From the Mail Room

This arrived in my mail box, a chain letter to be passed on to a number of people or else.
Well how about delivering the mail a different way.

Your cell phone is in your pocket.
He clutches the cross hanging on his chain next to his dog tags.

You talk trash about your 'buddies' that aren't with you.
He knows he may not see some of his buddies again.

You walk down the beach, staring at all the pretty girls.
He patrols the streets, searching for insurgents and terrorists.

You complain about how hot it is.
He wears his heavy gear, not daring to take off his helmet to wipe his brow.

You go out to lunch, and complain because the restaurant got your order wrong.
He doesn't get to eat today.

Your mother makes your bed and washes your clothes.
He wears the same things for weeks, but makes sure his weapons are clean.

You go to the shops and get your hair redone.
He doesn't have time to brush his teeth today.

You're angry because your day at work ran 5 minutes over.
He's told he will be held over an extra 2 months.

You call your girlfriend and set a date for tonight.
He waits for the mail to see if there is a letter from home.

You hug and kiss your girlfriend, like you do everyday.
He holds his letter close and smells his love's perfume.

You roll your eyes as a baby cries.
He gets a letter with pictures of his new child, and wonders if they'll ever meet.

You criticize your government, and say that war never solves anything.
He sees the innocent tortured and killed by their own people and remembers why he is fighting.

You hear the jokes about the war, and make fun of men like him.
He hears the gunfire, bombs and screams of the wounded.

You see only what the media wants you to see.
He sees the broken bodies lying around him.

You are asked to do some thing by your parents. You don't.
He does exactly what he is told even if it puts his life in danger.

You stay at home and watch TV.
He takes whatever time he is given to call, write home, sleep, and eat.

You crawl into your soft bed, with down pillows, and get comfortable.
He tries to sleep but gets woken by mortars and helicopters all night long.

If you support your troops, send this to 13 people.

If you support your troops, send this to 13 people.

REMEMBER our Troops, and do not forget them LATER
Lest we forget -
KEEP THE CHAIN GOING

Almost in the Red Zone

Preparations for the Big Day is chugging along, not smoothly but chugging.

Our other daily obligations seem to intrude on to the preparations for decorations, food, etc.

Over the weekend we were distracted by yard sales and Free Food.

Overall, we are getting closer to finishing point, 85% completion, I am sure something will be forgotten.

On a good light, the dress is a little too big, thus I am back to Timmy's for the extra large Cafe Mocha and DONUTS!

Irritant

This has been irritating me for a while. In this day and age of economic uncertainty, a job is a privilege.   Unfortunately some who simply abuse this privilege. If I were to evaluate this situation, I will simply downgrade them from full-time position. Afterall they are only performing part-time responsibilities. Surfing the web 6 out of 8 hours, online shopping, playing videos, checking on-line lottery does not constitute work.   Plus complaints of headaches and other major problems, must be hard work pretending to work. Rant over. Time for bed.

Independence Day

This is a little late, at least it arrived.   July 4th marked my first Independence Day as a citizen of the United States, interestingly, after almost 2 decades of residence here.   The pledge of Allegience and the National Anthem carry different meanings now. I wonder if I still have the strength to enlist, ..... Nope. I have turned into a chicken, actually Parenthood took presidence.

Plugs for the local businesses

Time for some referrals because they scored well on my wallet: 1. Gracie's Deli, 10 am to 9pm, Located on Romick Parkway/Bright Road. This quaint little deli/bistro features a good range of Amish Cheeses, Meats, jams, noodles, breads, pies as well as a good range of ice-creams and sandwiches. There have been a lot of recommendations to DRIVE 3 hours to Amish Country for their Trail Bologna, well Trail Bologna came to me, really good meat. In addition, my new favorite there is the Blueberry Ice-cream, wow, smacked my tastes buds with a beautiful creamy but not overpowering, swirl of blueberry and waffle crumbs. I give Gracie's Deli : MUST STOP BY. PS: They have Hooters girls at their charity car wash. Just in case there are readers who erhm ... idolize busty girls in scanty bikinis. 2. Flippin Jimmy's : Located at 110 W North St, Fostoria. The big boss knows my appetite for the simple favorites. Flippin Jimmy's is the place, in his words, "A GOOD greasy burger and Fries." Mind you, he is an advocate for gym time and exercise for a healthy lifestyle. I MUST try this place out, they toppled the health guru to the dark side. Yeah!! Fantastic burgers and excellent crispy bold fries. The burgers are reminiscence of the old drive thrus on roller skates. And they have the huge tv, plus I changed the channels to ESPN. The sweet tea is a great companion to any of the items on the menu. Chicken chunks are excellent, better than the other chains. Not too greasy and still moist. Plus free WI-FI. My only stink with them, the closed COFFEE bar. This coffee junkie was cheated of liquid diesel. Flippin Jimmy's get a: Back flip. 3. Jim's Hot Dogs. Located: at the North End of Findlay on Saturdays. Location can vary. I am a glutton for HOT DOGS, especially if I am swept home to 8th Avenue and 42nd Street NYC. So on a rare Saturday morning, I stumbled upon a rainbow coloured umbrella and the familiar aroma of meat in a bun, I had to narrowly kill 3 cars, cross 4 lanes, zip across the parking lot and screeched to a halt with 2 wide-eyed, wet pants monkeys in the back seat. "Hit me up with 2 dogs and a bag of chips for them" The first bite, snapped the skin a little, was surreal. The outdoor tables and the passing traffic may helped with the 10% NYC experience, nah. These are great dogs. In the meantime, 2 other customers pulled up, an elderly man and lady in executive attire. The range of customers tells the story, the FOOD RULES! Jim's Dogs definitely packs the BITE!

