free to call her and chat a bit, I know she will enjoy that a lot. Also there is a discussion started about bringing her up here for a few weeks. But nothing final was decided. Lady is doing well and for the most part this weekend rested, if that is possible with three kids hanging around. The three kids (AJ, Lew and Lil Princess) spent the weekend eating Popsicles, hot dogs and swimming in their new pool. They had a blast and now our summer routine consists of just that. #1 and #2 still can't wrestle down those elusive jobs. It is all in the approach. Don't focus on that 9% don't have a job but realize that 91% do have jobs. Peanut is fine and working away at her job. She and AJ did manage to go to the National Zoo and have a great time. Princess has been spending some time with us this weekend and that really made this weekend special. We hope this is the start of something fantastic. We capped our weekend off with Klines Ice Cream after youth bowling. The Bowling is doing fine. I even managed to get hooked up last night and roll a 184-202-275=661. That should bounce my average a bit.

**********

I love it when Derrick Mason wants us to not judge McNair and forget his cheating. What you do on the football field doesn't dismiss or cancel what you do off the field. You are a member of society first and a little bit of honesty and integrity, not to mention fidelity and honesty comes first.

Lance continues to stay close ... feels like the viper is about to strike.

The Nationals Coach got the hook last night. I love it when the players play like junior college players and the Coach gets the axe. He didn't drop the fly ball. I don't have much respect for the players who don't play up to their level or even play to the level of their compensation. I would rather see the Potomac Nationals (Carolina League) play for they are trying to the BEST of their ability to try and make this sorry national League team. What irony ... trying hard to make a losing team.

I Love You

Someone who loves me a lot sent this ... and I now sent it to you

One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, old morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't "anymore." No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute."

Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I love you."

So while we have it, it's best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick. This is true for marriage ... and old cars, and children with bad report cards,
and dogs with bad hips, family and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it ... because we are worth it.

Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a sister-in-law after divorce ... There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.

Life is important. We only have one. We only have one mom, one dad, one unique brother or sister or friend.

Suppose one morning you never wake up. Do all your friends know you love them?

I was thinking .. I could die today, tomorrow or next week, and I wondered if I had any wounds needing to be healed, friendships that needed rekindling or three words needing to be said.

Let every one of your friends and family know you love them. Even if you think they don't love you back, you would be amazed at what those three little words and a smile can do.

And just in case GOD calls me home ... I LOVE You ! :-)

Live today to the fullest because tomorrow is not promised!

More Fun in the Sun

I hope everyone had a safe and happy July 4th. We did. Lots of grilling outside and the cranking up of homemade Ice Cream were the tops. Friday included a Potomac Nationals Baseball game with fireworks at the end. Yes, they won 6-5 more than could be said about the Nationals. We skipped the large crowds Saturday by staying home and relaxing with a bowl of Ice Cream. Thursday started my long weekend with one of my teeth being pulled out. I was only in the chair over 2 1/2 hours. It was not fun but I have managed to dodge all the pain and problems following the surgery. Lew and Lil Princess spent the holidays with their parents. Peanut, #1 and #2 were their normal selves. Star is in Pennsylvania visiting. Sunday Bowling was ok as we managed to win (7-0) and move up from our middle of the pack position. Lady is now on Facebook, that took a bunch of talking. Wild Mom is doing well and having a blast while she waits for the next trip.

Looks like a July trip to Indiana is in the works. More to come.
Reservations are confirmed for September in Virginia Beach.

**********

Tour De France is almost here.

"Dating Relationship" is what they call it between McNair and some 20 year old. He is married with kids and I call it ... Adultry, Affair, and wrong.

I lucked out and didn't get a ticket to see them plant Wacko Jacko. The Doctors had a real quandry with what to do with his body at the Morgue on Tuesday. You see, recycle pickup wasn't until Friday.

Splashing Fun

Another weekend has come and gone. Bible School is over and a complete success. Some kids asked if we could do it next week ... they were having a blast. Wild Mom continues to heal and get stronger. Before long she will be back to full strength and on the road again. lady is happy VBS is over so she can rest and shake the last effects of her cold off. I managed to clear cut one half of the back yard jungle. A couple of times I had to follow the bright yellow electric cord back to the house. I will try and finish up the yard today provided the rain holds up. #1 is on a roll, 2 phone interviews in 7 months. I think half of Manassas will faint if he gets a job. #2 is sneaking around trying to find out #1's secret of landing them interviews since #2 is O-fer during the same time frame. Star is fine and the day of her calendar debut is drawing closer. She will be visiting Pennsylvania for a few days. We got a kiddie pool and Lil Princess, Lew and AJ made the most of it. AJ was blue and shivering like a leaf in a hurricane ... but he pitched a fit when we dried him off and took him inside. We had a blast watching them and Lady managed to get a few pictures of them in action. Peanut is doing fine though her are work hours are drawing down ... we knew this would happen from the start but the chance was taken. Saturday, Peanut and I went to see the Star Trek movie. It was ok, but the original series is still the best. Youth bowling is approaching mid-season. I averaged 201 but it takes more than one person to win. It looks like Indiana will be our next trip.

I am tired of Whacko Jacko memorials. Funny how in life they were avoiding or not supporting him (sales were at the bottom) but now are going stupid over him once again. They forget what kind of person he was and pump him up as the Greatest Ever. Funny how we change when we try and exploit him by collecting his stuff.

No need to say anything about the Nationals ... they lived up to their potential.

