I used Ta !

When we were young we would adopt the latest phrases and put them in our vocabulary. Phrases like,that's cool,I'm hip,I know where you're coming from. We stayed on top of those trends too. After a while we tend not to do that anymore. I guess we just get comfortable with our expressions. Soon the phrases we are using are so outdated the younger people give us funny looks. They think we're square ,man. I don't think anyone says that anymore. Some expressions in common usage today I just don't like. Strike me as a bit vulgar.
I think for most of us, along about thirty or so, are speech patterns and expressions are pretty well set. If we use the newest slang we usually do so,tongue in cheek. I'm down with that and all that jazz. It evens feels funny to use them,like we are breaking some social taboo. Or,it just feels foolish,at least for me it does. Not a teenager anymore and won't pretend to be.
Then the Grand children come along. Now, they already figure you are older than dirt. They already think you talk funny and say funny things. You talk about things from the History books,in the first person ! And then you notice it.
A new phrase creeping into your vocabulary; I used Ta ! Like when the Grand children want you to play on the floor. You do, but you remember when you used ta, be able to get back up. Yes, Grandpa used Ta dance. I used Ta jump rope and play hopscotch too. The grand kids always look at you like,yeah, sure you did ! There were a lot of things I used Ta do that I no longer choose to do. Not that I couldn't do them anymore,I choose not too ! That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
This little phrase has crept in and was brought to my attention by my sister in law. She noticed she was using it a lot too. Thank you Joan for bringing it to my attention. I used Ta notice things like that all by myself. Well,we all could use a helping hand now and then. Why I used Ta,----- never mind. LOL

Misunderstood ?

In the writing of these blogs I have discovered it is much harder to express ones feelings in the third party. Personal interaction being absent certainly complicates it. Without the other person or persons being able to see the expression on your face or hear the tone in your voice the meaning often becomes jumbled.
A great writer can overcome those obstacles, but alas I'm not a great writer. Sometimes the message I'm trying to convey gets lost along the way. I apologize for that. It is my desire to put down my thoughts and memories for a future generation to read. It would be great if they could actually understand what it is I'm trying to say. My sense of humor is not always what you would call mainstream.
I will not let any of this deter me,however. I will keep pecking away at the keyboard. With practice comes improvement. Like any skill, writing needs to be developed. A style must be found. Maybe I should avoid the humor as it seems to get me in trouble. Just sticking with the facts may be better but seems a bit boring to me. Meat and Potatoes need a little spice. Censorship of any kind rubs me the wrong way.
I also find it sometimes takes me a long time to get to the point. On occasion I never do get there. I admit I have never read the entire manuscript of War and Peace. Did it take him that long to get to the point ? My typing skills leave a lot to be desired so I often run out of patience with that before I finish my thought.
Nevertheless, I will persevere.
I find it a difficult thing to express in words; feelings. The way one feels about things. An explanation of why you feel that way is required and there are those times when you can not explain that,even to yourself. There are those that " have a way with words " and then there are the others. I'm the others. I enjoy the writing of words though and I think that is the main thing. Isn't that true about everything you do ? I play the guitar,not well,but just enjoy doing it. Sports,games and other distractions from life. I enjoy them all.
I'll keep writing,you keep reading. Maybe one day you'll understand what it is I'm trying to say.

You never know

I've started down a different path. It is not a path I have consciously chosen and I'm not sure how long I've been on it. Sitting here staring at my computer screen I just became aware of it. I sensed something was different and it just occurred to me, a new path.
Thinking about it I guess this new path started about the time I was laid off from work. That would be a couple years now. Oh, I work part time but do not have a full time job anymore. Many applications and very few interviews later I'm still looking. Not many want to hire a 58 year old man. In several cases I was " overqualified " whatever that is supposed to be. I just think of it as, I'm too smart for'em and let it be. (LOL)
Shortly after that I quit smoking cigarettes. I had been meaning to do that and now I had the time. Not being around other smokers and out of the " mans" world helped out. That was a step. Another step,and this took some time,was getting over the anger at being let go. I had a million reasons why I shouldn't have been. Some where valid and some were not. It just took time to reach the conclusion that the reason really doesn't matter at all. I was chosen to be let go and that was that. There is a song on the radio now and there is one line in it I particularly like. It says, I never liked the taste of crow but I ate it. I understand that exactly !
Writing this blog is another step down a different path. Putting thoughts and memories to print. What I write here is permanent,to a point. If I put it out there I can't deny it later. I could write a rebuttal and claim momentary Alzheimer's or something but it is there.
And finally I joined the Historical Society. A step down a different road for sure. I have long talked about the need to save the old ways. The importance of preserving the past. Well now I'm going to help in a tangible way. Instead of just running my mouth I am taking action. It feels good too.
Forces beyond my control have sent me down this path. Forces beyond my control will continue to push me along as well. I'm enjoying this path so far. You just never know,do you ?

Instruction

It came into my possession through my mother. Originally it was the possession of my  Great Grandmother. It was her Bible. There inscribed on the inside cover it said," Lucy Terry. From A.M.King. Christmas 1890. "
A.M.King is Abraham Miller King her grandfather and my Great Great Great Grandfather. This Bible along with another, inscribed and dated 1924, are in a plastic zip lock baggie.
Great Grandmother passed when I was just three years old. She raised my father, as his Mother passed shortly after giving birth to him. I have a few faded photographs of her and stories that my father told me. I knew my Great Grandfather well but he never spoke of her. What the reason for that was I don't know. Maybe I just never asked.
Anyway,although this Bible was in a plastic baggie it was not sealed shut. It had been sitting in the attic for some time. One day as I was cleaning up I saw it and brought it downstairs. I placed it on the corner on my bedroom dresser.
It sat there for a while until one day I decided to take it out of the bag for a look. The book mark was still in place at what I can only assume was the last place she was reading. My father told me she read a little bit of the Bible every day. Also in the pages was a hand made card from my Father to her dated 1931.
As I looked at this Bible a old Hank Williams song came to mind. Most people probably haven't heard it,it wasn't a big hit in the Honky Tonks. The title of this song is, " Dust on the Bible."
It is a story song. He starts by saying he went to a friends house and while he was waiting for them he looked for a Bible but couldn't find one. The next verse goes something like this," I asked them for the Bible when they brought it what a shame,for the dust was covered o'er it,not a fingerprint was plain.
I looked at this dust covered Bible in my hands and felt shame.
The chorus came to mind," Dust on the Bible,Dust on the Holy word,the words of all the prophets and the sayings of our lord.
How often do we forget and just put our Bible aside ? We all need it and yet we let them sit and collect dust.
In another verse he says," Of all the other books you'll find,there's none salvation holds,get the dust of the Bible and redeem your poor soul.

The Book

The Inscription

Great Grandmothers Bible is old,dusty and worn. It is fragile to hold. I think however I will make a point to open its' pages and read. Instructions do no good if not read. And I think Great Grandmother would be pleased.

