John of God

My wife had Oprah on yesterday and she was talking about John of God. If you haven't heard of him,I hadn't,he is a doctor in Brazil that does amazing surgical procedures. He uses no anateshia and doesn't sterilize his equipment. His patients not only survive but don't get infections. He has a tremendous cure rate,for the incurable. It can only be described as miraculous. He doesn't charge any fees because he believes it is a gift from God and not his to charge for.
Oprah did have three guests on that had all been to him. Two were cured and the third was not. The third lady has cancer. All had nothing but kind things to say about this man. They did discuss faith and science. For almost everything he does, there is no scientific explanation for it. One can only draw the conclusion that God is at work here. The scientific community would not agree with that conclusion, I'm sure, but I see no other alternative. These people have not trained and studied meditation techniques like those people that walk on hot coals. The Indian mystics can do amazing things I won't deny that, but they do study for years. The people that go to this John of God do so on blind faith alone. They are desperate people seeking a cure.
As for me,I'm sitting on the fence on this one. I really haven't formed a complete opinion on him. There is a part of me that is very skeptical. If something is too good to be true,well you finish that sentence. He doesn't charge anything directly but donations are being taken to keep the thing running. It remains to be seen if his intentions are pure or not. Too many times it turns out otherwise. I am a bit of a pessimist when it comes to these things.
I do believe miracles happen every day. I do believe God may choose to work through people. I also believe in the power of the human mind. We are capable of tremendous things, including self healing.
He is not the first,nor will he be the last. I just hope that he doesn't hurt anyone or turn out to be a charlatan. Would I seek his help if necessary ? At this point I would have to say no. Then again, I'm not desperate for a cure.
It truly is a matter of faith. Either faith in his healing powers, or faith in God. Or is it a combination of both ? A number of cliches come to mind. The one jumping out at me now is, any port in a storm. I'm thinking that is the primary motivator from people seeking this mans help. He doesn't tell anyone that he can't help and that they are terminal. That is what I would want to hear if I were any one of the people seeking him." I'm just sayin".

A matter of perception

If I were on TV I'd probably be in my seventies. At least I think that is the way it would show up. Television lighting and the makeup must do strange things to peoples apparent ages. Ever notice that yourself ? Of course, a lot of it has to do with the product being hawked or the storyline.
If it's a vitamin or some supplement to keep you fit and young you will see seventy year old men and women jogging,riding bicycles and playing tennis. They are fit and trim with just a touch of gray hair and a few wrinkles for realism. If it is an insurance plan, well, I've fallen and I can't get up !
This scenario holds true for most advertising. There are a few twists thrown in every once and awhile. The drug companies will tell you how you can't start too soon taking certain supplements. When you are young they help build lean muscle and give you more energy. When you are old these same supplements will fortify and repair damaged muscles. We even need to start taking lubricants for our joints ! Maybe in the future we will be equipped with a few grease fittings to keep them joints loosened up.
A poll was taken and most "baby boomers" answered that old age started at about age 72. Whew, I've got a little time left. On television that age varies greatly. How old are most Grandparents portrayed ? A lot older than we are ,that is for sure. All their children must have been late bloomers. I don't have the stats on that but I know a lot of Grandparents in their forties. Great Grandparents are seldom seen on television shows unless it is a story about some Biblical figure or something. The implication being you would have to be that old !
Now when it comes to children they are usually portrayed as acting a lot older than they actually are. In almost all shows they could be 14 but speak and act like they are in their twenties. Even the ones that are supposed to be immature and intellectually challenged are witty,funny and have amazing insights into the human condition. They look a few years older too. Guess that makeup and lighting ages you. Shoot, they have babies on TV that are walking and talking by six months.
Well,I 'll never have to worry about that anyway. I don't think I'll be starting an acting career any time soon. I never was one to think much about how old or young I look. It is what it is. Makeup and lighting can make all the difference. For us normal people, dim lighting works best and try not to use old cliches and out of date expressions. You know like, twenty three ski-do or something.
Try  sentences like, me and my BFF were hangin' at the Mall chillin' or I'm down with that . Sounds younger. After all, age is just a matter of perception.

From the Sideline

The annual Fireman's carnival has begun here in Greensboro. Like all small time traveling carnivals it has an array of rides designed for the smaller children and ones for the larger kids.
Plenty of food and drink are available for purchase. They still have the cake wheel,where you can win a home baked cake. That is one thing that surprises me. Given the way things are in the world, and liability issues to be concerned with, it surprises me it is still allowed. I,for one,am glad that it is. I'll take my chances on the wheel and the cake.
Going to this carnival always reminds me of the carnivals we went to as a kid. Not much has changed,except the price. I suspect however, if you factor in inflation, the pricing is probably pretty much the same. The first four days of the carnival you can purchase the ride bracelet for a set price. Not a bad deal.
Carnivals and amusement parks always trigger an unpleasant memory for me as well. As a kid I didn't like the rides much. I'm just not into being spun around,lifted up and down and turned upside down. I wasn't amused ! To this day I don't enjoy that,although I have ridden roller coasters and the like. I would not be a good candidate for a pilot. I always tell people, if it doesn't have brakes and I can't steer it, I don't want to ride it. I never understood why others had to insist you ride it ! It's a blast,you'll love it,don't worry about it,don't be a wimp,and a host of other enticements. Never worked too well with me. I don't like it and for the most part will not participate. I never tried making up any lame excuses either. I would always say, No, I don't like that. Took a lot of kidding over that over the years.
In my later years I do ride the Ferris Wheel. Riding that is one of my earliest memories of the carnival. I vividly remember being on the Ferris wheel with my older brother,who insisted on rocking the car,and being terrified. I also remember him saying to me, " don't be scared, look at the pretty lights " the only lights I saw were stark white light bulbs on the spokes of that wheel. I have no rational explanation for my fear but I don't need one either.
The best years of the carnival are over. I enjoyed it the most when the kids where small. Riding those kiddie rides that do little besides go round and round. The look on their faces is worth the price. I do hope the tradition of the carnival continues. There were good times despite the constant nagging I received. One good thing became of that nagging however, I developed a tough skin. Don't care what you say, I ain't a ridin' ! You feel free to indulge yourself until you get sick. I'll watch and enjoy from the sideline,thank you.

Baby Boomers

I can talk about this because I'm one. A baby boomer. Not my fault just a victim of the times. I can't speak for others but I'm tired of hearing about it.
The economists talk about the baby boomers,the doctors talk about the baby boomers, the government worries about the baby boomers. Give me a break will ya ? We are not the first generation to face old age and a rising cost in medical care. What is all the hulabalou about anyway ? We are getting older and some of us are collecting social security. Some of us are having health issues. Some of us can't get around as well as we used too. Sounds normal to me.
Yesterday I watched a whole segment on the news about,baby boomers. The main topic was health care and CVS pharmacy must have been the sponsor of this segment. They started out talking about aging. How,over time,our joints stiffen,our vision gets dim and we don't hear as well. No kidding ! They put the news correspondent in a suit to simulate what it was like being old. This suit made it difficult to raise your arms and bend over. Shoes that made you unstable on your feet and glasses to blur your vision. Funny stuff to watch,especially when I already know all about that. They did make it seem as though the future was mighty bleak. Of course,CVS pharmacy had answers to most of those problems. They lowered their shelves, improved the lighting in the stores,provide magnifiers by the product so you can read the label and adjust the sound level. Very kind of them,don't you think ?
In the end the main point was that we can all live longer. Proper diet and exercise will help. Regular visits to the Doctor for tune ups will help. They went on to say how the baby boomers do exercise more and take better care than previous generations. Yeah,we do. That is mostly because we don't have to do things like chop firewood and haul water in from the pump anymore. We have far more labor saving devices today than our parents did and way more than our grandparents. We have more time to be concerned with exercise and diet. In the past they were more concerned with just living. As my dear Grandmother would tell you," idle hands do the devils work " so she stayed busy. Cooking,cleaning and staying busy ( active in today's jargon). They came about their exercise by honest work.
For me the bottom line is simple. I don't want to die but I will only live as long as the Lord allows. Now,don't tempt fate. There is a passage in the Bible about that I believe. I'm no Biblical scholar but didn't the Devil try to tempt Jesus into jumping off a cliff ? Lesson to be learned there. Don't tempt fate.
Another favorite saying I heard was, " you make a plan and God laughs ". I believe that is true also. We have no control over when or how we will pass.
There is just no other way to explain certain things happening the way they do. Take that Representative being shot in the head. Alive and making a wonderful recovery,while someone else dies from a tick bite. For the representative it wasn't her time.
I've always said I wanted to live to be a old man. The reason for that is a selfish one. It has been my experience that old people can pretty much say whatever it is they are thinking about, out loud. Much like little kids do. I think it is great. My great grandfather would sit outside at the gas station back home and just commentate the whole day. That guy was a wise man and that guy was a damn fool. I thought it was hilarious. I also thought it must be great to have that freedom to speak. Seldom did anyone say anything back to him, but usually just smiled,agreed and kept on moving. In today's world I am forced to reconsider that though. I'm not sure society is as tolerant to the elderly as they used to be.
We the baby boomers are not much different than our forefathers. We are a bit more spoiled and a little softer I think. But that is to be expected. Do we not spoil our own children. Didn't we try to make it easier for them just like our parents did for us ? It is all part of a cycle. Enjoy life for what it is. A fleeting moment in time.