Summer Reflections

Hot times in Virginia. Today is 90+ and humid. Wild Mom is doing well. Her stamina isn't where she would like it but as long as she goes slow she is fine. It looks like she will be able to attend the Reunion in Lynn Haven Florida next weekend. It has been a long time since my last one ... well, maybe one day I will make it. Lady is really enjoying Vacation Bible School as she has the pleasure of corralling 8 kids under two years of age. Somehow I think she will be ready for another weekend vacation just to recuperate. #1 managed to scrape up an interview and at the same time run the Caddy out of gas. All the while the jungle grows ... even the wild strawberries are having to fight for their sunlight. #2 continues to be a room lizard and dodge any interviews. Star is doing fine. She continues to push to get her life organized. Who thought she would be a famous model ... featured in a calendar. It kind of made me think of a reality show where the young lady informed her parents that she was a centerfold in Playboy magazine. Hmmmm! Rub that thought from my mind! We will get to see Lew and Lil Princess this weekend after missing the last two. How much have they grown? More than the weeds in the yard? Work is the same ... frustrating ... plus Cheng is going on vacation next week but he deserves it for all the crap he deals with.

For those who are concerned ... I am fine. Just a bit disappointed as another piece of my dream dies. I wonder if it is possible to set them too high so that you can never have any real expectation of them ever succeeding? Sure seems like it.

9 Days till the Race ... Tour De France

The cruise is getting closer as the other night we actually started dreaming and scheming of what will transpire on the cruise in January. We have only 6 months till then ... I can feel the breeze on my face as we race downhill to the sailing date. Not to mention ... Lady in a bikini.

Back to Reality

We have landed safely back at home. After the AC was fixed about Monday noon, we headed for lunch and the road. The drive was long and uneventful as usual but we made it. Wild Mom is fine and healing slowly. Today, she had a small issue with some fever but after clearing the drain tube, everything seems to be back to normal. The yard looks like a scene out of the Jungle. It will be quite a job to cut. Maybe I might need a shotgun to take care of the critters that are hiding in the grass. I am amazed how quickly it grows ... when I first started it never seemed to grow but now when I wish it would slow down ... no way. Vacation Bible School is well underway and I am hoping to get there but there are a few issues at work that I am working on. Work is the same with no hope of changing anytime soon.

At least the nationals haven't changed ... thank God for something consistent. I am looking forward to the Tour De France starting soon.

She is on the Loose

Well, we arrived in Florida fine ... just tired from driving all night. Wild Mom's surgery went fine. She went in about 11:30 and they were done about 3:30. She spent the night and was discharged this morning about 9:00. Of course that happened just as I sat down to breakfast ... needless to say ... I finished it an hour later and 30 seconds for the microwave. Also the air conditioner decided to mess up today. The fan motor burned up on a day when the heat index was 103+. The old fan blades were so rusted that it will be Monday before they finish the job. It is running now and the inside temp is 85 and dropping. Lady fixed potato soup and it was good as usual ... and "no" there wasn't any left to bring home. At one point today all five of us were sitting around sleeping. It was funny. As you get older those "power naps" work wonders. The usual computer work gets done as it is amazing how much can get messed up between visits. last night we had to buy more dog food and when we got home ... it was full of bugs. Gee, great price and extra bonus protein. We took the bag back and lo and behold ... every bag on the shelf contained bugs. The Store Manager wasn't happy. It looks like the dealer sold him bad food. The Church down here is having a breakfast for Father's Day, so perhaps I will stuff myself before Sunday School. Lady bought some great looking tomatoes for making tomato sandwiches ... but alas ... we will have to wait till tomorrow to taste test them.

Way Down South

The drive to Florida as uneventful and long. Both of us are really looking forward to a complete nights sleep. We left about 2:30 pm and arrived in Florida at 7:00 am. We did manage to attend the "Over 50" Luncheon at the Cracker Barrel. Even though I wasn't qualified ... they didn't check ID's and we got it. The food was great and the company even better. That drive gets longer each time we make it. I think the days of driving straight through are fast coming to an end. We drove the truck and it ran well. The lowest gas we found $2.39 in South Carolina. Wild Mom is doing well and right now we are sitting here waiting for the surgery to end. They say it will last about 1 hour. With the prep work and stuff, I figure she will be done about 4:00 pm. We got here about 8:30 just to hurry up and wait. Lady is doing fine. Her cold is still hanging on. Good thing about all this waiting is she can catch up on her reading of the book. No change with #1 and #2. Though #1 had a bit of trouble with his teeth. After removing three he does feel better for the time being. Peanut continues to work and find out just how far a paycheck does not stretch. AJ continues to grow stronger and doing what one-year olds do ... get into trouble. Starr is doing well and working at Pizza Hut. She is getting excited as the day of receiving her tax refund gets closer and then she can get her own place. There is no change on the work scene and I have even managed to get caught up some ... but alas ... more projects. Both Bible Studies are doing very good. Every one wants to participate and talk ... thus that makes it easier for me. The Youth bowling is about a third of the way completed. While we both have higher averages than last year we are almost in last place. We are getting killed by the handicap difference. It doesn't take much for a 70 average bowler to bowl over their average.

Florida ... Here we come

June is well underway and lots of things are happening. Watching the D-Day specials just remind me how great those men and women were. They truly are the Greatest Generation. I salute you all.

The Youth bowling is rolling along. Personally, I am doing great (196 with 3 of the 4 series over 200) but the team isn't. Two of our partners haven't showed up and bowling two blind scores just about guarantees you a loss. We try but keep coming up short. It would be nice to find two kids who want to have fun and learn a little about bowling. I have an idea on one but they don't have time. It is a pisser when they grow up or at least think they have. This week I have two Bible Studies starting up and that excites me. The book (The Shack) is great and there is a great potential for a lot of discussion. Everyone that has been reading it so far really likes it. The excitement level for everyone is high. Work is so-so and if given the chance I could think of dozen of things to do in its place. Most people are gone or busy doing whatever they do when they aren't in the office getting face time or creating work for the engineers. The equipment is running fine ... just like we arranged. Fix it right and it runs fine for a long time. Keep the Operator fingers out of it and it runs flawlessly.