Up with the chickens

Time and Place influence everything. I was raised in a different time and a different place. The time was the late fifties to the late sixties. Those were the formative years for me. The place was East Hampton on Long Island in New York State. Now a lot of folks think New York is New York City but that couldn't be farther from the truth. It is a fact that New York City is about 100 miles west of East Hampton, but to us it may as well have been a thousand.
Potato farmers and fishermen were the main population. A mixture of the Gloucester fishermen and sod busters ! Hard living,hard working people. A little bit clannish and very opinionated. A time and place when men were men and expected to behave that way. Those that didn't conform were tolerated alright but eyed with suspicion.
My father was raised there and his father before him. Both were alternatively fishermen and tradesmen. If they weren't fishing they might be repairing automobiles,building houses ,doing plumbing or marine mechanics. They were hard men. They worked hard and played hard. In keeping with the time and place they tended to enjoy smoking cigarettes and drinking. It was what was expected. An occasional fight wasn't out of the question either.
During this time the legal drinking age in New York state was 18. I graduated from high school and soon thereafter turned 18. I was to leave for the Navy soon as well. Naturally I wanted to try out this drinking stuff. I had had a few sips before ,when no one was watching,but now I was legal. There were a few legendary establishments I just had to try. Maggies,Jungle Petes,Smugglers Cove and Albies to name a few. In the first two my Dad was fairly well known from years gone by. He still stopped in on occasion, but it would be late afternoon and he didn't stay long. Those days for him had passed.
Like most young men I went at it with gusto. The bowling alley was another hot spot back in the day. It was there that I discovered rum and coke. Went down smooth enough and I drank my fill. Things were a lot different back then. I drove home. No one would question that back then. The bartender wasn't concerned that he would be sued,your friends didn't want to confront you about your ability to drive and that was it. Luckily I managed to make it home without hurting anyone or anything. I made quite a bit of noise getting into the house and going to bed. Before I knew it my father was standing over me and hollering," get up " " there is work to be done ". It was morning already ! Oh man, I don't feel so good. My father wasn't what you would call sympathetic. Then he offered some advice.
If you want to fly with the eagles,you have to learn to get up with the chickens !
That is all he said about that. I got up and went to work with him. I'm sure he was chuckling the whole time too. I'd like to say I learned my lesson that first time but that wouldn't be accurate. I did have a few other occasions where I did a little too much flying. I can say ,however, that I never missed getting up with the chickens ! In today's world this whole story would be looked at in a different light altogether. Time and Place,Time and Place. The lesson is still true. That will never change.

The Little Things

As I'm sure we have all heard before ,it is the little things in life that make it worth living. I've always felt this to be true. Sunday, I rediscovered this truth. You see, the wife and I were doing a little home decorating. We went to the store to buy some new mini blinds and valances for our living room. It was time to change it up just a little. As usual, one thing lead to another and we found ourselves putting up some additional shelves, dusting,rearranging pictures and knick knacks.
Somewhere along the way we decided an additional trip to the store was necessary. Just a few little carpets for the kitchen should finish up. While we were looking at those I noticed a little kitchen clock. It was shaped like an apple. My wife mentioned she would like to replace the clock in the kitchen as it was all white and we had had it for quite some time. It functioned just fine but it was time (no pun intended) for a change. The apple clock seemed perfect to me. The cost was certainly reasonable, five dollars. How could you go wrong with that?Our purchases made, we went home.
 The remaining chores were completed and we were both pleased with the results. Our little home was brightened up a bit. The small changes made a difference. The apple clock was hung in place of the drab white one. Looks good !

It has been a full day now and I smile when I see the apple clock. That is a good sign. I think I'll be enjoying that little ray of sunshine for some time to come. Little things like that can really make a difference. It's like I always tell my wife, I'm not hard to please. You just never know where lifes little pleasures may come from next.

Sprawl

We have all heard about it. We know it is insidious. We dread it,yet some embrace it. Sprawl !
Just saw in the newspaper,yes I still read those,that Walmart is going to build a store in Denton,Md. That is only about seven miles from Greensboro. They already have one in Easton ,Md about twenty miles away. There are two in Delaware less then 45 minutes from here. It's sprawl I tell you. And it is fueled by greed. With no concern for the Mom and Pop stores and other independently owned shops they are moving in. The economic impact will be significant.
I know;jobs will be created and it will boost the economy. At least that is the line they are using. I'm not buying it.
It was bad enough when they hung that second stop light here in town. Now,a walmart right in my backyard. Time to think about moving. I've seen this trend before. Let's move to the country. Fresh air and open spaces. Peace and quiet. The quaint little stores. Minimal traffic. Soon however these same people (city folks mostly) want their theaters,fancy restaurants,malls and conveniences. Before you know what happened, you are in the city ! Sprawl. I hate it.
Since moving here twenty some years ago I have already noticed the decline in that country living. Farms being sold to housing development corporations. The chain stores edging out the little stores. The town hardware store,history. No 5&10 cent stores or little local shops. The drug store is holding on for now but what impact will Walmart have on that ? Sprawl ! It is slowly creeping into Greensboro. I can sense it and I don't like it. You can't stop it however. Ideology and those good old family values will lose out to the almighty dollar. They always do. It is a shame but nothing stays the same. Soon we can close the few remaining stores and open them back up as boutiques. Buy some hundred dollar underwear or a five dollar cup of coffee. Sprawl !
Then the locals( those here for a few years) will sit sipping Lattes and reminiscing about how it used to be. The really old families will be long gone. The property sold off and the children living in another section of the country.
Oh,I've been seeing the signs. First was " Cindys " fast food and gasoline store. Goose Creek built a store right across the street that spelled the end. Last year that same place put up one of those digital gas prices signs. Stupid thing up there glowing in the dark, looks like downtown Manhattan. Then they widen the main highway to four lanes. Why some restaurants even have tables outside on the sidewalk ! What do they think this is, Paris or something ?
Sprawl ! What would Horace Greely have to say ? Wouldn't be,go west young man,because that has already been sprawled into extinction. I frequently talk about moving to the mountains some where. I may have to give that thought more serious consideration. I understand it is progress and all but I don't like it.

Looking North on Main Street,Greensboro,Md.

There are those that would say I'm a chicken little but I don't care. I have seen this sprawl destroy other places and it is headin' my way. Why,just imagine, we already have two traffic lights ! Before you know it we will have one of them there traffic circles !

For Good

Was listening to some tunes, as I often do. I listen to a wide variety of music. If I like it ,I like it. Happened to be listening to Merle Haggard. The Hag. The Okie from Muskogie. Some would say a real redneck and country boy. I was listening to his song; Are the good times really over for good.
A song that speaks to me on a personal level. If you were born in 1953 or thereabouts it probably does to you too.
The chorus says," I wish a ford and  a chevy would still last ten years like they should,is the best of the free life behind us now, and are the good times really over for good ? "
This song was recorded in 1983. Twelve years after I graduated from high school. I had already gone from, knowing it all, to just learning about life. The times were hard. Merle was telling it like it was. I wasn't listening to him much at the time. Later I diversified my listening.
I particularly like this song for it's optimism. The final chorus ends with," the best of the free life is still yet to come and the good times aren't over for good. "
Songs and Singers have always been a part of my life. I expect they are to most everyone. They can say what you are thinking. Each life has a soundtrack to accompany it. Some songs have deep meanings to you and others are just fun. They can take you back in time and transport you to another place. We have all had that experience. A song comes on the radio and "  bam " you are at the coffee shop. Places and events are associated with these songs and they are often remembered even when other thoughts are lost to time.
The type or Genre of music you listen to is often associated with your lifestyle. Rock and Roll, Blues, Jazz,Pop and classical to name a few. They each come and go in popularity. I remember when Country music was considered Cowboy Music and only cowboys listened to that stuff. Honky Tonks,drinking and Mama. Been pretty popular here as of late. Classical is associated with intelligence and high breeding, the snooty crowd.
As for me I listen to just about everything. It all depends upon my mood and surroundings. The soundtrack of my life would definately be a mix ! Might be interesting to try to put that together some day.