4. Buckingham Enterprises

Located at: http://buck-33.blogspot.com/.

This is the man for custom jewelry, but best for Masonic Jewels. A lot of beautiful and intricate pieces.

Buckingham Enterprises gets a Hat Tip.

Sorry Detroit

I feel for the motor city and their losing streak.

Detroit Car makers
Detroit Lions
Detroit Pistons
Detroit Tigers

Finally the light that would have been their only salvation, the Detroit Red Wings, who kept me up for the last week, fell gracefully to the smaller, younger but mightier Penguins.

Let's just say, the Kid grew Wings and won the STANLEY CUP.

LET'S GO PENS!!
What a game!
The tear jerker, when Lemieux raised the Cup.
And the unfortunate thought that this is it, no more hockey.
All the hard work staying up late has come to this, the Holy Grail that hockey greats exchange spit. The cheering and pounding of fists, the white towels that used to be in the kitchen.
This is the end of the season.
I can sleep tonight.

ps: now I am in a drought of sports entertainment until August, when FOOTBALL season starts!!

Game 5!!

Penguin's Recipe for Success.

Evgeni Malkin's mother's lucky borscht

Thursday, June 04, 2009
By Bob Batz Jr., Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Red Borscht

Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin loves his parents, Natalia and Vladimir, being here from Magnitogorsk, Russia,to watch him play -- in great part because his mom can cook for him. Just after scoring a hat trick in Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes, Malkin told the Toronto Sun that was the key to his success: "Every time before a game, I get great cooking. Great Russian food" (that day, a beef entree with soup).
His mom says (via the translation of Penguins sales account executive George Birman) that this is her son's favorite.

1 pound any kind of meat, cubed (approximately 1 1/2-inches)
3 medium baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 medium head cabbage, cored and shredded
8-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 medium beets, peeled and shredded
3 carrots, peeled and shredded
1 teaspoon white sugar, or to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
6-ounce can tomato paste
3/4 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sour cream, for topping
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Fill a large pot halfway with water (about 2 quarts), add the meat and bring to a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pot. Add the potatoes and bring to a boil. Add the cabbage and the can of diced tomatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the beets, and cook until tender. Add the carrots, the white sugar and the raw garlic. Stir in the tomato paste and water until well blended. Add skillet contents to the soup and bring to a boil, cover and turn off the heat. Let stand for 15 to 20 minutes. Taste, and season with salt, pepper and additional sugar, if desired.
Ladle into serving bowls, and garnish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
-- Natalia Malkin, via the Pittsburgh Penguins
First published on June 4, 2009 at 12:00 am

Thank you, Post-Gazette.

I hope his mom made enough for the whole team!

Many Cheers

Cheering, clapping, howling and whistling!!

What a weekend!
The shuttle Atlantis landed SAFELY, finally after 2 days of delay. When back on the ground, the fantastic crew at NASA have to find out why the chicken consomme turned bad. An important theory that I shall elaborate in a later entry.

Families on the ground must have chewed off all their fingernails too, receiving word that a family member has to spend another day in space.
"Sorry, your husband cannot come home tonight. He needs to spend another night in space, where they only have enough supply for another day."

My first salute to the flag on Memorial Day. Salutation to a foreign flag can be considered treason. This year, I proudly showed my respect as an American. Hat Tip to those who made it possible for me.

Then the Penguins pulled it off, impressive foot work and well stage strategies. Way to go and see you boys at the Stanley Cup.

Progress and breakthroughs are made at work therefore I need to schedule some SLACKER time at work hours.
There is also Marked Progress made with the Wedding Plans, there is a spreadsheet of names. A start, nevertheless.

May 28th is the last day of school, on an inconveniently scheduled Thursday. Please pray that the kids will survive this summer, survival of the parents' thinning patience.

My kind of excitement

The birth of this blog coincide with the launch and return of Shuttle Discovery, Commander Eileen Collins at the helm.

When Atlantis begin its long and carefully calculated trip to launchpad 39A, my nerd personality re-emerged. Many many moons ago, I personally witnessed the launch of Shuttle Atlantis from Kennedy Space Center, Mission SatCom, STS 61B.

On Monday, I cheered and pounded my fists in the air, trying to feel the roar as Atlantis soared on a momentous mission. The shuttle closest to me is heading to Hubble Space Telescope, on the FINAL maintenance run. I held my breath until the launch passed the 2 minute mark, watching the NASA TV at work, ignition, lift -off, disengagement of the solid booster rockets and the roll towards HST.

Each day, my life is drawn to the live feeds of the fantastic crew. Repairmen in Space, try holding your tongue when changing a lightbulb on Earth, how about doing the same with 2 snowsuits on, plunk a fishbowl over your head, while wearing 3 pairs of bulky gloves. The intensity and difficulty of space walks vanquish any trivial criticisms on the importance of Space Exploration. My admiration extends skywards. The intrincity to operate the robotic arm, un-surpassed by only the best.

To watch the operations live from space is amazingly motivational. To hear Drew and John, according to Megan, "monkey around" in space is hilarious.

