Old Comments on the events of my life

Working on my BETA

2004-03-29T14:48:00.000-08:00

Hello to all,

I've decided to concentrate on my BETA Journal for a while. I can write more words and include more graphics there. I won't be putting any entries up here for now.

I would appreciate it if you all would bookmark my BETA and come by there to read my rants and raves.

Just click on this hyper-link:

Comments on the events of my life

Thanks

The Meaning of Life, Huh?

2004-03-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

I got a survey from Onestrangecat at SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT, the other day. I finally sat and answered the questions and then posted it on my BETA Journal. It was fun to sit and think of my answers and to read hers. I guess it is a way for us to cultivate a more personal relationship with those we have come to know is our Journaling Community. Go over to my BETA Journal and "give it a shot." You know, Just for the fun of it.

Relaxing

2004-03-27T18:46:00.000-08:00

I've spent most of today in my recliner with my leg in the air. It is the only way I can keep the paion out of my knee. I'll be glad when Tuesday gets here and I can find out what we are going to do about this problem.

We watched a DVD today call 44 Minutes. It is a portrayal of an actual incident. This incident was the highly outgunned LAPD up against a pair of drugged out bank robbers who were weapons experts. They used high powered assault weapons and wore body armour. If you enjoy real excitement consider this the next time you rent a video. I can tell you from experience that it is "the way of the world today"

Hey, check my Beta Journal to read a story about my friend Candace. She is a really great kid.

BETA Comments on the events of my life

The Rose of the day

2004-03-26T11:23:00.000-08:00

BETA Comments on the events of my life

MRI's and X-Rays

2004-03-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

Take a look over at my BETA Journal. I've put up a recent x-ray of Mr. Spirit's leg that shows the plate, screws, and wire that now hold his knee together. It is interesting.

My MRI is at 12:30 PM PST. I sure hope they don't find what I expect they will. I really don't want knee surgery right now. Well, I really don't want any surgery now or ever. I am a real chicken when it comes to pain. I guess we will see what we will see.

BETA Comments on the events of my life

Beta Attempt

2004-03-25T17:57:00.000-08:00

Please take a look at my Beta Journal. Let me know if you like the style. Alos, give me any suggestions you would like.

BETA Comments on the events of my life

Deep Knee bends

2004-03-24T14:31:00.000-08:00

This morning I had an appointment with the Orthopedist. My knee is not doing much better so he decided to take a few x-rays. From what I see and from what he says, there is no arthritis in my knee area and no bone damage. There is soft tissue swelling so, he now suspects that I have torn the cartilage between the bones of the knee. That can only be determined with an MRI. I have an appointment on Friday afternoon for an MRI. It is difficult to put pressure on this leg so I havent been walking much. What little I do starts it throbbing and then I have to take a Darvocet and a couple Aleve to get it to calm down. Well, I guess time will tell the real story.

Our weather is cooling down some. It will only be in the 70s during the day for the next five or so days. I think the plants will enjoy it. I, on the other hand would like it to be in the mid 90s so, the pool heats up to a decent temperature. Right now it is still a little cool for floating around. I was in yesterday afternoon but, only up to my knees. I never got off the steps. I chickened out because of the cold. The pool was at 82 degrees. Strange, I grew up going in the Atlantic Ocean where the water temperature on a good day in the summer was only 65 degrees. What a wimp I have become. If the water in my pool isnt at least 88 I wont go in.

Ill be glad when all this stupid stuff gets taken care of. I want to put the big, black, jumping, dog on the wall outside so I can look at it. I paid this artist guy good money for it and now it is just sitting on the picnic table. I guess Ill try and get to it next week. Ill take a few pictures and post them for all to see. It will be my memorial to my K-9 partner Bear.

A Normal Day

2004-03-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

Libby has gone off to Nordstrom's to spend three $20.00 gift certificates they sent her for her "Customer Loyalty". Hah!, all that means is that they appreciate all the money she spends there.

The dogs and I are just lazing around right now but, will venture out later to weed some of the foreign growth around the roses. I am hoping that the pool temperature will be up to about 88 by this afternoon so I can go for a swim. Once I get the pool warm enough I will start taking Mr. Spirit in for some physical therapy. The Vets think it will be good for him. The Pool Man on the other hand is already wringing his hands and moaning that the dog fur and body oils will destroy the chemical balance of the pool water. Oh well, keeping the water clean and clear is what I pay him for. Since I usually vacuum the pool each morning and always clean the skimmer and filter basket he's had a smooth ride for the last six years. It's his turn to earn the money he gets each month.

I have finally given in and started a BETA Journal. I'll let you know when I get it to the point that it is viewable by others. Right now it looks a lot like my desk. Which is so clogged with trash, junk, and dog fur that I can't find anything except the key board which sits on top of all this stuff. Just remember, a clean desk shows a mind that is doing nothing. A cluttered desk shows a mind that is active. Boy, is my mind active!

Brain Dead, Lobsters, and "Farming Out" the Dogs

2004-03-22T13:56:00.000-08:00

I have been trying all morning to think of something to write about and havent had any luck. I do get these dry spells. My brain just quits working.

Libby took Mom to a doctor appointment and then grocery shopping. The dogs and I have lazed around while they are gone. We did venture out to get the mail from the box. It was nothing but junk. I am so sick and tired of advertisements in my mail, stuffed in my newspaper, across my fax machine, by telephone, and in my email box. Ill bet I throw 50 lbs. of that kind of crap in the trash each week and that doesnt include the Sunday paper ads which weigh that much alone. In my next life Im coming back as a marketing executive. They must make millions doing nothing but pissing people off.

We are going to have lobster Friday. To get one here is very expensive. I ordered two lobsters with clams in a big pot. The company sells fresh live Maine lobster dinners that are shipped over night. Yeah, I spent a few dollars for this but, Libby and I dont get to do this stuff much and the tax refund just showed up so, well splurge for a change. Now I have to get rid of the dogs for the evening. They will want to mooch this dinner like they do every night and Im not giving them my rich people lobsters. Plus, this could wind up a nice romantic evening with lobsters, wine, and soft music. I certainly dont need an audience for that. Now do I?

Good Morning Sunshine!!

2004-03-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

Springtime in the Valley

2004-03-20T16:22:00.000-08:00

This evening I will try to get the tomato and pepper plants in the ground by the dark of the moon. The banana peppers are about 3 long on the plants and the tomatoes have a lot of blooms. My strawberries have many blooms and small berries and the pea pods get bigger each day. I hope I get everything to grow for us before the real nasty weather gets here. The hot sun and low humidity just frie the plants even when I water 3 times a day.

Libby and I started to get the old dishwasher out from under the cabinets today. We are expecting the new one from sears Monday or Tuesday. Im going to pay to have them install it. I just dont feel like crawling around on the floor and under the counters. My knee still hurts.

It is 90 today and the A/C has come on for real now. Our pollen count is through the roof so we are spending a lot of time inside. Maybe this evening we will take a ride and see how things in the valley are doing. I expect to go in the pool tomorrow. In 1997 we were in for the first time of the season on March 24th. I guess this year will be a little earlier. I sent pictures of Libby lazing by the pool with the flamingos a couple years ago. The photos didnt set well with the East coast folks. I wouldnt dream of doing that this year.

"B" Ball

2004-03-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

theLocals stay away except to work. I guess you have to give up to get.

2004-03-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

I've had emails from friends in NJ. They are complaining about the cold and snow. My cousin Carol was getting ready to turn over her garden tomorrow. Spring starts tomorrow but, I guess they will have to wait for the ground to thaw. The desert has passed the nice stage and is now in the pollen stage. Everything is yellow with pollen. Mulberry seems to be the biggest culprit. I have the A/C on to filter the air, not to cool the house. We have temps. in the mid to high 80s with low humidity. It is gorgeous out. You cant stay out because you sneeze constantly. The pool is up to 82 degrees. It would be great to go swimming if it wasnt for the layer of pollen on the surface. The sight is not real conducive to an enjoyable swim.

We had a can of Green Giant Cut Green Beans last night with our dinner. I found a long tube like object in my serving. It is hard and feels like plastic. I suspect though, that it is a piece of a stem. This morning I wrote Green Giant an email with a description of the item and the can ID numbers. Lets see if I get any response.

Corned Beef Criminals, and Allergies

2004-03-18T08:44:00.000-08:00

Today the cleaning lady comes. This means that Bruno and I are banned from the house for about 41/2 hrs. Bruno doesnt like the Cleaning Lady and she doesn't like him plus, I have a doctor appointment this morning.

My home corned, corned beef didn't kill us. I was concerned because it didnt have the red color most corned beef Ive seen has. I watched a show on PBS last night about the Irish immigration to the USA and they showed a family eating a corned beef dinner that looked looked just like mine.

We managed to catch another fugitive here. It seems everyone who runs away or escaped from some other state after a crime winds up here. I guess they all think they will hit it big and be able to get to Mexico and escape their fate. This Ohio Sniper guy even checked in to a cheapo motel using own name and credit card. If he didnt want to be captured I would think he would have paid cash and used an alias. I have learned over the years that the average criminal is really not to swift.

We are working our way to temperatures in the 90s for the weekend. If that is true Ill be in the pool Sunday. The trees are full of blossoms and new leaf growth. We are at 11.8 out of 12.0 on the allergy scale. I feel like I have the flu if Im not in an air conditioned house. Thankfully it only lasts a few weeks. For now we are dealing with Ash, Cedar, Mulberry, and pine. Next come the olive trees and then everything else. The medication companies will make millions this time of year.

Non Irish discussions for the Non Irish

2004-03-17T11:38:00.000-08:00

Im not Irish. I dont want to be Irish. I have enough trouble getting by with no nationality affiliation other than American. I really dont want the burden of living up to the stereo types of more than one nationality.

Today here in Las Vegas Fitzgeralds Casino will give away tons of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. They will also serve hundreds of gallons of green beer. All this will be for FREE. You will not be able to move in their establishment. The Irish men and women of Las Vegas will pack in for the freebies. By the way, these Irishmen and women come in all sizes, shapes, and colors. I have never in my life seen so richly diverse a group as these Irish folks.

So, the traditional corned beef and cabbage is on the stove, Libby and Mom are wearin the green, and I am drinkin the beer. It should be a fine lunch. Oh, by the way, if you dont see an entry here tomorrow Ive probably killed us all off with my home corned beef. Just how many REAL Irishmen can say they made their own corned beef and managed to exterminate their entire family all at one meal?

Knees, TVs, and Buggy Guys

2004-03-16T10:38:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday in my big La-Z-Boy recliner with my legs up. I managed to hurt my left knee the other day. The Dr says I have an infection in a fluid sack in the side of my knee and that it is caused by some form of irritation. The only thing about me that is usually irritated is my outlook on life.