We will be heading for Florida on the afternoon of the 18th and returning on probably the 22nd of June. Wild Mom is have some surgery and we are going down to be with her, if nothing more than giggle at her discomfort. Probably even eat a great tasting What-a-burger while she eats that bland and tasteless hospital food. Your prayers would be appreciated for her. Peanut is working and having a great time. #1 and #2 still manage to dodge the work bullet and lay around the house. Though #1 does it with some pain ... his teeth are bothering him. Did AJ punch him in the chops like Lil Princess gave Lew a good shiner? The kids are great and growing like weeds. Lil Princess and AJ are learning to talk and that provides a lot of laughs. Lew is becoming a computer games geek ... hmmm ... just like #2? Vacation Bible school starts on the 22nd and the kids are looking forward to it. They sure get in the way while Lady and I do our planning and getting things ready. Starr is tossing the pies at Pizza Hut. Can you imagine her with flour all over her face and pepperonis in her hair? She and Dave are doing fine and learning that building a home takes some work and I think they will be up here in August. Batten down the hatches ... the storm is coming ashore. We love her and can't wait to see her again. Lady is a little under the weather and trying to rest a lot right now as she apparently tries to shrug off a summer cold. I am about finished with my sinus issues and all the coughing fits it started.

Things we still need to plan is an Indiana weekend (AUG) trip, Virginia Beach weekend (SEPT), Chincoteague weekend (Jul), Maryland Renn-Faire weekend (Sept), and the Training Course in Kansas City Mo (OCT). Of course, already planned is the Western Caribbean cruise in January.

##########

It is a rare day when the Nationals win ... and to add insult to it ... their fireworks display when they do win has been banned by the Fire Marshall. Talk about losers!

Too bad the stimulus money hasn't been used to stimulate the Alternative Fuels industry ... especially since the Oil Companies are jacking the prices up to bring their profit margins up. No reason for it to jumping like this except greed. Just like Bush, Obama won't do anything to help ... so are they any different? They are both Politicians ... and thus crooked as the rest.

Way to go ... Grasshopper!

Would You Ever Believe III ...

West Virginia Trophy Squirrel

Would You Ever Believe II ...

The rarely photographed South Florida Squirrel

Tick ... Tick

What a life. Today work was one of those days I about tossed the old #1 finger and left. Five people were so important their computer had to be the priority. One of them just needed to wake up and reboot. The other screwed his computer up with 3 viruses and several tracking cookies. They continually say "I don't know where they come from." Knock ... Knock ... Another just wanted to belly ache because they were tired of a pop-up. When you have 30 computers to update ... someone has to be second. The I was in the middle of setting 1 up and later come to find out, the person had logged in somewhere else and was screwing me up. I would log off (windows favorite response to anything) to do the update and then get locked out because of their work. I will fix that tomorrow ... it is called changing the password until I am frickin ready for them to play around. I did get some good done on other computer systems but these nuisances ruin the whole day. Oh I love those emails at 4:00 pm on Friday telling me they need to computers on Monday morning. Duh, don't we plan around here and have some lead time? Oh, that is right ... not in Salem. I also love those listeners that just wait to tell us "what is wrong." If you can't operate your computer then get a pencil and pad of paper. If you have a job where you are supposed to have some computer skills ... then learn the basics other than pushing the power button. Believe me ... I know one person that can't even figure that out. Then there is the question, "Will this automatic function run by itself or should I stay there and run it?" Since that function will cost you your job if it is botched ... be there and be ready for anything. Oh well, enough soap box.

80 and Climbing

Can you believe it is June. If I was a kid ... Summer vacation would be here! Not much has gone on except work and Church. I am starting a new Bible Study up on Wednesday Nights. We will read and study the book "The Shack" by William P. Young. The reaction to this book is unbelievable. I recommend reading it. Wild Mom survived the Wedding reception but now her house is empty. There was a really good turnout though they did not manage to eat all the food. But like all good "Davis's", they put a pretty good dent into it. We will heading down to Wild Mom's for a few days. The actual dates are still up in the air. Lady is doing well but she is very busy. Vacation Bible School starts very soon and that usually wears her out. No change in #1 and #2 other than the storm clouds are gathering and shortly the storm will be upon them. Peanut started her new job on Saturday. It is an office job so that makes it a lot nicer than working for a rental company. AJ is growing like a weed. He is very active and constantly makes us laugh as he does little things. Right now he is battling some congestion. I guess even kids suffer from allergies. Lew and Lil Princess are doing great. Lew is becoming quite the computer gamer. Lil Princess is really expanding her vocabulary now and that leads to some very funny moments. Starr has a new job and soon with some luck a new apartment with no extra roommates. Hmmm, a quiet house is a luxury for only a few. Youth bowling continues and this league has 14 teams. That makes it really nice and it is very competitive as there are some good teams with very good bowlers. We now have FIOS for the TV, Phone and Internet. It has been good so far. I don't do much downloads anymore so I haven't really tested the Internet side. TV is ok especially if you like 9 HBO channels.

Nationals: You can take the players out of Montreal but you can't take Montreal out of the players. 13-36 ... pretty pathetic.

Food For Thought

Subject: DEPT. OF ENERGY

Does anybody out there have any memory of the reason given for the establishment of the DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ... during the Carter Administration?

• Anybody?
• Anything?
• No?
• Didn't think so !
  

Bottom line ... we've spent several hundred billion dollars in support of an agency ... the reason for which not one person who reads this can remember.