But the satisfaction is to hear live these words:

Outside the airlock hatch, John Grunsfeld said, "This is a really tremendous adventure that we’ve been on, a very challenging mission. Hubble isn’t just a satellite- it’s about humanity’s quest for knowledge."He also thanked several people who contributed to Hubble and the servicing mission, then went on to say,

"A tour de force of tools and human ingenuity. On this mission in particular, the only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible. On this mission, we tried some things that some people said were impossible….We’ve achieved that, and we wish Hubble the very best. It’s really a sign of the great country that we live in that we’re able to do things like this on a marvelous spaceship, like space shuttle Atlantis. I’m convinced that if we can solve problems, like repairing Hubble, getting into space, doing the servicing we do, travelling 17,500 mph around the Earth, we can achieve other great things, like solving the energy problems and climate problems- all of the things that are in the middle of NASA’s prime and core values. As Drew and I go into the airlock, I want to wish Hubble its own set of adventures and with the new instruments that we’ve installed that it may unlock further mysteries of the universe."

Yes, I witnessed history, again.

More more downloads ...

Arlington VA

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Abraham Lincoln

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Do you have bigger gas pedals?

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This is a local Speedway?

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I can ..alm .....almost ... bea...beat .... this little girl!!!

*Ahhh ... Especially for Mr. J. and Little J., of the Jackson Brothers.

More downloads ...

A recurring theme, sleep.

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I wake up and there is a monkey on my back

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Another hard day of sleep

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Just checking on my 401K, might be Indiana Jones' next Crusade.

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Another hard day of sleep for me too.

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Another hard day of Sleep.

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SPF 5, Pee shield --priceless.

Finally Downloaded some

There are about 3 digital cameras in this household and only 1 "DOWNLOADER" ... ME.
So here are some of what I had to see out of the thousands that they snap mindlessly ... (the recurring themes.... Dogs, Fish, Mischief).

Plastic cup = Tank Decoration

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Old Blue shirt = Doggie Shirt

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Again, Old blue Shirt = Doggie Shirt

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Swearing in ... no swearing of bad words.

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Globetrotters, up close and personal for $100 per minute.

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Scary Steelers Fan ... Good luck Charm?

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Winter reminder

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What to Sacrifice?

Dear readers (or the reader), I did not lose my yearn to write. On the contrary, I am delighted that Easter has arrived! The coloured eggs and bread are the incentives, I am delighted at the end of Lent.


Lent, regardless if Catholicism is the practise in the household, is an excellent character and ideology builder. For 40 days, devotees fast or give up something, as Jesus Christ did in the bible. A character building tool, teenagers give up texting, some sacrifice food, etc. A little before Ash Wednesday, I was engrossed in the study of American history and civics. There amongst the pages of George Washington and founding fathers, emerged an unique mind changing lesson.

Taken for granted are our freedoms - speech, press and expression. What will life be if one of these free acts were eliminated from our lives? Going down the list, I cannot give up speech ( it helps pay the bills), freedom of expression ( difficult when I have the spawns of Satan to deal with daily), what about Press? 40 days without the freedom of press, forgoing the chance to publish one's thoughts. Interesting, what else can I lose? I thought this was a easy sacrifice, one for the record books!



During the last 40 days, my thoughts strayed to those in Communist Regime locations, silenced are their opinions while propaganda media is the way of life. North Korea, China, Russia, Venezuela, Cuba, some parts of the African continent too. Obey whatever is asked or face the consequnces of a jail cell, starvation, labour camps, even death. When the melamine in infant formula scandal emerged, the Chinese government had to quench the public outrage. The solution was an innocent minister and sentenced him to death. By the way, he was innocent, as well as a whistle-blower. Stories of citizens disappearing in North Korea is commonly heard by refugees. Any attemps to publish their opinions of Kim Jung Il, will be met with a firing squad.

Giving up the freedom of press, was difficult but rewarding. As with the old saying, "If you do not have anything good to say, then don't" Or "speak the truth or it is not worth speaking."

Now I savor the news and have a different perspective on how information should be reported. Journalists must uphold their primary objective, to be the eyes and ears for readers. Main stream media abuse this freedom, failed this freedom. Not reporting what you think is right or wrong, just report what you see.

*slightly rusty writing due to lack of practise.

Therapy for the day

To Maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.
2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice!
3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something, ask If They Want Fries with that.
4. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks ..
Once Everyone has Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions, Switch to Espresso.
5. In the Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write ' For Marijuana.
6. Skip down the hall Rather Than Walk and see how many looks you get.
7. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face.
8. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is 'To Go'.
9. Sing Along At The Opera.
10. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend Their PartyBecause You have a headache.
11.. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream 'I Won! I Won!'
12.. When Leaving the Zoo, Start Running towards the Parking lot, Yelling'Run For Your Lives! They're Loose!'
13. T ell Your Children Over Dinner, 'Due To The Economy, We Are Going ToHave To Let One Of You Go.'
And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity
14... PICK UP A BOX OF CONDOMS AT THE PHARMACY, GO TO THE COUNTER AND ASKWERE THE FITTING ROOM IS.

THERAPY

REALLY need to check this out

Once in a while a web site wins an honorary place on my favorites menu.


This site passed my 100000 steps stringent inspection and gained its fateful spot on the pull-down menu.

Introducing:

Rusty Nail Wood Works

I rarely endorse other commercial sites, but his stuff is bloody cool, especially the cooler thing.
Or in his fancier term: COOLER CABINET.

