The Zephyr - Day Two

Well, I really enjoyed watching the sunrise from the observation car and drinking coffee in the cool train car. All the glass chilled the place down. Breakfast was spicy with salsa spread all over a quesadilla topped off with a big bowl of grits. The train arrived in Chicago about an hour late but no problem as I still had over a four hour wait for the California train. One thing that has made it clear not to travel alone, is there is no one to watch the luggage while you do anything. Where ever you go, you drag it along. Somethings never change ... people complain and grouse about everything. Sometimes, I would even volunteer to toss them out the bottom door at 60 mph. This train is longer and a little bit fuller. But so far I have managed to not have a seat mate so far on this leg of the trip. 5 pm and we are in Galesburg Il., fixing to head across the Mississippi River. Should prove to be a long night, the man across the aisle took a nap and snored louder than the train. Dinner was once again great as I ate with a Farmer and his son ... never will guess what we talked about. Also a retired Activity Director from a Senior Care Facility. The three of them were from the same town so I only had to listen while they reminisced about home. Tomorrow should be interesting ... it is snowing pretty good right now. Well, time to catnap again ...

The Zephyr - Day One

Well after waiting for a year the journey finally begins. I arrived early to Union Station to allow Cheng the chance to escape DC before rush hour. Unlike Dad's first time there, I didn't get beat up by the Police during an arrest in the men's room. I did visit Sbarros and ate pizza for lunch. I think I have always done that ... nothing like some grease before a long train ride with aircraft sized restrooms. Human nature is the same ... pushing and shoving to get out the waiting room. They still only managed to get to the train car 1 person ahead of me. Hey, you have reserved coach tickets ... you have a seat ... relax. It seems that the seats have been placed farther apart, I can barely reach the foot rest on the seat ahead. One thing new is the power outlet at every seat. That is great, now I wish they had WIFI. I have found the setup if I get that new crackberry on how to use it as a modem. Mafia Wars all the time! My seat mate for this leg of the trip is a young lady who graduates from the University of Illinois as a school teacher. She was very talkative about her student teaching that she just finished. She spend most of the time doing exercises in her Advanced Spanish Grammar book. How much could St. Marks use her for their Spanish classes? The Dining car was redesigned and for the most part for the good. We still get plastic china, a far cry from days gone by, but hey, they work. Dinner was very good. The steak was perfect and very tasty and I even managed to save room for some Hagen Daz vanilla ice cream. Dinner conversation was with a retired school teacher from Detroit. Very interesting was their views on Obama and Education. My Soduku puzzles are getting a work out though my current one is a bear. Having to really think. I really didn't sleep for any time length ... I catnapped for short periods and then moved about watching the scenery. Well, time to catnap again ...

To: Lady

Need 14 get 17

Well, one week to go until the Great Train ride of 2010 begins. Not that I am eagerly looking forward to it but I can't wait. My buddy from California will meet me there and we will bowl some and talk a lot. This past weekend was a good weekend in that Lady and I attended the "Weekend To Remember" Conference. We attend these as tune ups to our marriage. Is it the solution or guarantee of a successful one? No, but it sure helps. I didn't get to attend Sunday's morning session as the Radio Station decided to burp and require my assistance. Oh well ... a job is a job. Bowling was mixed bag. My youth team lost (1-3) but Lew had a great day (78-65-84). Really great was when he got up to bowl in the last frame of the last game. If he got a spare and 4 pins his team would win the game. He threw a good first ball, then picked up the spare. With everyone cheering and even holding their breath he threw his next ball and got 7 pins. For a kid with a 57 average, he performed as a pro. The place broke out in a roar. I don't think he fully grasped what he accomplished but he loved the attention. I was proud of him. Sunday night was the same. We lost to a team we should have beat easily. So our journey to the bottom continues with no end in site. Other than Sunday, we didn't see the grand kids since we were at the conference all weekend. That being said I have no comments on #1, #2 or Starr since I don't have any first hand knowledge or observations. Thursday, we finished our Bible Study of David Jeremiah's "Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World." It was great and I recommend it if you are looking for a good study. I did manage to order our next course of study. It is called "Modern Parables", we will take 6 Bible parables and study them. There is a short movie showing the Parable as it might happen in today's world. Then we will see an application video of applying it to our life. It should prove to be fun as I have watched the first movie and it is well made and thoughtful.

Nationals ... 0-10 ... Different players same results ... They have losing down to a science. Given the Saints victory ... maybe in 20 years the Nationals too ... will make it to the top! Its about time for the Redskins to find that one season that will propel them for the 20 years too. When was the last time they played in the big game ... 1991? 19 Years?

Reflections on a Train Ride

Well, another week comes to a close. Why does time have to pass so fast. I want a lazy slow day that you can enjoy. I wonder if I should start saying "no" more often. The Church's multimedia project moves right along with a lot remaining to accomplish. Our Lenten Bible Study is great though the dynamics did change a bit with the addition of more people. More people means more ideas and thoughts and that is good.

This weekend we will be attending the "Weekend To Remember" conference in Reston Va. Our best friends are also attending so that means we will have a great time. What should I do for "Date Night" on Saturday? The best part is that this weekend is all free.

I booked my trip to Reno this week and now all I have to do is wait. This will be the first time in many years that I will travel to Reno alone. That realization generated a lot of thoughts of Dad's trips with me. He loved that train ride just as I do. Another thought was of George and his last trip with me. We talked so much that week, and a lot of it was personal, if I could have known that 8 weeks later he would be gone, ... well, I don't know. I have been making this annual trip since 1991, Toledo Ohio started it all and this year it will be #19. As I think of the years past I realize how much it has impacted my life, my memories, and my thoughts. My wish was that everyone in my life could experience that trip with me. I thinks bonds are formed and strengthened to withstand life's pressures. It is almost like a pilgrimage that occurs the last weekend in March.

Bowling on Sunday is going well. Lew is very consistent but that last game each week is a challenge as the attention spans decrease and the kids start playing and goofing around. Sunday Night league is a challenge as we are stuck in the middle of the pack. The team chemistry has changed a lot since George last bowled. We are competitive but that last piece we need to breakout and climb up to the top has been found yet.

The house is quiet and #1 and #2 continue as usual. No new words when it comes to employment ... so the spring jobs I have planned now have ready workers available. Lew and Lil Princess are a blessing and watching them grow up is fantastic. Lil Princess is becoming such a little lady, you just want to hold her and say "stop growing up." Yes, she has an attitude but that also makes her lovable. Lady is busy with the Church Easter Egg project. The house always has the smell of chocolate, coconut, and peanut butter wafting about. The diet was blown with all the samples laying about just begging to be consumed. Wild Mom is getting ready for camp next week and that is one of the highlights she looks forward too. About 4 weeks till Lady and I visit her and I go to my 40th High School reunion. has it been that long? Can't be, I am only 22!!

Heading for a Warmer Day

Well, it is Friday already and it doesn't feel like it. They predict the weather will be extra nice (50's) so we can keep our fingers crossed. It seems like we had something to do every night this week. Meetings, Bible Study (x2), Computer work, and then the reading and study to support the Bible Study. What ever happened to the nights you could come home and watch TV and then be bored? We find so much stuff to cram into every minute of our day. No wonder we burn out. Looking forward to Saturday as we venture to El Agave for a great lunch. Starr is supposed to come along. We found a great little restaurant has very good pizza's ... I can't wait to go back and try them again. Everything is fresh and not cooked down into a crusty topping.

Next weekend is the "Weekend To Remember" in Reston, so we will be out of pocket Friday through Sunday. #1 and #2 still are looking. #1 even managed to help around the house this week ... Miracle? Lew and Lil Princess will be over Saturday Night and liven the place up. They are guaranteed to undo all the cleaning that Lady has done to this point. She is still limited by her knee which acts up quite often and painfully at times. Her doctor appointment is Tuesday so hopefully she will get some relief then. But it is funny to see Lil Princess do something she is not supposed too, then Lady goes to get her and Lil Princess runs down the stairs ... because Nana can't go down there with her knee. Don't you just love it! Now that most the snow is gone ... I can see the mess my yard is in ... lots of work to do! I did lose one section of fence so I will have to get out there and fix it ... that is once the mud goes away. Work is the same. It gets hard getting up to commute in ... shoot, I even preferred the Dentist one morning. Times change and sadly we change even slower. Only two more weeks until I head for Reno on the train. I so look forward to that trip every year. Lots of cat naps, reading, and just watching the countryside rolling by. I wish everyone could experience that once ... shoot I probably would even pay for it once. The computer work is picking back up. The downside is that it consumes what little free time I do have ... but the money is nice.