Late in the aafternoon I dressed and we went to the KVBC-TV station. We were invited to come see the newly remodeled facilities, have a bite to eat, and participate in a viewer survey. It was a nice experience. Libby got to meet some on the on air personalities that we see each day on the afternoon and evening news shows. She even had her picture taken with the News Anchors. They asked our opinion on everything from the color used on the set to how the Reporters projected themselves on TV. It was interesting and fun. Unfortunately, my leg hurt bad enough that I skipped most of the tour and just sat in the conference room and waited for Libby and the other six people to come back.

Mr. Bruno broke his leather lead as Libby took him out of the truck yesterday and went after the Orkin man. I dont think he was actually trying

Horse Sense

2004-03-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

Dakotarose mentioned the Meadowlands Race Track in her Journal recently. Libby and I made many visits to The Track.

We would head out early so we got a good spot in the Rhode Island sized parking lot. We usually reserved a window table directly over the start/finish line where we could see then entire track in air conditioned comfort with lots a food and drink.

I spent days analyzing the scratch sheets using past race statistics, jockey weight, weather conditions, and specific horse physical characteristics to make picks. Libby picked horses by he color of their silks or their names.

My Wife made bets at $2.00 to Show while I bet across the board. Once I was sure I had the big winner for the entire day. I put $100.00 across at 15 to 1. Libby liked the long shot because he was named Battleship Billy. I had convinced Libby to splurge and put a whopping $2.00 across the board on her name horse. She won a little over $300.00 on her $6.00 bet. My horse finished out of the money.

My Wife bought dinner, paid the tolls home, and even gave me a few bucks for gas. She has never let me forget that day and I still feel like a horses butt over it. But, I tried her method and lost doing that too. Horses dont like me.

Golden Moments

2004-03-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

John G. notified the winners of the February Excellence Awards this morning. I am very proud to be a Judge and to have taken part in the selection of these awards. Each of you should be proud that your peers feel you have an exceptional Journal. Keep up the good work and always try to help other Journalers excell.

Use the link below to see the names of all the February 2004 awardees.

FEBRUARY 2004 JOURNAL AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

I'm not bending!!!

2004-03-12T13:30:00.000-08:00

I refuse to give panhandles anything, EVER! I dont like dealing with them and I really dont care that you all think Im a miserable person for these views.

My Wife was harassed by another one today. They wont take NO for an answer and swell all up to scare people. These societal leaches go out of their way to intimidate people. That is what is legally known as STRONGARM ROBBERY.

As a young child I did chores at home for an allowance. As I got older I delivered newspapers, cut laws, shoveled snow, and did just about anything to make a little money. The day I turned 13 I had my legal State working papers signed. I washed dishes in a cafe, pumped gas, and cleared underbrush to make a few bucks. In high school I worked in a gas station, stocked shelves at a 5 & 10, and even worked on an assembly line. When Libby and I were first married I worked three jobs to keep us floating.

If all you Ultra Liberal Do Gooders out there would quit feeding, housing, and proving unearned income to these bottom feeders we wouldnt have the problems we have with them today. Why should I foot the bill through my taxes and/or handouts so these sub-humans can live without contributing to their own welfare?

Today, I reached the end of my very long rope. NO ONE hassles my Wife and gets away with it. I hope these jerks like jail.

A Graphically Sound Idea

2004-03-11T16:43:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite Journalers, Kathy, aka: Onestrangecat and manickathy has started a group here in AOL. Take a look at here group and maybe join. It is called AOL Journalist Graphics. This group will have alot of graphics available for us all to use in our Journals if we all join and contribute a few of our graphics. Kathy will also help anyone who needs it to upload, download, and figure out the HTML codes.

Take a look. I think you will be glad you did.

Medical Para-Mutual or Who's on first?

2004-03-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

Today is not a good day. I have been playing Musical Doctors all day and now have to make another appointment.

Ive had a large lump on the inside of my thigh for a while now. It has started to bother me. So, I went to my Internist to find out what was going on. She sent me to a General Surgeon who in turn sent me to an Orthopedic Surgeon. Now the Orthopedic Surgeon wants me to see an Oncologist who, he expects will send me to an Oncological Surgeon. This is driving me nuts! All Im interested in is to have someone give me a local anesthetic and gouge this thing out of my leg. It appears I have stirred up a financial windfall for the Medical Profession and a bee hive for myself. BAH ! !

I have pea pods growing nicely on my two bushes. The tomatoes I bout the other day look great and the three banana peppers have about a dozen small peppers and a lot of blossoms. Maybe this will be a good garden year. I will plant the tomatoes in the ground on Friday or Saturday evening during the dark of the moon. This is supposed to help nightshade family plants grow strong and healthy.

Well see if Murphys Law is going to extend to my gardening this year.

Brine and Tomatoes

2004-03-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

So, I found a couple recipes and got together all the spices necessary. Last night we made the brine and stuck a real nice piece of beef in it. I have a vacuum sealing machine so; I think the curing process will be quicker since I put the brine and beef in a plastic bag that I sealed in a vacuum. Ill let you all know in a few days if my idea worked.

It's a woman thing

2004-03-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

This morning Libby forced the dogs and I to the opening of a sale at a place called Tuesday Morning. This place stays closed for a couple months then opens on a Tuesday morning (8:00am) with a big sale. They then open each day until the store stock is gone. Then they start the process again.

I have never been to the start of a sale before. We got there a ½ hour early and there was already a line. Some of these women thought it was OK to try and cut in front because they were only getting one thing. These Ladies should get a brain and then go to courtesy school.

Inside was even worse. People were running all over. They were using shopping carts as plows. I have never seen such a display of pure disrespect since I worked the riots of the 70s. I actually watched women fighting over who was going to get the last item on a shelf.

I think the real thing that was just outrageous was how they got two carts in an isle one going each direction and then stopped right next to each other to slowly look at every item on the shelves or have a conversation. This is all while people behind them stood and waited or were actually dumb enough to try and get around these other fools.

I guess I made them all crazy as I slowly moved my cart down each isle looking for what I wanted from the sale paper. Libby went and got the two items she really wanted and then we got in line to check out. These people even tried to cut in line there. This must be a Woman Thing. It is definitely not the kind of sport that men would ever want to participate in.

Blood, Sweat, and Tears

2004-03-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

My first chore today was to go to Transylvania for blood work. If you are a Nurse or a Vampire you will know what I mean when I say I am a real hard stick. My veins run and hide before I even get in the door to the Lab. It is not a very comforting sight to see a grown man cry like a three year old.

A few months ago a Supervising Vampire tried a technique to see if she could get blood out of a rock. She used what is called a Butterfly on me and stuck it in the vein at the front of my bicep. Wow!!, no pain and lots a blood. I was impressed. The only problem I have been having is with the minion Vamps. They dont want to use this technique for some reason. So, I wind up getting evil and the baby Vamps get all indignant and their feelings get hurt. Finally, the Chief has given me a business card with instructions of the back for using this butterfly technique on me. This morning went well, No more tears!

Before we went grocery shopping we stopped at IHOP for breakfast. I guess every NASCAR race fan was there for breakfast before driving home. It was real warm and clear here yesterday. The track temperature was 110 115. All these folks had horrendous sunburns. The people looked like they were just plucked from a lobster cooker. That is one of the

Vegetation Day

2004-03-07T11:03:00.000-08:00

I am presently reading a new book. It is by an Author I follow closely. His name is W.E.B. Griffen. He writes fiction books based on fact in the areas of military operations and police operations. I am well aquainted with many of his subjects and have even know some of the fellows that his fictional characters portray. So, I started the book yesterday and will not rest until I either fall asleep or finish the book. I never read slowely. If I read it is all or nothing, beginning to end.

I will also watch the NASCAR race on TV. It starts at 11:30 with the prerace show so, that will take up most of the afternoon while I read and watch TV.

I had originally planned to go and do some grocery shopping and then work in the garden. Oh well, "The best layed plans......ect."

If you haven't figured it out before now I will confess that since I retired I don't do anything on a schedule or as planned. So many years of being on time and doing things "By the book" have made me a stalwart rebel when it comes to time and schedules now. I should be ashamed of myself but, I'm not.

BTW, Mr. Spirit had x-rays of his leg yesterday and the Vet couldn't find

THE RACE IS ON !!!

2004-03-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

This is NASCAR weekend in Las Vegas. The race will generate $85 million into our economy. There isnt a room to be had or a seat to be bought in town. This weekend is actually up on a par with the National Finals Rodeo which is our biggest weekend. Believe me you cant drive, walk, or sit unless you are shoulder to shoulder with someone else. Traffic anywhere near the race track has been at a standstill since Thursday.

Many of the drivers do charitable personal appearances while they are here. Driving the race is bad enough but, putting up with the fans must be torture. Some drivers wont even speak to a fan.

I expected that this guy was one of the good guys. Libby confirmed it last

GENTLEMEN START YOUR ENGINES!!!

Talking about a friend

2004-03-05T09:37:00.000-08:00

Our local TV channel (KVBC News 3) has a great Weatherman named John Fredericks. He is a very vocal pet advocate. One of his projects is Brunos picture to John the last week of February for his 4th birthday. John did a nice piece on our Boy.

Yesterday Mr. Fredericks forwarded an email to me that he had received from someone who had seen Brunos birthday greeting. What a surprise it SPCA for 5 months and was becoming very cage crazy. They were afraid that his aggression would lead to him biting someone and that would then mean he would be euthanised. Her email was so complimentary and flattering. Libby and I felt really good after reading it.

I wrote her back and invited her to come by and visit her old friend. If the meeting comes about Ill post a couple picture.

Drought - Lake Mead, Clark County, Nevada

2004-03-03T23:41:00.000-08:00

Picture #1,2,&4 are taken from the present water line up to the water line before the drought. Note the white line on the hills. The top of that white line in all the pictures is where the water use to be.

Picture#3 is taken from the old water line down to the present water level. Note the islands, they would normally be under water.

Picture #5 is from the boat ramp present water line to the previous water line.

Picture#6 shows the intake towers for Hoover Dam. The water should be just below the catwalks to the towers.

Picture #7 shows the spillway into the water bypass tunnel at the dam. Water should be well above the spillway and running into the tunnel all the time.

Pictures #8 & 9 are taken from the top of the dam out into the lake canyonway.

Remember that the top of the white line that indicates the old water level is 100 to 120 feet above the present water level.

Wandering around

2004-03-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

We are headed out to Lake Mead this morning to take a few pictures to send a friend in NJ. I will also get a chance to "play with" the GPS system I bought for the laptop. We'll see if it really works.

I'll post some pictures of the lake later.

Yard Art

2004-03-02T08:13:00.000-08:00

It has rained all night here in the desert. I am really happy about this as it will allow me to turn off the sprinkle system for a few days and save some of the money I spend on trying to keep my grass alive.

Back in October I commissioned a Metal Artist named Calvin Adair in Oklahoma to design a metal wall hanging for me. What I wanted was a running/jumping German Shepherd Dog, made of metal that I could hang on the back wall of my yard. It was to be a memorial to my K-9 Partner, Bear. When finished this black metal silhouette would be placed on the wall where I could look out the patio doors and see it.