Ready??????? It was very simple ... and at the time everybody thought it very appropriate...

The 'Department of Energy' was instituted on 08-04-1977 ... TO LESSEN OUR DEPENDENCE ON FOREIGN OIL.

Hey, pretty efficient, huh?????

And now 32 years later ... the Budget for this "Necessary" Department is at 24.2 Billion dollars a year.

For that amount we get:

• 16,000 Federal Employees
• and approximately 100,000 Contract Employees

AND LOOK AT THE JOB IT HAS DONE!

• Gas Companies making Billion dollar Quarterly Profits.
• Gas Prices averaging $2.60 per gallon for Regular Unleaded.
• Automobiles and Trucks that suck the gas up with amazing fuel efficiency of 15 mile per gallon.
• Plans for High Effiency Nuclear Power Plants that still sit on the drawing table.
• Millions of gallons of unrefined oil waiting to be drilled for in the Continetal US.
  

>>> THIS IS WHERE YOU SLAP YOUR FOREHEAD
AND SAY "WHAT WAS I THINKING?" <<<

Ah, yes, good ole bureaucracy ... And NOW we are going to turn the Banking System, Health Care & the Auto Industry over to them?

A Child's Prayer

Dear God,

Please send clothes for all those poor ladies in Daddy's computer.

Amen.

A Friend Returns Home

Sorry for the long time between posts ... Verizon managed to cut my cable for the Internet and it took COMCAST 5 days to repair it. The more I deal with any large corporation the more messed up they seem to be. All is well around the homestead except for it being so cool. We had frost last night (May right?) It has been fun the last few days not having cable or Internet, reminds me of the 60's though the kids didn't like it. I did manage to read a book, "The Shack" by William P. Young. It is well worth reading in my humble opinion. I am still puzzling over some of the things that were said, even after finishing it. Perhaps shortly I will blog about it some. A friend wants to sit down and discuss it, so that should prove most interesting. Last week, I learned a friend died on May 10th. He and I had bowled together for some 22+ years. I met him every year at the National Tournament. I will miss him and the times we shared letting the bowling lanes beat us up. The funny thing is we have now lost a bowling team member every year for the last three years. Is God telling me something?

Vincent Russell
September 01, 1932 - May 10, 2009

Wild Mom is getting nearer her deadline as the weekend grows closer. Now we just have to get her to slow down and just let things happen. Lady is getting ready for her birthday weekend coming up. I am still not sure what we will be doing but we will do something. No change in the job status for #1, #2, or Peanut. Good thing the unemployment is only 4% here ... if it was higher like most other places there would be a chance they would become permanent (for life) guests. The grandkids are a source of many laughs and chuckles. They each try an out do each other. AJ will stand in front of the TV and dance. Nothing is too sacred to not climb on. Lil Princess remains the center of attention and demands such. Lew is independent and acts like it. The similarities between him and #1 are uncanny and too numerous to count. Starr is still modeling and enjoying it. I think the telemarketing shine has worn off and it has revealed it self as the pain it really is. Peanut is consumed with "mommy duties", though she has managed to do some cooking. Believe it or not, but she is good. --- DISCLAIMER for my safety ... Lady is still my favorite cook. ---

Youth bowling has started and will run for 14 weeks. The season looks bright and full of optimism and hopefully one that is successful. The adult league will start the last weekend in August.

Work is the same and no one changes. We do manage to escape to WAMD to work. That gives us a 4+ hour window to recover and experience the real world. Don't they teach you virus scans and hard drive scans take time? Noting is instantaneous, well, except for their questions on why "MY System is broke."

What is it about Washington Sports ... the teams always seem to lose in the most ugly manner? Their skill level makes you wonder if they ever finished Junior Varsity sports.

Mothers Day 09

It was a great day. Lady had all three grand kids (Lew, Lil Princess, and AJ) go to Church with her. That was an adventure in itself. Lew managed to get a good shiner when Lil Princess hit him with her head. All three of them got some good time swinging on the swing set while Lady counted the morning offering. Then #1, Peanut, and #2 prepared dinner for her. It turned out very good though #1 kept worrying about it. Lady was very happy at the whole day. Even Starr was able to get through on the phone and talk with her. I had a great day because Lady was happy. Plus #1 managed to get the whole yard cut so the weeds aren't higher than the basement windows.

Wild Mom had a good day that included going out to eat. I sure missed having her around but I know she enjoyed being with her friends after her long vacation.

Thanks for the Great Memories

The weekend finally arrived. Our Bible Study group started a new course of study just doing Bible questions. The kicker is that we just can't give the answer ... we have to give the verse to support your answer. That makes it a little tougher. Of course you have a week to do 20 questions and you can use any resource you like. Friday Night was Chili Dogs and Brats at our friends house. Instead of dropping $125 eating out we made sandwich's and watched a movie, "License to Wed", all for less than $20 bucks. Eating out is nice but we would rather save the movie for the cruise which is 7 months away.

To Wild Mom, Lady, and Peanut ... I hope your Mother's Day is the best. I love you all and wish I could do more for you. Maybe one day I will be able to give you everything you want, until then I give you my heart and love.

Wild Mom is doing well and getting things done for the Reception. That is scheduled for the weekend of the 23-24 May. We haven't decided about going yet especially since it is Lady's birthday. Lady is fine and losing weight. Her and Peanut are losing weight using different programs but talk about it a lot. I just hope they both don't put a bikini on and ask me who is doing better. That would be a kiss of death for me. Peanut is fine and relieved that AJ is doing so well. The Cardiologist says every thing is good and he will not have too go back in. AJ is really active now and very opinionated. Chairs are not for sitting but standing up in, especially rocking chairs like the one he got for his 1st birthday.