When asked if I regret anything? I answered "only that I didn't do a better job than I did."

Thought for the Day: Remember that being a Christian is a life-long journey toward benefiting others in Christ. Don't expect to be free from sin and error overnight and do not judge yourself or others harshly. Maintain good morals and good habits that glorify God in your body in everyday life --- not to brag or boast, but to glorify God.

Meteorological Spring

Can you believe it ... it is March already and the first day of meteorological spring and a snow storm is heading here on Tuesday night. Wonders of it all! Life goes on for us though at times the past couple weeks it has been a test. That also means that our next cruise is only 10 months away. Bowling is going good with both the youth team and the adult team in the middle of the pack. On the youth side Lew and I bowled against each other and that was fun though the competitive spirit was very high. On the adult team we had a good night, the first in several weeks. We finally had everyone on the same page and thus we knocked off the #2 team. Maybe we can put a run together and get back into the fight. Two weeks left on our Bible Study using David Jeremiah's Book. Now comes the hard part ... figuring out the next study. Oh well. Work is the same pain in the kazoo, only redeeming part is a lot of people out out doing different things so the office is relatively quiet. Wild Mom is doing fine except wishing for more company. She has camp coming up soon so that will keep her busy. We will be there in April. Lady is nursing a sore knee. She has an appointment scheduled on the 9th if she can last that long. Also lady's favorite time is here ... Easter Egg time ... another project she has seemed to inherit over the years. She did not bowl last night so she could rest after having the grand kids all weekend. They quickly learned ... go down the stairs ... Nana can't catch you then. Lady also gets her new Laptop tomorrow so she can get on-line easier. Maybe even get to answer some emails that have stacked up. #1 and #2 have no change to report on their status. Will we have a party when it does? Lew was fun though he needs to learn to let his bowling ball do the talking ... gee he learns so quickly and early. Lil Princess was a chatterbox all weekend. It was fun but she was very high maintenance ... wonder who that reminds me of!!! She loves her dresses and hair bows. Now she is pressing to "go bowling." lady brought her up to the alley the weekend before last and now she wants it to be a constant affair. My friend Blue is in the hospital in PA. Hope he gets better soon. If the storm up north had not been on-going, I think we would have made a side trip up there. We might still do it this weekend ... time will tell.

Your First Senior Moment?

Snow on the Horizon

Well, it is Wednesday and the week is half over, it is 1/2 price Burger Day, I am alive, life is ragged, snow is predicted and work continues to bite me in the bum. So for all intents and purpose, it is good. So I won't get on my soap box ... this time.

Our near term schedule looks like this:
12-14 March - Weekend to Remember @ Reston VA.
22-29 March - National Bowling Tournament @ Reno NV. (Train)
15-18 April - 40th Reunion @ Pensacola FL. (Car)

So it should be fun for the new few months. Wild Mom is doing well and eagerly awaiting Lady and I coming down. I can imagine how long the sonny-do list is! Lady is hanging in there. The twists and turns of life weigh heavy but her knee hurts and at times gives her a lot of pain. Must have overdone it while following the exercise DVD. Monday she gets her new laptop to replaced the old one that finally died. #1 and #2 still are unemployed with no opportunities on the horizon. It would drive me crazy to sit there all day waiting for the employer to come to my door and offer me the job of Company President. Lew and Lil Princess are still a million laughs. Lew is doing well in his bowling league. I believe his average is 51 and he has been very consistent. Never being more than -5 or +15 off his average. My team bowls against his team this weekend and he has learned well from #1 and is already talking the smack of how good he is. Lil Princess is growing into such a little lady. Hair bows, dresses and stocking are the order of the day when it comes to dressing for Church. She will someday break a lot of hearts. Starr has finally gotten her mouth fixed ... sorry it wasn't closed (j/k) but she had her bad teeth removed that were very painful. It is nice to hear she is actually enjoying things now the pain is gone.

**********

If I live, work, call it my home ... then I will respect its flag and anthem by standing. You can choose not too as it is your right but go somewhere else that you respect, don't stay here. Don't disrespect my Flag and Country!

Dan Snyder ... look at the wizards! When you have a LOSING team, do what they did. Get rid of the overpaid and prima-donna and retired-on-the-field players and win like the Wizards have done.

LEST WE FORGET

Ruth went to her mail box and there was only one letter. She picked it up and looked at it before opening, but then she looked at the envelope again. There was no stamp, no postmark, only her name and address. She read the letter:

Dear Ruth:

I`m going to be in your neighborhood Saturday afternoon
and I'd like to stop by for a visit.

Love Always,
Jesus

Her hands were shaking as she placed the letter on the table ... "Why would the Lord want to visit me? I'm nobody special. I don't have anything to offer." With that thought, Ruth remembered her empty kitchen cabinets. "Oh my goodness, I really don't have anything to offer. I'll have to run down to the store and buy something for dinner." She reached for her purse and counted out its contents. Five dollars and forty cents. "Well, I can get some bread and cold cuts, at least." She threw on her coat and hurried out the door. A loaf of French bread, a half-pound of sliced turkey, and a carton of milk ... leaving Ruth with grand total twelve cents to last her until Monday ... Nonetheless, she felt good as she headed home, her meager offerings tucked under her arm. "Hey lady, can you help us,lady?" Ruth had been so absorbed in her dinner plans, she hadn't even noticed two figures huddled in the alleyway. A man and a woman, both of them dressed in little more than rags. "Look lady, I ain't got a job, you know, and my wife and I have been living out here on the street, and, well, now it's getting cold and we're getting kinda hungry and, well, if you could help us ... Lady, we'd really appreciate it ..." Ruth looked at them both. They were dirty, they smelled bad and frankly, she was certain that they could get some kind of work if they really wanted to. "Sir, I'd like to help you, but I'm a poor woman myself. All I have is a few cold cuts and some bread, and I'm having an important guest for dinner tonight and I was planning on serving that to Him." "Yeah, well, okay lady, I understand. Thanks anyway." The man put his arm around the woman's shoulders, turned and headed back into the alley. As she watched them leave, Ruth felt a familiar twinge in her heart. "Sir, wait!" The couple stopped and turned as she ran down the alley after them. "Look, why don't you take this food. I'll figure out something else to serve my guest ..." She handed the man her grocery bag. "Thank you lady. Thank you very much!" "Yes, thank you!" It was the man's wife, and Ruth could see now that she was shivering. "You know, I've got another coat at home. Here, why don't you take this one." Ruth unbuttoned her jacket and slipped it over the woman's shoulders. Then smiling, she turned and walked back to the street ... without her coat and with nothing to serve her guest ... "Thank you lady! Thank you very much!" Ruth was chilled by the time she reached her front door, and worried too. The Lord was coming to visit and she didn't have anything to offer Him. She fumbled through her purse for the door key. But as she did, she noticed another envelope in her mailbox. "That's odd. The mailman doesn't usually come twice in one day."

Dear Ruth:

It was so good to see you again.
Thank you for the lovely meal.
And thank you, too, for the beautiful coat.

Love Always,
Jesus

The air was still cold, but even without her coat, Ruth no longer noticed.

***********

Perhaps a refresher of Matthew 25:31-46 is in order. Have a Blessed day!

Morning Thought

WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Press 1 for English.

Press 2 to disconnect until you learn to speak English.

Remember only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, JESUS CHRIST and the AMERICAN SOLIDER. One died for your soul, the other for your freedom

My Valentine

To The Love of My Life:

Thank You for being my Best Friend/Wife/Lover/Confidant. Who would have thought (certainly not most of our relatives) that our meeting so many years ago would have turned into such a great time. Though I don't say it enough, you are my reason for living and facing the giants each day. I can not face the thought of not being with you, so I pray "Come Now Lord Jesus" and spare us the separation should that time ever come. I Love You, Cherish You, Respect You more than anyone. 34+ Years and enjoying every minute!

In Memory of Billy J. Davis

My father/Dad/Best Friend

You are missed but I know one day we will pickup where we left off.
The Train rides will never be the same.
Love You so much!

The Importance of Walking

Walking can add minutes to your life. This enables you at 85 years old To spend an additional 5 months in a nursing Home at $7000 per month.

My grandpa started walking Five miles a day when he was 60. Now he's 97 years old And we don't know where he is.

I like long walks, Especially when they are taken By people who annoy me.