UPS brought it yesterday. It is beautiful. The Shepherd is about 6 foot from tip of his front paws to the tip of his back paws. He is leaping through the

I am really happy. As soon as the weather breaks I will drill the holes in the wall and get this guy mounted. I plan to have a small memorial plaque engraved with Bears vital statistics on it and bolt it next to the silhouette. I will take some pictures when it is up for you all to see.

Finishing what I started

2004-03-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

Here are the last few of my favorite Journals.

OK, that's it for now. Maybe I'll update it again soon. These are all great sites.

For those of you who have been following Mr. Spirit's progress, there was bad news yesterday. He has somehow managed to break off one of the screw heads holding the plate to his tibia bone. That leaves five screws holding the plate on and one with the head missing. We will discuss with the Vets what they think we should do and take the steps necessary. I'll keep you posted.

Reading my way through life Part II

2004-02-29T12:09:00.000-08:00

Since I am being seriously lazy this weekend, here is Part II of my Bet Journals. Please take the time to visit these folks. I think you will enjoy the experience.

Ayn's Multiple World

LIFE OR SOMETHING LIKE IT

Lori's Laurels

REFLECTIONS OF A PRISON WIFE

CompuTips

There will be more!!

Reading my way through life Part I

2004-02-28T11:24:00.000-08:00

Today I thought I would showcase a couple of my favorite Journals. They provide knowledge through their entries. They incorporate wonderful graphics that make for a bright happy Journal. Occasionally a couple of them provide some home made poetry or pictures of events in their lives. I enjoy many of the philosophical questions and statements that are sometimes sprinkled throughout. Finally, with all the educational and thought provoking material there is also a lot of just plain home spun entertainment. I thank you all for a look into your lives. This list is the first offerings of a group of Journals that I read daily. I will present more in future entries.

Happenings during the air I breathe...

The Making Of A Home

Walk with me...

Expressions By Wildflower

Doggie Door Comments

2004-02-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Thought I would let all you folks who commented and sent emails about the Doggie Door and wet dogs know what is actually up.

Yes, The Doggie Door came with a security panel that closes it off. The problem there is when you have two dogs that run "full bore" down the hall and out the door. If I close the door off I wind up with unconcious dogs on my TV room floor. They actually try to "hit it running" and expect to get out.

The last time I closed the door off Bruno hit it so hard he dented the aluminum door and his head. When Spirit hits it he just sits back on his butt and wimpers.

I guess I'll have to deal with the occassional shower and wet paw prints.

Problems in Journalland

2004-02-27T04:13:00.000-08:00

Apparently my head is up my butt again. I have recently received a couple emails about cliques, exclusions, and dirty tricks in Journalland. I have no idea what is going on but, I am truly sorry that it has come to the point that Journalers are taking sides and some feel compelled to Take time off to reassess themselves within the Community. I am shocked.

I really enjoy spending a few minutes each day writing in this Journal. I have a few other Journals that I go to each day and read their entries. I like what the have to say or what graphics they display. I also try to stop by a few new Journals each week but, I have never discriminated against a person or a Journal.

I was unaware that by joining a group of other Journalers in an association that would help me to improve my Journal and talk with those who enjoy this pastime is a sin to some folks. Well, You all need to Grow Up! I find this type of petty crap irritating. I for one will continue writing what I want in my Journal, visiting those Journals that I find enjoyable, and reading a couple new Journals each week. Those of you who think thats a problem dont have to come back and read my Journal any more. Find Journals that meet your specific criteria and leave me alone.

Wet Dogs and drippy Auctions

2004-02-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

Here we are with rain again today. My desert has turned in to a swamp. The Forecasters are saying we will have rain into tomorrow and then clearing over this weekend. I hope the next weekend is clear and dry for the NASCAR race here on March 6 & 7..

I have discovered that a “doggie door” although convenient for both dogs and humans can sometimes be a problem. The dogs can come and go as they please so, the door saves us humans the work of letting them in and out all day long and help prevent accidents inside. Well, when it rains these “Mutts” go out in the rain and then come back in to shake off. Even that’s OK unless it’s 2:30 AM and the errant “Mutt” stands next to you while you’re sleeping and shakes off. It can be quite a shocking “wake up call”.

The auction that I was telling you all about yesterday turned out to be a “bust”. The folks bidding at the Auction Gallery and those on line were crazy with their bidding. I don’t understand the prices these people were willing to pay for the stuff. I guess I’m out of touch with reality but, I don’t see a 300.00 bid on a little zip lock bag filled with broken watches or old “beat up” rings. I must be me. I have reached the point in my life where I don’t understand what people are paying for things. I remember my Dad moaning and groaning about the price of everything. Well, I guess I’ve turned in to my Dad because I sure understand what he was complaining about now.

A Normal Morning

2004-02-25T11:02:00.000-08:00

Libby and Mom are off to get their hair done so, Im playing at the computer. Right now Im watching a live auction of Washington State abandoned safe deposit boxes. Im waiting for them to get about 100 lots more done before I bid on an item I want.

Spirit is in his cage as he has decided that he will go out and in the doggie door with his collar on. He gets stuck each time he tries and then he yelps for help. Bruno goes in and out laughing at Spirit. Ive noticed that as Mr. Spirit starts feeling better he is nipping at Bruno. I suspect that Bruno is in for a beating when Spirit gets this collar off. I can almost hear him telling Bruno, Just wait, Im will kick your ass when this collar comes off. "

I have been trying to get tickets for us to see The Passion. It opened last night here. There are no tickets available for the next two weeks. Everything is sold out. Church groups are renting entire theaters for their members to view the movie. I guess we will have to wait for it to go to tape and dvd.

Comments and emails Ive received about the one or two hand hamburger eating is overwhelmingly for the two handed approach. I guess I am not as abnormal as I thought. One guy wrote me and said he only uses one hand to hold his burger so he can use the other one to hold on to his girl. That comment makes me think this guy is about 12 years old so, he doesnt count in the survey anyway. Most everyone else said they use two hands and a napkin as a bib. Hah, you can usually tell what Ive been eating by the stains on my shirt. I sometimes think my shirts would make good soup base.

TV Commercial for Carl's Junior 'Burgers

2004-02-24T06:03:00.000-08:00

The rain finally stopped at about 4:00 pm yesterday but, the loonies here in town continued to beat each others cars up for the rest of the evening. According to the 11 PM News we had over 600 accidents during the 36 hour period of the rain. Jerks!!

Today I pose a serious question, one that has far reaching consequences. I have just viewed a commercial for the Six Dollar Burger again. This one was about a beautiful woman who rides an electric bull while eating this burger. These folks always make the actors eat this huge burger with one hand.

More great desert life. (Today - Part II)

2004-02-23T10:01:00.000-08:00

The Cleaning Lady was a "No Show" she is still sick and the weather is so miserable that there was no reason to tell her we still wanted her here when she called. Now that means no help for Libby doing the cleaning except me. I keep telling her that I'm still recovering from my illness but, she just says, "So, What". I am not gettingmuch respecy here!!

I did go to the Deli and took Mom breakfast. I showed her how to use eBay. She wants to look at things for sale. I doubt she'll buy much. But it is an interesting place to "surf around".

It is still cold and rainy. This is a lot like an old nor'easter. I feel like I am in NJ. Well, except for the cactus and the rattlers. The wonderful folks here in the Valley are bouncing off each other like they were driving on ice. These lunies have no clue how to drive in wet weather. It is like they point the vehicle and then close their eyes. The big problem is that no one slows down. Hah, here's a really classic trick. Stop and look at the flooded roadway. Then creep into it and cross until you get up over your hubcaps in the current. When you get to this point stall your vehicle and climb on to the foor so the FD has to rescue you. The County spends big money every year trying to get these idiots not to try and cross flooded roads but, it doesn't work.

Water, Water, Everywhere

2004-02-23T05:23:00.000-08:00

I guess the Cleaning Lady will be here today as long as she doesn't drowned getting here. "Good Old Las Vegas", do everything to excess! Now, it won't stop raining. The creek behind my house is running fast and hight. I can hear it rushing by from the house. I sure hope it doesn't decide to come up high enough to erode the banks and take my wall down. I could wind up with the whole thing in my TV room.

Well, I guess since it's Cleaning Day I'll be a nice guy and go get B & E sandwiches for everyone including Mom. I'll go to the local Deli and get the sandwiches and a bunch of cranberry muffins. These are the best muffins I've ever tasted. They make them fresh every morning. So, breakfast tomorrow will be these guys.

Bruno and I will hide out at Mom's until Libby and Lori are done with the cleaning. I don't even want to be around for the kind of nagging I'd get if I stayed home.

Wet, Books, and Secret Information

2004-02-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

It is raining here in the desert today. It began with showers yesterday and then got heavier throughout the night. This morning we have had periods of heavy downpours. This water is all good for us although, it will not help Lake Mead regain what it has lost due to the draught over the last few years.

Ive spent the morning involved in a live eBay auction of books and manuscripts. It was the first time that I have done a live auction. It was fun and I was the successful bidder on a total of 6 books on specific subjects including one first edition. I really paid reasonable amounts too.

These surveys that have been going around the Journal Community are fun to do and more fun to read the comments of our Journaling Friends. I have had a few good laughs.

Rest for the weary

2004-02-21T09:07:00.000-08:00

Libby and I both seem to be better but, still have a very washed out feeling. I hope we are back to our usual complaining state by Monday when the Cleaning Lady is going to try again to make me work.

There was a Journal Keepers chat last night. John and I were the only ones to show up. I sure enjoyed our talk. He is an interesting guy. What is wrong with all you Members? Dont any of you want to talk to us? Im starting to become disappointed with the turn out when one of these is scheduled. Maybe we should meet at someones house every month. Good idea huh? Ha, Ha, next month were coming to YOUR house.

A Man's work is never done

2004-02-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

I took Mom to the grocery store this morning. I managed to spend 80 bucks on stuff for Libby and I and I didn't have but 4 items on my list. I guess I got a few extra things.

Libby is feeling better today. I made her some toast and jerry for breakfast and it hasn't come up or out yet.

Well, I can't put it off any longer. The Cleaning Lady will be here in the morning tomorrow. I have to spend today cleaning up for the Cleaning Lady. I will never understand why I am doing this. Last night I dish washed all the dishes and hand washed all the pots and pans. What a lousy job that is! I think we should be able to invent china that all you have to do is tear off the top layer and throw it away and you have a clean plate again. Libby wouldn't let me give all the dishes and pots to the dogs to lick. I figured all I'd have to do after they cleaned them was give the stuff a quick rinse and put them away. She said, "No". Oh, She can't take a joke when she's sick. She just gets mad.