Regardless, please give this man a shout out at his site and ... spend some money there.
Here are a few true facts,

1. You WILL be buying something that is Made in USA.
2. An occasion will arise when you will need the COOLER CABINET.
3. The cooler will be the talk of the .... er .... PARTY ... that you forgot to invite me to!
4. It will be too cool, that your wife will actually stock the beer herself.
5. Or it will be too rugged for the wife, she will not go near it. Making it quite the hang out spot.
6. It will be too cool, no one will steal your beer.
7. err ... hiccup ... burp ....

and finally ....

You will get the economy going, one COOLER THING at a TIME.

Hat Tip!

What is this?

The recipe was on the back of a bag of flour,

I took the bag and

Plop it on the copy machine,

Pressed Start.

The problem.... erhm ... the next person who used the copy machine, had white powder on their paperwork.

Just a reminder ...

As the snow melts and starts to warm a little, we are reminded of what we just survived the last few weeks.

SUPERBOWL CHAMPIONS

SUPERBOWL CHAMPIONS

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

WHAT A GAME!!!

We were at a local Lodge, waving our terrible towels and shouting at the top of our lungs.

I have a few weeks of rest before ... well.... Soccer!!!

They Need a Weather Channel Man

It was April and the Aboriginals in a remote part of Northern Australia asked their new elder if the coming winter was going to be cold or mild.

Since he was an elder in a modern community he had never been taught the old secrets.

When he looked at the sky he couldn't tell what the winter was going to be like.

Nevertheless, to be on the safe side, he told his tribe that the winter was indeed going to be cold and that the members of the tribe should collect firewood to be prepared.

But being a practical leader, after several days he had an idea.

He walked out to the telephone booth on the highway, called the Bureau of Meteorology and asked,
'Is the coming winter in this area going to be cold?'

The meteorologist responded, 'It looks like this winter is going to be quite cold.'

So the elder went back to his people and told them to collect even more wood in order to be prepared.

A week later he called the Bureau of Meteorology again.

'Does it still look like it is going to be a very cold winter?'

The meteorologist again replied, 'Yes, it's going to be a very cold winter.'

The elder again went back to his community and ordered them to collect every scrap of firewood they could find.

Two weeks later the elder called the Bureau again.

'Are you absolutely sure that the winter is going to be very cold?' he asked.

'Absolutely,' the man replied.

'It's looking more and more like it is going to be one of the coldest winters ever.

''How can you be so sure?' the elder asked.

The weatherman replied, 'Our satellites have reported that the Aboriginals in the north are collecting firewood like crazy, and that's always a sure sign.'

Signs of a Bad Economy

Our daily lives are affected by the economy downturn, so badly that we have to cut back on a few things.

No more tissues for runny noses.

Even dishwashing liquid is out of the budget.

Hi Grandma in PA, relax,
he is just pre-rinsing the plate.

The other kids have the final rinse.

Winter

Winter is still here!

We are talking about 1 foot of snow, 4 wheel drive, drifting snow etc etc.

And reading the updates on the police scanner online,

http://hancock.oh.scanamerica.us/index.php. The Modern scanner.

The best way to get around is defintely like this:

Although we can end up like this:



And still smile!

Pictures to come...

Taking Chance

There is a lot of hum around the blogosphere about Taking Chance, which will be shown on HBO. A true story about the return of a Marine to his home. Somehow I do not feel the urge to watch it. Why? I already know the details 5 years ago when Blackfive broke his story into the Milblogsphere. 5 years ago, April 2004, I cried as I read LtCol M.R. Strobl's account of the escort of LtCol Chance Phelps home.

Here is an excerpt from April 2004,

23 Apr 04 – The enclosed article was written by LtCol M.R. Strobl USMC who is assigned to MCCDC Quantico, VA and served as the officer who escorted the remains of PFC C. Phelps USMC from Dover AFB, DE to his home. PFC Phelps was
assigned to 3d Bn, 11th Marines – an artillery unit functioning as a povisional infantry battalion during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 2. PFC Phelps was killed in action from a gunshot wound received on 9 Apr 04 during combat operations west of Baghdad. He was buried in Dubois, WY on 17 Apr 04.

TAKING
CHANCE

Chance Phelps was wearing his Saint Christopher medal when he was killed on Good Friday. Eight days later, I handed the medallion to his mother. I didn’t know Chance before he died. Today, I miss him.

Over a year ago, I volunteered to escort the remains of Marines killed in Iraq should the need arise. The military provides a uniformed escort for all casualties to ensure
they are delivered safely to the next of kin and are treated with dignity and respect along the way. Thankfully, I hadn’t been called on to be an escort since Operation Iraqi Freedom began. The first few weeks of April, however, had been a tough month for the Marines. On the Monday after Easter I was reviewing Department of Defense press releases when I saw that a Private First Class Chance Phelps was killed in action outside of Baghdad. The press release listed his hometown—the same town I’m from. I notified our Battalion adjutant and told him that, should the duty to escort PFC Phelps fall to our Battalion, I would take him.

Continue the rest here ..... Taking Chance at Blackfive.net

HERE WE GO

HERE WE GO, STEELERS!
HERE WE GO!
PITTSBURGH GOING TO THE SUPERBOWL!

Remember the commercial,
"How can you watch 9 hours of football over the weekend?"

Simple, watch and cheer from the couch!

Here is the weekend!

What a weekend to look forward to....
Endless winter, too much snow, freezing temperatures.
The APEX, the CRUX, the THING....