"One Mans Treasure"

The other day I wrote about projects. My wife and I had made a lifeguard stand for the kids. I mentioned how I loved doing projects. I come about this love honestly. Growing up, my father was always doing projects,except he didn't call them that,he called it;getting by and making do.
He bought a two bedroom house but soon needed more room. Project, add an upstairs. So he,along with my Uncle, cut the existing roof off the house, lifted it with a crane,put in walls for the second floor and sat the roof back down. Simple as that ! I was little and can only remember seeing pictures of it being done. Dad built the fireplace in the end of the house. Built the deck,and the stone barbecue in the backyard.
He had several boats. All second hand that he fixed up. He was always fixing something. He lived by the rule, if you want it done right, do it yourself. He was a demanding task master. I really didn't like working with him too much,he had a tendency to yell a lot. The thing with him was, he expected everyone to know everything he did. He genuinely thought he didn't posses any special skills when that was far from the truth. He was one of those rare people that had the knack. He could build or repair just about anything. Exception, electronics. He would be the first to tell you he knew little about that. Funny thing though,his brother worked for RCA designing televisions. I don't know if his brother could do other things or not.
So you see, the project thing comes naturally to me. I am no where near as skilled as my Dad was. I did learn a lot from him though. Enough that I can tackle most projects with confidence. I have a good foundation in basic principles. I mentioned one other time that I feel like I was born at the wrong time. I would have loved to have a fix-it shop. I think that is what I enjoy the most. Fixing something. Wish I could fix this stupid computer ! Alas,like my Dad I'm not good with electronic things. I need to see the moving parts to understand.
One thing my dad never did was to make a lasting project. I, and as far as I know, none of my brothers or sister have a single thing that he made. He made tons of things ranging from lamps to boats.Nothing however that has been saved. Everything he made or repaired was for a practical purpose. It got used until it was no longer needed or wanted. Then it was either sold or discarded.
The general feeling being, no problem, Dad can do it again.
Dad became ill and suffered from Lou Gehrigs  along with other medical issues. He was a reasonably young man. He was sixty five when he passed. He was sick for at least ten years prior. Maybe that is the reason nothing survived. Who would think at age 50 the end was so near ? I sure wish something had been saved.
It is my intent to make something for all the grandchildren to keep. It may be vain but I hope they will keep whatever it is to remember me by. I've always thought these things happen by accident and mostly they do. I have two small jars that contain a scene,like a ship in a bottle, that were originally part of a lamp. A neighbor of my Dad made them for him. They are dated 1935. I'm sure that man never imagined that one day I would have them. I also have a replica of a rug weaving loom that my Great Uncle Fred made for his mother. Who would have thought. My sister is the proud owner of a miniature log cabin built by my Great Grandfather. These objects are priceless.
I do think whatever it is that I make has to be around for awhile. I don't think you can just make something,give it to them and it have the same meaning or attachment. Thing is, I'll never really know. I'll be gone. Or maybe I will know.

Well,wonder what I'll leave behind ? Treasure or Junk ? It is all in the eye of the beholder !                               

Sometimes we Lie

With age comes wisdom. Heard that somewhere, but doubt the validity of the statement. With age comes finally telling the truth ! When we get old enough,and that varies by person, we begin to tell the truth. The truth to others but more importantly, to ourselves.
I'll start. I never really enjoyed the taste of any beer. I enjoyed the effects of drinking the beer. Oh,I'd agree that some brands have a better taste than others,but none have what I consider to be an enjoyable flavor. It was a lie I told myself and others. When someone tells you, " it is an acquired taste " look out. It is more than likely not pleasant tasting. People " acquire " a taste for something for various reasons. Usually, I think, to try to impress others with their great taste. A little bit ironic,don't you think ? At my age I either like it or I don't. I really don't want to "acquire" anything anymore.
I wore clothing that was "fashionable" but I really didn't like it. For those of you old enough to remember,I thought beetle boots were stupid looking, but I wore them. Never could bring myself to put on a leisure suit though.
Some things others lie about. These are just my speculation, and opinion.
Eating really hot, hot wings. I think some guys eat that just to prove they are a man. Chili too. I fail to see how anything that turns your face red and makes you sweat can be enjoyable. I think it's a lie. That fad is dying out a bit.
Professing that Starbucks coffee is so great. If I paid five bucks for a cup of coffee I'd tell you it was great too ! It's a lie. Had one once,tasted like coffee to me, .79 cent cup tasted the same. I think there is a bunch of stuff like that. If it is expensive people tend to say how great it is. That is not always the case,so little lies.
Having these blackberry phones or whatever they call them. A device stuck in their ear because, " I have such important business ". It's a lie. They just want the latest thing. Not that there is anything wrong with that but will they want/have them say ten years from now ? Doubt it.
It's a quandary alright. When you are young you need to "fit" in. Wearing silly clothes and swearing to like things you really don't. This time frame is different for all of us. If you reach an advanced age and continue in this way you may be labeled, eccentric. On the other hand,if you start telling the truth,you may be labeled as difficult. Or they will call you senile, LOL.
I never drank a beer to feel refreshed. I never smoked a cigarette because I enjoyed the flavor. I never really enjoyed carnival rides like roller coasters and the whip. There are foods I don't like no matter how popular they may become.
I don't like swimming in the ocean. Truth is, I don't like swimming. I don't care about football or basketball. And, I'm not comfortable with public displays of affection ! There I said it.

Projects

I've always enjoyed doing little projects. Sometimes,not so little either. I have a tendency to get carried away on occasion. Well in the last few days,while the kids were away at camp, my wife and I did a little project. It got a little out of hand perhaps, but it was fun.
We started out to build a small platform to go at the base of the ladder leading into the swimming pool. The kids,being kids,are always tracking in grass clippings and dirt into the pool. We thought perhaps by placing a small platform to wipe your feet on it would cut down on some of this. We had a design in mind so off to the lumber yard. Not having made a detailed drawing I made sure to buy enough material. Got a little carried away there.
After this platform was complete I did have left over materials. Then an idea struck me ! It would be cool to build a life guard stand. I remembered seeing them at the beach when I was growing up. There were only at the Ocean. I thought they were pretty cool then and thought the kids would get a kick out of it too. My daughter in law likes yard decorations so I figured she wouldn't mind. With the kids off in camp it was the perfect time to build and keep it as a surprise. I love surprises !
Well,I would need to go back to the lumber yard for just a few more boards.
Construction began. It was a design as you go affair. Just using my memory of what they looked like I cut pieces and tacked them together. When I was satisfied with the look I fastened the pieces together permanently. My wife helped with the design and painting. Then I decided a few accessories were in order. Told you I can get carried away. So, I went to the store and bought a life ring. Then using some leftover material I made a lifeguard on duty sign. I was headed to the store for mounting brackets for an umbrella when my wife finally reigned me in a bit. Thanks Dear.
I left work a little early yesterday and together we sneaked the stand and platform over to my sons house. We placed the items next to the pool. When my son got home from work he saw them. He thought they were pretty neat and thanked us. Then my wife says, put a picture on facebook. Maria,that's my sons' wife, won't be on there ,she is headed home from work by now. I posted a picture and within' minutes; bam, it's Maria ! The comments says, " Hey,that's my house." Opps, our plan has been foiled. Didn't think she would be checking her phone before driving home. Well,she was surprised anyway. After she got home she called to thank us.
I love doing projects ! What's next ? It'll be a surprise.