The only reason I would take up walking Is so that I could hear heavy breathing again.

I have to walk early in the morning, Before my brain figures out what I'm doing..

I joined a health club last year, Spent about 400 bucks. Haven't lost a pound. Apparently you have to go there.

Every time I hear the dirty word 'exercise', I wash my mouth out with chocolate..

I do have flabby thighs, But fortunately my stomach covers them.

The advantage of exercising every day Is so when you die, they'll say, 'Well, she looks good doesn't she.'

If you are going to try cross-country skiing, Start with a small country.

I know I got a lot of exercise The last few years, ... Just getting over the hill.

We all get heavier as we get older, Because there's a lot more information in our heads That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

AND

Every time I start thinking too much About how I look, I just find a Happy Hour

26 Inches

I am sitting here enjoying a hot cup of coffee. I have finally finished shoveling my driveway and the car is cleaned off and ready for church if they have it. I have shovelled in shifts since Friday night, just doing a little at the time. The schools have already cancelled Monday and Tuesday classes. What would they do if they had a REAL snow? I figured we got 26" here at home. Right now my hips and lower back are reminding me of the last three hours. I am ready for these storms to come on the weekday rather than messing up my weekends. That way I would get out of work instead of losing my play time. Lady and friends headed for the Eastern shore Friday for a Women's Retreat this weekend. They got there safely but now the big question is can they get home tomorrow?

Ok, now I am going to get on my soap box so you can exit the program if you so desire.

After busting my but today, I have moved #1 and #2 into the category of ungrateful and lazy moochers. Did they help with the snow shovelling? Hell, no! One person twice said they were going to help. But when they heard the next door neighbor might come over with his blower, they decided, "well, no since going out if the blower is going to help." The other just plopped his lazy butt in front of a video game only coming out to smoke or feed his face. We ran out of milk so instead of getting some he just let his friend walk several blocks in the snow to bring a gallon of milk. Could he walk up to 7-11? Hell no ... the game comes first. That tops the list for inconsiderate laziness. And what for ... to play his games that cheat every time he loses. I guess my fatal flaw is I give people too many chances and always hope for a change. Well, I am at the point that I feel that all I am doing is blowing in the wind and chasing pipe dreams. Well, I best get off this box before I really get pissed and throw them out into the snow.

February Already!

Winter continues to hold on. The predict snow this evening and this weekend. It would be nice if the snow did not get a chance to changed to that dirty stuff piled up all over the place. Everyone is doing fine with the exception of AJ who is under the weather. Work continues to plod along with Cheng out sick. Last Sunday, Lew started his first bowling league. He did very well rolling a 52-51-51 = 154. Not bad for the first time. It was so much fun watching him. The fist pumps, stomping foot, and pouting lips were all part of the first time. He was unhappy that he did not get one strike, but in time he will. The adult team on Sunday night continue to hang on to that 5th place spot. Lil Princess is talking up a storm but at times it is hard to decipher the words. But it is so much fun listening to her ... especially her facial movements as she talks. She is being more like a lady as she wants to wear the hair bows and dresses. Getting her to wear pants to Church because of the snow was a task not easily done. AJ is just a little dynamo ... into everything. Open our bedroom door and a buzzer goes off calling all the kids to it. Starr is doing fine while managing to cook some. Hmmm, where is our invitation? Peanut is still plodding through the schoolwork as graduation day grows closer. Now is when the computer questions pop up. Wild Mom is fine as she slowly returns to the world of Dr's. appointments, church, and crafts. Church is going well as there are signs of growth and people commit to helping more. #1 and #2 put their heads and muscles together in an effort to unclog a backed up toilet. Talk about a Laurel and Hardy experience.

Looks like the next big adventure is the train ride to Reno NV in March. I will be bowling out there for the National Tournament the 25-27 of March. This will be my 21st consecutive year of bowling in the tournament. Just think, I was a young man when I started! Boy, does bowling wear you out.

What does it mean, then, to be a Christian?

Christianity is Christ! A Christian is one in whom Jesus Christ lives by His Spirit, and one who allows the life and character of Jesus Christ to be lived out through his behavior, in order to function as intended to the glory of God (cf. Isa. 43:7).

The Week After

Can you believe that we have been home a week? Where does the time go. As usual we have been busy since returning ... mainly just catching up. We have booked the next adventure ... 01/09/2011 on the Norwegian Pearl. Now comes the hard part ... waiting till that day. Lady returned to work and is enjoying the start of the tax season for the Company. Everyone wants it yesterday. Wild Mom is settling in and finally got the Christmas stuff down in between appointments. But she did find time to go to the Gospel Sing on Saturday. Some things never change. Maybe we show call her "PowerShopper" instead! #1 has until the end of the month as that is when the contract expires. #2 is a shadow as he moves about with his friends. Peanut made the "President's List" at school. Amazing what happens when you believe in yourself. Now we will focus on the drama. AJ is growing like a weed and is all boy. Nothing is too tall to climb on or too high to jump off of. Lil Princess is talking and conversing now. I can't help laughing sometimes at her sentence structure and choice of words. But she gets her ideas across. Of course, I am drinking from a fire hose as I learn 3-year-old-ese. Lew is ever becoming the young man. Slow down and let us enjoy the child. Next Sunday, he will start his first bowling league. That should prove a very good source of a lot of laughs. Church is fine and growing, work is the same. We watched the movie "2012" last night with Green Giant, HDTech, and TL. It was entertaining but we are glad we didn't have to pay for the experience. The Cherry Pie and coffee helped a lot.

Congrats Colts and Saints ... my choices.

Maybe the Socialism Movement will stop now. Oh, well he will just move to another area and start anew. I guess middle class tax hikes and budget freezes are the next target in his agenda. He can't budge Banks, Big Oil, or Wall Street ... so take on the easy target ... the citizen.

Why not take all the unused FEMA trailers and ship them to Haiti? I bet you they won't turn them down! Hey Obama, while you are doling out all those 100 Millions to Haiti ... what about the homeless and jobless here? We haven't even finished New Orleans after Katrina!

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Fourteen

Well, today is our final travel day. The most excellent adventure comes to a close. The day and drive was beautiful. Leaving Greenville SC, the drive up US-29 was enjoyable and relaxed. Our thoughts were mixed as the idea we had to return to reality on Wednesday. We chatted about future cruises but there were more periods of silence than times of chatting. We stopped in Ruckersville, VA to eat some Mexican food at El Agave. It was good but we prefer our home restaurant in Warrenton. Like the trip so too must this blog end. Until next time ... Be Safe.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Thirteen

We left Lake City about 10 am and I was bushed from driving all night. I was amazed how our two GPS's couldn't decide on the right route. Toys! This was also a quiet driving day with us finally stopping in Greenville SC. That van doesn't get very good mileage and we only managed 50 mph with all our stops. What we need is a motor home ... hint ... hint. But, we had fun, laughed a lot and just chatted. That is ... when ever Lady and TL allowed us to get a word in edgewise. Despite being off the ship ... the shopping continues. Wild Mom is home, unpacking and planning her next adventure. She has also decided it was time to take down the Christmas decorations. Tomorrow is our last road day and I must sleep to be of any good.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Twelve

Were do I begin. Sunday morning started out as any other morning this past week. Breakfast at 8 and then an hour waiting to get off the boat. The difference today was we were heading home. Once we disembarked and got all our a luggage into the trailer we headed Northwest to take Wild Mom home. Dragging our bags to the opposite end of the docks is always an adventure. We headed out across Alligator Alley and boy did it live up to its name. There were a lot of them. Sometimes there were a dozen all basking on the shoreline. For some 60+ miles they lined the shore with only brief patches where they didn't lay next to another. They are very black in color and easy to spot. We did not get to see any moving ... guess it was nap time. We kept seeing one black bird that would sit on the branch with it wings out stretched and its mouth wide open. Was he trying to be lazy and let the bugs fly in? I will have to some research on that one. We finally managed to get a few pictures of the gators though we did not get very close. I made sure TL was always between them and me. I know I can out run her. We then turned north on I-75 and headed to our overnight spot in Lake City Fl. We even managed to see a wild pig and her piglets walking along the side of the interstate. Hope she doesn't cross the road or someone will be buying a new car. Green Giant, TL and HDTech remained there while Lady and I took Wild Mom home. That was a long side trip. I-10 is nothing but woods for some 280 miles. Add darkness, wind and rain and it is pretty boring at times. While at Wild Mom's, some 2 hours, we managed to chat, fix the antivirus program and her email working on her desktop and then get about 90 minutes of a power nap before heading back. We finally returned to Lake City 12 hours later after an all night drive. We dodged all the deer and wounded a possum. The trip to Milton Fl was named the Possum Run since I saw plenty of them ... had to be over 2 dozen over that stretch. The deer were also abundant but luckily none of them decided to race across in front of me.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Eleven, Sea Day 7