#1 and #2 are pretty much the same ... still unemployed. #1 did do the yard work this weekend and I am very happy about that. Lil Princess and Lew aren't here yet since Lady and Peanut went to the Sister's In Christ banquet together. Too bad the other two couldn't find time. Last year when all three went Lady was unbelievably happy. Starr has an excuse and we love her just the same. Starr is doing well and working at her new job. I think Dave works their too. Hopefully they don't sneak off to the janitors closet too much and put smiles on their faces.

Work is the same. Cheng does his best to make it nice but the Stupid one's we can't fix seem to get more radical and father from reality. Thanks Cheng for doing it right.

We are trying to plan several things for the summer:

• A trip to Indiana so see Lady's parents.
• A weekend at the Cheat River Lodge in West Virginia. It has been a while since the last one.
• A weekend on ChincoTeague Island.
• A weekend in Florida for the Reception in May.

I got my first pay statement where they took less tax withholding out. Yes, it is nice to have the extra dollars but that means my tax bill will be larger next year. They don't mention that I will have about $1900 more to pay since they withheld less. Thanks Obama for the secret wedgie.

I see the Media must have been paid off since the gas prices have been creeping up (now at $2.17) and they haven't said one word about it. Last time they were screaming all the time. I guess Exxon's 400 Billion profit wasn't enough ... they need more to fund the exorbitant bonuses for the Executives.

Way to Go Manny ... you have been busted! You would have thought when the heat was turned up only a fool would test the waters ... oops ... you are the fool!

No Pollen!

Well, the week is coming to an end. It seems the days just fly by. AJ continues to get stronger and seems to do anything he feels like ... climbing, jumping or walking. He celebrated his first birthday on Tuesday and as usual destroyed a teddy bear cake made just for him. Wild Mom is doing well and getting ready for the wedding party to be held later in May. Her camps went well and the woods were left in one piece. Though most of the animals evacuated to safer areas. Peanut is well and looking for a new job. Interviews are coming but nothing yet. #1 and #2 continue to spin their wheels when it comes to interviews. Makes you wonder what is wrong? Starr is working and doing well. She is still recovering from the other week but getting stronger every day. Lew and Lil Princess will possibly be here this weekend, at least we are hoping so. We haven't seen them in almost two weeks and feeling some withdrawal pains. Lady is doing well but asking about a weekend vacation in a month or so. We are still trying to figure out if a trip to Indiana is possible in May. Do you realize we only have about 8 months till the next cruise? Ginger (the cat) passed this week as Age caught up to her. It seems different without her but she is better off and who knows ... maybe someday in the future we will see her again. For now, the memories are rich and many. I wish we had a few pictures of her as reminders. I managed to get the front yard cut but already it is in need of another one. What is the downer is that this is just the start of the growing season. Maybe winter will hurry back and stop the growing.

Work is the same ... busy and steady. Yes, "Can't Fix Stupid" reigns supreme. Now we have a new antenna in Aberdeen MD to get fixed up to our humble standards. We have a satellite feed now from Today's Christian Music (TCM) and I like it. I sure wish the station would put it on the air. It sure makes the time pass and the music isn't half bad. Sure beats what we have on the station on the weekends.

Anyone tired of Hockey Playoffs, Basketball Playoffs and the NFL Draft? I am. I am surprised there isn't any other sports news to focus on.

My rating of Obama's first 100 days --- "C" though I do give him an "A" on Personality. It is amazing how the Democrats with no plan or good ideas can win you over with words and personality while the Republicans have a solid plan but are inept at selling the idea to you.

Easter Pics

Lil Princess

Lew

Who can avoid saying yes to either of these kids?

Big #1

April 28, 2009

Happy Birthday ... The Big #1 .... to Aiden James Mellott ...
better known as AJ.

His recovery from surgery has been great ... first doctors report is Good.
His First Year has been very eventful.

Another Piece of Our Heart

Goodbye ... Ginger (the cat) ... she will be missed after all these years.

Warm and Lazy Day

Should be a great weekend. The temperature should be Mid-70's and sunny. Just what I wanted so now I can do the yard work that is needed. AJ is doing great. He is almost his old self. He still gingerly uses his arms but after last night and his climbing I feel those days are past. Peanut is doing well and already starting to job hunt. I wonder if I could hire her to train #1 and #2 how to find a job. You would expect pride to kick in soon and motivate them. Wild Mom is off again at Camp Bluebird. She has been there since Wednesday. This afternoon she gets home and tonight she will head downtown to a church retreat. It must be nice to be on the go all the time. Not, I am glad to be a homebody for a while. I miss the food, my bed and the little ones. As far as I know Lew and Lil Princess will be over for the weekend. Ginger the cat isn't doing so well. I am afraid her time is measured in days and they are only a handful in number. She has a mass on her shoulder and isn't eating or drinking very much. She basically just lays around sleeping. Starr is doing well and hopefully going to be more involved with her firefighting buddies. National Certification is the goal. Lady is well though she is fighting the sniffles. Hopefully this warm weekend will help her get ahead of this stuff. Maybe we just need to go for a quiet get-a-way somewhere? ChincoTeague or Cheat river?

###########

If a town passes a law with a 72% majority ... where does a Judge get off declaring it unconstitutional? He should administer the law equally and fairly as the voters determined. The voters have a right to determine how they want their town run. If a small percentage of voters don't like the new law ... then move to somewhere they agree with! Since when did the Minority run this world? This is a great reason for term limits for a Judge. After awhile some of these Judges seem to get arrogant and think they know best.

Government Motors (GM), err, the old General Motors should just cut their losses and move on. Lets quit bailing out a sinking boat and do something with our money that has a better future. The Unions deserve what they get. They have raped the industry for 50 years for their benefit ... it is time for them to bend over and get a good dose of their medicine.