FOOTBALL!!

Let's see how the Steelers will shut the loud mouth thug Ray Lewis.

McNabb, how thou should behave against the Cardinals, before they peck your little hiney. Singletary, fly like Michael Jordan.
Reed, stop spitting.

Ahhh.... what ever ... watching for Hines Ward's smile and the waiting for the sound of the helmets crunching each other. It is FOOTBALL baby.

Back to work, I had to get it out... can't really shout it out here... people will think I am weird.

Not sure if you want to be here

As the new year begin, we reflect on what we accomplished and set goals for the next 12 months.

Or in the meantime before all planning begins, we get to keep warm and not freeze.

How cold??

The thermometer read a chilling number this morning, cold enough that the dogs were ready to come in ..........


-19F

Yes you read it right...... -19F!!

It took 3 turns to start the car.
The roads are slick because safety salt is ineffective.
Steam from a soybean processing plant froze as icicles on their awnings.
Cold enough that the kids did not want to play outside.
Schools are cancelled due to concerns of frost accidents as well as heating the schools.

Yep it is cold. Err ... very cold.
If I don't like you, then I wish you are here without a coat, winter boots or indoor heat.

Nah... that is really cruel. (hehehe)

Merry Christmas

It is my annual post, respect to those in uniform.

As you celebrate the seasons, say a prayer for a soldier.
If you see a soldier this season, go up and shake their hand, they won't mind.
Hat Tip to all the Marines.
THANK YOU.



Merry Christmas My Friend
‘Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one-bedroom house made of plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney, with presents to give
and to see just who in this home did live.

As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land.

With medals and badges, awards of all kind,
a sobering thought soon came to my mind.
For this house was different, unlike any I’d seen.
This was the home of a U.S. Marine.

I’d heard stories about them, I had to see more,
so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor in his one-bedroom home.

He seemed so gentle, his face so serene,
Not how I pictured a U.S. Marine.
Was this the hero, of whom I’d just read?
Curled up in his poncho, a floor for his bed?

His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan.
I soon understood, this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night,
owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight.

Soon around the Nation, the children would play,
And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year,
because of Marines like this one lying here.

I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye.
I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.

He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don’t cry, this life is my choice
I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more.
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."

With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep,
I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.

I watched him for hours, so silent and still.
I noticed he shivered from the cold night’s chill.
So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
and covered this Marine from his toes to his head.
Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold,
with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold.
And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside.

I didn’t want to leave him so quiet in the night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure,
said "Carry on, Santa, it’s Christmas Day, all secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right,
Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.


©Copyright circa 1991 by James M. Schmidt
(As printers in the December 1991 issue of the USMC magazine, Leatherneck)

Let's Say Thanks.

An email I received gave me my thought for the day:

Give thanks for family,
Give thanks for life,
Give thanks for liberty,
Give thanks for Christ.

Little to ask for,
No one to ask from,
We want more,
But need no more.

Forgotten are the simplicity,
That kept us in sanity and unity.
Snow angels or simple cookies.
Delight of a xmas tree's beauty.

Through the seasons' rush
And all the weather's fuss,
We must stop and ponder,
Not about how much lost, we wonder,
But the priorities we still have in our lives, and yonder.

Time to reflect on priorities,
Family,
Children,
Loves of our lives,
Health,
And the preservation of Liberty.

For on this day,
A simple task we partake,
To a soldier's life we may,
Bring a smile and a tear,
To thank them and hold them dear.

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Please join us in saying thanks, go to Let's Say Thanks,
1. Pick a card
2. Xerox will mail it to a soldier.

It is free. And I am sure they will really love it.

Hat tip to Xerox.
Semper Fi!

Election 2008

Thank you for all the invitations to report from the US on Elections 2008. Thank you for accepting my declines to provide the live coverage from my humble home. This historic election is in its sense monumental to the next generations to come. My sources of information on this election and the candidates made my ability to report the news, from an unbiased view as in the past, extremely difficult. A bow of exit from the election play by play I shall take, for there are other news I shall partake.

Remember on this day to cast a ballot that you think will make the difference.
Not because a personal political affliliation, but because of the facts out there. The personality of the candidate will determine the endurance of the indotrination of promises each candidate are proposing now. A steadfast unbroken soul will continue to fight and not give up their stance. A flip flopper, well, will sell the country for a dime.

Today, the world awaits the next leader of the Free World.
Finance markets hold their breaths and pad their hedges.

Today is Election Day.

Ahhhh ...

The season has turned colder.

I can do our annual dance, as I still claim the title of First on the Block to Put up the Christmas tree.

This is a cool reminder for the past summer.

Nothing looks better than the simple colours of Red White and Blue.

Awww poor fish...

Hahaha.

Listen to mom...

Trampolines are dangerous!!

Dear Mr Paulson

The crawler on Reuters.com shows "Stocks plunge as equity fears overtake trust". I could have predicted the result of the "Yipee"-band-aid-quickie-irresponsible-wtf-backward-Emergency Economic Rescue Plan passed by the overpaid-overweight-overwined congress.

*smack, Adam Smith just slapped himself in the forehead. The god of economics would have graded all the smucks a big freaking F. Economic stimulation always begin with the consumer and brand loyalty will always succumb to price. Duh.

In simpler terms for the lawmakers who are playing jackpot/one arm bandit with our taxes, give the CONSUMERS the ability to SPEND, they will only buy what they can afford.