So, My afternoon is clear. Take a water pill, make lunch, clean the house for the cleaner, made dinner, clean everything else up, and go to bed. Have I missed anything? Oh Yeah, breath!!!

I AM A CARRIER

2004-02-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

I cancelled the Cleaning Lady because I just don't feel like cleaning up the house for the Cleaning Lady. Yeah, I know that sounds really strange. Also, there are a lot of dishes in the kitchen that need washing. I will eventually have to do that I guess. For now, maybe if I don't eat anything that I need a plate, cup, or dish for, I can get by without "doing dishes". My only problem there is the dog stuff. That usually gets washed after every use. Bruno could care less whether his bowl is clean or not. He just eats everything and licks the bowl clean. So, it at least looks clean when I fill it. Spirit is like an "Old Woman" he won't even go near his bowl if it hasn't been washed in hot water and dried. Whimp! He only does that to torture me and make me wash dishes. BAH!! We all like "Mickey D's" so maybe we can just get stuff from there for the next couple days. That way all I have to do is throw away wrapping paper, styrofoam, and bags. Hah, That'll work. WOW, there's always chinese too!

Brought back to reality

2004-02-18T00:39:00.000-08:00

Well, here I am, finally out of the bed and that dark bedroom. I do feel better but, not great. I had/have THE FLU ! Man, did it hit me hard and quick.

I am deeply sorry to Hunybea4him (Mary) that I missed our lunch while she was here in Las Vegas. Believe me, Libby and I were on the way and I had to turn back. I have a picture that Libby took of you that I will send you and post soon. Thank you so much for the wonderful bottle of wine. I hope we will be able to meet sometime soon.

Thanks also to everyone who sent me Valentine greetings and Get Well cards including Penny, 'Berly, John, and Meredith who come to mind at the moment. I enjoyed receiving them all. I also thank all of you who commented on Libby's entries on my Journal as she updated you all on my "downfall'. She told me what each of you said.

I will get back to some real entries soon. Right now I will concentrate on the 100 or so emails that need to get answered. Hah, I had just about that many SPAMs too. I also have to do my journal judging for the February awards. That will take me a few days as I visit many new and old Journals.

Thanks, My Friends.

2004-02-16T20:09:00.000-08:00

Bill is still sick with the flu. He has a temperature and isn't keeping anything on his stomach except gatorade and hot tea. He is sleeping most of the time and hasn't looked at his email or journal.

I told him about all your "Get Well" comments and he says Thanks.

As soon as he feels better he will answer you all and update his journal.

Thank you all for your concern.

Libby

2004-02-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,

Bill is sick. It started Saturday morning. We will see the Dr on Monday but, for now he is staying in bed and sleeping most of the time. He has a high fever and can't keep anything on his stomach.

Hopefully he will be back to his journal soon and will be answering his emails soon.

If I can help please email me at LibbyBear@aol.com

Thank you,

Libby

(Bill's Wife)

Finding Love

2004-02-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

Oh heart, do not ache. Walk again with head held up.

Forget that past relationship and keep your spirit flying.

Sweet love. Sour parting. You will again emote.

Oh, open heart, happy heart, life goes on.

A time doth come to love a love that will endure.

Until that day, await. Your love doth come.

A whisper now and then a song.

Your duet for life will come along and sing.

Speak of hearts on fire and unions thrust

upon a meeting and a touch.

Keep back from demons of your fright and

warm your heart in pure love light.

Snoozing through life

2004-02-13T06:19:00.000-08:00

Ive been up since 4:50 am/pst. This has become normal for me over the years. The last few years I worked a lot of day tours. I got up at 4 am so I could get on the road by 4:45 am. I arrived at work about 5:20 am, giving me time to dress, have coffee, and find out what was going on before Roll Call at 5:45 am. So, I guess I am OK with mornings.

My problem lies in my inability to stay awake in the evening. I am really getting tired of missing TV shows because Ive fallen off for a nap just as

I usually get a quick 30 minutes in the afternoons. There is no reason for me to be this tired at night. Maybe Ill start staying up all night and sleeping during the day. That never worked when I did the midnight shift. I would get home at about 7 am and try to sleep. Everyone else in the world would be up and doing business. The light, the noise, and the telephone made it damn near impossible for a night worker to sleep during the day.

Libby and both dogs give me the Evil Eye each evening because I snore my way through their TV time. I really hate it that I keep missing this new Charlie Sheen show.

A Ringing in my ears

2004-02-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

I have now decided that this Do not call telemarketer list is not working very well. I am receiving fewer calls from people trying to sell me stuff on my regular telephone line but, I am now inundated with faxes. When I registered my phone lines I did all of them, home phone, cell phone, computer line, and fax line. So, in theory I shouldnt be getting any

I now have Caller ID and Call Block to try and keep these creeps away from me. They are as irritating as my computer SPAM. These Jerks should not be allowed to contact me in any way until I contact them first. I have a

Life Changes

2004-02-11T05:32:00.000-08:00

I have decided it is necessary that I go on a diet again soon. My eating is way out of control so, I will start a new diet soon. (ç Notice the operative word soon here). I havent quite decided what diet Ill use. My Doctor likes the low carb diets. So, maybe Ill try that again. My favorite is the Eat Everything diet. It provides a generous portion of all the items in all the food groups.

There is a new Nutrition Pyramid put out by the US Department of Health. It redistributes the daily allotments of foods on a more needed nutritional level. There is more I have contacted a local group called, Road Runner Saloons. They have offered to help me fulfill my desire to follow the new recommended dietary outline and help me reach my goal weight. I am one happy Billy now!!

Stupid People Tricks

2004-02-10T02:48:00.000-08:00

Here I am up a 1:15 am. Why? Because I am a real dope sometimes. You see, at about 9:30 PM I had a can of diet soda and some no sugar added ice cream. It was quite refreshing at the time but, I knew Id be having trouble later. As a diabetic I know that there are certain things (whether sugar free or not) that I cant have before bedtime. Ice cream in any form is one of those things.

So, here I sit with my nose stopped up, my head pounding, and my mouth and throat dried out. I have no one to blame but me. All this will last a couple hours and then Ill be able to sleep again. I just never learn.

Sometimes I wonder if I should be allowed to do anything more than sit with my hands folded on my lap without a Keeper riding herd on me.

Critical Acclaim

2004-02-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

SECONDHAND LIONS with Robert Duval, Michael Caine, and Haley Joel Osment is a great Family Flick that will keep you all wondering right up to the end. I sure enjoyed it. So, without recommending it I suggest you consider it when you get your next rental. Oh Yeah, I think the pig actually barks.

The article was printed in the Newspaper on Valentines Day. I think Libby got a kick out of the article and seeing her name in print. I will take her out but, not on the actual day. It is to loony in all the restaurants on Valentines Day so, we go out the day before or the day after. Hah! we usually celebrate on Valentines Day with hot dogs cooked on the grill at home. God, can you get any more romantic?

A romantic I am not.

Ramblings

2004-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning for breakfast we made ourselves some french toast and bacon. It has been a long time since we took the time to do something like this. We usually have cold cereal or a muffin. It was a real nice breakfast. We will have to do it again sometime.

Bruno is going great. He is now playing a lot with his toys and seems to be eating without pain. When he opens his mouth there are no front teeth between his canines (both uppers and lowers). It makes me think he is a little old man without false teeth. I guess he doesnt mind since he is now pain free.

Mr. Spirit is doing better. The collar had allowed the incision to scab over and he seems to be looking better. They poor guy is restless and stress out. I will be happy when we are to the point he can get this collar off and star exercising his leg. He just limps about now with it held off the ground.

Watched the NASCAR BudPole Shootout last night. Today starts qualifying for Daytona. So, I guess the season has begun. We no longer support Caterpillar as Ward Burton has moved to Nextel. I sure hope he has a better season this year. I guess NASCAR is becoming a big spectator sport. They seem to be getting some national coverage lately. Oh well, off to breakfast and chores.

Spring is in the air - but, it's frozen

2004-02-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Well, the Christmas tree (fake) is finally out of the living room. We just havent taken the time to go in and take it to the garage. There are way to many things going on around here to remember to move that tree. We spend some much time in the Family/TV room that we just forget about it until guests arrive. Oh well, Its done.

Today we will mix up the fertilizer for the rose bushes and put some round them. Im going to put a couple food spikes in the ground around the grapefruit trees also. The time has come for us to start cleaning up the yard from its annual winter destruction. In another month there will be blooms on a lot of the stuff. I already have a lot of little white blossoms on the pea plants. I doubt there will be enough peas for a meal but, it has been fun growing them. My 26 flamingos need to be stood up and repositioned and so does the great blue heron but, he needs some perch repair. The pool looks clean and inviting if the water temp wasnt 53. Im still filling dog holes in the garden but should have that finished and ready for planting soon. Boy, does the grass look bad when its dormant.

Mr. Spirit goes to the Vet again today to check the infection in his incision. Our unhappy camper is still living with the collar 24/7. I doubt he will ever talk to us again. He just lays around and pouts most of the time. Bruno on the other hand, is pretty frisky of late. I guess the infection and the soreness from pulling his teeth is eased up a lot. He seems ready to play all the time. He is pending a lot of time at the front fence woofing up everybody in the neighborhood. I guess hes letting them know that he is back in action and in charge again.

OK, no more fooling around, time for work. BAH !

No Entry Yesterday - Two entries today

2004-02-06T12:47:00.000-08:00

I have always tried to like the Doctors who have had the unfortunate opportunity to work on me. There have been a couple occasions where I just seriously disliked the MD and quickly found someone else. It has not happened often in my life but, recently reared its head for the second time since I moved to Nevada. Without going in to detail I will tell you that this MD and I didnt see eye to eye on anything after I decided not to have surgery for a problem. I wanted to try a less invasive method first. This didnt set well and after that I got a very poor reception each time I had an appointment. So, Today was my first appointment with my new Doctor.

She was very nice and seemed genuinely interested in my history. She had a few things to say about my weight but, all in all she felt my health was within limits. She did tell me that I needed to go work out in a gym a couple times a week and quit eating potatoes, pasta, rice, bread, and crackers. I will give it a try soon. I will be getting a CT Scan of my thigh to try and determine why I have so much pain there. Ill also have some normal blood work done.

I think this was a productive first appointment. I sure wish I could find an old GP like I grew up with. I guess the Marcus Welbys are all gone. I sure miss my Old Doctor Guy I was always able to talk to him and he always seemed to have a common sense answer to any problem I had.

No Time for anything

2004-02-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy couple days. I will get a real entry up sometime today.

Spirit has managed to get his incision opened up. Libby took him to the Vet yesterday afternoon. He now has a collar on 24/7. We can not let his sorrowful eyes allow us to succumb to removing the collar. He is also in some pain recently. I believe it is from the bones starting to knit together again.

Bruno is just his normal pain in the butt self. He is feeling better and has been playing with toys again. I guess his mouth has quit hurting.

Today is Dr Appointment day in our house. So, we will be in and out.