A few Axioms

Never borrow money to eat, makes you lazy and unwilling to work.

Don't lend your tools,you'll not get them back or you'll have to chase after them.

If you don't have something nice to say,don't say anything.

God helps those who help themselves. And that doesn't mean stealing !

Smile in public,frown in private.

Money can't buy happiness but it can provide a distraction.

Idle Hands do the Devils' work.

If you can't dazzle them with brilliance,baffle them with bull*#it !

Don't put off until tomorrow,what you can do today.

Company is like fish,after three days it begins to stink !

It is far better to speak with your heart, than to speak your mind.

Keep moving, it is harder to hit a moving target.

I heard these and more growing up. I found the majority of them to be true. Words to live by.

Just Sayin'

I'm not much of a believer in fortune telling or predicting the future. I find it amusing and of general interest from that standpoint. I do believe only one man knows the future and he ain't telling.
I have heard that the Mayans say the world will end in 2012. They even made a calender to say so. To some " scholars " that is proof enough. See, it is right there on the calender ! End of world. I'm not buying it.
There is some speculation just where these Mayan people went. They left their pyramids in the jungle and seem to have disappeared. Well, I found them. They are right here in Greensboro and the surrounding area. I see them all the time and they look just like the depictions in those old National Geographic magazines. Short stocky people with a sloping forehead. The men are quite muscular and the females often with child. Don't confuse them with the other Hispanic population,they are distinctly different. Generally they are a quiet people,saying little,but there eyes take in everything. Rarely do you see one alone,as they prefer to travel in large groups.
I don't know why but I find them unsettling in some way. I suspect they are secretly building a pyramid somewhere,preparing for blood sacrifices. There is just something sneaky about them. I don't trust them. You hear about illegal aliens all the time. Aliens are often associated with those Mayans too. Some say,the aliens built those pyramids ! Maybe,just maybe, the aliens both legal and illegal, are the Mayans ! Or the Mayans are the aliens. There is something definitely strange going on there.
 There are similarities. Aliens are short,everybody knows that. Aliens have dark eyes,usually black with very little pupils,and aliens get transported by mysterious means. More Mayans get out of a mini van than a city bus ! That is just a fact.
The part I can't figure out is this. If the world is going to end in 2012 why did the Mayans show up in Greensboro as migrant farm workers ? What's the angle there. Are they attempting to control the vegetable market ? Why ? I just don't know but I'm keeping my eye on that bunch !
It could all be nothing but it pays to be aware. I'm just sayin'.
And one more thought. The Mayans" disappeared " but are back ! Must have something to do with the space/time continum thing.

Shoppers

I just love watching people. I should have been a sociologist or something like that. Other peoples' attitudes and behaviours fascinate me. I can't help but wonder about them. The ones that closely resemble my own actions I understand fine,others not so much. Working at the grocery store gives me unlimited opportunity to "observe."
I have noticed there are several types of shoppers. There are the," in and outers,"" the browsers,"" the take your timers" and the "power shoppers." There are subsets to each of these groups as well. Having worked there for a while now, I am getting familiar with the regular customers. Even have nicknames for a few of them. Things like, the cat lady and the family of hillbilly's. Casual descriptions that we all recognize.
There is a sub set to the" take your timers" that I call the readers. These people read all the labels and study the dates on the product. Frequently they will burrow to the very rear of the product display to try to gain an extra day on the shelf life. I get it with milk or eggs but canned goods have shelf lives in the years. Just how long do they think they are gong to keep that stuff ?
The group I don't like are the power shoppers. They enter the store like an invading army. Their focus is on getting the product,at all costs. Women and children to the back, I'm coming through. They are so focused they rarely notice anything or anyone else. They will reach over your shoulder,nudge you out of the way and drive that shopping cart like a tank on the battlefield. Rude,obnoxious people.
Another group that I find interesting is the "the browsers." This bunch may spend an hour or more looking at the products offered. Rarely do they purchase more than a few items at any one time. Many come back to the store on a daily basis. They examine the product and I suppose weigh it's merits against the other products. They don't necessarily read the label but I think judge it on visual appeal or perhaps the packaging. This group will move your product around the store though. Often they select an item,put it in their cart and change their opinion a few aisles away. The product has been relocated.
The "in and outers" are the best. They come prepared. Most have a list and stick with it. These are no nonsense people. Usually pleasant enough and polite ,they are still determined. They are there to perform a task. Restock the supplies and get on with it. No fooling around,get er' done. They usually don't complain about anything and quickly adapt to what products are available. Unlike a "power shopper" a detour or distraction doesn't send them into a fit.
There is one more group I haven't mentioned. The "complainers." The prices are too high,the store temperature is too low,the aisles are too narrow,the shelves are too high,the selection isn't varied enough,we don't carry the brand they want and it goes on and on. Some of these people are our regular customers ! You would think they would know by now. I have learned to just smile and agree. Yes Ma'am,you got that right ! I'll tell the manager about it right away ! Certainly. You know,you've got a point there,have a nice day.
Me, I'm an "in and outer."

It's my Birthday

Today is my birthday. It is the 58th time I will celebrate the beginning of this journey we call life.  Not that old, but getting there.
As anyone that has read previous postings of mine knows, I'm into genealogy. I am grateful I'm not the Grandparents or Great Grand Parents as there life expectancy was much shorter than mine. For the Great Grandparents, fifty eight would have been considered quite old. They did age faster back then. I believe it was a combination of hard work and poor medical care. They literally worked themselves to death.
To me it is just another day. A day of note however. One can look at it as one more year gone by, or the beginning of another. I choose the later. I get to start another year. Another chance to get it right ! A world of opportunity open before me. I can draw upon past experience to perhaps make better choices. We are conditioned to think about Jan 1 being the beginning of the year but it is not so. That is only a convenient way to measure time for all to understand. My year begins on July the twentieth. I live summer to summer.
If you believe in astrology my sign is Cancer the Crab. Not too crazy about the cancer part but I do like crabs ! Then, I do steam and eat them ,so not sure what that is saying. My element is water. That is a mixed thing though. I am not a good swimmer at all and prefer staying on the surface. Probably why I joined the Navy. People have said it to me more times than I can remember. " You were in the Navy and can't swim ?" My response was always the same," hence the boat. "
I share a birthday with some famous people too. Carlos Santana for one. He was born in 1947 and took all the guitar talent then,that's why I can't play so well. Thanks Carlos ! Natalie Wood was born on the twentieth. Sir Edmund Hillary was born on the twentieth and scaled Mt. Everest. I don't like the cold.
In 1963 there was a solar eclipse. I watched it through a peep hole in a shoe box.
I had a childhood friend that shared  this birthday with me. He lived right down the road from me,next door to my Aunt. I would play with him occasionally but we had little in common. He was quite bookish and not very athletic. I was not quite as academically inclined and loved playing baseball. We did share some good times together. I have lost track of him over the years but think of him every year. Happy Birthday, Barry.
And so another year in my life has gone by. It has been a good one and I have no complaints. I'm happy and healthy. Not much more you can ask for. When I was sixteen my sister gave me a real birthday party. Only one I ever had. Mom always made me a cake and we had ice cream. The family sang and I blew out the candles. That was it.
Oh, I almost forgot. On July 20,1969 man set foot on the moon for the first time. I had a commemorative coin that was ordered off the back of a box of cereal but it was lost somewhere. Wish I still had that.

me at 58 or is it 25 ?