CONSUMERS SPENDING = MORE GOODS AND SERVICES SOLD = UPTURN IN COMMERCE.

Why extend credit to banks? Who are they lending the money to? Sheiks in the deserts who need a freaking heater? Who else needs a loan, besides the over extended families who can afford a monthly repayment of $1.00? Perhaps they can loan to the CEOs who screwed it all up in the first place with the golden parachute, who now have to pay off their penthouse in Manhattan?

Give the consumers the tax rebates of $5000.00 each, they can use that for Christmas gifts, use it as a down payment for a car, pay down the credit cards, pay some of the backed up bills.

Hello?? Duh... simple economics. Supply and demand, consumers over producers.

Dear overstuffed Congressmen, you whine and cry about your little broom closets in D.C., however your families are not starving or sacrificing.

Bring your egos down Main Street, live the consumer way, live on a minimum wage for 6 months. After which make your decisions wisely, for the people.

By then you will realize SACRIFICE, going without new clothes or shoes, when replacement is long overdue, telling the kids the latest fundraiser has to wait for another month, telling the kids not to play outside in the cold because we cannot afford to get sick, farmers fixing equipment with duct tape, etc etc.

Yes, sacrifice.

Mr Paulson, (I hope someone will bring this blog to your attention) Secretary of Treasury, you NEED to listen to the families in America, not just the American family. The American dream is slowly turning into a nightmare, filled with too many uncertainties and too many things are given up. Do not listen only to the families who are facing foreclosure, listen to the families who rent because they could not afford the house payments to begin with. Listen to those who have 3 months of bills to catch up on, while the harsh winter is imminent. Those who have to ride a broken bike because the second car was taken away for non-payment. Talk to the parents who are trying to figure out which bill NOT to pay this month, so we can afford BASIC groceries.

Mr Paulson, you need to stop and listen to the correct crowd.
You know, US the ones who are pleading and bleeding.

Watch Out For Bears

This is an apparent real warning sign, targeting city slickers.

An extreme solution to the economic problem

This thought may be extreme but it may just work.

As the day continues, the headlines regarding the economy constantly pop up on my PC interupting my daily work responsibilities.

"The Dow industrials drop 600 points in fear that the bailout vote will fail."

"Federal Reserve announces fresh steps with other central banks to battle credit crisis. "

Here is a recommendation, make all those who govern the credit and economy, accountable.

Fire all the Senators and Congressman, and lets start from a fresh slate.
Afterall these are the "officials"

*who direct the course of the economy,
*who voted on the bills,
*who watched over the transactions in their states,
*who signed off on the budgets of their states,
*who came up with ideas and advised the leaders (Democrat or Republican),
*who give themselves a raise as the first order of business.

Of course they are pointing their fingers elsewhere.
Figures, the lack of accountability.

Thanks to the Democrats

The recent headlines featuring the tainted foods stemming from China, prompted me to dig back into history and the cause for this unfortunate conflict.

Back in the days, China was known for their exotic and genuine products, regardless of how poor they were, you knew the goods were true to form. So what happened? Mostly the locals point their fingers at the corrupted officials and greed.

The world (yes world) has grown dependent on China and their cheap costs of manufacture. Prancing further into history, China was happily bestowed with Favourite Trade Nations, not once but at least twice. A trade agreement that allowed China to export unlimited goods and services to the United States, tax and tariff free. Precisely the beginnings of the addiction to low cost products, despite the bellowing of advisers in the wings screaming "NO!! DON'T DO IT" at then President William Clinton, a member of the Democratic Party.

Currently the world (yes world) has China as a crutch while we hobbled with our own ill economies, trying to figure why factories are closed and the products are manufactured overseas. We are so addicted, as cheap imports is compared meth, we don't know where to turn for alternatives.

Point to make here, check the labels, buy American made (or non-China origin), and rethink how the philosophies of the political agendas will shape the economy. Actually considering there is no hope for us, consider how politics will shape the economic environment of the next generation.

PS: With all the political turmoil and terror treats, my thoughts always raced to the Cowboy President. What will President Ronald Reagan say?

Hahaha ... Experience Counts.

The Presidential election was too close to call. Neither the Republican candidate nor the Democratic candidate had enough votes to win. There was much talk about ballot recounting, court challenges, etc., but a week-long ice fishing competition seemed the sportsman like way to
settle things. The candidate that caught the most fish at the end of
the week would win the election.

Therefore, it was decided that there should be an ice fishing contest between the two candidates to determine the winner.

After much of back and forth discussion, it was decided that the contest take place on a remote frozen lake in northern Michigan .

There were to be no observers present, and both men were to be sent out separately on this isolated lake and return at 5 P.M. with their catch for counting and verification by a team of neutral parties. At the end of the first day, John Mc. returned to the starting line and he had ten fish.
Soon, Obama returned and had no fish. Well, everyone assumed he was just having another 'bad hair' day or something and hopefully, he would catch up the next day.

At the end of the 2nd day John Mc. came in with 20 fish and Obama came in again with none. That evening, Harry Reid got together secretly with Obama and said, 'Obama, I think John Mc. is a low-life, cheatin' son-of-a-gun. I want you to go out tomorrow and don't even bother with
fishing. Just spy on him and see just how he is cheating.'

The next night. after John Mc. returns with 50 fish, Harry Reid said to Obama, 'Well, tell me, how is John Mc. cheating?'

Obama replied, 'Harry, you're not going to believe this, but he's cutting holes in the ice'.