" Little Boys Pies "

My Mom is a good baker. I remember well her making pies and cakes and cookies. Whenever she baked, us kids were in the kitchen, "helping." The woman has the patience of a saint. We would help peel apples and core them. Get the flour and sugar. Sometimes she would let us crack the eggs.
Depending on what was being made we always got to lick the spoon and bowl. I'm sure that is a universal thing. Kids have probably been doing that since the first cave woman ( or man ) made a cake. My own grand children help their Grandma all the time. Baking together is a bonding thing. The whole, food, comfort thing. Grandma still makes a lot of things from scratch so they get the full experience.
The one thing I recall the most was making what Mom called " little boys pies " or sometimes " little girls pies when my sister would complain. "
These were made by rolling out the left over pie crust dough. We would sprinkle the entire rolled out piece with sugar and cinnamon. Sometimes we would add butter or maybe jam. Then you carefully roll the crust up, like you would roll up a carpet. Cutting across the roll we would make the pies. They looked like tiny cinnamon buns. Putting them on a cookie sheet and into the oven. Mom would tell us to " watch " them closely. I can still feel the heat of the oven as I put my face close to that little glass window in the oven door. The lighting was poor and I would strain to watch as they turned a golden brown.
When they were done, out they came. Being " little boys pies " they were mine to do with as I pleased. I could eat them all or share them. Sometimes I would only eat a few and save the rest and other times just sit and eat them till they were gone. I remember the way they tasted to this day. Hard and crunchy with little real flavor. Oh,I could taste the sugar and jam but that hard baked crust overpowered everything. They were great !

I haven't had any " little boys pies " since I was a little boy. Made them for the grand children once. I don't think they enjoyed them as much as I used too. They do like baking with Grandma though. Morgan,my grand daughter,even bought matching aprons for her and Grandma.

Ah,time in the kitchen. Was a day when most of your life was spent in the kitchen. Now I think we spend more time in the "family room". It is still true that the best times are spent in the kitchen with good food and even better friends.

Let's Bake !

I'm Cool

Being from a small town and perhaps a little naive life outside of East Hampton was different. I like to say East Hampton was a lot like growing up in the mythical Mayberry. We were a close knit bunch and everyone pretty much knew everyone elses business. We didn't need to lock the doors at night and could ride your bicycle anywhere. We were familiar with the local policemen.
I was in high school during the late sixties and early seventies. The time of hippies and the love generation. We listened to the music,wore the outfits and figured we were pretty cool. We were definitely " hip to the scene ",some more than others. That depended mostly on what your parents would allow.
We heard and read about what was happening. Woodstock and various other festivals. The drugs that would expand your mind. Better living through chemistry. Heard a lot about Pot. Mary Jane,weed,rope and smoke. In my experience I never saw any of it. The other kids would talk about it and brag about it but I never personally saw any.
In August of 1971 I joined the Navy. Went to Great Lakes for basic training. Following that I went just across the street from the basic training center to attend what the Navy called an " A " school. This school is to teach you your specialty. Mine was to be a Machinist Mate. Main propulsion and auxiliary systems was the primary course of study. I was housed in a dormitory. There were cubicles inside that contained two bunk beds and four desks. There were closets and drawers for your belongings. The front of these cubes were open to the central hall. There was no door,or front wall for that matter.
I had been there for a short time when I woke up in the middle of the night. There was a strange smell in the air. I was in the top bunk and looking down I could see three guys standing around the trash can. They were sharing what I figured was a cigarette. Taking deep drags on it they passed it to the next guy. Well,I just naturally reached over and grabbed my pack of Marlboros. I spoke up and said, " hey you guys want one of mine ? " they all spun around quickly and looked scared to death ! " Sorry if I startled you guys but saw you sharing and thought I'd offer. " Then I think I said something about the smell and how something might be burning.
I can remember them having a quick discussion. One of them, unknown to me, was asking my roommates if I was cool ? Hey man,is he cool ? I'm cool, are you cool ? We are all cool. It was then I realized what they were smoking. I'm such a hick. Well, nothing to do but play it off. I assured them I was cool. And no thanks I had plenty earlier.
I was to learn and hear about being cool for years to come. Every ship was the same. In hushed tones,someone would always ask, are you cool ? The answer was always the same, I'm cool.

Remembering When

Back when I was just a little guy things were done just a bit differently. There were social programs, they called it " welfare " always in a hushed voice. There was a stigma attached to receiving these government handouts. Today the government issues Independence Cards ( a bit of a misnomer if you ask me) and people flash that card proudly.
That isn't what I was thinking about however. I was remembering my Great Grandfather receiving these benefits for a short time. I was too young to know all the details but I know that he did receive benefits. Back then, on a scheduled day, the government handed out boxes of food items. Much like some charities do today. They would contain the staples. Flour,sugar,canned goods and big blocks of cheese.There was also a can of peanut butter. About the size of your average can of coffee, when you opened it there would be a layer of oil on the top. You needed to mix it up before using it. It was a strong tasting peanut butter and quite thick no matter how much you stirred it. I can just remember going with my father and Great Grandfather to the place where it was given out. I remember Dad always making sure everyone knew it was for Gramp and not him !
Included in this box of food items would be a bag of corn meal. Very finely ground this meal was almost like a powder. I guess my Grandfather didn't bake or didn't like corn bread because he gave my sister and I that bag of meal to play with.
I remember being out back of the house with a garden hose and mixing that stuff up. We added dirt to the mix to firm it up. We were making corn pies.
I know we made quite a mess out there.
I know that he always gave my mother the peanut butter. I remember the can well. No label on the can, just black printing that said,USDA Peanut Butter. That was it. You cut the top out with a can opener and mom would cover it back up with a piece of aluminum foil.
What else may have been in that food box I don't know for sure. Maybe powdered milk,I seem to remember that. I just know that that is the way it was done back then. Those that needed these items were glad to get it. They came and went quickly and quietly to the hand out place. I'm sure a lot of them were a bit embarrassed to be there. Everyone got the same stuff.
A lot of changes have been made since then. Now it is ok to " look a gift horse in the mouth " back then it was not. You took what the government was kind enough to provide and was grateful. It was a different time and place. I'm thinking those that require these benefits today should learn to appreciate what they are being given.

The truth is

During Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm I was stationed aboard the USS Nitro AE-23. This ship was an ammunition ship. Our primary mission was to deliver ammo to the fleet. We could also transfer fuel across to other ships.
We were to go to Diego Gracia,a small island that is a supply point,and pick up ammo and return to the gulf. In order to do this we had to pass through the Straits of Hormuz. The straits are quite narrow and the enemy had scud missile bases along its' border. Our ship by its' very nature and design has little armorment and very little firepower. The ship was an old one and our main battery was two fifty caliber machine guns. We were told not to worry though, a destroyer would accompany us on this mission.
 We left in early evening to take advantage of the darkness. Lights out,darken ship as is the command.
I worked in the engine room, deep in the bowels of the ship. I could hear messages being sent between sentries but that was all. We were running along at 1/3 ahead,slipping through the straits. It was an anxious time as you didn't know if the enemy was going to lauch a missile at you or not. It was a comfort knowing that destroyer was right behind us,watching our back so to speak.
That destroyer had all kinds of radar and offensive fire power. They could detect a launch and counter it quickly. They could fire a missile to intercept the other missile. Fire Control Radar they call it. Amazing stuff. ID the target, lock on, guide the missile and strike ! Bam that stuff is great.
Well,we made it through the Straits alright. Once we hit open waters again it was full speed ahead to Diego Gracia. This Island is owned by the British. Being our allies, we of course use it as a point of resupply. There isn't much on this island but of course there is an enlisted mans club. A bar if you will.
Those of us that were granted permission headed on over to the club. Naturally, we met up with some of the crew from that destroyer. We walked over and shaking hands thanked them for watching our back. We told them how the only thing we had to defend ourselves with was those two fifty caliber guns. The boys laughed and said, that's about all we have too ! Our fire control radar is inoperable,that's why we came here. To get it repaired.
I remember thinking, what ? Stupid Navy ! They didn't tell us the rest of the story. A destroyer was accompaning us alright. One whose fire control radar was inoperable.
We loaded up and headed back to the Gulf. No destroyer escort on the way back. We transited the straits without incident. We made several more trips to Diego Gracia with and without escort. Thankfully, we always made it through without being fired upon.