The Journal keepers are going to send out a survey to all the members. We need someone in each time zone to be a Block Captain and hold Chats for that time zone. Trying to get everyone together with the time differences if frustration all around. Be sure to support John. He is doing a great Job running our Group but, it is monumental work.

Ill talk more later.

Stitches, Teeth, Coffee, and Happy Birthday!

2004-02-04T06:14:00.000-08:00

First, Ill wish my Wife, Libby Happy Birthday. I am always amazed that she has lasted another year without killing me.

Spirit goes to the Vet to have his stitches out this morning. Bruno is recovering will from his dental work. I have a little envelope containing 8 incisor teeth. All are either broken or seriously decayed. The Vet thinks he ruined his teeth biting on the wire cage he was in for 5 months at the Pound. Luckily, these teeth that are between his upper and lower canines (fangs) are not real important for pets. If he lived in the woods like a wolf they would be needed. So he is back to being happy and will now be pain free from the rotten teeth and infection.

I just got another order of Gevalia coffee. Ive been drinking it for years. I know it is expensive but, I only drink two cups a day so I might as well like what I drink. My favorite is Breakfast blend followed by Pea Berry, Jamaican Blue, and Kona. I like strong, intense flavors that stay with me for a while. I only put a little evaporated milk in to change the color some. My Mom drinks hers without anything. She does in" a pot a morning. After about 70 years of coffee drinking she knows whats good and what isnt.

Coffee for me is like priming the pump. If I dont get my two cups as soon as I get up I am a little off all day. Oh well, just another addiction. Guess Ill go get cup number 2.

WARNING - Not Suitable for Anyone

2004-02-03T05:29:00.000-08:00

My Cousin Carol seems to get a lot of pleasure out harassing me. For a while now she has been bugging me about putting a photo of myself on my Journal page. She doesnt seem to get it that I am not photogenic and therefore just skip that aspect of my Journaling.

I am fearful that the placement of this photo will now send all children, most women, and some men screaming from their computer to be forever emotionally scarred by the viewing of my countenance. I do not want the general public to be running off cliffs like lemmings because of me. I have, for the sake of family unity, capitulated to her wishes and placed this photo here for all to see.

The picture is from an article done about me in the Las Vegas Review Journal. It is the only picture of my face available since my high school yearbook photo. To get my yearbook photo my friends ties me to a rail and carried me to the studio. There with the help of others they stood me up and snapped the shot. I didnt buy a yearbook.

I have always felt that people would read and enjoy my Journal as long as I was anonymous. Now I believe that no one will ever read my Journal again much less comment. Hopefully this entry will soon be moved to my Older Entry area and no one will see me again. No one ever looks at the Older Entry areas of Journals, Right?

THE AFTERMATH - Getting back to normal

2004-02-02T13:47:00.000-08:00

Its over for another year. Today is clean up day. Im a little hoarse from all the yelling, my brain has a headache from the beer and sangria, and my stomach is a little off from all the food. I will survive until next year when I do it again.

Libby and I yelled, Bruno barked, and Spirit howled throughout the game but, not as much as that last couple minutes. We did enjoy it. The critics were wrong about it being a boring Superbowl. It was exciting and as usual a fun day.

Many of the commercials were funny. I thought the horse and carriage in the park was hilarious. So were most of the Budweiser commercials. To end the evening we saw a new Survivor. Yeah, Go Ruddy, Go Rupert, Go Shi Ann.

Bruno is at the Vet having his teeth examined. Spirit is spending his day trying to get past the collar and lick his incision line. Libby took Mom to a Dr. Appointment and is now home reading the paper. Weve cleaned up and are in rest mode.

I guess it will be time to get ready for spring next. Oh, wait! Saint Patrick s Day is coming soon. Keep the beer ready.

THE SUPERBOWL-Game Day (Part III)

2004-02-01T00:25:00.000-08:00

THE SUPERBOWL-The Menu (Part II)

2004-01-31T05:53:00.000-08:00

Grilled Italian Sausage with / green and red bell peppers,

onions, and tomato gravy.

Grilled ¼ lb. Hot Dogs with your choice of toppings

Italian Torpedo Rolls and Bakery Hot Dog Rolls

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Deviled Eggs

Chips and Dips

MGD Beer cooled to 37*

Homemade Sangria with sliced Apples, Pears,

Strawberries, Limes, Oranges, and Cherries.

Lemon Meringue Pie

Gourmet dog biscuits and fresh made hamburgers

for the four legged fans.

We will start out with Libby rooting for the Patriots and I will yell for the Panthers. Depending on the play we will switch back and forth for the entire game. Yelling and laughing at the TV, the game, the commercials, and each other. Why do we do this lunatic stuff you may ask? Well, it is an excuse to just have real fun together and be together without anyone else around. Its the best kind of fun.

The morning line is still holding with the Patriots giving 7.

THE SUPERBOWL-Preparation (Part I)

2004-01-30T11:29:00.000-08:00

I am now in full Superbowl mode. This is get everything ready day. We will go to the store later and pick up all the goodies. Libby will buy some Superbowl napkins, plates, and cups. The EVENT is almost here.

When the first Superbowl was played in January of '67 I was aboard the USCG Cutter Castle Rock being tosses around in the wind and cold of the north Atlantic. About the only thing I was worried about that day was not running in to an iceberg. For Superbowl 2, I was up the River of Perfumes near Hue, Viet Nam. I spent my time running plays to keep from getting shot at by Viet Cong and NVA folks. I got to listen to a rebroadcast of the game when we got back to DaNang. For 3, I was in Sasebo, Japan. I listened to the game on Armed Forces radio. I watched Game 4, in the living room with my Dad who was recovering from a heart attack. A few months later I got married so, in January of 1971 I watched Superbowl 5 in my apartment with my new Wife. She yelled louder than I did.

Since my first Superbowl with Libby we have made it a togetherness affair. We plan the day for pre game shows, the game, snacks, and then dinner with the post game shows. We unplug the door bell and change the message on the telephone answering machine, Hi, were watching the Superbowl. We will be glad to call you back Monday. If you have an emergency, call 911. Dont bother us today. Even my Mother knows that you dont bother Libby and Bill on Superbowl Sunday.

Tomorrow, The Menu.

Disappointment

2004-01-29T15:11:00.000-08:00

Today I am disappointed. I have resigned from the local German Shepherd Dog Club. I just cant take all the fighting between the Members. It is absolutely ridiculous. One of the Officers of the Club slammed everyone for not volunteering to participate as workers at a recent match. She vowed to be there to work and bring her kids to work. In her tirade she demanded that everyone recheck their schedules and rearrange what they could to help out at the Agility Match. So, like Libby and I, many others who had personal commitments made changes to attend based on her appeal. When everyone arrived to work the Match, this Officer was not to be found. She had gone off on a fun weekend and wasnt in town.

I think this was the last straw for a number of us. As far as I know now three Member families have resigned already. The problem is that there are two factions. Those, whos only life is the Confirmation Ring showing their dogs. Then there is the group who has mixed breed, old, no pedigree papers, and non confirmation dogs. The second group is expected to support everything the Confirmation Group wants, needs, and does but, they in turn think it is beneath them to capitulate for anything that is not Confirmation.

When I joined this Club I was hoping to meet people with the same interests as me, be able to socialize with these folks, and have my dogs welcomed to participate in what was going on, that has not been the case. I am sorry it came to this. it is just one less opportunity for me to make friends during the years I have left but, at my age I sure dont have to put up with a bunch of childish bs at every turn. So, my Dogs and I will make our own Club.

Friends and Memories

2004-01-28T08:18:00.000-08:00

Friends came to visit last night. They are on a three day trip here from Nashville, TN where they moved to last year from NJ. Boy, was it good to see them.

I guess we have been friends since 1970 when we both went to work for the Police Department. The relationship grew over the years between us and our Wives. We were never Partners in a patrol car or on a foot beat but we would seek each other out at meetings or parties so we could sit and talk.

Our trips back to NJ after we moved to Las Vegas always included at least a few hours with Harold and Pam. Seeing them has always been part of any trip east. Since they moved to TN our last two trips have been to see them there at their beautiful retirement home just outside of Nashville. They have been here three times now. We sit and talk for hours and have a slow dinner so we can all relish the closeness of renewed friendship.

Well, they head back tonight for the wintry conditions at their home. We will again miss them and continue to communicate by email. They are a link to our past and the focus of many memories of the good times that existed for all our years in NJ. Its good to have friends, especially long time Old friends.

WALLS

2004-01-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

I grew up in a real Neighborhood. When I was a kid I could go to any house in about a 3 block area and get help, use the bathroom, eat, play, etc. As kids we just went to each others homes to play and maybe have a meal. We were all well known.

I sure miss that feeling of belonging. When I was married and moved in to my first home it was the same way. Everybody knew everybody else. We talked from our yards and on our front walks. We didnt need an invitation to Stop by for a beer. Everyone felt they belonged.

That is not the case here in Las Vegas. Ive been here since 1996 and still dont know a soul. The people on each side of me will say hello occasionally but, dont stop to have a conversation. If you wave at someone you recognize from the area, they look at you will cold stares. It is not friendly here.

I blame this on the fact that all the homes in this area are surrounded by a cinder block wall about 5 ½ to 6 foot high. It keeps your property separated from the other guys. It maintains your privacy. It also keeps people from becoming friends or even acknowledging each other. It allows people to hide. No one feels obligated to interact.

What a shame. People just dont want to make their area a real neighborhood" any more.

I feel cheated.

The Death of a Hero

2004-01-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

I am sorry to report the untimely death of another Port Authority of NY & NJ Police Officer. Officer William Sleap died Saturday of a self inflicted wound. He was 52 years old. Billy Sleap worked with me when I was assigned to the Staten Island Bridges Command. He was an enthusiastic Police Officer and a very talented Emergency Services Officer.

It appears that Billy, like many other rescuers at the World Trade Center, took the collapse and loss of life very hard. He worked tirelessly both on duty and off duty until the recovery and debris removal was complete. I am told that he was deeply affected by the incident even after he was back to regular duty.

This is a dark fact of life that Rescuers and Survivors are coping with. This Officer was one of five successful attempts. There have been others that were not successful on this Police Department of 1200. The NYFD and NYPD are also groping through these effects.

I ask each of you to say a prayer for Officer William Sleap and for all the Rescuers as they wrestle with their demons of 09/11. May God Bless Billy and protect him now.

A toothy grin

2004-01-26T08:35:00.000-08:00

Libby went off to take Mom to have her three front teeth pulled. At 81 I guess her teeth have just about had it. Things are done a little different now a days, The Dentist took Moms partial plate on Thursday and had the three teeth to be pulled added to it. When the Oral Surgeon finishes pulling the teeth he will immediately put the plate in place. They say that by doing this promotes quicker healing and a better fit for the plate. I think it is going to hurt a lot longer. Mom cant afford to miss too many meals. She has basically been on liquids since last Thursday. I dont think she will like puree of steak.