Don't you just love it when Tiger falls short and the person the Media does give a chance of winning ... wins. If Tiger wants to be great ... let his record speak ... not the Media trying to hype up the ratings and create a story to report.

The Conclusion draws Nigh

Tuesday, April 21. The trips are over and now it is time to get back to work. AJs surgery went very well and it did not take nearly as long as they thought. Which is good. We now are awaiting his return home and have our fingers crossed that will happen today. I was told they will release him once he starts crawling and walking. I can imagine the little guy is pretty sore, I know I would be. Peanut is fine knowing her little guy is ok. These past two weeks have been a whirlwind of activity and hopefully now things will settle down into a dull roar. Well, after 6 weeks, Wild Mom is back in Florida though she won't be there long as more planned trips are upcoming. No one can ever say she just sat still and did nothing exciting. She did manage to get some shopping done in Pigeon Forge and naturally the car was totally packed for the rest of the ride south. There was an antique auto show in Pigeon Forge and both sides of the street were packed with antique cars. I could easily believe they stretch for about 9 miles through town. Did I ever see some nice ones, good thing my checkbook was at home. We left pigeon Forge after having breakfast at The Apple Barn and a side trip to the Old Mill Candy Factory and then went straight through the Smokey Mountains. I love that drive though it does add some time to the trip. We stopped in Woodstock Ga. and picked up Starr for the ride south. That was a lot of fun and we were able to spend time and chat a lot. It is fun listening to someone talk about their dreams and plans. The excitement and hope just oozes out as they do. Something that we haven't had the luxury of in a long time. All is well and full of dreams in Woodstock. We stopped in Montgomery Al. at a BBQ place and it was very good. It did make the rest of the ride hard since my body wanted to rest and not drive. After a quiet Sunday in Florida, I headed home on Monday. The return ride home was long and uneventful. I dropped Starr off in Woodstock and finished the last 11 hours by myself.

Now it is back to work, yard work and paying for these little jaunts across the country.

He is Alive!

Another week and this one will prove to be a tough one. AJ has his surgery on Friday and it is something we all dwell on. Sunday, we had the whole church pray for him and that helped knowing others will be praying for him on Friday. Peanut is worried and that goes without saying. Also this week contains Tax Day. I finally finished Monday night and will file it tonight. Another task finished for the year. Yes, I paid for several people on welfare. It is sad when some welfare recipients live better than the taxpayers. After 40 days with no caffeine, I am able to drink coffee and tea once again. Actually, several times I have found myself drinking water instead of coffee or tea. What did I gain for the sacrifice? Well, I have a few new insights and feel better about a few things. Friday night is also when I will take Wild Mom home. After 6 weeks, she is ready to get back to her house and friends. We will miss her but I also understand the desire to "get home". I will even get to spend some time with Starr as she rides down to Florida with me. Could it get any better? The job situation for #1 and #2 remains in a frozen state -- no change. Lil Princess, Lew, and AJ looked smashing in their Easter outfits. Of course, the chocolate face and hands went without saying. Doesn't the Easter Bunny bring anything else than chocolate? The dining room was full Sunday with all the grandkids and family. How can we be so easily changed to let the family meal time around the table be taken from us. Those moments are precious and full of memories. I am so thankful that for just a moment in time we shared that time. Though the sleep monster held Peanut and #2 back from the Easter Sunrise service they battle through and made the 11:00am one. For that, thanks, it meant so much to share that time together. Also this weekend we watched the movies Fireproof and Flywheel. They are awesome and I challenge you to see them if you haven't. This is our second time and it was still great. The message they bring is timeless and really tugs at your heart. Are you right with God? Hmmm.

Nationals are 0-7 ... surprised? I am not. The basketball and hockey seasons are ending, now the never ending playoffs start ... Ughhhhhh. Dancing with the stars this season will never be the same with Holly and Steve gone.

Springtime Daze

It is back to the grind as the vacation season ends. The trip was great but now comes the ugly part ... paying for it. Plus to make life worse I am doing my taxes. It is a double dose of bewilderment of how to make things stretch that far. I sure wish bowling would hurry up and start again. There are a few things I want to try before I forget them. We always end early when the Ladies State Tournament comes to town. The Youth bowling doesn't start until after school ends. The next big event will be AJ's surgery on the 17th. After that I will be taking Wild Mom home to Florida with a swing through Pigeon Forge. By then she will have been here almost a month. Life will never be the same. With Easter just days away I am looking forward to seeing the kids dressed up in their new outfits. Lil Princess is sure to get the second looks. Though AJ and Lew will be cute in their clothes. I wonder how many of the older kids will make it on Sunday Morning? Lady is recovering from the time-off and getting used to the work schedule. No changes in #1 or #2 job situation. They have had some nibbles but no bites. Peanut is slimming down. Sure hope she doesn't fly away in a strong breeze. Can't wait till the bikini gets pulled out and tried on.

Baseball season is here and the Braves are 2-0 while the Nationals are well on their way to another bad season. Tomorrow is the first round of the Masters and I am looking forward to seeing and sleeping through so of the days. Cheng is out till next Tuesday so work will be a special challenge.

The End of the Adventure

Well, the adventure is over. We arrived home last night about 0200 am. It was a long drive but a lot of fun. Will I do it again! Heck yes. We had lunch and a great visit with Lady's parents in Indiana. Her niece was there and we wrestled and tickled and put ice everywhere. She was so full of energy and hopefully I wore her down a bit though sometimes she put up a really good effort. Seeing lady's mom and dad was great especially since it has been a while. We talked and laughed about many things and memories. The food was great and lady managed to bring home a bagful of homemade noodles. Enough to do some serious damage to a bowl of mashed potatoes and gravy. We managed to stay just ahead of the weather though sometimes when we stopped long enough it would catch up. The ride was accident free but the traffic jam in Columbus Ohio was enough of a headache. Now that we are home, we will have to readjust to reality and get caught up on some of the things we have missed while on the adventure.