Well, we have departed Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas for Miami. Our most excellent adventure, at least the sea part ends at 8 am. Today was a great day as we went to the private island for a beach party. TL and I snorkeled and Lady sat in the sun working on her tan. This is the first time we have been here in about 7 years. It has really changed, mostly for the good. The only downer is they still don't have a dock and we must be tendered. Today's water made it impossible for HDTech, Green Giant and Wild Mom from going ashore. Dinner was in the Main Dining room, TSar's, and as usual the service and food were great. Most of the afternoon was spent napping and doing all those things needed to disembark tomorrow. Customs, liquor pickup, Cruise Rewards, last minute gifts, and napping are just a start of the to do list. I really got lucky in the last drawing in the Galleria. I won two prizes. The first was a bracelet made of Italian Glass and a necklace of a string of pink Pearls. Wild Mom claimed the bracelet and Lady took the Pearls. Two years running in winning the final night prizes. Maybe my luck will change this year. Entertainment consisted of the Crew Talent Show. Every act was great and interesting to see how those who have served us are so talented. Then Tim Kaminski and the Cats Pajama's brought the house down. We loved those shows. Well, time to get some sleep, the bags are packed and set outside the door.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Ten, Sea Day 6

Our last sea day is done. It finishes the trip from Costa Maya to Great Stirrup Cay. It was beautiful day of 76.4 degrees and overcast. But the sun broke through in the afternoon and the sunbathers were delighted. It didn't take long for us to find the shade and avoid getting burned. Everybody today went many different ways as we had things we wanted to do. We had breakfast in the Dining room but had lunch is the Garden Buffet as we sat in the sun. Dinner was at Teppanyaki, a Japanese Steakhouse. The Chef put a show on while he cooked our meal which turned out to be excellent. We then went to see "Cats Pajamas" and managed to get front row seats. Lady got sang too and we all acted like birds in the "Lion Sleeps Tonight." Madly rushing to the Stardust Theater, we made it in time for the Jean Ann Ryan's "Cirque Bijou." Great performance. We tried Karaoke but the people were bad ... no amount of alcohol could help them or us. Wild Mom rested today saving it up for one last blast at the beach at Great Stirrup Cay. She is planning on being Annette Funicello and hoping some of the crew will join her in a Beach Blanket Bingo. She really enjoyed the dinner at Teppanyaki. Lady and TL hit several give aways and exercised some ... believe it or not ... they are going to get serious about this when they get home. I guess the stairs finally got to them! Well, we lose an hour tonight ... so I am going to bed with no cookies or ice cream.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Nine, Sea Day 5

Costa Maya was a lot of fun. The Sun was out in full force and the temperature made it to 78.2 degrees. The port was smaller than I imagined but it was quaint and the land around it very flat for as far as we could see. We kept to our routine of Breakfast at 8:30. The ship docked so we were able to take HDTech onshore. It was amazing how much stuff was for sale in such a small area. The vendors were constantly trying to get you into their store and always wanted to deal to get you to buy from them. Green Giant got his tequila he wanted. But he has to wait until we get to Miami to get it. Wild Mom found a ring she wanted in every store but alas funds were the stopping point. Lady and TL were all over the place looking and dealing. I managed to find a bracelet for the girls in my life ... they are handmade. Wild Mom paid her dues for yesterday's escapades as she overslept in the morning and over napped in the afternoon. She did manage to collect all the charms for her bracelet. That thing must weigh 2 pounds now. The afternoon was free flow as everyone did what they wanted ... naps, sun bathing, or sitting on deck reading. The Sea Bass for dinner was excellent. We watched 2 shows by the Cats Pajamas. They are good and the show is very entertaining. Tonight ended with ice cream and cookies. We tried to get into the "Dancing With the Jewel Stars" but the place was full and sitting in the back would not have been fun.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Eight, Sea Day 4

Goodbye Belize ... it was a great day as the temperature reached 78.6 degrees and the sun came out in full force. We slept in till 8:30 and then had breakfast. Lady, Wild Mom and TL headed for town. We were tendered so they had fun on the long ride in. Speaking of fun ... Wild Mom fell for a Hispanic Tender Operator and he couldn't keep his hands off her. We need to teach him the art of "soft hands" so he won't bruise her any more. She is well and enjoying all the attention and night life on the ship. Lady managed to spend some money to in Belize City. What she bought should prove to be interesting when we get home. We, guys, sat on deck in the sun relishing its warmth. My nose took the worse ... but what the heck ... it is vacation time. I had my hot rock massage today and was very relaxed the rest of the day. Peanut needs to learn this stuff! The afternoon included more naps and ice cream ... a very important part of cruising. The evening show was called "Country Gold" and was done by the Jean Ann Ryan Dancers. "Miss Stretch Anyway but Loose" danced, once again showing the flexibility of the human body. I just can't convince Lady or TL to try it. We miss the grandkids especially on the pool deck when we see some of the other kids. Well, Lady just showed up with ice cream and cookies for a bedtime snack ... time to go!

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Seven, Sea Day 3

With Honduras in our dust, we head for Belize City and the Sun. That being said, it means our 3rd Sea day comes to a close. It started out a very lazy day with breakfast at 8:30. Any meal on ship takes about 1.25 hours to do. We didn't do any on shore excursions (we were tendered and that makes it hard for HDTech), so we just relaxed on deck in the 72.5 degree weather. SuDoku got a good workout, well, at least my mind did. Of course a few drinks were in order along with the soft serve ice cream. While the sun hid from us all day it was still beautiful. Wild Mom, Lady and TL hit the town of Roatan for some power shopping. $25 dollars later and a few miles walked, they returned to the ship ready for lunch and a nap. Dinner was at Cagney's, a superb Steak house that begs for you to eat at. We loved the meal and it was more than most of us could eat. Afterwards Green Giant decided to buy a watch. After about an hour of shopping, or better yet, questioning the pretty young lady from Saint Lucia about the watch he bought it. I didn't have the heart to tell him I bought the same watch for a fraction of the cost the "Everything $10 Store" 4 floors higher. Then we saw a young man, Chantz, do a music, tap, and jazz show. It was good but I am still waiting for the "Cats Pajamas".

Today's Weather: 72.5 Degrees and cloudy.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Six, Sea Day 2

It is getting warmer and the sun was out some this afternoon. We dock in Roatan Honduras at 8:00 am tomorrow. Another lazy day as we cruised farther south. We spent the day exploring and checking the ship out. Of course we took several short naps to keep our strength up. We eat at the big dining rooms for our meals. No since buffeting when we can get waited on hand and foot. That doesn't include the stops at the ice cream machine. For entertainment we saw the Jean Ann Ryan dancers do a show called "Band on the Run". It was 70's music. The one girl stretched and did splits that made you hurt just watching. Then we watched the "Newly Wed and Not So Newly Wed game." They had a couple married for 51 years, another for 19 and one couple married just 1 month. We laughed a lot at some of the answers and the couples reaction when the other said something equally embarrassing. Lady and TL walk about a half mile today to burn off some of the cookies and ice cream that had been consumed. Then they went to a shopping talk for the next port. My wallet got lighter even before they returned and we aren't at the port yet. Wild Mom must be sweet on one of the engineers. Her temperature control in her room would only work for about 3 hours at a time and she would call him back. ;) We called it a night at Midnight as the old eye lids got too heavy.