Somewhere I have a picture with Barry and I at our joint birthday party. I was five and don't remember attending. Spent some time looking for it but can't seem to locate it at the moment. It would be the only picture I can say for sure that was taken on my birthday. Think I'll get the wife to take one today.

Living Loud

Ever notice how some people are just loud. They speak loud,they walk loud,they laugh loud and when in a crowd they get louder ! I think it must be their way of gaining attention. If engaged in conversation with multiple parties they will speak louder and louder until they are shouting. They are just noisy people.
At first I thought it was just a cultural thing. Certain ethnic groups tend to be louder than others. But it goes beyond that. Attitude plays a part and social standing as well. I'm sure a sociologist would have some comment about this and someone has probably already done a study. I don't think we need all that,just the awareness that it exists is enough.
I don't much care to be with a crowd. More than six people to me is a crowd. I especially don't like noisy crowds. Gives me a headache. I certainly don't want to shout to be heard. I much prefer everyone talking in turn and allowing others to complete their thought before interjecting their opinions. I fail to see how you can have a meaningful discussion while shouting. Guess that is why I wouldn't make much of a politician. I much prefer one on one conversation and don't enjoy speech making.
These " loud " people always take over the room. There may be several groups but by sheer noise they will dominate. Often I will leave the room to get away from that. I can never tell if they are just talking or getting ready to throw down ! Makes me nervous and on edge. And you find them everywhere. And now with the advent of cell phones they don't even have to be together. They are loud on the phone !
Some of it may be hearing loss. I wouldn't discount that, but not in all cases. These loud talkers have sensitive ears. They hear the slightest whisper from any other group concerning them. Then they become vocal about that.
The loud people are everywhere and becoming more and more aggressive. The two things go hand in hand. Scream,holler and shout to be heard. Makes no difference what you are talking about,talk loud.
These same people cannot enter or exit a room without making a lot of noise. Slamming doors,bumping into things and stomping feet are just a few of the things you can expect. Most feel it necessary to announce their arrival or departure to the entire room. They will cause a disruption you can be sure of that.
There is no point I'm trying to make here. It is just an observation of mine. Seinfeld could have made it into a funny little bit. Some people are just loud !
As for me, I want a little piece and quiet. A polite conversation among friends.
If I want loud,I'll go to a rock concert ! Could just as well go to a Country Music show but that is another topic altogether.

Slow down

The other day, as I read a friends blog a thought came to mind. Often times that happens, as I suppose that was the intent of the author. I got to thinking about how fast everything is now a days. Oh,I know people have been saying that since the clock was invented but it really is so. We,as people,want it now.
Evidence ; a couple of commercials. It's my money and I want it now ! Download music,movies or digital files,All in a Snap ! How many commercial promise instant satisfaction ?
The item I read was about the possibility of getting a smart phone with internet access. My daughter in law has this device and updates her facebook status with it. sends photos in real time,and I'm not sure what else.
I've got nothing against technology but maybe we should just slow down a little. Maybe,just maybe, some of today's drama could be avoided by slowing down and tempering our thoughts and reactions just a bit. By sharing every little mood that hits us, or retelling every real or perceived slight, are we not adding fuel to the fire ?
I'm just an old fashioned guy. I enjoy waiting for a letter or card to come in the mail. The anticipation of an event is more times than not better than the actual event. Like when you were a kid waiting for the carnival to come to town or waiting for Santa to arrive. An awful lot of that is lost now. E-mail,text messaging and cell phone calls. Santa Claus is liable to show up at anytime,anywhere. It is a continual barrage of instant gratification ! You want it,you got it ! Right Now ! Don't have enough cash to buy that item ? No problem. Swipe that card,charge it,get it instantly. No waiting.
As my mother is prone to saying," people don't appreciate things anymore." I tend to agree with her. When you get everything you want instantly with little or no effort some of the value is lost. I'd like to tell you how I worked and saved for that first car or something but I didn't. I have no great tale of sacrifice to share. I do know however that I was taught to appreciate the things I had. Just because my toys were broken they didn't get replaced. I didn't get everything I wanted. Any loss I suffered as a result of my own carelessness or neglect was just that. My fault. As a result I learned to appreciate things.
But I'm wandering down another path,back to the point. What I trying to say is maybe we should try waiting a few minutes to assess the situation before reacting. What is it, stop and smell the roses ? Better still, plant them and wait for them to grow and bloom. Then you will truly appreciate the smell.
Could be some Chinese person already said that but not to my knowledge. If so,give them the credit. No copyright infringement intended.

Something to consider

Like most of you I wondered about my name. Why did they name me Austin Bennett Reichart Jr. Well,the story is really simple. Dad was out of the room when the doctor asked what name to put on the birth certificate. That is what I was always told. I don't remember my father ever offering any alternatives. He always just said that is what happened. I asked him how he got his name. Now ,that story, is a little better.
First I need to explain a few things. My father was Austin Bennett Reichart.  He never used that name but instead was always called Ben. He told me on several occasions he just didn't like the name Austin. His middle name was Bennett. My mothers maiden name was Bennett. Just a coincidence,the Bennett name is no way connected as far as I have been able to determine. My mother also lived almost directly across the street from my father when they were growing up.
She also tells me she didn't like him much back then either. They were not childhood sweethearts or anything like that. In fact,my father is my Moms second husband.
So,as a child I thought about all this coincidence stuff. Her last name is Dads' middle name ? His name is Austin but everyone calls him Ben. Everybody calls me little Ben or Benny. I get named Jr. because Dad is out to lunch and he don't like it. Just where did this Austin Bennett stuff come from ?
The story I heard was that my grandfather had a good friend named Austin Bennett. This was just something my Mom heard, I guess from Dad or maybe one of the Grandparents. You see Grandfather Reichart passed away when he was 32. My father was eight years old at the time so doesn't really remember him much. Grandmother passed shortly after giving birth to him. He was raised by his maternal grandparents and I don't believe there was much contact between the two families afterward.
All these years later I have been working on the family tree. I have discovered who my Grandparents and great grandparents and their parents were. After many years of research I found my Great Grandmother and her family. I discovered where they lived all those years ago. On the census record,there in black and white,listed as a neighbor is a man named, Austin Bennett ! He has a son Austin, too. The son is twenty years older than my Grandfather and his father,of course,much older. So,which one of these Austin Bennetts is the namesake ? I'll never know for sure. This does validate the story however.
Later in the census I find my Great Grandfather Reichart living on the same street with some of Great Grandmothers brothers. It is a small world.
This Austin Bennett must have made quite an impression on my grandfather for him to name his child after him. I sure would like to know that reason but it is lost to time. Perhaps someday I'll stumble upon some record or story that will shed further light. Still I have no idea why Dad was called Ben all the time. I wonder if my grandfather called him that and if he did why ? If you want to call someone Ben why name him Austin ? I haven't discovered any Ben Bennetts but Austin Bennett had a granddaughter named Bert.
It is fun to speculate about it anyway. As for me,call me Ben. That is what I am used to and comfortable with. If I had always been called Austin would I be a different person ? Umm, something to consider isn't it.