AJ's surgery is on April 17 with about 6 weeks of recovery. That same day after the surgery, I will head to Florida to take Wild Mom home. We need to get her home so she won't go into debt paying the phone bill. She is ready to get home and get ready for her next adventure ... Keren's wedding party and Camp Bluebird.

I went to work today and nothing has changed ... well it was worth a wish.

This years trip was a success and well worth it. I just wish it could have been longer and others come with us. Let me see ... where will the next adventure take me too?

If you had one wish ... what would you wish for?

Day Nine of the Vegas Adventure

We are spending the night in Terra Haute, IN. We just ran out of time trying to get to Lady's parents house. We should get there for breakfast since we are about 140 miles away. Driving today was good. No weather or problems. But time changes, a truck wreck, and construction combined with the 65 mph speed limit to keep us from reaching our goal. Lady once again was text queen. Wild Mom tried her hand at backseat navigating once she got her hands on the road atlas. We only missed three turns.

We should be home late Tuesday night if all goes well.

Day Eight of the Vegas Adventure

Well, I am writing this late since today's travel was really long. We left Vegas and drove until we were in Guymon, Ok. That was a long day ... some 858 miles. The trip home started early and very quiet for the first part. We sure hated to leave and start the journey back to reality. We had good weather and the traffic wasn't bad. In Tucumcari NM, we headed northeast to intersect with I-70. In Oklahoma, we started seeing the remnants of last weeks snow. Some places were still snowed in. A lot of businesses were closed. Lady quickly and effortlessly slipped into text mode and kept busy the whole day. Wild Mom tackled the crossword puzzles and crafts. It was nice cruising at 80 mph and the Toyota did very well and the mile per gallon stayed around 26.

Day Seven of the Vegas Adventure

Well, like all good things, it must end and we head home tomorrow. Saturday was a very relaxing day. We went to the Venetian and had lunch at the sidewalk cafes. We ate at Wolfgang Pucks cafe. The food was very good and very filling. The entertainment varied from renaissance singers and dancers to living art. We topped off the meal with some sorbet. After returning to our room we split paths as I headed out to bowl and Lady and Wild Mom headed to a show. No, it wasn't Chippendale's or Thunder Down Under. Bowling went well and as usual and I wasn't last and I did win some money. Now it is time to wait and dream about next year. I fought with the strikes but I was deadly on splits, picking up every one of them ranging from 5-7, 2-10, 5-6 and a myriad of double wood spares. Lady and Wild Mom really enjoyed the show. It was a collection of skits from illusionists, magicians, acrobatics, guys flying in the air and comedy. The little cafe downstairs makes a mean bagel-ham-cheese-egg sandwich and breakfast burritos.

Well, time to get some rest since we will be hitting the road early for the ride home. Still not sure of which way we will go since the weather is so messed up.

Day Six of the Vegas Adventure

Well, the fun continues. We drove the Vegas Strip at night and saw all the lights. If course there was a zillion people hanging around doing nothing important. That is except for the working girls. Who else would dress like that? Bowling was fun and I did ok. I wish for more but delight in the fact their were others with higher averages do a lot worse. I did manage to win a few side pots ... so that helped. Looks like the tournament schedule is:

2010 - Reno Nv.
2011 - Reno Nv.
2012 - Baton Rouge La.
2013 - Reno Nv.
2014 - Orlando Fl.
2015 - Wichita Ks. (25th consecutive tournament)
2016 - Reno Nv.

So it looks like a lot of fun. We did go to the Venetian Casino and saw the sights. They have a small Italian town built up including the river with Gondolas to ride in. This is all on the second floor of the building. The room is painted like a sky and is extremely real looking. When we first walked in you would think it is real, we did until we realized it was dark outside. The Sorbet was great and they had a Violin, Flute, Guitar trio playing love songs. They were really good. Saturday, we will go back and eat lunch there in a sidewalk cafe. We have been sitting here planning some more vacations ... that is fun. Lady is just taking in all the sights and keeping busy. Especially with the text messages. Wild Mom is her usual self. We have a fridge full of leftovers as she keeps bringing the doggie bags home. Today is laundry day so the washer and dryer are in full swing in the other room.

Well, time to run and get ready for Saturday.

Day Five of the Vegas Adventure

Well, we have arrived. The drive across Hoover Dam was awesome and crowded. The sheer size is breath-taking. We only had 104 miles to drive today so it was easy after the last three days. We arrived at the Resort and it rivals the cruise ship in features. The room ( 2 bedroom suite) has two bedrooms plus a fully stocked kitchen, sitting room and dining room. The bathroom is bigger than our room last night at Days Inn. The spa tub helps take up room along with the glass shower. We ate lunch at Harrah's, played Keno (no luck) and then came back for some rest. I may have to try out the massage facilities on the 2nd Floor on Saturday after my bowling experience. They have pool tables, air hockey, WII, Xbox centers and other game places for the gamers at heart. Too bad the kids didn't come along. The pool is big and a very active place. They have poolside activities much like the cruise ship. They are setup so that you can have a great time without ever leaving the Resort Complex. Tonight we will go to the 10pm showing of "The Blue Man Group" at the Venetian and Saturday night we will go to a Variety Show at Planet Hollywood. I am really looking forward to the BMG show it has been about 5 years since I last saw their show. Wild Mom is chilling out with her feet propped up while Lady is exploring all the amenitites of the Place. They even have an Arts & Crafts place ... that lit up Lady's eyes. Vegas has really grown and the traffic is nasty. We have used the shuttle bus or walked all we can. We are located one block off the Strip but can see the lights very easy.