Disillusioned

Today I learned that there will be no parade for the Fourth of July here in Greensboro,Md. A lack of interest and the commercial viability being the contributing factors to this sad state of affairs.
We did not have a parade for Memorial Day. That was usual for here. The little league parade did go as scheduled  however. The fireman's carnival will be held,on schedule, complete with fireworks. That is the big fund raiser for the Firemen and I understand the importance of it. Still,I can't help but wonder how this can be allowed to occur. No parade for the fourth of July ! Greensboro is in AMERICA ! In an earlier blog I told how I tried to recruit Veterans,any veterans,to march in parades to no avail. I did not have even one respondent. As far as I know the  Veterans group only activity is having a dance on Saturday night. The only conclusion one can draw from all of this is a lack of pride and patriotism in Greensboro.
I know all the arguments. If you have seen one Greensboro parade you have seen them all. True,that way in most small towns I imagine. Not many people are coming to the parades anymore. Probably true, but do real numbers exist or are we going on perception ? The cost. Well I suppose it does cost something for fuel for the trucks and the police department. I  would be interested to know what the cost is ? And finally the kicker, lack of interest. No one wanted to organize the parade. Well, I for one did not know we needed someone to do that job ! The town never let it be known. I have been informed that the Fire company was the usual organizer for this parade and it was not the towns responsibility.
As a retired Navy veteran I am ashamed. How could this be allowed to happen. The fourth of July is to celebrate the birth of our nation. We are going to let that slide for indifference. Neither the fire company nor the town would plan this event ? What of the Veterans ? I do not belong to any of the veterans groups here in this area and I am glad I don't. They readily accept the tax breaks and other benefits provided by the government but are unwilling to celebrate the birth of the country ! Shameful ! Surely some of them belong to the fire company as well.
If there is an event where money is to be made I'm sure a parade would be organized, pronto. For shame Greensboro,for shame. And shame on any Veteran that was aware of this.
I will let my displeasure be known. Bucking the " good old boys network " is an unpleasant task. I suppose I'll just be labeled as an old fool or troublemaker. So be it. The time is too short to get anything together now but perhaps next year. My name will be at the top of the list should they need someone to organize !

Claims

I love to talk about ridiculous claims made by advertisers. Whether it is some miracle product or guarantee I can't help but feel a mixture of amusement and anger. Do you really believe I am that gullible ? Or dumb ? Gimme a break. Then I think, it must work though,they do spend millions on these ads.
The latest one I have been hearing is from Quaker State. Yup,the motor oil company. They are now saying if you use Quaker State oil in your car or light truck and it reaches 300,000 miles they will send you a check for the Kelley blue book value of your vehicle.
Being somewhat of a car guy this caught my attention. Buy a new car,at today's price of say 30,000. Drive it long enough to reach 300,000 miles. Keep your records and receipts to show that you have only used Quaker State oil and get a check.
Let's look at this deal. First off, insurance companies figure the average person drives about 10,000 miles a year. Let's say I drive twice that amount. It is still gonna take fifteen years to reach that mark. Now assuming I paid to have my oil changed every two thousand miles I'd have changed it one hundred and fifty times. That's a bunch of money. Would have spent that anyway. The hook here is they say they will give you the Kelley blue book value of your car. Free money ! Ever look at the Kelley blue book value of a fifteen year old car ? Fifteen years from now it would cost more to mail the check than the value of the car. That car ain't gonna be worth squat ! With luck, a collector may want it. What most people don't hear about is the Kelley black book. That publication tells you the trade in value of a vehicle. It doesn't go back fifteen years. The blue book normally doesn't either.
I'd be willing to bet,and I'm not much of a gambler,that Quaker State will never,ever have to send anyone a check ! To me it a silly guarantee and worthless. The marketing people must have worked overtime on that one. I put it in the same category as free " whatevers " for life. You have seen those ads I'm sure. If this item ever breaks or dulls we will send you free replacement blades; FOR LIFE ! Just pay shipping and handling,if we are still in business.
P.T. Barnum reportedly said," there is a sucker born every second. " He was right about that. I've been fooled a few times too. I have learned to listen to the ads however. You have heard of reading between the lines,well,I've taught myself to listen between the lines. Being a Navy Recruiter helped too. I never lied to anyone ,they just didn't listen.
Sometimes when I am extremely bored I even watch those infomercials. They can be funny and entertaining. Good place to see the stars of the past too. I think my favorite was, The Ab Roller. Someone took a wheel off a lawnmower, put handles on it and actually sold it as a piece of exercise equipment. If you used the Ab roller according to the program provided you would have rock hard Abs. But now we don't need that. Just strap on a belt and let the spasms from electric shock do the work. You will have rock hard Abs in no time. You could use that check from Quaker State to buy it. Isn't America wonderful ?

Heads Up

When I was young my Dad had a night job so he would sleep during the day. In the afternoon,during the summer months, Mom would take us to the beach to get us out of the house. Dad could finally have some peace and quiet.
We usually went to a beach called Sammys' beach. I found years later it is correctly named, Sammis beach. Sammis was someones surname.
I am the youngest of the brood. I was playing along the edge of the water. My brother was out a ways and diving for clams. I remember him popping up and yelling I got one. He was waving his hands around and bouncing up and down.
I yelled to him to throw it to me. He threw that skimmer clam in a big arc. I made the attempt at catching it but mistimed it. That clam landed squarely on top of my head. I went to one knee and commenced to crying. Mom hollers, come here and I'll look at it. Going up to Mom I bent over and the blood started flowing. My Mother is not good with wounds or blood ! She started to freak out ! A neighbor lady was there and she was completely cool in a crisis.
She grabbed a beach towel and soaked it quickly in salt water. She put that towel on my head and told me to hold down on it ,hard ! That salt water was stinging something awful ! She told me the stinging meant it was working. Exactly what was working I have no idea, but I felt better knowing that.
Then we all loaded up and headed for the local clinic. It is a distance of about three miles or so but sure seemed longer. Prior to this trip I don't believe I had ever been to a doctor before. Well,except to be born I guess. Anyway, I was pretty anxious about what would happen. When we arrived the nurse took down the information and said, Dr. Abel will be right with you. Now terror set in ! Dr. Abel aka the slasher ! We had all heard the stories about him. A fine doctor to be sure and extremely knowledgeable but quick to cut. I'm already cut so maybe I'll be spared.
Dr. Abel shaved a small spot around that cut on the top of my head. He used what he called staples to close the wound. I remember the instructions to not go to sleep for a while and after I did for Mom to check on me. Holy Cow was I going to die ! But,that was it. It healed up fine,still have the scar,and I didn't die. Some say I wasn't the same after that. My catching skills improved and there has not been a repeat. I also learned that if you get hurt,don't run to Mom.
Later I learned if you get hurt Dad will help but you may not want him too ! You might be better off taking your chances. Let's just say his bedside manner is not the most compassionate. But that is another memory.