Hard Copy

I started writing these blogs of mine with the intent of recording my thoughts and memories. I have tons of pictures of the ancestors but very little of their writing. A few scraps of paper and a postcard. My maternal grand mother died shortly after giving birth. I have a postcard she sent to her father when she was a child. The salutation says," Dear Papa " and for some reason I found those two words made a personal connection for me. Just a small piece of what one may consider insignificant information, she called him Papa.
Even though the technology existed there are no audio tapes or movies of any of my Grandparents and precious little of my parents. A lot of still photographs.
Photographs are wonderful things, but often need explaining by someone who was their or knows about them. My Great Grand mother was good about writing on them, who or what the picture was, but I have many that do not.
With that in mind, and my love of running my mouth,I began this journal of life. My life and my thoughts. I got inspiration from others doing the same thing. I do believe we each have a story to tell. I am hoping to write a book one day and have started on that project,although not in earnest. I have a few ideas about it.
Everyone in my immediate family is well aware of my blog. I saw to that ! Probably  drove them a little nuts with it too. All have politely tolerated my incessant talking about it. In fact,my son and his wife gave me a gift certificate for Father's day to blog2print. This service will take your blog and print it in a book format,including binding,and ship it directly to you. It is wonderful. I got to design the book and personalize it. I specified what I wanted printed and had complete control of the process.
I just received it in the mail the other day. It is great and I am very pleased with the result. I will definitely continue to do it with more of my blogs. It is worth every cent. Even though I know I paid for this it just seems like I had a book published. Well,I did. The first edition run was one copy. Pretty rare book !
There is just nothing to compare to a hard copy. Sure it is all stored digitally on the net and my computer, but computers can crash. Baring an unforeseen disaster,fire or flood, that book should be around for a long time.
Only thing I forgot was to include the authors name. Yup, only says by Ben. I will write inside, using my best penmanship, the pertinent details. Great Grand mother is probably chastising me right now. Write on the back an explanation.

I think it is only volume one anyway. I think I just heard the rest of the family breathe a collective sigh.

Inside pages

Front Cover

Old cars and memories

 I was thinking about my first car. I had several in quick succession but the one I drove the most was a 1964 Ford Falcon station wagon. Not the coolest ride, but very reliable.
It has been many years, but if memory serves, the very first car I owned was a 1960 Chevy belair. I quickly traded that car to my father in exchange for his F-85 Oldsmobile. The Olds had a V-8 and the Chevy a straight six, so the reason is obvious. Wasn't long before I destroyed that engine. It just wasn't designed for the abuse I handed out. After that I got my Falcon.
My Uncle was the owner of that fine piece of machinery. My Aunt used to drive it to work every day. She had had it for many years when it mysteriously lost oil pressure. Deciding to replace it,rather than repair it,it was parked in my Uncles yard. Just by chance, I was visiting with him and he offered me that car. Free. Gratis. For Nada. All I had to do was fix it. As it turned out ,it was an easy fix and I was soon rolling.
The car was white with a red and white interior. Equipped with an A M radio tuner. It was powered by the famous 170 cubic inch in line six cylinder. On the air cleaner was emblazoned " 170 Special ". A three speed automatic transmission completed the package. The car ran like a champ. It was just your basic transportation and just what I needed.
I wasn't aware at the time but this car was probably the perfect vehicle for me at that time. It was basic enough in design that I could easily repair any component and lacking in horsepower and speed enough to keep me alive. It was durable,I'll give it that. The most important thing was, it was paid for. I had no payments to make,except for insurance. It was fuel efficient and reliable.
Down side was, it was a dorky car to have when you're 17. No matter,I learned to appreciate its' virtues.
I drove this car throughout my senior year of high school. I had many adventures and good times in that car. It never left me on the side of the road. I gave that car to my brother when I left for the service. I don't remember the fate of that ride. Many is the time I wished I still had it. Good basic transportation is hard to come by. I occasionally see them in the " classic/antique" car section for sale. Maybe one day I'll have another one.

Hi-Fi to Wi-Fi

According to the grand kids I'm pretty dang old. Age is relevant,as we all know.
When I was twenty, fifty was old and now I'm 58 and know that ain't old. I've seen a few changes take place but that's progress. Just means you are living and aware. I have only to think about the changes my own parents have seen to realize I really haven't seen that much: yet. Bring it on.
I remember my Dad getting a stereo console with a record player,AM/FM radio and eight track player. Pretty hi tech stuff. It was High Fidelity Stereo ! Huge woofers,two mid range speakers and two tweeters ! It was amazing,like having the band right in the room. Dad wouldn't let me play my, " jungle music " on his stereo. Guess he was afraid the thing would break from all that sound.
Later on I would get an eight track player for my car and stereo speakers too ! Man alive, I was jamming. Then somewhere along the line came Dolby digital sound. That changed everything. Then surround sound. Now I hear about high definition radio but I'm not real sure what that is all about. Yup,seen some changes.
I started out with a black and white television with two channels. Now its' flat screen,full color,three dimensional,surround sound and almost unlimited channels. At least five hundred or so. What's next ? Holographic television would be my guess. Don't think I'll be around for that.
I Remember my first video game. PONG ! It was an exciting game. You could play hockey on it too. That green screen with the square ball going back and forth was additive. We all know where they have gone with those games now. A bit of an improvement I'd say.
My first computer experience. A green screen with white lettering. You had to type in the DOS commands for it to function. It was a revolution to be sure. I even " wrote " a rudimentary program to do a specific job. In reality I just copied an existing program but changed the words on the command line. Soon after, windows was released and that old DOS system stuff was history. Now only a true computer geek would know about that.
I'm sitting here right now writing this blog on a flat screen monitor. Living color and stereo speakers built right in. This screen is as big or bigger than that first television I had. No phone line connection for me either, I'm using WI-FI.
I've gone from Hi-FI to WI-FI, where will I go next ? I don't know but it should be exciting. I'm not a real tech kinda guy and don't readily embrace new technologies. I can take it or leave it most times. Like my computer though and there was a time when I couldn't think of a use for having one. Progress is being made every day.
One day the grand children will be telling their grandchildren,why we had to watch television on a monitor with special glasses if we wanted three D. And not only that we had to actually input the data with a keyboard to get it in the computer !
" Computer "  " Publish this Blog "
Dang,have to do it myself !
A parting thought, went from a dirt road to a highway too. Hi-way,Hi-Fi and now Wi-Fi what is the next Hi or Wi ?

Old stories revisited

Occasionally a story from my past will come to mind. It may be one I was directly involved with or just one that I was told. Old stories revisited are fun and somehow seem almost new. Like reading a good book more than once, the story is not so important as the telling.
Recently a friend on facebook posted a picture of her Dad holding a rather large lobster. It was that picture that triggered this memory. Strange how a picture,a smell,or even just an expression can do that. Anyway,I was not there when this story took place, but would like to share it anyway.
My oldest brother was graduating from basic training at Great Lakes,Ill. This is the Navy boot camp. My parents were going to drive there to attend the graduation ceremony. As it so happens,my Uncle,Dads' brother, lived in Chicago at that time. It was decided to bring him a live lobster fresh from the dock at home. A lobster,especially a larger one,can survive several days out of water if kept cold. They sorta hibernate. I don't know the science behind that but it works.
So a large cooler was procured. My father knew most of the fishermen and put them on the lookout for a large lobster. The day they were to leave an 18 Lb. lobster was waiting at the dock. In case you don't know much about lobsters 18 Lbs. is huge. It was crammed into that cooler and filled with ice. Then it was placed in the trunk of the car. It was during the winter months so Dad figured it should stay alright and the cooler wouldn't need to be opened. All set.Off to Chicago.
On the way to my Uncle's place they were pulled over by the state police. The officer explained they were looking for something or someone. This suspect was driving a vehicle very similar to theirs. He asked if he could search the car. My Mom and Dad said,sure we have nothing to hide. After the officer had looked around the interior he asked Dad to open the trunk. No problem. Pushing the button the lid popped up. Dad says he was standing next to the car on the drivers side. He was next to the front door when he saw the officer backing up quickly and reaching for his gun! He was saying," what the H#$L is that ?" It was then that Dad thought about the lobster in the cooler.
Dad explained to the Officer that it was a Maine lobster. The cop says," no it ain't,they're red " Dad laughed and said," only after they're cooked Bub."
My parents told this story many times, as you can imagine. That poor Policeman had never seen a live lobster before and certainly not one of that size. Guess you can never be sure what you will find in someones trunk.