Lori put up some great Ice Storm pictures. Those of you who are not in the Winter Storm belt might enjoy a look. Those of you who use to live in a cold snowy area the pictures will remind you of why you moved to a warmer climate.

Here in Las Vegas we have an annual selection of the Best of Las Vegas. It is conducted by our local newspaper the Review Journal. Once a year we get to choose the best of everything from restaurants to make out spots. It is fun to do and there is a chance you might win a Paint the Strip Red night on the town. I'll get our submission done today. It has to be brought in to the Newspaper by Friday. We have participated in this event since our arrival in 1996. It is a lot of fun and gives us a whole new idea of places to go and see when it is published in March.

Oh well, I guess its time to take the Mutts out for some exercise.

Making the minutes count (Ha, Ha, Ha.)

2004-01-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

I have all the time in the world today to do stuff. Libby is off to help out at a club Agility Match. I am Dog Sitting and right now they are both asleep. So, Im getting some Email and Ground mail out of the way. I will probably do a little filing also as it is just about over my head.

I am concerned for all those I know in the Northeast. They are in a really deadly winter storm front. I understand that two separate storms are heading for them. It is so posed to snow from now until Tuesday. With the cold temperatures at such a low level and adding wind and snow it will be torture for them. I will probably continue to worry now until spring.

I have decided to do as much reading as possible on all the Presidential Candidates. I seem to have a choice already but, I have very little information so far on past accomplishments and issue stands to go on. There are a lot of Hooples out there on all sides that need to be weeded out. I hope it gets down to candidates that I can pit against each other on the issues and make a decent decision. I hate politics and wish we could keep them all in cages at the National Zoo. Then when we needed a certain expertise we could bring the one we needed out for a quick run.

The AOL Journal Awards are being given out. John G. has done a fabulous job with this. It is a real nice gesture and sure makes people happy. Congratulations to everyone who receives one of the 2004 Awards.

Deep Freeze

2004-01-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

Ive recently had conversations with DakotaRose and CrystalMoon about the lousy conditions in NJ. The temperatures are staying in the single digits and now there is the threat of a snow storm to start today and run through Tuesday. I am one happy Billy that I am here and not in Good Old Jersey. I doubt that I could handle the cold to that extent anymore. I remember well the bone chilling cold and wet. You never seemed to warm up no matter how close to the fire you sat or how much hot liquids you drank. The remedy for this is of course SPRING. Aside from that I guess staying inside by the fire with a book and a few dogs for warmth are about the best that can be done. Those of us who live in warm climates can not appreciate the full depth of the cold that the Northeast is experiencing. Just let me say to you that it could be deadly. Be sure and wish these folks warmth and a quick exit of this Artic Express.

Having the "Spirit"

2004-01-23T09:17:00.000-08:00

It is now a constant battle to keep Spirit from removing his cast. He tries to gnaw on it all the time. He is not so posed to be walking around much and it is forbidden that he be allowed to run or jump. Last night Libby let him out of the cage to walk back to the bedroom for the night. While she went in to the bathroom Our Boy managed to leap up on the bed. When I walked in to the room I almost had a heart attack. To get him down I put a towel around his belly and we lifted him off. He was not happy.

Im having a problem with all there is to do recently getting to the Journal reading I usually do. Please dont feel I am ignoring any of you, I just need about 30 hours in a day right now. I promise that I will get back to reading and commenting on your Journals soon.

I completed my picks for Journal Awards and sent them to John. He will present the awards and publish the list soon. This is an extremely hard task for the Judges. All the Journals have a lot of merit. It is hard to decide who is more worthy than who today, or yesterday, or tomorrow. But, I think we made some very good choices. Each of you who receive an award should be very proud of the Award and of your own Journal. We will judge a few more next month. Keep up the good work, Folks.

Just another Thursday

2004-01-22T16:48:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy day. every other Thursday the Cleaning Lady comes to help Libby clean up the mess we have created here. Believe me, it is a monumental task for the two of them. Presently, Spirit is in a cage recovering from his surgery so, he is no problem. Usually he would be under foot making a pain of himself. I usually take Bruno and head for my Moms place. The Cleaning Lady doesnt like him because he is very large and active. The first time they met he jumped up and put his paws on her shoulders and Woofed in her face. I thought she was going to pass out. Now, I just keep him away from her.

I took Mom to the Video store, grocery store, pharmacy, and book store. After dropping her off I went to the deli and ordered sandwiches for everybodys lunch. Then came home, ate lunch, did a few things around the house, and looked at my email. Oh yeah, I took a nap.

A number of folks have visited my Journal recently and I thank all of them for making comments and Giving me a look.

Take a look at these:

Happenings during the air I breathe.

The Making of a Home

MiaRenee

It all started at 21

Reflections of a Prison Wife.

Learning about life

2004-01-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

My Journey into Journaldom has been exciting for me. Ive met many fine writers and many, many interesting people. The biggest asset has been knowledge. Ive learned about computers, web pages, writing styles, people, and a host of other things.

Each day I read the comments left on my previous Journal entry and then I write my next entry. Sometimes Im compelled to answer questions posed to me. Sometimes I expound on current personal situations. Then there are the entries where I editorialize. Im not sure I pontificate for the head swelling knowledge that others are reading my thoughts or just for the stress release I get from writing what bothers me down in black and white.

All the above been said, I have placed my Favorite Sites category back on this Journal page. Ive added some sites that mean a lot to me. Hopefully, you will take the time to click on them and take a look. My intent is to give you an idea of what I am really like and where my brain travels.

Every time I go to someones Journal and read, I learn something new. I hope those who look at my site do the same.

Still Crazy

2004-01-20T07:44:00.000-08:00

Well, He's home and is already making us crazy. Last night he jumped up on the bed when no one was looking. I can't believe he could do that. That cast weighs a ton. He is definately going to need constant attention for the next six weeks.

We've had breakfast and Libby is on her way to get her nails done. So, I have "Puppy Watch".

I will make some sauce for spaghetti today. We will have capalinni bolognase tonight with a salad and some real crunchy bread. i will probably open a bottle of Chianti to go along with the dinner. Libby wants some meat balls also. I expect that she wants them to feed the dogs more than she wants them for herself.

Hey, go take a look at Mountain Of Expectations . What a great Journal. I've never seen an interactive map on a Journal before. Mere's site is a real fun experience. Give her a look.

Spirit and AOL Awards

2004-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

Of course, I will start todays entry with a note about Spirit-Boy. I spoke to the Vet last night. He says that Spirit is doing real well. After the anesthesia wore of my Mutt apparently spent his time limping around behind everyone in the office looking for attention. He was able to go out to relieve himself and then eat some dinner. This mornings report is the same. He is doing great. Spirit will not be allowed to run, jump, or play for six weeks. I would expect that I will be extremely crazy by the time the six weeks is over.

I have volunteered to help John evaluate journals for his AOL Journal Awards. Ayn, Berly, and Crystal will work with me. We received our first list of candidates last night. I visited all the journals and was quite impressed. I sure enjoy doing this. We should have the January 2004 recipients posted by the end of the month. Good Luck to everyone.

We now know who will be in the Superbowl on 02/01. Im looking forward to the game, the new commercials, the food, and doing all this with Libby. We have always had our own little Superbowl party. We make special food and get comfortable with the Mutts in front of the TV to enjoy spectacle. Its always a great family day.

OK, time for breakfast. I will have a fresh Florida orange today and some Special K. Ive just about empties the coffee pot already. Now, I will spend the next 3 hours running back and forth to the bathroom getting it out Bah! I hate getting old.

ADDENDUM: Spirit's Surgery

2004-01-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

I watched the entire surgery. Let me tell you, It was a rough 3 hours. Spirit tolerated the surgery well. He is resting comfortable but, well "drugged". He will stay with the Vet at least until Monday evening. Then we must keep him inactive for 6 weeks. That will be a lot easier said than done.

Thanks for youe Comments and Emails. Libby and I appreciate your thoughtfullness and concern.

I'll let you know how things progress.

Stressing myself "to the max"

2004-01-18T05:40:00.000-08:00

Today is the day we take Mr. Spirit for his surgery. He must be there by 7:30 and the surgery will start at 8:00 AM. I am up early mostly because I'm a little "stressed out " by this.

The surgery will repair damage done to his leg when he was very young. This damage to the bone has now caused him to limp and be in pain most of the time. So, the Vet. will break the tibia in two places and reset the bone removing the deformity. He will then reposition the bone at the knee at a new 4o degree angle. All this should take about two hours. Spirit will then be heavely sedated for about 3 days. We will bring him home Tuesday if all goes well.

I am seriously worried about all this. This to me is no different than what I have gone through in the past with my "human" family members. There is always the unknown to deal with and I am unable to control this or do it myself which increases my frustration. I have complete confidence in the two Vets who will do this but, am still worried.

Oh well, we will see what happens. I will let you all know what is up.

Starting the day off right

2004-01-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

I have oranges and grapefruits shipped in from Florida. Yes, I am in Nevada surrounded by Planet California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas citrus groves. But, I have yet to find oranges or grapefruit from these areas that can compare to what I get from Florida.

This shipment is Honeybell Oranges and Rudy Grapefruits. Honeybells are so juicy that you have to eat them with a bib on. I dont think you can buy a sweeter orange. The grapefruits are huge, juicy and sweet.

The fellow I buy from makes sure I get fruit that is picked and shipped the same day. He has invited Libby and I to visit him and promises to take us to tour his groves in his plane. What a surprise hell get when I show up. I doubt his little Cessna will accommodate my girth without throwing out everything including the pilot.

My Moms parents lived in the heart of Floridas Orange Grove Country. I watched the stuff grow and walked out and picked my own off the branch. Also, my Dads Parents owned a citrus farm outside of Mesa, AZ. I did the picking there too. From all I remember and the amount of oranges and grapefruit Ive consumed over my many years, Florida fruit is the best for me.

Supporting our Members

2004-01-16T10:48:00.000-08:00

What a great first meeting The Journal Keepers had last night. John G. gets a lot of credit in my book for putting all this together. It was nice to chat with many of those whos Journals I read. It is my plan to work my way through the Membership and view everyones Journal. It is a responsibility of our Members to support each other so, read someone new each day.

I hope to figure out a way to creat a small green check mark with the words Checked by Bill. That way I can leave a "foorprint" even if I don't have a comment to make about a current issue on a particular Journal. That way folks will know that someone has been to their site and read their entry.

I will also try to look back at the "older entries" sections. This is a concern of the Group, that folks aren't looking at anything more than the "up front" entries on a Journal. It is simple to do, Just click on the blue "Older Entries" link in the upper right side of the Journal you are looking at. Then pick the year and month and then you can start scanning. It's fun!

I am going to try and learn HTML so I can do more stuff here at my Journal. It should be interesting since I am old and addle brained.