Savings

We are having a ten for ten sale. Ten items for ten dollars,mix and match. The sale is doing really well. I am amused as the saving is not that significant. You are only saving a couple cents on the item.
As I'm sure you have heard,it was F.W.Woolworth  who is credited with pricing things at .99 cents. He was competing with a store across the street. The ploy worked well and business was booming. Everyone else followed suit. Now most everything ends with .99 cents. Or the famous line, it is under a dollar !
Some items that were .99 cents are included in the ten for ten. So actually you are paying one cent more. F.W. would be proud. Most people buy the ten items, although you do not have too. These marketing people are something else. The old snake oil salesmen are still at it ! Another favorite "trick " of mine is when they put an item in the advertisement flyer for its' normal price. It doesn't say it is on sale, but people assume it is. Brings to mind one of my favorite sayings about the word assume; it makes an ass out of u and me.
Call me a skeptic but I take these claims with a grain. Bottom line is people are in business to make money. They are not giving away anything or selling below cost. You get what you pay for, sometimes. I am amazed by what people will buy. Ten bottles of hot sauce ? Do you really use that much ?
Of course, I have never figured out the theory behind,if I buy it on sale I'm saving money, even if I don't need the item in question. A certain gender is noted for this behaviour.Just an observation I've made and a general statement.
Ten cans of pringles for only ten bucks. What a deal, better stock up now.
If I had it my way the price would be displayed including tax. So,in Maryland the tax is 6%, a dollar bag of chips is $1.06. I like that idea, as it is easier to keep track. Snack foods and soda are taxable, unless you are on welfare. " Just sayin' ! " It is one of my pet peeves.
Yes,I would say the sale gambit works well. Make people believe they are getting something cheap and they will jump on it. It is not so likely to work with me. I only buy stuff I want. I go to the store for a specific purpose. I do not like browsing and don't understand the concept. Why walk and look for hours at stuff I don't want or need ? I just don't get it. Of course, tools now, one does need to browse them all the time as you never know what new tool might be available. Might even be on sale ! A special promotional offer to entice you to try this tool. Makes sense too, tools are useful items unlike handbags or makeup or new shoes.
Well, I'm off to restock the ten for ten items. They're going fast. Best for you to enjoy these savings while they are here. See you at the store.

Ketchup and Toilet Paper

In these times of tightening our belts and couponing it occurred to me that there are just some things that you can not skimp on. I think these are different for most people. A couple years ago it was cigarettes for me. I would always scrape up the price of another pack. I preferred Marlboros' and would pay the premium price.
The grocery that I work for is,Save-A-Lot, where you can save forty per cent every day. The sign evens says so ! I see people doing their shopping and notice what it is they will cut back on and what they don't. The store has its' own brand of most everything but does have some name brand items as well. We also run the ten for ten special deals.
The items I notice that people are reluctant to change are the snack items. People still want the Frito Lay products, Herrs' and Utz potato chips and their Pepsi products. The store has a full line of snack items in their own brand and we do sell them but the name brand items are more popular. Same with the soda. The more conventional items people do not hesitant. Canned goods and cereals. And truth be told,meat is meat.
With the candy it is a mixed bag. If it is being purchased for the kids,the store version works fine. The adults want only the name brand stuff. Hersey chocolate and other top brands.
Now,for me, I always say there are two items I will not substitute. Ketchup and Toilet tissue. Both of these products are essential to my happiness. Either of the top two brands of Ketchup will do, Hunts or Delmonte. After all, I'm not a nut case. And with toilet tissue it must be a high quality product, for obvious reasons that I needn't discuss here. The cigarettes went by the wayside.
We all have our own priorities and preferences. Folgers coffee is high up on the list. Any yellow mustard will do. I prefer Coca-Cola but Pepsi will work.
Watermelon can be seeded or seedless,no matter.
What do you refuse to skimp on ? Times are hard and we need to save a buck where we can. There are some things however that can not be changed; period !

The Flag

Today is Flag Day. You don't hear a whole lot about flag day. There are no big celebrations or long weekend associated with it. It is just a day to remember.
It was June 14, 1777 when the Continental congress approved the design of the flag. Interesting that this was a Saturday. Wouldn't get congress to do anything on a Saturday anymore.
In 1949 President Harry Truman designated June 14 as National Flag Day. There were celebrations prior to that  but nothing official. Now it is pretty much just a note on the calender. It is in the same category as say, National Hot Dog Day or National Pizza Sauce day. A sad thing really, given the importance of our national standard. I am a bit surprised that Flag makers aren't having huge sales in honor of this occasion.
My flag will be up as it is most days. I do take it down for bad weather and sometimes I am remiss about putting it back up. It is a comforting thing seeing the flag waving. In today's world we do not pay the respect to the flag as much as we should. Only after 9/11 did we see a resurgence in that area. I still see many people wearing the flag as an article of clothing or displayed in what I consider inappropriate situations. I've even written to the mayor of Greensboro on one occasion for the sorry condition the flag was in. No action was taken.
All too often I see the flag dirty and torn flying from some flagpole. It is a sight I do not enjoy. Flag day is an excellent time to replace your flag. You always hear them saying replace your smoke detector batteries when you change the time. How about replace your flag every Flag day,at a minimum.

Our flag is a touching symbol of hope. Hope for the future. To millions of people around the world that flag represents freedom and opportunity. As an American I fly it with pride. I want it draped over my coffin. The flag is no small thing. It should be treated with respect at all times.

Just sayin'

Here we go again. Senator Weiner is seeking professional help ! I suppose he needs sexting therapy. I'm sure there is some college professor somewhere that claims to an expert in that field. Tiger Woods found his sex therapist and is apparently completely cured. He can't play golf as good as he used to, but his infidelity problem seems to be cured. Oh,that 's right, he is divorced now so that takes care of that issue. Maybe someone just needs to take the phone away from the Senator.
I was pleased to hear the Democratic leadership is calling for his resignation. He had asked for a leave of absence to pursue therapy. At least some are getting a sense of reality. I do wonder if it because one of those leaders is a woman. If was just the " boys " would the attitude be the same ? I would certainly hope so.
I know that Senators and Congressmen are just people like you and I. So are sports stars and movie stars. We all have our shortcomings. We all do and say things that we know we shouldn't. We all eat of the forbidden fruit. Equally,we should all have to suffer the consequences of our actions. I get real annoyed with this therapy stuff. Like that is going to make it alright. Yeah,I did that but I'm seeking therapy. Oh, ok then. If you are seeking therapy then you already know whatever it is you are doing is wrong ! Problem is, you got caught. Apologize to those you have hurt, quit doing whatever it is and ask for forgiveness.
I am not trying to minimize legitimate issues. People do develop compulsive behaviours and need help. A therapist can provide help. Thing to me is a therapist is there to provide help,not an excuse. Just because you see a therapist does not excuse your behaviour. Deal with it,Senator !
I think one of the major problems we have as a society today is accountability. People are not being held accountable for their actions. Look at the criminal justice system. Is justice being served ? In too many cases I think not. Way too many times second and third chances are given. You commit a crime,get sentenced to prison, then get paroled for good behaviour ? Doesn't make sense to me. School teachers are not even allowed to discipline their students. I'm not talking about corporal punishment,I'm talking about simply holding a student accountable. Sure he/she didn't do their assignment but we have a excuse. Was a time when the excuse had best be a death in the family or natural disaster. Now. I didn't feel the need , is excuse enough. I need homework therapy.
If he wasn't a Senator I'm sure we would never have heard about this. This behaviour happens every day. It is just a sign of the times and new technology. I'm thinking cavemen probably drew lewd pictures. I do wish the News people would just state the facts, and move on. The Senator will be fine. He can always do the talk show circuit and write a book.