After a little discussion the Policeman had a good laugh along with them. I bet he told that story a few times himself.

Live and Learn

You are never too old to learn. We have all heard that expression and I,for one,have found it to be true. Every experience in life is an opportunity to learn. One need only pay attention. As any one of you that follow my blog knows, I just returned from a short vacation to Virginia Beach. It was a delightful time and a learning experience as well. I learned to not look at yourself in pictures. Especially if you are wearing bathing attire ! Doubly so if you are in the vicinity of well tanned people. The contrast is quite "stark".
Another item of knowledge learned is, " don't post anything on Facebook without permission from those in the view." If you don't understand why,refer to the first lesson !
The best pictures are either taken from the neck up or full frontal shots. Long distance shots are ok,as are silhouettes. Never do profile ! Wear a hat . Wear a shirt. Wear long pants. Best not to get your picture taken at all ! lol.
I have learned though that the picture you are seeing isn't really that bad to others. After all, it is what they see all the time and have become accustomed to it. Our own eyes lie to us ! Some time back I wrote about defective technology. Mirrors and cameras lie. Only the minds eye tells the truth. I know that I don't really look like that. It is a trick of lighting and the camera.
I have learned that the next time I go on vacation to be more prepared. At my age I can't just wing it anymore. A little pre tanning would have been useful. A little more exercise before vacation would help also. Swimming and walking long distance is something best approached with a little prep. Save a lot of sore muscles. Start eating sporadically to get the digestive system in tune to avoid any,well you know.
One more thing I learned, always pack coffee filters ! My daughter in law remembered to pack the coffee but neglected the filters. There was a coffee pot in the room.There was also that coffee in the packs. That coffee is in a filtered pack ready for use but the kind in the room was something about a Rainforrest  blend something or another. Makes me nervous, Folgers please or a brand known to me. Paper towel will substitute for a filter and that is the way I went.
Oh,I did learn one other thing. After the third day, you are old hat. Walking through the lobby the desk clerk barely gives you a glance. On the first day he/she was falling over themselves to be helpful and friendly. The second day they spoke to me as though we we old friends. The third day, forget about it.
Everything is accelerated on vacation. Time flies and so does your money ! Friends are made and soon gone. I even got older on vacation. I'm sunburned,suffering from muscle fatigue and having digestive problems. The top of my head is sunburned and beginning to peel. Now I'm scratching my head and people are thinking I've got head lice or something. And one more thing; where did all that gray hair come from ? Wasn't there prior to vacation. Must be side effects from the SPF 90 I was wearing.

That's what I'm talking about ! Good picture !

I love vacations.

It is over

Well,another vacation is over. Had a wonderful time with the kids and Grandkids. I think we are all swum out. New word there. We went,we swam and we are now swum out ! Had a nice ride back home and into the real world again. The grass needs to be cut,the pool needs cleaning,the laundry needs doing and,oh yeah,have to go back to work too ! Bummer.
I love vacation.Going places and doing things every day. Everyone around you excited to be doing something. It is great. Too bad we couldn't live every day like a vacation. At least with the enthusiasm that we do. I suppose that is why it is called vacation. We vacate our normal routine and enter a new world. A world of excitement and adventure. Doing only what we want to do. Well,almost,sometimes we just have to go along with the others but even that is fun. Wouldn't hurt us all to just go along with others sometimes when we are not on vacation either.
When on vacation it is fun to try to interact with the natives. You can always tell who they are. They are probably not smiling or wearing beach wear. If the are employed by the resort they will be friendly enough and if they are not they probably won't be. I understand,I have invaded their space. Most are polite enough and have grown accustomed to the tourist. All will gladly take your money. I don't blame them for that.The native is a tricky animal. They can turn on you in a moment,so beware.
I was thinking about how quickly time goes by. Memorial day,gone,fourth of July,done,vacation,over the carnival has come and gone. Soon it will be labor day and back to school ! Then Thanksgiving and Christmas and New Year; I need another vacation !

Vacation Day four

Woke up to an angry sea. It was raining as well. If you looked to the south however,there was promise in the day. A lighter patch of sky was visible. We took a little extra time with breakfast before heading to the beach. By now we are experienced tourists,old hands at this,and know exactly where to go and how to get set up. We are also wise enough to not take unnecessary items with us. We rented two chaise lounges and an umbrella. We are set.
It is still a bit overcast but the temperature is pleasant enough. The water does feel a little colder today and the surf  just a little higher. No matter,knowing it is our last full day we will persevere irregardless . The sand,the surf and the sun are taking its toll upon us all. It is possible to have too much fun ! Whoever said otherwise,lied. I will not be deterred though,I will continue to have fun ! After a while the sun has returned in all its' glory and the temperature rises. It is a beautiful day.
Wanting to ensure we take advantage of everything at least one more time we decide to head to the hotel in the early afternoon. The lazy river,swimming pool and hot tub await. Ahh,what a great life. I could get used to this lifestyle. Sleep,play,eat and sleep a little more. Just like that cat of mine. Pampered and spoiled, with no responsibility.

not me,I'm taking the picture

WE went to a rib joint," Jakes " for our final dinner on vacation. The food was good but the service was terrible. Perhaps our server was new to the job or perhaps incompetent I don't know which. My tip to her would have been, " get a different job " but my daughter in law gave her a monetary one anyhow. She is soft hearted that way.
We took in a movie and all turned in for the night about midnight. No one wants to go home to the real world but it is time to pack it up. One more time in the lazy river with the kids. Our time here is almost over. Well,you know it was for a limited time. Doesn't make it easier to do what you know you have to. Go Home !

Vacation Day Three

Day three of vacation has gone by. It was a long day but as with most days on vacation, fun filled. No worries man ! Isn't that what Bob Marley says ? W I tried everything started out on the lazy river. Ahh,how refreshing. The hotel has two. One indoors and another out. Both are medium sized. The outdoor one has a slide that takes you through a tube and splash ! Kids love that one. Following that we all went to the main swimming pool. Now we are talking ! The deepest section is five feet so that is just right for me. We played catch in the pool and generally just clowned around. The weather was great.
It got to be about dinnertime and we headed out. Went to " Georges Restaurant " an, all you can eat, seafood buffet ! I tried most everything,seafood wise,that they offered. Crab cakes,fried calamari,shrimp,mussells,fried clam strips,stuffed flounder, and talapia. That wasn't everything but you get the idea. A big glass of sweet tea washed it all down nicely. Offering sage advice I let everyone know , " don't fill up on the salad and breadsticks and pace yourself !"
It was an enjoyable little restaurant .The service was good and the prices reasonable. We all had our fill.
We were all walking just a little slower when we left there. It was time, time for our family tradition of playing mini-golf. Every time we go on vacation we play one game of mini golf. The competition is fierce ! I can't believe how much the rest of the family members will cheat ! You have to watch them like a hawk. They will even stoop so low as to accuse me of deviating from the rules. When they know I always play by the official PGA rules of mini golf. Rule number one is, Grandpa always wins !
It is always a fun filled event. This time Maria edged me out by one stroke. My wife kept score and I'm not so sure it was a completely accurate accounting. You can't trust women !
A little more shopping and some Ben and Jerrys to top off the day. Made it back to the room about 11:30 pm. Very late for me these days. It's alright though,we're on vacation.