Current Weather: 71 Degrees and clear.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Five, Sea Day 1

Well, Day 5 has ended very well. We are on the ship and headed south to warmer weather. We started out being lazy as we were only 25 miles from the dock and couldn't check in before 12:00. The check in was hectic as usual as they tried to process 2000+ people as fast as they could. I hate all the old folks with electric wheelchairs as they are the world's worst drivers. I guess being handicap gives you the right to be a biatch. Almost every one of us were run over once by a bad wheelchair driver. We finally made it on board only to find the cabins weren't ready. So we improvised and had lunch and that was good especially topped of with soft serve ice cream, 2 cones to be exact. The afternoon was spent getting organized and unpacked divided by a evacuation drill with life preservers. Lady is so cute with hers on. Dinner was complete with good food and wine. Entertainment tonight was Tim Kaminski as very good comedian. My highlight was when they announced that Cats Pajamas would be doing 3 shows this week. They are one awesome Acappella group. After a nightcap in the 70's Disco bar we called it a night. I need my rest ... you know ... :) Wild Mom is doing good and scoping out all the single guys .. who knows what will happen by the end of the cruise. TL gave us a good laugh when she sent her stuff through the metal detector and every thing got spread between three other peoples stuff. Talk about a shoebox shuffle. Of course she has been bitten by the camera bug and sees the cruise through the lens of her camera. There is no doubt there will be plenty of pics. Right now looking out our glass sliding door we can see no lights from shore ... Bye Bye Miami! Right now we are almost past Key West headed for Roatan, Honduras. We will arrive there on Tuesday Morning. Tomorrow is a sea day so massages, Jacuzzis, eating and sunbathing are the order of the day.

Current Temperature: 50 Degrees and all the pools are 80+ degrees.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Four

Day 4 and we are in Fort Lauderdale Fl. The day started with rain and sleet. But the drive was uneventful and without incident. We didn't see much wildlife except for the numerous raccoons acting like road-kill. Wild Mom spent most of the time on the phone. And when not talking on the phone she practiced her lines ... Are we there yet? Lake Okeechobee was really big though it was hard to see sometimes because of the levees. Yesterday we saw a lot of horse farms, today we saw as many orange groves and sugar cane fields. We ended the night by eating dinner at Bubba Gumps Shrimp Company right on the Atlantic Ocean. The food was great and we had a blast looking at all the memorabilia from the movie. As we walked back to van after dinner, we saw two Princess Cruises heading out of port. Tomorrow, we have a short drive to Miami and the ship and the cruise really begins. While it is warmer here than at home, we are looking forward to the warm weather to the south.

Weather (01/09): 46 degrees and Drizzle.
Weather (01/10): 52 degrees and Partly Cloudy.
Weather in Belize: 77 degrees and Sunny.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Three

Well, we made it to Wildwood Fl. to end Day 3. It was a great drive in which most of the time we were the only car on the road. Tomorrow promises to be another great one as we go by the Everglades and Okeechobee. It was a short day so we could spend most of the time driving during daylight. We didn't see much wildlife but the views of the Gulf of Mexico were really nice. There sure are a lot of properties for sale down here. Lunch was at a hole-in-the-wall BBQ restaurant in Perry Fl. It was great BBQ and if we hadn't been travelling I think I would have ate a lot more. Dinner was at our old standby ... Denny's and it was also good. HDTech had a good day. Sometimes we wonder what goes through his mind as we ride along. Green Giant and TL were their usual selves. Playing with the GPS at times is a challenge and it is to simplify our lives? Lady was quiet today spending a lot of time cat-napping. I think she is ready for the driving to stop and spend more time walking. Wild Mom's eye is better now that she is medicating it. I just can't convince everyone to go swimming in the outdoor pool tonight. It is vacation time ... right?

Weather (01/08): 42 degrees and Cloudy.
Weather (01/09): 49 degrees and Chance of rail.
Weather in Belize: 73 and Sunny.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day Two

Day 2 was a long day but we made it to Panama City safely. We had light rain for most of the second half of the trip today. After leaving I-10 I had hoped to see some of the sights as we drove SR-77 to Lynn Haven Fl. We were running late so it was dark and not much to be seen. Biker Boy had a good day and that helps when there are a lot of miles to cover. We picked up Wild Mom so she will be able to go to the Caribbean now. We even managed to squeeze her bags into the trailer. She was so restless last night in anticipation that she scratched her eye and had to see a doctor. She is ok and except for some medicine she is fit as a fiddle for the trip. Dinner was at La Hacienda, while it was good it wasn't El Agave. Lady is well. She catnapped and chatted most of the day. Oh, we did stop at Denny's for breakfast. Hopefully we will find one tomorrow also. Tomorrow we will run down the US highways (19 & 27) to South Florida. Instead of pushing it in one day we are going to break it up into 2 easy days. Allows for more hot tub time! Bubba Gump's Shrimp on Saturday. We will get to see some of the Everglades and Okeechobee area. Who knows, maybe a gator will make an appearance. Green Giant never runs out of jokes. TL slept so much that she slept through the Eastern Time Zone and then remarked the clock was an hour off when she woke up. Of course, every one's cell phones ran down from the constant calls and texts. Good thing for car chargers!

Weather (01/07): 54 degrees and Cloudy.
Weather (01/08): 49 degrees and Chance of rail.
Weather in Belize: 82 and Sunny.

Most Excellent Adventure - Day One

Well, the day is finally here. After waiting almost a year, we have headed south to the warm weather. Wednesday was mainly a travel day ( about 450 miles) with us eventually spending the night in Greenville SC. We are about halfway to picking up Wild Mom. The scenic was great as we came straight down US-29 to I-85. Driving the Interstate makes you miss some of the great scenery the US highway provides. We splurged for lunch at MacD's and then enjoyed a good hot dinner at Cracker Barrel. Guarantee Denney's is on the menu for tomorrow. Even Lady managed not to buy out the store but we found a neat outfit for Lil Princess. Biker Boy traveled very good today. The van is a bit hill-challenged with the trailer on back but we managed to make it over them all. With luck we will pick up Wild Mom and then spend the night in Panama City. Of course this all hinges on how much did she pack ... the trailer will only hold so much. The camera's remained packed today so I have no first day photos. Green Giant kept us laughing with a steady stream of jokes and TL seemed to always be talking so we never had to turn the radio on.

Weather (01/06): 41 degrees, Sunny and Breezy.
Weather (01/07): 58 degrees, Sunny and light winds.

Rock Throwing Group

On the other side of the coin, it seems my "Rock Throwing Group" is still at it. You would think after a year of throwing rocks at the dead horse they would give up. But no, they still do and find pleasure in it. Please get a life and move on, those old bones will not come back to life so the continuing pummeling of the dead horse has no purpose except to make you feel good.

After listening to Pastor Jim on Sunday, I too agree that I am not who I should be when it comes to being a Christian. All I can do is keep trying and maybe one day get it right. I make no pretense that I have done everything right, made all the right decisions, or treated everyone correctly. I freely admit to my mistakes. But I only have to ask Jesus for forgiveness and with his blessing I am moving on. I have searched the Bible high and low and can only find one person who did it perfectly right ... and he is the one I am trying to live up too. So my little rock throwers, put your rocks away. As Christ wrote in the sand and said, "... you who are without sin cast the first stone ... " Well, you have thrown enough to kill the horse, maybe it is time you look at your life. Do you attend Church? Have you offered the olive branch of peace and forgiveness? Does your life speak to everyone as someone striving to be like Christ? I won't throw any rocks back. Stephen was stoned to death because he wouldn't lower his standards, and I won't either. What I believe to be wrong is just that ... wrong. I have my peace and forgiveness for that choice. Find another horse to stone! After more than a year ... get over it and do something else with your rocks. You have pressed for your freedom and emancipation since day one. You have it now ... so get a grip on your life and move on. Stoning this dead horse has accomplished nothing but waste a year of your freedom. Since we have been rejected because of our beliefs, we have moved on even to the point of changing our habits to avoid anywhere you frequent. If the sight of us bothers you so much why pelt us with rocks anymore and keep the memory alive? Move on and have your life with those you have so eloquently said are better than us and more of a family to you. Once again, why stone us again ... we have released you! Is it out of frustration that you have made the wrong choice and now regret it? It doesn't matter to us now ... as we live our life and move on, sadly without you in it. But that is what you wanted ... so it is a win-win situation. It is just irritating being stoned over this long dead horse. You want us to be better Christians ... well we are trying and changing our lives as Christ leads us. We suggest you might find a church to be part of and see how much Christ can change your life. It might be an eye opener! Judging Christians based on your feeling of us is the wrong way. Just because we have made mistake in our pursuit of being a Christian doesn't mean we worship the Devil ... that kind of counsel from friends, sadly shows their ignorance and reasons you should choose your friends better. Take your rocks and find something worthy to pummel.

This is my last post (I pray so) on this matter. Lady and I are moving on with our lives, we are tired of the pain and loss and sadly this new direction doesn't include you. If you insist on stoning the long dead bones of the horse ... you do so out of vindictiveness and hate ... I pray you find what Christ really means to you. Best wishes with your new family and friends. There is a time to put your rocks away and move on ... and the time is now.