A different view

I was talking with my older sister last night. I don't often get the chance to see her as she lives in Florida. I call her, but it is difficult to reach her sometimes. Each of us being busy living our lives. My sister doesn't do the computer much. If I send her e-mail she may or may not open it . If her husband doesn't bring It to her attention,well,forget about it.
The last few years I have been in touch with her more frequently than in the past. I find as you get older you like to talk about the past a little more. I am always struck by the fact that she sees things so differently than I remember. She is two years older than I. You have heard the saying, look through my eyes and the view is different. That is certainly a true statement. She is also amused by my recollections.
We all tend to remember what we choose to remember. We can also conveniently forget certain things, or episodes. Selective memory is a wonderful thing. It is one of Gods little miracles. I do enjoy our chats about the past and seeing it from a different angle. We are way past the point of debate. I remember it this way and you remember that. We both accept it for what it is. Neither of us are bitter over anything and that is a good thing.
Her life is quite a bit different than mine. We share a few common things. Besides the obvious,her husband retired from the Air Force and I retired from the Navy. She had two kids and I have three. We both have grandchildren.
That is about were the similarity ends however. Nothing wrong with that. She has been married to the same man all her life. They have built their life together. I am very happy for her.
This may sound a bit sexist but being a boy and girl we do remember different things. I can tell you every car we had. The year,make and model. It's a guy thing. I can remember building things. My sister remembers the girl things. Baking and recipes. Gossip too. Not that Guys don't gossip ! We just gossip about different stuff. So, not only do I hear a different story, but it is told from a totally different view. Each time we talk I learn something new. Sometimes I do have to straighten her out. She got the story all wrong. We always end up laughing about that stuff.
I have spent far more time separated from my sister than I have being with her. She was busy living and so was I. At one point she was living in Germany and I was in Virginia. There was a period of ten years when I didn't see her at all. Her children were all grown before I ever got to meet them. She lives in Florida and I in Maryland. I can't see me traveling down there anytime soon and I don't think she will be coming to Greensboro.
Well,maybe we will get together before another decade passes. I hope so. It would be nice to just sit and talk. I'd like to spend some time with her when we could just relax. Not vacationing, just visiting.

If it ain't broke.

I'm sitting here this morning trying to resolve computer issues. I am the kind of person that likes to do it myself. If you want something done right ,do it yourself. That has been my motto. I must say I have been fairly successful in most things. Computers,not so much. I can read manuals alright and find useful information on the Internet. There are numerous wizards out there. Problem is, figuring out just what it is they are talking about. I need an interpreter !
My brother was kind enough to give me his "old" computer. He just purchased a new one and had no use for his old one. Nice of him to think about me. This computer is running Windows 7,the latest thing,and mine is still running Windows XP. I thought an upgrade couldn't hurt. Especially when it was free.
Shouldn't be a problem to switch, right ? Wrong. The first article I read about transferring files and programs from one computer to another says to use a serial cable. After doing that research,to determine just what a serial cable is, I'm off to Radio Shack. Twenty three dollars later I have a cable. Before opening this package ( past experience in play here) I do further reading on using this serial cable. Half way through the instructions it says, insert the Windows CD. What the heck is that ? Oh,don't have that. Reading further along, the article says you can also use a "Easy Transfer Cable." Checking the Radio Shack website I find they sell them (at participating outlets) and the price is about the same as the cable. Feeling pretty good about not having opened the package,I'm off to Radio Shack. This store doesn't have the Easy Transfer Cable. The clerk,a young man, says to just buy a "flash drive " copy everything to it and transfer it to the new computer. The drive thingy is one dollar less than I paid for the cable. I'm a genius ! Get home and discover the flash drive will not hold all the information from one file,so it copied part of it. Which part and where it left off I have yet to figure out. Well I'll get to that later.
I need to establish my Internet connection. I have been using a wireless adapter on my computer and it has performed great. Should just take a minute or two. You just plug this thing into the USB port and a few clicks later, bang,you're connected. Wrong, the device driver is not correct. Well,I know how to fix that. Off to the manufacturers website for a free download of the required driver software. My new flash drive thing can handle that information,no problem. We are back on track. Derailed,the computer doesn't detect the new driver. Still working on that issue.
I'm thinking my old reliable computer might be all I need after all. If it ain't broke,don't fix it,that's what I always say. The old way is the best way. New stuff is alright but if you are comfortable with the old and it gets the job done,why change. I could just use that new computer for storage and backup. It would be safe from viruses if was not connected to the Internet. Yup,that's the ticket.
Now,just how do you get the stuff to automatically back up to the other computer ? Probably going to need that serial cable.

" Boys Harbor "

Just down the road, a short distance from my home, was a boys camp. I would see the entrance to this camp as I was on my way to the beach. The drive was flanked on either side by white picket fences. Just about three sections on each side. A smallish sign announced this as " Boys Harbor."
All I knew of this place was it was a camp for underprivildged kids. At that time, all that meant to me was, they were poor,they probably were trouble makers and they came from the city. And, out of the three being from the city was the worst trait. Being poor was no big deal,a lot of us were poor. Being a troublemaker,well that went along with being from the city. If you came from the city you stood a good chance of being a gang member. Why everyone knew them city kids were trouble ! But in the city there were these rich folks that wanted to help people. I always figured they did it because they felt guilty having so much. They wanted to kinda smooth out the path the heaven.
A gentleman by the name of Duke owned this camp. I heard that it was a non-profit organization. Looked like that man already had enough money, so it seemed reasonable. One summer, while I was working at the local gas station, this Mr. Duke left a car there. It was a big mercedes benz. The one that looks similar to a Rolls Royce. It was a fine automobile and ran great. He left that car there and said to sell it.He had no use for it. It was hard for me to imagine having that kind of money. To just say, sell it for whatever you can get. Acted like he didn't even care.
Looking back I can't say I ever saw any of these underprivildged boys. I really don't know if they ever left the camp. I don't know how long they stayed at the camp either.I don't recall any stories about them.The camp was there and I paid it little mind.In my view of things, only rich kids and troublemakers went to camp.The rich went to ride horses and sit around campfires.The troublemakers were sent there to straighten them out.My summer vacation was spent entertaining myself or working when I was old enough. The closet I ever came to camp was vacation bible school.
I just read that this camp was sold. The town and the county have jointly purchased the property. They got it for a steal, 7.2 million dollars. Mr. Duke sold it cheap with the stipulation it never be developed. Good for him. I am pleased that the land will remain unspoiled. What the exact plan for its' future use is I'm not sure.
The camp operated for many years. I'm sure some boys must have been helped. I know nothing of what programs may have been offered there. I did wonder if I got in trouble if I would be sent to camp. I already knew that answer though, NO ! When I got in trouble the punishment was swift and sure. We were poor enough alright,too poor to go camp that was for sure. Maybe if I moved to the city ? Nah,wouldn't be worth it. I did think the name " Boys Harbor " was a good one,given its' purpose. Any port in a storm ! Hope some of those boys found a safe harbor and settled down.

Another Year

Tomorrow is the last day of elementary school here in Greensboro. Another school year comes to an end. Next year I will have a third and fifth grader. My,how time does fly. Today there are celebrations. Grandma is making the cup cake ice cream cones. We are also taking a bucket full of water balloons. In my day that would have been frowned upon, but it's alright this time. Go figure.
Little league is winding down to the last few games. Ballet classes are over for this season. But vacation Bible school is up next. Immediately after that is Kids camp. The Wesleyan church runs a camp for a week. The kids go every year and have a great time. They have there little bunk houses and dining hall. They keep those kids busy all the time. The kids( my son and his wife) are going to Virginia beach this year for their family vacation. I think that is in August. Grandma and Grandpa will be vacationing in Greensboro !
The pool is up and running. The barbecue grill is ready to roll. Camping trips are being discussed and fishing trips and crabbing trips. The summer should be packed full of activities. Still,I know I will hear at some point," I'm bored " there is nothing to do. Probably right after camp. Happens every year.
And so the cycle continues. January first may be the beginning of the new year on the calendar, but not for me. Years have always been marked by the beginning and ending of school years. As a kid in school,it was like that. After being married and having kids in school it was like that. With the Grand kids,it is like that. Any major plans have to scheduled around the school. If it is going to take more than a day, you need to wait.
Another year comes to a close tomorrow. As is always the case,the kids can't wait. Conversely, I will be sad. The kids are growing up too fast. Third grade and fifth grade. For the fifth grade it will be the last year of taking cupcakes and cookies. It will also be the last year for Grandparents day. (although I don't think he was real crazy about it this year). The last year,for a while,that the two of them will ride the bus together.
Well, I won't think about that till next year. Isn't that what Scarlett O'Hara would have said ? The end of the year and the start of another. Should be a great summer. Party at school today and award ceremonies tomorrow. Where does the time go ?