"Gross Out" Contest

2004-01-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

5:00 PM PST today will be the first meeting of THE JOURNAL KEEPERS. I am really looking forward to this first Chat. Ive met a lot of nice people since I started my Journal back in August of last year. Many have helped me learn how to do more with my Journal that just type out some words. I like folks reading my Journal and I like hopping around to other Journals to read the routines and thoughts of people from many different venues of life. I hope that the formation of our Club will foster an ever widening membership. If you arent a member yet, give it a try.

Ok, now Ill howl a little. This morning as I lay sleeping in my warm and snug bed the Mutts decided I needed to get up with them. So, they jumped up on the bed and began to walk around. The little one (75lbs.) started to nuzzle my wifes head as she hid under the covers. The big one (85lbs.) just lay down on top of me. This as you can expect made breathing difficult. These antics aroused me from my sleep. As I turned my head to yell for everybody to get off the bed Mr. Spirit (little one) gave up his tongue quest of my Wifes face and turned towards me. Man, I never saw it coming! With one quick lick he stuck his tongue into my mouth and gave me a big slurp. UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hot, wet, dog tongue in my mouth. I am sure that I will now die a long and painful death from diseases that no man has ever had. Mouth wash and hot coffee have not removed the memory of this from my mind. I will now go down in history as the man who was French kissed by his dog!!!

Keeping it sane

2004-01-14T17:40:00.000-08:00

John G wrote about folks who break off contact and dont bother to tell you why in his entry today. I understand his frustration and the stab to his feelings. It is never good to have someone just stop dealing with you and be left hanging with no idea why you are being outcasted.

I try to follow some rules of conduct when dealing with folks on the web. If I dont like your responses to my talk especially, if you are rude, I sign off by saying, Thanks for talking with me maybe Ill talk with you again in the future. If I have enjoyed our banter I will usually say, I enjoyed this and will look forward to talking with you again. I have also told a few people that I felt that our views on some subject were so different that I felt it would be better for each of us to Go our own way.

What Im getting at here is to show the courtesy to let people know that you will or will not contact them again. Everyone needs closure with the events that they are involved in. Dont use profanity for any reason; it degrades you more than the other guy. Also, dont Yell, (type whole sentences in capitals) dont underline, and dont bold out. These are all email ways of being misunderstood, aggressive, surly, and impolite. Be courteous and treat everyone with respect. Keep a good name for yourself in our Journal Community. Insure that folks want to come back and talk with you again and again.

Reading and Writing

2004-01-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to read a few of the JOURNAL KEEPERS new Members Journals each day. Ive managed to leave a couple comments but, have just read and then moved on with many. I promise I will go back again and again to all the Members Journals and try to keep up with the yak.

A glimpse of the past

2004-01-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while I go to eBay and look around. Last week I found a photo album from an estate that was up for bid. The album caught my eye because it had belonged to a fellow who had been in the Coast Guard prior to and during WW2. One of the Cutters (ships) he was on was the USS Red Wing, CG 271. That was one of the Cutters my Dad had spent a lot of his career on. I bid and got the album which arrived yesterday. It was real interesting to turn the pages of this piece of history and look at all the photos of the Washington, Oregon, and Alaskan coast. I carefully looked at the people in every picture hoping to find my Dad. I didn't find him but did find some great pictures of the Red Wind and a fine idea of what she did on interenationl ice patrol and seal patrol.

During the patrols she was a lifeline for the small villages that dotted the coastline. She was a welcome visiter who brought the US Military to these remote places. She provided a change of pace for all she encountered while she went about her rescue missions and enforced the laws of our land. It was a real treat for me to see these pictures and know they were a documentation of the life my Dad had been part of when he was young.

Mom looked the album over last night and found pictures of many places that were also in my Pap's albums. Many names and places were familuar to her as things my Dad had talked about.

There are a couple photos that I will have copies made for myself. Some of the pictures of the Cutter herself sailing in the artic ice are spectacular. I then plan to send the entire album to the US Coast Guard Historian in Washington, DC. It is a serious photographic look at this US Coast Guard Cutter and what her crews did from 1935 to 1942.

Journaling through life

2004-01-12T06:43:00.000-08:00

As you can see I have finally learned how to add images to my side bar. I am proud to be a member of our new group The Journal Keepers and want everyone to know it.

People I've met through these Journals are the ones I credit with helping me learn how to cut and paste properly, how to upload to my AOL free space using FTP, and how to add images. Thanks all of you. I hope that there will come a time when I will be able to help someone learn like you all taught me. I may be wrong but, I think that the idea of The Journal Keepers is to support our members any way we can. I expect that by doing that we will strengthen our bonds with each other and surely perpetuate our group.

I'm off today to visit a friend who just had a knee replacement. This is the thrid time for him. He had both done and now there was a problem with the first. So, back to the knife again for him. I will take what is necessary for me to make lunch for us. We are having knockwurst, suarkraut, baked beans, rye bread, and huge amounts of beer. I expect it will be a good afternoon. I'm not real worried about the food but, must insure that the beer is at a proper temperature. You know if beer isn't cooled properly you will get excess amounts of caleries from it. But, chilled to the proper 37 degree temperature it has no caleries. Keep your beer cold any you will never get fat from it.

Breakfast of Champions

2004-01-11T10:33:00.000-08:00

I had a real treat for my breakfast today. You will only understand my pleasure if you are from the New York City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia areas. I was able to get some Pork Roll which is extremely rare here in the desert southwest.

You, not being from the areas I've mentioned, may ask, What the hell is Pork Roll? Ok, now that youve asked the question I get the chance to explain this regional food item.

Pork Roll or Taylor Ham is a spiced ham luncheon meat that comes in a round roll like a bologna. It is somewhat like a spiced, chopped ham but, has a tangy bite that is filled with a Smokey flavor.

The best Pork Roll is John Taylor brand. The second is Trenton brand and finally Case brand. Each, in order has a milder flavor and smoother texture. I personally wouldnt eat anything but genuine TAYLOR ham.

Pork Roll is fried in a pan and then placed on a Hard Roll (aka Kaiser) with catsup. Some folks add cheese and/or onion. It is also served fried with eggs and potatoes on a plate like you would have bacon and eggs. I like it best when it is thin sliced to fry in a pan or thick sliced and put on the charcoal grill. Either way, I am a Purist who only uses a little catsup with it.

I guess the influx of all us foreigners has prompted some Grocers here to carry it. I would imagine that they are sick of hearing a bunch of nasally Joizee folks demanding the stuff. We can be a bit irritating when we want something.

Ask for Pork Roll or Taylor Ham at you local Market or Deli. If they dont have it ask them to get some for you to try. Then fry it, put it on a roll, add catsup, and prepare to be transformed into a Joizee boy or girl when youse take your first bite.

Headlines: Extreme Cold Grips Northeast States

2004-01-10T19:15:00.000-08:00

Black is the sky, but the land is white-

Oh, the wind, the snow, and the storm!-

Apologies to Robert Service in LOST

A note to all my friends in the Northeast:

I wish you warmth by a constant fire,

I wish you hot food, I wish you hot drink,

and I wish you many blankets.

Bill

What did he say?

2004-01-10T10:31:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of people who have lost some of their hearing over the years. This can be caused by inherited problems, injury, or age. Mine for example came from being subjected to loud noises, mostly to mortar and small arms fire while in the military which was then exacerbated by working in and around transportation facilities. Most people lose some hearing as they grow older just like the Over 40 sight problems.

What can you, the person who has good hearing, do to help those who dont? First, realize that they have a problem and try talking with them about it. A very large number of people who have hearing problems never seek help until someone close to them mentions it to them. Second, DON'T YELL. Talk in a normal voice but, insure that you are facing the person. Most hearing impaired people do some form of lip reading to compensate for not hearing all that is said. Third, understand that people with hearing losses become like wallflowers at parties. This is because the background noise of music or talking drowned out the closer conversation that they are having with other people. So, hearing impaired people wind up just sitting around looking like they are in another world and they are.

Finally, I tell you with all honesty, hearing aids dont work properly for those who have a partial loss. I can be sitting in the TV room with my hearing aid on and still have trouble hearing the TV. Yet, my Wife will dump some dry dog food into the metal dog bowl in the next room and I will jump right out of the chair. There is no consistency with volume or tone in a hearing aid. Most folks quit using them in a couple weeks. Its easier to just not hear.

Thanks for listening.

Music

2004-01-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

Libby is off to a concert at UNLV. A friend's Daughter will be a viola soloist at a concert by the Nevada Philharmonic. This is quite an honor for a 14 year old. I've heard her play and believe that she is good. Classical music concerts are rare since we moved to Nevada. When we lived in NJ we were able to venture in to NY City to attend concerts at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center also, the Bach and Brahms programs at Riverside Chapel and NY Presbyterian Church. There is so little by way of "cultural" events here in Las Vegas that when one does appear it is mobbed. Each year during the Christmas season UNLV hosts the Messiah by Handel. If you want a seat you must arrive at least 6 hours early, then stand in line and wait. The waiting is just a little to much for me. Plus, my hearing is shot so I cant enjoy the music like I did years ago.

Las Vegas does have some Fine Arts and seems to attract more each year. Casino mogul Steve Wynn has a great art collection on display at the old Desert Inn, there is a good small art gallery in town, and both Bellagio and Rio bring in shows such as the Treasures of Russia and our National Treasure art exhibits. I guess I just expect everything to be like New York City and dat aint gonna happen.

Guess Ill go listen to my Iron Butterfly, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida album. For those of you who have never heard this album let me tell you what a quiet restful piece of music it is. Ill tell you that but, suggest you dont believe it.

Many, many strange thoughts

2004-01-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

I've been trying all day to post a poem I wrote about my Dad and our fishing trips but, even though it's not that long it is apparently over the 2500 strokes that AOL allows here. I sure wish AOL would increase the posting size some. I think double to 5000 would be great.

Yesterday was the fourth annirversary of my Dad's death. Mom, Libby, and I went to lunch so we would be together for a while when we were thinking about him. I do miss him and the fact that I can't call him and just talk. He and my Mom were married for almost 60 years so, I sure understand her loneliness and sorrow. My K-9 Partner, Bear and my Dad were great friends. I know that when Bear died he went looking for and found Pop. They are both together and waiting for the rest of us to show up.

Maybe sometime I will find a way to put the poem up so you all can read it.

Tomorrow I think I'll talk a bit about some current events in my life. You know, cleaning up for the "Cleaning Lady" , putting all the Christmas stuff away, or working on my Federal taxes. God, I can't believe how my life is filled with such exciting new things every day. I should be know as "Eclectic Man."

Ok, Ok I promise I'll get back to reality tomorrow.