Vacation Day 2

Day two of vacation is in the books. We spent most of yesterday on the beach. We
went all out with the tourist thing and rented two loungers and an umbrella. Geez,wish I owned that concession ! The water temperature was pleasant enough and for most of the day the surf was manageable. Earlier in the morning Grandma and I had the kids in the lazy river here at the hotel. That water temp was just right and I could easily handle the current.
Everyone is starting to feel the effects of too much fun. A little sunburned and tired already. All things in moderation is not applying well. I'm doing well with only a little sunburn on the top of my feet. My son on the other hand,well he needed a bit more sunblock applied. The kids,being kids,are doing well. We had pizza for dinner and that was good for them.
Today we plan to rent the bicycles built for six and ride the boardwalk. The boardwalk is three miles in length for a six mile round trip excursion. I'm up for it but we'll reserve judgement on some of the others. My other big plan for today is Ice Cream ! I'm getting a Ben and Jerrys'. Love me some ice cream.
One last note on yesterday. My son and his family got caught in a tourist trap ! Not totally unexpected but they dragged me in with them. Come into the house of mirrors. Not a house of mirrors were you see yourself in different shapes and sizes but a maze. Try to find your way out ! They outfit you with a pair of disposable latex gloves and tell you to walk slowly hands out in front of you,like a zombie. Wishing you " good luck " you are off. And unless you are maybe three or four years old you will be out in two minutes,tops ! At seven dollars a pop it is a real tourist trap ! LOL that's part of the fun.

Vacation day 1

We made it to Virginia Beach. The room is fantastic and the weather has been sporadic. Sunny and bright one minute and storming the next. No matter, I did venture into the Atlantic Ocean with the Grand kids. Tried body surfing but should have waxed the board ! LOL After an hour or so of that activity it was time to go eat.
I am enjoying being the tourist. Even bought another pair of swimming trunks. Will be doing the lazy river today. As I sit here pecking away at this keyboard I can hear the sound of the breakers just outside the room. I am using the wives lap top and I found it difficult to type. I'm not what you would call proficient in the first place but this is nerve wracking.
It is six in the morning and the Grand kids are up and about. Time to go walk the boardwalk,in this case,the cement walk ! The times they are a changin'.

checking in with the kids !

Vacation

At the eleventh hour I have decided to go on vacation with my son and his family. They had previously made reservations and with their usual forethought included my wife and I in their plans.
We are going to Virginia beach,Va. Being in the Navy I have been there in the past. It has been many years however, and I'm quite sure things have changed. I know that I have, and now have a totally different set of interests. Plus I'll be going in tourist mode. I have purchased extra batteries for the camera and extra sd cards as well. I have the requisite camera bag too. Full tourist mode,coming up !
It will be quite a sight I'm sure. And unless my daughter in law sneaks in a few snapshots when I'm not aware,one that will not be seen on facebook ! I just purchased a set of bathing trunks. Seems the only ones I could find are those made for several people. They tell me that is the style. Those stark white shanks of mine sticking out the bottom of those massive shorts should be quite the spectacle. Only thing missing will be sandals worn with white socks ! That is not happening.
I am looking forward to spending time with the grand kids. Not that I don't see them practically every day but not while on vacation. The hotel we are staying at has its' own " lazy river " and that is where you will find me. I was introduced to that pleasure a few years back and can't get enough. Just lay back and float,my kind of recreation. The kids will talk Grandpa into getting on some rides and I'm prepared for that. Have to let them think they convinced me,they get a kick out of that. We will eat out a few times and I enjoy that. I don't do that often. All things in moderation.
So,it's off to the beach. The Atlantic ocean,the sand and the crowds. It will be fun I'm sure. I might even venture into that water. We'll see. I'm not much of a swimmer but someone needs to be with the kids. I can body surf but haven't done so in quite a few years. Guess it would be like riding a bicycle,you never forget how. Well we'll see,I hope I don't make too much of a spectacle out of myself. On the other hand,who cares, I'm just a crazy tourist anyway.

Saving History

The fourth of July came and went here in Greensboro. An uneventful day,all told. No parade and no fireworks. The fireworks were held Friday night. I worked half a day at the store. Not much one can say about it all.
I did join the Greensboro chapter of the Caroline County Historical Society. I attended my first meeting last night. Attendance,as you might expect,was minimal. The society maintains a log cabin for public viewing and I was named Docent of the cabin. This cabin is almost directly across the street from my home. I am more than happy to have it open every Sunday afternoon for visitors.
The society has a few projects underway. I will involve myself in them to the extent possible. After all,I am from away and it will take time to fit in. I have a lot of history to learn about this town I now call home. As in most small towns there are a few " core " families that have been here many generations. Most of them own businesses or large farms in the area. And of course,there are the iconic families,that you had best not say anything untoward about. I will learn these nuances with time.
At last nights meeting I did a lot of listening. I don't recall the sage who said it but, " I never learned anything while talking " and that is certainly true. I listened carefully. I am hoping sometime in the future I can shed new light upon some of their old problems. A different view can sometimes help.
From the meeting I did learn their biggest complaint was a lack of interest from the community at large. I can understand that, as when I was younger I didn't appreciate history as I do now. Community involvement is key. Somehow I think the society needs to make their presence known. I found them on the internet quite by accident. It was there that they had asked for volunteers to keep the cabin open. Some years ago the town celebrated " Founders Day " every fall with historic artifacts on display,people wearing period clothing and a parade. A couple years ago that was changed to, Fall Fest. Now it is still a parade but no history stuff involved. The only involvement will be having the museum and cabin open. There will be vendors galore at the carnival grounds and a DJ.
It is a shame but the young people want a " festival " not an old fogeys day. That is just the way it is. At any rate I'm excited to be the newest member of the society. I'm looking forward to helping out and preserving some history !