Experience Counts

A Real Financial Bailout

Dear President Bush,

This latest attempt to revive the sluggish economy is NOT RIGHT.

Please let us know who managed to convince you that bailing out financial companies is a good idea.

Here is my proposal to stimulate the economy, issue a $5000.00 check to the taxpayer. $500 is not enough to make a difference, winter is coming and more likely we have $5000.00 in credit card bills to pay. The average grocery bill for a family of 4 is $120.00, $500 thus is a minor contribution to the pocketbook. Make sure to account for children that are in the parents households, not according to the tax claims. There are parents who care for their children or grandchildren in their households but cannot claim them on their tax returns.

Imagine what families can do with $5000.00.
*Real groceries for weeks,
*dinner out with the children,
*car payments,
*a house payment,
*fix that leaky roof,
*head to the local school fund raisers,
*go to local school games,
*visit the local small businesses,
*winter coats, etc.

After years of taxes, it is time that the taxpayers reap the benefits of their sacrifices.

It is time that the overpaid executives pay back.
It is time that the CEOs pay a price for their arrogance.
It is time that the over- privileged pay back.
It is time that the taxpayers get heard.
It is time that the middle class get a helping hand.
It is time to help the taxpayers.
It is time to bail the taxpayers.
It is time to pay the taxpayers.
It is time the taxpayers get paid.

Please please rethink the bail out.

Bail out the taxpayers, the realistic strategy to resuscitate the economy.

In case any legislators read this, please take heed from the taxpayers, the locals, the common folks, the ones who pay your salaries.

Another one For POTUS

All hail POTUS.

Read this at your own risks.


Man of valour and honour.

*salute.

8/15/2008 - EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- I learned
a big lesson on service Aug. 4, 2008, when Eielson had the rare honor of hosting
President Bush on a refueling stop as he traveled to Asia. It was an event
Eielson will never forget -- a hangar full of Airmen and Soldiers getting to see
the Commander in Chief up close, and perhaps even shaking his hand. An
incredible amount of effort goes into presidential travel because of all of the
logistics, security, protocol, etc ... so it was remarkable to see Air Force One
land at Eielson on time at precisely 4:30 p.m.--however, when he left less than
two hours later, the President was 15 minutes behind schedule.

Read the rest at:

http://www.eielson.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123111092




*how many of you googled/searched POTUS?

You are old when ...

Just a quick quote (still in the office).

Yes I said this,

"You know you are old, when your neck hurts when you try to head bang to an 80s tune."

*ouch, still holding my neck.

September 11, 2008

At approximately 9:30am, the speakers on my computer suddenly announced, "Vincent Gerard Halloran". I clasped my hands together and raised them to the ceiling. Silently I said a prayer, quietly I wiped my tears. My children's cousin's uncle, Thank you, Rest.

What does 9/11 mean to me?

.That day changed the world. The innocent politics I grew up analyzing, has been corrupted by senseless loss of lives.

9/11 means that the next generation just started fighting for their freedom to live.
Their FREEDOM TO LIVE. (imagine that, the basic human right to survive has been violated)

9/11 means we who live in the free world, have been arrogant to think of ourselves as all mighty and untouchable.

9/11 means I have to be COURAGEOUS, HONOURABLE, AND worth VALOUR.

9/11 means my children have to learn COURAGE, HONOUR, AND VALOUR.

9/11 means we have to learn to relive on our streets.

9/11 means to me, the world just rebuilt borders around each other.

9/11 means I have to be strong and teach my children SACRIFICE.

9/11 means I am suspicious of past college-mates that were from the Middle East, named Ahmed Ahmed bin Ahmed. (that was the name he used)

9/11 means my beloved New York City was trespassed upon and violated.

9/11 means I have been sitting around too long and it is time to speak up and help others.

9/11 means I have a new guide to life, President George W Bush's address to the nation before a Joint Session of Congress on September 20, 2001.

9/11 means that I am afraid to travel home, due to additional scrutiny at security checkpoints.

9/11 means anger, sadness, tears, revenge and retribution to Al-Qaeda. Allah will punish them for taking his name in vain. (pushdi)

This Mama can definitely crush Obama

Wow!! Maverick McCain definitely threw the monkey wrench into Obama's trip to the white house.

After all, she did not use mud or sludge as her opponents do. Palin, instead used the suave approach of a mommy and shrewd political experience to prove her worth. AND SHE DID.

To all eligible voters out there, you get the privilege to seat the First Woman Vice-President of the United States. Regardless if you support her or not, being able to vote is really a PRIVILEGE.

There are plenty of law abiding taxpayers out there who do not have this chance and there are many who would do anything for the opportunity to cast the vote.

The ballot is narrowed to the First Black President or the First Woman Vice President.

Your opinions may may agree with me, but the chance of your lifetime lies before you. This election not only transforms your life, but the future of the next generation. My children's futures lie in the outcome of Election 2008. Their education and security unfortunately lies feebly in the poll totals. Make your vote count and affect the next generation.

Don't like what I say, make a difference at the polls, at least you can.

Motorcycle Mama

Hillary is BroomHilda.
McCain is Maverick.

According to the boys in camo, Palin is Motorcycle Mama.

At least Uncle Jimbo really likes her, kudos for his prediction since June 2008!! Read here.

What else have we dug up on her?? Well if you can award pins for what she can do, she definitely beats bin Biden.

She actually commands the defence system that faces Russia, after all Alaska faces the Brutus led by Sputin Putin.