Space Race

2004-01-07T08:17:00.000-08:00

The 50's was a time in our evolution when every kid in the world wanted to Go to the moon. Buck Rogers, Flash Gordon, and others filled us with dreams of space flight and aliens. I spent a lot of time following the progression of rockets in the old Nike program as our defense systems grew into the modern age. The Russians beat us into space in 1957 with the launch of SPUTNIK. I listened intently on a friends Ham radio set as it yelled out its message while making its first orbit around the world. I have always been interested in our forays into the unknown. I was and am amazed.

During the late 60s I met Libby. She spent her summer vacation from college each year working for NASA at Wallops Island, Virginia as a Math Technician. That, of course was during the time before pocket calculators and home PCs. A calculator was the size of a Volkswagen, a computer was as big as an aircraft carrier, and math was still done using a slide rule. We were in our infancy of scientific breakthrough and Libby was a real part of it. She was able to get me in to the Flight Control Center at Wallops a couple times during launches. Our Space programs were moving ahead rapidly and there were enough flights and experimental launches to keep everyone busy. I was really awed by it all.

I have always been interested in our space programs. I am absolutely beside myself as I look at the newest pictures from Mars. Our Lander has opened and taken some wondrous photos. Over the next few days the Rover will unfold from its cocoon and eventually move off the landing platform and roam around the Red Planet. I hope NASA continues to release new photos each day.

Space Travel

2004-01-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

I have been given the unique opportunity to help each of you entry the New Frontier of colonization. I have now available for sale twenty acre plots on our Red Friend right in the area of the recent landing. For a mere 3 Million Dollars you too can own a piece of fine real estate with no city crowds, no noise pollution, no ground pollution, and no air pollution. Act today, theyre going quickly. Dont be left here on Earth alone with all the chemicals. Go with us to pollution free MARS.

2004-01-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

Im a little disappointed with AOL and my problems with the Journal. Now I have discovered that if I clear the temp files, cookies, history, and make the off line storage 1 then close AOL and use Internet Explorer I can get on and post entries. But, besides the inconvenience it doesnt help my problem with AOL itself. Even downloading a newer version of AOL 9 Opt doesnt help. There is a problem somewhere that will take some time to ferret out.

Hey, I learned something yesterday. Now, first I have to tell you that I am completely self taught when it comes to computers. I started back in the mid 80s with an old Apple2c and have progressed to the point that I have built my own computer systems, starting with nothing more than a Mother Board and a Chip. So, I figured out last night that if I use keyboard strokes to copy and paste I can place a prewritten block of text on to my Journal. What a revelation!!! Ive always tried to use the AOL task bar and thought they had fixed it so I couldnt cut and paste just to harass me. I guess you can call me a dummy for taking so long to realize how to get around a problem but, I am really a novice with this stuff I guess. Oh yeah, and old too.

Here is another experiment Ive done for the first time. Lets see if I can insert a graphic into my entry. Now well see if I can post all this. Experimentation is a good thing. I enjoy learning but, find that my brain takes a while to soak a lot of stuff up anymore. It would be nice if I could plug in somewhere and just assimilate knowledge. I'll have to work on this graphic insertion stuff. It didn't work within the text area. We'll see what happens next. Maybe my 'puter will melt down.

I'm back again

2004-01-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

I guess I'm going to deal with this on and off stuff with my Journal for a while. It appears that no one at AOL can figure out why I'm having this problem. It is extremely frustrating but, I guess I'll have to live with it. So, while it is working I'll write a little.

I am really looking forward to our new focus group, "The Journal Keepers". We will have our first on line chat January 14th. I am sure it will be fun and informative.

I have met so many nice people since I've been writing my Journal. I've also spent a lot of time reading what other folks write. Let me tell you, there is some real talent out there. There are some very interesting people who are nice enough to allow us all to read their thoughts and feelings. What a trip!!!

I will keep up my writing and hope that others will also. By doing this I believe we can all help each other through shared experiences. Knowing that someone else as been through the same problems, had the same feelings, or done the same things is uplifting to the spirit. It all helps us to feel connected, united, and bonded. It takes away loneliness and replaces it with a world of friends.

Through this media we help ourselves and each other.

Man, are we good or what?

The Return

2004-01-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

OK, Here I am. I wonder how long this will last? Here it is the 4th of January and I've already "Cooked my goose" and had a birthday. I guess the year is over now.

I had so many great things to talk about the last couple days. You know, the regular New Year's pontification on life. I was really going to give you all an old fashioned oration about how life has changed and we are all doomed.

That is probably why AOL decided to "unplug" me for a few days.

So, I guess I'll only say that I hope each of you will take the time to refresh yourself during the rest of this year. We will be back to the "Old Routines" tomorrow morning. We will go back to work and time will pass quickly. Before long we'll all be saying, Wow ! It's Thanksgiving and almost Christmas and I haven't done any shopping. Where did the time go?

If you have to, put it on your calander to stop a few times during the year and look around. Be conscious of what is around you. You know, like the smell of new mown grass in the Spring. Like a walk on the beach on a Summer evening with the smell of salt air and the sounds of the boardwalk. Maybe even a ride through the woods in the Fall when the leaves have changed from green to bright yellows and crimsons. Rest your brain. Take time for yourself and see whats around that you can enjoy. Let's not rush through 2004 like we have all the years past. Take a few "Mental Health Days". With all our routines and work schedules try to squeeze in a little time to enjoy some "LIFE". You will be a better person for it.

I have spoken!!

Bad Journal

2004-01-04T01:22:00.000-08:00

My Journal access has been down since about 6:00PM on 01/01/04. I am beside myself with frustration. I believe the fact that I have just now been able to get on is a quick fix. It will end soon.

AOL tells me that there is a glitch in the Server Service they use for the Journal site. I think they are just harrassing me to see if I will divulge all the Corporate secrets I have amassed about them.

If they don't get this straightened out soon, I will.

Bye for now.

Mom Gooses the Goose

2004-01-01T17:14:00.000-08:00

Well, the goose is cooked and eaten. It was good but, a lot of work. I think the next time I get an idea like this I'll find a restaurant to do the cookin' for me.

Picrure #1 - Mom checks the goose to see if he's done.

Picture #2 - Libby is met by a delegation from the Dogdom Union. They demand their fair share of the goose.

Picture #3 - The goose roasted and prior to being devoured.

Cooking you goose in 2004

2004-01-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

I will write a short note now to again wish everyone a very Happy 2004. I can only hope that each of you finds the health, peace of mind, and prosperity you seek.

We just talked to our friend Vinnie in New Jersey who is relaxing on his one day off this week. He'll be back to work by 7:00AM tomorrow.

Libby just left to pick Mom up. Mom wants to be here to watch me prepare this goose for the oven. We are all sure looking forward to this dinner. I hope it turns out OK.

I guess that in a few hours I will be able to say that I "Cooked my own goose" in 2004. This is nothing new for me as I have "Stewed in my own juices" many time over the years. My Word, the puns are killing me!!!

Have a good day folks I'll report in later.

WE HAVE HEAT ! !

2003-12-31T05:02:00.000-08:00

We are again warm. The Furnace Guy came yesterday afternoon with the parts and made the repairs. I was able to sleep with only one blanket last night not the four I had been using. There is no "black ice" anywhere along the halls in my house, we can not see our breath while watching TV, and I no longer have ice tea in my mug. What a great feeling. Now I know why I never liked Alaska.

I had a real nice note from John G's son Robert. He is really an intelligent kid. It appears that John is really doing the "right thing" the way he is teaching him to think for himself. It is nice to be able to impart some of my "wisdom of age" on him and have a good conversation with a twelve year old where we both come away feeling good.

We picked up the goose yesterday. It weighs about 14 and a 1/2 pounds. I will stuff it with apple, orange, cranberrys, onion, and celery. We are all looking forward to this meal. I have only had wild goose, Mom hasn't had goos in about 50 years, and Libby had wild goose with me once. This should be an experience!!

Well, I wish everyone a Safe, Healthy, and Happy 2004. I hope each of you will find what you are looking for and you will have love and peace. Please remember to say a prayer for everyone who serves our Country in the Armed Forces around the world. They are our true hereos.

Let the party begin!!!

I await your thoughts in 2004.

2004 isn't going to be any better a year than 2003.

2003-12-30T05:36:00.000-08:00

Those of you who gaffawed me for my laments about the cold should be pleased to know that it has snowed here in the desert valley. This is the first time it has snowed in the last 5 years. The temperature is a warm 34 degrees right now. It is raining, snowing, and sleeting as I write. Therefore, I doubt the Furnace Guy will come to repair the heat today. Unlike those of you in other regions of the country who have furnaces in your basements, mine is on the roof with my A/C unit. I figure that someone will come here to give me heat about Monday, January 5, 2004. What a great way to end 2003 and start 2004.

We will go and pick up our goose today after Libby gets back from her trip to the "Hair Place". We have decided to roast the goose with apples, oranges, cranberries, onions and celery stuffed in him. We will make dressing in a pie pan instead of traditional stuffing in the bird. That way all this guy's greese won't wind up soaking the stuffing. We will have wild rice, rutabaka, fresh string beans, and bread/sage dressing to go with "The Bird". I have also decided to make up a batch of homemade Sangria with a lot of apples and citrus (Portugese style).

Oh well, guess I will get dressed in my old New Jersey winter clothes and go out to shovel the walks, oh, Wow! I don't have a snow shovel!! Whatever will I do? Guess, I'll just have to wait for it to melt and have another cognac.

The Joys of desert life

2003-12-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

We are freezing for real this morning. Sometime during the night our furnace "went out". The temp in here is at 58 right now and still falling. I know that for most of the population of our Country 58 in winter is considered balmy. Well, here in Las Vegas we consider that COLD!!! I am wearing a heavy sweat suit and have put a blanket over my shoulders. There are icicles hanging from the cactus and we can see our breath. The dogs who on a normal basis would never touch each other are curled up togther to share body heat. I took the butter out so it could get to room temperature this morning and it is still hard as a rock. My toast came out of the toaster cold. Libby turned the shower on and it snowed in the bathroom.

This is Siberia. We will surely freeze to death before noon when the Repairman is so posed to be here. Please if anyone reads this, thaw us out when Spring gets here.

12:30 PM. The HVAC guy just left. Leave it to me to have something so old that they don't keep parts in stock. He has to order a new igniter and says he will have it sometime during the day tomorrow. So, we will spend the next 24 hours (at least) with a very cold house.

I will send Libby over to Mom's and the dogs and I will camp out in the living room. I will light the gas fireplace for a while and should be OK throughout the night with an extra blanket. I will probably have a couple healthy 'belts" of congac to keep me warm. (Wow! what a great excuse) Maybe I'll have more than a couple. This will definately be a Two Dog one Billy Night (my appologies to the band).

The last camping I did like this was about 40 years ago. Of course, I was young then and my joints didn't stiffen up as soon as the temperature dropped below 65.

OK all you people, I hope you are warm and snug in your HEATED homes tonight. I also hope you don't sleep a wink worrying about my dogs and I as we brave the elements here on this frozen tundra. I can see the polar bears stalking us now.