The Cabin ( circa 1850)

A new law

I hear so much about it I don't really pay attention anymore. Political figures in trouble for corruption or dubious moral choices. Weiner and his sexting thing. Finally he resigns but not till he was pretty much forced into it. It wasn't from shame,he has none of that,it was pressure from the President on down. He does however, still receive numerous perks and benefits. Among them the right to still use the congressional gym. The same one he sent his dirty little photos from.
The latest I've heard about is here in Maryland. As I said,I really don't even pay attention anymore. I do know this woman has already been convicted of crimes in connection with her husband. He held an office and was taking bribes from contractors. When they raided his home his wife,the lady I'm talking about,was stuffing the cash in her underwear and flushed a 100 thousand dollar check down the toilet. She has been elected to office and will not resign.
Apparently there is no rule of law saying she has too. The rules must have been written back in the days of common sense. Back then, we figured that didn't need to be stated. Common sense would prevail. If you are convicted of serious crimes,aiding and abetting, receiving bribes, for instance,you couldn't be elected to office or serve in that capacity.
Now,we the taxpayers,will have to expend our resources to determine if she is fit to hold office. Additionally, if she found not fit,what do we do about it ?
I'm thinking what we need here is a new Law.  The Law of Common Sense ! This law needs to be written,not by lawyers, but by a common man. Here are a few suggestions.
If you do something stupid and hurt yourself, it is your fault and not the manufacturer of the item !
If you commit crimes while in any political office,you are immediately fired !
Seeking "counseling " is not an excuse for the behaviour. IE: sexting, going to a sexting therapist does not excuse the behaviour.
If the exact issue is not addressed in the law,refer to common sense !
The first Law of common sense is; if you are doing something you must hide from others,it is probably wrong !
The second Law of common sense is; lying,cheating and stealing are always wrong !
The third Law of Common sense is; when in doubt,refer to rule one !
I'm Just Sayin"

Overheard

I'm not being an eavesdropper, but I do overhear peoples comments while working at the store. Sometimes they are funny,sometimes not, but almost always they make me wonder.
Overheard: This 2 liter bottle of soda is 1.39, why that's almost as much as the little one ! Used to be cheaper.
Overheard: I only use Windex because that Ammonia D works better than regular ammonia.
Overheard: If chickens sit on eggs to keep them warm,why do we have to refrigerate them ?
Overheard: The best stuff is on the bottom shelf,the cheap stuff is in the middle.
Overheard: He said he wanted a case but all they got is these 12 packs. How many should I get ? (adults talking here)
Overheard: Get the chocolate milk,it lasts longer in the fridge.
Overheard: These are ten for ten. How much for one ?
Actual Question to me: What does this water taste like ? It was a bottle of plain/unflavored water.
Overheard: crack one egg,you'll get a discount (not)
Overheard: I only buy the whole milk. That 2% milk is 98% water ! Most people don't know that.
Overheard: This Capn' Crunch ain't the same as the Capn' Crunch at Food Lion. (it was an actual box of Capn' Crunch,not the store brand )
Overheard: Lemon scented bleach works best,it's the lemon in it.
Overheard: Bags cost money. Why aren't they free ? ( I work at Save-A -Lot,where you have to buy the bags)
Overheard: Mother to child, bacon comes from a pig,I'm not sure where ham comes from.
Overheard: They said they don't have a public bathroom,well, I'm not the public, I'm a customer.


These are just some of the things I hear. It is always amusing. Leaves you wondering sometimes about the educational system. Some can't see the forest for the trees I guess.

Anxious

My day planner is empty. Checking the page for today I find nothing. Alright,I don't really keep a day planner or should it be a palm pilot ? Guess the smart phones do all of that, I don't know. At any rate, I have nothing planned for today. It is supposed to be fairly hot with rising humidity. A beautiful summer day. What to do,what to do. Could go fishing, but the truck needs some work done to it too. My corner of the room where I keep my computer and all my "IMPORTANT" papers ( note they are important papers wifey dear) could use a little tidying up. The attic is a mess as well. Nah,too hot in the attic that will have to wait.
I'm a free spirit. Spontaneous,a spur of the moment kind of guy. I think I'll just wait and see what the day brings. Something is always happening in Greensboro. (yeah,,right). I do have several small projects in mind but lack the motivation to get started on them.That could change at any time. Most of the time my activities are dictated to me. We need to do this or that. Translation, you need to do this or that,you being me ! The dreaded " honey do " list all men live with. The list is completed for now anyway. No doubt it won't remain that way for long.
Truthfully it is a rather unsettling feeling. Like the calm before a storm or when it becomes real quiet in the forest. Something ain't right here. Something is going to happen and it probably ain't good. Drink a little more coffee and take a nice shower and things will change. Motivation comes in many forms.
That feeling of foreboding being one of them. I had best get started doing something,anything. Do something,even if it is wrong,do something. Don't just sit there and allow yourself to be waylaid.
I gotta go !

Going to Sammys

We are going to Sammys beach ! I remember hearing those words as a child and it was always like hearing,you won the lottery. I loved going to the beach.
Sammys Beach is in Gardniers bay off the eastern end of Long Island. Going about four or five miles in the opposite direction would land you at Main Beach, the Atlantic Ocean.
The bay was my favorite. You could swim,dive,float around,dig for clams and fish. No need to worry about the big waves knocking you down,no undercurrent and no where near as crowded. Besides that, Sammys beach was ours ! You know how you have a place that you consider your stomping ground ? Sammys was mine and you had best not intrude upon it. If you did, my posse and I wouldn't play with you and probably not even be polite ( until Mom caught on anyway). I knew every inch of that beach,from the parking area down to the waters edge.
Mom would take us in the afternoons after her housework was done. Dad worked a night shift and needed to sleep so out of the house for us. Was alright with me. Most times we took a small cooler with a couple of drinks in it and maybe a sandwich or two. I always had my inner tube ( came from a tractor so it was a big one ). Mom brought the " Coppertone " and a magazine. I think we used the suntan lotion once or twice but after that it wasn't needed. We would be as brown as Indians. We were tanned deeply with no concern for skin cancer and all that. Blissfully ignorant !
The number one safety rule was, no swimming for a half hour after eating,you will get cramps and die ! That was a hard and fast rule. I have since learned that this has no basis in fact but is an old wives tale. It is so ingrained in me  however, I still wait the required time. That's the stuff the head doctors talk about. Mom messed me up. LOL
I remember one time my father coming to the beach. It was hilarious seeing him in bathing trunks. With the exception of his arms,face and neck he was as white as a sheet. I was impressed with his swimming ability. I remember him saying, " I'm no Johnny Wisemiller, but I can swim bub." That's when I learned who Johnny Wisemiller was.
Dad never did anything on a small scale. Going to the beach with him was no different. We took several coolers,two shovels,blankets,beach chairs and the umbrella ! I was feeling like those tourists up to main beach ! It was quite a spectacle.When we got all this equipment down on the beach the real work began. With Dad around there was always work to be done. Under his direction we began to dig a pit. Not too deep and about six foot in diameter. Well,that wasn't too bad but we weren't done. We were then instructed to find large rocks to line this pit with. Rocks about the size of a football were preferred. That took some time to accomplish. I was wondering if we would ever get to swim. Not yet, gather up the firewood. A lot of firewood ! I did discover new places on the beach and in the dunes. Finally, when enough had been gathered we were paroled long enough to go play.
Dad started a big fire. I wasn't quite sure what he had in mind,it was warm enough out, but maybe he was cold. He kept adding wood to the fire. After a good while the flames died down and a glowing bed of embers remained. Then Dad called to us kids. Gather up the seaweed ! NO,not that dry stuff,the green stringy kind in the water. Doing as we were told,a big pile was soon collected. Then Dad did the darnest thing, he threw that seaweed right on those hot rocks and coals.Hissing and popping noises filled the air along with a plume of steam. Once the full blanket of seaweed was in place he opened those coolers. Into the seaweed he placed corn on the cob, fish that he had wrapped in tin foil, some vegetables and a few lobsters ! We also steamed some clams.
That was by far the most delicious food I have ever eaten. It was a lot of work but worth it. I had heard of a clambake and it was my first one. As it turned out, it was also my last one. Before we left the beach those rocks were scattered back around,the coals disposed of and the hole filled in. Leave it like you found it ,was what Dad said. It was a long exhausting day but one of the fondest memories I have.