Time to rest and get Ready for Tonight.

Day Four of the Vegas Adventure

A long day, we went from Amarillo Tx to Kingman Az. Rolling along at 80 mph helps too. I managed to drive 107 miles today without touching the brakes. The day was great with no weather and clear blue skies and the low 60's. There is not much to say since the terrain was mostly desert and very little trees. I did like just looking at the terrain and seeing so many different things. I was disappointed that we didn't get to see any wildlife as we drove through that desolate place. The highest elevation we reached today was 7250 feet. I think so far we have drove through the reservations of Cherokee, Hopi, Zuni, Navajo, and several others I can remember. Custer would have been proud of me not losing my scalp. Flagstaff did have some snow on the ground. From Seligman Az to Kingman Az (some 90 miles) we drove on the historic Route 66 instead of the Interstate. What was nice was that each town had a Historic Route 66 building with vintage cars all around it. Some of those cars were really nice. We ate lunch at Sky City Az. and had to really work to keep Wild Mom out of the Casino. The highest I paid for gas was $2.17 in Flagstaff but the highest we saw was Clines Corner NM at $2.49. Good thing I didn't need gas there. Tomorrow will be really easy as we only have about 101 miles to go. Lady and Wild Mom did pretty much the same thing as the previous days. Princess must have worked today since Lady only got 750 texts. Wild Mom must have chatted with most of Florida as she kept the cell circuits busy. Lady didn't like the elimination results so she will have to watch it next week and hope.

Las Vegas ... here we come.

Day Three of the Vegas Adventure

Well after a restful sleep in Little Rock Ar., we are going to try out the beds in Amarillo Tx. We even manged to get here in time for Lady to see the eliminations on Dancing With The Stars. We ran into a very hard rain just west of Fort Smith Ar. There must have been a hundred frogs killed as that frog strangler of a rain came down. They predicted hail, lightening, and tornadoes but we saw none of those. After we got through it the sky cleared and we had a beautiful day for driving. It was 72 degrees and sunny as we cruised the Interstate. At one point I went almost 100 miles without touching the break. For the day my average was 70.2 miles per hour. The highest gas price was $2.02 per gallon. We did contribute to Dennys as we ate breakfast there. Not much changed for Lady and Wild Mom. Well, Lady did forget her camera in Little Rock so we will have to arrange to have it sent back to us when we get home. We had dinner at Texas Roadhouse in Amarillo and it was very good even after Wild Mom sent it back to be made into charcoal. Mine was medium rare and very juicy. Once again ... I ate too much. I am trying to figure out how to squeeze a midnight snack at Whataburger. Tomorrow we will try and make Kingman Az. but I fear we may only get to Flagstaff Az. Especially if we have to stop a lot. The Toyota is doing quite well as a road car. I even got 29.1 miles to the gallon on one tank today, the rest averaged 25.5.

Let me see if I can recall anything from home. #1 is counting and recounting our bowling winnings from the Sunday Night league. #2 needs to get dog-washing refresher course. He could even call Wild Mom and update her on Muffin. Peanut's working days are drawing to a close as the week ends. Starr is having a blast moving and cleaning the old apartment. Not sure what Princess did today, surely wasn't work, since she text Lady at least a 1000 times today.

Beautiful

A Lil Princess at her finest ...

It is worth a second look ...

Day Two of the Vegas Adventure

Day two has ended as we spend the night in Little Rock Arkansas. Lady needed to get to a TV to see Dancing With The Stars or we might have made Fort Smith AR. The day started off with breakfast at the Apple Barn in Pigeon Forge. As usual it was great and we started the trip stuffed ... more business for the rest areas. Also many plans were made for the next time we pass through Pigeon Forge. We met up with a friend ... Blue ... in Memphis TN. He drives an 18 wheeler for Prime Inc. We had a great dinner and spent a couple hours talking. At one point today, Lady was texting so much the keyboard just leaped across the car. Lady spent most the day reading, texting, sleeping and sewing. Wild Mom did her usual ... knit, read and sleep. It is amazing how many snacks she has squirrelled away in the backseat. I spent the day driving ... fun! Gas has been pretty consistent hanging around $1.85 per gallon. We haven't drove through this area much since we left Blytheville AR in 1978. So the changes have really changed the looks but we were still able to find things that we could remember. Tomorrow we hope to make Amarillo Tx.

Day 1 of the Vegas Adventure

Well, the first day of the trip is over. We are in Pigeon Forge. Better yet, they have no wireless so you are reading this later. The trip was uneventful except for the 90+ minute delay in Bristol as the NASCAR race ended. 10 mph on the interstate was dumb. I won't even go into my feelings on this topic. Sunday before the trip was good. Lil Princess looked georgeous in her green and white dress. While we went to pack and leave on the trip, Lil Princess and Lew went to some friends to play with the baby goats and rabbits. Lady and Wild Mom are doing good except for the snacks ... before we reached I-81 they were into them. For the most part Lady slept (partially because of the sun) and Wild Mom knitted. Three times, the person passing me got pulled over for speedin. When you pass a trooper and then he pulls out and flips the lights on, even if you are innocent, the old heart races until you realize it was the other guy. That is also a great way to keep awake cuz the adrenalin does flow faster. Just so you the reader isn't disappointed, we did eat dinner at Denny's. Hopefully tomorrow we will make Arkansas and spend the night. Well, it is 7am ... time to wake these sleeping beauties ... later.