The First

Well, the New Year has arrived and things are pretty much the same. The weekend was quite as was the welcoming of the New Year. We spent it with our best friends and toasted the New Year in. We would have tried it in the Hot tub but given we were just getting over our colds we chose not too. Plus, who wanted to jeopardize our vacation? The cruise is here and the trip down to the ship is now barely 48 hours away. The excitement level is building as we have waited for this time for almost a year. Wild Mom is also getting pumped as she finishes up her packing and preparations. We will pick her up Thursday and then head for Miami. The crud is making its rounds at the house. Me and Lady are past it while #1 has it good. Maybe he will learn NyQuil isn't the solution and all he got from drinking all those bottles is a lite buzz. Peanut is back to school today and starts the final stretch to graduate. AJ is all energy and such a blast to watch. He is trying to carry on a conversation but us adults haven't quite figured out kidspeech, especially from a 2 year old. Lil Princess is growing and becoming such a little lady. Lew had a sleep over this weekend so we didn't get to spend anytime with him. We wonder how much change will occur with them after we are gone for 2 weeks. Hopefully, #1 and #2 have included getting a job as their New Year resolution ... at least we can hope so! Starr is having a blast especially since she now has two new cats. Cats and Dogs ... the perfect storm on the horizon. It is good to see her happy and moving on with her life.

Good bye Jim Zorn. Sorry you were fired instead of the meddling and micro-managing owner with no football savvy. he is good at making money but no amount of money can buy you football smarts. Worse yet, you were fired because of the misfits the owner saddled you with. I have to say they were a pretty sorry lot. Old players trying to maintain their past glory, overpaid players soaking the team, and a few more who could care less and only worried about not getting hurt or doing what they were paid to do ... mainly play football at a professional level. Fire the team would be a good start and the best move would be to get the owner to quit being the coach.

DECEMBER 27, 1975

Sunday was a special day as lady and I celebrated our 34th year together. No, we did not have a party or do something exotic. We did what we liked ... be together and and just let the moment pass into our memories. Who we were 34 years ago is much different than who we are right now but what hasn't changed is our love. In 1975, she was my new wife ... now, she is my best friend. It is had to imagine it any other way. The memories could fill the biggest storage vault and best of all it is in our minds to be replayed with the simplest of effort. Lunch was simple ... MacD's, as the grand kids played on the floor and brought many memories back as we watched. Maybe the gray hair, wrinkles and extra inches exist for us but what I see through these hazy eyes is her love and how much I wish to be right there. Things go slower but that allows for time to savor every bit of the emotion and excitement. Life is always too fast and the special times are quickly pushed aside for the present and what it will do for you. I am thankful that we took the time then to create the memories that flood our thoughts. I couldn't imagine the emptiness if we stood here now having never shared or done the things that two people in love do as they live and grow together. Could we have done better? Yes, but from where I see this ... we have done a lot right to make these memories. Memories you ask? These are some of the special ones.

1. A beautiful woman reciting her vows in front of God, friends and me.
2. Standing there looking at our car on a snow pedestal, wheels inches from the ground, wishing we could start our Honeymoon.
3. The cat running away with our Pork Chop meant for our first meal together.
4. Standing in the living room of our first house, 4 bedrooms, wondering where we would ever find furniture. Our total possessions were outside in the Pinto.
5. Our first move to California, her first time (far) away from home.
6. Picking up bottles to cash in to wash clothes.
7. Driving in the Sierra's just to see snow (lot's of it).
8. Graduation from the University and the realization I would be able to spend time with my wife on weekends.
9. Watching her pin me upon Commissioning. Those little dogs never cooperate.
10. Those Thursday Nights when I was on Alert and eating dinner with her always praying the Klaxon wouldn't sound sending me scurrying to the plane. (It did happen, several times)
11. Coming back from a long B-52 mission to find the candle lit in the window.
12. Standing in a room looking at a 3 month old boy and wondering what our first child would be like. (Tuned out it was him).
13. Standing in a small Hospital Chapel, receiving another small bundle of love and joy.
14. The 3 month camp-out in California waiting for a house.
15. Ronda being named Volunteer of the Year. My wife the best ... well, I already knew that.
16. That long trip back to Virginia that has turned out to be our last move.
17. The rest of the story is known by all our friends and has been playing for 19 years.

How can I say anything but "WOW!" I love my wife and find it inconceivable that life could get any better. Well, except for Christ's Return. But then again, we will both be there. So the memories will never end.

I LOVE YOU ... RONDA

The Days After

Well, Christmas 2009 has come and gone. We are headed straight and fast towards 2010. I missed the Christmas Eve Service and being able to share it with my family and friends. Christmas Day was a great day spent with family and friends. The only downer was I was sick. From December 24-27, I spend almost all my time in bed or reclining when my breathing got bad. I am now back up and running with only minor left over effects. Christmas morning breakfast was as usual ... great. Breakfast Casserole and Fresh Fruit Salad, how can you go wrong? Me, Lady and AJ spent some fun time waiting for the older ones to wake up. Santa's gifts for the kids was a two part affair. AJ had our whole focus as he opened a mountain of gifts twice his height. Who says he isn't spoiled? The cutest part was his insistence to place each piece of torn wrapping paper in the trash bag before removing the next. That won't last long. We adults did not share gifts as we just spent the time together and watched the kids. The family meals and time sitting around snacking were special too me. We get lost in the gift part and lose the sharing time part. That made this Christmas very special and one to be remembered for a long time. Saturday, the second wave came as Lew and Lil Princess showed up to open their gifts. One word described that time ... Tornado. It was a blast as they opened gifts in a flurry of paper and played with each others and of course ... squabbled over the toys. Good estimate there was 3 kids with 15 new gifts between them and they still wanted to fight over just one. The Weekend ended with Church and the delayed Christmas Cantata. I would have to say from my stand point that this years Christmas was a very good one.

Bowling on Sunday was not a good time as #1 was absent and I was out of bed for the first time in 4 days. So my energy drained very quickly. Lady and I went to her workplace after bowling for their Holiday get together. It was nice, had good food and I saw people for the first time in a year.

#1 made two round trips to Myrtle Beach with his friend this past week. Peanut was invaluable in helping Lady get all the food, gifts and baking stuff ready. Star came over and called several times and just blended in to all the fun. It was great seeing her so happy. AJ, Lew, and Lil Princess made the whole place brighten up with their antics and unbridled excitement.

Wild Mom is excited as the Cruise is only 9 days away. Sailing anyone?

Other Family News: My brother had a heart attack on the 23rd and he is now home, feeling better and readjusting to life. A real good friend of ours and Wild Mom passed away after a long sickness, we will miss you Betty. My Aunt Madeline, age 97 passed away in her sleep Christmas Night. I have many memories of her and she will be missed.

Response to Previous Comments by "I Care"

RESPONSE TO COMMENT MADE TO THE BLOG "START OF CHRISTMAS WEEK.

Well, it seems someone doesn't like my blogs. I have allowed this comment so that each person may form their own opinions. I am disappointed that "I Care" feels like it is acceptable to make false accusations and then hide their identity. Seems like the cowardly way to address a problem if there is one. But this is life.

I take exception to the comment " but it seems like all you can do is bash her and tell her she is no good piece of trash and she is throwing her life away all because you don't approve of her ways and that she did not want to fall for you and all your stupid rules."

1. I have never bashed her in this forum. I have disagreed, voiced my sadness on her decisions but I have never bashed or trashed her on this site. For that matter, I have never bashed or trashed her with my words.

2. I have NEVER called her "Trash". For you to say that or infer that is saying what you want to have said.

3. Yes, I do not approve of some of the things she has down. Especially, living with a married man and playing house is wrong. And you don't have to be a Christian to know that.

4. We have supported her as much as she has allowed. We were there to help her get through High School, offered numerous times to help her job search, I have always tried to coach her to get back in school and get a degree. But our urgings met with passive words of acceptance and never any follow through.

5. She has shown us over the last several months that she wants no contact with us and to have no interaction of any kind. We have stepped back so that she can be independent and live her life her way. Go for it but we have never bashed or trashed her for doing it.

6. As for the statement - "I don't think it is all fair what you have done to her or the way you have treated her." That is your opinion. I would get a second opinion if I were you, your source is blurry. We have always treated her fairly and with love. At least, as much as she would allow.

7. As for "Dead Beats", this is of no concern of you. What goes on inside my home only concerns those that live there.

8. I have finished growing up and I am satisfied with the final product. All that is left for me is the polishing and effects of experience.