Gimme Room

Have you ever worked with a person that requires a lot of space? You know the type,papers spread out everywhere or their tools just everywhere. I have and it can be annoying. Yesterday,while working at the grocery the Pepsi vendor arrived to fill his stock. I hadn't seen this particular guy before. He started rolling in his products on his hand truck. Before long he had piles of Pepsi products stacked everywhere. He was busy going back and forth and generally getting underfoot at every turn. His constant,' excuse me ' was starting to grate on my nerves. He was one of those people that are so focused on their own task that they pay little or no attention to anyone around them. It is not that they are rude, but it is their nature. They just require a lot of space. They will have everything spread out in some "organized" fashion that only they understand. They can appear very busy ,while these piles of stuff actually seem to grow in size. After a while they dominate the entire area. This Pepsi representative eventually had two aisles blocked up in the store. In the back room of the store he had a pallet of product blocking things up. This person requires major space to operate. I suspect an entire warehouse would not satisfy his needs.
After about two hours he did get his product on the shelves. The aisles were cleared and the pallet in the back moved. I spoke with him briefly before he moved on to his next stop. His comment to me was, "boy,it sure is crowded in this store." I agreed that it could be a bit crowded at times. After he was gone, I couldn't help but think,bet he was one of those kids that took everything out of the toy box. He probably laid all of  his toys out and examined them, before deciding which one he wanted.
I am often amused or annoyed watching other people. It is interesting to see how others do things. It can be a learning experience. It can also be frustrating. Sometimes you just want to say." something " but know you should just keep quiet. Human behaviour can be fascinating. Sometimes, I wonder what people are thinking about me ! I'm sure there are some that are amused or annoyed by me. Each of us have our " little ways " of doing things.

A few more clues

Recently I got a few more clues that I may be aging. It isn't exactly the way I see it, but the premise may have some validity. All the time keeping in mind that time is relevant. A minute isn' too long, unless you are waiting for your turn in the bathroom !
I was at work at the grocery store. The cashiers are mostly young girls still in high school. It was the week of the Prom. They were talking about their dresses and plans. One of them was looking forward to graduation. I told them I graduated high school in 1971. One of the girls just got this look of astonishment on her face.She looked at me and half spoke,half whispered, my parents weren't even born then ! Well, that was a clue to me that perhaps,just perhaps I am getting a bit on in the years. I laughed and walked to the back room.
That gave me something to think about.
Later that same day we were again chatting it up a bit. When I casually mentioned the age of my son the response was, wow,he is twice my age ! Dang,guess he is. When did that kid get that old ? Other clue falling into place. Funny how time slips away.
They are a good bunch of kids. Typical teenagers I would say. I am over forty ( maybe a little older) so they think I'm a dinosaur. Sometimes they find the old guy amusing. When they were doing their history papers at least one asked me about the Vietnam war. It is in their history book. That's another clue too.
When you start reading about events that you not only witnessed but participated in, in high school history books ( third edition,copyright 1995) you may be getting old.

Get down,Cowboy

I don't spend a lot of time watching music videos. I will occasionally browse CMT when I don't see anything else of interest or if I'm doing something else and just want a little background noise. That was just the case the other day. I was working on the family tree,on the computer,and CMT was playing.
As I was pondering a record about a distant ancestor I happened to look at the television. There was this singer,I don't recall his name,wearing the typical cowboy hat and jeans. That certainly wasn't surprising but a few other things about him and his performance were. He had tattoos on his neck stretching all the way to his ears. His arms were covered with tattoos as well. His movements were like those from a Rap singer,complete with some weird finger signs. Watching this I wondered just what it was he was trying to be ? A country singer,rap star,or gangsta ? It was a confusing image. The song was a mixture as well. Not quite country,not quite Rap,in fact not quite anything I could describe.
Now I suppose it is an image thing. This singer is not the first and certainly not the last. The popular images change with time. Barbara Mandrell sang I was country,when country wasn't cool,and that was cool ! Then there was a swing the other way. Country singers have always been associated with being backwoods hicks. Cowboys aren't cool. Now they all want to be cool. Most of the newer ones sing songs more closely related to rock and rap music. They put forth the image of being hip,cool and a bunch of bad a***s. Although if you are a country star today you must say something about praising Jesus or supporting the service men. That's mandatory.
Oh,there are some good genuine country music stars out there. Myself,I prefer the old line country music. Heartache,drinking songs and momma. I understand it is all about selling records. Well not records exactly,what is it now downloads ? Whatever they are calling it , it is about making money. The producers push this stuff. Now we have rapping cowboys dancing like Michael Jackson in cowboy boots. Good grief !
Just when you think you have seen it all.
Just an observation of mine. I didn't do any big study on this and it is only my opinion but there is a pattern emerging here. White boys emulating Afro Americans in an attempt to be perceived as either hip or as a bad man. At first, bad white boys were bikers. James Dean wearing his tee shirt and leather jacket. Greasing his hair back. You know the image. Then sometime in the fifties,in conjunction with the civil rights movement,white boys started singing black music. Elvis was accused of that. Jerry Lee was too. Before long white boys started wearing clothing,shall we say,not typical of your average American white boy. Soon some white boys started using the expressions and terms used in the black community. " Yo bro, know what I'm sayin' ? "
It is a complicated issue. A sociologist could do a whole paper on this. What does it mean ? White folks acting like African Americans. Are they doing that because they like it or is something else behind it ? Maybe something that is not too flattering to the black community. Is being an African American associated with crime,violence and generally being a tough guy ? Is that the image ? I don't know I'm not a sociologist.
Well, the bottom line for me is I like things simple. I like country music. I enjoy the Blues. That good old time rock and roll is happening too. Just don't try to mix all three together into one very strange combination.
\I'm a white boy. Always have been and always will be. To try to look and act like anything else is just ridiculous ! I'm just old school I guess.
To each their own. We all have to listen to our own drummer. Rock on and be cool brother. Times change and so does fashion. I can only hope for a return to the basics in life. I'm sure that is what my parents thought about my tastes and their parents said about theirs. But,a gangsta' cowboy ? What's up with that ?

That's Entertainment

Yesterdays post was about Matt Dillon. I have done more thinking about that. The other shows that were popular at the same time were ,The Waltons,The Rifleman,The Big Valley,Bonanza,All in the Family,Mash,Hogans Heroes,Mork and Mindy among others.
All of these shows did share one thing in common. The stories always had a moral to them. Do the right thing and treat others with respect. Stand up for yourself and be independent.
Now it seems to me the popular shows are about crime or becoming a star. If there isn't some young beautiful woman running around with a gun busting drug dealers,they are doing autopsies. There are a slew of these shows and the big attraction is violence. Violence,fast cars and big money.
The other bunch of shows are about becoming a star. Singing ,dancing or whatever. You can be a star. Easy money. A path to fame and fortune. And the other shows where you can win the big prize by being the most deceitful contestant. Back stabbing is rewarded. Lying is a good thing. Win,by any means necessary.
If the popular television shows are the reflection of society you can't help but draw the conclusion; we are in trouble !
Not that these behaviours did not exist before but we didn't applaud them. They certainly weren't a form of entertainment. I'm no psych major but I think these shows must have some effect upon behaviour. I tried to emulate my TV heroes. Who is there to emulate today ? Even the good guys are portrayed negatively on occasion. Never happened in years past. That is what made them heroes. Was it realistic ? Of course not. It was a fantasy world. It was entertainment.
The good guys always won. The bad people were held accountable and paid the price. Justice was served. Right was right and wrong was wrong. No exceptions or excuses. No high paid lawyer was going to save your butt. A decent lawyer wouldn't even take your case. The lesson was clear. Do the right thing,always !
Even if it cost you everything, do what is right. Personal wants and needs take a back seat. As Spock in Star Trek put it logicaly, The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few,or the one.
All those shows left me with a good feeling. The righteous are rewarded. These shows now just leave me wondering,Why ?