According to Uncle Jimbo/Tom W.:

"As governor of Alaska, Palin is briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counter terrorism. Her exposure to classified material may rival even Biden's.
She's also the commander in chief of the Alaska State Defense Force (ASDF), a federally recognized militia incorporated into Homeland Security's counter terrorism plans.
Palin is privy to military and intelligence secrets that are vital to the entire country's defense. Given Alaska's proximity to Russia, she may have security clearances we don't even know about.
According to the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets.
She can be entrusted with our national security, because she already is. "

She is also easiest the eyes. The votes for the pro-life/anti-abortion may have swayed to Maverick's side, after all, to have a child over 40 years old usually include a mandatory amniocentesis. Palin surely had known about her child's condition and chose life.

Did Maverick make a hasty choice or the winning choice. We have 3 months to find out.

A maverick move

Maverick McCain surprised the political bookies with his choice for running mate.

A hockey mom from a far out land of Alaska. (Alaska is part of the USA by the way)

So we through into the political chase the gender, race, age, and newest addition, political experience.

Things that make you go HMMMMMMM.

Some one else is reading my mind.

As I was compiling my stupid list, this came over my emails:




Some people have toooo much time on their hands.

More ideal Candidates

As the day wanders on...

16. Monica Lewinski. (presidential approved)
17. Fidel Castro
18. Yo Yo Ma (the race for more boring got exciting)
19. Achmed the terrorist (go ahead blame the puppet, he may blow up again)
20. The faithful dog in the Bush Beans commercial

Let Imagination Roll

Anguished at the wait for Obama to announce his running mate, my imagination takes a stroll down mischievous lane.

These are the possible and funny running mates:
1. Jesse Jackson (funny, he is handy in the event of hostage situations at a local line to the bathroom)
2. Louis Farrakhan (opposite taste in wardrobe, why not!)
3. Whoopi Goldberg (just because she is funny, it is Barack and WHOOPI!)
4. Ted Nugent (opposites attract?)
5. John Kerry (to woo the flip floppers)
6. Ted Kennedy (to woo the errr .... whisky drinkers)
7. Barney (just for the younger voters)
8. The Red head from Wendys (Ronald MacDonald asked too much)
9. Michael Moore (There goes the neighbourhood)
10. Steven Spielberg and George Lucas (We can manipulate our own future!!)
11. Paris Hilton (to get more publicity shots)
12. Nicole Richie (in case Paris Hilton dont understand English)
13. Smokey the Bear (smokey something)
14. George Herbert Walker Bush (whao! That will be something to behold)
15. Ross Perot (both have big ears)
16.Tom Cruise (hmmm .... Scientology and whatever religion)
17. Rosie O'Donnell (what kind of tv coverage will that be?)
18. A Borg (everyone will be assimilated)


Please note that Obama did not endorse any of these announcements. So go complain to someone else who cares.

Dear IOC, you failed.

Dear IOC,

Congratulations on your failure to uphold the ethics of Olympic Games.
Congratulations on the message of bad sportsmanship to the next generation of athletes. Hard work and dedication means nothing as the bias judges dice and slice your life away.

Thank you for disappointing the youth for their clean efforts vanquished before their eyes due to political agendas of grownups.

Many kudos to you as the mothers and fathers, who have encouraged their children at all the sports meets to do their best, are angrily shouting and crying for the kids. Why bother to try so hard any more?

Obvious to the billions of spectators that American Men and Women Gymnastics Team outperformed their Chinese contemporaries. The scores betrayed the audiences, sending a huge nuclear mushroom cloud signal, announcing that the red flag on the chests of the athletes determine the standings.

Well, dear IOC, think about how you failed those kids who worked hard to preserve the Olympic dream.

.... more to come.

Tired

Yes I am still here.

These late nights are taking a toll on me.
The change in schedule due to change in employment is still in the adjusting session.

A main culprit for the 2 am bed time is none other than (*music in background) ...

THE OLYMPICS

Yes I need to redeem my claim as the leader in useless Olympic Trivia.

Too bad Ian Thorpe retired, he will give Michael Phelps a swim for his money.
My message to the Men's Gymnastics Team, FANTASTIC JOB!!!

Regardless of the bias panel of judges, you boys won the world. Each time you mounted on an apparatus, you ruled the world for the next few minutes. Excellent execution of techniques and you boys rule!

To the officials, you suck! You stink as officials when you make bias decisions.

Most of all I can still claim myself as Goddess of Useless Olympic Knowledge. (I took the quiz on yahoo and scored very well)!

Muahahaha! I have not used up my brain quota for 10%. Maybe 3%.

more griping to come....

Modern convenience

A short list of modern convenience that I am grateful to use:

1. Minced garlic in a jar.
* I am not a traditionalist, thus I do get alot of laughs on this issue in my kitchen.
2. Minced ginger in a jar.
* see comment above.
3. Laksa paste in a jar.
* nothing like a good bowl of home, without searching for "exotic" ingredients in Ohio.
4. Tomato sauce in a can.
* really, the home canning business is not for me.
5. Cruise control.
* ahhhh ... finally I can rest my lead foot.
6. Emails.
* I can pretend to listen despite the DELETE option.
7. All the news I can read.
* what else am I supposed to do when everyone else at home is playing their games.
8. Remote car starter.
* best $99 investment I spent on my car.
9. Automatic air freshener.
* best $5 investment I spent on my bathroom.