9. My Christianity is of no concern. I know who my Savior is and I am satisfied that I am doing his will. Am I perfect? No, but you or anyone else's opinion is of little or no concern.

I consider this issue closed. Further comments are being moderated as I do not want a flame war started between people taking sides.

She has set her life's course and we accept that.

As for "I Care", please remember that this is my blog site and what I say here is my thoughts and what I talk about is what I want too. If the subject or thoughts are not to your liking, then feel free not to read my words. You were not forced here or required to be here so as such you can leave just as freely.

Chuckles Abound

Some people never learn. As I sit here watching the pedestrians across the street, every now and then one comes along who makes you laugh even through their misery. To set the scene, 1 snow bank approximately 5 feet high, 1 dirty puddle of water about 4 inches deep, rush hour traffic with reduced lanes and 1 lady in a big rush. After dodging the rush hour traffic by running across 5 lanes of stopped traffic, she attempted to scale the snow and ice wall that stood between her and the nice clean sidewalk. Needless to say, she made it only halfway up before she lost momentum. In desperation she lunged for the top and only managed to slide and spin her way to the bottom back into the awaiting water puddle. Now as she sits there in the water, she is thoroughly pissed and extremely embarrassed. She once again she launches up the snow and ice wall but now the water only manages to make it icier and more slippery. Once again, she made it to the puddle without even making it halfway up and the dirty water cools her off. By now her dress is torn down the front, her right shoe hopelessly buried in the snow bank, her rear exposed from the slide and everything, hair, coat, clothes and papers, are dripping wet with the dirty water and who knows what else. She now gives up and walks the quarter block to the crossing she originally had no time for. Here she can use the path cut through the snow bank to reach the clean sidewalk.

Moral: Sometimes the shortest path isn't the quickest.

Start of Christmas Week

Four days until Christmas and it will be a white one. We got about 20" this weekend and my back and arms can attest to it. I spent a good part of Sunday clearing the driveway and sidewalk. Hopefully the sun will do some damage today and dry off the driveway. My luck will be that when I go home, I find the plows have pushed clumps of ice and slush into my cleared driveway entrance. For the most part, this weekend was a quiet, a stay in the house type of weekend. Lady did get some cleaning done and re-arranging done. Now comes the challenge of finding stuff once again. Lots of gifts for the kids were wrapped and put away until Thursday. If not AJ would have them all opened in a blink of an eye. Lew and Lil Princess stayed at their home this weekend. So our weekend was quiet as possible with just AJ there to entertain us. Perhaps Lew will be over Wednesday night to make the cookies for Santa, he was going to do the baking Saturday but the weather interfered. Church and Bowling were called off Sunday so we had a rare day to relax and do some other things. We managed to go over to Friends and bask in the warmth of the outdoor hot tub. We even managed to get a picture with the snow in the background. Picture us in the hot tub in 20" of snow and the outside temperature is 25 degrees. Sounds crazy but it was really nice. Two weeks from Wednesday, we head south to the warmer weather. Sad part is that we won't even miss the cold weather we leave here. Wild Mom is doing fine and getting anxious for the days to pass. She really wishes she had come up here for the Holidays, especially now that they will be white. Muffin is sick and giving her something to worry over.

I, and I alone made a decision this past week about some things in our life. Probably not the right one, but dang it, I am going to stick by it, no matter the outcome. Sometimes I get tired of feeling the boot tracks up and down my back. And there seems to be no end in sight, so I put a end to it.

Wednesday Night is Christmas Eve service at the Church. Would be nice to see all the family there ... but reality comes into focus and I will spend it with my wife as we always do. Can't get much better than that.

7 and Counting

One week to go till Christmas. Better yet, they are predicting 7-11 inches of snow this weekend and the temperatures will stay in the low 30's through Christmas. Result: A White Christmas ... the first in a long time. Many things are going on around the house and Church in preparation for Christmas ... so it is a bee-hive of activity. Yesterday, we received all our Cruise papers leaving only the packing and travel down there. As it grows closer the anticipation grows. Temps in the Mid-80's and sun, no work, and a lot of goofing off. Last night we were dreaming about a cruise to Australia in the near future. That would be awesome and such a dream come true. Would really be nice if Lady and I could retire by then and make it even longer and more special. This Sunday the kids have their pizza party to celebrate their season and get their trophies. I must not forget the camera as Lew will bowl and he will provide a lot of laughs and action shots. It dawned on me today that in 3 months is the National Bowling Tournament in Reno. This will be my 21st consecutive one. Seems like my first one in Toledo Ohio was only just a few months ago. Thinking back, we had just arrived in the Northern Virginia area and bought our house. So much has happened since that day ... good, bad, but for the greatest part an adventure. Yes, I wish a few things had been different, events and decisions, but they are memories to cherish for a life time.

Wild Mom is ready to go and I have all her cruise papers to bring to her next month. Sure wish she was here since she always wants a white Christmas. Lady is busy and enjoying the times. We seem to play a lot of Christmas music especially when the snow is falling. #1 and #2 have no change except #1's football team lost last night so his Friday morning is a rough one. Peanut run out of presents to wrap and is bored. School is great and she gets closer to graduating. Gee, just dawned on me she will be the first to finish college ... I mus plan something special. I can't wait to see the kids eyes when they see all the gifts and then open them. I have to remember not to let any smoke get in my eyes and give me blurry vision as they do. Would hate to miss it. Star is having fun and partying up a storm while she visits. She will be ready to go back to Atlanta just to rest.

I have thought of something to do as a special treat for my family and I must get to work at it now. Maybe I can have it ready by New Years. What I wish for the New Years will remain unspoken as I see if I can mentally will it to happen.

Jingle Jingle Jingle

I am glad the weekend is over so I can let my body recover. I spent most of the afternoon and evening putting bunk beds together. The worse part was the stupid tool they give you t use. My thumb and hand were sore after screwing this monster screws into the wood. Then on Sunday, there was no rest as Bowling took precedence. The kids did it going from wire to wire in First Place. The only downside was they were tied on the last week forcing a one game roll-off. But true to form they stepped up and won the game when it counted the most. Next week I get to take Lew to bowl as we party and receive the trophies. That should provide a clear picture of next January when he will bowl the whole season. The adult team continues to battle and hang on to 3rd place.

Star showed up on Friday for a visit. It was a good surprise though Lady's surprise was negated by a little birdie telling her in advance. Oh well. It is good to see her and we look forward to more time spent together this Holiday Season. Welcome Home ... Star. Wild Mom is busy getting ready and packing for her Caribbean trek less than 4 weeks away. The rest of her time is spent going to doctors appointments and pet appointments. Then she adds a few Craft classes in and all her time is gone.

Lady has been in a baking, Christmas tree decorating, Present buying and wrapping mode for a while now. Of course the waist line shows the "baking" effect." The snicker-doodles and rice krispies bars were over the top. #1 is still working and trying to get back to his old bowling form. His youth team finished 4th. Perhaps his proximity to the "30" plateau has something to do with slowing him down. #2 continues to vegetate in the job market ... maybe we should turn him into a vegetarian for a while till he is successful in locating some work. Peanut is getting ever closer to finishing her classes as today she turned in her business plan. Hmmm, wonder what kind of boss she will be ... hey, she could hire #2!!! In her free time Peanut is in the baking mode or is it her "Susy Homemaker mode?" Hmmm.

The kids were like jumping beans Saturday night with the new bunk beds. It seems they though the beds were more jungle gym than bed.It was fun watching them use my tools to help with the screws and boards. The intensity and grunts as they exerted themselves was priceless ... even NANA managed to get pictures. Only AJ is fighting the sniffles right now and he will see the doctor today and get some meds. Princess works like the seven dwarfs. Not much more to report.

Ponderings #3

1. Why is it we do the same thing someone else does but we rationalize our actions as acceptable and condemn their actions as inappropriate? Are we that much better? Or do the rules we are supposed to play by only apply to "everyone" else? Perhaps that is why so many people have trouble with Christianity ... there is a double standard that has been set, not by God, but by everyone that claims the label of Christian. I guess after having this as a topic and then observing it first hand, my mind began to churned with the question, "why?" There is no doubt this is wrong and not the accepted norm as described by Jesus Christ. We are to look past the problems or issues and show compassion just as Paul showed the Thessalonians. But we don't ... we cry foul ... all the time forgetting we are standing out of bounds. Just because we bent a knee and prayed a prayer does not give us any right to assume an air of authority and make decisions until Christ returns. We need to lose the "ME" and replace it with "WE". Compassion should be our mantra not condemnation for violations according to our standard of beliefs. Why did Jesus place such an emphasis on Love? Because that is the essence of being like him. Loving each other even when we are mad, upset, disappointed, punished or scorned by another person. Love isn't something just for a fair or good day, that is the easy way, but it most productive when we show it on the darkest and most difficult of days. Do we need to start over and wrinkle or dress or pants as we kneel and ask forgiveness and strength to start all over? Yes.