Matt Dillon

I'm writing this a bit early. It is Friday night. Normally,I write my blog first thing in the morning but I just learned that James Arness of Gunsmoke fame has passed away. My initial reaction was; Matt has joined Kitty for good.
I loved the show Gunsmoke. Matt Dillon,U.S.Marshall. The man. A towering figure of a man . Never swayed by anything other than the truth. You could not bribe him,lie to him,sweet talk him, or fool him. A man of undying principal. Loyal.Trustworthy.A friend.If you were going to fight that was the man you wanted on your side.His judgement was impeccable.His nerve unshakable.Fearless.Compassionate.Merciful.He was Matt.
I am not one much for heroes.To me,they are far and few between.I am not much for celebrities either. Growing up where I did I saw a few.Never collected autographs. Some celebrities I would like to meet and others I could care less. Take it or leave it,that's my attitude. After all,they are just people.
I grew up with Matt Dillon. He loved Miss Kitty. You knew that. It was just- a fact ! Unless you are a die hard fan you would be hard pressed to tell of a single scene where he acknowledged that. You would be hard pressed to recall a single episode where Matt ever held her hand. Miss Kitty poured Matt a few beers and asked him to reconsider before a Gunfight but that was as close as it got.Kitty was a tough girl and we appreciated that.She could be all frills and lace but no nonsense.Matt was the man!
That is what I grew up with.That is what I thought a man should be.Matt Dillon was a shining example of manhood.For twenty years, that show was the model.Toby Keith even wrote a song about it.
The relationship between Matt and Kitty was implied. Unlike today's shows where everything is shown in detail, that was left to the viewers imagination.You knew that Matt loved Miss Kitty.Miss Kitty loved Matt.They were equals.Matt was the example of what all men should be. Miss Kitty was a lady through and through.Matt saw her in that light despite her implied past.
It was just a fictional story in a fictional town.Characters on TV.But it was also a social conscience.Instructions for living.Matt never killed anyone that didn't need killing ! He stood for everything that was good and just in the world.Relentless in his pursuit of justice.He was loved and admired by everyone.I'm thinking if we could get these kids today to watch a few episodes of Gunsmoke it might clear up some of the social issues we are having.Then follow that up with a season or two of the Waltons !
Rest in Peace Mr. Arness.I'm sure Miss Kitty has a beer waiting for you. You can finaly walk off into the sunset hand in hand. That was the way I always thought the show would end.

Sounds in the Night

When I was a small boy growing up on Long Island we lived in a corner of Northwest woods. These woods were my " Hundred Acre Woods " just like in the Winnie the Pooh stories. I ran and played throughout these woods. Had tree forts and underground forts. Foot paths leading to different locations. I pretty much knew all the territory within a quarter of a mile of home. When you are a little, a quarter of a mile is a good distance away. You can still hear Mom calling though.
I was familar with most of the local fauna. I knew what animals were about. There were deer in those woods. I always made too much noise so I never saw them,unless at a good distance. They were the largest animal in the wood. There are no poisionious snakes to worry about. As far as woods go,pretty safe environment. You did need to check for ticks though. I had 'em aplenty. I can remember them starting to burrow into your skin. Dad would light a match and then blow it out.While it was still hot he would quickly press it against your skin where the ticks head was. That tick would back out,quick. Snatch him up and flush him down the toliet. That was the standard procedure.
In the early evening,just after dark,you would hear the whipporwills start. Now a whipporwill is nothing more than a small bird.Not much larger than a Robin.They are nocturnal and fly around eating insects. When I was a small child I didn't know that. I had an irrational fear of them as well. I don't recall ever seeing one, but I heard them alright. That lonesome call scared the beJesus outa me. To this day I have no idea way that is. My older brothers would push me outside and lock the door. I can remember standing on the porch just a hollerin'.They ,of course,thought it was hilarious. Aren't older siblings wonderful ?
At some point this fear passed. I came to like the sound of the Whipporwill. I still do but I have never heard one here in Greensboro. I have only seen pictures of them. Never have I seen one in the wild. Elusive little rascals. Haven't spent much time looking for one either.

katy-did

The other sound in the evening I particuraly enjoy is a katy-did. I've seen plenty of Katy-dids. I've listened to them for hours saying,katy-did,katy-didn't,katy-did,katy-didn't. Only the male katy-dids make this sound. It is to attract a mate. Some katy-dids did because there are a whole lot of them around. Katy-didn't aren't as popular. A little backwoods humor there ! (very little) I haven't heard any katy-dids here either,come to think of it. The hotter the nights got ,the more of them you would hear. They are in the cricket family.
Where I live in Greensboro I mostly hear the feral cats  at night. All that noise. I do hear tree frogs. The night sounds are not the same as Northwest Woods that is for sure. I miss those sounds.

Running Behind

It's Civil war week on the history channel. I stayed up late,for me,to watch some programming. As a result I got up later than usual. I slept in to almost six o'clock. Must think I'm keeping bankers hours or something. My whole daily schedule is out of whack now. What was I thinking ? I really should get one of those DVR things I hear my son talking about. But then I would have to program it and that would stress me out. What programs to record,when to program them and when could I watch them if I did record them. I'd have to rearrange my whole schedule. No,I'd better leave well enough alone.
My wifes' sister is coming for a visit this weekend. It will be a pleasure to spend time with her. I have been blessed to have a sister in law that I actually love and get along with. Others are not so fortunate. So,her coming is no problem. There are preparations to be made however. This late start of mine is not helping. My son and his wife have concert tickets this weekend so we will also be watching the grandchildren. They are leaving Saturday morning and will not return until Sunday night. No big deal, but more logistics to work out. And I'm running late.
Logically it makes no sense that I should feel rushed. I overslept about an hour and that time will not make a difference. In the real world,at least my world, I will feel rushed the rest of the day. I'll be anxious. My mind racing ahead to all the things coming up. Joan,the sister-in-law,will be here Friday afternoon. What will we have for dinner,what is the weather going to do ? Will get the kids Saturday morning and need to entertain them. Maybe,we will all go fishing or crabbing. Where are the poles and nets. Does everyone have a license ? So much to think about ? I'll need to take the kids to church Sunday morning. I think Morgan has her final Girl Scout meeting this weekend too. The weekend is fast approaching. Need to hurry !
Oh man,I'm feeling stressed. I'll just drink another cup of coffee and relax.That should work. Hope I don't drink too much coffee,that can be bad. So many things to do and so little time to do it. Need to fix Marks' bicycle for him too. The grass needs cutting. And I think there is something I'm forgetting ?
All this because I stayed up too late and overslept. You would think I would know better. That history channel is going to be my downfall yet.

Sleep Drunk

The last few days have been hot and humid. It is an early start on what should prove to be a long, hot ,summer. Everyone is talking and complaining about it.I remember wishing for this heat not too long ago. I'll take the heat anytime, over bitter cold. The cold will keep me inside but the heat will not. I may seek shade, but I'll go out. In winter ,with the bitter cold,I seek warmth and that can only be found inside.
I like hearing the many descriptions of the conditions. It's close out there ! Boy,is it muggy. The air is thick today. Whew,some humid today. It's sticky. It's hazy. It's hot. It's mighty still. The air is dry.The air is parched. It's a scorcher. Ain't fit for man nor beast. And a slew of others.
The weather is a condition we all share. A common ground for conversation. We are not really complaining,just making conversation. It is summer(almost) and I expect it to be hot and humid. That is the natural order of things. I can only hope the weather doesn't spawn destructive storms like the ones we have already seen in the mid-west. Afternoon thunderstorms are to be expected.
When I was young our home,like most others,did not have air conditioning. We didn't have central air or window units. Fans were the order of the day. In the evening, after having gone to bed, I would often just lie there wide awake;the covers thrown back and sprawled out trying to catch a breeze of any kind.  A light sweat would form over your body and just make things miserable. I can remember just saying out load, Boy,is it muggy ! My sister across the hall would respond and we would get to laughing. Both of us,wide awake but tired. Unable to get to sleep because of the conditions, we would get sleep drunk. Every phrase we said was a reason for laughter. You know what I mean ? Just like little kids get so silly when they are tired. This laughter could go on for an hour or more. Mom and Dad would be hollering, you guys be quiet. which of course led to more laughter. Some nights we would get up and go outside. We would just sit on the porch steps and talk. Or you might just listen to the tree frogs and katie-dids.
Some of my fondest memories are nights like those. We sat and laughed and complained about the weather. We had fun. We didn't know we were having fun but we did. Eventualy we would go back to bed. It wasn't any cooler or less uncomfortable but we had laughes ourselves silly. So finaly exhausted,we could sleep. Ah,those were good days.