2. Another thought process I am chewing on concerns -- Trivial words. How many times a day do we ask forgiveness for messing up or doing something we shouldn't? For most of us, it is many times. Now consider this, how many years has this been going on? Have we trivialized the words "Jesus forgive me ... I won't do it again?" Once again the answer is yes. Kind of like a child saying "I am sorry." They learn the phrase gets them out of trouble but as soon as the memory fades they are right back at it. As adults we are quick to say "I love you." But is it real when you say it or a phrase that ends all conversations or events? Have you ever hurt someone and ended your apology with I love you only to hurt them again in a short time? We have because like sorry it is a automatic response that we know gets results or helps us bypass pain. So then since we trivialize the phrase Love no wonder we trivialize Jesus. He is love and what he did for us was out of love. Let us find compassion and change in our life. Forget the little hurts and pains of others and show unrestrained compassion. Then we might reach a point where asking Jesus for forgiveness will really be a life changing event. If I remember right, accepting his love and salvation made us a new person.

December Begins, I am just Late!

Well, I have forgot to write sooner and the week is almost half gone. Where did all the fun times go? Saturday was our first snowfall and it was really nice ... now we need 24 more inches from the next one coming tonight! Today has been a slow one for me as my stomach has decided to take up gymnastics and the first class is somersaults. Hopefully this will pass and I can get back to full speed. Bowling went well last weekend. Next week (12-13-09) is the last week for the kids. They are in first place with a 7 point lead. The adult team has slipped a bit from second to third even though we did have a good week. Work remains the same with a lot of people out burning off their vacation time prior to the end of the year. Less than four (4) weeks to the warm Western Caribbean weather!

Wild Mom is about ready for the Holiday's and wishing for more visitors. Her craft room is about done. She has managed not to sent the new alarm system off ... so far. Lady is busy. While it was snowing Saturday morning, the Christmas music was turned on and the first attempt at putting the Tree up was tried. Needless to say the lights didn't play along and we will have to try again. She has secured most of the grand kids gifts and stashed them away from prying eyes ... especially #2's. #1 is getting about with only minor twinges with his back. He even bowled but for the most part could only claim the " I Participated Award." #2 has no change to anything in his life. Except maybe, he has found a few of those cheating games that #1 says exists. Peanut is getting her business going and even managed to schedule a few practice sessions as she learns the little tricks of the trade. What could be better than 3 little kids at Christmas time? The are amazing to watch as the talk and do those things that make you laugh and cry. Lady wrapped a gift for Lil Princess and AJ unwrapped it immediately after it was place by the Tree. He was quick. Lil Princess tried several time to get me to do something by blinking her eyes and putting on a pouty face. It didn't work! At least not initially. Star is back in Georgia and settling down to her new place and the Holiday Season. She hopes to drop by during Christmas if all goes well.Trucker Justin (TJ) and Blue are burning up the road as they crisscross the United States delivering stuff for Prime. TJ is almost to the point of completing his training and getting his own big rig. Now does that scare you? My prayers are with Blue as he deals with some family issues. But then again, don't we all have some?

Ponderings #2

Stress is the trash of modern life - we all generate it but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.

There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.

It takes 8,460 bolts to assemble an automobile, and one nut to scatter it all over the road. If you must drink and drive, drink Pepsi.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”

"Will someone else's life be brighter tomorrow because of what you have done today?"

The process of discovering who I really am, begins with knowing who I really don't want to be.

Just when you think you're at the end of your rope and you just can't hold on any longer, you find out that there's actually a net about an inch underneath you and was there all along ... if you just let go.

Life can only be understood looking backward, but must be lived looking forward.

"Failure doesn't have to be a set back, but a stepping-stone to a brighter future."

There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.

“Happiness is not the absence of problems but the ability to deal with them.”

Pondering #1

Light travels faster than sound. That's why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Life isn't like a box of chocolates. It's more like a jar of jalapenos. What you do today, might burn your butt tomorrow.

When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

Ho - Ho - Ho

Well, another week comes to an end and they are even predicting snow on Saturday. How much better can that get! Saturday also marks 4 weeks till we head for the warm waters (80+ degrees) of the Western Caribbean. Work remains the same and after awhile you just reach a point of toleration. DCRTV (Sources: 105.1 Up For Sale? - 12/3) started a rumor we (WAVA) was up for sale. I guess when they run out of news they just make it up. Youth bowling is nearing the end ... 2 weeks to go. The kids are still in first place but we will have to work at it . The adult team is also hanging in their despite last weeks results. All games were very close and hotly contested. Tomorrow night is "Dinner and Movie night" at the Church. So we will be there to have an Italian dinner and watch the movie "Fireproof". Hmmm ... does that mean no Mexican food for lunch?

Wild Mom is fine. She is packing and planning for next month. This is one of her favorite times because of all the crafts opportunities. She will have to pay the house cleaner extra because of all the residue. Lady continues to do what she always does ... everything. She is even dabbling on facebook some now. Before you know it, she will have more friends than I will. #1 still works and then fights with the cheating x-box. It is amazing how many games they make with that darn cheating module hard wired inside. #2 ... well let's say ... no change. Peanut studies hard and is doing well. Now she is planning to do some massage therapy on the side for practice. This should create a lot of smiling faces. AJ is getting over a cold and thrills us by the minute. Watching him Christmas day will be a blast. Princess works. Star is back in Georgia from gallivanting off to Tennessee. She had a blast but like all things ... eventually you must return home.

Thursday night Bible study completed the second week of 10 last night. It is a very good study and is generating quite a bit of discussion. That makes it easy to lead when everyone can't wait to get their $.02 worth into the conversation.

Lots of things going on or upcoming ... but more about them later.

Time to dream .... If you could have one dream come true this Christmas, what would it be?




http://www.dcrtv.com/
Sources: 105.1 Up For Sale? - 12/3

Pork-out Aftermath

This Thanksgiving Holiday was a very good one. We stayed home and celebrated with family. The meal stuffed us not to mention the effect of the chips and dip prior to the meal. We missed two of the grandkids but oh well, that is life. Star was gallivanting about Tennessee while Wild Mom celebrated with Gung-Ho Jen. We have been getting real good use of our friends hot tub ... nothing like sitting outside in the tub in 40 degrees while the steam rises from the water. Everyone of us enjoy the relaxing quiet time. I am very thankful of friends that are a joy to be with. It seems as the economy takes it toll we spend more and more time together having a great time. I can't imagine going through this time alone with no very close friends. Well, except if it was with family. Bowling still continues to wind down. The Youth team is still in first with 2 weeks to go. Can we go wire to wire in first place? The Adult team continues to hang in the second spot. We seem to lose on the same night as the others around us, thus keeping us in 2nd.

#1 is back working after his back issues. How long it will last is any one's guess. #2 continues to avoid the jobs but he is in serious jeopardy of getting his butt kicked out. The meter is running and will appear to run out on Thursday. Time will tell. Peanut is getting smarter and smarter though lately she has been fighting the crud. She also involved in developing her business plan for when she graduates in the late spring of 2010. AJ grows and grows. He is carrying on conversations with you now, even though you don't know exactly what he is saying ... just nod and smile. Lil Princess is also going through that phase so at times you get a double barrel load of kidspeak. Lew is growing and becoming quite good at logic games. In January, he will start his first bowling league. That will prove to be quite interesting. Hopefully he will listen more than #1 did. It took a while for #1 to realize that Dad did know a little bit about the subject. Princess continues to work most the time with an occasional text message. I am horrible at text messaging and fumbling with the microscopic keyboard so not much is said. So I must assume she is well and happy. Star spent the holidays in Tennessee with my nephew and his family. Now we need to get her home from her long vacation this fall and put her to work. She needs some dental work and as we all know ... it costs money.

The cruise grows closer. For those with inquiring minds ... 6-20 January 2010.

Can you believe the New Orleans Saints are 11-0. Who would have thunk that? Needless to say the Redskins are nowhere bound for the Holidays. Old, tired, and retirement-eligible teams usually go nowhere.